September 2018
Clothes Makes the Killer
Psycho (1960)
The granddaddy of all slasher film, Alfred Hitchcock’s low budget shocker was a milestone as he shot this in black and white with his television crew which is a huge step considering that his previous film was the technicolour masterful North by Northwest.
Adapted from the book by Robert Bloch with screenwriting duties by Joseph Stefano, the film would go on to be a true film classic. The film is also the first horror film to receive four Academy Award nominations. Often ranked as one of the greatest films of all time and setting a new level for sex, violence and deviant behaviour in film.
The film stars Anthony Perkins, Janet Lee, Martin Balsam, Vera Miles, John Gavin and Pat Hitchcock. It also has the classic Alfred Hitchcock brief walk on. See if you can spot it.
We welcome back Vincent di Sante (Never Hike Alone) who joins us on our Season 2 opener. You can find more information about Vincent di Sante on his website: Or you can follow them on Twitter: or via Facebook: If you want to have a special treat, make sure you watch Never Hike Alone available on YouTube now:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.04); Forming the Plot (15.47); Prologue (18.45); Page to Page (19.11); Commercial Break (1:12.01); Film Trailer (1:12.44); Commercial Break (1:14.24); Lights, Camera, Action (1:14.57); Epilogue (2:29.30); End Credits (2:34.35); Closing Credits (2:36.50)
Opening Credits: Prelude – From the motion picture soundtrack Psycho – composed by Bernard Herrman.
Closing Credits: Sweet But Psycho – by Ava Max – Taken from the album Sweet But Psycho.
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
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Homicidal (1962)
William Castle’s now infamous take off of Psycho is now a modern B classic. Released with a ‘fright break’ where audience, if too scared, could leave and get their money back. If an audience did want their money back, they would have to sit in a special section called ‘Coward Corner’ and sit there as the audience left before their money was refunded.
The film would break box office records and placed on the top ten films of 1962. The films shock ending surpassed Psycho’s for some critics but the audiences ate it up. The film starred Jean Arliss (Joan Marshall), Patricia Breslin and Glenn Corbett. A matter of interest is Jean Arliss whose real name is Joan Marshall would be cast in the pilot of The Munsters as Phoebe Munster but the part would be cast when it was picked up with Yvonne DeCarlo playing the same character but now as Lily Munsters.
Our special guest host Will Millar has written about William Castle. If you would like more information, you can find them on his blog which are the following links:
Dressed to Kill (1980)
Brian DePalma’s ode to Psycho in his 1980’s classic Dressed to Kill would set a new bar in shock with an already tried formula. The 80’s audience were not ready for this film when it hit cinemas but it would go on to be a modern horror classic.
Released initially with an X rating then trimmed to get a hard R rating, Dressed to Kill would be released as a erotic mystery thriller. The film stars Nancy Allen, Michael Kain, Angie Dickinson, Keith Gordon and Dennis Franz. Music score by Pino Donaggio and written and directed by Brian DePalma.
We are joined by Matthew Brockmeyer author of Kind Nepenthe, winner of the Maxie award 2018 and Will Millar, author of Infernal Machines and Children of Judas series. Make sure you check out their work on Amazon which both authors are receiving fantastic reviews and you do not want to miss a single release from these two incredible authors.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.26); Forming the Plot (9.17); Prologue (16.35); Commercial Break (17.07); Film Trailer (17.39); Page to Page (20.03); Outlining the Script (54.57); Commercial Break (58.11); Film Trailer (58.42); In Sequence (1:00.51); Lights, Camera, Action (1:12.56); Epilogue (1:51.01); End Credits (1:59.42); Closing Theme (2:02)
Opening Credits – Dressed to Kill (Pulsion) – composed by Pino Donnagio from the album Nicholas Winding Refn Presents: The Wicked Die Young
Closing Credits – Dressed to Kill – by Cher from the album Closer Than Truth
All songs rights reserved
All music available through Amazon.
Frenzy (1972)
Known as the last great Hitchcock film, this 1972 film was the first Hitchcock film to show full on nudity and would turn the notch up from the violence we experienced in his earlier film Psycho. Set entirely in England and using locations set around London as the scene, this film became a box office smash.
Frenzy starred Jon Finch, Anna Massey, Billie Whitelaw, Jean Marsh and Barry Foster. The script was written by Anthony Schaffer who would go on to write The Wicker Man and screenplays for Murder on the Orient Express, Death on the Nile amongst others. This is Hitchcock in all his finer tuned qualities to make this his penultimate film before his death.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.23); Forming the Plot (5.27); Commercial Break (14.45); Film Trailer (15.15); Commercial Break (15.55); Scene by Scene (16.38); Lights, Camera, Action (17.22); Epilogue (1:00.30); End Credits (1:02.15); Closing Credits (1:04.12)
Opening Credits: London Theme from Frenzy – by the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra from the album Psycho – The Essential Alfred Hitchcock Collection.
Closing Credits: Psycho Killer – by The Flying Pickets – Taken from the album Lost Boys.
