The Fear of God: A Horror Movie Podcast

We have another fun interview to share with you this week about a recent independent release that quickly caught our attention. AFFECTION tells the story of Ellie (Jessica Rothe) who awakens one night in an unfamiliar bed next to a husband she doesn't recognize (Joseph Cross) and with a daughter she doesn't remember (Julianna Layne). She then begins to experience a cycle of sudden, severe tremors and horrifying disorientations that point to a whole other life. What follows is a wholly surprising scenario of science-fiction, horror, and obsession. It's a twisty thriller rooted in deep emotional resonance and featuring three outstanding performances.Reed and Vera had the chance to sit down with writer/director BT Meza and special effects supervisor Dan Rebert about their remarkable film that hit theaters May 8th. We hope you'll check it out and we hope you enjoy this interview!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our series examining non-English language films (#speakingintongues) by looking at an exploration of childhood impulses that is as harrowing as it is heartbreaking. THE INNOCENTS, written and directed by Eskil Vogt, tells the story of four young children in a small community who suddenly discover that they are developing strange powers. What follows confronts our very concept of innocence and reveals some compelling observations about the ways that children learn how to navigate their little worlds.We're joined by third chair and Ghoul Scout troop leader Vera Goudie to discuss this captivating film about some of our earliest -- and worst -- impulses. Also featuring a Patron-only segment about DARK, Season 3, Episode 3, it's a thoughtful and often vulnerable conversation about our individual power and they ways leverage it to meet our needs and we really hope you enjoy it.7:16 - AnnouncementsPatron Only Segment: DARK, Season 3, Episode 315:26 - THE INNOCENTSSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a bonus interview for you this week about a recent book release that is unique and fascinating. Matt Rogerson is a film historian and health researcher who has written extensively about Italian cinema, particularly those films which center on faith and horror. His latest book, FULCI'S INFERNO: FAITH IN THE FILMS OF A HORROR AND GIALLO AUTEUR, examines filmmaker Lucio Fulci and his lifelong wrestling with the idea of hell through his films.Rogerson's book acts not only as a kind of biography for Lucio Fulci through a careful examination of his work, but also as a richly compelling examination of the way concepts of Hell have been used both creatively to express deeply-rooted questions about faith but also as a means through religious structures to control and manipulate people. It's a compassionately written and thoroughly researched exploration of how the ideas of Hell informed various perspectives of Italian filmmakers, many of whom were acting creatively in direct confrontation to the religious establishments of their day.Reed sits down with Matt to discuss this dynamic and the ways that Lucio Fulci's creative output has been largely dismissed and ignored and now deserves a refreshed examination. We hope you'll check out Matt's book and we really hope you enjoy this richly informed conversation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our series on international language films (#SpeakinginTongues) with a film that is as profound and compelling as it is upsetting and brutal. Kim Jee-woon's I SAW THE DEVIL is a blistering exploration of vengeance and violence, frequently ranking in lists of the greatest films of the 2010s. It focuses on a serial killer named Jang Kyung-chul (Choi Min-sik) who viciously murders a woman one evening after finding her car broken down on the side of the road. What he doesn't expect is that his victim's fiancée is a highly trained secret agent named Soo-hyeon (Lee Byung-hun). Soo-hyeon quickly determines not only to find his beloved's killer, but to subject him to the same kinds of pain and torment that he had unleashed upon his victims.What follows is an exquisitely constructed interrogation of our concepts of justice and our often-insatiable thirst for revenge in the face of tragic suffering. It is smart, thoughtful, and often deeply troubling. It also has an undeniable moral fortitude that few other revenge narratives have ever quite been able to achieve. We invite two clerical voices to help us unpack the film's wealth of themes: Justi Schunior and Josh Raugh. Their respective experiences in vocational ministry offer a unique perspective on an undeniably potent subject, one we're quite certain you will find challenging and inspiring.Also featuring a Patron-only discussion of DARK, Season 3, Episode 2, this is a hearty and heartfelt episode that we really hope you enjoy.Patron Only Segment: DARK, Season 3, Episode 26:39 - Two Questions with Josh Raugh11:41 - Two Questions with Justi Schunior17:59 - Who is My Neighbor?39:56 - I SAW THE DEVILSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a fun bonus for you this week! We're trying something new (borrowing from what other shows have done in the past) and making a contest out of 2026's Summer Movie season.Gorey Gamer Matt Murray put together 15 films that are coming to theaters from May through August and Nathan and Reed have to predict what they'll make at the box office in their domestic opening weekend as well as what their Metacritic score will be. Consider this your Summer Movie Preview Guide with a fun, competitive twist.Play along with us and we hope you enjoy!2:36 - The Rules of the Game5:35 - HOKUM9:21 - MORTAL KOMBAT II14:52 - OBSESSION18:28 - PASSENGER23:16 - STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU30:53 - BACKROOMS37:07 - SCARY MOVIE41:45 - DISCLOSURE DAY47:01 - Snack Break51:27 - TOY STORY 556:44 - SUPERGIRL1:01:15 - THE ODYSSEY1:07:51 - EVIL DEAD BURN1:12:12 - SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY1:20:18 - ICE CREAM MAN1:24:53 - INSIDIOUS - OUT OF THE FURTHER1:29:54 - Wrap-UpSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week in the FoG we revive a fan-favorite series that's been requested for years now. In 2019, largely in solidarity with our American immigrant neighbors, we covered a series of international language films we called Speaking in Tongues. The first two volumes came out in rather quick succession, but now -- seven years later -- we kick off volume three with the debut feature film from Academy Award winning director Guillermo del Toro. CRONOS tells the simple fable of Jesus Gris, a grandfather and antiques dealer who stumbles upon a strange device which clasps and cuts into his hand. Soon, Gris begins to change in ways he can't explain, setting him down a grotesque path of pain and gruesome transformation.We're joined by friend of the show and fellow film critic Thomas Manning to unpack this tightly constructed gem, which showcases both the early filmmaking talents and thematic interests of the landmark director.Also featuring a discussion with fellow podcast co-host (of the podcast 1ofmystories) Lindsey Dunn about the first episode of DARK, Season 3. We covered Dark Seasons 1 & 2 in our original Speaking in Tongues series. We're excited to be revisiting this series and we really hope you enjoy this kickoff episode!Patron Only Segment: DARK, Season 3, Episode 17:55 - CRONOSSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We conclude our mini-series of adaptations from last year based upon the work of Stephen King with the film that many Constant Readers have