Decades of Horror | Horror News Radio

Feature Review: Abattoir (2016)

Fan favorite director Darren Lynn Bousman (Repo! The Genetic Opera, Saw II, Saw III, Saw IV) returns with Abattoir where he takes a unique stab at the haunted house genre. Bousman enlists a terrific cast including Jessica Lowndes, Joe Anderson, Lin Shaye, Dayton Callie, Michael Pare, and Bryan Batt. Callie is especially terrific as Jebediah Crone, a mysterious man who buys houses - houses that are reportedly haunted - and rips out the rooms where the haunting originates. What he ends up doing with those rooms is quite extraordinary.

Special Feature: The Worst Horror Films of 2016

While 2016 was a crappy year in general, it was a fairly decent year for Horror Films. They struck gold at the box office and some true gems went straight to VOD. The Grue-crew will be getting to the best horror films in a few weeks, for tonight, their heading down the lonesome road to The Worst Horror Films of 2016. Dave Dreher, The Black Saint, Thomas Mariani, and Doc Rotten each provide their top 10 (or is that their bottom 10?). One film made it onto each list, Yoga Hosers, while Rob Zombie's 31, Cell, and Shin Godzilla made it on three. Here they are in all their...glory.

Dave Dreher
- 10) Shin Godzilla
- 09) Phantasm Ravager
- 08) Viral
- 07) Zoombies
- 06) Rob Zombie's 31
- 05) Yoga Hosers
- 04) Hardcore Henry
- 03) Jeruzalem
- 02) Cell
- 01) Bite
Santos Ellin, Jr. (The Black Saint)
- 10) Terror Toons 3
- 09) Cell
- 08) Baskin
- 07) Viral
- 06) Phantasm: Ravager
- 05) The Greasy Strangler
- 04) Blair Witch
- 03) Incarnate
- 02) Yoga Hosers
- 01) The Darkness
Thomas Mariani
- 10) Zoombies
- 09) Shin Godzilla
- 08) Jeruzalem
- 07) The Disappointments Room
- 06) Pride + Prejudice + Zombies
- 05) Martyrs
- 04) Rob Zombie's 31
- 03) Night of Something Strange
- 02) Tyler Perry's Boo! A Madea Halloween
- 01) Yoga Hosers
Doc Rotten
- 10) Incarnate
- 09) The Veil
- 08) Rob Zombie's 31
- 07) Shin Godzilla
- 06) Satanic
- 05) Shelley
- 04) Yoga Hosers
- 03) Getting Schooled
- 02) Ghost Team
- 01) Cell

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:38]: Intro
- [00:02:33]: Walker Stalker
- [00:03:08]: Gruesome Magazine 2017!
[00:04:07]: Horror News of the Week
- [00:04:23]: Deadpool & Genre Golden Globe Nominations
- [00:09:08]: War for the Planet of the Apes Trailer
- [00:13:16]: Man-Thing by RL Stine
- [00:16:32]: James Franco in Alien: Covenant
- [00:19:58]: Spider-Man: Homecoming Trailer
[00:29:36]: Support HNR
[00:30:13]: Featire Review: Abattoir
[00:54:03]: Special Feature: Worst Horror Films Of The Year 2016
- [00:56:30]: Dave's List
- [01:01:29]: Santos' List
- [01:11:04]: Thomas' List
- [01:26:22]: Doc's List
- [01:43:13]: Dishonorable Mentions
[01:48:36]: Stump The Saint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Deranged (1974) - Episode 43 - Decades of Horror 1970s 0

Dec 13, 2016

"Pretty Sally Mae died a very unnatural death! ... But the worst hasn't happened to her yet! DERANGED ... confessions of a necrophile." - The tag line Jeff Gillen and Alan Ormsby's Deranged: Confessions of a Necrophile (1974) is Seventies Drive-In Exploitation at its best. The film, starring Roberts Blossom, is based upon the life of serial killer Ed Gein, considered the most accurate portrayal of his story until Ed Gein released in 2000 The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s. Joining the grue-crew is Gruesome Magazine contributor Jeff Mohr.

Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 43 – Deranged (1974)

One of the great things about Decades of Horror 1970s is coming across films not seen in a very long time - or, like Deranged: Confessions of a Necrophile, seen for the very first time. While The Black Saint is a long time fan of the film - fighting for it to be covered on the podcast since the show started, Doc Rotten and guest-host Jeff Mohr are watching the film with a fresh set of eyes each some 42 years after its initial release. Deranged is produced (albeit uncredited) by Bob Clark (Children Shouldn't Play With Dead Things, Dead of Night, Black Christmas) written by Alan Ormsby and co-directed by Jeff Gillen. Roberts Blossom stars as Ezra Cobb, modeled after Ed Gein. Blossom may be recognized from his later roles in Christine (George LeBay) and Home Alone (Old Man Marley). Santos gets to share his love for the film and finds Doc and Jeff equally impressed by the low budget shocker.

The story follows Ezra Cobb after his mother passes away. Lost without her, he resorts to digger her up nearly a years after her death. Studying taxidermy, he hatches a plan to restore her and begins robbing graves for "materials." Before long he sets his sights on fresher materials and the body count rises - as his madness grows. Blossom's performance drives the film but the effects - from first time effects artist Tom Savini - display in gruesome detail. One particular scene, long cut from the film restored in recent years, has Cobb peeling back the scalp of one victim so he can scoop out her brains. Later when his affection for a young waitress turns violent, the audience is treated to a dinner scene reminiscent of a later 1974 classic The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The film is made for fans of Seventies drive-in horror films. Catch it if you can.

Download this Episode

Incarnate - Westworld Season 1 - Episode 192 - Horror News Radio 0

Dec 8, 2016

Crawling into theaters this past weekend, the latest horror film from Blumhouse fails to make a dent in the box office. The possession fueled "exorcise" in futility, INCARNATE, features a decent cast -- Aaron Eckhart, David Mazouz (Gotham), Emjay Anthony (Krampus), Catalina Sandino Moreno -- and is directed by Brad Peyton. The film starts off with an interesting idea of "evicting" demons from the minds of their hosts instead of exorcising them. Interesting. But it takes more than that to impress the Grue-crew.

A far more impressive endeavor comes from HBO in the form of the WESTWORLD which wrapped its first season. Taking the conventions proposed in the 1973 film and the novel from Michael Crichton, show creators Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy expand on the themes and implication in spectacular fashion. The cast is amazing and the twists and turns are sensational and surprising. Thandie Newton and Jeffrey Wright provide award worthy, gripping performances that outstage the likes of Anthony Hopkins and Ed Harris - each of whom are more invested here than in recent roles. Thomas and Doc share their thoughts on the season and all the shocking developments.

Doc guides the Horror News of the Week with sad news of the passing of Don Calfa who played Ernie in Return of the Living Dead. The crew also discuss trailers, trailers and more trailers from The Mummy to Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2. And Doc is set to visit the Walker Stalker Charlotte convention December 17 & 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Horror News Radio
Episode 192 – Incarnate (2016) – Westworld (2016)
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: Incarnate (2016)

Typically a champion of the films from Blumhouse, even Doc has trouble praising and recommended the uninspiring mess that is INCARNATE. At the core, the film from director Brad Payton, has a fascinating concept but the story from Ronnie Christensen struggles to do much interesting with the plot. Aaron Eckhart blunders through the film with a performance that suggest he may hope that the audience thinks it is actually Thomas Jane in the role, forgetting that he himself is involved at all. The age difference of the young stars, David Mazouz amd Emjay Anthony, from their recent roles in Gotham and Krampus expose that the film has been sitting on a shelf somewhere. The Grue-crew suggest you may hear about this film again next week when they recount their worst horror films of 2016. Uh, oh.