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
October 2018
Must be the Season of the Witch
The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
The novel was written by John Updike and originally set in the 1960’s. The film would update the film to the 80’s with a screenplay by Michael Cristofer (Gia) and interestingly enough was one of the voices used in the Exorcist. The film would be directed by George Miller (Mad Max).
The film would differentiate from the book but this would not deter the film from becoming a smash casting the likes of Cher, Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer, Veronica Cartwright and Jack Nicholson in the main roles. The film would be known for its heavy handed effects and an over the top comedy performance by Nicholson.
Interesting note, Bill Murray was considered by Daryl Van Horne role.
We welcome back C. Derick Miller (Taste of Home Series) and Barbara Venkataraman who joins us on our month of Must be the Season of the Witch.
You can find more information about C. Derick Miller on his website: or you can follow them on Twitter: or via Facebook:
For more information about Barbara Venkataraman, you can follow her via Goodreads: Facebook: or Twitter:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (5.30); Forming the Plot (13.16); Page to Page (14.27); Commercial Break (1:04.30); Film Trailer (1:05.05); Commercial Break (1:06.26); Lights, Camera, Action (1:07.10); Epilogue (1:30.53); End Credits (1:37.56); Closing Credits (1:41.02)
Opening Credits: Dance of the Witches – From the motion picture soundtrack Witches of Eastwick – composed by John Williams.
Closing Credits: Witchcraft – by Book of Love – Taken from the album MMXVI – The 30th Anniversary Collection
All rights reserved.
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Shudder October 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
Suspiria (1977)
Dario Argento’s masterpiece written by his then wife Daria Nicolodi and Argento himself, the story centres around the first of the three mothers trilogy which would continue the story in the films Inferno and Sins of the Mother.
The film would need to be cut by eight minutes due to violence to get a hard “R” rating. The film has since been released with all scenes fully implemented in an uncut format. Known to be a cornucopia for the eyes and ears though its use of sound and colour, Suspiria would take horror to a whole new level using these two devices to tell a story.
The film stars Jessica Harper, Stefania Casini, Udo Kier and Joan Bennett (Dark Shadows) in her last film role.
The Witch (2015)
Written and directed by Robert Eggers in his first debut, The Witch is a period supernatural film which tells the story of a family in the 1600’s living on their own rife with their own superstitions.
The film was shot using only natural light and candles given the film its own unique look. The film would also adapt using 1600’s English language and shooting in a very remote are in Canada to give it credence to the subject material.
The film starred Anya Taylor Joy, Ralph Ineson and Kate Dickens and would go on to win numerous awards and become an instant horror classic within its own right.
We are joined by our special guest co-host Robert Kirby (award winning cartoonist of the classic series Curbside) and Tristan Drue Rogers, author of the new novel Brothers of Blood.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (8.09); Forming the Plot (12.40); Commercial Break (22.46); Film Trailer (23.18); Commercial Break (25.01); Page to Page (25.33); Outlining the Script (25.01); Commercial Break (1.06.58); Film Trailer (1.07.32); In Sequence (1:10.02); Lights, Camera, Action (1:11.17); Epilogue (1:45.46); End Credits (1:50.53); Closing Theme (1:53.20)
Opening Credits – Suspiria – composed by Goblin from the album Suspiria – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – Waking the Witch – by Kate Bush from the album Hounds of Love
All songs rights reserved
All music available through Amazon.
Opening Credits – Suspiria – composed by Goblin from the album Suspiria – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – Waking the Witch – by Kate Bush from the album Hounds of Love
All songs rights reserved
All music available through Amazon.
The Birds (1962)
Alfred Hitchcock 1962 release of The Birds was an experimental film that was loosely based on the 1952 novel by Daphne du Maurier. The screenplay by Evan Hunter better known as Ed McBain which he wrote under for his crime novels.
The film is culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant in 2016 by the Library of Congress. The film would also be known for its unusual soundtrack which is minus any musical soundtrack or song composition but in fact is supplied by bird sounds. This would give the film its own eerie significance in high suspense and at the time, out this world special effects.
The film stars Tippi Hedren, Rod Taylor, Jessica Tandy, Veronica Cartwright and Suzanne Pleshette.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (5.06); Forming the Plot (17.04); Commercial Break (33.49); Film Trailer (34.22); Commercial Break (36.32); Lights, Camera, Action (37.27); Epilogue (1:12.39); End Credits (1:17.03); Closing Credits (1:18.42)
Opening Credits: Theme from The Birds – from the Original Soundtrack The Birds and This is the Picture (Excellent Birds) by Peter Gabriel and Laurie Anderson from the album So.
Closing Credits: Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep – by Middle of the Road– Taken from the album Greatest Hits.
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
November 2018
Who Are These People?
The Thing From Another World (1952)
Sometimes referred as The Thing, this 1952 black and white picture from Howard Hawkes is a true cult picture. Directed by Charles Nyby with a script by Charles Lederer (Gentleman Prefer Blonds, Front Page, His Girl Friday) and it is based on short story Who Goes There by John W Campbell.
