Ghouls Next Door
By Gabe & Kat
Ghouls Next DoorMay 16, 2024
Last of Us: The Resilience of Love at the End of the World
Last of Us is an emotionally charged drama, set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal outbreak, that masterfully intertwines elements of horror and heartfelt storytelling. Gabe explains the horrors of the cordyceps fungus that inspired the game and show's villain. They also talk about the brilliant storytelling that has us in our feels. Kat shares ways we can be better before an apocalypse forces our hand. Let's build Disaster Utopias now! Sources in this Episode can be found in our Blog
Fallout (2024): Societal Experiments & a Plan for the End of the World
Fallout is an ambitious, gore-filled, comedic adaptation of the popular post-apocalyptic video game franchise. What Fallout and our world have in common is endless human suffering, a hatred for communism, manipulative and controlling governments, and war, which never changes.
Gabe compares the two worlds and histories. And they dive into all the horrifying experiments of VaultTec. Kat tells us what to do in the event of a nuclear war, where is the safest place to be during a nuclear attack, and if the rich are already building VaultTec-like bunkers in anticipation of a coming war.
Fall of the House of Usher (2023): Imagined Retribution
The Fall of the House of Usher is a gory, vicious story that sees the end of a villainous family line, the Ushers. Gabe explains many of the Edgar Allan Poe references. They also unpack some of the lines in the show that criticizes the wealthy. Kat shares about the real Ushers, the Sackler family behind the Opioid Epidemic in America.
Midnight Mass (2021): A Spiritual Awakening
Midnight Mass is a slow-burn horror series exploring the impact of spirituality, our place in the universe, and the horrors that we face when religion is contorted and weaponized. Gabe talks about how this is a personal story for Flanagan and shares their own personal history with religion. Kat talks about the inevitability and inequity of death. Both Ghouls discuss the moments of the show that have forever changed them.
Haunting of Bly Manor: Faulty Memory and the Need to be Remembered
The Haunting of Bly Manor is a slow-burn, creeping horror show that critiques classism, softly embraces queer love, and haunts its audience with tragedy. Gabe discusses the overall theme memory plays in the show and how this is a love story more than a ghost story. Kat talks about why people want to be remembered when they die and how to assure you will be.
Haunting of Hill House: Grief and Hereditary Mental Illness
Haunting of Hill House is a supernatural horror series that explores the impact of grief and mental illness under the guise of a haunted house story. Gabe dives into the characters: how the Crain children represent a stage of grief, their experience with the magical realism of the haunted house, and events in their childhood shaped their lives. Kat discusses the impact of trauma and grief on young minds and how you can help a child dealing with such things.
Infinity Pool (2023): An Unhealthy Obsession with the Rich
Brandon Cronenberg's Infinity Pool is a compelling science fiction film that scrutinizes the opulent lifestyle of the 1%, delving into their sinister nature of overindulgence. Gabe discusses the lifestyles of the rich and the famous and more importantly, why this film leaves much to be desired. Kat shares tools so you can be a better human than James, the main character was.
Sources in this Episode:
James At The End Of Infinity Pool Wasn't The Real James | Screenrant
Morality and Personal Identity in Brandon Cronenberg’s Infinity Pool | Horror Obsessive
Possessor (2020): Labor Alienation & Data Mining Horrors
Possessor is a gripping sci-fi horror movie that intertwines an existential identity crisis with a chilling undertone of commentary on the issues of data mining, surveillance and labor alienation. gabe unpacks the film's themes by dabbling into a little Marxism and also highlights a very real issue within the first scene of the film. Kat explains data mining and other technological advances that raise alarms when it comes to ethical concerns.
Sources in this Episode:
Psychological Infections: Brandon Cronenberg on Possessor | Roger Ebert
On Possessor, Data Mining, and Labor Alienation | Medium
'Possessor' Review: Identity Theft as Nihilist Nightmare | Slant Magazine
White Audiences Are Obsessed With Black Martyrdom | Electric Literature
Neuralink brain chip's first human patient. How does it work? | About That
20th WCP: Ethical Assessment of Implantable Brain Chips
Researchers grapple with the ethics of testing brain implants | Science | AAAS
What Is Data Mining? A Beginner’s Guide (2022)
They Cloned Tyrone (2023): Subverting Stereotypes & Government Conspiracies
They Cloned Tyrone is a loud, absurd, and charming sci-fi film that's equal parts blaxploitation, social commentary, and confirmed conspiracy theories. Following three unlikely heroes as they uncover a government conspiracy that weaponizes cultural staples and stereotypes against them. Gabe unpacks the harmful stereotypes and the power of Blaxploitation films. Kat gives an in-depth history lesson about the government and CIA's role in the role of drug trafficking around the world and how they use their power to oppress.
