Welcome to Horror

Well sod me sideways; it's a cheeky bonus episode from Welcome To Horror! Adam and Lee spend time in the kitchen with the magisterial Mr Vincent Price, and take a look at his 1971 Thames TV series “Cooking Price-Wise”. A truly delightful show in which VP demonstrates his culinary prowess, knowledge and love of good food, with a series of delicious treats you can make at home. There's no spoilers for a cookery show, so you can dive right in, but it's a definite recommendation for fans of the great man. Stick your apron on, clasp a wooden spoon and join us!

It's Hammer Time, and we're looking at some of the more under-appreciated output from The Studio That Dripped Blood”; first up it's 1966's “The Witches” (aka “The Devil's Own”). A film in which a headmaster cosplaying as a priest is seen as a harmless quirk; the local butcher puts paid to the adage “laugh and the whole world laughs with you.”; and your choice of drinks is gin, gin or more gin. A box office failure; “The Witches” was not considered a worthy part of Hammer's horror output, languishing for decades as a mere footnote to both the story of Hammer Films, and the career of star Joan Fontaine. Thankfully, that reputation has shifted with time, as later generations have rediscovered it. The story is a blueprint for folk horror, whilst predating those movies that would come to define the genre and Quatermass creator Nigel Kneale's subtlety witty script means this feels a lot more fresh and modern than some of the more melodramatic gothic horrors the studio produced, with a set of strong female characters driving the narrative. Whilst some may find the heavily choreographed climatic ceremony comical, if the movie has drawn you in, these sequences can actually be eerily mesmerising. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Welcome To Horror Presents: “The We Have Been Watching Invasion of Earth”. It's time for our semi-regular round up of all the entertainments we've been sticking into our brains for the past few weeks (and no laughing at the word “semi” please, we're all grown ups). This time round there's quite an international flavour as we discuss Soviet masterpiece “Viy” (1967); 2 movies from South Korea in modern classic “Train to Busan” (2016) and the “Tucker & Dale…” reimagining “Handsome Guys” (2024); fantastic Norwegian comedy “Troll Hunter” (2010); and the breathtaking 1922 Danish/Swedish silent documentary “Häxan” (and it's William Burroughs narrated 1968 version, “Witchcraft Through the Ages”). We also cover hit podcast “Broken Veil” (2025), 1982's “The Slumber Party Massacre”; “Hellboy: The Crooked Man” and “The Book of the Witch” (both 2024). Plus there are honourable mentions for “Battle Beyond the Stars”; and the anthology shows “Tales of Unease” and “Armchair Thriller”. There should be no need to prep for this ep, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

We're back in the deep dark woods for 2010 horror comedy “Tucker & Dale Vs Evil”. A film in which we learn the pitfalls of a “fixer-upper” for the first-time buyer; observe the dangers of mixing chainsaws with bees; and you can actively hate the clueless teens (even more so than usual). Based on a simple but hilarious premise; “Tucker & Dale…” manages to sustain it for pretty much the whole of its runtime, with a necessary swing into more familiar horror territory for the last act. The heart of the film lays with its (wonderfully portrayed) titular characters; a refreshingly sweet, honest and hilarious double act, who you cannot help but love and root for as they blunder through an increasingly ludicrous series of coincidences and misunderstandings. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's time to dig out your 70s glam hits and make weird proclamations in your best falsetto as we try on Osgood Perkin's “Longlegs”. A film in which T.Rex are finally released from the tyranny of “Billy Elliot”; the devil is in the details (usually the corner) and nothing says happy Birthday like a shrieking man putting his balls into your head. Riffing on the 90s idea of the serial killer film - a police procedural dressed up as a horror film - Longlegs takes a horror film and dresses it up a a police procedural, to incredible effect. With a tantalising mythology of its own, which seems to be akin to that in Perkin's earlier “The Blackcoat's Daughter”, plus a cast all bringing their A game, this moody and chilling thriller rightly did excellent work at the box office. This success also came through an extremely well-designed promo campaign, and word of mouth that reached far beyond the horror community, meaning this deliberately weird and uncomfortable film is practically mainstream, without any apparent concession to get there. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's time to get deep, as we are joined by previous guest Dani, for Neil Marshall's “The Descent”. A film in which we learn how to give a lemon an orgasm; that spelunking is not an orthodox method of grief counselling; and that there's always one fucker who won't stay with the group, even if you tell them to! Marshall's superb follow up to his debut “Dog Soldiers”, whilst often mentioned by fans and in lists of lesser-known films to see, really deserves to take its place as an acknowledged classic of the genre. The building claustrophobic dread, vicious injuries and the gradual disintegration of the team's relationship make for a stunning first half, with the emergence of the monsters almost a relief from these all too real horrors. The cast are simply outstanding; and this still, remarkably, remains an outlier as an almost exclusively female-led horror film, 20 years later. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's time to unleash some absolute mania, as we experience the multiple derangements of Nobuhiko Ôbayashi's “Hausu” (aka “House”). A film in which we learn the best way to store a watermelon; the worst way to store futons; and that your legs can live to fight another day, even if the rest of you has been devoured. Like a food-colouring fuelled half remembrance of 60s pop group films fused to the most avant-guard of haunted house movies, with disturbing imagery drawn from the director's young daughter, and nothing but torment and despair for our likeable young protagonists, “Hausu” should not work. However, Ôbayashi's vision, style and flair make this a joyous dive headlong into a reality that the word surreal barely does justice to. It's relentless energy and charm make for a real gem, that balances humour with the macabre - the switch halfway through from teen summer break to crazed nightmare barely dents its propulsive fun, meaning that the viewer comes away with a giddy contact high of absurdist joy. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