been waiting to see for decades. THE LONG WALK was famously the first novel King ever wrote (although not the first he published) and fans have been curious about an adaptation for years. Francis Lawrence (of the Hunger Games films) stepped in to adapt this bleak and deeply humanistic examination of men putting themselves on the line for a grueling walk in which only one of them can emerge the winner.Starring David Jonsson, Cooper Hoffman, and Mark Hamill as the villainous voice driving each of the participants towards inevitable doom with the promise of untold riches, The Long Walk is a blistering portrait of the ways in which we surrender ourselves to systems literally designed to destroy us. It's also an occasionally disarming picture of the way shared trauma can bond a community, and how friendships can be forged when we see those around us as more than merely a number.We're joined by friends of the show Joe George and Kate Micham for a thoughtful and open dialogue about the limits of endurance and the stubborn persistence of hope and love. Also featuring a Patron-only WHATCHA segment, this is one we really hope you enjoy.Patron Only Segment: Whatcha Watchin' / Readin' / Listenin' To8:37 - THE LONG WALKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a bonus interview episode for you this week that is a ton of fun. We last welcomed writer/director Pierre Tsigaridis to the show when we discussed his film Traumatika. We welcome him back now to discuss his upcoming film, FRANKIE, MANIAC WOMAN, which hits theaters on April 24th. Co-written with Dina Silva, who stars in the film, Frankie, Maniac Woman tells the blisteringly funny and gore-soaked tale of Francis Ramirez (you can call her Frankie) who has aspirations of being a singer-songwriter in LA. But when she is bombarded by childhood trauma, internalized misogyny, and industry body-shaming she reaches her ultra-violent breaking point.The film is fearless, presenting a parade of violence with almost gleeful abandon. But amidst its jaw-dropping extremities is a remarkable undercurrent of hysterical comedy and a disarming thread of emotional depth as Frankie battles her conflicting impulses, hopes, and ambitions. Silva's performance is volcanic, creating a truly unique character that is simultaneously endearing and intimidating. And it's all anchored by the steady directorial hand (and supporting performance) from Tsigaridis.Our conversation with them about this film is full of laughter, just like the film they've made, and with an equally surprising amount of vulnerable heart. It's a film that took us by surprise and we think will do the same for you. So, check your local listings for Frankie, Maniac Woman on April 24th and enjoy this chat we had with Pierre and Dina!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Continuing our series on films from last year adapted from the work of Stephen King, we lace up our sneakers for Edgar Wright's THE RUNNING MAN. Originally brought to life in the 80s starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Edgar Wright's refreshed adaptation puts Glen Powell at the center of a nationwide game show manhunt. Wright's film is far more faithful narratively to King's novel, although the tone is far more energetic and lighter on its feet than King's bleak source material.Reed is joined this week by Gorey Gamer Matt Murray and Maven of Discord Jocee Worley to unpack what works and doesn't about this latest adaptation, as well as exploring the eerie ways it predicted social and cultural trends that have become saturated in our current landscape.Also featuring a Patron-only Whatcha Playin' segment, we hope you enjoy our jaunt through The Running Man!Patron Only Segment: Whatcha Playin'3:21 - THE RUNNING MANSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's a different kind of conversation this week and one we really think you're going to love. We're continuing our mini-series looking at four films from last year which were all adapted from the work of Stephen King. If we told you that THE LIFE OF CHUCK was adapted by Mike Flanagan from a novella by Stephen King, you'd probably imagine a drastically different movie than what it is.The Life of Chuck is unconventional both narratively and structurally. It's a story told in reverse, focusing on both the individual (Chuck, played by Tom Hiddleston) and the communal. It explores the wondrous mystery and stark fragility of life, including the ways we all influence each other and overlap our little private universes with one another. It's deeply emotional, aggressively non-cynical, and brimming with existential hope. We invite friends of the show Sarah Welch-Larson and Abby Olcese into a very open-hearted and frequently vulnerable conversation about spiritual, emotional, physical, and communal realities that we all encounter, and which often drive us through profound loneliness and into unimaginable hope. We found the discussion to be both challenging and ministering.We hope you'll find the same, and we hope you'll enjoy it.3:28 - Becoming Alien by Sarah Welch-Larson, Second Edition!Patron Only Segment: Whatcha Watchin' / Readin' / Listenin' To?15:37 - THE LIFE OF CHUCKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a unique and special interview for you this week. Starting this month, Charlotte's Independent Picture House features a monthly series highlighting the essential films of legendary director Alfred Hitchcock. The series was co-curated by Sam Shapiro, whose career as an educator and film archivist for the Charlotte Mecklenberg public library permitted him countless opportunities to study and educate about the work of the legendary Master of Suspense.Reed sits down with Sam to survey the cinema master's work, from his early silent films to his iconic masterpieces. It's a vibrant and surprisingly thorough conversation, touching on many of the Hitchcock's best and most interesting films. It not only serves as a promotion for IPH's upcoming series on Hitchcock's films, but also as an introduction to what keeps Hitchcock at the top of lists of cinema's most important and influential filmmakers.If you're a fan of Hitchcock's work, we think you'll love this conversation. If you're only familiar with a couple of his major films, we think you'll be fascinated by the places you might venture next. And if you're in the Charlotte area this year, be sure to check out the films in the series THE ANTICIPATION OF FEAR: HITCHCOCK'S ESSENTIAL FILMS at the Independent Picture House.