Sources in this Episode:
What Is Blaxploitation: The Essential Guide To The Subgenre
The INFAMOUS “Black” McDonald’s commercials
Director Juel Taylor Uncovers the Easter Eggs in They Cloned Tyrone | Netflix
The Truths and Symbolisms in “They Cloned Tyrone” | by ASUS BUTTERFLY
They Cloned Tyrone' Director Juel Taylor on His Favorite Conspiracies and Winning Over Erykah Badu
How ‘They Cloned Tyrone’ Transforms Racial Archetypes into Unlikely Heroes
The Politics of Heroin in Southeast Asia
What We Really Know About the CIA and Crack
MANAGING A NIGHTMARE - How the CIA Watched Over the Destruction of Gary Webb | The Intercept | By Ryan Devereaux
Reaganomics and Its Implications for African-American Family Life
Reaganomics: The Impact On Black Economic Mobility
Get Out (2017): Black Horror and White Liberal Villains
Get Out is a film that effectively blends horror, comedy, and social commentary into a genuinely brilliant horror film. Gabe discusses the way Peele showcases Black history and trauma without being traumatic. Kat unpacks the harm of white liberals and performative activism.
Sources in this Episode:
Get Out Explained: Symbols, Satire & Social Horror | The Take
Jordan Peele’s Get Out Political Horror By Dawn Keetley
6 Ways I Have Faced Anti-Blackness By White Liberals in Organizing Spaces
The Scariest Part of ‘Get Out’ Was The Trueness To Life by Jordie Davies
When Feminism Is White Supremacy in Heels
Get Out: Structural Racism and Academic Terror by Renee Nicole Allen
Ways to Help:
A Black Feminist Resource List (Fall 2023)
The Movement for Black Lives (M4BL) Resources
Us (2019): America's Selective Memory
Jordan Peele's Us is a film intentionally titled, because it is a critique of us. It is gluttonous with its imagery and commentary, overflowing with context, history, and scoldings. The Ghouls do their best to unpack the many themes addressed in this fun horror film from classism, identity, Hands Across America, dance, and access to care.
Sources in this Episode:
Jordan Peele’s Us: the big plot twist, explained
Why Hands Across America Is So Vital to Jordan Peele's Us
‘Us’ Movie Explained: Is Jordan Peele Creating a ‘Get Out’ Trilogy? – The Hollywood Reporter
Jordan Peele’s Us: the ending, explained. Beware spoilers!
“It's Our Time Now”: The Aesthetics of Horror in Jordan Peele’s Us
‘Us’ Movie Explained: Is Jordan Peele Creating a ‘Get Out’ Trilogy?
Contextualizing Jordan Peele’s ‘Us’
Culture Shock (2019): Horrors of Immigration & the Veiled Threat of the American Dream
Stepford Wives, Matrix, Pleasantville, and Don’t Worry Darling (before it even existed), wrapped up in an impactful and dark bow. Culture Shock is a science fiction horror film that leans a bit more into non-fiction, addressing the many layers of horror surrounding Immigration. Ghouls unpack the horrors of immigration, ICE in America, and America's history of destabilizing countries.
Sources in this Episode:
'Into The Dark: Culture Shock' Director on 'Timeless' Qualities of Border Crossing Film
Death in the sands: the horror of the US-Mexico border
Under Joe Biden, Have 85,000 Undocumented Children Gone 'Missing'?
Government's own experts found 'barbaric' and 'negligent' conditions in ICE detention
shut down the Berks ICE Detention Center
fleeing a situation that the US helped create
Fleeing a hell the US helped create: why Central Americans journey north
Cultural Assimilation—How It Affects Mental Health
Into the Dark: Culture Shock Tears Down Lie of American Dream | Horror Obsessive
Other Reviews about Culture Shock:
Set Visit Recap: CULTURE SHOCK Aims to Wake You the F*** Up
Into the Dark: Culture Shock movie review (2019) | Roger Ebert
Culture Shock on Hulu: Gigi Saul Guerrero’s Best Into the Dark Episode – IndieWire
Don't Worry Darling (2022): Confused Feminism
Don't Worry Darling is a beautifully shot film with an ending that solidifies it as the Stepford Wives' negligible step child. Ghouls share what happens in the film, the big twist, and why we're left wanting more or even something else altogether. Can love and the Patriarchy coexist?