With the magnificent Horror-on-Sea film festival just gone, we look back on the day we attended (Saturday 18th) and the delights we saw there. As well as the usual amazing atmosphere, we experienced 2 features on our flying visit - “Hell Hole” from directors Toby Poser and John Adams, and the world premiere of anthology sequel “Video Shop Tales of Terror 2: Lust and Revenge”! Full disclosure, Lee and Adam both appear in VSTOT2 (in very blink and you'll miss ‘em supporting roles), so their view of the film maybe somewhat skewed. We managed to get them out of their star dressing rooms and away from their adoring fans just long enough to also get some insights into the time they spent on set. We also discuss the short films “The Camping Dead” and “Open Your Eyes”. We will aim to remain spoiler free as these are fresh new films, but also suggest you check out all of these works as/when you get the opportunity. No prep needed for this ep - just join us!

Welcome To Horror Presents: “The Casebook of We Have Been Watching”. To kick off the new year, it's time for another round up of the team's recent eye-musings. This episode we pay close attention to Robert Eggers' “Nosferatu” (which, at time of recording, Adam and Chris had seen) and the BBC's latest Ghost Story for Christmas: “Woman of Stone (which, at time of recording, Adam and Lee had seen). We also touch upon Disney's “The Black Cauldron” (1985); Shudder's “To Fire You Come At Last” and “Black Cab” (both 2024); “Dr Terrible's House of Horrible” (2001); the first episode of “Squid Game” series 2; “The Faculty” (1998); “Boys From County Hell” (2020) and animated anthology series “Red Iron Road”. No need to prep for this ep, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

Christmas has been and gone, it's roast dinner farts lingering like slush on the street as we pitch towards New Year's Eve, and our extended festive holiday in New York draws to an end with “Ghostbusters II”. A film in which Nancy Spungen predicts the end of days; Bill Murray seeks psychiatric help from his own brother; and, once more, New York is portrayed as a festering hotbed of aggression, with a toxic sludge running beneath its streets. Much like the subject of our previous episode - “Ghostbusters II” came too late to ride the seismic wave of popularity the original generated. Unlike “Gremlins 2”, however, it doesn't particularly offer anything new, with many noting the similar story beats to the first film. Oddly for a tale about negative emotions feeding supernatural events, it's also softer and less cynical in its outlook, presumably part of efforts to aim it more for the kids who had unexpectedly embraced the original. For those of us young enough, it still holds an affectionate place in our hearts as we finally got more “proper” Ghostbusters, but, as far as the studio was concerned, this failed to catch the lightning a second time, and any further talk of sequels were shelved for nearly thirty years. Whist not a patch on the original, but with interesting moments, good gags, exemplary effects and great additions to an already perfect cast, “Ghostbusters II” doesn't deserve the poor reputation it's had over the years. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's part 3 of our ‘New York' marathon and we're in up in the skyscrapers for “Gremlins 2: The New Batch”. A film in which John Glover portrays a thinly veiled Donald Trump in a far more sympathetic light than would be possible these days; Hulk Hogan is revealed to be younger than any of our hosts; and Christopher Lee has already got rabies. The belated sequel to Joe Dante's original failed to ignite the box office, and seems to have a annoyed many fans of that first film, possibly for the crime of trying to be a bit different, but we find it impossible to not get swept up in the glorious glee with which the titular monsters, and their director, wreak havoc with this movie. Unfettered from the control of his producers, Dante ramps up everything to the point of absurdity, channeling his love of Looney Tunes (including a specially produced Bugs and Daffy intro from the mighty Chuck Jones) with satirical swipes at Corporate culture, the diminishing returns of sequels, and postmodern references to the first film. Packed with cameos and references, this is a non-stop assault, which manages to be both utterly daft and really smart all at once. Watch (re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's part 2 of our ‘New York' series - the city so nice they podcasted about it twice - and we finally get to “Ghostbusters”. A film in which… well, it's “Ghostbusters”. Surely you've seen it? The original and still best; whatever your take on the films that followed; this is a stone cold 100% classic. With visual effects and character comedy that (pretty much) stand up to this day, it surely counts as one of the finest celebrations of the Big Apple as ever put on the silver screen. A true family film (if you ignore to supernatural blowie) with jokes for the adults, and rip-roaring adventure for the kids, it's those kids that it first entranced who are now spearheading the renewed interest and revival of the franchise . With that design classic of a logo and Ray Parker Jr.'s ear worm title song simply everywhere, 1984 belonged to the Ghostbusters (despite the release of a number of other incredible films that year) and it was, to quote Dr Peter Venkman, “a legitimate phenomenon”. Watch (or, more likely, re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's part 1 of our ‘New York' series, and we take a slow boat to the Big Apple with “Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan”. A film in which a group of students get ripped off when they hire a “cruise ship”; New York City is a seething cesspool of crime and toxic waste; and Kane Hodder gets to pre-emptively leather the bloke who eventually nicked his job. “Jason Takes Manhattan” has our hockey-masked antihero bludgeneoning his way through yet another group of annoying teens; whilst also ticking off other touchstones of the “Friday…” franchise, such as an over-lit flashback and even a crazy harbinger. Despite this, the film somehow lacks something, maybe it's the fact that we take far too long to get to NYC, or that, by this point, we've seen it all once too often. However, like most good slasher films, as a party movie with friends and/or your recreational substance of choice, it's still a lot of daft fun. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us

