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So here it is at last: the sequel, the fourth entry, the cinematic cousin twice removed — 28 YEARS LATER: THE BONE TEMPLE (2026). Whereas its predecessor strutted into theaters and made off with a tidy profit, The Bone Temple stumbled in, tripped over its own shoelaces, and spilled popcorn everywhere. Whether it was secretly brilliant or just misunderstood, the numbers don't lie: $58.5M earned on a $63M budget. In Hollywood terms, that's the equivalent of showing up to a potluck with an empty casserole dish and hoping no one notices. A flop it was.IMDB offers a plot description so brief it feels like it was written on a Post‑it: “As Spike is inducted into Jimmy Crystal's gang on the mainland, Dr. Kelson makes a discovery that could alter the world.” Short, sweet, and suspiciously vague — like the cinematic equivalent of someone whispering, “Trust me, it'll make sense later,” while backing slowly into the shadows. But hey, sometimes mystery is part of the charm, or at least part of the marketing.And was it actually a great film, despite audiences collectively deciding to stay home and alphabetize their spice racks instead? Well, it was directed by Nia DaCosta, working from a script by the ever‑brilliant Alex Garland, which is already a promising cocktail. Jack O'Connell throws himself into a gloriously unhinged role, only to be effortlessly overshadowed by Ralph Fiennes, who returns as the enigmatic doctor and proceeds to act like he's in a much better movie — which, according to critics, he might have been. Your cohosts dive into this critically adored, commercially ignored entry in the franchise and share their thoughts, with all the enthusiasm of people who definitely did not skip it in theaters.

Sometimes a book-to-film adaptation tiptoes onto the big screen and politely asks for your attention — and then there's THE HOUSEMAID, which in late 2025 kicked down the door, winked at the audience, and became a runaway hit. What began as a novel marketed squarely to women suddenly transformed into a blockbuster for, well, anyone over 18 with a taste for psychological chaos and Sydney Sweeney giving the camera that “I know something you don't” stare. Amanda Seyfried joined the party, too, because why not make things even more deliciously unhinged.IMDB sums it up with admirable restraint: Millie, a struggling young woman, becomes a live‑in maid for a wealthy couple, Nina and Andrew, and promptly finds herself in a mansion stuffed with secrets, manipulation, and psychological games. In other words, it's less “dust the shelves” and more “try not to get emotionally vaporized by your employers.” The house itself practically deserves its own billing — every hallway feels like it's whispering, “Turn back now,” but of course Millie does not.Directed by Paul Feig — yes, the same Paul Feig who gave us Bridesmaids and apparently woke up one day and chose psychological warfare — and written for the screen by Rebecca Sonnenshine, the film also stars Brandon Sklenar as the male lead who may or may not be part of the problem (spoiler: he is). With a modest $35M budget and a swaggering $400M box‑office haul, the movie charmed critics, thrilled audiences, and probably made Freida McFadden, the author of the novel, do a very happy victory lap. Now your cohosts dive into the madness and share their thoughts, hopefully without getting pulled into any dangerous relationship dynamics themselves.

No one has ever accused Mel Gibson of being unable to play an action hero, and HUNTING SEASON (2025) seems determined to underline that point with a thick, permanent marker. This time around, he's a quiet, off‑the‑grid dad living in a rural town where the most exciting thing should be the annual bake sale. But when his daughter stumbles upon a mysterious, half‑dead woman on their wooded property, the universe apparently decides it's time to flip the “chaos” switch to ON.IMDb sums it up with: “When a reclusive survivalist and his daughter rescue a mysterious, wounded woman from a river, they become entangled in a deadly web of violence and revenge, forcing them to confront a brutal criminal to survive.” In other words, it's your classic tale of “I just wanted to be left alone, but fate delivered a plot twist to my doorstep,” complete with danger, vengeance, and the kind of criminal you definitely don't invite to Thanksgiving.Written by Adam Hampton and directed by RJ Collins, the film stars Gibson alongside Sofia Hublitz of OZARK fame and Shelly Hennig from UNFRIENDED. Despite a limited theatrical release, the movie has earned a warm reception from both critics and audiences—proof that sometimes all you need is a grizzled hero, a perilous forest, and a dash of revenge. Your cohosts at Dark Discussions Podcast dive into Gibson's latest adventure and share their thoughts on this wilderness‑flavored thriller.

For the second week in a row, we find ourselves wading back into the cinematic swamp of “animals who have absolutely had it with humans.” This time, the creature feature du jour is THRASH (2026), a Netflix exclusive that once lounged around Sony's living room before being scooped up by the streaming giant. It splashed onto VOD on April 10th, 2026, and to the shock of absolutely no one, it feels a bit like déjà vu of CRAWL (2019)—only someone swapped the alligator for sharks, as if playing a very chaotic round of ecological Mad Libs.According to IMDb, the plot goes something like: “When a Category 5 hurricane decimates a coastal town, the storm surge brings devastation, chaos and something far more frightening: hungry sharks.” In other words, Mother Nature looked at the disaster movie genre and said, “You know what this needs? Teeth.” The film comes courtesy of Norwegian filmmaker Tommy Wirkola—yes, the mastermind behind DEAD SNOW and VIOLENT NIGHT—who clearly woke up one morning and chose aquatic violence.The cast boasts Phoebe Dynevor, Whitney Peak, Djimon Hounsou, Matt Nable, and more brave souls willing to pretend they're being hunted by CGI fins. Reviews have ranged from “eh” to “please no,” but Netflix has been promoting it with the enthusiasm of a proud parent whose child just ate an entire crayon. Luckily, your cohosts are joined by actor Dan Lench (CIRCLE, MAXXXINE, THE LURKING MAN) to dive into this toothy tempest of nature‑gone‑wild horror.