The film reflects a post-Hiroshima scepticism about science and a negative view on scientists who meddle with things that should be left alone. The film was a surprise hit and would in later years be added to the Library Congress as a film that is culturally important.
The film stars James Arness, , Margaret Sheldon, Kenneth Tobey and Robert Cornthwaite. This film is considered one of the best science fiction horror films of the 1950’s.
We are joined by Steven L Kent and Nicholas Kaufmann (authors of 100 Fathoms Below) available at all good book stores.
You can keep in touch with Nicholas Kaufmann by clicking on the following links:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (2.22); Forming the Plot (10.01); Page to Page (11.31); Commercial Break (35.46); Film Trailer (36.24); Infomercial Break (37.54); Commercial Break (38.37); Lights, Camera, Action (39.19); Epilogue (1:25.15); End Credits (1:28.16); Closing Credits (1:31.09)
Opening Credits: Theme From The Thing From Another World – From the motion picture soundtrack The Thing From Another World – by Dimitri Tiomkin
Closing Credits: It Came From Outer Space – by Photon Tropodoes – Taken from the album It Came From Outer Space
All rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
The Thing (1982)
Directed by John Carpenter with screenwriting duties going to Bill Lancaster, the film was initially released with very negative reviews and flopped at the box office. It was one of the first films to gain an audience via home video. The reason maybe is that aliens have become cuddly due to the release of ET the same year so the audience were not ready for a being that was nihilistic in tone.
The film since its release is now considered one of the science fiction or horror film ever made. It has spawned sequels, copycat films and even a successful computer game. The 1982 novelisation sold extremely well.
The film stars Kurt Russell, A Wilford Brimley, T K Carter, and Keith David. Interestingly enough that the original film ‘The Thing from Another Planet’ is the film shown on the television in the ultimate horror icon films, Halloween.
The Faculty (1998)
Directed by Robert Rodriquez and written by Kevin Williamson based on an original script by David Wechter and Bruce Kimmel. The film would be known as a mix of Invasion of the Body Snatchers, The Thing, Terminator, The Breakfast Club with a pinch of Stepford Wives.
Although it did well at the box office upon its initial release, the film has since been criticised for its lack of punch though horror and science fiction fans have given the film a cult classic status due to the many references throughout the film. The film would go on to become a short lived television series.
The film starred Elijah Wood, Salma Hayek, Piper Laurie, Jordana Brewster, Josh Hartnett, Robert Patrick and Famke Janssen.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.00); Forming the Plot (16.33); Commercial Break (27.50); Film Trailer (28.24); PSA (30.20); Outlining the Script (31.04); Scene by Scene (31.38); Forming the Plot (1:27.42); Commercial Break (1.33.32); Film Trailer (1.34.03); Commercial Break (1:35.04); In Sequence (1:35.46); Lights, Camera, Action (1:36.24); Epilogue (2:13.04); End Credits (2:14.39); Closing Theme (2:15.44)
Opening Credits – Theme From The Thing – composed by Ennio Morricone from the album The Thing – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – Shape Shifter – by Lera Lynn from the album Resistor
All songs rights reserved
All songs are available through Amazon.
Opening Credits – Theme From The Thing – composed by Ennio Morricone from the album The Thing – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – Shape Shifter – by Lera Lynn from the album Resistor
All songs rights reserved
All songs are available through Amazon.
Shadow of a Doubt (1943)
Alfred Hitchock’s Shadow of a Doubt with a script written by Thornton Wilder (Our Town), Alma Reville and Sally Benson, the film deals with people are not what they seem in this classic film.
The film would be one of Hitchcock’s own personal favourite. The film would later be adopted in two remakes and one radio drama and would be known as Hitchcock’s first indisputable masterpiece. The film is now part of Library of Congress film for culturally important.
The film stars Theresa Wright, Joseph Cotten and Hume Cronyn.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (2.35); Forming the Plot (10.59); Commercial Break (16.32); Film Trailer (17.02); Commercial Break (18.17); Lights, Camera, Action (18.49); Commercial Break (55.36); Epilogue (56.47); End Credits (58.09); Closing Credits (59.17)
Opening Credits: Theme from Shadow of a Doubt from the– Alfred Hitchcock Extraordinaire by Dimiti Tomkin
Closing Credits: Charlie – by Big Pig– Taken from the album Bonk!.
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Shudder November 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
December 2018
Merry CHRIST-mas!! The Controversy
Jesus Christ Superstar (1973)
Music Andrew Lloyd Webber
Lyrics and Book by Tim Rice
Film Directed by Norman Jewison
A rock opera conceived and written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice in 1970, the album would be a huge success with two songs becoming international hits ‘Superstar’ by Murray Head and ‘I Don’t Know How To Love Him’ by Yvonne Elliman Interestingly enough, Yvonne Elliman’s song was done in one take with no rehearsals.
