Grave Discussions

Episode 67 - You Are My Buddi

It's finally time to play, buddies! With a fresh new look, personality, and voice, Chucky has returned to the silver screen in Lars Klevberg's "Child's Play" for one more scare... and Barnabas and Samael emerge from their crypts to give you an exclusive review! As long-time fans of the quintessential killer doll, find out what the pair think about the newest iteration. In a similarly technology-inclined Cult Corner, "Chopping Mall" is featured, and the Chopping Block offers the new folk horro...

Episode 66 - Playing with Dolls

One of the most divisive horror films of the year, Lars Klevberg's "Child's Play", aims to turn the killer doll subgenre of horror on its head. But before that, Barnabas and Samael return to offer their list of the must-see movies featuring the porcelain puppets and mannequins that have terrorized viewers for decades. Leading up, the original 1988 "Child's Play" is examined in the Cult Corner, and the newest Into the Dark installment, "They Come Knocking", is featured on the Chopping Block!

Episode 65 - Attention, Creeps!

In 1982, two horror icons joined forces for an unprecedented genre experience. "Creepshow" became the fevered brainchild of George A. Romero and Stephen King and the epitome of a practical horror anthology; now, Greg Nicotero and Shudder join forces to revive the classic film as a streaming series! In this episode, Barnabas and Samael discuss the upcoming project and the stories it aims to tell in undoubtedly brutal fashion. Also featured are underdog cult classic "Phantasm" and Australian cr...

Episode 64 - King (and Queen) of Monsters

Monsters come in all shapes and sizes; some can be very human and terrifying in ways that we can understand, and some can be living incarnations of prehistoric titans, primal beings with only one goal: domination. Either way, there would be no horror without these wicked forces! In the first ever double feature review episode, Barnabas and Samael discuss two films poised to kick off a historically horrific summer season: Ma and Godzilla: King of the Monsters.

Episode 63 - Red Son

The origin story of Brandon Breyer, aka Brightburn, is not unfamiliar to audiences; the difference lies in the actions of perhaps horror's first great supervillain. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael review the highly anticipated and unique horror production. Will "Brightburn" and its super-evil-boy cement their place in the genre? The wrap-around segments take a mind-altering turn, featuring scuzzy number "Brain Damage" and the hot new thriller "The Perfection!"

Episode 62 - Not Quite Super ”Heroes”

Episode 62 - Not Quite Super "Heroes"

Episode 61 - The Power to Rule

Since the collapse of the Dark Universe, Universal has been hesitant to pursue the classic Monsters once again. This time, however, Blumhouse joins the picture and Leigh Whannell is set to direct a reimagining of "The Invisible Man!" In this episode, Barnabas and Samael go fully transparent by offering their desires, dont-wants, and theories about the newest iteration of a classic horror film. More importantly, will Elisabeth Moss live up to the great Claude Rains? To achieve this discussion,...

Episode 60 - Raising

Artists whose work hinge on the weird, twisted, and wondrous reality of life often appear as social outcasts, and Clive Barker is no different. Once an odd thread in the web of fantasy horror, Clive Barker's willingness to venture into a world of painful sexual desire and gruesome body terror has cultivated an icon. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael examine the cinematic works of Barker, from "Rawhead Rex" in the Cult Corner to Hellraiser and more. Also featured on the Chopping Block is th...

Episode 60 - Raising Hell

Artists whose work hinge on the weird, twisted, and wondrous reality of life often appear as social outcasts, and Clive Barker is no different. Once an odd thread in the web of fantasy horror, Clive Barker's willingness to venture into a world of painful sexual desire and gruesome body terror has cultivated an icon. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael examine the cinematic works of Barker, from "Rawhead Rex" in the Cult Corner to Hellraiser and more. Also featured on the Chopping Bl...

Episode 59 - All Aboard the Horror Hate Train

The horror community is one filled with pride, passion, and unabashed disdain for the genre — sometimes. Perhaps filled with the most ravenous, opinionated fanbase in cinema, horror films have long found ways of dividing the community, and contemporary horror is no different; some fans clamor to exclaim that horror is "dead" and there are no more good movies being made. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael explore the negative perception of present-day horror films and offer their thoughts on...