Sources in this Episode:
‘Don’t Worry Darling’ Review: A Drama That’s Accidentally a Comedy | Arts | The Harvard Crimson
Harry Styles and Florence Pugh’s Sex Scenes in ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ Make No Sense
Capitalism and the Oppression of Women: Marx Revisited
Psychological Patriarchy and Covert Submission in ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ (2022) – Flip Screen
Anaconda (1997): There's Snakes this Big?!
Anaconda (1997) is a fun creature feature with an interesting cast. A team of National Geographic documentarians find themselves in the clutches of an evil poacher, oh and also there are snakes here. Gabe gives us a glimpse into the making of these gigantic foes and other fun film things. Kat tells us how to survive a snake attack and shares some super fun facts about the big snakes too.
The Grey (2011): Fight to Live Another Day
The Grey is an emotional film that has men facing their mortality. Fighting against the elements and a natural enemy, these men stranded in the Alaskan wilderness learn what's important to them. How can you survive a wolf attack?
Crawl (2019): Gators & Florida Man
Crawl is a home invasion film with a twist, the intruders are gators and your house is being flooded by a Category 5 hurricane! Gabe is shares the true Floridian things about this film (as a Floridian themselves). Kat tells us the difference between gators and crocs; and what to do to survive an attack.
Meg 2: Prehistoric Beasts & Real Shark Dangers
Meg 2 is a wild ride where prehistoric aquatic beasts make people their tasty lunch. Ghouls discuss this fun film and what the real Megaladons were like. Kat gives us a rundown of the world's deadliest sharks and what to do if you're attacked by one.
The Birds (1963): Horrors Behind the Scenes and in the Skies
The Birds (1963) is a classic creature feature with an even more terrifying backstory and making-of. Ghouls discuss this sleepy film, the potential themes, and the interesting approach to storytelling. Gabe also explores the real horror of the film: Hitchcock's unhealthy obsession and torture of Tippi Hedren. Kat shares facts about the most dangerous birds and if we should be afraid of birds. Gabe even gives us a taste of a fun true-crime theory involving birds!
Beast (2022): Battle of the Dads
Beast starring Idris Elba is a suspenseful, family-driven story where one father fights to protect his family while another (furry and vicious) father fights to avenge the loss of his own. An expected film with heartfelt moments, Ghouls unpack this sleeper film. Kat shares what to do when you encounter a lion and also, maybe some things you shouldn't do. (Thanks WikiHow!)
Slotherhouse: the Slowest Slasher
Slotherhouse is an absurd new horror film that follows a killer sloth in a sorority. It is exactly as you imagine it is. Ghouls talk about where it hits and misses. Kat shares fun, unexpected facts about sloths. Do they have the capacity to kill? The answer might surprise you!
Cocaine Bear: Rules to Survive a Bear Encounter
Cocaine Bear is a quirky, dark comedy that charmed the Ghouls. Full of memorable characters, a villain you root for, and some helpful tips to survive a bear attack. Ghouls talk about the film and Kat shares some instructions on how to know when a bear means business and what to do in the event they do.
Malignant: Family Trauma & Flawed Memory
James Wan's Malignant is a truly unique film with creative imagery, a troublesome plot, and unforgettable stunts. This episode is ripe with spoilers because it's quite difficult to understand the story without knowing the truth. Ghouls discuss the "twist" ending, the hilarious stunts, and what they think would've made it even better.
Insidious Franchise: Astral Projections & Family Secrets
Insidious is a fun franchise of dreamwalkers, demons, and hereditary trauma. The Ghouls discuss all 5 films, the good, the bad, and the hideous (looking at you Insidious 3).
Conjuring Franchise: the Romanticization of the Warrens
Though the Ghouls have strong, negative feelings about the Warrens, the films have been a fun watch for them as horror lovers. Ghouls discuss the three Conjuring films, the real cases of the Warrens (both covered and not covered in the films), and why giving the Warrens a film make-over is a bad look.
Saw Franchise Pt. 2: Traumatizing Traps & Troubling Lessons
The Ghouls walk you through the first 9 Saw movies, the traps that haunt their nightmares, and who their least favorite proteges are. We sorted, or attempted to, the storyline of the franchise. Some of Jigsaw's victims make sense while others feel like a low blow.
Saw Franchise Pt. 1: The Will to Live
The Saw Franchise is an important thread in the fabric of horror history. Known for the elaborate, gory, and challenging traps, Saw will leave an ache in your bones. The Ghouls have never been so aware of their individual body parts before. In this first part of our Saw coverage, the Ghouls start to question the motives and the holier-than-thou message John Kramer has for his victims. And they begin to unpack the many layers of the dense story of the franchise, the numerous proteges and more.