The Rock Opera would eventually be staged on Broadway and around the world before academy award winning director Norman Jewison would bring it to the screen. Using mostly a combination of the Broadway, original concept and touring company casts, and moving filming to Israel and the Middle East. The film was a critical and audience success finishing out the year as one of the most successful film of 1973.
The film would star Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson, Yvonne Elliman, Barry Dennan, and Bob Bingham. Interesting fact is that Barry Dennen had a relationship with Barbara Striesand and help work out her night club act which would lead to her stardom.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.35); Forming the Plot (10.01); Page to Page (6.44); Commercial Break (37.08); Film Trailer (37.38); Commercial Break (41.04); Lights, Camera, Action (42.21); Epilogue (1:31.12); End Credits (1:3.4.11); Closing Credits (1:35.01)
Opening Credits: Superstar – Murray Head taken from the original 1969 concept album Jesus Christ Superstar
Closing Credits: White Christmas – by The Drifters– Taken from the album White Christmas – The 50 Best Christmas Songs
All rights reserved.
All songs available from Amazon.
Monty Python’s The Life of Brian (1979)
Written by Monty Python (Graham Young, John Cleece, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Gillam and Terry Jones) and directed by Terry Jones, this would end up being one of the most successful films of 1979.
After completing and releasing their film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, they were debating on what their next project would be. As they had a distrust for organised religion. Looking at Jesus as not a comical feature and what Jesus is known for and spoke was not exactly comedy material but what about mistaken identity. This would springboard The Life of Brian. The film would be filmed in Tunsia and use most of the sets from the miniseries of Zefferelli’s Jesus of Nazereth even using most the crowd extras.
The film would court controversy and be banned in numerous countries. Monty Python would use this in their advertising campaign to full effect.
Saved! (2004)
Directed by Brian Dannelly and written by Dannelly and Michael Urban, this film is a teen comedy touching on religion, ostracism, homophobia, teen pregnancy, divorce and disability.
The film was released with mixed reviews due to its subject matter but be successful enough to earn is cult status today. The film has also spawned an off Broadway musical with the same name. At the time, the film’s good reviews were from film critics whilst the Christian presses gave it negative reviews.
The film stars Mandy Moore, Mary Louise Parker, Macaulty Caulkin, Patrick Fugit and Martin Donovan. Love it or hated, this will be one film that will keep the controversy going.
We are joined by C Derrick Miller, author of the Taste of Home series.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.50); Forming the Plot (9.35); Commercial Break (17.15); Film Trailer (17.47); Outlining the Script (21.10); Scene by Scene (21.44); Forming the Plot (57.00); Commercial Break (1.00.17); Film Trailer (1.00.48); In Sequence (1:03.21); Lights, Camera, Action (1:04.02); Epilogue (1:25.47); End Credits (1:35.19); Closing Theme (1:37.12)
Opening Credits – Always Look On A Bright Side Of Life – Eric Idle from the album Monty Python’s Life of Brian - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – Blue Christmas – by Elvis Presley from the album Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
All songs rights reserved
All song available through Amazon.
The Lady Vanishes (1938)
Written by Sidney Gilliant and Frank Launder and based on the book, The Wheels Spin by Ethel Lina White, Alfred Hitchcock’s last British film before moving to America is a sure fire winner. It is ranked as the 35th greatest British film ever made.
The film would deal with the lead up to World War II and dealt with espionage. It would be the first motion picture for the two leads Margaret Lockwood and Michael Redgrave. The film would solidify David O’Selznick’s belief that Hitchcock was the future of cinema. This film would lead him to go to Hollywood to film Rebecca and of course, we know what happens after this point.
The Lady Vanishes is a true classic starring some of the best character actors found in Britain.
We are joined by our special guest co-host Josef Alton (Throw Away Faces) You can following via Facebook: Twitter: or via his Website:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.40); Forming the Plot (9.29); Commercial Break (16.02); Film Trailer (16.38); Commercial Break (18.22); Prologue (19.33); Lights, Camera, Action (20.16); Epilogue (55.46); End Credits (1:00.51); Closing Credits (1:02.51)
Opening Credits: It’s Christmas Eve from the soundtrack A Christmas Horror Story composed by Alex Khaskin
Closing Credits: Jingle Bells – by Ella Fitzgerald – Taken from the album A Swinging Christmas and Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Bing Crosby and James Stewart Taken from the album It’s Christmas
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Year in Review 2018
Vickie Rae, Jon Wilson and Keith Chawgo look at the highs and lows of 2018 and discuss television, films and music and things across a wide spectrum which includes some of the times we are living in.
Come and join our happy trio as we digest the year that was 2018.
Opening Credits - Different - by Cass Elliott - From the album The Complete Recordings of 'Mama' Cass Elliott
Closing Credits - Put A Little Love In Your Heart - by Dolly Parton - From the album Slow Dancing with the Moon.
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Shudder December 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
January 2019
Sybil (1976)
Sybil is the true story of Shirley Ardell Mason, a woman with sixteen different personalities. In order to secure her anonymity. The book and two part film, starts with Sybil blacking out and it slowly unfolds to reveal the separate personalities and is a close representation of the book by Flora Rheta Schreiber.