Welcome To Horror Presents: “The Return of We Have Been Watching”. Just in time for Halloween (or maybe just after, depending on the schedule) here's a round up of all the spooky shit the WTH team have been shoving up their brains. This episode we discuss “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” (2024); “Tucker & Dale Vs Evil” (2010); Abattoir Fermé's “Hotel Poseidon”(2021); “Apartment 7A” (2024); “The Descent” (2005); “Eat Locals” (2017); “Salem's Lot” (2024); and the podcast series “The Department of Midnight” and “Baron Sodor's Theatre of the Doomed” (thanks to Joe Watson for that one). Along the way, Chris basically plans our schedule for the next 6 months, and we have the first (and probably last) Welcome To Horror Quiz! Been listening for a while? Pit your knowledge of the show against two of the hosts (who will be judged accordingly). No need to prep for this ep, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

It's time to act like professional gravy tasters and take stock. For over 200 episodes, Chris has been exposed to all manner of horrors by Lee and Adam, and it now feels like high time that the Padawan has achieved the rank of master, and is granted a place on the council (because we know how it plays out if we don't). A little look back over the span of Welcome To Horror up to the present; we hope this is a nice summary of Chris's journey through horror. No homework needed, although it may be a weird place to start your own journey with the podcast, but everyone's welcome so join us.

It's part 2 of our ‘Behind the scenes' series, and we spend some time in the “Shadow of the Vampire”. A film in which we learn that Count Orlok was a pioneer of ASMR videos; a ferret is no substitute for a fresh young cameraman; and Cary Elwes can do a pitch perfect impression of Jürgen Prochnow. A wonderful blur of fact and fiction in which FW Murnau employs a real vampire to portray the lead in the silent classic “Nosferatu”, this is both a darkly comic slice of pseudo-history and a satire on the filmmaking process; with the driven director becoming an amoral monster, and his monster becoming a precious diva. An absolutely perfect cast bring this vision to life, with beautiful cinematography and loving recreations of the sublime original. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Adam's back in the Library with a bonus episode of extra gubbins left over from our recent episode on “Late Night With The Devil” As always, we recommend you listen to our main episode (number 207) first, before diving into this swirling hypno-disc of fact. We hope you enjoy this little transmission from the Welcome To Horror Fact Library.

