In time for the holidays, Derek and Aaron tackle 1984's Christmas slasher "Silent Night, Deadly Night" directed by Charles E. Sellier, Jr. They talk about the film's mean spirited nature toward the holidays, the failure to address or treat childhood trauma, perversion of religion with violence and sex, and many other aspects and themes. They also discuss the insane sequels and how some of them tie into the franchise canon. Derek thinks punishment is absolute. Aaron has deemed you NAUGHTY. We are...
Dec 24, 2021•1 hr 45 min•Ep. 79
To start December off, Kelly returns as a guest to discuss 1988's comedy horror movie "Waxwork" written and directed by Anthony Hickox with Aaron and Derek. They talk about the effective homages to various horror sub-genres, the quirky and nonsensical nature of the story, and range of absurd to dark and serious tones. They also get into the production, cinematic shifts, cast variety, among many other things about the film. Aaron and Derek just want some coffee. Kelly invites you to his waxwork e...
Dec 09, 2021•1 hr 39 min•Ep. 78
For Thanksgiving, the Spoop Bois are joined by returning guest Lauren to tackle the 1980s cult holiday slasher film "Slasher" directed by John Grissmer. They discuss why they chose this film and what makes it perfect horror viewing for Thanksgiving. They also dig into what Lauren thought about the movie and her opinions on character motivations. Derek is not Aaron. Lauren is eating leftovers on the floor. Surprise, that's not cranberry sauce, it's a podcast (again again)! If you've read this far...
Nov 25, 2021•1 hr 55 min•Ep. 77
Halloween might be over for now, but the Spoop Bois keep it creepy all year long. This week, they tackle 2013's supernatural horror film "Oculus" co-written, edited, and directed by Mike Flanagan. They talk about Flanagan's career and horror output around and after "Oculus." They also discuss his preference for mixing family and horror, the impact of leaving the mirror's origins a mystery, what makes this film particularly evil, among many other topics. Spoiler alert, Derek was freaked out. Aaro...
Nov 11, 2021•1 hr 47 min•Ep. 76
First, they experienced the origins of the werewolf. Then, they dealt with a teenage werewolf. Now, the Spoop Bois with reoccurring guest James wrap up their werewolf themed Season of Spoop with some action horror wolves vs. soldiers. In time for 2021's Halloween, they tackle 2002's "Dog Soldiers" written, directed and edited by Neil Marshall. They talk about the idea of military in horror, what makes this version of werewolf dangerous, and the practicality used in this film. They also dig into ...
Oct 29, 2021•1 hr 42 min•Ep. 75
It wouldn't be The Season of Spoop without Heather guesting! To continue our werewolf-themed October, she joins Aaron and Derek to cover 2000's Canadian horror film "Ginger Snaps" directed by John Fawcett and co-written with Karen Walton. They discuss the overt subtext of womanhood juxtaposed to literal transformation against some of the deeper feminist themes. They also talk about the macabre and conflicting sibling relationship, Ginger's desire or "hunger," the actual creature effects, and man...
Oct 15, 2021•1 hr 42 min•Ep. 74
The 3rd annual The Season of Spoop™ (TM TM TM!) begins! This October, Derek and Aaron cover "werewolves" for their horror cinematic theme. To start things off, they tackle 1941's classic horror film "The Wolf Man" directed by George Waggner and written by Curt Siodmak. They briefly describe some history behind the folklore of the werewolf, and they talk about the creature's early appearances in cinema. They also get into how this film fits in with the Universal Monsters, the theme of a doomed pr...
Oct 01, 2021•1 hr 50 min•Ep. 73
On this episode, Aaron and Derek tackle 1981's horror flick "Dead & Buried" directed by Gary Sherman. They discuss Jack Albertson's (Grandpa Joe!) bombastic performance and how it was his final live-action film role before his death. They also talk about Dan O'Bannon's screenplay credit and involvement in horror, the town being part of the horror mystery, the film's initial "video nasty" label, and several other topics related to the movie. Derek calls it black magic. Aaron calls it a medica...
Sep 16, 2021•1 hr 45 min•Ep. 72
For the 69th (nice!) episode, the Spoop Bois welcome back author V.P. Morris ("ShadowCast," "The Dead Letters Podcast") to discuss 2009's sex-related comedy horror film "Jennifer's Body" written by Diablo Cody and directed by Karyn Kusama. They talk about how misleading the initial marketing was, Megan Fox's career and her wonderful performance, and how Kusama and Cody's original intentions have been reevaluated. They also get into how well the comedy lands, the bonkers soundtrack, the portrayal...
Sep 02, 2021•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 71
Aaron and Derek are once again joined by their old college buddy and Director Zach Lamplugh ("15 Things You Didn't Know About Bigfoot (#1 Will Blow Your Mind)") to discuss 2012's horror film "Excision" written and directed by Richard Bates, Jr. They talk about the balance of dark comedy, coming-of-age, gore, and tragic dread. They also get into the fascinating performances, specifically from AnnaLynne McCord and Traci Lords, the character actors used in minor appearances, and the shocking nature...