What Have You Been Watching: Westworld Season 1 (2016)

HBO proves that some material can be improved upon. Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy mold the concepts from the Westworld film into a cerebral and visceral exercise in excitement and ingenuity. WESTWORLD explore the weighty theme of creation and consciousness as the hosts struggle to understand their own purpose in the world around them. What is real, what is imagined. What is freedom and what is spirit. What is the definition of "alive." Jeffrey Wright stars as Benard a programmer in charge of managing the "mental" state of the hosts of the park known as Westworld. A park where guests interact with lifelike robots with unique AI and participate in complicated storylines full of sex, murder and mayhem. Thandie Newton is Maeve, a host who becomes self aware and begins a quest to escape the park. Anthony Hopkins comes to life as Robert Ford, the man behind the park, the man who creates the stories, creates the hosts, and pulls all the strings. Ed Harris is the "man in black" looking for the maze, hoping to learn the secrets of Westworld. Doc and Thomas heap a mountain of praise on the show, looking forward to season two.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:39] Intro
- [00:02:33] Decades of Horror Podcast Family
- [00:06:32] Walker Stalker
[00:07:34] Horror News of the Week
- [00:07:39] RIP Don Calfa and Alice Drummond
- [00:11:51] The Belko Experiment Trailer
- [00:15:40] Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 Trailer
- [00:19:22] The Mummy Trailer
- [00:26:45] Last of Us II Trailer
- [00:31:27] Death Stranding Trailer
- [00:34:57] Resident Evil 7
[00:38:32] Support HNR
[00:39:23] Horror Pack
[00:41:12] Feature Review: Incarnate
[01:12:28] What Have You Been Watching: Westworld Season 1
[01:44:04] Stump The Saint
[01:50:15] Listener Feedback

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

Abattior and The Worst Horror Films of 2016

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Night of Something Strange - SiREN - Episode 191 - Horror News Radio 0

Dec 1, 2016

Gross. Disgusting. Sick. Demented. And quite possibly the best horror comedy of the year. Well, at least for most of the Grue-crew. This week HNR covers the film festival favorite - awarded best horror film at the New York City Horror Film in 2016 - NIGHT OF SOMETHING STRANGE. The cast and crew behind this hilarious abomination deserve props for pushing the envelopes as far as possible and getting the most out of their budget. The film is stuffed full of practical effects and gallons of blood...and other unmentionable liquids. Joining the crew to discuss the film is award winning film maker Christopher G. Moore.

Jumping from the found footage short including in the first V/H/S film to a full length feature film, SiREN lands on Chiller in December 2016. Gregg Bishop takes over the directing reins featuring a new set of characters encountering the Lily character from "Amateur Night." This time, however, she is a captured beast of the mysterious Mr. Nix. When she is set free all hell breaks loose. Of course, Doc loves the film while the rest of the crew consider it rather...meh. Catch it on Chiller soon and decide for yourself.

Dave guides the Horror News of the Week with sad news of the passing of Fritz Weaver, Ron Glass, and Florence Henderson. The team behind Horror Pack provides their support and a chance to take a complimentary Horror Pack home. And Doc is set to visit the Walker Stalker Charlotte convention December 17 & 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Feature Review: Night of Something Strange (2016)

Movies don't get much more disgusting and deranges as Night of Something Strange from director Jonathan Straiton and his cast and crew. The film is truly the "WTF" movie of the year. Just when you think you've seen the worst, it tops itself with something even more...shocking. The Grue-crew debate the comedy, some describing it as the best of the year, while others pledging they'll put it on their worst of the year list. Christopher G. Moore joins the show to chime in with his thoughts on the film as well.

What Have You Been Watching: SiREN (2016)

Many of the Grue-crew enjoyed the V/H/S films quite a bit - for what they were. With the announcement of taking one of the shorts and stretching it out to be a feature film, the Grue-crew are a bit trepedacious about how successful the results may be. The first short to be turned into a film is SiREN, inspired by the short "Amateur Night" from the first anthology film. Expanding on the concept of the succubus demon, SiREN introduces a slew of new characters and contains whispers of originality and promise. How successful it is on delivering on that promise is much of the conversation tonight.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:39]: Intro
[00:04:45] Announcements
- [00:04:55]: Walker Stalker Charlotte
[00:06:39]: Horror News of the Week
- [00:07:16]: RIP Fritz Weaver, Florence Henderson and Ron Glass
- [00:11:35]: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story gets a new teaser, advance tickets trip up Fandango
- [00:20:26]: Official one sheet for Alien: Covenant released
- [00:25:44]: Ann Rice regains rights to The Vampire Chronicles - taking Lestat to TV
- [00:29:11]: Apple Presents: Frankie's Holiday
[00:30:42]: Support HNR on Patreon
[00:31:41]: Horror Pack Presents...
[00:33:30]: Feature Review: Night of Something Strange
[01:24:48]: What Have You Been Watching: SiREN
[01:53:38]: StumpTheSaint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

Incarnate and Westworld Season 1 Finale

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Godzilla vs SpaceGodzilla (1994) – Episode 4 – Decades of Horror 1990s 0

Nov 30, 2016

"Don't try to stop me or you'll taste Yuki's medicine yourself." The King of the Monsters fights himself... or at least an intergalactic version of himself. Throw in some telekinetic powers, the Yakuza and a cinnabon version of Godzilla Junior & you've got the odd mess that is Godzilla vs SpaceGodzilla. Only Thomas Mariani can decipher the method behind the madness, with a little bit of help.

Decades of Horror 1990s
Episode 04 – Godzilla vs Spacegodzilla (1994)

Just before America put their measly mits on Godzilla, Toho wanted to keep the brand alive. How that could be possible with a film as convoluted and oddball as Godzilla vs SpaceGodzilla is anyone's guess. Made by filmmakers more familiar with teen idol films, there's a weird glossy sheen to this Godzilla film that doesn't feel traditional. As our favorite giant lizards stomps around trying to help his son, a mutated clone made with crystals and cells of former big bad Biolante causes havoc. Meanwhile, Miki keeps getting visions of the Mothra twins and winds up in the clutches of the Yakuza trying to steal her powers. It's all pretty confusing.

So who could possibly help Thomas through this puzzling monster mash? His lizard buddy Sam Brutuxan, of course! Sam, a lifelong Godzilla fan, chose this entry in particular to discuss. Mainly to hear Thomas squirm in confusion, but also to defend this oddball mark in the history of the giant lizard. He talks shop about the monster battles, the underrated design of SpaceGodzilla and his preference for insanity over dour with his kaiju films. To hear more about Sam Brutuxan, follow him on Twitter @Brutuxan.

Download this Episode

The Howling (1981) Episode 97 - Decades of Horror 1980s 0

Nov 29, 2016

"You can't tame what's meant to be wild, Doc. It just ain't natural." - John Carradine sets the cast straight with his witty and biting dialog provided by writer John Sayles for Joe Dante's horror classic The Howling. Yes, the "other" werewolf film from 1981 - a bit unfair comparison, certainly, because this film truly stands on its own. Rob Bottin brings his own unique approach to the transformation scene rivaling all other wolf-man films. Let the fun begin! Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s.

Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 97 – The Howling (1981)

The Howling is the first to give us a memorable bipedal wolf-man that looks more wolf-like than human thanks to the talents of Rob Bottin and his team. While most films previously would go for the Larry Talbot variety and An American Werewolf In London would favor the beast on all fours approach, Eddie Quist and friends would stand tall over the less furry cast, with a mouth full of fangs, a body full of fur and ears a foot tall at least. The year 1981 is a monumental year for werewolf films, revolutionizing the sub-genre transforming it as extreme as the men would into wolf. Joe Dante brings his signature satiric look with the film, but, admittedly, not as much as some of his later films would do. The cast is phenomenal featuring Dee Wallace and Christopher Stone in the leading roles with Carradine joined by Dennis Dugan , Belinda Balaski , Patrick Macnee , Kevin McCarthy , Slim Pickens , Elisabeth Brooks, Robert Picardo in supporting roles. Honestly, if you desire werewolves in your werewolf film, look no further than The Howling.

Doc, Christopher and Thomas take a look into the cast and crew behind The Howling, sharing their first viewing of the film and their favorite & most memorable scenes. The dive into the career of Joe Dante and share love for the inevitable cameo from Dick Miller - perhaps this being one of his best. They share some interesting facts and tidbits about the making of the film such as Robert Picardo improvising the line "I want to give you a piece of my mind" before pulling out a bullet from his head. The appreciation of the film is strong but not without a few critical comments about the film. In the end, The Howling remains a remarkable film and accomplishment with its solid direction and terrific practical effects, holding up today just as well as it did when it premiered 35 years ago.

We want to hear from you - the coolest, most gruesome fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at thomasmariani@decadesofhorror.com or docrotten@decadesofhorror.com. We also want to be sure to thank Neon Devils for their killer track "Bone Chillin'" which we use for the intro and outro of this show.

