Film reviewer and horror enthusiast Chris Ryan joins Sean to review 'The Exorcist: Believer' and discuss horror franchise filmmaking. They award 'horror Oscars' to one film per year for the last five years. The hosts also explore other horror movies, upcoming releases, the use of found footage in 'VHS,' and the trend of high-end filmmakers competing for best short film Oscars.
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Quick takeaways
The film 'The Exorcist: Believer' explores themes of faith and possession, but falls short in delivering a clear message or purpose.
Horror franchise filmmaking has become a significant part of David Gordon Green's career.
The hosts review the last five years in horror and award 'horror Oscars' to one film per year.
The podcast discusses the authentic and chilling experience provided by the new VHS movie, featuring themed short films set in 1985.
Deep dives
VHS 1985: A fresh take on the found footage horror anthology
The new VHS movie, set in 1985, captures the essence of the era with its themed short films. Filmmakers like Scott Derrickson, Mike P. Nelson, and David Bruckner deliver compelling segments that range from creepy to terrifying. The use of analog technology and the limitations of the time add to the authenticity of the stories. While some segments may be hit or miss, the overall anthology provides a nostalgic and chilling experience.
Saw X: Exploring empathy for the iconic Jigsaw
In the latest installment of the Saw franchise, Saw X, the audience is invited to empathize with Jigsaw as he seeks revenge against scammers who exploit his desire to cure his cancer. The traps are as gruesome and creative as ever, including a nail-gun contraption and an eye-sucking apparatus. While the film is not without flaws, it offers a new take on the iconic Jigsaw character and provides plenty of thrills for horror fans.
Dissecting the Exorcist Believer
Exorcist Believer, a direct sequel to the original Exorcist film, explores themes of faith and possession. The movie introduces new characters and incorporates a multi-faith approach to exorcism. However, it falls short in delivering a clear message or purpose. The film suffers from pacing issues and a lack of focus, resulting in a disappointing experience for fans of the Exorcist franchise.
When Evil Lurks: A thrilling Argentine horror film
When Evil Lurks, an Argentinian horror film set in a small town, delivers a chilling story about demonic possession and survival. The movie effectively builds tension and creates a sense of unease through its unique premise. Notable segments include a pregnant man who becomes host to a demon and a vengeful beekeeper seeking justice. While not a perfect film, When Evil Lurks offers innovative and terrifying moments that make it worth watching.
Summary of 2021: Black Phone Emerges as the Horror Hit of the Year
Black Phone, the A24 movie, has gained widespread acclaim as the horror hit of the year, with its unique blend of horror and sci-fi elements. Other notable films in 2021 include Sick, Evil Dead Rise, When Evil Lurks, Megan, and Skin and Marink. While each film has its own strengths, the consensus leans towards Black Phone as the standout horror film of 2021.
2022: Barbarian and Ex Animals Compete for the Top Spot
2022 has seen a strong lineup of horror films, including Barbarian and Ex Animals, which have garnered praise from audiences and critics alike. Other contenders include Barbarian, Ex Animals, Talk to Me, and Megan. While each film brings something unique to the table, Barbarian has emerged as a major force with its fresh blend of horror and humor.
2023: A Wide Range of Horrors to Choose From
2023 has offered viewers a diverse range of horror films to choose from, including Sick, Evil Dead Rise, We Need to Talk About Megan, When Evil Lurks, and Skin and Marink. Each film brings its own unique style and narrative, making it a challenging decision to determine the top horror film of the year.
Conclusion
The horror genre continues to thrive with a steady stream of compelling and innovative films. Each year brings a mix of standout movies that captivate audiences and explore new frontiers within the genre. Whether it's the psychological terror of Black Phone, the dark humor of Barbarian, or the experimental storytelling of Skin and Marink, horror film enthusiasts have plenty of thrilling experiences to look forward to.
Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to review the latest film in the ‘Exorcist’ universe, ‘The Exorcist: Believer’ (1:00). Then, they discuss the ways that horror franchise filmmaking has enveloped David Gordon Green’s career (23:00), before zooming out to take stock of the last five years in horror by awarding "horror Oscars" to one film per year (40:00).