Using extensive therapies which include amobarbital and hypnosis, Cornelia B Wilbur would diagnose her as having disassociated identity disorder. The book was a bestseller and would become a very successful television film on NBC in November 1976 earning Sally Fields an Emmy and the film would win a special Peabody Award.
After everyone who was involved with the Sybil story died, a couple of people have argued about the legality of the “Sybil” case. People who knew Shirley Ardell Mason argue that the story is legit. It is often queried why the people who discredit the story would wait until the death of Mason and Wilbur to come forward. We may never know the true story but it is one of the most interesting true stories that we can’t help explore the case of Sybil.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (5.15); Forming the Plot (20.56); Page to Page (28.07); Commercial Break (1:27.02); Film Trailer (1:28.56); Lights, Camera, Action (1:30.09); Epilogue (2:04.33); End Credits (2:10.29); Closing Credits (2:11.34)
Opening Credits: Me and I - by Abba – From the album Supertrouper
Closing Credits: Multiple Personalities – by Ghost Town Hangmen – Taken from the album Multiple Personalities
All rights reserved.
All songs available on Amazon
We apologise for the sound quality. Our new equipment didn't go as plan.
The Economic Family
Unbreakable (2000)
Written, directed and produced by M Night Shyamalan, the film would be the second collaboration with Bruce Willis after the large success of The Sixth Sense. Setting up the film in a three part story and to present it in this comic book format worked and created parallels to superhero graphic novels.
Using slanted camera angles, would give the film its comic book look. The film also would use a colour scheme with Mr Glass in purple and David Dunn’s colour green. This would be the fourth film which Jackson and Willis would appear together and as a note of interest, Julianne Moore was to play Dunn’s wife Audrey but dropped out to play Clarice Starling in Hannibal leaving the role open for Robin Wright Penn.
The third part of the Eastrail 177 Trilogy entitled Glass would be released in 2019.
Split (2016)
M Night Shyamalan came back from a questionable fair misfires to release a film dealing with split personalities which brought him back to the hit film fanfare that he experienced with Sixth Sense. A horror, psychological thriller film, the film follows a man with 23 separate personalities.
The film is a considered a standalone sequel to Shyamalan’s film Unbreakable and is considered the second part of the Eastrail 177 Trilogy. The character of Kevin was written into the film Unbreakable but due to levelling out the film, were removed.
This is the first film since The Sixth Sense to break box office records and to finish up as number one for three consecutive weeks. The third instalment Glass will be released in 2019.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.43); Forming the Plot (9.41); Commercial Break (21.28); Film Trailer (21.57); Scene by Scene (26.34); Forming the Plot (1:16.41); Commercial Break (1:27.17); Film Trailer (1:27.54); Lights, Camera, Action (1:32.04); Epilogue (2:52.49); End Credits (2:54.29); Glass Trailer (2:55.30); Closing Theme (2:58.14)
Opening Credits – Unbreakable (Theme) – by James Newton Howard from the album Unbreakable - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – No More Heroes – by The Stranglers from the album No More Heroes
All songs rights reserved
All song available through Amazon.
Vertigo (1958)
This American film noir psychological thriller from directed Alfred Hitchcock is based on the novel D’entre les Morts (From Among The Dead) by Boileau-Narcejac. The film would cast James Stewart and Kim Novak in the lead roles.
It is the first film to use the dolly-zoom (camera effect to distort perspective to give a dizzying effect) which is now known as the Vertigo effect. The film used extensive on location shooting in San Francisco and would become a love letter to this American city.
The final script would be written by Samuel A Taylor (Sabrina Fair, Legend). Critics have interpreted Vertigo variously as "a tale of male aggression and visual control; as a map of female Oedipal trajectory; as a deconstruction of the male construction of femininity and of masculinity itself; as a stripping bare of the mechanisms of directorial, Hollywood studio and colonial oppression; and as a place where textual meanings play out in an infinite regress of self-reflexivity.
We are joined by our special guest co-host Josef Alton (Throw Away Faces) You can following via Facebook: Twitter: or via his Website:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (5.50); Forming the Plot (10.05); Commercial Break (25.02); Film Trailer (26.02); Prologue (29.10); Lights, Camera, Action (30.28); Epilogue (1:21.26); End Credits (1:23.28); Closing Credits (1:25.10)
Opening Credits: Prelude and Rooftops from the soundtrack Vertigo composed by Bernard Herrmann
Closing Credits: Love and Fear – by Imelda May– Taken from the album Life Love Flesh Blood
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Shudder January 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
February 2019
Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Roman Polanski written and directed American debut based on the novel by Ira Levin was a box office smash. Polanski would lift dialogue and scenes from the book for his script.
William Castle originally took the galley proofs to Robert Evans, head of production at Paramount. He already a few successes under his belt such as The Odd Couple and Barefoot in the Park. It was agreed that William Castle would act as producer and Robert Evans went after Roman Polanski for the role of director.