There exists a surprisingly robust tribe of moviegoers who will cheerfully watch a dozen humans meet their doom on screen but will immediately clutch their pearls if so much as a fictional hamster looks nervous. Humans? Expendable. Animals? Absolutely not. But toss that rulebook out the window the moment the creature in question is the one doing the terrorizing. Suddenly, it's all popcorn and delighted shrieks. Enter the newest entry in the “animals behaving very, very badly” cinematic universe: the 2026 horror romp PRIMATE.According to IMDb, the plot is “A group of friends' tropical vacation turns into a terrifying, primal tale of horror and survival.” Which is a polite way of saying: paradise goes sideways, things get bitey, and no one is getting their flight fare back. It's a tidy little summary that tells you everything and nothing at the same time—like a fortune cookie written by someone who really loves creature features.Directed and co-written by Johannes Roberts—yes, the same mastermind behind 47 Meters Down, the movie that convinced half the planet to avoid the ocean—PRIMATE stars Johnny Sequoyah, Jessica Alexander, Victoria Wyant, and a cast of humans who presumably regret taking tropical vacations forever. Despite glowing reviews and a box office that shrieked louder than its title character, the film nearly skipped theaters entirely and was destined for a quiet VOD life. The Dark Discussions Podcast crew dives into whether that would've been a tragedy, a mercy, or simply the natural order of things when dealing with murderous wildlife on the big screen.

The untimely passing of Nicholas Brendon left BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER fans feeling as though a familiar light had flickered unexpectedly. Appearing in nearly every episode, he became a beloved presence — the kind of character who could make you laugh even when the Hellmouth was doing its worst. His charm, warmth, and unmistakable wit made him a fan favorite, and his absence is felt deeply by those who followed his work.To honor his memory, the award‑nominated Dark Discussions Podcast is turning its attention to one of the most intriguing films in his career: COHERENCE (2013). It's a movie where a simple dinner party becomes a cosmic puzzle box, and reality behaves like it's had one too many glasses of wine. IMDB describes it as a night when a passing comet triggers a chain of reality‑bending events among eight unsuspecting friends — a premise that feels tailor‑made for Brendon's blend of grounded humor and emotional nuance.Written and directed by James Ward Byrkit, the film stars Brendon alongside Emily Baldoni, Maury Sterling, Elizabeth Gracen, Hugo Armstrong, and Lauren Maher. Celebrated by critics and audiences alike, this hidden gem is both an actor's playground and a screenwriter's delight. Your co‑hosts revisit the film with admiration, exploring its clever twists while paying heartfelt tribute to Nicholas Brendon and the memorable artistry he brought to the screen.

Podcasting is usually a harmless hobby—just you, a mic, and the comforting illusion that strangers on the internet care about your opinions. But in the 2026 horror flick KAT CRIME: TALES OF THE OCCULT, podcasting becomes a one‑way ticket to “absolutely not.” Our heroine and her old schoolmate‑turned‑neighbor dive deep into occult crimes, disappearances, and unsolved murders for their show. Naturally, in true horror‑movie fashion, they dig a little too deep. And despite the title, this is no cozy Nancy Drew caper, nor is it a found‑footage gimmick. This is full‑throttle horror with a podcasting garnish.IMDB sums it up with a flourish: “An aspiring true‑crime YouTuber investigating an occult‑linked disappearance gains exclusive access to a reclusive witch coven—only to discover that belief itself may be the most dangerous weapon of all.” Which is a polite way of saying: curiosity may not kill the cat, but it certainly puts Kat in a very questionable situation.Written and directed by Jerry Artukovich, the film stars Christina Colgan as Kat, with Kyla Nova stealing scenes as Deana, her partner in podcasting peril. Early reviews have been kind, suggesting this small‑budget chiller might just stand out in the ever‑crowded horror buffet. So the question becomes: does it cast a spell strong enough to rise above the noise? Your Dark Discussions cohosts are ready to press play and find out.

When a spirited squad of Filipinas flies off to Chile for a bachelorette blowout, the plan is simple: sun on their skin, drinks in hand, and not a single worry beyond which bikini matches the day's vibe. Unfortunately for them—and delightfully for horror fans—this is no ordinary getaway. The universe has a habit of turning girls' trips into cautionary tales, and BEST SERVED COLD (2026) is more than ready to stir trouble into the vacation cocktail.IMDB offers a delightfully blunt teaser: “Two best friends on a food tour in Chile discover a remote resort run by cannibals.” What it politely avoids mentioning is the most important detail: who exactly is being served, and how fast can one run in flip‑flops? The film wastes no time turning culinary curiosity into a full‑blown nightmare, with friendship, fear, and questionable menu items all simmering together.Directed by Richard Somes, the movie stars Elisse Joson as Gwen, the glowing bride‑to‑be, and Alexa Miro as Moira, her fiercely loyal partner in pre‑wedding mischief. Somes channels the gritty charm of 1970s Filipino exploitation cinema, delivering a tight 90‑minute ride that blends grindhouse grit with a dash of mainstream sheen. Whether it satisfies midnight‑movie cravings while still appealing to broader audiences is exactly what Dark Discussions sets out to explore.

Robert Duvall's passing marks the end of an era for American cinema. Few actors have carved out a career as rich or as enduring: seven Academy Award nominations, a filmography that spans generations, and a legacy built on performances that helped define some of the greatest films ever made. His body of work stands as a testament to a performer who brought quiet intensity and emotional precision to every role, no matter the scale.While Duvall was not often associated with genre filmmaking, one early entry in his career remains a fascinating outlier: George Lucas's debut feature, the 1971 stark and enigmatic THX 1138. The film, adapted from Lucas's student project, unfolds in a sterile 25th‑century dystopia where citizens are known only by alphanumeric codes. Its premise, as summarized by IMDb, follows “a man, THX 1138, and a woman, LUH 3417, [who] rebel against their rigidly controlled society,” setting the stage for a haunting exploration of identity and autonomy.In this minimalist, oppressive world, Duvall delivers a performance that is both fragile and riveting, portraying a man slowly unraveling under the weight of enforced conformity. Joined by Donald Pleasence and guided by a script co‑written by Lucas and sound‑design pioneer Walter Murch, Duvall anchors the film with a quiet desperation that lingers long after the credits roll. As fans and critics reflect on his extraordinary career, revisiting THX 1138 offers a striking reminder of the depth and versatility that made Robert Duvall one of cinema's most enduring talents.