We go back in time to remember a Halloween past, and become embroiled in a diabolical ratings war as we watch “Late Night With The Devil”. A film in which we learn that Scoleciphobia and Hypnosis are a very potent mix for light entertainment; that a TV producer can invoke more terror than an actual demon; and that the owls are not what they seem. Drawing from a number of real-life sources for its world-building; along with a pitch perfect recreation of 70s American TV, this film, certainly initially, could easily pass for a real piece of archive television. The writer/director team of brothers Cameron and Colin Cairnes have assembled a cast and crew who absolutely bring their fantastic vision to life, with the linchpin being David Dastmalchian's spot-on performance; his Jack Delroy has both the superficial charm and charisma of his on-screen persona, as well being a very real and genuine flawed human when the cameras are off. This film surely deserves to become a classic, its richness bears repeated viewing, and is already spawning multiple discussions over both its influences, and its own mythology. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's a bit of a different ep this week as Chris and Adam discuss (in a hopefully mostly spoiler-free way) the brand new film from Mattioli Productions; “Guys At Parties Like It”, streaming now on Tubi and Apple TV. “Guys At Parties Like It” focuses on a College Fraternity Party; where the men collectively revel in a crucible of pathetic hazing rituals and toxic masculinity, which results in one targeted woman literally fighting for her life. Events spiral out of control for everyone, with characters revealing either hidden reserves of fortitude or the basest of vile instincts. This is a sometimes uncomfortable watch in terms of subject matter, with some realistically unpleasant characters who having you hotly anticipating their comeuppance. Despite some story beats that may trip close to cliche, this independent feature is shot with a real cinematic polish and flair that belies its small budget, with some incredible gore effects that really add to the horror. This film from directing team Colton David and Micah Coate, described as “a #metoo inspired horror” feels like a response or antidote to those 80s frat comedies that really don't play in the modern climate. A massive thank you to AJ Mattioli, owner of Mattioli Productions, for reaching out and giving us the chance to view this; check out their website www.mattioliproductions.com for more films and news.

Welcome To Horror Presents: “The Memoirs of We Have Been Watching”. It's been a little while - but here's one of our regular instalments of “We Have Been Watching”, in which we discuss all our extracurricular viewing. This ep covers “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire”; Jonathan Glazer's “Under the Skin”; Gareth Tunley's “The Ghoul” (2016); a “Nightmare on Elm Street” double bill of Part 2 “Freddy's Revenge” and Part 3 “Dream Warriors”; an Alfred Hitchcock triple bill of “Rope”; “The Birds” and “Rear Window”; “Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose”; The TV series of “Interview with the Vampire”; 2011 French horror “Livid” (aka “Livide”); and Tigon classic “The Sorcerers”. No need to prep for this ep, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

Here's Adam with a bonus episode of all the factoids and thingamajigs we didn't quite get to on our recent “Sightseers” episode. We recommend you listen to our main episode (number 204) first, before diving into this cooling yet petrifying well of information. Hope you enjoy this little transmission from the Welcome To Horror Fact Library.

It's time for that summer break you deserve, as we turn our attention to Lady Jennifer's Birthday choice - Ben Wheatley's magnificent “Sightseers”. A film which teaches you that G.B.H. stands for Great British Holiday; that dogs and knitting don't mix; and that, at a push, faecal matter can be an interesting alternative to lipstick. The minds of writers/stars Alice Lowe and Steve Oram blend perfectly with director Ben Wheatley's cinematic (and sometimes brutal) vision in this pitch black comedy that pulls no punches; transposing the serial killer road movie over the mundanity of a pair of British misfits on a camping holiday. A film for anyone who knows that true horror is being trapped in a caravan, having a row, in the pouring rain. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

We're taking a look at another “locally-sourced” horror; the time-tangled psychedelic noir that is “Burnt Flowers” from Director/Writer/Actor Michael Fausti. Spanning across 3 eras, a Police Detective on a missing person's case in the 90s finds it somehow links to a series of unsolved murders around the shady world of 60s gangland, and also to her own family past. As this is a new film that's still making waves at various Festivals, this episode is in two stages; first off a general discussion, hopefully giving you an idea of what the film is like, and then we'll give you fair warning before moving into spoilers. This is a whole-hearted recommended watch from the Welcome To Horror team, and if you get the chance, we urge you to check it out. With a magnificent cast, a haunting premise and a cinematic look and flair that surpasses it's small budget and then some; this is a real treat for seekers of the smart and strange in horror. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's taken far too long, but here we go with The Chiodo Brothers' “Killer Klowns From Outer Space”. A film in which Dean Wormer is still having trouble with disrespectful young punks; we discover quite how bad popcorn can be for your health; and reveal the safest place to hide in an ice cream van, in the event of an explosion. A perennial of the video shop, and many a young horror fan's gateway to the genre; “Killer Klowns…” still looks magnificent, mostly due to the Chiodo Brothers' mastery of practical effects and unique style. Embracing its B-Movie premise (it's similarities to “The Blob” are marked), with performances to match; this film knows its ridiculous and revels in it's cartoonish silliness. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