After Polanski read the book, he jumped on board and cast Mia Farrow, John Cassevetes, and older actors such Ruth Gordon, Sidney Blackmer, Maurice Evans, Elisha Cook, Peggy Kelly and Charles Grodin to round off the cast. The film is an inspiration for all film buffs and the book is still selling extremely well to this day. Ira Levin wrote a sequel to the book in 1997 called ‘The Son of Rosemary’ which sold well but was a critical failure.
We are joined by our special guest co-host Rob Kirby, award winning cartoonist and Duane Scott Cerny, author of Selling Dead People’s Things.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.18); Debut of a Podcast (8.58); Forming the Plot (11.46); Film Trailer (43.59); Page to Page (47.02); Lights, Camera, Action (47.45); Epilogue (1;43.47); End Credits (1:47.02); Closing Credits (1:49.48)
Opening Credits: Rosemary’s Baby Main Theme - by Krzysztof Komeda– From the original soundtrack album Rosemary’s Baby.
Closing Credits: Devil’s Song by Big Pig – Taken from the album Bonk!
All rights reserved.
All songs available on Amazon
Love Will Keep Us Together
Stepford Wives (1975)
Based on the Ira Levin film with script by William Goldman, Bryan Forbes science fiction horror film has received its well-deserved cult film status. It has even penned the term, Stepford Wife.
Bryan Forbes would over saturate the film with light and give it an over cheery appearance. All the filming was done on location with no sets built for the film. The film would suffer from numerous rewrites with a horrific ending rewritten at the last minute and not to Goldman’s appreciation.
The film would star Katharine Ross, Paula Prentiss, Peter Masterson, Nanette Newman and Tina Louise. A special note is that this is Mary Stuart Masterson’s first film as the daughter of Eberhart.
Get Out (2017)
Written, directed John Peele, this film gives a nod and update to the Stepford Wives but changes it so it is minority lead social message. After being pitched the film, Peele would write the script in two months.
The film exposes liberal ignorance and hubris are allowed to fester. It's an attitude, an arrogance which in the film leads to a horrific final solution, but in reality, leads to a complacency that is just as dangerous.
The film would star Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Christine Keeler, Bradley Whitford and Erika Alexander. The film would go on to be nominated for Academy Award, Golden Globe and a Screen’s Actors award.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.26); Forming the Plot (18.27); Commercial Break (30.01); Film Trailer (32.52); Scene by Scene (34.51); Forming the Plot (1:49.52); Commercial Break (2:03.44); Film Trailer (2:04.14); Lights, Camera, Action (2:08.48); Epilogue (3:25.38); End Credits (3:30.51); Closing Theme (3:32.58)
Opening Credits – The Kids Aren’t Alright – by The Offspring from the album Americana
Closing Credits – Gone Too Soon – by Rachel Tucker from the album The Reason
All songs rights reserved
All song available through Amazon.
Marnie (1964)
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, screenplay by Jay Presson Allen which is based on the 1961 novel by Winston Graham. The film would mark the end of collaboration for Alfred Hitchcock which would include Bernard Herrman (Score), Robert Burks (Cinematography) and George Tosasini (editor who died shortly after completion of Marnie).
The film was originally going to star Grace Kelly but after the citizens of Morocco objected, she declined. Other actresses where sought after before Hitchcock decided to go with Tippi Hendren after working together on The Birds.
Marnie would be a moderate success. It would mark the last for the Hitchcock Blonde. The film starred Sean Connery, Tippi Hendren, Diane Baker, Louise Lantham and Kimberly Beck (Friday the 13th: Final Chapter).
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (2.30); Forming the Plot (7.53); Commercial Break (16.38); Film Trailer (17.12); Lights, Camera, Action (23.05); Epilogue (52.56); End Credits (54.50); Closing Credits (56.10)
Opening Credits: Main Title of Marnie from the soundtrack Marnie composed by Bernard Herrmann
Closing Credits: Love Will Keep Us Together – by Captain and Tennille – Taken from the album Scrapbook
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Shudder February 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
Opening Credit – Cease to Exist – by Charles Manson – taken from the album Lie: The Love and Terror Cult
Closing Credits – Unworthy of Your Love – by Greg Germann as John Hinckley Jr and Annie Golden as Squeeky Fromme – taken from the original Broadway cast recording of Steven Sondheim’s Assassins.
All rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
Helter Skelter (1976)
Based on the book written by Vincent Bugliosi and Curt Gentry, they would come together with JP Miller to write the screenplay about the Manson Murders. The crime that shook the country and is known for killing the hippy movement in two nights.
Tom Gries would direct this two part television film that would shock and stun American audiences for upping the violence and sex on primetime television. This was also broadcast seven years after the initial crimes which was a gamble CBS was willing to take. It was a hit in the ratings and would be released outside America with extra violence and nudity to theatres to become a theatrical blockbuster.
