Horror Joy

Jeff is joined by Scottish writer Jane Flett, whose debut novel Freakslaw is out from Doubleday (UK) and Zando (US), with a forthcoming novel Welcome to the Chaoskampf (May 14). Flett describes how horror and joy connect through different ways people enjoy fear—adrenaline junkies, “white knucklers,” and “dark copers”—placing herself in the first group. They discuss haunted houses as horror rooted in inescapable, corrupted “safe” spaces, including hotels and the idea of buildings persisting on longer timescales. Turning to Freakslaw, set in a late-1990s Scottish mining town disrupted by a traveling funfair, Flett explores small-town conservatism, class, suffering, and joy as disruption, including queer community and Derek's coming-of-age. She previews Welcome to the Chaos Camp as a New Orleans story involving climate weirdness, filmmakers, arson, and cult-like non-hierarchical organizing, and recommends Feast While You Can, Carrion Crow, and the film Saint Maud.https://janeflett.com/

On this episode of Meet Your Maker, Brian is joined by Aimee Pokwatka to talk about her novel Accumulation and the link between horror and joy. Pokwatka distinguishes pleasure from deeper joy and argues horror places us in “communion with terror,” reminding us of death, grief, and shared human vulnerability in ways that can be sustaining. She connects this to parenting and domestic life, recalling living in Newtown during the school shooting while nursing her infant. Pokwatka explains Accumulation's haunted-house frame as a flexible metaphor for women's labor, repetition, doubt, and entrapment—including financial constraints—while noting her real house, a found doll, and a sighting of a ghost informed the novel.http://www.aimeepokwatka.com/

Brian and Jeff continue their haunted house series on Horror Joy with guest Ally Malinenko, discussing her middle grade novel This Appearing House alongside R.L. Stine's Goosebumps debut Welcome to Dead House. Malinenko describes the joy of horror—especially for kids—as teaching readers how to face monsters, offering catharsis, and providing language to process fear and trauma. She explains how This Appearing House uses a haunted-house structure to explore anxiety and the lasting effects of her cancer diagnosis without centering a “cancer book,” including why the diagnosis is largely unstated for young readers. We also dive into bullying, parent-child gaps, rules and rule-breaking in Stine's work, of Petey's death, and the nostalgic influence of Scholastic book fairs and iconic cover art.

In this episode Jeff and Brian welcome award-winning writer and editor Dan Coxon to discuss his new book, Come Sing for the Harrowing (Clash Books, April 2026), and how it interrogates and reshapes folk horror's rigid archetypes through humor, modernity, class, and hybridity.They also talk through the connections between horror and joy, emphasizing the genre's supportive community and his preference for weird, uncanny, atmospheric horror that makes the world feel stranger and more exciting. Coxon explores how genre functions as a bookselling and marketing tool that can limit readers and publishers. They analyze liminality, ecstatic tonal shifts, and the writing process variability.Dan recommends Will Maclean's Solace House and Lucy McKnight Hardy's Night Babies, and the video game, Disco Elysium.Check out Dan's work at https://www.dancoxon.com/

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff examine Zach Cregger's 2022 film Barbarian as a haunted house story without the supernatural, arguing the “haunting” comes from misogyny, capitalism, and systemic failure embedded in an Airbnb in decayed Detroit. They outline the film's triptych structure—Tess's uneasy stay with Keith, AJ's arrival as the absentee landlord facing rape allegations, and an '80s flashback revealing Frank as the house's original torturer—framing these men as escalating forms of masculinity. The discussion connects hidden basement tunnels to epistemic tension and genre concepts like the Terrible Place, monstrous feminine, and Final Girl, noting failures of policing and protection, and interpreting the title Barbarian as critique of domestic invasion and violence.

Brian and Jeff interview horror author Rachel Harrison (The Return, Such Sharp Teeth, So Thirsty, Black Sheep) about the relationship between horror and joy, her writing origin story, and her novel Play Nice. Harrison describes horror's joy as catharsis and a safe space for fear, anxiety, and “big feelings,” offering empowerment through survival and, as a writer, control. She recounts studying screenwriting, moving from LA to New York, working TV jobs, writing short speculative fiction (Bad Dolls), and publishing The Return in 2020. She discusses finding community—especially through Clay McLeod Chapman and Nat Cassidy—during lockdown and navigating “cafeteria anxiety.” On haunted houses, she emphasizes home as supposed safety, and explores tropes of women not being believed, gaslighting, and emotional abuse, including Play Nice's book-within-a-book framing. She previews Kiss, Slay, Replay (Sept. 8), recommends Liz Kerin's How to Disappear Completely, and praises the Netflix series Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen.

Jeff and Brian continue their Horror Joy exploration of haunted houses by discussing the 1982 classic Poltergeist.They ask whether the film functions as a conservative celebration of the nuclear family's resilience or a quasi-Marxist critique of capitalism, unbridled consumerism, and television's pernicious influence on youth.They discuss the housing development's erasure of history by building over a cemetery without moving the bodies, highlight the implications of downward mobility during the Reagan era, and explore Douglas Keller's scholarship on the film deflecting attention from real-world suffering onto occult figures.They emphasize the isolating nature of suburban homogeneity and consider the film's messy narrative and contested authorship between Steven Spielberg and Tobe Hooper.