Episode 58 - The Barely Weeping Woman

The Conjuring-verse just got bigger... and wetter. "The Curse of La Llorona" is the newest ghostly flick produced by the unshakable James Wan, and in this episode Barnabas and Samael deliver their review of the much-anticipated movie. Is 'La Llorona' good enough to warrant tears of joy, or simply leave the audience weeping out of frustration? Also featured are hidden cult classic "Superstition" and new creature feature "The Silence!"

Episode 57 - The Perfect Organism

In 1979, a legendary movie monster was born; now synonymous with excellent sci-fi horror, "Alien" also introduced the world to Ellen Ripley and spawned a wildly successful franchise. In this special episode, Over Under Fair's Dave Roldan and Roger Castillo are resurrected in order to discuss "Alien" for the film's 40th anniversary. With a retrospective lens, the OUF duo, along with Barnabas and Samael, dissect the terrifyingly claustrophobic elements of Scott's legitimately scary spa...

Episode 57 - The Perfect Organism

In 1979, a legendary movie monster was born; now synonymous with excellent sci-fi horror, "Alien" also introduced the world to Ellen Ripley and spawned a wildly successful franchise. In this special episode, Over Under Fair's Dave Roldan and Roger Castillo are resurrected in order to discuss "Alien" for the film's 40th anniversary. With a retrospective lens, the OUF duo, along with Barnabas and Samael, dissect the terrifyingly claustrophobic elements of Scott's legitimately scary space opera,...

Episode 56 - Sometimes, Dead Isn’t Bettah

In the famous words of Jud Crandall, "Sometimes... dead is better." Remakes have been looming over the horror community for a long time, and it doesn't get as controversial as Kevin Kölsch and Dennis Widmyer's "Pet Sematary." The tenuous reboot of the 1989 classic and second adaptation of Stephen King's hit novel, "Pet Sematary" has leaven fans as divided as the family it portrays. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael review the film and aim to answer the question: is dead in fact better? Als...

Episode 56 - Sometimes, Dead Isn't Bettah

In the famous words of Jud Crandall, "Sometimes... dead is better." Remakes have been looming over the horror community for a long time, and it doesn't get as controversial as Kevin Kölsch and Dennis Widmyer's "Pet Sematary." The tenuous reboot of the 1989 classic and second adaptation of Stephen King's hit novel, "Pet Sematary" has leaven fans as divided as the family it portrays. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael review the film and aim to answer the question: is dead in fact be...

Episode 55 - The Dimension of Imagination

A door that can only be unlocked with the key of imagination and the distinct, creepy voice of The Narrator - such things can only be found in... the Twilight Zone! Over half a century after the original phenomenon that was "The Twilight Zone" dazzled audiences, Jordan Peele returns with his take on the classic series, and Barnabas and Samael review the debut episodes "The Comedian" and "Nightmare at 30,000 Feet!" Will the reboot be one of many accomplishments of the filmmaker's banner year, ...

Episode 54 - I Got Five On It

With the release of one of the most anticipated horror films of the year, Jordan Peele's "Us" emerges as divisive as its characters. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael review the sophomore feature by the Oscar-winning director and comedian, analyzing the film's themes and technical achievements. Will "Us" cement its place in horror history or simply serve as a reflection of a more contemporary cinematic issue? The undead ushers also discuss the late Larry Cohen's "The Stuff" and br...

Episode 54 - I Got Five On It

With the release of one of the most anticipated horror films of the year, Jordan Peele's "Us" emerges as divisive as its characters. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael review the sophomore feature by the Oscar-winning director and comedian, analyzing the film's themes and technical achievements. Will "Us" cement its place in horror history or simply serve as a reflection of a more contemporary cinematic issue? The undead ushers also discuss the late Larry Cohen's "The Stuff" and bro-rrific ...

Episode 53 - His Name was Jason

It is perhaps the most iconic and prolific horror franchise in the world, spear-headed by the genre's poster boy for death and destruction: Jason Voorhees. Friday the 13th has taken the world by storm, due in no small part to the proverbial mommy's boy, but the mythology of Jason changed much over the years. Barnabas and Samael remove the putrified hockey mask and reflect on Jason's evolution over time, the people who played him, and more in this episode honoring the late John Carl Buechler. ...

Episode 52 - The Host with the Ghost

"It's your old pal, the Crypt Keeper!" or "Hello, darling. It's me, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark!" Such introductions immediately drew horror fans in for a spooky good time every week, itching to see their favorite hosts and whatever tale of terror that followed. At one time, horror hosts were immensely popular in the world of entertainment, and at others not so much. Now, hosted horror series and their ghoulish presenters are poised to make a comeback, and Barnabas and Samael cover the topic...