A family curse is all fun and games until it decides you're next on the list, which is exactly the kind of cheery scenario DEATH NAME (2026) strolls into. The film leans into that unsettling “no escape” vibe—because apparently moving, praying, or Googling “how to break generational hexes” won't help you here. Spells fizzle, geography is irrelevant, and denial only works until the curse taps you on the shoulder. It's a rough setup, but a deliciously eerie one.According to IMDb, the story follows a young Korean American woman who innocently tries to learn more about her heritage—because what could possibly go wrong with a little cultural curiosity? Quite a lot, as it turns out. The deeper she digs, the more she stirs up a deadly family curse that really should've stayed in the attic with the dusty photo albums and that one aunt's questionable kimchi recipe.Directed by the single-named and mysteriously stylish Réi, with a screenplay by Regina Kim, the film stars Amy Keum as Sophie Park, supported by Vana Kim, Kevin Woo, and Alice Bang. It's a lineup that pairs nicely with Korean BBQ, kimchi, and a cold Cass beer—ideal snacks while your co-hosts dive into this new Tubi original and try not to wonder whether their families have been hiding any curses of their own.

Few horror novels have embedded themselves in the public imagination quite like Stephen King's The Shining. A bestseller upon release and still one of King's most recognizable works, it was only a matter of time before Hollywood came calling. What no one expected, however, was that the notoriously meticulous Stanley Kubrick would take the reins—and bring Jack Nicholson along for the ride. The result is a film that has since carved out its place in cinema history as one of the genre's towering achievements.IMDB distills the premise succinctly: “A family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter, where a sinister presence influences the father into violence. At the same time, his psychic son sees horrifying forebodings from both the past and the future.” It's a simple setup, but Kubrick's execution transformed it into a labyrinth of dread, symbolism, and psychological unraveling that continues to inspire analysis decades later.That enduring fascination was on full display recently when The Shining was pitted against fourteen other contenders in a listener poll on the Dark Discussions Podcast Facebook group. The film emerged victorious, earning the spotlight for the show's milestone 700th episode. In celebration, the hosts revisit Kubrick's icy masterpiece—its legacy, its mysteries, and its place not just in horror, but in the broader canon of American filmmaking.

Retro‑cinema may not be full‑blown faux‑grindhouse, but NIGHT OF THE REAPER (2025) absolutely revels in its throwback slasher DNA. This is a film where a masked killer doesn't just stalk victims—he psychologically toys with them, records the whole ordeal, and then thoughtfully distributes his “content” to the town police chief and local high schoolers like some deranged community‑outreach program. It's nostalgia, but with extra blood pressure.IMDb lays out the setup with admirable calm: “College student Deena visits home and is roped into babysitting. The local sheriff is mailed a piece of evidence and is led on a scavenger hunt to reveal the killer of another babysitter.” Translation: Deena's weekend plans are about to go spectacularly sideways, and the sheriff is stuck playing the world's least fun escape‑room challenge—one clue at a time, courtesy of a murderer with a flair for arts and crafts.Directed by Brandon Christensen and co‑written with Ryan Christensen, the film unleashes Jessica Clement, Ryan Robbins, Summer H. Howell, and a handful of other unlucky souls into the path of the Reaper's escalating theatrics. As the slashing ramps up, survival becomes a group project no one signed up for. Your co‑hosts dive into this fresh slice of retro‑horror mayhem and share exactly what they make of its masked‑man antics.

Stranded on a speck of land barely big enough for your own shadow, you find yourself at a lonely lighthouse that seems to breathe with its own moods—sometimes brooding, sometimes whispering, sometimes downright unsettling. But what if the creaking beams and flickering lantern light aren't the scariest things out there? What if something older, darker, and decidedly supernatural has been waiting in the mist all along? That's the deliciously eerie setup of Amazon's brand new 2026 release, BENEATH THE LIGHT, a film that turns isolation into an invitation for the uncanny.At the heart of the story is Jacob, who accepts a job at this remote lighthouse with the innocent hope of reconnecting with a childhood friend. Instead, he's greeted by strange happenings that twist his sense of reality and tug at the frayed edges of his memory. As he navigates anxiety, half‑remembered truths, and the creeping sense that the island is watching him, he unexpectedly finds romance—and an even more unexpected connection with the lighthouse's enigmatic owner. It's part mystery, part psychological spiral, part tender human story, all wrapped in fog and flickering lantern glow.The film springs from the mind of writer‑director John Baumgartner, brought to life by a cast that includes Zach Tinker, John Pyper‑Ferguson, and Ana Nicolle Chavez. After charming and spooking its way through the festival circuit—earning glowing praise along the way—it was scooped up by Amazon as a Prime exclusive. Now your co‑hosts dive into this freshly released gem, ready to unravel its secrets, celebrate its surprises, and share exactly what they think lurks beneath the light.

A found‑footage fever dream wrapped in a faux‑documentary bow, THE HEM (2025) drags viewers deep into the heart of Fort Worth, Texas—where the festivals are lively, the locals are chatty, and the abandoned churches apparently come with their own PR restrictions. What begins as a simple “talk to anyone with a pulse” documentary shoot quickly derails the moment the crew utters the wrong three words: haunted. collapsing. church. Suddenly, interviews dry up faster than a Texas creek in August, and the filmmakers find themselves chasing a story no one wants to touch.IMDb sums it up neatly: “A documentary crew investigates a haunted church on the verge of collapse with one condition: they must be out by dark.” Which, of course, is exactly the kind of condition that guarantees they will not be out by dark. The setup practically begs for shaky cameras, ominous whispers, and at least one moment where someone insists, confidently and incorrectly, that everything is fine.Written and directed by Tyler Russell and shot on location in Fort Worth, the film features Rani Alowairdi, Terri Merritt Bennett, Ryan Bijan, and a supporting cast who look convincingly terrified to be anywhere near that church. Now that it's out on streaming, the question becomes whether this entry in the found‑footage canon brings anything fresh to the genre or simply adds another creepy church to the cinematic map. Your co‑hosts dive into the dust, dread, and documentary chaos to share their thoughts.