Download this Episode

The Monster (2016) - Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016) - Episode 190 - Horror News Radio 0

Nov 23, 2016

Not long ago, The Black Saint enthusiastically recommended Bryan Bertino's latest horror film, THE MONSTER. Catching the Grue-crew's attention, Santo's sanction became HNR's schedule. And the world is better for it. The movie, featuring Zoe Kazan and Ella Ballentine in the lead roles, deserves a theatrical release denied it as the film is available on DirectTV and on VOD with a quick release to DVD and Blu-ray. While the film is economic in scope, it is grand in its characterizations and emotional impact. And it also just happens to have a terrific monster. Recommended.

The weekend box office was dominated by the return of the Harry Potter universe to cinemas with FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM, bringing in a cool $75M in the States alone. Add in the world box and, whew, amazing. Author J.K. Rowlingtakes the writing reins handling the screenplay for the first time with terrific - but familiar - results. David Yates lends his considerable directorial skill to the thrills once again. The large cast, lead by Eddie Redmayne, is fantastic, but it may be two supporting characters that steal the film - along with all the beasts!

Dave guides the Horror News of the Week with news of Kong: Skull Island, Channel Zero Season 2 and The Last of Us. The team behind Horror Pack provides their support and a chance to take a complimentary Horror Pack home. And Doc is set to visit the Walker Stalker Charlotte convention December 17 & 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Horror News Radio
Episode 190 – The Monster (2016) – Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: The Monster (2016)

At the core of The Monster from director Bryan Bertino is the dysfunctional relationship between the lead characters. Zoe Kazan stars as Kathy, a mother who struggles with addiction and motherhood, facing loosing the only she loves in life, whether she wants to admit it or not. Ella Ballentine stars as Kathy's daughter Lizzy who finds herself trapped in a world she cannot escape, alternating between loving and hating the woman she often calls "mom". On a long trip to return Lizzy to her father, Kathy resigns to the fact she may never see her daughter again. Then, an animal darts in front of their car on a lonely stretch of road. Stranded and alone, Kathy and Lizzy must depend on each other to survive the night. The Monster is a must-see horror film of 2016, one that Santos promises will be at the top of his year-end list of favorites.

What Have You Been Watching: The Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)

For Harry Potter fans, hearing of another excursion into the world of wizards and magic is a thrilling proposition. Add that the return is personally guided by J.K. Rowling as she writes the script herself and the film is directed by David Yates who helmed the last 4 Harry Potter films, the promise is near giddy. But, for those, who are outside that - rather large - bubble, does the film hold any intrigue or attraction? The successful box office suggests a healthy "yes". Eddie Redmayne stars a Newt Scamander, a wizard traveling to the US from Great Britain with a suit case full of fantastic beasts. He quickly runs into troubles, many of his own making. He turns to an unlikely trio of Americans to assist in re-capturing the creatures mistakenly set loose on 1020s New York City. Katherine Waterston stars opposite as Porpentina Goldstein while Dan Folger and Alison Sudol steal the film as Jacob, a muggle called no-mag here, and Tina's sister Queenie. Thomas and Doc marvel at much of the film but expose many of the film's flaws and failings. And, they dive into spoilers as well. Good times!

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:38] Introduction of the Grue-crew
[00:03:40] Announcements
- [00:03:48] Walker Stalker Charlotte
[00:05:05] Horror News of the Week
- [00:05:22] The trailer for Kong: Skull Island exceeded expectations
- [00:11:18] SyFy's Channel Zero teases season two focusing on No End House
- [00:14:42] M. Night Shyamalan reveals his Tales from the Crypt series will stick close to the comics
- [00:17:44] Sam Raimi sadly announces that The Last of Us adaptation is in development hell
- [00:22:05] Will Doctor Tongue be the final tribute for The Walking Dead season 7
[00:26:37] Support HNR on Patreon
[00:28:13] Horror Pack
[00:29:42] Feature Review: The Monster
[01:01:39] What Have You Been Watching: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
[01:40:24] Stump the Saint
[01:45:56]: Listener Feedback/Happy Thanksgiving

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

SiREN and Night of Something Strange

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Carrie (1976) - Episode 42 - Decades of Horror 1970s 0

Nov 23, 2016

"They're all going to laugh at you! They're all going to laugh at you!" - Margaret White's desperate pleading rings in her daughter's mind as she is consumed with rage after she is bathed in pig's blood at her senior prom in Brian De Palma's horror classic CARRIE (1976). It's the moment horror fans in the 1970s will never forget, when Carrie White wipes out most of the student body during the conclusion of the adaptation of Stephen King's first novel. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s. Joining the grue-crew for Carrie are award winning director Christopher G. Moore and Gruesome Magazine contributor Jeff Mohr.

Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 42 – Carrie (1976)

Watching CARRIE now 40 years after it debuted on theater screens across the US, the film continues to astonish, frighten, and impress with its terrific cast, its terrifying story and its fantastic direction and score. The film hits home with teen anguish of being accepted in high school, fears of the unknown, and the lasting effects of guilt and rage. Carrie stars two fantastic actresses as Carrie White and her mother Margaret, both of whom were nominated for Oscars for their roles in the film. Sissy Specek leads the film as Carrie while Piper Laurie returns from a 15 year hiatus to star as her mother. Betty Buckley stars as Carrie's gym teacher, sensitive to Carrie's plight. Amy Irving, Nancy Allan, and P.J. Soles are cast as her school mates who tease and torment her. William Katt is Tommy Ross who catches Carrie's eye. And John Travolta is...well...Vinnie Barbarino. Dwerp. Brian De Palma brings every trick he knows to the film from split screens during the prom scene to Split Diopter during many important glimpses of Carrie's position in the story to a number of camera tricks lifted directly out of Alfred Hitchcock's cinematic arsenal. Along with the fantastic score from Pino Donaggio, Carrie is a classic that stands today just as well as it did back in 1976.

Guest host Christopher G. Moore is a self professed De Palma fan, despite his unfavorable opinion of Phantom of the Paradise, proclaiming Carrie as one of his very favorite films, horror or otherwise. Jeff Mohr chimes in with fond memories of the film, including the finale that gets the grue-crew remembering the impact and reactions of Carrie's final moments. Together with Doc and Santos, they even wager that Carrie is the best Stephen King adaptation even though it was the very first one. But it is the performances of Sissy Specek and Piper Laurie that truly anchor the film. Carrie's tragic character arc and Margaret's ill-fated antagonist make the film resonate to this day. The film is iconic, frightening and relevant - a must see, a genuine horror classic.

Download this Episode

My Roanoke Nightmare Chapter 10 - Episode 10 - The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: Roanoke 0

Nov 20, 2016

For the final chapter of season six, American Horror Story focuses on the "final girl" Lee Harris played by Adina Porter. Expanding on its "found footage" themes, the show segments out the story with a Paleyfest reunion, a court room documentary, a Lana Winters interview show, and a ghosthunters rip off called Spirit Chasers. All this before Lee Harris faces her ultimate sacrifice. Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore, Dave Dreher and Derek Tatum recap and review the latest episode of American Horror Story: Roanoke with Chapter Ten. The season wraps with "Chapter 10" - find out how well it concluded on this episode.

Welcome to The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare. This the unofficial podcast about the hit FX Horror Television show American Horror Story by fans for fans as brought to you by HorrorNewsTV.com, DocRotten.com, and GruesomeMagazine.com. Now in its seventh highly anticipated season, the award-winning genre show is set to push even more boundaries and break even more unimaginable fears and horror with a found-footage inspired nightmare. Returning to co-host the fan podcast is Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore and Dave Dreher. For this season, the role of co-host Thomas Mariani will be played by Derek Tatum.

The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare
Season 6 Episode 10 – "Chapter Ten"

With "Chapter 10" season six of American Horror Story comes to an end. This season, the show thinks outside its own box bringing a different format to the season, following a cast of characters that string together a single, focused narrative. It begins with "My Roanoke Nightmare" telling the story of Matt and Shelby Miller who purchase a home with a horrific history. Their story is told in flashbacks with another cast recreating their experiences. For the second section, AHS goes full on found footage as the producers of "My Roanoke Nightmare" bring back the cast to return to the property for "Return to Roanoke: Three Day in Hell" where all hell breaks loose. With the final chapter, the show throws a whirlwind of TV style shows at its audience as Lee Harris ends the show. The show is more focused than prior seasons and has fun establishing a whole new crop of monsters and villainy. How can you forget The Butcher, The Piggy Man, the Chens, the Nurses, Edward Mott and the Polks. Horror abound.