In this episode of Horror Joy, Jeff talks with author Andrew F. Sullivan, author of The Marigold, about the relationship between horror and joySullivan links the joy of horror to subverted expectations, catharsis, and the generative possibilities of horror, especially in books, where meaning is co-created with readers and not all answers need be provided. Sullivan discusses how his Irish Catholic upbringing functions as an enduring identity that shapes his sense of mystery, belief systems, and worldbuilding, including fragility, debate, and misinterpretation as story engines. He describes his beginnings as a writer through libraries, early storytelling inspired by Jurassic Park, reading widely, manual labor jobs, and later mentorship in a graduate program with author Miriam Toews. The conversation turns to The Marigold's Toronto setting, ecological crisis and wildfires, urban wildlife like raccoons, and the novel's critique of capitalism, corporate greed, and gig-economy precarity.

Jeff and Brian begin a Horror Joy mini-series on haunted and haunting houses by discussing Stanley Kubrick's 1980 adaptation of Stephen King's The Shining and the Overlook Hotel as a possibly sentient space.They ask whether the hotel merely contains ghosts or actively amplifies violence, racism, sexism, and repetition.They critique the “Indian burial ground” trope, discuss Grady's claims that Jack has “always been” the caretaker, the final photograph's time-loop implications, and scholarship on hereditary or cyclical violence.They emphasize the film's maze motifs (hedge maze, carpets, corridors) and consider the steadicam and “autonomous camera” as intensifying dread, while noting Dick Hallorann's disposability and ending with “joy” found in the film's craft and unsettling images.References:Graham Allen. ‘A Mad Image, Chafed by Reality': Kubrick, the Uncanny and the 4th of July 1921 Photograph in The ShiningF. Brigo & S. C. Igwe & N. L. Bragazzi. Kubrick's The Shining and the erased myopathic faceLaura Mee. The Shining. Liverpool University Press, 2017Paul Sunderland. The Autonomous Camera in Stanley Kubrick's The Shining

Brian and Jeff are joined by author A.C. Wise to talk about joy in horror, her books The Ghost Sequences (2021) and Out of the Drowning Deep (2024), and her new novel Ballad of the Bone Road (Jan. 26, 2026). Wise describes horror's joy as an adrenaline-driven extreme emotional response akin to excitement, and traces her horror roots to Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, darker fairy tales, and lifelong ghost-story interests. They discuss how others react to her genre work, her day job at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and shifts in speculative fiction toward mainstream popularity and genre mashups. Wise explains Out of the Drowning Deep as a noir/horror/science-fantasy blend exploring faith, meaning-making, and a feedback loop between divinity and belief, including inhuman, unsettling angels. She recounts the near-rights-issue backstory of The Ghost Sequences cover and notes the title story's inspiration from a ghost-themed art installation. A.C.'s recent horror joys: Sinners, Staircase in the Woods, The Buffalo Hunter, and the game Dead Take.A.C. Wise Website

In this Horror Joy episode, Jeff and Brian discuss the 1992 film Candyman as the final entry in an “academic horror” course, focusing on how the movie links urban legend, the university, and racialized violence. They follow graduate student Helen Lyle's dissertation research into the Candyman myth at Chicago's Cabrini-Green, highlighting how academic distance and the “white gaze” turn Black suffering, especially Daniel Robitaille's lynching, into an object of study. Drawing on writers such as Zayla Crocker, George Yancy, Kimberlé Crenshaw, and Robin R. Means Coleman, they argue the film reflects its early-1990s moment (including Rodney King and the Los Angeles uprising), critiques systemic racism and misogyny, and frames Helen as both privileged researcher and exploited academic. They Will Say: Ritual Naming and Living beyond the Pale with CandymanHorror Noire A History of Black American Horror from the 1890s to PresentBernard Rose's Candyman and the Rhetoric of Racial Fear in the Reagan and Bush Years

Jeff and Brian are joined by director Rod Blackhurst about his forthcoming independent horror film Dolly, releasing in theaters only on March 6, 2026. Blackhurst explains how horror can produce joy by confronting internal dread—identity loss, isolation, and moral extremity—through a cinematic language that bypasses reason and provokes visceral response. He describes Dolly as an extreme, unrelenting film rooted in a real person's fears about inheriting a “monster” mother's traits, and as a collision between opposing views of motherhood and family. Dolls function as uncanny stand-ins for children and chosen family, with a larger, partially withheld mythology. Blackhurst discusses casting, including Sean William Scott's dramatic role and Fabianne Therese's demanding lead performance, emphasizing actor safety, and he rejects “torture porn” as his aim. He also reflects on gatekeeping, genre labels, influences like Barbarian, and using proof-of-concept shorts (Baby Girl, Night Swim) to get features made.