Paranormal Activity Franchise: Haunted by Plot Holes
The Paranormal Activity franchise holds a special place in the Ghouls' hearts. The first film revived the Found Footage sub-genre (Gabe's favorite) and the films often promised creative jump scares and a slow burn. However, in trying to expand the universe the films began answering questions we never asked while never addressing plot holes or questions we did have.
Final Destination Franchise: Premonitions & Death's List
Final Destination is one of the Ghouls' favorite series! What happens when you beat Death only to have them return with vengeance? With some of the most memorable and creative deaths in the horror genre, the series is a fun slasher with a faceless villain.
Did these people really ruin Death's plan or was this all a part of Death's twisted game?
Alien Franchise: Mother & the Meaning of Human Existence
The Alien Franchise is what we like to refer to as Listen-to-Women the film because if only any of the other characters did just that, we'd avoid this sticky, acid, chest-bursting mess. Ghouls are talking about the entire Alien franchise (sans AVP, already covered in our Predator episode), yes even Alien^3. Why won't they let Ripley die?
Predator Franchise: Trophy Hunting & the Male Gaze
The Predator franchise is full of fun action-packed slashers. The first one stars one of the Ghouls' favorite final girls, Arnold Schwarzenegger. The films that follow are a mix of fun and why did this get made? We unpack each of the films (including Alien vs. Predator). We watched them so you don't have to!
Cyberpunk 2077 & Edgerunners: Evil Corporations & Technology
The Cyberpunk franchise is one that highlights countercultural antiheroes trapped in a dehumanizing high-tech future. Kat talks about the history of the Cyberpunk world and explains the bleak picture of the video game. Gabe discusses the sad and too-real characters of the mini-series, Edgerunners and their complicated relationship with tech, healthcare, and their identities in a world intent on erasing the impoverished.
Dune (2021) : What's the Deal with Spice?
Dune is an expansive science fiction world created by Frank Herbert with characters, societies, and tropes intended to reflect real-world issues. Ghouls are joined by Dune fan, Mike Levitt who tells them what the book is about, what happens in the film, what doesn't happen in the film, and why we should care about Dune at all.
Star Trek with Kennedy Allen
Star Trek is a story of perseverance, hope, and potential. This show has a robust history that has shaken the television landscape in a variety of ways. What does a future with free healthcare, different species, and the potential to have anything made in an instant do to humanity? Ghouls are joined by Trekspert, Kennedy Allen of Women at Warp, and Your Away Team to talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly of Trek.
The Expanse: Space Colonization with Li Sumpter
The Expanse is a phenomenal work of science fiction that highlights the resilience and power of people against all odds. This is a show that is as close to scientifically accurate as we can get and features some truly impressive science, language, and history. Ghouls invite mythologist and transmedia creator, Li Sumpter (@MythMediaStudios) to talk about Afrofuturism, our place amongst the stars, and preparing for the inevitable from a place of community care.
American Psycho: the Monster of Wealth and Consumerism
American Psycho is a brilliantly satirical and comical view of the toxicity of consumerism and masculinity. Bateman is an absurd villain that's remarkably not too far from the truth. Gabe discusses the outrageous villain and Kat explores the science of wealth's impact on our brains.
Sources in this Episode:
American Psycho: A Message on Consumerism
How Money Changes the Way You Think and Feel
How Money Affects the Psychology of the Extremely Rich
Other Reviews on American Psycho:
Materialism and Consumption Theme in American Psycho | LitCharts
American Psycho- Materialism over Morals and the loss of identity | by Ben Elliott | Medium
American Psycho: Materialism, Misogyny and Machismo | The Dissolve
Patrick Bateman's Psychology as a Result of Materialism and Consumer Culture
Materialism in Bret Easton Ellis American Psycho and F Scott Fitzgeralds The great Gatsby
Consumerism and Madness in Mary Harron's American Psycho
American Psycho: A Message on Consumerism
(PDF) Painful Lust: Status and Consumerism in American Psycho
How American Psycho Serves as The White Man's Code for Behavioral Dysfunction
How American Psycho Predicted the Capitalism Masculinity and Chaos of 2020
Severance: Horrors of Corporate Culture
Severance is a horrifying examination of America's corporate culture and the predatory power of those corporations. What does it mean to separate yourself from your "work" self, to remove yourself from any accountability for your actions at work, and to become a corporate slave? Through the pandemic, we've seen a rise in worker power that has afforded us many improvements from the physical office spaces, to better pay, and a stronger sense of importance for our lives outside of work.
