FOLLOWING FILMS

Welcome to another episode of the Following Films Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Stephen Graham Jones, celebrated author and horror mastermind, to discuss his recent participation in the documentary series First Word on Horror. We’ll unpack his unique perspective on the genre, I ask highly specific questions about The Only Good Indians, we chat about Wes Craven’s iconic Scream, a film that redefined the slasher genre—along with some fun tangents, including my (possibly) miscredited nod to the house from Wes Craven’s New Nightmare. Is that Mike DeLuca's house? So sit back, relax, and join us for a conversation full of surprises, insights, and, of course, a little horror. For more information on First Word on Horror, visit etchstudio.substack.com .

Welcome to The Following Films Podcast, where we explore the minds behind the movies we love. On today’s episode, I’m joined by Emmy and WGA-winning writer and filmmaker Philip Gelatt to discuss his latest project, FIRST WORD ON HORROR—a fifteen-part documentary series that delves into the lives, inspirations, and writing philosophies of five of the most celebrated horror authors working today. This season, the series spotlights Stephen Graham Jones, Paul Tremblay, Elizabeth Hand, Laird Barron, and Mariana Enriquez. They take us on a journey from the icy peril of the Iditarod to the shadows of Argentina’s past, from the raw energy of the early DC punk scene to the eerie isolation of the Montana wilderness. Along the way, these authors share their stories—both real and imagined—blurring the lines between fact and fiction and offering a rare glimpse into the alchemy of storytelling. Philip, whose work includes The Spine of Night, Europa Report, They Remain, and Love, Death + Robots, brin...

Few films in Al Pacino’s career have been as controversial as Cruising (1980). Directed by William Friedkin, best known for The French Connection (1971) and The Exorcist (1973), Cruising is a psychological thriller that explores the underground leather and S&M subculture of New York City in the late 1970s. The film was met with strong backlash from LGBTQ+ activists upon its release, who feared it perpetuated negative stereotypes about gay men. At the same time, it was a commercial curiosity due to Pacino’s involvement and Friedkin’s track record. Four decades later, Cruising remains a complex and fascinating artifact of its time. The film follows Steve Burns (Al Pacino), a young and ambitious NYPD officer tasked with going undercover in the gay leather bar scene to catch a serial killer targeting gay men. Burns, who is in a relationship with Nancy (Karen Allen), immerses himself in the subculture and soon finds his identity and sense of morality challenged. As he delves deeper, the...

Regular Show is one of Cartoon Network’s most unique and beloved animated series, captivating audiences with surreal humor, nostalgic references, and unforgettable characters. Created by J.G. Quintel, the show ran for eight seasons from 2010 to 2017, building a dedicated fanbase that continues to celebrate its charm and creativity. The show follows Mordecai, a laid-back blue jay, and Rigby, a hyperactive raccoon, as they work as groundskeepers at a park under the supervision of their grumpy boss Benson, a living gumball machine. What starts as mundane tasks often escalate into absurd and supernatural adventures, introducing everything from time travel and video game battles to encounters with interdimensional beings. At its core, Regular Show is a workplace comedy infused with an anything-goes mentality, seamlessly blending slice-of-life humor with fantasy and sci-fi elements. Its episodes frequently begin with everyday problems—such as slacking off at work or resolving personal confli...

Alice, Sweet Alice (1976), directed by Alfred Sole, is a chilling and atmospheric psychological horror film that has cemented its place as a cult classic. Released during a golden age of slasher films, this movie stands out for its unsettling blend of religious imagery, family dysfunction, and brutal violence. With its eerie cinematography, effective performances, and shocking twists, Alice, Sweet Alice remains an underrated gem in the horror genre. This review delves into the film’s story, themes, technical aspects, and its lasting impact. Set in 1961 New Jersey, Alice, Sweet Alice centers around a deeply dysfunctional Catholic family. The narrative follows Alice Spages (Paula Sheppard), a troubled 12-year-old girl who exhibits signs of jealousy and aggression toward her younger sister, Karen (Brooke Shields, in her film debut). Karen is the favorite child, beloved by their mother, Catherine (Linda Miller), and adored by the local priest, Father Tom (Rudolph Willrich). However, during...

When The Wayans Bros. first premiered on The WB in 1995, it marked an era where sitcoms dominated television, offering lighthearted humor, physical comedy, and family-centered narratives. Starring real-life siblings Shawn Wayans and Marlon Wayans, the show brought a fresh and irreverent comedic style to audiences. While it may not have received the same level of mainstream recognition as some of its contemporaries, The Wayans Bros. remains a beloved cult classic. Now, with The Wayans Bros.: The Complete Series available for fans to revisit, it's time to take a look at how the show holds up today. The series follows the misadventures of two brothers, Shawn and Marlon Williams, who live in Harlem and work at their father's newsstand in a Manhattan mall. Shawn (Shawn Wayans) is the more responsible and business-savvy of the duo, while Marlon (Marlon Wayans) is the energetic, free-spirited prankster whose antics often land them in trouble. Their father, John "Pops" Willia...

"Wicked," the 2024 film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, has been one of the most anticipated cinematic events in recent years. Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his work on "Crazy Rich Asians," the film brings to life the untold story of the witches of Oz, offering a fresh perspective on the classic tale. With a star-studded cast, including Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, "Wicked" aims to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Set in the magical land of Oz, "Wicked" explores the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, a green-skinned outcast with extraordinary magical abilities, and Glinda, a popular and ambitious sorcery student. The narrative delves into their personal journeys, societal expectations, and the events leading to Elphaba's transformation into the "Wicked Witch of the West" and Glinda's rise as the "Good Witch." The film explores themes such as prejudice, power, ...