We turn our attention to a cracking little historical horror from Actor, Director, Writer (and all round top bloke) Andrew Elias. “Tales From The Great War” begins with 4 British soldiers stationed in the trenches of the Western Front being “volunteered” for a mission behind German lines, where, it soon transpires, things more terrible than the enemy are stalking the blasted landscape. The narrative shifts in time at various points to give us the separate back stories of how these individuals ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time; before tying all of them together. This episode is in two stages, at first we attempt to give a flavour of what to expect and then we'll warn you as we move into spoiler territory. Be under no doubt, we all highly recommend you seek this film out (it is currently available for rent on Amazon) - it's small budget belies its quality and polish, with a strong script and an excellent cast (including some familiar faces) this is a real gem, that manages to pack more into its 60 minute run time than some movies manage in 3 hours. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's our 200th episode (well, it's actually our 246th, but who's counting?) and to celebrate we're holding the inaugural Welcome To Horror Hall of Fame Awards (or “Welkies” as all the cool kids are calling them). Lee, Chris and Adam have chosen favourites from 4 categories - best trope, best performance, best film and best cinema experience. No prep needed here, just join us for the ceremony live from Essex's glittering west end, and see if you agree with our choices.

Here's Adam with a bonus episode of all the facts and gubbins we didn't quite get to on our “The World's End” episode. We recommend that you listen to our main episode (number 199!) first, before diving into this moras of info; and take a shot every time he manages to crowbar in a mention of Doctor Who. We hope you enjoy this little transmission from the Welcome To Horror Fact Library

It's the conclusion of our watch through of Edgar Wright's Cornetto Trilogy as we reach “The World's End”. A film in which we learn what that thing above the door is called; another Bond gets the chance at some classy villainy; and we can all acknowledge that the Sisters of Mercy are fucking awesome. The Blood and Ice Cream Trilogy ends by combining the story of five school friends growing apart, with a sci-fi conspiracy of body-snatching alien invaders. There's a few new faces in the cast, but essentially this is a victory lap for many of those we've seen before. Whilst it may be the lesser of the three films, that's still no slight when you consider the quality of the first two. Still funny, still wonderfully executed, and possibly the best way to round things off, this is still great movie, even if it doesn't quite match the dizzying heights of its predecessors. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Adam brings us another bonus episode of random facts and things about “Hot Fuzz” that we didn't quite get round to on our main episode. This time round he overuses the word “stalwart” and, once again, recommends you listen to the main episode first! We hope you enjoy this little transmission from the Welcome To Horror Fact Library

It's part 2 of Edgar Wright's Cornetto Trilogy, which means we get to make a hot fuss about Hot Fuzz! A film which features four Oscar winners, only two of whom are actually credited; James Bond retrospectively auditioning to be a Columbo villain; and even if we don't see a dog look up, we do see a Hound say “Yarp”. Whilst “Hot Fuzz” is an exceedingly British spin on the very American sub genre of the buddy cop action movie; it also borders fantastically into the familiar trappings of folk horror; with our hero moving to an insular village of spiteful Daily Mail readers, willing to sacrifice anyone and everyone for “the greater good.” With some returnees from “Shaun of the Dead”, along with more 90s/00s comedy stalwarts and a whole host of distinguished British characters actors; this movie maintains the momentum of its predecessor without ever being in its shadow, and, most importantly, is as funny as fuck. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Welcome To Horror - 6 Feet Deeper: “Shaun of the Dead” Here's a little bonus episode from Adam of facts and things that we didn't quite get round to on our main episode on Shaun of the Dead. He apologises in advance for over use of the word “fantastic”, and warns that you should definitely listen to our main episode first, as this is a collection of random stuff that was thrown up whilst researching the film. This may become a semi-regular addition to the main show in those circumstances that we have too much information to get through on an episode, so hope you enjoy this little transmission from the Welcome To Horror Fact Library.

As Johnny Vegas once said - “Who's ready for ice cream?” After nearly 200 episodes, we're finally getting round to Edgar Wright's Cornetto Trilogy, kicking off with the absolute belter that is 2004's “Shaun of the Dead”. A film which features more dead celebrities than Austin Powers' address book; more cameos than a karaoke machine stuck on “Word Up”; and dares to ask the eternal question about whether or not dogs can look up. Having honed their cinematic flair with the essential turn-of-the-century sitcom “Spaced”; Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg took their love of Romero's Living Dead Trilogy (as it was then); melded it with British RomCom mundanity and created probably the best horror comedy hybrid since “An American Werewolf in London”; with scares, gore and laughs in equal measure, plus an absolute genuine heart. Twenty years on, this film remains a high watermark of British Horror and British Comedy, its status as a classic was never in doubt from day one. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Welcome To Horror Presents: “The Adventures of We Have Been Watching”. Once again it's time for the team to spurt forth with their brain translators to inform you of their extra curricular eye feasting. Items explored include “Twin Peaks - Fire Walk With Me”; Rod Serling's “The Night Gallery”; Glenn Danzig's “Death Rider in the House of Vampires”; Cecelia Condit's creepily surreal short “Possibly in Michigan”; 2018 British Horror Comedy “Book of Monsters”; and Shudder's “The 101 Scariest Horror Movie Moments of All Time”. No prep needed, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