Sources in this episode:
Apple TV+'s 'Severance' Nails How Absolutely Inhuman Our Work Culture Is | Huffpost
4 fascinating things we learned from the 'Severance' companion book | Mashable
It’s still possible to get what you want at work: The era of worker power isn’t over | Vox
Severance’s workplace brutality isn’t sci-fi. Neither is its worker power | Vox
“Slavery by Another Name” | PBS
Ways to Help - Unionize!
Building Worker Power | Economic Policy Institute
Get Support - Emergency Workplace Organizing Committee | Worker Organizing
The Platform (2019): A Hunger for Economic Reform
The Platform is an unsubtle and disgusting film that confronts our acceptance of our toxic and abusive systems of power. It addresses in a terribly unsubtle way the false promises of trickle-down economics. And more importantly, leaves us with a hope for the future, one in which the children of tomorrow can break the system.
Sources in this Episode:
The Platform Director’s Ending Explanation Is as Intriguing as the Movie | Collider
In The Platform Trailer, Trickle-Down Economics Turns Into a Literal Feeding Frenzy
Trickle-Down Economics: The Basics of Trickle-Down Theory
Other Reviews about The Platform:
The Twist Ending to Netflix's the Platform Explained | Forbes
Falling Into the Ethical Abyss of the Platform | Horror Homeroom
The Platform Director’s Ending Explanation Is as Intriguing as the Movie | Collider
The Platform Review: Netflix Horror Movie Sees the Hell of Capitalism | IndieWire
A Critical Analysis of “The Platform,” a Gut-Wrenching Allegory | The Treaty
The Platform (2019) – Difference, Power, and Discrimination in Film and Media: Student Essays
An Analysis of the Platform, Netflix's Sensation Movie | Latin American Post
‘The Platform’ Review: An Accidentally Timely Political Allegory | The New York Times
The Mist (2007): A Disaster Society to Fear
The Mist exposes the horrors of a society without control. It pitches the inevitable descent into madness and corruption. Author of the short story Stephen King and director Frank Darabont spin a tale that proves the real monsters are your neighbors, not the otherworld demons outside the windows. But what if this assumption about our society, one terrible event away from chaos, is not only wrong but harmful? Ghouls explore Rebecca Solnit's A Paradise Built in Hell and the ways society has instead given us Disaster Utopias.
Sources in this Episode:
A Paradise Built in Hell by Rebecca Solnit
Rebecca Solnit Considers Disaster Utopias | Alta Online
The Mist Is Still One of the Ballsiest Movies of the 21st Century | the Collider
Why The Mist's Ending Is So Dark Explained By Director Frank Darabont | Screenrant
Losing Faith: Reevaluating the Shocking Ending of the Mist 15 Years Later | Bloody Disgusting
Candyman (2021): Generational Trauma & the Power of Folklore
Nia DaCosta's Candyman is a sequel to the 90’s folklore villain. The film is creative with its storytelling, handling pain and grief with care. The tale transforms into a way for this community to put a word to their pain. It is no longer about a villain terrorizing an already vulnerable community but instead, something to point to, to separate themselves from and move forward. Gabe explores the evolution of the notorious folklore villain turned vengeful spirit. Kat shares the film's Impact Guide and how to continue the work.
Sources in this Episode:
Candyman - The Impact of Black Horror
Candyman: The Official Companion Guide
CANDYMAN - Social Impact Initiative
Other Reviews & Learning Opportunities for Candyman (2021):
Generational Trauma & History
Candyman Is a Manifestation of Generational Trauma | Podcast
The Cycles of Violence That Haunt Nia DaCosta's Candyman
CANDYMAN Crafts Its Own Lore and Dark Inheritance - Nerdist
All 6 Candymen Explained: Origins, Differences, Real Meanings
Nia DaCosta's 'Candyman' Explores Black History and Trauma Through Myth
Candyman is a tale of two different movies | Screen | Pittsburgh
Review: Candyman turns singular slasher into a timeless avatar for Black trauma | Ars Technica
The Movie Sleuth: Violence is a Ritual: Candyman (2021) - Reviewed
‘Candyman’: Explaining the Anthony McCoy Twist – The Hollywood Reporter
Candyman review: A 2021 reboot made for the wrong audience - Polygon
Gentrification
How Gentrification Expands CANDYMAN's Urban Legend - Nerdist
'Candyman' indicts gentrification as the real horror
'Candyman' Gets An Update, And The Horror Is Gentrification : Pop Culture Happy Hour : NPR
Candyman Wrings Terror Out of the Horror of Gentrification
Candyman and the gentrification of black culture
Is racist housing policy the real villain in "Candyman"? - Marketplace
Swarm (2023): Finding Connection through Fanaticism
Swarm is an exploration of the mentally damaging toll obsession and fandom can have on a person. More than that though, it is ultimately a story about the human need for connection and acceptance. Gabe discusses the series' creative approach to an unreliable narrator we're all rooting for. Kat explains the human brain's need for connection and community.