This episode of Horror Joy turns to academic horror through Mariama Diallo's 2022 film Master, set at the fictional elite Ancaster University. Our discussion treats the film's central claim that what haunts is not the past but the present and future: racism, microaggressions, elitism, and the suffocating atmosphere of tradition. We welcome returning guest T (S. Trimble Associate Professor of Women and Gender Studies at the University of Toronto) and first-time guest Joe Vallese (NYU faculty fellow, expository writing), editor of It Came From the Closet: Queer Reflections on Horror.The conversation then unpacks Master's slow-burn dread: Gail Bishop (Regina Hall), the newly appointed first Black master; Jasmine, a first-year Black student; and Liv, a professor up for tenure, all navigating both explicit racism and subtler academic violence. We discuss the Scarlet Letter as a canonical text used to police interpretation and power in the classroom, including Jasmine's failing grade and the gaslighting embedded in academic evaluation.

In this episode of Horror Joy, we dive into the intertwining relationship between horror and joy with guest Daisy Pierce, author of 'Something in the Walls,' 'The Missing,' and 'The Silence.' Daisy shares her thoughts on how horror provides a safe outlet for experiencing fear and anxiety, and discusses her origins and influences as a writer. We explore the different cultural approaches to folklore in the US and UK, the power dynamics behind traditions, and the challenges of writing horror, especially from a female perspective. Daisy also touches on her interest in ghost hunting and shares some recent horror media that has brought her joy.Find Daisy at https://daisypearce.com/

In this episode of 'Horror Joy,' Jeff and Brian delve into Robert Rodriguez's 1998 film 'The Faculty.' The episode explores the film's portrayal of high school alienation, the nineties cultural backdrop, and the use of alien parasites as a metaphor for societal issues. We discuss the film's all-star cast, its nostalgic nineties aesthetic, and its underlying themes related to drugs, authority figures, and football culture. The episode also highlights the anti-lesbianism strain evident in late nineties teen movies and the joy found in the film's tongue-in-cheek horror elements.

In this episode of Horror Joy's 'Meet Your Maker', we delve into a conversation with Stoker award-winning author Emily C. Hughes. We discuss her book 'Horror for Weenies', designed to help the faint-hearted navigate through significant horror films. Emily talks about the relationship between horror and joy, citing examples of modern twists on classic horror tropes. She shares her personal journey from being a scaredy-cat to a lover of horror, underlining the importance of community and invitation in appreciating the genre. Emily also highlights some of her current favorite horror films, books, and games, drawing attention to the breadth and appeal of horror.

This episode of 'Horror Joy' delves into Luca Guadagnino's 2018 reimagining of 'Suspiria.' Brian and Jeff explore the themes of academic horror, feminism, and political violence within the film's setting of post-war Berlin. We compare Guadagnino's version to Dario Argento's original 1977 film, discussing the significant differences, including the portrayal of witchcraft and the regulation of bodies in an academic setting.We highlight the film's complex power structures and touches on the role of music, dance, and cinematic techniques in creating horror. The discussion also questions Guadagnino's claim of making a feminist film, examining the intricate dynamics between the characters and the violent depiction of women's bodies. We find a blend of intellectual and emotional engagement in the film, despite their mixed feelings about some aspects.  Breathing Back the History of German Modern Dance through the Horror Film Genre in Luca Guadagnino's Suspiria (2018) by Wesley LimEntanglement In Time: Nostalgic Affect As Cine-Choreography In The White Crow (2018) And Suspiria (2018) by Kaixuan YaoRadically Feminist or Monstrously Feminine?: Witches and Goddesses in Guadagnino's Suspiria (2018)Goddesses in Guadagnino's Suspiria (2018) by Lindsay MacumberRoberts, John W. “Dancing the Dance of Another: Allegory, the Diagram, and Suspiria (2018).” Discourse: Journal for Theoretical Studies in Media and Culture, vol. 45, no. 1–2, Dec. 2023, pp. 33–64. EBSCOhost,

In this episode of 'Horror Joy,' Brian and Jeff sit down with author and playwright Nat Cassidy to explore his career and the intricate relationship between joy and horror. Cassidy discusses his journey from a macabre child fascinated by the works of Stephen King and Shakespeare to a versatile storyteller working across various mediums, including novels, plays, and audio dramas. The conversation delves into the philosophical underpinnings of fear and anxiety, the evolution of horror as a genre, and the impact of his latest work, 'When the Wolf Comes Home.'Cassidy shares his insights into the immersive and ecstatic qualities of horror, likening it to spicy food that delights because it hurts. We also touch on the importance of live performance and the existential truths that horror can reveal.

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff jump headlong into academic horror. Their firs stop is Dario Argento's 1977 class, Suspiria.We explore themes such as ritualized violence, paranoia, and the cult-like power dynamics of a coven of witches who both govern and are governed by the institution. We highlight the vivid colors, atmospheric elements, and unsettling soundtrack that is used to convey meaning and evoke fear. We delve into the use of witches not as symbols of feminist empowerment but as tools of misogyny, driven by the male gaze. Additionally, we consider the idea of suppressed queer and feminine elements in a drab world. We conclude with a look at the film's reliance on practical effects over CGI, setting a joyful yet terrifying tone.Kristeva, Julia. Powers of Horror: An Essay on Abjection. Translated by Leon S. Roudiez, Columbia University Press, 1982.