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We start a brand new mini-series this week examining a handful of Stephen King adaptations which were all released last year. The first of these is also one of the most unconventional. Directed by Osgood Perkins, THE MONKEY takes a King short story about fate and recurring trauma and turns it into an absurdist dark comedy about death. Impressively well-made and often disarmingly humorous, The Monkey deftly executes outlandish destruction but struggles to balance the tone of its looney toons death sequences with its occasional stabs at earnestness. But in the end, like life, it seems to be admitting that fate not only sits beyond our control, but perhaps also beyond our conception of control.We're joined by bestselling author and friend of the show Matt Ruff to unpack all of our thoughts on Osgood Perkins' The Monkey in this brisk and fun episode that we really hope you enjoy.5:34 - Catching up with Matt Ruff18:27 - THE MONKEYSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Come sit by the fire! It's time for another Ghoul Scouts edition of The Fear of God! Vera and Jess are joined by Jocee Worley and Penny Rouse venture over the rainbow for this decidedly darker and more frightening sequel to The Wizard of Oz: RETURN TO OZ.Plagued by production delays and studio misgivings, Return to Oz was a major disappointment at the time of its release in 1985. But it developed a cult status over the decades, fueled by innumerable children who remember watching it when they were younger and being terrified by its bleaker story and nightmarish visuals. Starting a new series of films that scared us as kids -- and featuring a Patron-only scary short story! -- this is a vibrant and hearty conversation, brought to you as only the Ghoul Scouts can bring it.We hope you enjoy this return to the campfire and this Return to Oz!Patron Only Segment: Scary Campfire Story: The Green Ribbon7:25 - RETURN TO OZSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In what might be (maybe) our final uniquely focused conversation about Ryan Coogler's landmark, Oscar-winning film Sinners, we sit down with Dr. De'Anna Daniels. Dr. Daniels is assistant professor of Africana and religious studies with a PhD in religion in the African-American religion concentration from Rice University. Her diverse scholarly interests include black religion, the intersection of gender and sexuality, black speculative fiction and horror, popular and visual culture, art, and aesthetics. She brings her extensive experience and thought to the broader conversation surrounding the film Sinners, which has been a focal point of her interests and studies since she first saw it. She has already done impressive work to present the film within academic environments to help people engage with it in a deeper, more curious, and more richly contextual way.We were honored to be joined by her as well as friend of the show and fellow professor Brandon Grafius to dive even deeper into the world of Sinners and unpack the layers of its relationship between horror and religion. This conversation is insightful and challenging, digging deep into the roots of both religion and horror traditions to ask better questions of ourselves and our presumptions as we engage with not only Coogler's film, but art and horror on the whole.It's a lively and vibrant dialogue that we hope and believe you're really going to enjoy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This past Sunday was the 98th Oscars ceremony and it was filled with reasons to celebrate and reasons to debate. Conan O'Brien hosted a show which pitted two stellar films -- Sinners and One Battle After Another -- against each other to claim the top prizes in cinema recognition.We gathered together again with Claire Lechtenberg, Director of Development & Marketing for Charlotte's Independent Picture House, to sit with us and discuss the highs and lows of this year's ceremony: our favorite awards, our frustrations, the rhythm of the show itself, and what we predict will be next for both the Oscars and this year's nominees.It's a brisk and lively discussion about this year's highest cinematic accolades and we hope you enjoy it!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a final coda to our series looking back at some prominent films from 2025 (#2025stillalive), we're ending in a similar fashion to how we began. We started this series with a pair of films in one episode (Together + Companion), and we end by discussing Ben Leonberg's unconventional canine-centric chiller GOOD BOY and the latest film from Danny and Michael Philippou, BRING HER BACK.Both films deal with characters (both human and canine) who experience profound desperation as people they love are lost or threatened. Good Boy is told entirely from the perspective of Indy, a dog who senses a malevolent presence he can't understand threatening his owner. Bring Her Back tells the story of Andy and Piper, two step-siblings who enter into foster care after the sudden and horrific death of their father. They soon learn that their foster mother, Laura (Sally Hawkins), has recently lost a child and not all might be as it seems in their new environment. The films have varying degrees of effectiveness and a wide array of different interests, but each are compelling in their own right.We're joined by third chair and Ghoul Scout Troop leader Vera Goudie to explore these two pieces, their interesting creative choices, and the surprising ways they reflect starkly different approaches to grief, fear, and desperation. It's one of our heartiest and most heartfelt discussions and we really hope you enjoy it!5:43 - Whatcha Watchin' / Readin' / Listenin' To?32:35 - GOOD BOY + BRING HER BACKSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As part of our continued extensive coverage of Ryan Coogler's landmark film Sinners (nominated for a record-breaking 16 Oscars this weekend, including Best Picture), we invite back de'Angelo Dia. Dia is the Director of Education and Community Engagement for Charlotte's Independent Picture House, and describes himself as a theopoet and mystic whose work explores culture and moral imagination through poetry, performance art, and photography.Dia sat down with Nathan to further explore the invitation Ryan Coogler extends to us through his film Sinners, specifically how it becomes more than a singular director's vision and broadens to a truly collaborative and community-centric work. This fascinating conversation connects dots both cinematically and culturally for the ways the film is pushing an important discussion forward, provoking us to view ourselves in unconventional ways.It's a vibrant dialogue that we hope will enhance your appreciation for Coogler's film and for the moment in which it arrives. We hope you enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The first season of Stranger Things released just a month before the first episode of The Fear of God. Though the proximities are nothing beyond coincidental, Stranger Things has always loomed a bit over our show in ways that were often surprising, funny, fun, and occasionally lovely.As we've been marching through the rewatch of Season 5 for our Patrons, we now wanted to close things off with one last Stranger Things party. We gathered together a host of guests from previous patron segments -- Vera Goudie, Charlie Baber, Josh Raugh, Matt Murray, and Lindsey Dunn -- to share our final takeaways from the final episode of the cultural phenomenon's final season. We also play a highly competitive game of Stranger Things-themed Trivial Pursuit!So, let's take one last trip to the Upside Down, fight a few lingering demogorgons, and roll the dice on one last DND campaign as we all share our closing thoughts on STRANGER THINGS. Enjoy!2:14 - Introductions and Welcomes4:20 - FoG History and Stranger Things7:14 - Trivial Pursuit Round 117:34 - Stranger Things Finale50:18 - Trivial Pursuit Round 259:20 - Stranger Things Themes1:31:09 - Trivial Pursuit Round 31:45:38 - That Ain't Right, Stranger Things1:57:08 - Trivial Pursuit Final Round2:12:56 - Final TakeawaysSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As an extension of our coverage of Ryan Coogler's masterful film Sinners, this week we present to you a special conversation with author and professor, Dr. Yvonne Chireau. Dr Chireau has spent much of her academic career studying religious history and supernatural traditions, particularly within Africana religions, African American religious tradition, and American folklore. She has written extensively about Hoodoo practices and the African American Conjuring tradition, which led to her directly providing her consultant expertise on Coogler's film.In this fascinating conversation, she sits down with Nathan and friend of the show (and fellow author and professor) Brandon Grafius to discuss the complexity of religious expression within the film Sinners, as well as illuminating the ways these ancient religious practices have often been deeply influential and just as deeply misunderstood, particularly within film and the horror genre at large. It's a riveting and enlightening dialogue that we hope will more fully enrich your appreciation for the subject, as well as for Dr. Chireau's work and Ryan Coogler's film. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a fun surprise interview for you this week about a film that made tremendous waves at last year's Fantastic Fest. DOLLY is a gleefully disturbing, unflinching, gore-drenched love letter to every horror film you had to sneak into your basement to watch after everybody else went to bed. Filmed in classic 16mm, it tells the story of Macy (Fabianne Therese) who while on a woodland excursion with her partner (Seann William Scott) encounters a monstrous figure (Max the Impaler as "Dolly") who abducts her with the intent of raisin her as their own child.It’s a vintage shot of pulp-novel flavored nightmare fuel, beholden to the greats but carving out a path of its own. Reed had the privilege to sit down with both the co-writer and director Rod Blackhurst and the star Max the Impaler to discuss the design and craft of this stylish film, as well as some of the surprisingly thoughtful ways it plays around with the conventions of slasher thriller tropes.DOLLY is in theaters exclusively as of March 6th. We hope you'll check it out and we hope you enjoy this interview!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have an epic episode for you this week about an epic film from last year (#2025stillalive). Ryan Coogler has been a striking creative visionary in cinema for years now. With SINNERS, he unleashed a tour de force of creative storytelling, groundbreaking behind-the-scenes negotiations, and a powerhouse commentary on culture, art, and history. Sinners has now been nominated for a record-breaking 16 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and continues to find and captivate new audiences daily.We invited a panel of friends and FoGgers to discuss this film with us, including returning friends of the show Chris Clark and Natashia Deon (attorney, professor, and author of The Perishing) and new-to-the-FoG guest Shaherah White (entrepreneur and host of the Love Manifested podcast). Together we dive deep into the themes and the cultural touchstones of Coogler's impressive film, including what it has to say about freedom, power, temptation, and art. It's one of our heartiest and most compelling discussions of this entire series.Also featuring returning guest Charlie Baber to discuss STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 7 on a Patron-only segment, this is a hearty and full conversation that we really hope you enjoy.4:39 - Two Questions with Shaherah WhitePatron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 710:55 - SINNERSSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our look back at some of the most noteworthy and interesting horror films of 2025 (#2025stillalive) with an examination of Steven Soderbergh's unconventional haunted family drama, PRESENCE. Shown entirely from the perspective of a mysterious entity moving among them, Presence displays the escalating tensions of a family as they settle into a new home. As tensions escalate between the nuclear family members, and pressures begin to boil from both internal and external conflicts, the titular presence watches them all. Who, or what, is this presence? Why is it here? What does it want or need? And in what ways, if any, will it be able to affect the fate of this family?We're joined by FoGger friends both new and old -- Nicole Amato, Will Frank, and (making his debut) Mike Runyon -- to discuss the film's fascinating thematic interests about time, connection, regret, grief, fear, outrage, and (possibly) redemption. It's a fascinating film and an even more fascinating conversation. Also featuring a Patron-only segment where Nathan is joined by Nicole Amato and (also making his debut) Josh Heake to discuss STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 6, this is a hearty and lively conversation that we really hope you enjoy.4:26 - Two Questions with Mike Runyon12:04 - Whatcha Playin'?Patron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 628:31 - PRESENCESee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our series looking back at some of the most noteworthy horror movies of 2025 (#2025stillalive) by discussing the latest feature from Josh Ruben (of Werewolves Within). HEART EYES is a rather lightweight film with an ambitious goal: to make a film that is both a romantic comedy and a slasher. Although the balance is sometimes a bit off, the film impressively succeeds at being funny, charming, suspenseful, and fun. We're joined by returning guests, novelists Nick Medina and Christina Henry, to discuss what works and doesn't about this unique cocktail as well as what the film might entice us to think about in this age of trivial social media sentiments and our tendencies to romanticize dangerous things.Also featuring friend of the show Andrew Nelson in a Patron-only segment discussing STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 5, this is a fun and breezy conversation that we really hope you'll enjoy.3:28 - Upcoming works from Christina Henry and Nick Medina7:10 - Whatcha Watchin' / Readin' / Listenin' ToPatron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 522:00 - HEART EYESSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have another special interview episode for you today for something that's not directly horror-related, but definitely falls within our framework of examining what scares us to find what saves us. Recently, Nathan was invited to host an author discussion at Troubadour Booksellers in Charlotte with author and pastor Greg Jarrell, whose book OUR TRESPASSES: WHITE CHURCHES AND THE TAKING OF AMERICAN NEIGHBORHOODS paints a sobering portrait of the ways that "race, geography, policy, and religion have created haunted landscapes in Charlotte, North Carolina, and throughout the United States." The conversation was so strong, Nathan invited Jarrell to share his book with us on the show.As was observed of Jarrell's work, he "brings receipts" for a conversation that is compelling, challenging, and thought-provoking about the moral gravity of having displaced and devalued our neighbors, both systematically and ideologically. Offering substantive research and thoughtful analysis, Jarrell provides not only an insightful portrait of how we got here, but what avenues might be open to us for lasting change.We hope you'll check out Greg Jarrell's book and we hope you enjoy this conversation!