For the final episode of covering season six, Christopher, Dave, Derek, and Doc recap the final episode where not everyone is a fan of every segment but end up enjoying the final show regardless. Even with some whispers of it being anti-climatic, the Grue-crew favor a number of the events in the show with the Spirit Chasers winning the most favor. And how great was it to see Lana Winters from season two once again bringing her back to AHS in a natural manner that makes perfect sense. AHS is firing on all cylinders. Before this episode is over, the Grue-crew also dive into their expectations, hopes, and guesses at what season 7 may hold.

Download this Episode

Arrival (2016) - Episode 189 - Horror News Radio 0

Nov 19, 2016

As Halloween 2016 sets sail, the Grue-crew turn to a thinking man's Sci-fi mindbender for this week's episode of HNR. Acclaimed director Denis Villleneuve brings his film ARRIVAL into theaters this weekend with a thoughtful look at aliens landing on Earth with a little time-traveling mumbo-jumbo for good measure. Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner and Forest Whitaker lead the cast Meanwhile Thomas and Santos share their impression of Netflix's BLACK MIRROR Season 3. Six episodes of some of the best sci-fi/horror television this side of The Twilight Zone.

Dave returns to guide the Horror News of the Week with casting news for Nosferatu, The Slenderman and...Doctor Stranger Things? The Black Saint reports on the New York City Horror Film Festival extravaganza which ran November 10-13, 2016. And Doc is set to visit the Walker Stalker Charlotte convention December 17 & 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Horror News Radio
Episode 189 – Arrival (2016) – Black Mirror: Season 3
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: Arrival (2016)

An alien invasion film far closer to Contact or Close Encounters of the Third Kind than Independence Day, Arrival (2016) from Denis Villeneuve takes an intelligent look at what it may take to communicate with a species not of this Earth. Twelve alien space craft land across the globe and the US turns to Amy Adams to interpret their language. But they are in for more than first meets the eye as the creatures reveal their "weapon" to the world. Dave, Doc and Thomas reflect on the themes and the cinematography of the film while debating whether the "time travel" aspect of the script hamper or propel the overall story. The world may never know.

What Have You Been Watching: Black Mirror Season 3 (2016)

Making its way from London, England to Netflix, USA, Charlie Brooker's Black Mirror continues with season 3. Expanding the typical season from 3 episodes to 6, the third go around features directors such as Joe Wright (Nose Dive), Dan Trachtenberg (Playtest), James Watkins (Shut Up and Dance), Owen Harris (San Junipero), Jakob Verbruggen (Men Against Fire), and James Hawes (Hated in the Nation). The Black Saint and Thomas Mariani provide thier review of each episode and rank the results.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:39] Introduction of the Grue-crew
[00:03:40] Announcements
- [00:03:50] Walker Stalker Charlotte
[00:07:20] Horror News of the Week
- [00:07:49] Christopher G. Moore, director of Knob Goblins, goes viral as Doctor Stranger Things
- [00:11:11] HBO tackles The Slenderman - the creepy trailer debuts
- [00:16:00] Robert Eggers, the director of The Witch, confirms his next project - Nosferatu
- [00:18:58] Verese Sarabande set to release a 12 CD limited set of classic horror film scores with Little Box of Horrors
- [00:23:45] The new Kong: Skull Island trailer is set to drop, the Grue-crew speculate
[00:32:04] Support HNR on Patreon
[00:33:11] Horror Pack
[00:33:45] Feature Review: Arrival
[00:33:45] What Have You Been Watching: Black Mirror Season 3
[01:47:19] Film Festival Report: New York City Horror Film Festival 2016
[01:48:28] Stump the Saint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

The Monster and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

The Frighteners (1996) – Episode 3 – Decades of Horror 1990s 0

Nov 17, 2016

"When a man's jawbone drops off it's time to reassess the situation," a declaration from Judge (John Astin) that says it all. No, you're not the only one seeing ghosts and haunted houses in your small town. So is Thomas Mariani as he brings you another trip into the horror filled decade that is the 1990s.

Decades of Horror 1990s
Episode 03 – The Frighteners (1996)

Right at the crossroads between his low budget splatstick films and his massive budgets epics, director Peter Jackson gave us the perfect crossover of aesthetics with The Frighteners. While not a hit at the time, the film gave Peter Jackson his chance to adapt The Lord of the Rings. Sure, this couldn't be more different from the story of Hobbits trying to stop evil, but The Frighteners showed off the technical gumption that would be necessary for tackling Middle Earth. The story of Frank Bannister (Michael J. Fox), a private investigator who can communicate with ghosts, trying to stop a mysterious string of murders that might be supernatural is one filled with equal parts horror and comedy. Bannister and his ghost pals - including former gangster Cyrus (Chi McBride) and Judge (John Astin) - try to con people into paranormal investigation jobs, but can they truly fight against mortal enemies like Milton Dammers (Jeffrey Combs) or the ghostly Reaper?

Joining Thomas to discuss all the laughs and frights is another new voice outside of The Grue Crew for everyone to hear. His name is Jordan Worth Cobb, a filmmaker and writer who loves Jackson's odd take on the supernatural. Together, they talk about the still impressive effects work, the gorgeous horror atmosphere and the underrated acting chops of Michael J. Fox. If you’re curious to hear more from Jordan, you can check out his twitter @JoWoCo and his writing on Don't Hate The Geek for all his pop culture thoughts.

We want to hear from you – the coolest, most gruesome fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1990s podcast hosts at thomasmariani@decadesofhorror.com or tweet Thomas @NotTheWhosTommy.

Download this Episode

Manhunter (1986) - Episode 96 - Decades of Horror 0

Nov 15, 2016

"It is in your nature to do one thing correctly: Tremble." - It's the first adaptation of a Thomas Harris novel featuring Hannibal Lecter, known in the screenplay as Lecktor. Manhunter brings Red Dragon to life. For Hannibal fans, both the TV show and the Silence of the Lambs series, Brian Cox is Hannibal the Cannibal in 1986. Let the fun begin! Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s.

Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 96 – Manhunter (1986)

Even since the end of the hit and masterful Hannibal TV series featuring Mads Mikkelsen as Hannibal and Hugh Dancy as Will Graham, the Grue-crew from the Hannibal Fan Podcast have been teasing heading back to the films to review. Well, now Thomas Mariani, Christopher G. Moore and Doc Rotten take the opportunity on Decades of Horror to cover Michael Mann's adaptation of Thomas Harris' acclaimed novel Red Dragon. Given the film title Manhunter, the film celebrates its thirty year anniversary. Brian Cox is Hannibal, William Petersen is Will Graham and Tom Noonan is Francis Dollarhyde. Just as the mystery played out on the final episodes of the NBC TV series, the Tooth Fairy evolves into the Red Dragon with Reba McClane's (Joan Allen) life on the line. "Have you ever seen blood in the moonlight, Will? It appears quite black." - Hannibal to Will.

While Anthony Hopkins is by far the more well-known actor to portray Hannibal Lecter with Mads Mikkelsen still fresh in fans' eyes from the recent TV series, Brian Cox is no slouch in the role either. The Grue-crew banter back and forth about his interpretation of the killer along with Petersen's Will Graham and Dennis Farina's Jack Crawford. A young Stephen (Avatar, Don't Breathe) Lang is nearly unrecognizable as reporter Freddy Lounds and Tom Noonan is creepy as hell as Dolarhyde. There's plenty of comparisons to other films and the TV show as well as a long discussion about director Michael Mann. Ah! Hannibal, how we have missed you.

Download this Episode

My Roanoke Nightmare Chapter 9 - Episode 9 - American Horror Story Fan Podcast: Roanoke 0

Nov 13, 2016

By the end of Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell chapter 9 the second arc of American Horror Story Season 6 wraps, revealing its final girl. But, it is not all neat and tidy. This final girl is also...the big bad! What?! Yes, American Horror Story continues to give its horror tropes an added twist this season as Lee, who is a confessed murderer and now possessed by the witch is in cahoots with The Butch, slaughtering the remaining cast, is the last survivor. Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore, Dave Dreher and Derek Tatum recap and review the latest episode of American Horror Story: Roanoke with Chapter Nine. The format continues to impress and the speculation begins to grow as the story completes its second arc, Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell.