Aug 12, 2021•1 hr 37 min•Ep. 70
Evan is back for another round! This week he joins Aaron and Derek to discuss 1983's science fiction horror thriller "The Dead Zone" directed by David Cronenberg and based off of Stephen King's novel. They get into the differences between the movie adaptation and the source material. They also talk about what Cronenberg brings to the movie, the cult of personality politics and how it remains relevant today, Christopher Walken's performance, among many other things. Evan is trying to tell Aaron a...
Jul 29, 2021•1 hr 43 min•Ep. 69
Evan returns to Watch If You Dare to join Derek and Aaron in discussing 1993's biopic science fiction abduction horror flick "Fire in the Sky" directed by Robert Lieberman based on Travis Walton's book "The Walton Experience." They talk about how the movie differs from Travis' actual account and the casting choices specifically for Travis and Mike. They also get into the abduction scene and what makes it so memorable, how it came together, and the horror explored during and after the event. Dere...
Jul 15, 2021•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 68
In time for the 4th of July, the Spoop Bois cover 2012's found footage eco-horror film "The Bay" directed by Barry Levinson. They discuss how the production shifted from a documentary to a horror movie, what makes this an effective found footage film, how the crazy premise works in a serious and dark tone, among many other aspects of the film. They also briefly talk about 2008's "Pontypool" directed by Bruce McDonald. Aaron's tongue is starting to hurt. Derek thinks something is in the water. We...
Jul 01, 2021•1 hr 40 min•Ep. 67
After a brief hiatus, the Spoop Bois are back bigger and better than ever! They are joined by "dream-come-true" mega guest comic author Cullen Bunn ( Harrow County , The Empty Man , The Sixth Gun , Venom , Magneto , and countless other titles with Marvel, DC, Image, etc.) to discuss 1987's supernatural horror film "Prince of Darkness" written and scored by John Carpenter. They spend time talking with Cullen about his horror influences and tastes, and his work in horror across comics and screen a...
Jun 15, 2021•1 hr 49 min•Ep. 66
This week, James returns as a guest to help the Spoop Bois tackle their first Argento! They discuss 1985's Italian horror film "Phenomena" directed by Dario Argento. They talk about the differing multiple horror elements making up this film, and they analyze the aspects that define Argento's style. They also get into Jennifer Connelly's performance and how it shaped her career, how the insects are used, this film's influence on survival horror video games, among other things. He won't hurt James...
May 18, 2021•2 hr•Ep. 65
In his first solo guest appearance, film newbie Jonathan returns to Watch If You Dare to join Aaron and Derek in tackling 2008's psychological horror film "The Strangers" written and directed by Bryan Bertino. They discuss what works and what doesn't with both horror and plot specifically from the viewpoint of someone who doesn't normally watch horror. They also talk about the pacing, the small cast performances, the frustrating character choices, how the movie has aged, among other things. Why ...
May 04, 2021•1 hr 39 min•Ep. 64
Aaron and Derek decide to hit up a Wes Craven flick back to back! This time they tackle 1991's horror comedy "The People Under the Stairs" written and directed by Craven. They discuss the social commentary under the lens of the early 90s, Wes Craven's thought process, and how much remains relevant in the modern era. They also talk about the juxtaposition of cartoon antics with crazy horror, the solid child performances throughout, Everett McGill and Wendy Robie reuniting post-Twin Peaks as the f...
Apr 22, 2021•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 63
The Spoop Bois are joined by first time guest Damian to discuss 1984's supernatural slasher masterpiece "A Nightmare on Elm Street" written and directed by Wes Craven. They get into how much of an impact movies like this had now and at time of release. They also talk about Wes Craven as a filmmaker, what makes Freddy Krueger so terrifying as a concept and iconic character, the direction of this film and the franchise, among many other topics. Derek is draining coffee, Aaron is getting sucked int...
Apr 06, 2021•1 hr 57 min•Ep. 62
Once again, Lauren joins the Spoop Bois Derek and Aaron to discuss 2005's supernatural horror legal drama film "The Exorcism of Emily Rose" directed by Scott Derrickson. They discuss the juxtaposition of demonic horror with intense court room drama scenes, the open interpretation to what happened to Emily, and the excellent character work, especially Jennifer Carpenter's haunting performance. They also get into Scott Derrickson's faith and impact on the direction among many other aspects of the ...
Mar 23, 2021•1 hr 47 min•Ep. 61
This week, Aaron and Derek tackle 1979's psychological body horror film "The Brood" written and directed by David Cronenberg. They discuss Cronenberg's life leading up to the making of this film, how he shows all his emotions and reactions in the movie, and what it means for elements that are considered problematic. They also talk family trauma and the horrors of it literally and metaphorically manifesting. Derek isn't a weak boy. Aaron is...daddy. We are on PodBean, Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, A...