With March 2026 already in full swing, the moment feels ripe—if just a touch belated—to cast our eyes toward the cinematic horizon and take stock of what the year promises. The landscape ahead is a sprawling mix of theatrical releases, video‑on‑demand debuts, and those ever‑reliable genre offerings destined to make their first appearance on disc. Looking back, 2025 proved to be an unexpectedly strong year for horror and genre cinema, delivering a surprising number of standout titles and a higher-than-usual concentration of hidden treasures. Yet even with that momentum, 2026 seems poised to outshine its predecessor, with a slate that feels unusually rich, varied, and ambitious. Add to that the return of several acclaimed genre‑leaning television series, and the year begins to look like a feast for fans of the strange, the suspenseful, and the supernatural.As always, Dark Discussions steps forward to survey the terrain with a blend of curiosity and enthusiasm. Our annual tradition continues: sifting through the release calendar, spotlighting the heavy hitters that will dominate conversations, and shining a light on the quieter, quirkier projects that might otherwise slip beneath the radar. The big studio tentpoles and prestige horror entries naturally demand attention, but part of the thrill lies in discovering the unexpected—the films with modest profiles that may, by December, be the ones we're still talking about. Genre cinema has a long history of producing masterpieces from the margins, and this year's lineup suggests that lightning may strike again.In the months ahead, we'll be tracking everything from long‑anticipated sequels to bold original visions, from festival darlings to direct‑to‑disc curiosities that could turn out to be genuine revelations. Whether you're drawn to atmospheric slow burns, creature features, psychological thrillers, or blood‑pumping action‑horror hybrids, 2026 appears ready to deliver something worth savoring. Dark Discussions invites you to join us as we explore what's coming, what's promising, and what might just become essential viewing by the time the year draws to a close.

Clowns may be the giggling darlings of birthday parties and big tops, but drop them into a horror movie and suddenly the greasepaint feels a lot less whimsical. Pennywise and Art the Clown have already proven that nothing kills childhood nostalgia faster than a toothy grin and a blood-soaked prop. Now joining this illustrious lineage of nightmare fuel is SUPER HAPPY FUN CLOWN (2026), a film whose title sounds like a Saturday‑morning cartoon but whose content absolutely does not.According to IMDb, the story follows “a battered former wunderkind” who decides that if life won't give her a spotlight, she'll carve one out herself—armed with an obsession for clowning, serial killers, and classic movie monsters. It's a premise that practically begs for chaos, and the film gleefully obliges, turning self‑reinvention into a full‑blown spree of technicolor infamy.Helmed by Patrick Rea—yes, the same mind behind They Wait in the Dark—and written by Eric Winkler, the film stars Jennifer Seward as the world's least huggable clown. She's joined by Nicole Hall, Matt Leisy, and Deborah Madick, whose turn as a mother‑gone‑bad is unsettling enough to make you call your own mom just to check in. Your co‑hosts dive into this freshly unboxed 2026 release and share exactly what they make of its twisted circus.

As we find ourselves already drifting through the heart of February 2026, the whirlwind of 2025 has slipped quietly into the rearview mirror, leaving behind a year brimming with cinematic curiosities, triumphs, and missteps. With the turning of the calendar comes the perfect moment to cast a thoughtful gaze backward and revisit the many films—both horror and genre-bending—that sought to thrill, unsettle, or simply bewilder us. Dark Discussions and its devoted co-hosts have once again gathered to sift through the shadows, assembling their annual retrospective to determine whether 2025 stood tall as a banner year for genre cinema or faltered under the weight of its own ambitions.Each co-host curated a personal selection of films worthy of recommendation, resulting in two distinct collections: one devoted to pure horror and another celebrating the broader realms of speculative fiction. From these individual offerings, the team wove together the definitive Dark Discussions lists—carefully balanced, lovingly debated, and reflective of the year's most memorable achievements. Familiar titles such as SINNERS and FINAL DESTINATION BLOODLINES naturally claimed their place, yet the lists also shine a light on quieter gems like RED ROOMS and DROP, films that may have slipped beneath the mainstream radar but lingered in the minds of those who discovered them.But the celebration doesn't end with the films themselves. Dark Discussions dives deeper, presenting an array of additional highlights: the most striking and disastrous scenes, the reigning scream queens, the breakout performers who emerged from the shadows, and countless other delights that color the tapestry of the year. With this comprehensive wrap-up, the podcast ties a neat bow around 2025, offering listeners not only reflection but also a treasure trove of titles to seek out, savor, and perhaps even fear.

Faux‑documentary horror has been lurking around the genre's basement for years, occasionally creeping upstairs to terrify critics and earn cult‑classic status. Titles like THE POUGHKEEPSIE TAPES (2007), THE TAKING OF DEBORAH LOGAN (2014), and the ever‑whispered THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT (1999) have long held the crown for “films most likely to convince your friend it's real.” And now, shambling into the spotlight in 2025, comes a new contender with a name that sounds like a farmers' market gone horribly wrong: STRANGE HARVEST.According to IMDB, the film follows detectives on the trail of “Mr. Shiny,” a serial killer whose return ushers in a fresh wave of grotesque, possibly cosmic crimes. Because of course—why settle for a run‑of‑the‑mill murderer when you can have one powered by eldritch forces and questionable fashion choices? The premise promises a blend of true‑crime grit and supernatural weirdness, the kind of combo that makes you wonder whether you should turn on a light or just move to a new house entirely.Written and directed by Stuart Ortiz, STRANGE HARVEST features Peter Zizzo, Terri Apple, and Andy Lauer trying their best to survive both the plot and the documentary‑style lens pointed at them. With reviews already leaning impressively positive, your co‑hosts dive into this unsettling new entry in the genre to see whether it's a fresh crop worth gathering—or something better left unpicked.