The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare
Season 6 Episode 9– "Chapter Nine"

Running low on bodies to throw mercilessly into The Butcher's arms, American Horror Story not only returns Wes Bentley into the mix but also introduces a trio of My Roanoke Nightmare fans and bloggers. Lead by Tiassa Farmiga, the over ambitious bloggers, fully equipped with Go-pro helmets and selfie sticks, trespass onto the land and suffer the fate of the Blood Moon. The episode is tight and linear, leading up to the final scenes of shocking horror as The Butcher and Lee dispatch of the remaining cast until only Lee is the surviving member. Christopher, Derek and Doc all agree the show is back on track after episode 8 and are aghast at the horrifying fate of Sophie, Todd, Milo, and Dylan. Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell ends with a bloody punch and a promise of a chilling Chapter 10.

For perhaps the first time, the hints and promises the American Horror Story marketing team (along with Ryan Murphy) dish out during the season pays off in a big way. The first nine episodes of American Horror Story: Roanoke are fantastic and it appears that Chapter 10 will be a fascinating look at what it all means. The AHS Grue-crew not only reflect on this episode, the past eight prior but speculate on what next week will bring. And, they are incredibly exciting at the return of Lana Winters from Season 2, Asylum, who will be interviewing Lee after her murder trial.

Download this Episode

Doctor Strange - Episode 188 - Horror News Radio 0

Nov 11, 2016

Horror director Scott Derrickson (Sinister, The Exorcism of Emily Rose) tackle Marvel's first supernatural property with Doctor Strange (2016). Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Dr. Stephen Strange, a successful but arrogant surgeon who suffers crippling injuries in a car accident and turns to the mystic arts to heal. Instead, he finds himself facing demons from the Dark Dimension. Light on the scares, heavy on the sci-fi, superhero thrills, Doctor Strange amazes with its incredible special effects and stunning visuals. Gruesome Magazine contributor Chad Hunt joins the grue-crew to review the latest from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Dave returns to guide the Horror News of the Week with casting news for Stranger Things Season 2 and information about Max Landis directing the remake of American Werewolf in London. The Black Saint is all set for the upcoming New York City Horror Film Festival extravaganza November 10-13, 2016. And Doc shares his visit to the Sick Chicks Flicks Horror Film Festival on Saturday, November 5, 2016 in Cary, North Carolina. What a great fall season for horror flicks!

Horror News Radio
Episode 188 – Doctor Strange (2016)
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: Doctor Strange (2016)

Marvel strikes gold once again with its 14th Marvel Cinematic Universe feature Doctor Strange. The film, directed by Scott Derrickson, owned the box office its opening weekend taking in $85 million. The Marvel super hero formula proves it remains strong and popular. At least this time around, horror fans, the film does deal with supernatural elements of alternate dimensions and otherworldly demons. The film benefits from a great cast, led by Benedict Cumberbatch, and amazing special effects. The grue-crew reveal how much they loved the film - well, all except one.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:39] Introduction of the Grue-crew
[00:03:40] Announcements
- [00:03:50] NYC Horror Film Festival
[00:07:20] Horror News of the Week
- [00:07:49] Sean Astin and Paul Reiser join the cast of Stranger Things Season 2
- [00:11:11] Scream Factory announces two treats for the holidays: Black Christmas and Dreamscape
- [00:16:00] Comic conventions hit the high seas with the Fan2Sea Comic Con Cruise
- [00:18:58] Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jackie Chan, & Rutger Hauer join the Russian horror/fantasy Viy 2
- [00:23:45] Max Landis is set to direct the remake of An American Werewolf in London
[00:32:04] Support HNR on Patreon
[00:33:11] Horror Pack
[00:33:45] Feature Review: Doctor Strange
[01:47:19] Film Festival Report: Sick Chick Flicks Horror Film Festival
[01:48:28] Stump the Saint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

Arrival, Shut In, and the Netflix TV show Black Mirror Season 3

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978) - Episode 41 - Decades of Horror 1970s 0

Nov 7, 2016

"Sleep . . . Sleep . . . and be born again into a world without fear and hate!" - the tagline for Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978) warns its audience of the horrors threatening to take over your body and extinguish your soul. Seventies leading man Donald Sutherland teams up with Brooke Adams, Jeff Goldblum, and Veronica Cartwright to save the world from the pod people. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s.

Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 41 – Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)

A sequel to the Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956), the 1978 version from director Philip Kaufman tackles the source material from author Jack Finney once again, filling it with all the paranoia post Nixon era Seventies where everyone is so self absorbed they'd never realize the world was being taken over by aliens. It is crazy-frightening how easy it seems for the alien pod people to take over San Francisco, starting with a cameo from Robert Duvall as a sinister priest to the chilling ending where Veronica Cartwright screams in terror. No character is safe. Still, not sure how any of this explains the crazy human faced dog,but, whatever. Points for creativity, eh.

Doc Rotten and The Black Saint return to give their thoughts on the classic sci-fi horror film recently released on Blu-ray by Scream Factory. Santos recalls watching the film in the theater in the Seventies while Doc shares how, as a kid, he originally did not like the film but grew to love it for the classic film that it is. The grue-crew look back at that careers of the main cast including Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, Jeff Goldblum, Veronica Cartwright, and Leonard Nemoy. The from the great sound work in the film to the special effects, they rave about Invasion of the Body Snatchers. And so should you!

Download this Episode

My Roanoke Nightmare - Chapter 8 - The American Horror Story Fan Podcast Season 6 0

Nov 5, 2016

The cast dwindles as the body count rises, before the end of Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell chapter 8 only three will remain. The Polks have Lee, Audrey, and Monet captured as Cain Polk puts it into perspective, "Momma says fear and exhaustion gives the jerky a sweet tang." Chilling! Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore, Dave Dreher and Derek Tatum recap and review the latest episode of American Horror Story: Roanoke with Chapter Eight. The format continues to impress and the speculation begins to grow as the story shifts gears into Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell.

The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare
Season 6 Episode 8– "Chapter Eight"

The anti-penultimate episode of Season 6 takes its toll on the cast of American Horror Story as two more falls victim to the curse of the Blood Moon. Shelby and Dominic suffer horrible fates while both Audrey and Lee pay for their freedom with tooth and flesh. Monet darts from the grasp of the Polk family with two in hot pursuit unaware that Mama Polk and Cain are breathing no more. Unable to escape the horrors of the house trapped by The Butcher surrounding the house, Shelby gives in to despair, leaving Dominic to take the blame once Lee and Audrey return. Tossed out into the hallway alone, Dominic faces the Pigman monster with a gruesome conclusion. The episode is full of monsters, ghosts, cannibals and blood.

Much to Christopher G. Moore's dismay, Wes Bentley appears in the final frames of chapter 8 as Dylan the actor who played the Butcher's son in the reenactments. Yes, groans aplenty. The grue-crew as a bit disappointed with this week's episode as it meanders around feeling like so much padding. While Christopher, Dave, Derek, Doc each admit that there are moments in the show that creeped them out, the show as a whole was the first last-luster hour of season 6 - a pretty good track record for AHS. There is too much Polk and not enough Butcher. Doc ends the episode with a theory that the production team is still behind the madness and there's a lot of wool being pulled over our eyes. Time will tell.

Download this Episode

Nov 4, 2016

The grue-crew encounter a number of trippy, zonked out horror films each year, but The Similars from director Isaac Ezban may be the most original, Twilight Zone infused masterpiece of the bunch for 2016. The film takes an interesting, deceptively simple premise and presents it in a uniquely fascinating and artistic fashion that manages to mix sci-fi, horror and comedy into a wonderful modern should-be-classic. You may never look at the other people in the train station the same way ever again.

For the What Have You Been Watching segment, the grue-crew dive into The Unspoken from writer-director Sheldon Wilson. The ghost story is a film in search of a second act. The movie begins with an interesting introduction and ends with a creative, surprising twist. But much of the second act involves a number of plot lines that go no where and only distract from the main theme which is too bad. Still, on the strength of the director and star Jodelle Ferland, The Unspoken promises to make a terrific Netflix watch for most listeners.