In this episode of 'Horror Joy, Meet Your Maker', Jeff sits down with Ivy Grimes, an author known for her supernatural and surreal short story collections including 'Glass Stories'.Ivy discusses her unique journey into the horror genre having grown up in a conservative setting, her inspirations from filmmakers like David Lynch, and her fascination with using glass as a central motif.The conversation delves into the relationship between horror and joy, the elements of weird fiction, and the influence of classical literary tales on Ivy's writing. The episode wraps up with a look at the contemporary indie horror writing community and Ivy's upcoming projects.Ivy Grives website The 25th Hour anthology 

In this episode of 'Meet Your Maker' by a Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff are joined by Terrell Dorsey, founder of the film production company Vault 81. Terrell discusses his journey into film making, the creation of his film 'Sawmill Road,' and his unique perspective on the intersection of horror and joy. He elaborates on his passion for writing, directing, and producing original horror content that resonates with audiences. Terrell also talks about his influences, learning experiences, and the authentic local lore behind 'Sawmill Road.' The episode concludes with insights into his future projects and the vision for Vault 81, including an ambitious feature film called 'The Tunnels.'Terrell Dorsey

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff speak with Jack Finn, a Horror author from the Pacific Northwest. Jack discusses his life-long love for Horror, how it played a joyous role in his childhood through monster movies, and his journey from enjoying Horror to writing it. He talks about his 2023 debut novel 'The Seven Deaths of Prince Vlad,' his werewolf duology 'Prey Upon the Lambs' and 'The Desolation of Hunters,' and his short story collection 'They Come When You Sleep.' The conversation delves into the intersection of Horror and joy, folklore's influence on his work, and the genre's deeper thematic elements. Jack also provides insights into his writing process, the significance of historical and cultural contexts in his stories, and his upcoming projects. Withered Hill by David BarnettCunning Folk by Adam NevilleYellow Jackets 

In this episode of 'Horror Joy,' hosts Brian and Jeff delve into the appeal of found footage horror and are joined by author Michael Wehunt to explore these themes. They discuss Wehunt's debut novel, 'The October Film Haunt,' which blends subgenres including found footage, slasher, and occult horror. The conversation covers Wehunt's writing journey, the intricacies of the horror genre, and deeper themes of community, belief, and the potential dangers they pose. Wehunt shares his thoughts on the joy within horror and how true-life horrors like social media manipulation and post-truth societies interact with horror elements in literature. The episode concludes with insights on recent horror literature that has brought joy to the participants, emphasizing the depth and complexity of the genre.

In this episode of Horror Joy' Meet Your Maker series, Jeff and Brian welcome author Chris Dileo to discuss his new book, Empty Devils (Cabelo Books, 2025), and his deeply personal relationship with horror. Dileo emphasizes that reading is a process of cooperation between the reader's imagination and the writer's world. He discusses how he used Empty Devils to distill the national tragedy at the “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville in 2017 into a horror narrative. Jeff and Chris also chop it up over teaching Shakespeare and how the bard shows up in the story. Ultimately, all three find joy in the project of reading, writing, and celebrating how the horror genre allows us to work through difficult and sometimes violent political and ideological activity in the real world.***Chris Dileo's Books from the Coffin***Cat Delaney – Unclaimed PropertyKiller on the Road – Stephen Graham JonesPhilip Fracassi - Autumn Springs Retirement Home MassacreSam Rabelein – Galloway's GospelKeith Rosson – Coffin MoonKat Silva – Where the Soul GoesJonathan Janz - Veil

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Jeff and Brian sit down with Peter Hall and Paul Gandersman, directors of the upcoming found footage horror film 'Man Finds Tape,' releasing on December 5th. The conversation covers the joy to be found in horror, the directors' backgrounds, the creative processes behind their projects, and the unique blend of found footage and cosmic horror in their latest film. They also delve into themes of faith and contemporary political climates impacting their work. The episode offers insightful reflections on how horror can create a sense of community and personal joy.***After finding mysterious video clips, siblings investigate the strange recordings and uncover a disturbing secret spreading through their Texas town.***

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian and Jeff welcome acclaimed author Gwendolyn Kiste, a multiple Bram Stoker Award winner, to discuss her novel 'The Haunting of Velkwood.'They explore the synergistic relationship between horror and joy, emphasizing the cathartic and self-discovery elements inherent in the genre.Kiste shares her journey from a young storyteller to an author who uses horror to navigate and express personal and societal traumas.The conversation also delves into the unique stasis experienced by characters in 'Velkwood' and the liberating exploration of queer identity within horror narratives. The episode concludes with a discussion on cicadas, puzzles, board games, and Kiste's upcoming projects.