Episode 51 - What Doesn’t Kill You

Horror films can scare, scar, and shock, but the world's original tales of terror come from legend and mythology. In A24's newest pick-up "The Hole in the Ground," an Irish folk tale threatens to come a lot closer to home than protagonist Sarah could ever imagine, and Barnabas and Samael have their exclusive review of the film! Also, this week's Cult Corner features a nostalgic class in the form of "The Night of the Comet," and on the Chopping Block is Hulu's newest installment of the Into th...

Episode 51 - What Doesn't Kill You

Horror films can scare, scar, and shock, but the world's original tales of terror come from legend and mythology. In A24's newest pick-up "The Hole in the Ground," an Irish folk tale threatens to come a lot closer to home than protagonist Sarah could ever imagine, and Barnabas and Samael have their exclusive review of the film! Also, this week's Cult Corner features a nostalgic class in the form of "The Night of the Comet," and on the Chopping Block is Hulu's newest installment of th...

Episode 50 - And The Award Goes To...

The Oscars have long been the grandest filmmaking award ceremonies for the upper crust of Hollywood, but not always the most inclusive. Since the inception of the Academy Awards, horror films have been largely overshadowed, but does the recent resurgence of the genre signal a shift into visibility? In this episode, Barnabas and Samael assume an outside perspective on horror's history at the event, and ponder what must happen for it to re-establish a powerful presence. Also featured are the Cu...

Episode 49 - Love Hurts and Scars

Love is in the air! Or is that the smell of delinquent teenage blood? No matter which way you slice them, people can't seem to stop falling in love in horror films, for better or worse. Barnabas and Samael return from their lonely graves to bring you this special Valentine's Day-themed episode in which they review "Happy Death Day 2U," an innovative sequel to a unique slasher movie. Will the frightening fiends fall in love with it, or will it be the start of another ill-fated loop? Also featu...

Episode 48 - There's Something Wrong With Miles

We would do anything for our children, right? Even if they wanted to harm us? The horror films featured in this episode - covering perhaps the most personal type of horror - ask that very question, but the answers may not be what you expect. The killer kid subgenre sees a renewal this year with the release of "The Prodigy," which Barnabas and Samael are apt to review. Rounding out the discussion are the film that perhaps started it all, "The Omen," and a fresh spin with Dread's "The ...

Episode 48 - There’s Something Wrong With Miles

We would do anything for our children, right? Even if they wanted to harm us? The horror films featured in this episode - covering perhaps the most personal type of horror - ask that very question, but the answers may not be what you expect. The killer kid subgenre sees a renewal this year with the release of "The Prodigy," which Barnabas and Samael are apt to review. Rounding out the discussion are the film that perhaps started it all, "The Omen," and a fresh spin with Dread's "The Golem."

Episode 47 - The Last Days of the 90s

The genius of Wes Craven's "Scream" captivated audiences, critics, and filmmakers alike, leading to a memorable era of horror. Unfortunately, that era was slashed short, but what really led to its decline? In this episode, Barnabas and Samael channel their childhoods for #90shorrorweek and explore the dying days of the self-aware late 90s horror boom and the factors that caused it to finally end. Tied in is an examination of the classic sci-fi horror "The Faculty," and new Netflix production ...

Episode 46 - The Best and Frightest

 In the most variable and insane genre in cinema, every role is crucial when crafting a cinematic tale of terror. None, however, is perhaps more crucial than that of the director; following in the footsteps of legends such as Wes Craven, John Carpenter, and Stuart Gordon, modern-day horror directors have pretty big shoes to fill. This episode features an in-depth discussion on the very men and women - like Leigh Whannell, Ari Aster, and Jennifer Kent - who will revolutionize the genre for dec...

Episode 45 - We Ain't Afraid a' No Ghosts

You know the theme song, you know the suits, and most importantly... you know not to cross the streams! "Ghostbusters" has become one of the most beloved and revered franchises in film, and despite not being horror in the classic sense, the paranormal hijinks of New York's premiere spectral entrapment service are still well-regarded in the horror community. With the announcement of "Ghostbusters 3" comes a copious amount of hype and speculation, and Barnabas and Samael take the oppor...