Body horror has always been the unruly cousin at the horror family reunion—the one everyone side‑eyes but can't stop gossiping about later. David Cronenberg practically built the house this cousin lives in, wallpapered it with viscera, and handed out the keys to generations of filmmakers who gleefully keep the tradition alive. Enter TOGETHER (2025), a film that doesn't just dip a toe into the subgenre—it cannonballs in, using the human body as both battleground and blunt instrument.According to IMDb, the story follows Tim and Millie, a couple who decide that moving to the country will fix their relationship—because that always works out well in horror movies. Naturally, instead of fresh air and farmers' markets, they stumble into an “unnatural force” that threatens not only their love but their very flesh. Nothing says couples therapy like eldritch corruption nibbling at the edges of your anatomy.Penned and directed by Michael Shanks, TOGETHER stars real‑life spouses Dave Franco and Alison Brie, proving that nothing tests a marriage quite like acting out supernatural bodily doom together. Damon Herriman joins the fun, rounding out a cast that critics have been applauding with gusto. With glowing reviews rolling in, your co‑hosts dive into the film's squirm‑inducing delights—joined by award‑winning actor Dan Lench, who brings his own flair to the dissection.

Pets in horror movies are always a minefield. Audiences will happily watch a dozen hapless humans get yeeted into the void, but the second a golden retriever whimpers ominously, everyone's suddenly a film critic with strong moral objections. Enter GOOD BOY (2025), a movie that clearly looked at that emotional weak spot and said, “Yes… let's poke it.”But instead of serving up another tragic pet casualty, this film flips the script. The star isn't the doomed sidekick—it's the dog himself. We experience the creeping dread through the eyes of Indy, a very good boy trying to make sense of the weird, possibly supernatural nonsense infesting his owner's isolated old house. Think The Conjuring, but with more sniffing and a better protagonist.IMDB sums it up like this:“A loyal dog moves to a rural family home with his owner, only to discover supernatural forces lurking in the shadows. As dark entities threaten his human companion, the brave pup must fight to protect the one he loves most.”Directed by Ben Leonberg and co-written by Alex Cannon, the film proudly features Indy the dog as its leading actor—finally, a performer who doesn't need CGI to convey raw emotion. Shane Jensen and Arielle Friedman round out the human cast, presumably doing their best to keep up with their four‑legged co-star.Your co-hosts dive into this canine-centric creep-fest and share their thoughts on whether GOOD BOY earns a treat… or needs to go back outside.

New Year's resolutions hit everyone differently. Some people vow to slim down, shake up their love life, chase a new career, or finally finish that long‑abandoned project. Others aim for something a little more fun. Co‑host Mike admitted he's been sitting on a mountain of genre films he's never seen, so we figured—why not turn that into our annual tradition? Each co‑host picked a genre title they'd always meant to watch, dove in, and came back ready to talk about it.This year's cinematic spread is a wild one: Lucio Fulci's 1981 Lovecraft‑soaked nightmare The HOUSE BY THE CEMETERY, the 2015 supernatural noir HE NEVER DIED, the 2025 festival‑favorite EDGAR ALLEN POE'S THE OVAL PORTRAIT, HBO Max's electrifying STRANGER THINGS Season 4, and the scrappy, sci‑fi‑comedy debut from John Carpenter and Dan O'Bannon, DARK STAR.As we kick off another year of deep dives and dark delights, Dark Discussions wishes all our listeners a fantastic 2026. A special shout‑out goes to our Patreon supporters—new faces and longtime friends alike. We'd love to hear which unseen films you're planning to tackle this year. Drop us a line at darkdiscussions@aol.com and share your picks.

Back in 2009, James Cameron made a film that changed the way to make movies. That film was called AVATAR which was nominated for multiple awards and became the top grossing film of all time. After returning to the series in 2022 with AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER, which also became a top 10 box office film of all time, he's back with the third in the series entitled AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH (2025).From IMBD: "Jake and Neytiri's family grapples with grief, encountering a new, aggressive Na'vi tribe, the Ash People, who are led by the fiery Varang, as the conflict on Pandora escalates and a new moral focus emerges."The movie brings back the main characters from the prior two films, and the entire Na'vi people, but builds on the world with an introduction to the Ash People (known as the Mangkwan), and their leader. Receiving fabulous reviews from audiences at a whopping 90% approval, your co-hosts take a look at the latest in the AVATAR franchise and give their thoughts.

Pete Davidson, the comedian, actor, and tabloid personality, has become an A-lister having been on Saturday Night Live for years. Now he's breaking out doing standup and films. His latest film is the psychological horror movie, THE HOME (2025).From IMDB: "Follows Max, who realizes that the residents and caretakers in the retirement home he started working at hide sinister secrets."THE HOME was directed and co-written by James DeMonaco who wrote and directed the first three THE PURGE films, and wrote the remainder. THE HOME stars Pete Davidson along with Bruce Altman, John Glover, among others. Though receiving mixed reviews, the movie has gained somewhat of a cult following. Your co-hosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

Twenty-eight years after the Rage virus first tore through the UK, director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland return to the franchise that redefined zombie horror. 28 Years Later picks up on a remote island where survivors have carved out a fragile existence, only to be drawn back into the mainland's quarantine zone—where secrets fester and the infected aren't the only threat. With a cast led by Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes, the film dives deep into the psychological toll of survival, the ethics of containment, and the terrifying evolution of humanity itself.Join the crew as we dissect the film's themes of isolation and resurgence, compare it to its predecessors (28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later), and debate whether this third installment delivers on its legacy—or simply mutates it. We also explore the film's visual grit, Young Fathers' haunting score, and the implications of a new trilogy in the making.So grab your hazmat suit and tune in—because the Rage virus isn't done with us yet.

The Philippou brothers, Danny and Michael, of Australia hit it big with the horror film TALK TO ME (2022). That film received rave reviews, had a mainstream feel, and made a lot of money for its budget at the theaters. Now they are back with their latest horror effort, BRING HER BACK (2025).From RottenTomatoes: “A brother and sister uncover a terrifying ritual at the secluded home of their new foster mother.”The movie stars in an absolutely fabulous performance by Sally Hawkins, and includes a cast of Billy Barratt, Sora Wong, and Jonah Wren Phillips. Just like TALK TO ME, the film has received rave reviews. And yet, it is more arthouse and most certainly won't be for everyone. Your co-hosts take a look at the brothers' follow up film and give their thoughts.