The Depths of Horror: Exploring Barry Levinson's The BayIn this episode, Brian and Jeff delve into Barry Levinson's 2012 found footage horror film, 'The Bay.' Set during a disastrous 4th of July celebration in Claridge, Maryland, the film intertwines environmental horror with a mockumentary format. The story follows reporter Donna Thompson as she navigates through a town descending into chaos due to a waterborne outbreak. Drawing parallels to 'Jaws,' the hosts examine how 'The Bay' critiques human neglect and environmental irresponsibility while utilizing modern technology to heighten its impact. They also explore themes of surveillance, the narrative coherence of found footage, and the unsettling reality it brings to life. Ultimately, the episode underscores how horror can reveal uncomfortable truths about our world, sparking a rich discussion on the intersections of joy, terror, and societal reflection.Buy us a CoffeeMimesis of Media: Found Footage Cinema and the Horror of the Real by Niel McRobertFound Footage Horror Films - A Cognitive Approach by Pete Turner

In this episode of Meet Your Maker, we are joined by author Kayli Scholz, known for her horror novels St. Grit, Black Rain Season, and her most recent novel, Yeehaw Junction. Kayli discusses the intersection of joy and horror in her work, sharing personal anecdotes about how horror has influenced her life, from childhood experiences to her deep immersion in genre writing. She delves into the societal and psychological aspects that inspire her storytelling, including how place and culture shape horror. The episode also features insights into her writing process, the impact of media on her characters, and her thoughts on the current state and misperceptions of the horror genre.KayliScholz.com

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff continue their deep dive into found footage horror by investigating the 2007 Spanish film [REC], directed by Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza.The conversation explores the film's claustrophobic terror, its political nature, and its effectiveness as a groundbreaking entry in the found footage genre.We discuss:The Appeal of Found FootageThe Horror of quarantineReading [REC] forward into 2025, including social and political commentaryThe joy of an effective found footage film, the use of the camera, and terrifying staircasesReferences:The Pain in Spain: an analysis of horror auteur Jaume Balaguero's films by Brian Michael GossDon't Miss a Bloody Thing: [REC] and the Spanish Adaptation of Found Footage Horror by Shelagh M. Rowan-Legg Reel Evil: A Critical Reassessment of Found Footage Horror by Xavier Aldana Reyes

In this episode of Meet Your Maker, a series by Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff welcome author Clay McLeod Chapman to discuss his work, including his recent novel, Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, and the fascinating relationship between joy and horror.Chapman shares his belief that joy and horror work together, emphasizing the catharsis found in horror, which allows for the release of pent up fears and the ability to tap into or let go of strong emotions.Chapman discusses his journey to becoming a horror creator, noting that while he's been writing professionally for nearly 25 years, people only began to notice his work around seven years ago.Exploring Wake Up and Open Your Eyes: The conversation delves into his polarizing novel, which has been characterized as "MAGA Horror" and "online Horror."Clay McLeod ChapmanCoffin Moon by Keith RossonHorror for Weenies by Emily HughesChumbawumba

This episode of Horror Joy features a deep dive into the genre of found footage horror, particularly focusing on the 2023 film 'Frogman.' Hosts Brian and Jeff discuss with the film's co-writer and director, Anthony Cousins, the allure and believability of found footage horror, influences from other horror media, and the complexities of creating effective practical effects. They explore the thematic elements of obsession, belief, and the uncanny, while also touching on Cousins' other works and the anticipated sequel to 'Frogman,' 'Frogman Returns'Frogman on TubiAnthony CousinsEvery time We Meet For Ice Cream Your Whole F*cking Face Explodes Frogman 2Digital Horror: Haunted Technologies, Network Panic and the Found Footage Phenomenon

In this episode of Horror Joy, the hosts bring on two guests for the first time: Alan Good, founder and editor of Malarkey Books, and Lauren Bolger, a horror author published by Malarkey Books. The discussion dives into the intersection of horror and joy, and both guests share their unique perspectives. Alan talks about the community support that keeps Malarkey Books afloat and the joy of seeing people engage with their work. Lauren discusses her journey as a writer, drawing inspiration from childhood experiences and various mythologies. They also delve into Lauren's upcoming book, 'The Barre Incidents,' which blends horror, sci-fi, and fantasy. Additionally, they touch on the value of small presses and the role of mythology in storytelling. The show highlights the upcoming releases from Malarkey Books and emphasizes the importance of maintaining creative hobbies into adulthood.LaurenBolger.comThe Barre Incidents by Lauren BolgerMalarkey BooksHellarkey

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Jeff and Brian discuss Zach Cregger's 2025 film 'Weapons.'The film's controversial portrayal of children as both instruments and objects of horror breaks traditional tropes by delving into issues like school shootings, societal decay, and the overarching themes of violence and isolation.Through its intricate narrative and complex characters like Aunt Gladys, who embodies both the literal and metaphorical horrors of small-town life, the hosts explore the multifaceted weaponization and manipulation of youth.They also touch on broader societal critiques, including capitalism and surveillance. The episode culminates in an analysis of the film's surprising and symbolic ending, highlighting its blend of horror and dark humor.'Weapons' exposes the dark underbelly of American suburbiaOf Course ‘Weapons' Is About SomethingThe Gruen Transfer

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff are joined by Nick Medina, author of 'Sisters of the Lost Nation,' 'Indian Burial Ground,' and the recently released novel, 'The Whistler.'Nick discusses his shared perception of finding joy in horror, reflecting on the creativity and talent within the genre.We explore his writing journey, the long road to getting published, and the significant influence of horror on his life.Additionally, Nick delves into the themes, inspirations, and background research for his latest works, emphasizing the importance of addressing social issues through horror literature.We also touch on his personal experiences and methods, especially his use of music to create atmosphere in his writing, and his intent to shed light on undervalued perspectives. The episode ends with recommended horror books and films that brought Nick joy.

