Watch If You Dare

To continue the Season of Spoop on the theme of "grim returns," Aaron and Derek cover 1986's supernatural rockstar horror flick "Trick or Treat" (also known as "Ragman") directed by Charles Martin Smith. They discuss the use and marketing of Ozzy Osbourne and Gene Simmons in the cast and the exploration of metal music and panic of the 80s. They also get into the character development of the protagonist throughout the film, how this predates parasocial relationships, and many other aspects of the movie. Derek is a big fan of his. Aaron his tapes for him and die!
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The 2026 Season of Spoop on the themes of "returns" and "back from dead" begins now! To start things off, Aaron and Derek discuss 1989's supernatural horror movie "Pet Sematary" adapted from Stephen King's 1983 novel. They talk about the heavy themes in regard to death, how grief can consume and destroy, and the lore exploration between the film and the book. They also get into Jud's motivations, what scares you more from this film at different ages, and many other aspects of this movie. The soil of Aaron's heart is stonier. Derek's ground is sour.

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The Spoop Bois Aaron and Derek are back! On this special out of continuity, in between episode, the boys explain the hiatus and get into some horror they've enjoyed lately with a focus on movies. 

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This episode features the return of Aaron's mom Tammy as a guest! They discuss 1986's crime thriller "Manhunter" directed by Michael Mann and based off of the 1981 novel "Red Dragon" by Thomas Harris. They talk about Brian Cox's performance as Hannibal Lecktor (Lecter), the portrayal of crime procedural in media, and how Francis Dollarhyde makes for a great horror-adjacent villain. They also get into Mann's "Miami Vice" neon influence bleeding into this movie, the banality of evil, music choices, and many other aspects of the flick. Tammy, Aaron and Derek recorded a podcast. DO YOU SEE!

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Aaron and Derek welcome back horror comic author extraordinaire Cullen Bunn (Harrow County, The Empty Man, The Sixth Gun, etc.) to talk 1995's neo-noir supernatural horror film "Lord of Illusions" written and directed by Clive Barker. They discuss what makes Nix such a good horror villain, Bakula's performance as Harry D'Amour, and the amazing opening sequence with the cult. They also get into the world of stage magicians vs actual magicians, Barker's history with the D'Amour character, and trope inversion of a villain trying to achieve godhood. Aaron and Derek know flesh is a trap, and magic sets them fre...

On this episode, the Spoop Bois discuss 1984's Australian animal attack horror film "Razorback" written by Everett De Roche and directed by Russell Mulcahy. They talk about the Ozploitation sub-genre of movies, the use of the Australian outback as a wasteland, and the elements of psychedelia and ethereal nightmare logic in visuals and storytelling. They also get into the backdrop of animal rights activism, man vs nature, the junk punk aesthetic of the Baker brother characters, and many other aspects of the film. Aaron and Derek only got two states of being- dangerous or dead. Nothing in-between.

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On this episode, Aaron and Derek cover 2020's supernatural folk horror film "His House" written and directed by Remi Weekes. They talk about why movies like this are so important in understanding world views that are not often represented in media, and they get into how the flawed nature of the characters Rial and Bol is well written. They also discuss the context of the South Sudan's history of conflict, the effectiveness of supernatural horror mixed in with trauma and social commentary, why this is movie is more important now than ever, and many other aspects of the flick...

Val returns to the podcast once again to discuss 2006's supernatural horror film "Silent Hill" adapted from the Konami published game series and directed by Christophe Gans. They talk about how the movie captures the thematic vibes of the game franchise, comparisons and differences from the source material, and how the creative team got involved with a video game adaptation. They also get into why Sean Bean's subplot doesn't work, the horror of the final confrontation, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron and Derek are looking at the map. Val is memorizing it.

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On this episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 2003's science fiction horror film "Dreamcatcher" directed by Lawrence Kasdan, co-written by Kasdan and screenwriter William Goldman, and adapted from the 2001 Stephen King novel. They talk about how this movie failed despite having a superstar team of creatives, the novel being equally as flawed, and where Stephen King was at this point in his life and career. They also discuss the movie blending multiple genres, the insane performance choices for certain characters, and many other aspects of the flick. Aaron and Derek will bite...your bag...and everything else.