Sources in this Episode:
The Significance of 'Swarm' (or God) Giving Dre a Happy Ending
Other Reviews on Swarm:
Is 'Swarm' Based on a True Story? Explained | The Mary Sue
Donald Glover’s 'Swarm' Says Stanning Is a Sickness - The Atlantic
A pop star's killer fan runs amok in 'Swarm.' Why it's 'not a work of fiction'
Bad buzz: gory stan satire Swarm is a shallow look at extreme fandom | US television | The Guardian
'Swarm' Review: Surreal, Darkly Comedic, and a Hell of a Ride | SXSW 2023
Review: ‘Swarm’ takes pop star obsession to surreal, bloody and hilarious lengths | Datebook
'Swarm' Is a Sly Horror-Satire About Much More than Beyoncé Stans
'Swarm' is about how we're doing fandom wrong
'Swarm' Review: Dominique Fishback Shines in Beyoncé-Inspired Thriller - Variety
'Swarm' explores toxic fandom through the eyes of a serial killer : NPR
What 'Swarm' Has to Say About Toxic Fandom | News | BET
Skinamarink: Experimental Horror Gets Real on Fear
Skinamarink is a bizarre and disquieting film about interpreting the darkness with a young mind. The experimental film has many interpretations and in that, unifies its viewers to feel that special brand of fear from our youths. Gabe explains some of those theories and how the film successfully scares the pants off of you. Kat discusses childhood fears, how they're incredibly valid, and how to best help a child cope.
Sources in this Episode:
Skinamarink Explained- Child Abuse, Death, And The Monsters Of Our Youth | Signal Horizon
Skinamarink’s Mysterious Voice Could Be Darker Than You Realize | Screenrant
Skinamarink: A Forgotten Nightmare | Wendigoon
Anxiety and fear in children | Better Health Channel
Other Reviews on Skinamarink:
What the heck is a 'Skinamarink'? Explaining the abstract horror gem | Mashable
Skinamarink Ending Explained: The Darkness Will Swallow You Whole | Collider
Skinamarink Ending Explained - who is the strange voice? | Ready, Ready, Cut
These Scenes Reveal What's Really Going On in Skinamarink | CBR
Skinamarink ending explained – Reddit and fan theories, plus what the director thinks | Dexerto
Skinamarink and the Many Reddit Theories About Kevin, the Monster, and the Ending | Den of Geek
Skinamarink Ending Explained: You're Just My Archetype | SlashFilm
What is Skinamarink About? The Skinamarink Ending Explained | We Got This Covered
"Skinamarink" feels different for anyone who grew up in an abusive household | Salon.com
Skinamarink’s Mysterious Voice Could Be Darker Than You Realize | Screenrant
Skinamarink Explained- Child Abuse, Death, And The Monsters Of Our Youth | Signal Horizon
Steven Universe: Generational Trauma & the Rebellion of Existence
Steven Universe is a phenomenal show covering many issues and experiences while promoting compassion, growth, and freedom of expression. Though it is still very much a children's show, it is one of the few programs out there that covers trauma, identity, and other challenges in a healthy and empathetic way. Gabe reviews each Crystal Gem's unique journey to self-acceptance and also why they wish there was more justice regarding the Diamonds. Kat dives into Steven's growth and how a childhood of fighting oppressive forces can do a number on one's mental health.
Reviews on Steven Universe:
It's time to face Steven's trauma on this week's Steven Universe Future
How Steven Universe Subverts Toxic Masculinity and Normalizes Trauma
Rebecca Sugar Opens Up About How Healing from Trauma Shaped Steven Universe Future
“Steven Universe Future” Hasn't Backed down from Mental Health
In Steven Universe Future, Healing From Abuse Is an Ongoing Process | Tor.com
“Steven Universe” Offers a Familiar Critique of Colonialism | Bitch Media
M3GAN (2022): An AI Companion for Grief & Parenting
M3GAN is a surprisingly heartfelt film about grief, loss, and AI. When Gemma leaves a grieving Cady in the hands of her robot companion, M3GAN, she may be doing more harm than she ever intended. The Ghouls explore how the film surprised them and became something much more than they were expecting. Gabe examines the film's critical eye toward parenting, technology, and grief. Kat finds that the film did it's research regarding grief in children but finds that Gemma did none at all. What can you do to help a child grieving? And why is the answer 100% not leaving them alone with an unfeeling, untested, robotic guardian?