Zombie films seem to have found their place in cinema. After a breakout back in the early 2000's, an over saturation almost killed off the genre. But one thing is that if you are an independent filmmaker, it is one of the best types of films to attempt. The new film ZOMBIECON, VOL. 1 (2025) is one of them and has received some good buzz.From IMDB: “A group of cosplaying friends trigger a zombie apocalypse and are forced to traverse a zombie-infested Los Angeles to save their loved one.”The film is directed by Kyle Valle, and co-written by Valle along with stars Erin Aine and Manny Luke. Besides Aine and Luke, the films cast includes Punkie Johnson, Christian Casillas, Carlo Mendez, and Nichole McAuley. Though having mixed reviews, the film has gained somewhat of a cult following because of its cosplay aspect. Your co-hosts take a look at this new film and give their thoughts.

The iconic character Red Sonja first appeared as a character called Red Sonya of Rogatino by author Robert E. Howard, the creator of Conan. Many years later she appeared as a barbarian warrior in 1973 in Marvel Comics. Today her story continues in the comics by Dynamite and has a dedicated following. A new movie, simply titled RED SONJA (2025), is now out. With a short run at theaters, it is now available to rent.From RottenTomatoes: “Captured. Chained. Forced to fight for survival. Red Sonja must battle her way through the blood-soaked pits of a tyrant's empire and rally an army of outcasts to reclaim her freedom and take down Dragan and his ruthless bride, Dark Annisia.Directed by MJ Bassett and written by Tasha Huo, the international cast includes Matilda Lutz as Red Sonja, and also Wallis Day, Robert Sheehan, and Luca Pasqualino. A passion project by Bassett and Huo, the film has actually received positive reviews for a limited budget epic. Your co-hosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

Zach Cregger has become a different voice in film. His first big break was the movie BARBARIAN (2022) which had a unique flair to it as it stretched between being grounded (and even message bringing) to over the top grindhouse. Now in 2025 his latest film, WEAPONS, has arrived and is it a great follow up or not?From IMDB: When all but one child from the same class mysteriously vanish on the same night at exactly the same time, a community is left questioning who or what is behind their disappearance.WEAPONS is directed and written by Zach Cregger. The cast includes an ensemble cast including Josh Brolin, Julia Garner, Alden Ehrenreidch, and Benedict Wong. With a budget of $38M USD and earned an amazing $268M USD while receiving great reviews. Your co-hosts take a look at Cregger's latest and give their thoughts.

Lost on an island, during World War 2, with your sworn enemy? What do you do? Well, the new horror film MONSTER ISLAND (2025) helps answer that question when you are also sharing it with a monster. IMDB summary: “Set in the Pacific, 1942. A Japanese soldier and a British prisoner of war are stranded on a deserted island, hunted by a deadly creature. Two mortal enemies must come together to survive the unknown.”After playing the festival circuit in 2024, the movie was released in the United States on Shudder in Q3 of 2025. This “bottle film” was written and directed by Mike Wiluan and stars Dean Fujioka and Callum Woodhouse. Though not noticed by many critics, the film has been promoted on Shudder on its front page. Your co-hosts are joined by actor Dan Lench to discuss this “little” movie.

Another vampire film has been released to theaters, and this one has received fabulous reviews and become one of the highest profitable movies of 2025. SINNERS, a new film by director and writer Ryan Coogler, has him team up once more with Michael B. Jordan in a starring role.From IMDB: “Trying to leave their troubled lives behind, twin brothers return to their hometown to start again, only to discover that an even greater evil is waiting to welcome them back.”Besides Michael B. Jordan playing twin brothers in the film, the movie also stars Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Jack O'Connell, Lola Kirke, among many more. It was released at theaters on April 18th, 2025 and now has made its way to HBO Max. Your co-hosts take a look at the film and give their thoughts.

Dan O'Bannon, the co-screenwriter of ALIEN (1979), once stated (paraphrasing) that nothing is original but writers borrow from others. Well, the new science fiction horror film, ASH (2025), certainly does that. It has a bit of ALIEN, among other science fiction films, as well as the novels and works of Michael Crichton. From IMDB: “A woman wakes up on a distant planet and finds the crew of her space station viciously killed. Her investigation into what happened sets in motion a terrifying chain of events.”Ash is the directorial feature length debut of the artist known as Flying Lotus based on a screenplay by Jonni Remmler. The film stars Eiza Gonzalez and Aaron Paul. The film includes science fiction, horror, and techno-thriller elements within it. Getting 71% good reviews by critics while only 54% by audiences, your co-hosts take a look at this highly debated film and give their thoughts.

David Cronenberg is one of those great directors that started with B-Movie horror only to become a highly regarded, award winning director. Now at 82, his latest film, THE SHROUDS, was nominated for the Palme d'Or at Cannes. After playing one other festival, it was released at theaters in April 2025. Now it is available on VOD and streaming for all to see.From IMDB: “Karsh, an innovative businessman and grieving widower, builds a device to connect with the dead inside a burial shroud.”THE SHROUDS was written and directed by David Cronenberg and has a fabulous international cast including lead Vincent Cassell, Diane Kruger, and Guy Pierce. Receiving good reviews in what critics are calling his most intimate and biographical film, your co-hosts take a look at Cronenberg's latest.

Writer and director Christopher Landon, the son of legendary actor Michael Landon, has either directed or wrote such films as HAPPY DEATH DAY (2017) and its sequel, along with most of the PARANORMAL ACTIVITY franchise films. This year alone, he co-wrote HEART EYES and now has a directorial effort called DROP.From IMDB: "A widowed mother's first date in years takes a terrifying turn when she's bombarded with anonymous threatening messages on her phone during their upscale dinner, leaving her questioning if her charming date is behind the harassment."DROP stars Meghann Fahy (THE WHITE LOTUS) and Brandon Sklenar (1923), and received a major theatrical release in April of 2025. Costing $11M USD, it made over $28M USD. Receiving excellent reviews from both critics and audiences alike, your co-hosts take a look at Landon's latest and give their thoughts.