In the second half of our Not For Everyone Podcast recommendations, we're watching another Stephen King adaptation - 2003's “Dreamcatcher”. A film in which Morgan Freeman's eyebrows are designed to stop pigeons nesting; Damian Lewis auditions to play the Joker as Hugh Laurie; and Jason Lee just needs to leave those fucking toothpicks where they are! For a film about killer worms that burrow into your arse; “Dreamcatcher” has a remarkably glossy and expensive look, with a cast of big names. Written by King whilst high on painkillers, the story has a lot of similarities with his classic “It”, even down to its fictional location. Somehow though, the film manages to either take itself too seriously or not seriously enough, and may have been improved for amping up the (toilet) humour of the premise. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

As a follow up to our Christmas Crossover with our Kurt Army Cousins, The Not For Everyone Podcast, we decided to take a look at two of the Stephen King adaptations that were mentioned, but unseen by us. First up is George A Romero's “The Dark Half”; a film in which we learn that pure, undiluted evil must be dressed like Tom Waits; that Henry (Portrait of a Serial Killer) has even less idea of the law when on the other side of a police badge; and that Eleanor Lance escaped from Hill House to become pipe smoker of the year (1993). A faithful adaptation of King's take on his own outing as the author Richard Bachman, this is a superior slice of 90s horror, reuniting King with Romero, with a superb cast backed up by incredible practical and visual effects that still hold up today. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us

Welcome to Horror bring you another filmmaker interview! Lee sits down with James Hood, writer and director of “Caretaker”, the haunting and enigmatic film that won Best Short Film at this year's Romford Horror Film Festival. Massive thanks to James for his time, and for giving us the opportunity to view “caretaker”, the episode also comes with a brief spoiler free review from the team as well, and we urge you to seek this film out now! Find James at Instagram: james_w_hood Letterboxd: https://boxd.it/ffeD

Welcome To Horror Episode 192 is a round up of our visit to this year's Romford Horror Film Festival. We had an excellent time on our first visit to the festival. We got to see two amazing features - “The Pocket Film of Superstitions” and “How To Kill Monsters”, (which went on to win several awards at the festival, including best director and best actress). We give spoiler-free reviews of these features, as well as the shorts “Collection Only” and “Kin”, and talk about the festival as a whole, and some of the lovely people we met there; such as author, actor and podcaster Lauren Jane Barnett, director Tony Mardon and actor Ross Sambridge. This episode is (hopefully) spoiler free, but with (likely) swearing. Join us!

The BAMPIRE Interview Bit of a change this episode; Lee and Adam chat with filmmakers Zoe Wassman and Malachite Saaquya about their movie “Bampire”, which they are in the process of crowdfunding. Bampire is a 90s-set horror comedy, introducing a brand new element to vampire lore - vampires who morph into deer! Combining live action with practical effects and animation - it's described as “Evil Dead 2” meets “Roger Rabbit”. It has a cast including genre stalwart Diane Franklin, “The Room”'s Greg Sestero and the legendary “Lloyd Kaufman”; animation from Josh Stifter; visual effects by the award winning Trysta Kelley; and Taylor Morden in the director's chair. Having completed filming, the guys are now looking to raise the funds required for post production. As you will hear, Zoe and Malakhai's passion and love for this project is infectious, they really want to get this out there, and from what we've seen of the amazing footage they have, so do we!Have a listen, and go to bampiremovie.com which will take you straight to their Indiegogo page, there you'll see a teaser and find out exactly what you can do to help this movie get out there, and pick up some lovely merch too! Support independent film.

Welcome To Horror Presents: “We Have Been Watching And The Monster From Hell”. It's time, faithful listeners, for the WTH team to have another one of our fireside chats about our inter-schedule viewing, and this time we're joined by special guest; Lady Jennifer (her motivation: it's half term and she was bored). This episode we discuss 70s anthology series “Thriller”, 1959's “Horrors of the Black Museum”, Channel Four's “Don't Hug Me I'm Scared”, Hammer's “Scars of Dracula” and “Taste the Blood of Dracula”, 2014's “It Follows”, 2023's Ghost Story for Christmas “Lot No. 249” and the brilliant series “Wellington Paranormal” which now has a podcast. No prep needed, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