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PODCAST DAY! For the 2025 holiday season, Aaron and Derek cover 1987's slasher sequel "Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2" directed by Lee Harry. They discuss why a large chunk of this movie is a recap of the first movie, Lee Harry's career, and the brief moments of actual depth through the film. They also get into Eric Freeman's relationship with his casting as Ricky Caldwell, the extremely low budget, how it's become an entertaining cult classic to revisit, and many other aspects of the movie. Mother Superior! Aaron and Derek got a present for you!

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To celebrate it now being over 20 years since its release, Aaron and Derek are joined by returning guest Lauren Willson to tackle 2005's supernatural action flick "Constantine" directed by Francis Lawrence and adapted from the "Hellblazer" comic book series. They talk about how the Constantine character balances being edgy and taking the classic hero's journey. They also get into the stylistic choices of the movie, how Keanu Reeves makes this version of the character his own, the amazing smaller performances, differences between this film and the comic, and many other aspects of the movie. Lauren believes in you. Aaron...

For Thanksgiving, the Spoop Bois are joined by returning guest Valerie Morreale of the Screenage Wasteland film website and The Canon Podcast to tackle the 1980s cult holiday slasher film "Blood Rage" directed by John Grissmer. They discuss why they chose this film and what makes it perfect horror viewing for Thanksgiving. They also dig into what Val thought about the movie and her opinions on character motivations. Derek is not Aaron. Val is eating leftovers on the floor. Surprise, that's not cranberry sauce, it's a podcast (again again again AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN)! If you've read this far, congratulations...

Superstar horror author Caitlin Starling (The Graceview Patient, The Starving Saints, The Death of Jane Lawrence, The Luminous Dead, and many other works) returns to the show to discuss 2016's psychological horror film "A Cure for Wellness" directed by Gore Verbinski and written by Justin Haythe with Aaron and Derek. They get into how this movie thematically pairs well with Caitlin's new book The Graceview Patient, the pacing of gothic horror, and fears of claustrophobia and healthcare. They also talk about Mia Goth's performance vs the writing of her character, what makes this flick both ambitious and messy, the tr...

For Halloween 2025 and to wrap up the "High School Horror" Season of Spoop, Aaron and Derek are joined by Raf Stitt and Valerie Morreale of the Screenage Wasteland film website and The Canon Podcast to discuss 1996's slasher classic "Scream" directed by Wes Craven and written by Kevin Williamson. They talk about how "Scream" both honors and subverts slasher films, the thematic elements of mass violence in schools, and what it did in revitalizing horror in the 90s. They also get into the undertones of certain relationships between characters, the realism of Ghostface making the slasher more terrifying, all...

For the second "high school horror" themed Season of Spoop episode, Heather returns to the show to discuss 1976's supernatural horror movie "Carrie" directed by Brian De Palma and adapted from the Stephen King book. They get into bullying in high school, whether or not Carrie is a sympathetic character, and how this adaptation's success impacted the careers of King, De Palma, and star Sissy Spacek. They also talk about how the mother character is the true villain, why most the horror comes from the experiences of an abused teenager, and many other aspects of the film. Heather can...

It's October, so 2025's Season of Spoop begins! This year the theme is "high school horror." To start off this year's series, Nate and Tyler (hosts of the Hate Speech Podcast, The Bruce Campbell Podcast and Animorphing Time Podcast) return to discuss 1998's science fiction horror film "The Faculty" directed by Robert Rodriguez with a screenplay by Kevin Williamson.  They talk about what makes high school scary, the supreme late-90s nostalgia in this movie, and whether or not it still holds up. They also get into Kevin Williamson's writing, all the obvious horror movie references, what seems problematic u...