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Our lookback series at some of the best films of 2025 (#2025stillalive) continues this week with the sequel to Scott Derrickson's 2021 film The Black Phone. Picking up 4 years after the events of the first film, BLACK PHONE 2 tells a decisively scarier and more spiritually conscious story about Gwen and Finn making their way to a Christian camp in the mountains to confront the mysterious, haunting, lingering power of The Grabber. It's a film of disarming potency, with both a strong emotional and spiritual resonance, making it one of the strongest films of Derrickson's career.We're joined by FoG favorites Steven Beckley and Blake Collier, as well as welcoming a new guest to the show: long-time FoG community member Abby Dewsnap. Also featuring a Patron-only segment where we discuss STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 4 (with yet another first-time guest Josh Raugh), this is a hearty and heart-filled episode that we really hope you enjoy!5:09 - Two Questions with Abby DewsnapPatron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 411:48 - BLACK PHONE 2See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have another special interview episode with you this week featuring director Darren Lynn Bousman discussing his latest film, TWISTED, available right now to buy or rent on VOD. Starring Djimon Hounsou and Lauren LaVera, Twisted tells the story of a resourceful con artist (LaVera) whose con involves flipping houses they don't own and pocketing the deposits. When her latest mark brings her in contact with a respected surgeon (Hounsou), she soon discovers that he has secrets and intentions which will flip the situation back on her and her partner (Mia Healey) in ways they never could have imagined.The plot is full of surprises, reminiscent of classic pulp thrillers, and has a complex moral ambiguity at its center. Bousman sat down with Reed to discuss exploring this tale and blurring the lines (both thematically and aesthetically) in creative ways.Twisted is available as of 2/6/26 to rent or own on VOD and we hope you enjoy our conversation about it!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our look back at some of the strongest and most interesting horror films of 2025 (#2025stillalive) by examining a decisively unconventional and deeply affecting horror film called THE RULE OF JENNY PEN. Starring Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow in powerhouse performances, The Rule of Jenny Pen tells the story of an elderly judge (Rush) who, following a debilitating stroke, finds himself in a long-term care facility that is menaced by a maniacal bully (Lithgow). As his physical condition worsens and the staff become increasingly less likely to intervene, he finds every inch of his perceived power and authority stripped away from him. It is a harrowing and thought-provoking film of truly unique impact.We're joined by a host of FoG friends and Final Girl gamers: Paula Deming, Meg Oak, and Julie Ahern. Together we unpack all of the various terrors and hopes that this film has to offer, resulting in one of our heartiest and most vigorous conversations ever. Also featuring a Patron-only segment where we continue our journey through STRANGER THINGS Season 5, this is a lengthy but deeply thoughtful conversation that we really hope you enjoy.4:32 - Favorite Final Girl Stories19:53 - Recent Favorite Board Game PlaysPatron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 334:42 - THE RULE OF JENNY PENSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For the cinema fan, the Oscars remain the pinnacle of awards recognition for achievement in film. Since their opening in June of 2022, The Independent Picture House in Charlotte has managed to carve out a space that includes all of the best parts of going to the movies by focusing on bringing the community together through film.We're joined this week by Claire Lechtenberg, the Director of Development and Marketing for IPH, to tell us more about what this unique and engaging cinematic space has to offer. And because IPH are hosting a major Oscars celebration on March 15th, we thought it would be fun to invite her on to talk about the 2026 slate of Academy nominees.We chat disappointments, surprises, accolades, and bewilderments. Plus, we provide you with a list of the essential films you should check out before the ceremony. This is a really fun conversation and we hope you enjoy it!2:51 - Two Questions with Claire Lechtenberg10:59 - Claire's History with IPH20:16 - Special Events at IPH27:59 - The Oscars at IPH32:23 - 2026 Oscars Nominees46:57 - Surprises and Disappointments1:00:07 - Essential Oscars ViewingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our look back at some horror films from 2025 with a film that's already been discussed a good bit on the show through interviews and Whatcha segments. Adam Cesare's book CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD first hit Reed's radar when it was published back in 2020. He had already been pitching it for years as "Scream: The Novel". Naturally, when Eli Craig (of Tucker and Dale Vs Evil fame) directed the adaptation, we had to cover it! Last year, we had the chance to sit down with both Adam Cesare and (briefly) Eli Craig to discuss the film. And this week we invite back friends of the show A J Porfirio and Evan Derrick of Van Ryder Games (creator of the smash board game hit Final Girl) to discuss it in all its spoiler glory.Also joining us is Gorey Gamer Matt Murray (who also visits Hawkins with us in a Patron-only segment about Stranger Things Season 5, Episode 2). On this hearty episode, we not only discuss all the clowns in all the cornfields, we also play a Board Game trivia contest and share the latest updates about FINAL GIRL SERIES 4, which launches on Kickstarter Feb 4.So, kick back and enjoy this lively conversation that we really hope you'll enjoy!5:14 - Final Girl Series 4 Kickstarter UpdatePatron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 218:43 - Board Game Trivia!27:32 - CLOWN IN A CORNFIELDSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a very special conversation to share with you that, although not explicitly horror-centric, absolutely sits in the landscape of "exploring what scares us to find what saves us." In 2014, friend of the show, author, and ethicist Dr. David Gushee published CHANGING OUR MIND, a thoughtfully researched, sensitive, and bold call for the Evangelical church to rethink traditional religious teaching about LGBTQ+ inclusion. Incorporating scriptural exegesis, crucial historical context, and scientific and sociological developments, Dr. Gushee makes the compelling case for us to re-examine how we've treated, talked about, and engaged with the LGBTQ+ community as a body of faith. The work was challenging, controversial, and -- for countless congregations -- extremely helpful.Nathan Rouse first read the text shortly after its publication, which he describes as "giving his theology permission to go where his spirit was leading". It was largely the book that prompted and inspired Nathan to first invite Dr. Gushee as a guest on the show. Now, all these years later, Dr. Gushee joins Nathan to discuss the book's central interests and share the heart behind its key convictions. It's a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation that we hope will both challenge and inspire you in equal measure.Please note, this episode contains a moment of brief, uncensored language.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're proud to present to our first film director interview of 2026. Andrew Vogel's feature directorial debut is titled HERMAN, and it tells the story of a reclusive mountain man (the Herman of the title, portrayed wonderfully by Colin Ward) who finds himself accosted by numerous visitors one stormy night. As reality and sanity become tenuous and slippery, Herman's late-night guests force him to confront his past -- and himself.The film is intimate and thought-provoking, exploring psychological and spiritual complexities in thoughtful and challenging ways. Andrew sat down with us to discuss the film's inspirations and production, and to provide insights into its inventive approach to the subjects of memory and self-perception.Herman is a disarmingly thoughtful and unsettling film, which touches on familiar subjects in an unconventional way and asks some surprising questions about faith, grief, and redemption. We were privileged to have this time to talk with Andrew about his film. We hope you all check it out and that you enjoy this discussion!