Mar 09, 2021•1 hr 46 min•Ep. 60
This week, Aaron and Derek cover 2016's Persian-language psychological horror film "Under the Shadow" written and directed by Babak Anvari. They spend time discussing the historical background of the Iran–Iraq War and War of the Cities that sets the backdrop of this movie. They also talk about the universal feelings of horror shown throughout the plot, how the elements of war are incorporated, and the meaning behind living "under the shadow." Derek and Aaron may disagree on how scary it is, but ...
Feb 23, 2021•1 hr 51 min•Ep. 59
Derek and Aaron are joined by V.P. Morris (host of "The Dead Letters Podcast" and author of the upcoming thriller novel "ShadowCast") to discuss 1991's psychological horror masterpiece "The Silence of the Lambs" directed by Jonathan Demme. They discuss the impact of Clarice as a protagonist, how effective Hannibal Lecter is in a modern lens, relatability to real life horrors, and so much more about the film. We also dig into how this movie inspired her novel and interest in horror in general. Pl...
Feb 09, 2021•1 hr 54 min•Ep. 58
Derek and Aaron take on their second commentary track with 1989's supernatural fitness movie "Death Spa" (known in Europe as "Witch Bitch") directed by Michael Fischa. Match up your movie watch with their commentary and enjoy their takes on plot holes, various levels of effort by cast and crew, the insane set design, the surreal energy, and much more while you watch along! Exercise can kill, listen to find out how! We are on PodBean, Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify, an...
Jan 26, 2021•1 hr 34 min•Ep. 57
Welcome to 2021. In the long overdue second minisode, the Spoop Bois dig into 2019's horror film "1BR" written and directed by David Marmor by interviewing producer Alok Mishra and actress Naomi Grossman (Janice in "1BR," Pepper in "American Horror Story," Lorna in "ctrl alt delete"). They discuss how it came to be, talk about wild production stories, analyze the horrors portrayed throughout the movie, and get into a variety of topics about the film and genre in general. Go watch and support "1B...
Jan 14, 2021•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 56
It's the Watch If You Dare 2020 Holiday Special! To wrap up the year, the Spoop Bois tackle 1984's Christmas comedy horror film "Gremlins" directed by Joe Dante. They discuss the juxtaposition of chaotic humor and legitimate darkness during the holidays, Spielberg's influence in the production and movie rating system, and the general lore behind the Gremlins folklore. They also touch on the film's merchandising, the franchise's history, and how "Gremlins" remains a holiday classic. Aaron makes t...
Dec 24, 2020•1 hr 58 min•Ep. 55
This week, the Spoop Bois are joined by guest Kelly to discuss 1985's horror film "Fright Night" directed by Tom Holland. They tackle how "Fright Night" plays on the childhood fascination with neighborhood mystery and effective use of the "boy who cries wolf" horror trope. They also dig into excellent character work including the endearing relatability of Charley Brewster and the hypnotic menace of Jerry Dandrige. They analyze the flick and franchise as a whole. Aaron saw a vampire. Derek doesn'...
Dec 11, 2020•1 hr 53 min•Ep. 54
That's not cranberry sauce, it's a podcast (again)! For Thanksgiving, the Spoop Bois are joined by returning guest Jeff to revisit 1987's holiday relevant slasher film "Blood Rage" directed by John Grissmer. They discuss why they chose this film as their first one to revisit and what makes it perfect horror viewing for Thanksgiving. They also dig into what Jeff thought about the movie and how rewatches affect opinions on character motivations and other aspects of the movie. Jeff might be Todd. D...
Nov 24, 2020•1 hr 45 min•Ep. 53
This week, Aaron and Derek start preparing for Thanksgiving by tackling 1999's Western horror cannibal tale "Ravenous" directed by Antonia Bird. They discuss the problematic production life, the balance of satire and horror, and the large amount of character actors in the cast, specifically Neal McDonough and David Arquette. They also dig into the dynamic between Guy Pearce and Robert Carlyle's characters and what makes Colqhoun specifically such a fantastic horror character. Aaron likes his ste...
Nov 10, 2020•1 hr 50 min•Ep. 52
Just in time for Halloween, Watch If You Dare wrap up this year's witch themed Season of Spoop with a nostalgic trip in revisiting 1993's dark fantasy comedy horror Disney feature "Hocus Pocus" directed by Kenny Ortega. Joining Aaron and Derek are Heather, Lauren, and Chrystle. They dig into their personal histories with the movie, the new appreciation for the adult themes, and why this is a great Halloween classic, especially for their age range. They also explore the kindertrauma horror elemen...
Oct 29, 2020•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 51
As the witch themed Season of Spoop rolls on, Aaron and Derek are joined by returning guest Lauren to tackle 1922's (yes 1922) Swedish-Danish silent film documentary "Häxan" (also known as "Heksen," "The Witches," and "Witchcraft Through the Ages") directed by Benjamin Christensen. They discuss how it's aging through the decades, subject matter, and creepy dramatizations inadvertently make this a solid proto-horror watch. They also go into how witchcraft is presented, the director's analysis in ...
Oct 13, 2020•1 hr 46 min•Ep. 50