On this episode, Aaron and Derek take a road trip with 1975's road horror film "Race with the Devil" directed by Jack Starrett. They discuss RV culture, how this movie is a mix of 70s Satanic panic, road movies, car chases and hicksploitation, and the differences between Satanism in media in the 1970s vs the 80s and 90s. They also talk about the meeting of old school Hollywood and modern horror, Peter Fonda and Warren Oates' careers, the portrayal of authority and paranoia, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron doesn't drive too well when he's asleep. Derek...

On this episode, acclaimed author Caitlin Starling (The Luminous Dead, The Starving Saints, The Death of Jane Lawrence, etc.) joins Aaron and Derek to discuss 2010's Norwegian dark fantasy mockumentary "Trollhunter" written and directed by André Øvredal. They talk about Caitlin's bibliography, inspirations, writing process and experiences with professional publishing. They also get into Trollhunter's blending of Norwegian culture and folktale with grounded reality, the movie's exploration of bureaucracy and lack of oversight, the effective use of found footage in the revelation of trolls and plot progression, and many other aspects of the movie. Derek and Aaron are in tro...

On this episode, Aaron and Derek discuss 1995's haunted machine film "The Mangler" directed by Tobe Hooper and based off the 1972 Stephen King short story. They talk about how Hooper combined his humorous horror sensibilities with King's insane creative energy and adding more to what is an otherwise direct adaptation of the short story. They also get into Hooper's use of lighting and set dressing, the not so subtle exploration of capitalism and lack of oversight consuming everything, and how Hooper as a director always "goes for it." Derek is doing a little dance! Aaron has a little bit...

On this episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 2001's psychological horror film "Frailty" directed by and starring Bill Paxton. They talk about Bill Paxton's creepy earnestness, how the writing cleverly handles multiple twists and reveals, and what makes this an effective horror movie without any jumpscares. They also get into McConaughey's proto-True Detective mannerisms, this flick's place between late 90s and aughts horror, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron and Derek know that destroying demons is good.

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To celebrate the 50th anniversary of "Jaws," Damian returns to the show to talk the 1975 masterpiece film directed by Steven Spielberg and adapted from the 1974 novel by Peter Benchley. They discuss why "Jaws" is a horror movie first, the effect on merchandise pre-Star Wars, and how it popularized the summer blockbuster. They also get into personal experiences with the movie, the horrors of an uncaring force of nature, differences compared to the book, and many other aspects of the flick. Damian has doll's eyes. Aaron needs a bigger boat. Derek smiles.

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On this episode, Heather returns to discuss 2002's post-apocalyptic horror film "28 Days Later" directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland. They get into how the lo-fi quality helps enhance the movie, the effect it had on horror and pop culture, and what this did for the careers of Cillian Murphy and Naomie Harris. They also talk about how this watch was different for Derek, the characterization of Selena, and many other aspects of the film. Aaron, Derek, and Heather will never hear another podcast that hasn't already been recorded. 

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For this Friday June 13th, actress Katie O'Hagan (Mia Winters in Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village) returns on short notice to discuss a personal favorite 1981 slasher sequel "Friday the 13th Part 2" directed by Steve Miner in his directorial debut with Derek and Aaron. They talk about the consistency of the Friday the 13th franchise, how the sequel tries to outdo the first, and the acceptance of Jason's death plot hole. They also get into memorable characters and kills, what makes this a competent sequel, the effectiveness of Jason's reveal, and many other aspects of the film. Katie told...

On this episode, Derek and Aaron discuss 1990's psychological horror film "Jacob's Ladder" directed by Adrian Lyne. They talk about how screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin's spiritual journey and beliefs influenced the script, the heavy inspiration this movie had on the Silent Hill video game franchise, and how this sits somewhere between cult hit and horror masterpiece. They also get into the exploration of Vietnam and government experimentation, Lyne and Rubin's specific ideas on what they wanted in the movie, and many other aspects of the flick. According to Derek, Aaron is already dead.