The film shocked and stunned audience with its excellent star turns from Steve Railsback as Charles Manson and Marilyn (Texas Chainsaw Massacre) Burns portraying Linda Kasabian. The film would be nominated for numerous awards and win the Edgar Allen Poe for best miniseries.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (6.43); Forming the Plot (17.44); Page to Page (18.33); Film Trailer (1:26.05); Lights, Camera, Action (1:31.28); Epilogue (2:25.04); End Credits (2:26.52); Closing Credits (2:28.18)
March 2019
Time To Face Reality
The Girl Next Door (2007)
Based on a book by Jack Ketchum with a screenplay by newcomers Daniel Farrands and Phillip Nutman and directed by Gregory M Wilson, is a film that is very hard to watch but notable as it is loosely based on a true story. Ketchum was so haunted about the story of Sylvia Likens whose aunt and neighbourhood children would torture, rape, beat and eventually kill her over the summer.
The Girl Next Door is a hard hitting story that does not shy away from the situation that presents itself with an excellent performance by Blanche (Sixteen Candles) Baker as the diabolical Aunt Ruth. The film does have its own retribution level that doesn’t happen in the real story with one of the children trying to save Meg from her Aunt.
The film is very brutal and although this is a fictionalized account of the Sylvia Likens murder, it still gives a very strong punch.
An American Crime (2008)
One year after The Girl Next Door, Showtime produced and aired ‘An American Crime’ which tells the true story of Sylvia Likens murder. Script by Tommy O’Havers and Irene Turner and directed by Tommy O’Havers.
This true story is the shocking tale of Sylvia Likens who was beat, raped, branded and killed by her aunt, cousins and neighbourhood children in 1965. The film would have difficulty finding a distributor due to the subject matter but Showtime would show the film in 2008.
The film would star an up and coming cast which included Ellen Page, James Franco, Evan Peters, Scout Taylor-Compton and an award winning performance by Catherine Keener.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.49); Forming the Plot (29.11); Commercial Break (34.02); Film Trailer (34.32); Scene by Scene (36.52); Forming the Plot (1:20.39); Commercial Break (1:22.01); Film Trailer (1:22.50); Lights, Camera, Action (1:24.49); Epilogue (2:20.27); End Credits (2:25.12); Closing Theme (2:26.26)
Opening Credits – The Kids Aren’t Alright – by The Offspring from the album Americana
Closing Credits – Gone Too Soon – by Rachel Tucker from the album The Reason
All songs rights reserved
All song available through Amazon.
Rope (1948)
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, screenplay by Arthur Laurents which is based on the true crime story of Loeb and Leobald who killed 14 year old Bobby Franks in 1924. Before being a film, it was a successful play by Patrick Hamilton.
This is the first technicolour film of Hitchcocks and is known for being filmed in real time and edited to look as it is one continuous shot from beginning to end. It is the second film that Hitchcock would film in a limited setting. The film was shot using ten minute takes due to the size of the film canisters at that time and the set was the largest ever built for a film. The set also encompasses a cyclorama which was in the background with lights coming on in the New York City background, the sun setting and clouds made from spun glass moving across the sky.
The film starred James Stewart and Farley Granger and is truly memorable for its one shot momentum. Hitchcock makes two appearance in this film, see if you can spot them.
We are joined by special guest co-host Josh Monroe from the sensational The City Within the Walls. You can follow him by clicking on the following links: Website, iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, Podbean or via is RSS Feed.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (6.04); Forming the Plot (19.22); Commercial Break (30.14); Film Trailer (33.01); Lights, Camera, Action (36.36); Epilogue (1:08.15); End Credits (1:14.31); Closing Credits (1:17.42)
Opening Credits: Friendship Train by Gladys Knight and the Pips from the album The Best of Gladys Knight and the Pips
Closing Credits: Ball of Confusion – by Leon Bridges – Taken from the album The Get Down – Original Soundtrack from Netflix Series
Literary License Podcast would like to thank Netflix for the use of Ball of Confusion.
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Leaving Neverland (2019)
The 2019 four hour documentary film produced and directed by Dan Reed, focuses on two men, Wade Robson and James Safechuck who allege they were sexually abused by Michael Jackson. Riding on the coat tails of continuing the controversy surrounded with pop culture, the film takes an in depth and often hard look at the alleged sexual abuse. Told in a chronological order, the film would spark social media rows of whether the allegations are true or a matter of fiction.
At the time of recording, it has had an unprecedented effect on Jackson leading to some gut jerk reactions from removing him from popular television series and his music being played on the radio in some sectors. It has also sparked an allegiance to the #metoo movement and created a backlash from life long fans against Robson and Safechuck.
Interestingly enough, after the airing of the documentary in the UK and USA, Michael Jackson albums have increased in sales and his videos on YouTube have garnered more views than in recent issues.
We look at the four hour documentary Leaving Neverland and discuss our views on the documentary that looks at the alleged child abuse, fame and how celebrity is becoming a dirty word. Views found within the podcast are always open to debate and are the person views of the presenters.
Opening Credits – Lost Boy by Ruth B taken from the album Safe Haven.
Closing Credits – Controversy by Prince, taken from the album Controversy.