Episode 45 - We Ain’t Afraid a’ No Ghosts

You know the theme song, you know the suits, and most importantly... you know not to cross the streams! "Ghostbusters" has become one of the most beloved and revered franchises in film, and despite not being horror in the classic sense, the paranormal hijinks of New York's premiere spectral entrapment service are still well-regarded in the horror community. With the announcement of "Ghostbusters 3" comes a copious amount of hype and speculation, and Barnabas and Samael take the opportunity to...

Episode 44 - A New Year Of Fear

After a banner year for the horror genre in 2018, this year promises to deliver even more scares and mind-melting terror! With the arrival of original films such as "Us" and "Piercing" to adaptations, reboots, and sequels like "It: Chapter 2" and "Child's Play," there will be no shortage of horror in 2019, but will the quality hold up? In this episode, Barnabas and Samael explore the year's upcoming horror and discuss their expectations about content, trends, and what they hope not to see. Pr...

Episode 43 - Think Outside the Box

The new year has already given horror fans a box-office hit in the form of "Escape Room", a fun but eerily familiar genre thriller. Barnabas and Samael ring in 2019 by asking a very important question: do the sales numbers reflect the quality of this puzzle-filled terror flick? This episode features our exclusive review of Adam Robitel's junior effort as well as discussions on "New Year's Evil" and the late 2018 smash hit "Bird Box!"

Episode 42 - 2018: The Year’s Top Screams

The year may be over, but the horror will never be forgotten. From the incredible stories of Hereditary and Mandy to the year's greatest disappointments, the genre was nothing short of exciting. But which films were the best of the best? Barnabas and Samuel wrap up 2018 with their lists of the ten best horror films of the year!   2018 was also the beginning of Grave Discussions, but not the end. Thank you to all of the fans that tuned in and made this podcast possible. A big thank you to Spor...

Episode 42 - 2018: The Year's Top Screams

The year may be over, but the horror will never be forgotten. From the incredible stories of Hereditary and Mandy to the year's greatest disappointments, the genre was nothing short of exciting. But which films were the best of the best? Barnabas and Samuel wrap up 2018 with their lists of the ten best horror films of the year!   2018 was also the beginning of Grave Discussions, but not the end. Thank you to all of the fans that tuned in and made this podcast possible. A big thank yo...

Episode 41 - Happy Ho-Ho-Horrordays!

They've made their lists and checked them twice, and this holiday season the movies are full of fright! Have yourself a gory little Christmas with Barnabas and Samael - your jolly ghosts love holiday horror, can't you tell? This special holiday episode is filled to the brim with spooky slasher classics set in the snow and terrifying Christmas-themed monsters. Tune in now for a discussion of films like "Black Christmas," "Krampus," and "Silent Night, Deadly Night." Happy Horrordays, fiends!

Episode 40 - You Don’t Have to Be Afraid

"Jaws isn't a horror movie," or "Hereditary was more of a family drama!" Here's the best: "It was really more of a thriller..." We've heard it all before. Despite unanimous consensus, some films seem to straddle the line of horror and "anything else." In this episode, Barnabas and Samael strip the surface labels away and examine what actually makes something a horror movie. Featured in the Cult Corner and Chopping Block this week are "Sleepaway Camp" and new Shudder original "You Might Be the...

Episode 40 - You Don't Have to Be Afraid

"Jaws isn't a horror movie," or "Hereditary was more of a family drama!" Here's the best: "It was really more of a thriller..." We've heard it all before. Despite unanimous consensus, some films seem to straddle the line of horror and "anything else." In this episode, Barnabas and Samael strip the surface labels away and examine what actually makes something a horror movie. Featured in the Cult Corner and Chopping Block this week are "Sleepaway Camp" and new Shudder original "You Mig...

Episode 39 - The Possession of Yet Another Teenage Girl

In Hollywood's latest installment of its "young American girl gets possessed by a demon" franchise, "The Possession of Hannah Grace" attempts to stand out among the horrid masses. Barnabas and Samael dissect the new supernatural flick in this week's episode; will the film - led by a composed Shay Mitchell - bring the scares or rot forever on the slab? Also featured is an exclusive interview with Detroit 48 Hour Film Horror Project producer Jennifer Gentner where she discusses the competition ...

Episode 38 - Scream, Queen!

Our favorite film genre is rife with sexual exploitation, but there are few leading ladies that stick in our minds after the dust settles. They are the final girls, or better known as "scream queens!" As integral to horror as the scares themselves, horror vixens have dominated the hearts and minds of fans over the decades. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael take a closer look at what makes a scream queen truly worthy of her crown.