We present a spoiler free look at “The Group”, the debut feature of director William Higo. A group meeting for (mostly) recovering addicts is suddenly hijacked by an unknown man, who conducts his own brutal group therapy session, down the barrel of a gun. Secrets are exposed, truths confronted and loyalties are torn and formed as the situation reaches boiling point. A taut thriller set in one location, this film is so much more assuredly cinematic than those restrictions may suggest, and it succeeds in being a tense and intriguing ride. The small cast work wonders with a smart and unflinching script, holding the viewer in their seat for the film's duration. A big thank you to Will Higo for reaching out to us (via longtime friend of the show Tony Wash) and allowing us to view this excellent thriller. Having wowed at festivals, “The Group” is available in the US, and coming soon in the UK, and we urge you to seek it out! For our US listeners The Group is available on: Indemand Dish Directv Vudu https://www.vudu.com/content/browse/details/The-Group/2716039 Hoopla https://www.hoopladigital.com/movie/the-group-jennifer-aries/16479645 Microsoft link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/the-group/8d6kgwxxkw2f?activetab=pivot%3aoverviewtab Apple link, which should open the app: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/the-group/umc.cmc.2fopy9nvq50zdk3drpyfze72c

It's the next film in our Countycide season, and today we go down to the woods for a big surprise, with 2006's “Severance”, from director Christopher Smith. A film in which the arrival of a gang of brutal, sadistic murderers relieves the true horror of an office team-building weekend; Lord Percy steps in something rather nasty; and Danny Dyer provides niche observational humour for all the ‘shroom heads in the audience. Another under appreciated film from the man who brought us high-seas time twister “Triangle”, “Severance”, despite its once ubiquity in secondhand shop DVD racks, seems to have also fallen out of sight, which is a real shame. It has a strong cast portraying believable, genuinely funny, characters (whether the character knows it or not) evoking perfectly that mismatch of work colleagues thrown together outside of office hours. With a genuinely nasty streak and scenes of gore and murder that would be much more gruelling in a straight narrative, and a lovely playful mixing of perspectives; this film should be rightly remembered and embraced by more fans of the fusion of comedy and horror. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

It's the new year, so it's time get some fresh air and take a rejuvenating break in our Countrycide season. First up is 2008's “The Cottage”, a film in which Pinhead has joined the local neighbourhood watch; Gollum proves to be related to a large number of the inhabitants of Royston Vasey; and Spudgun is a pain in the arse who fucks up everything he touches. The surprise follow up to director Paul Andrew Williams' gritty debut “London To Brighton”, “The Cottage” came out during that brief flowering of British comedy horror that followed in the wake of “Shaun of the Dead”, and, like a lot of films from that period, appears to have been unjustly forgotten. It starts up as hilarious crime caper with a small group of well realised and brilliantly portrayed characters, only to perform a mid-point rug pull as that story suddenly crashes headlong into a slasher film. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

And we're back like a vertebrae! Two worlds collide and we present “Welcome To Everyone: We Three Kings”. The Not For Everyone and Welcome To Horror podcasts have teamed up again for what the cool kids are definitely still calling the most ambitious crossover event in history. It's Christmas; so we bring you “We Three Kings”- where we each choose our top 3 Stephen King adaptations. Between double-thinking each other's lists and a few participants wilfully ignoring the assignment, this is a truly eclectic selection of the King on screen. A Christmas present from the people who brought you the unique podcast idea of squabbling man children talking about films. Enjoy.

And so we conclude our festive season of ‘Silent Nights' by going back even further, for the magnificent “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari”. A film in which we witness possibly the worst interior design for a psychiatric hospital; the best (and only correct) response to petty local bureaucracy and we all empathise with a man who sleeps for 23 years and still wakes up knackered. If the point of German Expressionism was to emphasise and represent the internal emotional state over a depiction of actual reality - “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” is an absolute blueprint of how to do it. A triumph of ingenuity and flair over budgetary restrictions, “… Caligari” creates its own complete world that immerses the audience. However, this is not mere style over substance, with a convoluted plot featuring many a twist, making for a film that feels fresher and more modern than a lot of what would come after it. A perennial influence to this day, from Tim Burton to Rob Zombie and the Laika animation studio, this unique film may have its homages and imitators; but the original is never diminished, retaining its power over a century later. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid 103 year-old spoilers and join us.

It's nearly Christmas; so we're bringing you some ‘Silent Nights' - first up is 1922's beautifully sinister “Nosferatu - A Symphony of Horror”. A film in which we learn the very worst way to cut a slice of bread; that nothing looks more confused than a striped hyena in a German forest; and that when your manager finishes every sentence with an insane cackle, it's probably time to check out your other employment options. This silent occult masterpiece still manages to feel more modern and pacy than a lot of the talkies that followed over the next few decades, and it's imagery remains burned into the collective unconscious. The first feature-length adaptation of “Dracula”, it offers enough variation from its source material to become a story in its own right - with the spectre of plague and contagion married to the concept of the vampire in a way that chills in the light of our own recent history. It's Count Orlok is far removed from the suave romantic figure screen Dracula would become; instead being a near folkloric creature from the other side of the forest, and all the more disturbing for it. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid 101 year-old spoilers and join us.