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Aaron's brother Josiah returns to the show to discuss 1992's New Zealand comedy splatter film "Braindead" ("Dead Alive" in North America) directed by Peter Jackson with the Spoop Bois. They talk about the wild nature of Peter Jackson's career trajectory, the amount of fake blood used with the practical effects, and the insane humor and how it works. They also get into their favorable scenes, why setting the film as a 1950s period piece helps enhance certain themes, mother-son dynamics, and many other aspects of the movie. Josiah, Aaron and Derek are not dead exactly, they're just...sort of...

On this episode, Derek and Aaron discuss 2000's science fiction psychological horror film "The Cell" directed by Tarsem Singh. They talk about how style over substance helps this movie, the Hollywoodization of mental illness and serial killers, and how much of the plot takes place as a true crime thriller vs the dream horror scenes. They also get into how the cast features Jennifer Lopez, Vincent D'Onofrio and a slew of character actors, Tarsem Singh's music video directing career, and many other aspects of the film. Derek went sailing. Aaron's world, Aaron's rules.

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To celebrate the 50th anniversary of its release, Aaron and Derek discuss Italian giallo film "Deep Red ('Profondo rosso' in Italian)" directed by Dario Argento. They talk about what makes this a quintessential giallo film, the straightforward slasher elements, and how the movie challenges perception and memory. They also get into the film's portrayal of sexual orientation and gender dynamics, the thematic use of the color red, what makes it accessible for newer audiences to the subgenre, and many other aspects of the flick. Aaron feels death in this room! Derek will arm wrestle you.

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In time for Saint Patrick's Day, actress Katie O’Hagan (Mia Winters in Resident Evil 7 and Resident Evil Village) returns to the podcast to discuss 2015's British-Irish co-produced supernatural horror movie "The Hallow" directed by Corin Hardy with Aaron and Derek! They get into the portrayal of Irish folklore with nature and vegetation, distrust of outsiders, and the horrors of changelings. They also talk about the Lebor Gabála Érenn, the encroachment of modern humanity against old magic, and many other topics about the movie. Derek and Aaron dare not trespass where Katie put down roots.

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On this episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 1990's horror film "Def by Temptation" written, directed, and produced by James Bond III who is also the star. They talk about how this became James Bond III's passion project, the progressive and problematic aspects of the story, and Kadeem Hardison's portrayal of K through the plot. They also get into the the excellent soundtrack, the shadow of politics in a post-Reaganism urban America, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron and Derek use a cigarette lighter. The flame lasts longer.

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Rest in peace, David Lynch! This episode, Aaron's wife Heather returns to discuss 1986's neo-noir psychological thriller "Blue Velvet" written and directed by David Lynch with Aaron and Derek. They get into Lynch's exploration of the horrific dark underbelly of a white picket fences Americana town, Dennis Hopper's horrifying portrayal of the villainous Frank Booth, and dynamics of sex and violence. They also discuss some of Lynch's real life inspirations for the story, the concept of love conquering evil, and many other aspects of the film. Heather wants to go for a ride! Aaron and Derek want to know...

Aaron and Derek start 2025 off by tackling 2007's vampire horror film "30 Days of Night" directed by David Slade and based on the comic book of the same name. They talk about the severe isolation and how unforgiving the environment is to anyone unprepared, the animalistic portrayal of the vampires, and the addition of certain character relationships not shown in the comics. They also get into the concept of becoming a monster to fight monsters, whether or not the runtime is warranted, and many other aspects of the flick. Derek and Aaron realize that cold ain't the weather. That's podcast...

Happy holidays! For the 2024 holiday episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 1980's Santa slasher "Christmas Evil" (originally "You Better Watch Out," and also known as "Terror in Toyland") written and directed by Lewis Jackson. They compare it with other dark holiday horror movies, discuss the dangerous nature of the deranged Santa's interaction with children, and the thematic elements of working class stress. They also talk about Lewis Jackson's inception of the plot, the dream-like climax, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron and Derek want you to remember to stay good boys & girls. Respect your mothers & fathers and do...