Sources in this Episode:
Bereavement Reactions Of Children & Young People By Age Group - Kids Health
Reviews about M3GAN:
What M3GAN Teaches About Grief
M3GAN (2023)—Grief, Emotional Attachment and Moving On
'M3GAN' Review: 'Grief, Camp, and A.I.' - Full Circle Cinema
More than Expected - How M3GAN Explores Grief and Relationships | Discussion and Review
Wednesday (2022): A Conversation on Latine and Neurodivergent Representation
Wednesday follows the moody character, Wednesday Addams during her formative years as a teen sleuth. Jenna Ortega plays the angsty Addams and expands the character we’ve seen many times before. Finally able to embrace their mixed-Latiné heritage, the show lightly touches on the potential. At times, viewers can feel seen in the show in a variety of ways but ultimately by not leaning into or confidently establishing certain characteristics, the show falls short of good representation.
Sources in this Episode:
There's a Major Issue With Latina Representation In Wednesday
HERE WE WOE I’m neurodivergent and here’s my issue with Netflix’s Wednesday
Pearl (2022): Love in the Time of the 1918 Flu
Ti West’s Pearl serves as a prequel to his X film’s memorable villain, the older, sexually-starved Pearl who wreaks havoc on the young bodies that had the audacity to engage in sexual relations on her property. Gabe appreciates the aesthetics of the film and Ti West's dedication to the theme. Kat dives into the troubled mind of young Pearl and how the complicated stew of terrible situations could influence her decisions. Having a husband away at war, taking care of family, isolating due to a pandemic, and living in the early 1900s?! No wonder Pearl is taut with tension and troublesome thoughts.
Sources in this Episode:
COVID has officially won as the most deadly disease in American History
The effects of social deprivation on adolescent development and mental health
Reviews:
‘Pearl’ Review: A Farmer’s Daughter Moves Up the Food Chain - The New York Times
Pearl review: a slasher prequel that makes the original even better - The Verge
Pearl review: a star is born (and is very, very bloody) | Digital Trends
Pearl review: Mia Goth melts down as a serial killer in the making | EW.com
‘Pearl’ Film Review: Stunning Prequel Makes ‘X’ Even Better Than It Already Was
Pearl Review: Wild A24 Horror Improves on Ti West's X | Den of Geek
‘Pearl’ Review: Grainy, Gory, and Goth | Arts | The Harvard Crimson
Pearl review: Mia Goth is breathtaking in a flawed horror prequel - Polygon
I'm Totally Fine (2022): Friendship is Love
I’m Totally Fine is a charming, simple film that explores grief, anxiety, and the weight of unresolved loss. The film is funny and heartbreaking all at once. Successfully tugging at the heartstrings of the Ghouls. Gabe discusses the film's fun concept that can get too real sometimes. Kat researches how animals grieve, revealing humans to not be that special.
Sources in this Episode:
‘I’m Totally Fine’ puts a comedic spin on grief
Do Animals Experience Grief?
The Truth about Animal Grief
Reviews:
I'm Totally Fine Is a Weird, Sweet Sci-Fi Tale About Letting Go
I'm Totally Fine Review: A Dramedy That Has The Right Idea But Wrong Tone
Grief, Friendship, And Aliens: An Interview With ‘I’m Totally Fine’ Writer, Alisha Ketry – COMICON
I'm Totally Fine (2022) Ending, Explained – How does one loss help Vanessa cope with another?
You (season 3): Toxic Relationships
In season 3 of Netflix's You, everyone's favorite problematic lover boy, Joe, has finally settled down into marital bliss with Love. Not all is perfect in this cookie-cutter, little boxes town as Joe and Love’s relationship begins a sharp decline. Turns out that staying together for a baby and because you know each other’s murderous secrets isn’t enough to keep a relationship afloat. Gabe delights at the hilarious season that pokes fun at the characters and fans of the series. Kat explains how Joe and Love embody the phrase “our trauma is not our fault, but it is our personal responsibility to heal from it when we become adults”.