Doc sits in for Dave to guide the Horror News of the Week with a Cloverfield reveal, a trailer for Life, and a look at SiREN . The Black Saint is all set for the upcoming New York City Horror Film Festival extravaganza November 10-13, 2016. And don't forget the Sick Chicks Flicks Horror Film Festival Saturday, November 5, 2016 in Cary, North Carolina. What a great fall season for horror flicks!

Horror News Radio
Episode 187 – The Similars (2016) – The Unspoken (2016)
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: The Similars (2016)

One of the biggest surprise films of 2016, The Similars from writer-director Isaac Ezban is an easy contender for the top 10 list of horror film of 2016. Ezban is a true artist. He creatively utilizes his small cast and limited locations to his advantage. The set design is spectacular and the cinematography even better. The story is the true winning element though. The main idea behind The Similars is haunting, sometimes silly, sometimes frightening, and unnerving throughout. A gem of the year, check it out.

What Have You Been Watching: The Unspoken (2016)

Pascale Hutton, Anthony Konechny, and Neal McDonough join Jodelle Ferland (Silent Hill) in a ghost story with a twist. Sheldon Wilson directs The Unspoken from his own script. To his credit, Sheldon sticks the landing, giving his film a wonder ending that elevates the entire film. He also begins the film with a charged intro. During the second act, however, he spends too much time with a group of drug-dealing knuckleheads that do nothing for the story besides offering a body count. What works the best, Jodelle Ferland and Sunny Suljic (as Adrian), deserve far more attention and are far more interesting. Regardless, the film contains enough highlights and jump scares to make for a terrific watch on VOD or Netflix.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:37] Introduction of the Grue-crew
[00:03:46] Announcements
- [00:04:23] Thomas Mariani appears on the Geeks @ Large podcast
- [00:05:21] Sick Chicks Horror Film Festival
- [00:05:52] NYC Horror Film Festival
[00:07:55] Horror News of the Week
- [00:08:13] J.J. Abrams reveals The God Particle is part of the Cloverfield franchise
- [00:12:39] The new trailer for Life looks familiar but no less fascinating
- [00:16:07] Amateur Night from V/H/S gets a spin off feature film titled SiREN
[00:20:16] Scare Campaign Winner
[00:21:47] Horror Pack
[00:23:07] Feature Review: The Similars
[00:47:14] Support HNR on Patreon
[00:47:57] What Have You Been Watching: The Unspoken
[01:04:11] Stump the Saint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

Doctor Strange

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Motel Hell (1980) - Episode 95 - Decades of Horror 1980s 0

Oct 31, 2016

"It takes all kinds of critters to make Farmer Vincent fritters." - Rory Calhoun's in Motel Hell dialog is to die for. The design of the killer in a pig mask holding a chainsaw - as seen on the cover of an early issue of Fangoria - is as memorable as any feature from 1980. Yet, the film itself never gets the love and respect it deserves - or, does it? Let the fun begin! Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s.

Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 95 – Motel Hell (1980)

Kevin Conner, the director behind The Land That Time Forgot, Warlords of the Deep, and Arabian Adventure, steps behind the camera once again to deliver a horror film called Motel Hell. Starring Rory Calhoun, Nancy Parsons, Paul Linke, and Nina Axlrod, the slasher flick with a meal plan featuring victims buried up to their heads in a garden of evil, a couple making beef jerky that will make the Sawyer family jealous, and a killer who wears a pig head while doing dangerous battles with a chainsaw. Good times! Recently available on Blu-ray from Scream Factory, the 1980 classic is now available for a new generation of horror fans. The grue-crew dive into the deep end to see if there is anything in the recipe worth devouring. Maybe. Maybe not.

Thomas Mariani is joined by Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore to take a look at the fourth selection for this month's special look at the top horror films of the decade. For this selection it is up the listeners to decide what we review for episode 95. The choices were mostly iconic horror films of the decade: The Shining, A Nightmare on Elm Street, and Fright Night to name a few. The winner was the dark horse of the list, Motel Hell. To champion the film, Gruesome Magazine contributor Jeff Mohr steps in to share the positives for a film the the rest of the grue-crew have a difficult time appreciating. "Meat's meat, a man's gotta eat."

Download this Episode

My Roanoke Nightmare Chapter 7 - Episode 7 - The American Horror Story Fan Podcast Roanoke 0

Oct 29, 2016

Agnes Mary Winstead (Kathy Bates), the actress who played The Butcher, turns out to be the craziest of them all, attacking the producers and stars of Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell. However, it is Dominic Banks (Cuba Gooding jr.) who rings in the favorite quote for this week, "Now, let me ask you something else, judgmental M*therf*ckers, what's more important than screen time, huh?" Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore, Dave Dreher and Derek Tatum recap and review the latest episode of American Horror Story: Roanoke with Chapter Seven. The format continues to impress and the speculation begins to grow as the story shifts gears into Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell.

The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare
Season 6 Episode 7– "Chapter Seven"

As the body count rises, the bloodshed deepens and the mayhem doubles three times over. The "stars" of Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell have little hope for survival. Between Agnes roaming the countryside with her bloodied meat cleaver, the ghosts of the Miller house and the Polk family serving up their special recipe for beef jerky, the cast is doomed. They're all doomed. Well, except one! But who will that be. The choices narrow down quickly this week as Matt, Sidney and a few others meet their end this week.

The "real" ghosts begin to come out of the woodwork while the "real" terror of the Polk family sinks their teeth into Lee (Adina Porter), Audrey (Sarah Paulson) and Monet (Angela Bassett). Edward Mott rears his ugly head in the tunnels beneath the house, the Piggy-Man chases Dominic and Shelby, and the Butcher (Susan Berger) makes a sudden, gruesome appearance. But it may the shocking turn of events when Shelby catches Matt hunkering down with the witch in the basement that takes the cake. American Horror Story rocks!

We also want to hear from you! The American Horror Story Fan Podcast is designed with the fan in mind and listener feedback is encouraged. That’s right, we want to hear from you! To help you out, we have a Speakpipe account set up for you to leave your Voice Messages. Click on this link and leave Doc, Derek, Dave and Christopher your thoughts. What are your theories? What was the craziest moment of the show? Who’s your favorite character? Which character do you despise the most? The service is free and no number is required, all you need is a PC and mic.

Download this Episode

The Crow (1994) - Episode 2 - Decades of Horror 1990s 0

Oct 28, 2016

"It can't rain all the time." Eric Draven (Brandon Lee) assures young Sarah that the chaos of the world won't last forever. This declaration is one of many examples of Eric Draven taking on the heroic mantle of trying to protect the decaying city around him in The Crow (1994). Time to turn on that The Cure track and fly with a crow as Thomas Mariani brings you the second dive into the horror filled decade that is the 1990s.

Decades of Horror 1990s
Episode 02 – The Crow (1994)

Despite the tragic events of the production that took Brandon Lee from this world, THE CROW still remains one of the more memorable and stylish turns in the horror action subgenre. In the wake of Tim Burton's Batman, The Crow took the burgeoning comic book film adaptation concept and gave it an R-rated edge. The massive coats and gun toting action here influenced everything from The Matrix to Underworld. Director Alex Proyas even gave a sense of scale to this city that Christopher Nolan owes a bit of a debt to. Hell, even the late Heath Ledger owes a debt to Brandon Lee's visceral yet manic performance The Crow for his Joker. Oh, and Ernie Hudson is there too.

But who does Thomas Mariani recruit to help examine the artifice of The Crow? A new voice outside of The Grue Crew for everyone to hear. His name is Ryan Corderman, a fellow young film fan who shares his thoughts with excited exuberance. Together, they talk about the excellent set design, "edge lord" costumes and the grandiose mishmash of 90s hits that was the original soundtrack. Nothin says "90s" like The Cure and Stone Temple Pilots, am I right? If you're curious to hear more from Mr. Corderman, you can check out his twitter @StuffITextAidan for all the hilarious and unfiltered thoughts.