It's the second film of our “In Space, No One Can Hear You Jump The Shark” double bill, and for those of you who thought “Jason X” was bad; we present “Leprechaun 4: In Space”. A film in which Lieutenant Gruber turns from Davros into a giant spider (no doubt preventing him from fitting into his little tank); Heidi from “Tool Time” literally makes a man's penis explode; and Warwick Davis finally gets his own Lightsaber. The fourth entry into the “Leprechaun” franchise jets off into outer space but, ironically, mostly fails to land. With an uneven tone, and not all cast and crew apparently in on the joke; this veers from mild amusement to mild bemusement. With primitive CGI disowned by the director, and some surprisingly good make up, this is a movie that will only improve depending on your level of inebriation, and the good company you view it with. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

In space, no one can hear you jump the shark. We turn our attention to a couple of horror franchises that looked to stars for (questionable?) inspiration. First off is 2002's “Jason X” - a film in which we learn that you'd better enjoy the current season of Ice Hockey as it's getting banned next year; that those newfangled magnetic nipples are not all they're cracked up to be; and that David Cronenberg likes them soft. The tenth instalment in the Friday the 13th series sees a complete departure in location, but retains the essential core of a group of extremely stupid and annoying people getting killed in elaborate ways. Whilst this film divided fans, with many considering it the worst of the series, it does at least seem to have been made with a view to rejuvenating a flagging premise, with a tongue-in-cheek attitude, and an awareness of just how ridiculous it all is. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Welcome To Horror Presents: “The Horror of We Have Been Watching”. Yes, gentle listener, it's the usual round up of extracurricular viewing by the WTH team. This time around we talk about “Ex Machina”; “The Haunted Mansion” (2023); “Messiah of Evil”; “Children of the Stones”; “Talk to Me”; “Psychoville”; new series “The Fall of the House of Usher” and the book launch for “The Astral Geographic” by Andy Sharp of English Heretic. No prep needed, but listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!

Go suck a fuck, it's our episode on “Donnie Darko” (spoilers AND swearing). A film in which we learn the incorrect place to store a Lifeline exercise card; that there's nothing more beautiful than Drew Barrymore's cellar door; and that it's not just Patrick Swayze's dancing that's dirty. This brilliantly cast, Halloween-set fantasy stalled at the US box office, did much better when released in the UK a year later; then DVD and word of mouth cemented it as a modern classic. Audiences may have been left scratching their heads, but most came away with a love of this intelligent and complex film, and that felt like a magnificent fuck you to a film industry convinced cinema goers need a steady diet of lowest common denominator crap. A subsequent “Director's Cut” made the mechanics of the film's take on time travel much more explicit, whilst also adding some unnecessary padding, but this film transcends its hard sci-fi premise, and can be viewed in the logic of dream or fantasy, always making narrative and emotional sense to the attentive viewer. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

In space, no one can hear Lee complain, but we're back on Earth, so get ready to hear our discussion on Ridley Scott's “Alien”. A film in which John Hurt rehearses his guest appearance in “Spaceballs”; Tom Skerritt gives a masterclass in poor management (we've all worked for a useless prick); and Ian Holm performs cinema's first self-bukkake. A fantastic, darkly epic film that perfectly straddles science fiction and horror, perhaps its greatest achievement is the thoroughly believable world (or worlds) it builds, allowing both its cast and the viewer to immerse themselves completely. Our discussion touches upon the sequels, which, whilst gradually conforming to the franchise fatigue of diminishing returns, having such a rich starting mythology to build upon, all throw up some real points of interest (particularly those films that continue Ripley's story). Our conversation also encompasses the film's creative origins in Alejandro Jodorowsky's (tragically) aborted attempt to bring “Dune” to the silver screen. Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.

Welcome To Horror Presents: “We Have Been Watching Must Be Destroyed”. It's another of our regular round ups of what the team having been shoving into their brain-faces. This time we discuss “Last Night In Soho”;“The Quatermass Experiment at 70”, The “Fear Street” trilogy; “The Babadook”; “47 Ronin”; “On The Silver Globe”; and “Final Destination”. With shout outs to Joe Watson, Nicholas Tomnay, Leadbelt Art and Doomshire Tapes. No prep needed, bur listeners beware, as here be (possible) spoilers and (definite) swearing. Join us!