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our traditional lookback at some of the best films of 2025 -- #2025stillalive -- by discussing the galvanizing sophomore feature from Barbarian's Zach Cregger: WEAPONS. Stemming from a premise reminiscent of The Twilight Zone, Weapons weaves a textured and inventive story about secrets and influences. Cregger's skills at keeping his audience on their toes (and occasionally holding their breath) make this film as entertaining as it is thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. It also features some impressive performances from Julia Garner, Josh Brolin, Austin Abrams, Alden Ehrenreich, and a truly unforgettable tour de force from Amy Madigan. We're joined by friend of the show, author and professor Brandon Grafius to help us navigate the film's many narrative and thematic twists and turns.Also featuring a Patron-only segment where we're joined by fellow NCFCA critic Lindsey Dunn to discuss STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 1, this is a hearty and thoughtful conversation that we really hope you'll enjoy.Patron Only Segment: STRANGER THINGS, Season 5, Episode 1 - The Crawl7:35 - WEAPONSSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're kicking off our slate of episodes looking back at the best horror films of 2025 with a double-feature conversation about two films which each took relationships to a horrific level. TOGETHER, written and directed by Michael Shanks and starring real-life married couple Dave Franco and Alison Brie, explores elements of codependency and insecurities within relationships by serving up a healthy dose of body horror in a literal relational union. Meanwhile, COMPANION, written and directed by Drew Hancock and starring Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid, tackles issues of objectification, power dynamics, and control within relationships by filtering a thriller-vibe narrative through a distinctly technological lens.Both films tackle issues of wholeness, self-determination, autonomy, and commitment and we invited longtime FoGger and Ghoul Scout Vera Goudie to discuss all of the ways the horror in these films reflects the risks -- and sometimes the rewards -- of complicated relationship dynamics.Also featuring a Patron-only segment where the three of us briefly share our thoughts on the landmark series finale of STRANGER THINGS, this is an open and thoughtful conversation that we really hope you enjoy.Patron Only Segment: Takes on the Stranger Things Series Finale7:51 - TOGETHER + COMPANIONSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We hope you all had a wonderful holiday season, full of warmth and joy and rest. We ourselves took a bit of a hiatus the past couple of months, releasing a handful of specialty episodes, collections, and interviews.But 2026 is now upon us and with it, we are gearing up for another full year at the FoG! To dust off the cobwebs and prepare for the upcoming slate of episodes, we tagged in on New Years Day to discuss our respective holidays, share some things we've been watching, and reminisce about 2025 on the show. We also look forward to the new year and what we're looking forward to for this year's films.Next week, we start our regularly scheduled program, but until then, we hope you enjoy this off-format chat and we hope you've had a very Happy New Year.7:17 - How were your holidays?15:56 - What did you get to watch?24:41 - What were your top 3 things about FoG 2025?41:23 - What are you looking forward to in 2026?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Merry Christmas, friends and FoGgers! We're still in our off-season for regular episodes, but in keeping with recent tradition we're jumping in again to cover an adaptation of Charles Dickens' immortal classic, A Christmas Carol.This time, we're covering a decisively less traditional and straight-forward version of the story with a conversation about Bharat Nalluri's film THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS, based on the book by Les Standiford. The story focuses on Dickens himself (played by Dan Stevens) who, following a disappointing streak of low-selling works, hurls himself into a swift bid for success by attempting to write and publish a small book for Christmas within 6 short weeks. The film explores Dickens' various personal troubles, including tensions with his father and his peers, and the ways in which the creation of his timeless story pointed to a personal redemption and sparked a fervor for a holiday that too-long been ignored. It also deploys a creative narrative device by having the characters from A Christmas Carol blur the lines between Dickens' imagination and his experiences.Our conversation also features a brief excursion examining the classic animated short MICKEY'S CHRISTMAS CAROL and a Patron-only return of the long absent WHATCHA segment, this is a lively and heartfelt discussion about the ways the stories in our hearts can teach and guide us and how the season of Christmas can point us to so much more than a mere celebration.We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!Patron Only Segment: Whatcha Watchin' / Readin' / Listenin' To (Task, It: Welcome to Derry, The Chair Company, and Freakier Friday)6:53 - The Christmas Carol Tradition11:56 - MICKEY'S CHRISTMAS CAROL27:56 - THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMASSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As difficult as it is to believe, STRANGER THINGS is coming to an end. The show premiered just one month before The Fear of God Podcast debuted, which feels difficult to fathom for a number of reasons. Stranger Things has also directly influenced the way we cover TV media on the show, yielding to segments like #tvguideposts where we cover one episode of a show at a time.What you are about to hear is our complete coverage of Stranger Things Season 4, which consisted of a focused discussion of each episode with a host of different guests, both old and (at the time) new. We then gathered together some friends for a full discussion of the season as a whole (and to play a very fun Stranger Things Trivial Pursuit game).So, as we all prepare to bid Stranger Things farewell, acquaint yourself with how we felt about the last season. Yes, it's a lot of conversation but it is also briefer than Season 4 itself, believe it or not. Roll the dice on your favorite DND campaign, pop that Surfer Boy pizza in the oven, or just snag yourself some roller skates and a very metal electric guitar. Either way, we hope you enjoy this run up memory lane hill as we present the Complete Collection of Stranger Things Season 4 in the FoG1:00 - Episode 1, The Hellfire Club27:06 - Episode 2, Vecna's Curse56:54 - Episode 3, The Monster and the Superhero1:26:43 - Episode 4, Dear Billy1:55:26 - Episode 5, The Nina Project2:19:35 - Episode 6, The Dive2:54:09 - Episode 7, The Massacre at Hawkins Lab3:20:30 - Episode 8, Papa3:49:39 - Episode 9, The Piggyback (intros and summaries)4:00:48 - Stranger Things Trivial Pursuit Round 14:09:49 - Episode 9, The Piggyback (favorites and least favorites)4:57:55 - Stranger Things Trivial Pursuit, Conclusion5:15:33 - Stranger Things, Season 4See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We hope you're having a wonderful holiday season! While we're in our off-season as the year winds to a close, we have another special episode for you this week, courtesy of the famous Ghoul Scouts!Vera, Jess, and Jocee take over the show again this week to discuss the 1989 Winona Ryder starring satire, HEATHERS. Sharply written and tackling some heavy topics with remarkable intention, Heathers tells the story of Veronica Sawyer (Ryder) who attends Westerburg High amidst an ungodly number of cliques and an even more pervasive collection of girls named Heather. When JD (Christian Slater) comes into her life, he shakes everything up -- including stacking up an actual body count. Heathers deserves a bit of discretion given some of its potentially triggering subject matter, but it is so thoughtfully scripted and skillfully constructed that it feels astoundingly relevant even after more than 35 years.Also featuring a fun, throwback, Patron-only segment featuring an 80s teen-zine personality quiz, this is a lively and insightful conversation that we hope you enjoy!Patron Only Segment: Which Heather Are You?5:45 - HEATHERSSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to another special interview with writers and directors Peter Hall and Paul Gandersman about their new film MAN FINDS TAPE, which hits theaters and VOD on December 5th.Man Finds Tape tells a richly textured story about two siblings -- Lynn (Kelsey Pribilski), who is a documentary filmmaker and Lucas (William Magnuson), whose series of viral videos have previously stirred tremendous controversy. When shocking footage of local residents emerges, and no one can recall the events they depict, the siblings launch an investigation that will unravel their understanding of their personal histories -- and of reality itself. Man Finds Tape also threads a fascinating thematic needle by integrating a decisively religious element to the narrative in the form of Rev Endicott Carr (John Gholson) whose small local church and public access sermons might be the key to all of the mysterious occurrences in the town.Man Finds Tape is riddled with unexpected narrative surprises and remarkable thematic layers about trust, belief, perception, and control. Reed sat down with Peter and Paul to discuss their exciting debut feature. We hope you'll check it out and we hope you enjoy this conversation!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a special interview for you this week which arrives just in time for your holiday shopping considerations. The concept behind Restoration Games is that the team rescues fun, buzz-generating board games that have largely been lost to obscurity and brings them back in rejuvenated and modernized editions. Their bestselling UnMatched Series has generated tremendous excitement permitting characters like Daredevil or Sherlock Holmes to do battle against Dracula or King Arthur. Their upcoming release Battle Monsters already created huge excitement at Gen Con, especially for one Mr. Nathan Rouse.We got to sit down with two key staffers at Restoration Games, Lead Marketing Alchemist Beth Erikson and Meeple Mover Josh Willenbrink, to discuss the company's primary efforts in restoring once-popular games and what makes their bestselling titles so accessible and addicting. It's a fun and lively conversation that we think you're going to love.Check out all the fun at Restoration Games and we hope you enjoy this special interview!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have a unique and special interview for your feed this week. Much like our budding relationship with local Charlotte bookstore Troubadour Booksellers, our desire to highlight those doing good work in the spaces that overlap with ours continues with a special conversation with a representative from a wonderful establishment in Charlotte called the INDEPENDENT PICTURE HOUSE.The Independent Picture House, or IPH, is a movie theater in most ways that matter, but with some significant differences from the multiplexes you might be familiar with. Nathan sat down with their Director of Education and Community Engagement, de'Angelo Dia -- who describes himself as a theopoet and mystic whose work explores culture and moral imagination through poetry, performance art, and photography. The pair of them have an invigorating discussion about the IPH, its purpose and intention, as well as broader ways of engaging culture and art and film in more intentional, thoughtful, and spiritual ways.If you're in the Charlotte area, please check out Independent Picture House and meanwhile we hope you enjoy this special conversation!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have another special interview for you this week with another great book recommendation. This time, we hosted bestselling author Rachel Harrison to talk about her latest book, PLAY NICE. Rachel is a Bram Stoker nominated writer who has been remarkably prolific since her hit debut novel The Return landed on shelves in 2020.Her latest book, Play Nice, centers around Clio Barnes, a stylist and successful influencer with a complex past: the home she grew up in wasn't just haunted, it was possessed. When her mother passes away suddenly, she returns home to find herself navigating the tricky perspectives of her upbringing. As she confronts her own perceptions about her childhood and her family, she will be forced to come to terms with some metaphorical -- and possibly very literal -- demons.Rachel's conversation with us quickly reveals the thoughtful depth that she brings to this unconventional haunted house tale as well as her strong talents at characterization and human observation which have made her prose so captivating. Play Nice is on bookshelves now and we highly recommend you check it out. Meanwhile, enjoy our special interview!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spooky season never ends around here and we have a special Friday interview for you today where we host author Christina Henry to discuss her latest book, THE PLACE WHERE THEY BURIED YOUR HEART. Christina is a bestselling author of horror and dark fantasy novels, many of which include sequels or original reinventions of classic children's tales.The Place Where They Buried Your Heart tells the story of a "house that doesn't belong" on an otherwise ordinary street in Chicago. When Jessie Campanelli's brother went into the house and never came out, it tore Jessie's family apart in irreparable ways and forever changed the course of her life. Now, grown and with a child of her own, Jessie senses a growing darkness spreading from the house -- a darkness that seems alive... and hungry.We sat down with Christina to discuss her richly textured novel that examines the nature of communities, the haunting power of regret, and the ways that sometimes the smallest of choices may come to define our whole future. It's available wherever books are sold and we highly recommend it. We hope you enjoy this special conversation!