On this episode, Heather Gunnell returns to the show to discuss 1981's supernatural horror film "Ghost Story" directed by John Irvin and based on the 1979 novel by Peter Straub. They talk about how this is a great horror movie for winter, the tradition of telling ghost stories, and revelations of town elite thematically being more relevant now than ever. They also get into unnecessary character inclusions, Peter Straub's reaction to the movie, the effectiveness of the ghost, and many other aspects of the movie. Derek will take you places you've never been. Aaron will show you things that you...

For Thanksgiving, the Spoop Bois are joined by returning guest Shelby Novak of Scare You To Sleep Podcast and Bloody Disgusting fame to tackle the 1980s cult holiday slasher film "Blood Rage" directed by John Grissmer. They discuss why they chose this film and what makes it perfect horror viewing for Thanksgiving. They also dig into what Shelby thought about the movie and her opinions on character motivations. Derek is not Aaron. Shelby is eating leftovers on the floor. Surprise, that's not cranberry sauce, it's a podcast (again again again AGAIN AGAIN)! If you've read this far, congratulations and...

On their 150th, Aaron and Derek tackle 2020's sci-fi psychological horror film "Possessor" written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg. They discuss the nature of class and privacy shown in the movie, the bleakness of an alternative 2008, and the idea of possession through unexplained scientific means. They also get into comparisons of Brandon's work with his father's, the purposeful use of gore and violence, losing yourself, and many other aspects of the film. Derek is cleaning cat litter. Aaron is a worm.

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It's the 2024 Halloween episode in which Derek and Aaron cover the last "IT CAME FROM OUTER SPACE!!!!!!" themed Season of Spoop film! They talk about the 1988 sci-fi horror remake of "The Blob" (original released in 1958) directed by Chuck Russell and written by Russell and Frank Darabont. They discuss the amazing practical effects, how this remake made the Blob actually scary, and the movie's critiques on society, government and the original movie. They also get into the subversive writing, flipping character roles, and many other aspects of the movie! Derek and Aaron are just guys in plastic suits who show...

The "IT CAME FROM OUTER SPACE!!!!!!" themed Season of Spoop rolls on. Aaron and Derek are joined by James to talk 1985's British science fiction horror flick "Lifeforce" directed by Tobe Hooper, adapted by Dan O'Bannon, and based on the novel "The Space Vampires" by Colin Wilson. They discuss spirituality mixed with science fiction, how many horror subgenres and themes are packed into one movie, and the inconsistent pacing. They also get into the over the top climax, the portrayal of women, Hooper taking a B movie concept to insane heights, and many other aspects of the movie. Aaron...

2024 Season of Spoop starts now! The movie theme this year is IT CAME FROM OUTER SPACE!!!!!!! To begin, Aaron and Derek are joined by Katie the other cohost of the podcast "True Crime Campfire" to discuss 1988's science fiction comedy horror "Killer Klowns from Outer Space" written, directed and produced by the Chiodo Brothers. They talk about the Chiodo brothers experience with special effects, the amazing practicality under low budget circumstances, and how this movie tongue-in-cheek ignores plot. They also get into the missed opportunity of sequels and franchise building, the humor and whether or not it works, and m...

On this episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 2005's Japanese found footage horror movie "Noroi: The Curse" directed and co-written by Kōji Shiraishi. They discuss how the pseudo-documentary presentation compliments found footage, the foreboding dread and methodical pacing, and Japanese culture and folklore inspiring the curse's lore within the movie. They also talk about the limited distribution outside of Japan, the reasoning for cameras being present in every scene making sense, and many other aspects of the film. Aaron and Derek want the truth. No matter how terrifying, they want the truth.

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The Spoop Boiz are joined by their avenging angel/college pal Caitlyne to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their favorite gothy sadboy revenge tale - The Crow!  They explore the original James O'Barr indie comic book, director Alex Proyas' music video visuals that brought this trashfire dystopian classic to life, the soundtrack's impact on the MTV grunge generation, and star Brandon Lee's stunning charisma and tragic legacy.  Put on your face paint, grab your leather duster, and rock out with your caw-k out.

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