Sources in this Episode:
‘You’ Season 3 is its best yet, thanks to its true horrors: Marriage and suburbia
Other Reviews on You, season 3:
About Love and Joe’s psyche:
We Had A Psychologist "Diagnose" Joe From "You" And It Seems Pretty Accurate
A therapist explains how 'You' gets its characters' twisted psychology right
Sherry & Cary’s relationship:
Three Cheers for You Season 3's MVP Couple: Sherry and Cary - TV Guide
Joe’s backstory: Who Is Nurse Fiona In 'You'? Joe's Memories Are Tragic
You - Joe Childhood Flashback Scenes Also covered in episode 6, and 9
More General:
You Season 3 Twist Ending Explained: Every Question Answered
You Season 3 Is the Best The Series Has Ever Been
‘You’ Season 3 is its best yet, thanks to its true horrors: Marriage and suburbia - The Washington Post
'You' Season Three Review: an uneven but entertaining turn toward suburban domesticity - The Brown Daily Herald
‘You’ Season Three Review: A Refreshing Look at Murder in the Suburbs | Arts | The Harvard Crimson
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: Break-Ups and the Pain in Your Brain
Michel Gondry's Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is an interesting exploration of memory and the impact of a breakup. Can we grow without the memories of our failures? Gabe discusses the toxic couple and the ways our relationships can define us, shaping us into the people we're to become. Kat researches the effects of break-ups on our brains, and the physical and mental pains that come from a split. As well as covers how our brain retains or erases memories for our benefit and health.
Sources in this Episode:
‘Eternal Sunshine’ Destroyed the Manic Pixie Dream Girl Stereotype Before It Even Existed
Film Analysis: “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”
Breakups can impact you in more ways than you think. Here's the science behind why they hurt so much
Using the logic of neuroscience to heal from a breakup
New Technique Can Help People Forget Certain Memories
Neural Correlates of Direct and Indirect Suppression of Autobiographical Memories
More Study Materials for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind:
Resources | Film Library | Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Analysis | Shmoop
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Study Guide | GradeSaver
Film Analysis: “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” – The Cinephile Fix
A Film to Transform You: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind | The Prolongation of Work • F17.1
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind | SBIFF
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind | How Editing Shapes a Story
How Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Subverts Expectations
Crimes of the Future (2022): Human Evolution
David Cronenberg's future in Crimes of the Future is one without physical pain but with much distress. What is the next step in human evolution and will the powers-that-be allow for a new future? Gabe works to unpack the messages in the film and discusses a world in which surgery is the new sex. Kat explains how recycling is a scam and how insidious microplastics are.
Sources in this Episode:
Crimes of the Future, Explained: Dissecting David Cronenberg's New Movie
Plastic Recycling is an Actual Scam | Climate Town
Microplastics are in our bodies. How much do they harm us?
Microplastics cause damage to human cells, study show
Plastic-Eating Microbes — “Rapid Evolution” May Not Be Darwinian at All
Bugs across globe are evolving to eat plastic, study finds
Other Crimes of the Future Reviews:
Crimes of the Future, Explained: Dissecting David Cronenberg's New Movie
CRIMES OF THE FUTURE | The Essential Explanation
David Cronenberg Explains What 'Crimes of the Future' Is Really About
'Crimes Of The Future' Ending, Explained: What Happens At The Live Autopsy Performance? Is Saul Dead Or Alive? | DMT
David Cronenberg on the evolution to 'Crimes of the Future' - Los Angeles Times
Transhumanism, Surgery as Sex, and Humanity's Frightening Evolution - Signal Horizon
Crimes of the Future: Why Scott Speedman's Character Is So Important
“A Great Future in Plastics”: Crimes of the Future and Cronenberg’s Story of Evolution - Bright Lights Film Journal
A Meditation on Human Evolution - Crimes of the Future
Crimes of the Future is Cronenberg Evolved
Crimes of the Future: Evolution of the New Flesh – The Twin Geeks
Slash/Back (2022): Alien Imposters & Embracing Your Culture
Slash/Back is part coming-of-age, part John Carpenter’s The Thing, with a sprinkling of Attack the Block and all heart. While fighting alien invaders, these girls learn to love and fight for their culture, their home, and their identity. Gabe shares thoughts from the creator and cherishes new stories like these. A playful homage to horror while educating, love it! Kat shares information on the uncanny valley of the monsters and describes some of the Inuit folkloric monsters designed to keep kids safe in the Arctic.
Sources in this Episode:
Nyla Innuksuk on her New Film “Slash/Back” - Inuit Art Foundation
Your Guide to the Monsters in Inuit Art - Inuit Art Foundation