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff delve into the 2013 haunted house film 'The Conjuring', directed by James Wan. They explore the film's use of horror tropes, its connections to the Amityville Horror, and its implications regarding Christian nationalism. The episode also examines Ed and Lorraine Warren's roles, the significance of the basement as a metaphorical space, and the conservative ideology underlying the movie. Along the way, they discuss the film's patient buildup of tension, the performance of masculinity, and the significance of games like hide and clap. The hosts compare their reactions to the film upon rewatching it and analyze the movie's impact on the horror genre.Paranormal StateAmityville HorrorThe Conjuring by Kevin J. Wetmore, Jr.Sola ScripturaEd and Lorraine WarrenPossession, Politics, and Patriotism: The Influence of Christian Nationalism and Evangelical Horror Tropes on The Conjuring and The Conjuring 2 by Zachary Doiron

In this episode of Meet Your Maker, hosts welcome Thomas Ha to discuss his forthcoming collection 'Uncertain Sons'.The conversation delves into Ha's perspective on the intricate relationship between horror and joy, the cathartic and connective aspects of horror literature, and the experiential overlap between fear, happiness, and grief.Ha shares insights into his creative process, his multicultural background, and the welcoming nature of the horror community.Additionally, the role of independent presses, particularly Undertow Publications, in fostering innovative horror fiction is highlighted.The episode concludes with recommendations of short story collections and films that embody the unsettling, immersive quality of weird fiction.Thomas HaUndetertow PublicationsHapa Pandemic practice: Horror fans and morbidly curious individuals are more psychological resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic by Coltan Scrivner, John A. Johnson, Jens Kieldegaard-Christiansen and Mathias Clasen

Unpacking the Cyclical Horrors of The Amityville HorrorIn this episode of 'Horror Joy,' hosts Jeff and Brian Onishi delve into the 1979 classic film 'The Amityville Horror.' The discussion explores the recurring themes of cycles in our lives and how they manifest in horror, touching on historical and contemporary issues.They analyze the unsettling story of George and Kathy Lutz, who move into a seemingly perfect house only to face demonic possession and the horrors of past violence.The conversation critiques toxic masculinity, the failures of institutions like the Roman Catholic Church, and the broader implications of isolation and community in suburban life.The episode also brings in related historical and cultural contexts, including the Satanic panic and the significance of VHS technology in disseminating horror. Despite the film's clumsiness, the hosts find joy in practical effects, character performances, and the deeper reflections horror offers on society's enduring challenges.Horror movies at home: supernatural horror, delivery systems and 1980s satanic Panic by Drew BeardEchoes of Evil: Haunted Houses and Lingering Terrors in The Amityville Horror and The Conjuring by Julia SeltnerajchThe Red Scare: Marxism, Menstruation, and Stuart Rosenberg's The Amityville Horror by Larrie Dudenhoeffer

In this episode of Horror Joy, the hosts are joined by Matthew Trifan, an emergency physician and author of the supernatural horror collection 'The Fever Called Living'. They discuss the complex relationship between horror and joy and how Trifan integrates his medical background into his horror writing. Highlights include the impact of secondhand trauma on medical professionals, the existential themes explored in his stories, the stigmatization of horror, and recommendations for readers and gamers interested in exploring the genre further.AuthorTrifan.com

Exploring Horror and Joy with Author John ChrostekIn this episode of Horror Joy, the hosts are joined by John Chrostek, a writer, editor, and designer, to discuss his recent collection, Boxcutters, and his upcoming novel, Feast of the Pale Leviathan. They delve into John's perspective on the relationship between horror and joy, the cathartic nature of horror, and its role as a tool for social protest. John also shares insights on his writing journey, his editorial work at Cold Signal literary magazine, and his experience co-owning the independent bookstore, Evening House, in Buffalo, New York. The conversation touches on the significance of independent bookstores, recent horror media recommendations, and John's thoughts on creating meaningful literature in today's socio-economic landscape.JohnChrostek.comEvening House BookshopCold SignalHobbes LeviathanThe VourdalakUncertain Sons by Thomas Ha

Exploring the Horrors of Food in 'The Menu' and 'Where the Soul Goes'In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff dive into the intricate relationship between food and horror. They are joined by author Katherine (Kat) Silva to discuss Mark Mylod's 2022 film 'The Menu' and its commentary on class, privilege, and consumption through the lens of food Horror.Silva's forthcoming book 'Where the Soul Goes,' a post-apocalyptic travel tale, is also explored, highlighting its themes of food's power to unite people even in dark times. The discussion touches on various aspects of food in Horror, the importance of performance in both cuisine and life, and the personal connections characters have with food.The episode wraps up with a joyful celebration of these works, emphasizing the inherent trust and risks related to the intimate act of eating.Kat SilvaConspicuous Consumption"Nothing in this kitchen is unplanned": Food as performance in Mark Mylod's The MenuChef's TableBanquet and the Beast: The Civilizing Role of Food in 1930s Horror Films