Download this Episode

Ouija Origin of Evil – Boo! A Madea Halloween – The Walking Dead Season 7 - Episode 186 – Horror News Radio 0

Oct 27, 2016

For Halloween 2016, horror fans are treated to Ouija: Origin of Evil. That's right, the sequel no one wanted. No one. But, to everyone's surprise, including The Black Saint perhaps most of all, the film from director Mike Flanagan is actually pretty damn sweet. It is full of atmosphere, it has characters worth following and the direction is tight. It is far better than it has any right to be. The grue-crew recap and review the film as Santos hates himself for liking a Mike Flanagan film. Ha!

Thomas steps in with a review of the number one film of the weekend, Tyler Perry's Boo! A Madea Halloween. It is two hours of pure comedy gold...or not. Thomas dives into what works and what fails in a major way as he struggles with the film's quality, the poorly times jokes and the overlong run time.

Dave returns to guide the Horror News of the Week with a loss to the horror comic industry, R.I.P. Steve Dillon, the co-creator of Preacher. Doc and Gruesome Magazine contributor Chad Hunt are back from the Knoxville Horror Film Festival and Doc has a Festival Report. And The Black Saint is all set for the upcoming New York City Horror Film Festival extravaganza November 10-13, 2016. And don't forget the Sick Chicks Flicks Horror Film Festival Saturday, November 5, 2016 in Cary, North Carolina. What a great fall season for horror flicks!

Horror News Radio
Episode 186 – Ouija Origin of Evil (2016) – Tyler Perry's Boo! A Madea Halloween (2016)
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: Ouija Origin of Evil (2016)

A few years back Doc warned the grue-crew about the pure "awfulness" of Ouija, the horror film based on the board game. The film today has a 7% at Rotten Tomatoes. Now horror fans are treated to a sequel to that film, a prequel really, as the story looks back to Ouija: Origin of Evil. Mike Flanagan, the director behind Oculus, Hush, and Before I Wake, steps behind the camera with Elizabeth Reaser, Lulu Wilson, Annalise Basso, and Henry Thomas leading the cast.

What Have You Been Watching: Tyler Perry's Boo! A Madea Halloween (2016)

Tyler Perry is an industry unto himself with finacial box office hits one after another and a fan base that will not quit. With his latest film though he may be steering far too close to Earnest Scared Stupid territory with Boo! A Madea Halloween. Or does he? Thomas Mariani steps in to recap and review the horror comedy that landed at number one for the weekend box office. Along with Tyler Perry in multiple roles, the film features Cassi Davis, Patrice Lovely, Yousef Erakat, and Bella Thorne. That's right, it's "The Night She Came Home!" Oh, dear.

Film Festival Report: Knoxville Horror Film Festival (2016)

The dedicated team behind the Knoxville Horror Film Festival invited Horror News Radio to attend, enjoy and cover their 8th annual film festival in Tennessee. Gruesome Magazine contributor and talented artist, Chad Hunt, joined Doc Rotten for a weekend of horror films and great friends, new and old. On tonight's show, Doc chimes in on a few films that made a distinct impression. First up are the feature films The Greasy Strangler and Trash Fire. Up next are the short films The Call of Charlie and Deathly. Look to upcoming episodes of HNR Extra for full coverage.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:42] Introduction of the Grue-crew
[00:03:16] Announcements
- [00:03:27] Sick Chicks Horror Film Festival
- [00:05:24] NYC Horror Film Festival
- [00:08:32] The Black Saint appears on The Horrorcast
- [00:10:40] Doc Rotten appears on Needless Things podcast
[00:12:38] Horror News of the Week
- [00:13:02] R.I.P. Steve Dillon, co-creator of Preacher
- [00:17:20] Donald Glover has been cast as Lando in Han Solo: A Star Wars Story
- [00:20:16] Godzilla 2 finds a new writer in Michael Dougherty
- [00:26:32] A trilogy of terror: A Cure for Wellness, Logan, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2
- [00:37:08] Horror TV updates with the brutal The Walking Dead Season 7 reveal and the surprising Exorcist twist
[00:55:00] Support HNR w/ Patreon
[00:56:08] Horror Pack
[00:56:47] Feature Review: Ouija: Origin of Evil
[01:24:23] What Have You Been Watching: Tyler Perry's Boo! A Madea Halloween
[01:40:40] Festival Report: Knoxville Horror Film Festival
[01:50:50] Stump the Saint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

The Monster and The Unspoken

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Creepshow (1982) - Episode 94 - Decades of Horror 1980s 0

Oct 25, 2016

"You're a regular barnyard exhibit. Sheep's eyes, chicken guts, piggy friends... and SHIT for BRAINS!" - who doesn't enjoy Adrienne Barbeau as Wilma Northrup giving Hal Holbrook as her husband Henry some shit in the delicious anthology entry The Crate? It's classic, really. It also leads to the rewarding comeuppance coming her way. Inspired by EC comics, creating by the decades hottest writing and directing talents, and designed by the Godfather of Gore, Creepshow (1982) is as good today as it was the day it was first released. Let the fun begin! Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s.

Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 94 – Creepshow (1982)

The third official selection in Decades of Horror 2016 October Selection, CREEPSHOW (1982) is one of the best examples of anthology films. It also features the historic pairing of George Romero and Stephen King. It also has Tom Savini creating the special effects. It is the horror film fan's dream team, especially for the early Eighties. Hell, even today, it's hard to deny this stellar, killer combination of talent. The cast is equally astonishing. Alongside the aforementioned Barbeau and Holbrook, the film stars Leslie Nielsen, E.G. Marshall, Viveca Lindfors, Ed Harris, Ted Danson, Gaylen Ross, Fritz Weaver and John Amplas. Hell, even Stephen King and Tom Savini have roles in the film. Each segments is crafted with an appreciation for the source material and inspirations as well as the fans of the horror genre. The definition of a classic.

Thomas Mariani is joined by Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore to take a look at the third selection for this month's special look at the top horror films of the decade. The grue-crew go from segment to segment sharing their love for the film and the stories. The film begins with Father's Day, setting the tone of the film. It continues with Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill, giving King the chance to chew the scenery. Something to Tide You Over solidifies the EC comics inspiration while The Crate has fun with the material. They're Creeping Up On You buries its unsuspecting audience under 250,000 cockroaches. Yuck! The prologue/epilogue story reminds the crew why Tom Atkins is a fan favorite. And, C'mon, "Meteor shit!" Does it get any better?

Download this Episode

My Roanoke Nightmare Chapter 6 - Episode 6 - American Horror Story Fan Podcast 0

Oct 21, 2016

The more producer Sidney reveals the secrets behind those involved in making My Roanoke Nightmare, the more characters on top of characters we get. Hot, damn! And Kathy Bates playing Agnes Mary Winstead, the actress who played The Butcher, turns out to be the craziest of them all. She goes off the deep end uttering "I shall smite thee, limb from limb, the way a falcon tears a rabbit!" Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore, Dave Dreher and Derek Tatum recap and review the latest episode of American Horror Story: Roanoke with Chapter Six. The format continues to impress and the speculation begins to grow as the story shifts gears into Return to Roanoke: Three Days of Hell.

Welcome to The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare. This the unofficial podcast about the hit FX Horror Television show American Horror Story by fans for fans as brought to you by HorrorNewsTV.com, DocRotten.com, and GruesomeMagazine.com. Now in its sixth highly anticipated season, the award-winning genre show is set to push even more boundaries and break even more unimaginable fears and horror with a found-footage inspired nightmare. Returning to co-host the fan podcast is Doc Rotten, Christopher G. Moore and Dave Dreher. For this season, the role of co-host Thomas Mariani will be played by Derek Tatum.

The American Horror Story Fan Podcast: My Roanoke Nightmare
Season 6 Episode 6– "Chapter Six"

We were told they were going to turn things upside down on episode 6 and that they damn well did. It may not be as "surprising" as everyone on the podcast was looking for but the show has certainly gone down a new and exciting road. Seven of the cast from the first 5 episodes join Cheyenne Jackson as he begins filming season two of his hit television show. This go around it is more like Big Brother with scares, to quote the show itself. The format is a combination of reality TV and found footage making Doc Rotten one happen camper!