One of the first hit thrillers of 2025 was the film FLIGHT RISK. Taking place in Alaska with a small cast upon an airplane, the movie had a fairly successful box office run against its modest budget.From IMDB: “A pilot transports an Air Marshal accompanying a fugitive to trial. As they cross the Alaskan wilderness, tensions soar and trust is tested, as not everyone on board is who they seem.”FLIGHT RISK was directed by actor Mel Gibson, his first since the Oscar nominated HACKSAW RIDGE (2016). The screenplay was written by Jared Rosenberg, and the film stars Michelle Dockery (DOWNTOWN ABBEY), Mark Wahlberg (THE FIGHTER), and Topher Grace (THAT 70's SHOW). Getting mixed reviews, your co-hosts take a look to see if it was worthy of its box office and if it is considered a hidden gem.

Just a few years ago, Netflix released a handful of intertwined films all titled with the prefix of FEAR STREET. Now in 2025, the have released their latest called FEAR STREET PROM QUEEN. The film, just like the others, are based on stories by R.L. Stine and include the same town of Shadyside, Pennsylvania.From IMDB: “When the “it” girls competing for prom queen at Shadyside High start to disappear, a gutsy outsider discovers she's in for one hell of a prom night.”The film is directed by Matt Palmer, and co-written by him along with Donald McLeary. The film's cast includes India Fowler, Suzanna Son, Fina Strazza, and Lili Taylor. Receiving negative reviews, your co-hosts take a look and see if they are well deserved.

Joon Ho Bong is probably the most well known Korean director outside his home country of South Korea. His filmography includes some pretty well known movies including MEMORIES OF MURDER (2003), THE HOST (2006), SNOWPIERCER (2013), and PARASITE (2019). His latest film, also English language such as SNOWPIERCER was, is MICKEY 17 (2025).From IMDB: “During a human expedition to colonize space, Mickey 17, a so-called “expendable” employee, is sent to explore an ice planet.”The film was directed and written by Bong based off the novel Mickey7 by Edward Ashton. The cast includes Robert Pattinson in another stellar performance and includes Toni Collette, Mark Ruffalo, and Steven Yeun. Receiving fairly good reviews by all, your co-hosts take a look at the film and give their thoughts.

THE FIX (2025) is a new South African film that was recently released in North America on VOD. But what is it? Is it a horror film, a science fiction thriller, an environmental warning, a dystopian movie, or a superhero origin tale? It's a bunch of things, but I guess it depends on your perspective.From IMDB: In a future with toxic air, a model takes a drug causing a transformation. She tries reversing it but learns her mutations could save humanity.The movie is directed and written by Kelsey Egan while starring Grace Van Dien, the daughter of Caspar Van Dien. Though noticed by little review sites, the film has a leading lady that attracts attention. Your co-hosts have decided to take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

The FINAL DESTINATION franchise is one of the older and most successful horror franchises in modern cinema history. Since the very first, the series has extended to now the sixth installment entitled FINAL DESTINATION BLOODLINES (2025).From IMDB: Plagued by a recurring violent nightmare, a college student returns home to find the one person who can break the cycle and save her family from the horrific fate that inevitably awaits them.The film is co-directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein from a script cowritten by Guy Busick, Lori Evans Taylor, and Jon Watts. The movie's cast includes Kaitlyn Santa Juana, Teo Briones, and Rya Kihlstedt. Receiving fabulous reviews and making a ton of money, your co-hosts take a look at the film to see if it worthy of all the love.

Spiders, bugs, creepy crawlies - they are some of the worst phobias a person can have. The new film, STING (2024), certainly plays into those fears well and may be the reason it has received such fabulous reviews.From IMDB: "After raising an unnervingly talented spider in secret, 12-year-old Charlotte must face the facts about her pet-and fight for her family's survival-when the once-charming creature rapidly transforms into a giant, flesh-eating monster."Though primarily filmed in and starring mostly Australian performers, the movie takes place in the borough of Brooklyn in New York City. The movie was written and directed by Kiah Roache-Turner. When it appeared on Hulu in late 2024, its word of mouth spread. Your co-hosts take a look at it and give their thoughts.

"Based on true events" or "Inspired by true events" is not that uncommon for film, especially the thriller and horror genres. The new film, THE MAN IN THE WHITE VAN, is one of them. Though completely fictional, it is inspired by the real life Florida serial killer Billy Mansfield. From Rottentomatoes: "Inspired by a true story, "The Man in the White Van" delves into the eerie underbelly of a seemingly idyllic 1975 Florida town, and follows the harrowing experience of young Annie Williams, a spirited girl whose carefree existence is turned upside down as she becomes stalked by an ominous man in a white van."The film was directed and co-written by Warren Skeels. The film starts Madison Wolfe, Brec Bassinger, Ali Larter, and Sean Astin. With the help of Ali Larter, Sean Astin, and Giovanni Ribisi (as cinematographer) to independently produce, the movie was picked up by Relativity Media for distribution. It received mixed reviews on release, but is this film truly a hidden gem that everyone must see?

Legends, myths, and folklore are a perfect place to dig for ideas to bring life to a horror film. But what if you combine such a thing with the gangster and revenge thriller subgenres? That's when you get the brand new Japanese film DEMON CITY (2025) based off a manga and anime.From IMDB: Framed for his family's murder and left for dead, an ex-hitman will stop at nothing to exact revenge on the masked "demons" who have taken over his city.Director Seiji Tanaka had his debut film MELANCHOLIC (2018) win multiple awards at festivals like the Tokyo International Film Festival and the Udine Far East Film Festival. His latest stars Toma Ikuta, Masahiro Higashide, and Miou Tanaka. DEMON CITY was released in Q1 of 2025 on Netflix. Your co-hosts take a look at the film and give their thoughts.

666, the number of the beast. Dark Discussions podcast has reached the 666th episode, and we decided to choose satanic horror as our special milestone episode. And we chose an obscure and yet fabulous 1960 Christopher Lee film entitled THE CITY OF THE DEAD.From IMDB: A young college student arrives in a sleepy Massachusetts town to research witchcraft; during her stay at an eerie inn, she discovers a startling secret about the town and its inhabitants.The movie was produced by a small production company, and the film landed up in public domain for years. Fortunately, it has been remastered and is finally available in pristine form. Titled THE CITY OF THE DEAD in the UK, it was released in the states and is known by the alternate title HORROR HOTEL. Your cohosts take a look at this classic film on their 666th episode. Thanks for joining us in our journey.