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff are joined by Kat Silva, author of the Deadlands Trilogy. They discuss the unique relationship between joy and horror, particularly how the horror genre can bring emotional catharsis and mental stability. Kat shares the personal journey of her writing career, starting from childhood and leading to her current work. She talks about the role of grief in her stories and the importance of music in her creative process. They also chat about Kat's fascination with trains and her upcoming projects, including a new book set to release in September. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on favorite horror media and the joy found in even the cheesiest horror movies.Kat Silva

In this episode of 'Meet Your Maker', Horror Joy welcomes Sadie Hartman, aka Mother Horror. Sadie discusses her influential work in the horror genre, including her books '101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered' and 'Feral and Hysterical.' The conversation delves into the relationship between joy and horror, how horror serves as an escape from real-life anxieties, and its political undertones. Sadie emphasizes the importance of women's voices in horror literature and shares her excitement about recent horror works that blend fiction with real historical events and political themes. The episode also touches on the emotional resilience of women and their growing influence in the horror genre. The Reformatory by Tananarive Due             Black/Southern Gothic – Sinners and the ReformatoryRingshout by P. Djèlí ClariBuffalo Hunter HunterBuffalo, Confession, Vampire an Interview with Stephen Graham JonesFeral and Hysterical by Sadie Hartmann101 Books to Read before You're Murdered by Sadie HartmannSadie Hartmann/Mother HorrorNight Worms Book Subscription Service

In this episode of Horror Joy, the hosts welcome Victoria Dalpe, author of 'Selene Shade: Resurrectionist for Hire.' Dalpe shares her insights into the intersection of joy and horror, her affinity for horror comedy, and the ethical dilemmas explored in her book. The discussion covers how horror can serve as a cathartic experience, influenced by '80s horror films, and the unique blend of genres in her work, including urban and dark fantasy. Dalpe also touches on her journey into horror, influenced by her Gothic New England upbringing, and her latest projects, including the upcoming sequel 'Loving the Dead.'Victoria Dalpe

In this episode of 'Meet Your Maker,' Brian takes a solo interview with acclaimed horror author John Langan. They talk about his works, including 'The Fishermen' and the upcoming short story collection 'Lost in the Dark.' They discuss the intricate relationship between joy and horror, the communal aspect of the horror community, and the influence of found footage films on Langan's writing. The conversation also delves into Langan's experiences with Word Horde publishing, his inspirations, and the vibrant contemporary horror landscape.

In this live-recorded episode of 'Horror Joy,' the hosts are joined by New York Times bestselling author Paul Tremblay at Next Chapter Bookshop in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. Tremblay discusses various themes in his works and answers audience questions. Topics include the relationship between joy and horror, his journey to becoming a writer, inspirations for his horror novels targeted towards younger audiences, and the significance of artistic creation amidst technological advancements. The conversation also touches on Tremblay's personal experiences and emotions tied to his works, including the film adaptation of his novel 'The Cabin at the End of the World.'Next Chapter BookshopAnotherCheck out our first episode with Paul - Horror (Un)Masked

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Jeff and Brian introduce a new podcast series titled 'Meet Your Maker,' focusing on conversations with horror creators. Their first guest is Jake Tri, the author of 'Nightmare Soup,' a crowdfunded horror anthology reminiscent of 'Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.' Jake discusses the inspiration behind 'Nightmare Soup,' the resurgence of horror popularity, and the interplay between horror and joy. The conversation also delves into nostalgia, the creation process with illustrator Andy Sciazko, and plans for future projects, including a potential 'Nightmare Soup' movie. Listeners are also treated to insights about specific stories in 'Nightmare Soup' and recommendations for other horror media.Nightmare SoupKickstarter PageAndy Sciazko ArtHorror Joy - Nostalgia Horror (Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark)00:00 Meet Jake Tri: Author of Nightmare Soup06:44 Creating Nightmare Soup12:44 Intended Audience and Inspirations19:01 Favorite Stories from Nightmare Soup22:28 Nightmare Soup's Future and Movie Plans26:34 Where to Find Nightmare Soup28:44 Recent Horror Recommendations

In this special anniversary episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff reflect on their first year of celebrating the emotional and intellectual joys of horror.They discuss their favorite moments, memorable interviews with horror figures likePaul Tremblay, S. Trimble and Stephen Graham Jones, and the impact of films like Jaws, The Blair Witch Project, and Silence of the Lambs.The episode features an in-depth conversation with Professor Kevin Wetmore, who shares his insights on the communal and personal joys of horror, the evolving nature of the genre post-9/11, and the significance of the 'final girl' trope. Wetmore also discusses his work in theater and medieval literature, emphasizing how horror brings people together and helps them confront their deepest fears.So, grab your favorite haunted blue book and settle in for some schooling. But don't fall asleep, you never know where you'll wake up. 02:06 Introducing Kevin Whitmore Jr.06:41 The Community Aspect of Horror13:41 Jaws: The Original Summer Blockbuster18:47 The Perception of Horror as a Lesser Genre24:56 Exploring Horror Post 9/1127:45 The Impact of 9/11 on Slasher Films30:41 Final Destination: Death as the Ultimate Slasher33:45 Medieval Horror and Theater38:13 The Essence of Horror in Theater and Film44:47 Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations Men, Women, and Chainsaws by Carol CloverPost 9/11 Horror In American Cinema by Kevin Wetmore Jr.Eaters of the Dead – Myths and Realities of Cannibal Monsters by Kevin Wetmore, Jr.Kevin Wetmore, Jr.The Worm at the Core – The Role of Death in Life by Sheldon Solomon, Jeff Greenberg, and Tom PyszczynskiWhen the Wolf Comes Home by Nat CassidyQui Nguyen 