While Lily Rabe, Andre Holland, and Adina Porter return as Shelby, Matt and Lee, the rest of the cast return playing the actors who played their roles in the reenactments. Sarah Paulson, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Angela Peters return as Audrey Tindall, Dominic Banks, and Monet Tumusiime who played Shelby, Matt, and Lee during the reenactments. To spice things up, they throw in Evan Peters as Rory Monahan who portrayed Edward Phillipe Mott. Now, he is married to Audrey to give everything a color of soap opera. Before we know it, a number of the ghost characters appear: the nurses, the pig man, the little girl, the Butcher (maybe) and a jarring burnt gentleman that is most likely Lee's husband. A couple of great scares, lots of fun thrills and a few laughs. American Horror Story rocks!

Download this Episode

Shin Godzilla (2016) - Luke Cage (2016) - Episode 185 - Horror News Radio 0

Oct 20, 2016

ToHo returns with another entry in their most popular franchise ever, Shin Godzilla (2016). The film dominated the box office in Japan earning a limited run in US theaters. The big green monster is heading back to the big screen, baby, yeah! The Grue-crew follow the big guy's roar and are here to share their thoughts and reactions. Godzilla Resurgence is on the block.

Back home, on the small screen, Marvel unleashes another 13 episodes of superhero fantasy in its string of shows heading to The Defenders. The show is Luke Cage. Mike Colter stars as Carl Lucas the man who has been transformed to a bullet proof super hero known as Luke Cage. Misty Knight, Cottonmouth, and Diamondback are not far behind. Marvel lives and breathes in the New York City streets with gritty realistic adventures. The Grue-crew share what they loved...and hated...about the show.

Doc steps in for an overworked Dave to guide the Horror News of the Week with another loss to the horror industry, R.I.P. Ted Mikels (The Corpse Grinders, The Astro-Zombies). Doc and Gruesome Magazine contributor Chad Hunt are heading to the Knoxville Horror Film Festival is coming October 21-23, 2016 in Knoxville, TN. And The Black Saint is all set for the upcoming New York City Horror Film Festival extravaganza November 10-13, 2016. And don't forget the Sick Chicks Flicks Horror Film Festival Saturday, November 5, 2016 in Cary, North Carolina. What a great fall season for horror flicks!

Horror News Radio
Episode 185 – Shin Godzilla (2016) – Luke Cage (2016 - Netflix)
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

Feature Review: Shin Godzilla (2016)

It has been 12 years since the last ToHo Godzilla film, Godzilla: Final Wars (2004), and two years since the Gareth Edwards US Version. Shin Godzilla has arrived and is ready to tear up Tokyo one more time. The film follows Japanese politicians as they struggle to deal with the destruction caused by the rampaging monster. They move from boardroom to boardroom as the decide on how to defeat Godzilla as he transforms from a sluggish creature to the monster Kaiju fan recognize. The Grue-crew are across the board in their reaction to the film. Oh, noes.

What Have You Been Watching: Luke Cage (2016 - Netflix)

Marvel and Netflix return with another superhero TV series, Luke Cage. Mike Colter first appeared as Cage in Jessica Jones and returns to his own series diving into Harlem. Trying to create a new life for himself, Cage ends up confronting a series of gangsters, Cottonmouth, Diamondback, and Shades with only Misty Knight at his side. The cast is phenomenal but the Grue-crew struggle with the overall story line. Mahershala Ali delivers a fantastic villain in Cornell Stokes while Rosario Dawson returns as Claire Temple. Luke Cage is set to be followed by Iron Fist and the first round of Netflix heroes concludes with The Defenders.

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE

[00:00:40] Introduction of the Grue-crew
[00:02:25] Announcements
- [00:02:45] Knoxville Horror Film Festival
- [00:03:57] Sick Chicks Horror Film Festival
- [00:04:32] NYC Horror Film Festival
[00:09:48] Horror News of the Week
- [00:10:09] R.I.P. Ted V. Mikles
- [00:16:31] Thomas reviews SyFy's Channel Zero
- [00:24:15] Netflix's Gerald's Game to star Carla Guigino and Bruce Greenwood
- [00:27:42] Discussion about the Autopsy of Jane Doe trailer
- [00:30:31] And the trailer for Volumes of Blood: Horror Stories
[00:35:35] Support HNR w/ Patreon
[00:36:16] Horror Pack
[00:37:01] Feature Review: Shin Godzilla
[01:22:57] What Have You Been Watching: Luke Cage
[01:52:10] Stump the Saint

NEXT WEEK ON HNR

Ouija: Origin of Evil

GRUESOME LINKS

Download this Episode

Interview William Mahaffey, director Knoxville Horror Film Festival - Episode 9 - HNR Extra 0

Oct 18, 2016

The Horror News Radio grue-crew continue their 2016 journey to a series of amazing horror film festivals up and down the East Coast. Next up for Doc Rotten and, for this festival, Chad Hunt is the jam packed Knoxville Horror Film Festival in Tennessee playing October 21 - 23, 2016. Doc sits down with the director of the festival, William Mahaffey. The show has continued to to grow over the past year and the line up is as strong as ever, including showings of Phantasm Remastered and Phantasm Ravager. William shares his journey, the films and a peak into the future for the Festival.

Be sure to catch more of Horror News Radio each week where Doc is joined by regular co-hosts The Black Saint, Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani. And continue to look to HNR Extra for additional reviews of Festival film, Horror on TV and interviews with directors, writers, effects artists and stars of the best horror films the independent market has to offer. Look for Paul Cardullo to return to discuss the films seen at GenreBlast Film Festival and Chad will discuss the films seen this weekend at the Knoxville Horror Film Festival.

Horror News Radio Extra
Episode 009 – Interview w/ William Mahaffey, director Knoxville Horror Film Festival
Subscribe – iTunes – Facebook – Stitcher

INTERVIEW: William Mahaffey, director Knoxville Horror Film Festival (2016)

For the eighth annual Knoxville Horror Film Festival, the programming crew have gathered an amazing festival full of fantastic horror films. Director William Mahaffey is here to discuss the festival, the films and the future. First he shares the origins of the festival and the passion he and his team have going into the curating and execution of the event each and every year. He shares some of the decisions he faces as he schedules the films. He also goes through each of the feature films and highlights many of the sensational shorts playing at this years festival. He also gives us a peak at the plans for next year including when and how to submit films for 2017.

The 2016 Knoxville Horror Film Festival Schedule

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2016 at Regal Cinemas Downtown West 8

Trash Fire: d. Richard Bates Jr.
- The Call of Charlie: d. Nick Spooner
- The Stylist: d. Jill Gevargizian
Phantasm Remastered: d. Don Coscarelli
- Feeding Time: d. Matt Mercer
- When Susurrus Stirs: d. Anthony Cousins
Bad Blood: d. Time Reis
- Postman Pat's Pet Sematary: d. Lee Hardcastle
- Death Metal: d. Chris McInroy

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2016 at Regal Cinemas Downtown West 8

The Master Cleanse: d. Bobby Miller
- An Eldritch Place: d. Julien Jauniaux
- Deathly: d. Mike Williamson
Fury of the Demon: d. Fabien Delage
- Black Ring: d. Hasan Can Dagli
- The Call: d. Alban Ravassard
- A Knock at the Door: d. Katrina Rennels, Wendie Weldon
- Polaroid: d. Lars Clevberg
Red Christmas: d. Craig Anderson
- Doll: d. Michael Peer
- Madre de Dios: d. Gigi Saul Guerrero
- Ideal: d. Kevan Tucker
Phantasm: Ravager: d. David Hartman
- Curve: d. Tim Egan
- No Touching: d. Adam Davis, Will Corona Pilgrim
The Greasy Strangler: d. Jim Hosking
- Born Again: d. Jason Tostevin
- The Procedure: d. Calvin Lee Reeder
GG Grindhouse Grind-Out

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2016 at Scruffy City Hall

Short Block
- The Sunken Convent: d. Michael Panduro
- Cauchemar Capitonne: d. Sebastatien Huberdeau, Maude St. Pierre
- The Plan: d. Ariel Poupart
- The Sound Of Blue Green & Red: d. Joshua Erkman
- Laura, Lost: Simon Sanquist
Sadako vs Kayako: d. Koji Shiraishi
Short Block
- Wonderful Talking Board: A Misadventure in Belief
- Bedside Visitors
- There’s Something Down The Road: d. August Aguilar
- Hush Little Baby
- Bobby McGee: Ghost Hunter
Beyond the Gates: d. Jackson Stewart
Awards Party

GRUESOME LINKS

Knoxville Horror Film Festival

Download this Episode