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Another Spooky Season (ahhhhhh) has come and gone, friends and FoGgers. In the grand tradition we've developed these past few years, we offer you a coda on our Final Destination franchise run by looking back on some of our favorite thematic observations throughout the discussions, ranking each of the films in the franchise, selecting our most "Ain't Right" moments across all six films, and -- of course -- the moment you've all been waiting for: the official Mack Daddy Kills Hall of Fame for the FINAL DESTINATION franchise.The next couple of months will be rather unconventional programming as we wind down the year, including more interviews, some complete conversations, and a couple other surprises. But we will be back in January with a whole new slate of FoGgy episodes, because the Fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, but not the end of the conversation.In that spirit, we encourage you to fear nothing else and be on your way rejoicing.5:15 - Reflections on FoG 20259:57 - That Ain't Right for the Final Destination franchise24:52 - Ranking the Final Destination films47:35 - Themes and Observations Across the Conversations1:08:23 - The Mack Daddy Kills Hall of Fame1:33:04 - Closing Credits and Special Thank YousSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We hope you're having a safe and fun Halloween this year. As a special little Spooky Season bonus, we decided -- quite on a whim -- to drop in a little bonus chat for you wherein Nathan plays Reed's game known as TAKE FIVE.Take Five is meant to be a kind of primer for a specific category of films, identifying unique and important entries to flesh out your understanding. What film made the most money? What film is the most representative? What is underrated? What film changed everything? And what film stands out as a cult classic?As a special Halloween treat, we play the game of Take Five for the work of the one and only John Carpenter! Play along with us as we uncover his Blockbuster, Classic, Cult Hit, Hinge, and Gem. As we hope you have a wonderful and very Happy Halloween!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We've reached the penultimate episode of this year's spooky season franchise run. Earlier this year, the Final Destination franchise returned after a decade and a half hiatus with FINAL DESTINATION: BLOODLINES. The sixth installment expands upon the universe of the franchise in ways that add both thematic and narrative weight. It features strong characterizations, clever, inventive sequencing, and -- of course -- a lot of surprising and elaborate deaths. It also features the final on screen performance of the legendary horror icon Tony Todd, who passed away before the film was released and whose final lines in the film serve as a coda for both his career and the franchise as a whole.Unpacking all of that and more with us is a host of fun guests, including Vera Goudie, Matt Ruff, Penny Rouse, Matt Murray, Steve Beckley, and Jocee Worley. It's not only a thoughtful and occasionally heartfelt conversation about the preciousness of life, it's also a laughter-filled joy machine of a discussion party. We truly find the hope in the horrific this week and we hope you all enjoy it!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're kicking Halloween week off with a special interview we hosted with author Nick Medina about his latest book, THE WHISTLER. Nick writes horror, crime, and mystery fiction that sits at the intersection of social issues alongside Native American folklore.The Whistler, his third novel, centers around Henry, a man who suffers immense tragedy following his careless dismissal of an ancient traditional warning: never whistle at night. As Henry copes with the changes to his life and physical condition, he is haunted by a malevolent presence. As he is forced to wrestle with his past choices, he must come to terms with what has truly happened and what is truly haunting him.We sat down with Nick to discuss his very scary, very thoughtful, and disarmingly moving novel that tugs at the heart strings as often as it chills the spine. It's available wherever books are sold and is a perfect choice for spooky season. We hope you enjoy this special bonus interview!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're almost to the end of our Spooky Season series where we examine every entry in the Final Destination franchise. The fifth installment was in many ways a reset. It started with fresh characters, tested out some new kill techniques, and even expanded the mythology of the franchise in ways the previous films hadn't. It had other surprises in store by the time it was over, which made it a remarkably invigorating conclusion (temporarily) to the franchise. Prior to this year's release of Bloodlines, FINAL DESTINATION 5 was the franchise's coda, and a pretty solid one at that.We're joined this week by pastor and friend of the show Fr Josh Bowron to dive a bit deeper into the metaphysical and theological ramifications of these elaborately conceived deaths. The result is a discussion not only littered with our usual frivolity and fun but also surprisingly contemplative and as thoughtful as we always try to be.Also featuring a Patron-only segment discussing THE SIMPSONS Treehouse of Horror XX, this is a conversation we're very proud of and one we really hope you enjoy.Patron Only Segment: The Simpsons, Treehouse of Horror XX6:43 - FINAL DESTINATION 5See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The fourth installment in the Final Destination franchise slapped an article at the top of the title, threw some 3-D special effects at the wall, and largely dismissed virtually every sensible aspect of quality filmmaking. It's rescued (barely) by some genuinely memorable death sequences in an otherwise aggressively skippable installment. But we did not skip it! Instead, we gathered friend of the show Paula Deming and new friend of the show "Professor" Meg Oak to chat about it -- neither of whom had ever seen a Final Destination film before.It was an uproariously grand time filled with laughter, head-scratching film notes, and an absurd amount of references to THAT scene in the film. In the midst of all the rampant frivolity, there are even a few moments of earnest and thoughtful reflection about the nature of death when it comes to questions of consequence for abhorrent behavior.Also featuring a brief stint with The Simpsons, Treehouse of Horror XIX, this is a hearty and vibrant episode that we really hope you enjoy!7:58 - Debriefing Gen Con with Paula Deming and Meg Oak13:46 - Business Time -- FOGOWEEN!Patron Only Segment: The Simpsons, Treehouse of Horror XIX18:27 - Two Questions with Meg Oak28:40 - THE FINAL DESTINATIONSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We carry on this week with our march through the franchise of death's design by discussing FINAL DESTINATION 3, a real roller coaster for the franchise (literally). The writers who started it all are back and return the franchise to a bit more of its original ominous flavor rather than the silly absurdity of part 2. It's questionable if that was the right choice or not, but to help us find out, we're joined by Vera Goudie and official newcomer to the FoG, Penny Rouse.Also featuring a Patron-only segment on THE SIMPSONS TREEHOUSE OF HORROR XVIII, it's a breezy and thoughtful discussion that we hope you enjoy!Patron Only Segment: The Simpsons, Treehouse of Horror XVIII9:46 - Two Questions with Penny Rouse16:24 - FINAL DESTINATION 3See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As part of a collegiate course on public speaking, Nathan and Reed were interviewed by professor Noel Manning II about the origins of The Fear of God, its development and change over time, and some of the behind-the-scenes aspects of sustaining a weekly podcast over several years.It was a privilege and delight to speak with Noel, and we would like to share that interview here for you all as well. You can view the full video interview on YouTube here. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.