Join your favorite Horror podcasters as they introduce 'Meet Your Maker,' a new series from Horror Joy. This show is dedicated to interviewing some of the best-known and emerging Horror authors, including Clay McLeod Chapman, Victoria Dalpe, Sadie Hartmann (AKA Mother Horror), John Langan, Thomas Ha, Jake Tri, Kat Silva, and many more. Each 30-minute episode will explore new books, stories, and films, offering fans weekly content filled with more horror and joy.

In this episode of Horror Joy, we turn back time to solve the puzzle of the first three films of the Final Destination franchise, exploring the ways they engage with the horrors of the new millennium, its politics, and its technologies. The series' horrors are doubled when we realize that the first film starts off with an exploding plane, uncannily anticipating the 9/11 terrorist attacks that fundamentally reshaped the United States of America, the Middle East, and the geopolitics of never-ending surveillance due to the specter of terrorism.They discuss:·      How these films reflect the anxieties of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, including the twin specters of Y2K and the 9/11 terrorist attacks.·      How the themes of technology, societal change, and existential dread, show up differently in each film·      The role of Tony Todd's (Bludworth) character as a potential personification of death·      And reflect on how the trilogy evolved into a commentary on the modern human condition.So, charge your camera batteries and death proof your rusty fishing hooks because the roller coaster is about to leave the station. It's your last chance to get off the ride. But don't worry, we'll remember your place in line.William Stevenson. "Late Slasher: Remediation to Premediation in Urban Legend, Gossip, and Final Destination."Danse MacabreCamus - The Myth of SisyphusHeidegger - Being and Time

In this episode of 'Horror Joy,' hosts Brian and Jeff delve into the 2023 anthology Never Whistle at Night, edited by Shane Hawk and Theodore C. Van Alst Jr. This collection, featuring indigenous dark fiction, navigates the intersections of horror, colonization, and representation.We discuss:·      The impact of these stories both in the classroom and as a means of broadening perspectives·      Key stories such as 'White Hills,' 'The Ones Who Killed Us,' and 'Navajos Don't Wear Elk Teeth,'·      The importance of blood and the construction of identity·      The joy and complexity found in these narrativesThese stories navigate the tension of imagined and real worlds, mortals and monsters, blood and identity, and community and isolation. They call us to reconsider our preconceptions of the world, and they remind us that all of us (in the United States) occupy stolen lands. So, keep your lips from whistling and settle into the comfortably uncomfortable worlds of these stories. But don't lose track of the trail. While this may be an invitation, that doesn't necessarily mean it's safe. Indigenous Futurisms and Decolonial Horror: An Interview with Rebecca Roanhorse by Madelyn Marie SchoonoverOne drop rulePlessy V. FergusonIndigenous Horror by Heather HallOrientalism by Edward Said

Right now in the US, it feels like we're living in a haunted house of historical racial horrors, with "DEI" being demonized and books banned. Southern and Black Gothic literature, however, bravely uncover these past atrocities and their ongoing impact.On this Horror Joy episode, we welcome author Briana N. Cox to explore Black/Southern Horror. First, we bite into Ryan Coogler's 2025 hit Sinners, which uses vampiric imagery to explore race, greed, music, and time. Then, we turn to Tananarive Due's 2023 masterpiece, The Reformatory. Based on the real-life Dozier School for Boys, it follows young Robert Stephens, Jr. through a thinly veiled juvenile prison, using exaggerated sentences, "haints," and a KKK siege to connect slavery, Jim Crow, and incarceration.Like English Gothic, Black/Southern Gothic uses crumbling infrastructure and outdated systems, replacing castles with plantations and secret rooms with prison control mechanisms. As Bridget M. Marshall notes, these genres share "creepy buildings, mysterious landscapes, unhealthy obsessions with the past, revelations of dark secrets, acts of violence, and troubled mental states." Horror is always political, but Black/Southern Gothic highlights how we're all haunted by our collective past.Join us to find joy and heartbreak in these troubling histories and horrific tales. Just remember: don't be seduced by every song, and always, ALWAYS, fight the KKK!Black Bodies, White Gazes by George YancyThe Return of the Repressed: The Subprime Haunted House by Jaleesa Rena HarrisBriana N. CoxThe Moonshot InitiativePedroParo2“Tilt the mirror”: An Interview with Tananarive Due