Episode 37 - Die-monds in the Rough

Horror is endless. Though you may see a handful of genre films take the spotlight at any given moment, there are countless others that lurk in the shadows, unknown to the masses. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael highlight four hidden gems across various segments in order to introduce fresh, blood-soaked horror to more people. Tune in and see what treasures lie beyond.

Episode 36 - Toil and Trouble

While witches have existed in the annals of history for centuries, their appearances in horror films have been spotty. That is, until recently. Following 2018's Suspiria and the popularity of Netflix's Sabrina reboot, Barnabas and Samael decide to examine the witch character and its resurgence in the genre. Angsty teens, true love, and dark spells are the special ingredients for this brew of an episode!

Episode 35 - Suspiriorum

Let's get weird. Luca Guadagnino's reboot of Argento's 1977 neon-filled masterpiece has arrived with ferocity, polarizing audiences nationwide. It's arthouse approach demands a lot, but not too much for horror buffs Barnabas and Samael. In this episode, the perilous pair offer their thoughts on the oddity that is 2018's Suspiria and also hail the return of two beloved segments with evaluations of Jacob's Ladder and Netflix original film Apostle.

Episode 34 - Tricks and Treats

Halloween has finally arrived. You've been putting up your spooky decorations, dressing up in splat-tacular costumes, and most importantly watching horror movies! This episode features discussions of some of the most Halloween-focused films in horror, with a special focus on beloved anthology Trick 'r Treat. Get your candy, sit back, and enjoy the spookiest installment of Grave Discussions yet. Oh, and don't forget - NEVER blow out a jack o'lantern before midnight... This marks part five of t...

Episode 33 - The Night He Came Home Again

The Shape. Michael Myers. Evil. Whatever you prefer to call him, he is perhaps the most prolific cinematic killer in history. For the first time in forty canonical years, Michael Myers returns to Haddonfield in David Gordon Green's Halloween, and the Grave Discussions team has a lot of opinions about it. The episode features a full review of arguably the most anticipated horror film of the year, covering every gory detail. This marks part four of the month-long Grave Discussions Halloween ser...

Episode 32 - Monsters in Our Midst

As human beings, you fear the unknown, so what's more terrifying than a hideous monster? Halloween just isn't quite right without them, and Barnabas and Samael explore that very subject this episode by highlighting two deliciously frightening creature features: Silver Bullet and Fright Night! The ghouls discuss practical effects makeup, themes, and just what elements make these movie monsters so legendary and terrifying. This marks part three of the month-long Grave Discussions Halloween series.

Episode 31 - The Sultan of Slash

A Nightmare on Elm Street gave the world Freddy Krueger, but Wes Craven's foray into horror was much humbler and a whole lot lewder. In this episode, Barnabas and Samael are joined by special guest The Caretaker of Clean Slate Productions to discuss the works and legacy of the indomitable genre master. From classics such as The Hills Have Eyes to underrated gems like My Soul to Take, the Grave Discussions team aims to highlight one of horror's greatest filmmakers and his insurmountable contri...

Episode 30 - Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus

It's officially the greatest time of the year to be a horror fan! Halloween season is in full swing, and what better way to start it off than by reliving your childhood? Or maybe your own children want to feel spooky? Barnabas and Samael explore these familial desires by delving into a couple of tried-and-true Halloween classics: Halloweentown and Hocus Pocus! This episode marks the first of Grave Discussions' special October series highlighting Halloween-themed horror.

Episode 29 - Shock-tober Survival Guide

Halloween is the biggest event of the year for horror fanatics, and nobody knows that better than Barnabas and Samael. The pernicious pair have meticulously created an October survival guide just for YOU! If you need horror movie recommendations, event information, or cool locations to visit this Halloween season, then look no further. They also cover a classic Halloween-time cartoon, Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island, and then check out the buzzing new sci-fi/horror film The Endless.

Episode 28 - Predator is Cooler, Right?

The Predator has arrived chock-full of explosions, post-war trauma, and nasty alien mandibles. Barnabas and Samael return to give an exclusive review of the film following it's powerful opening weekend. Will it live up to the 1987 classic, or will it fall just a couple of "choppas" short? The ghoulish g-hosts also discuss Alice, Sweet Alice and the new paranormal anthology film Ghost Stories.