The V/H/S found footage film franchise has been a huge success. Cheap to make, bringing in established and up-and-coming talent, both behind the camera and on the pen, the series has made a ton of money and brought us some solid found footage in an anthology format. The latest in the franchise is V/H/S BEYOND (2024) which links together shorts mostly based upon visitors from another planet.From IMDB: Six bloodcurdling tapes unleash horror in a sci-fi inspired hellscape, pushing the boundaries of fear and suspense.The talent behind the camera includes Jordan Downey, Jay Cheel, Virat Pal, Justin Martinez, Kate Siegel, and Justin and Christian Long. The film was one of the highest rated in the franchise by critics, and received a release in September 2024 on the streaming service Shudder. Your co-hosts take a look at this film and give their thoughts.

Robots and artificial intelligence seems to be the wave of the future. There have been a number of interesting films discussing such a thing including SUBSERVIENCE (2024) and THE ARTIFICE GIRL (2023). Now the latest in the horror subgenre is COMPANION.From IMDB: A weekend getaway with friends at a remote cabin turns into chaos after it's revealed that one of the guests is not what they seem.Directed and written by Drew Hancock, the film stars Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, among others. The film was released on January 31st, 2025 and has received splendid reviews by both critics and audiences alike. Your co-hosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

Holiday films are themselves a subgenre of slasher films. For St. Valentine's Day, we've had a few examples including VALENTINE (2001) and MY BLOODY VALENTINE (1989 and 2009). Now in 2025, we have a brand new one entitled HEART EYES.From IMDB: For the past several years, the “Heart Eyes Killer” has wreaked havoc on Valentine's Day by stalking and murdering romantic couples. This Valentine's Day, no couple is safe.The film is directed by Josh Ruben and written by Philip Murphy, Christopher Landon, and Michael Kennedy. The cast includes Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding. Released on February 7th, 2025, the movie has received phenomenal reviews. Your co-hosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

Vampires don't die. Literally. They are still one of, if not the most popular monsters in literature. They have been modified and changed through time as their lore has evolved. The new Mexican horror film, VIOLENT DELIGHTS (2025), focuses on the psychopathic and violent nature of these monsters.From IMDB: The already rocky relationship of expecting lovers Lizbeth and Javier is put to the test when they become entangled with a disenchanted vampire couple.The movie was directed and written by Edin Martinez and had done well at festivals. The cast includes Ana Paulina Martinez, Guillermo Zapata, Ernesto Salinas, Jitzel Galicia, Paoola Hernandez, and Olivia Adriana Perez. Your co-hosts take a look at this new film and give their thoughts.

Stephen King's THE SKELETON CREW from 1985 was a highly regarded collection of short stories and one novella that he collected together as a major release. The book has had a few of the stories made into film. One of them, THE MONKEY (2025), was just released to theaters only a week or two ago as this is written. After THE MIST, it is possibly the most famous of the tales in the book as the original hardcover had a picture of the drumming monkey toy that the story and movie is about.From IMDB: When twin brothers Bill and Hal find their father's old monkey toy in the attic, a series of gruesome deaths start. The siblings decide to throw the toy away and move on with their lives, growing apart over the years.The film is directed and written by the highly prolific Osgood Perkins. The film stars Theo James, Tatiana Maslany, and Colin O'Brien. Receiving positive reviews, the movie has gone on to make back its $10M USD budget and more. Your cohosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

Post-apocalypse films are usually centered around a zombie apocalypse, a disease epidemic, or the results of a nuclear war. But also a religious apocalypse is as common when it comes the end of the world. The new film AZRAEL (2024) that appeared on Shudder is just that film.From RottenTomatoes: "In a world in which no one speaks, a mysterious, devout community hunts down a young woman named Azrael (Samara Weaving) who has escaped their imprisonment. Recaptured by its ruthless leaders, she is to be sacrificed to pacify an evil which resides deep within the surrounding wilderness -- but Azrael will stop at nothing to ensure her own freedom and survival."The film is written by highly acclaimed screenwriter Simon Barrett (YOU'RE NEXT (2011)) and directed by E.L. Katz (CHEAP THRILLS (2013)) while starring Samara Weaving (THE BABYSITTER (2017)). The film has received mixed reviews and is from IFC/Shudder. Your co-hosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.

Mental health, cluster B, bipolar, and OCD - there are so many types of behavioral health disabilities. The new movie, RED ROOMS (2025), seems to be a film about a man that has been arrested as a potential serial killer. But is it? The movie actually focuses on a person that in no way is involved in the case or the trial or the crime, until she places herself into it.From RottenTomatoes: "The high-profile case of serial killer Ludovic Chevalier has just gone to trial, and Kelly-Anne is obsessed. When reality blurs with her morbid fantasies, she goes down a dark path to seek the final piece of the puzzle: the missing video of a murdered 13-year-old girl, to whom Kelly-Anne bears a disturbing resemblance."A Quebec produced French language film, RED ROOMS (2025) is directed and written by Pacal Plante. The film stars Juliette Gariépy as a fashion model named Kelly-Anne in a fabulous performance. The casts also includes Laurie Babin, Maxwell McCabe-Lokos, and Elisabeth Locas. Getting excellent reviews, your co-hosts take a look at this new movie and give their thoughts.

Artificial Intelligence is one of the greatest technologies and is changing the world as we know it. Some scientists are trying incorporate it with robots and even first generational androids. Either way, horror movies have run with the “robot gone bad” scenario. The latest film starring Megan Fox doesn't disappoint.From IMDB: Follows a struggling father who purchases a domestic SIM to help care for his house and family, unaware she will gain awareness and turn deadly.Directed by S.K. Dale (TILL DEATH (2021)) and starring Megan Fox, Michele Morrone, Madeline Zima, and Matilda Firth, the film was cowritten by Will Honley and April Maguire. The movie has received mixed reviews. Your co-hosts take a look at the movie and give their thoughts.