All rights are reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
Shudder March 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
April 2019
The Claustrophobia Is Stifling
Room (2015)
Directed by Lenny Abrahamson and written by Emma Donoghue based on her best selling book. When the book was published, Emma Donoghue wrote the screenplay and had it ready. She received numerous offers and rejected them due to creative differences. Lenny Abrahamson wrote a ten page fan letter to Donoghue which opened a successful negotiation.
Brie Larson won the lead role over such actors which include Emma Watson, Rooney Mara, Shailene Woodley and Mia Wasikowska. Larson would throw herself into the role which include consultant with a trauma expert and nutritionist and avoided sunlight. Jacob Tremblay was cast in the role of Jack.
The film is a Canadian, United States, United Kingdom and Ireland co-production and filmed in Toronto. The film would go on to be nominated and won numerous awards. The film also stars William H Macy and Joan Allen in supporting roles.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.31); Forming the Plot (28.11); Film Trailer (1:21.15); Lights, Camera, Action (1:25.21); Epilogue (2:18.33); End Credits (2:21.34); Closing Credits (2:22.34)
Opening Credits – You and Me Against The World by Helen Reddy from the album The Very Best of
Closing Credits – Toto (Don’t It Feel Like Paradise) by Lynda Carter from the album Portrait.
All songs available from Amazon.
All rights reserved.
Inside (2014)
Part of the French Extreme horror cycle, this home invasion film about a pregnant stuck in her house whilst a woman wants her baby for her own is a movie that will not leave your subconscious long after the final credits roll. Starring Alysson Paradis and Beatrice Dalle and directed by Julien Maury and Alexandre Bustillo.
The film is ranked as one of the top 20 horror films of the this decade and nothing will shake it off. This film is brutal, psychological and it did have an American remake that decided to sanitize the film for an American audience. Banned in numerous countries, Inside is a classic that will be with you for a long, long time.
Frozen (2009)
Written and directed by Adam Green, the film deals with three youths stuck on a ski lift in the middle of winter in the dead of night.
This tense claustrophobic thriller caused people to faint in theatres on its initial release due to high tension. The film did reasonably well at the box office. It stars Emma Bell, Shawn Ashworth and Kevin Zegers.
In interesting fact is Kane Hodder (Jason Vroohees) plays the part of Cody.
We are joined by Will Millar, author, blogger and interesting existentialist.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.37); Forming the Plot (15.14); Film Trailer (21.34); Lights, Camera, Action (23.59); Forming the Plot (41.52); Film Trailer (46.49); Lights, Camera, Action (50.18); Final Thoughts (1:25.20); End Credits (1:28.05); Closing Credits (1:31.04)
Opening Credit – Top of the World – by Shonen Knife – taken from the album If I Were A Carpenter
Closing Credits – Nobody Lives Forever – by Ula Ruth – taken from the album Nobody Lives Forever.
All rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
Lifeboat (1944)
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock with script by Jo Swerling (It’s A Wonderful Life) based on a story idea by John Steinbeck. It is the first limited setting films by Alfred Hitchcock which he would continue with Rope, Dial M for Murder and Rear Window. It was highly controversial when released due to what many interpreted as a sympathetic German U-boat captain.
The film is known to have no musical soundtrack except for the beginning and end credits. It is also known for its troubled shoots due to illnesses of all the cast and the near death accident of Hume Cronyn.
The film stars Tallulah Bankhead in a rare film appearance, Canada Lee, Hume Cronyn and William Bendix. Alfred Hitchock’s cameo appears ingeniously which he would use again in the film Rope. The film was nominated for numerous awards and remade a science fiction thriller called Lifepod.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.30); Forming the Plot (13.08); Commercial Break (24.39); Lights, Camera, Action (26.22); Epilogue (1:10.08); End Credits (1:12.36); Closing Credits (1:13.45)
Opening Credits: Rock the Boat by Hues Corporation the Pips from the album The Best of The Hues Corporation
Closing Credits: Sit Down Your Rocking the Boat – by Sam Harris – Taken from the album A Suitcase of Memories
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
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Shudder April 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
May 2019
My Sibling, My Friend
The Other (1972)
Screenplay written by Thomas Tyron based on his bestselling novel of the same name and directed by Robert Mulligan (To Kill A Mockingbird), the story tells the sadistic relationship between two twin brothers, one who is well behaved and the other, a sociopath. The role of the twin boys was played by real twins Christopher and Martin Udvardonky, the only time they were cast.
Mulligan would state that Ada is the heart of the piece and she would teach the boys how to dream but this would be turned into something sinister in the minds of the boys. The film was quietly released theatrically but has gone on to be considered a critics favourite.
The film would also star Uta Hagan, John Ritter, Victor (Little House on the Prairie) French, Diana (Dark Shadows) Muldaur and Jenny Sullivan. Interesting note Christopher Udvardonky would die at the age of 49 on the same date as the film premiered on TNT on 25 October 2010.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.01); Forming the Plot (6.37); Film Trailer (30.01); Lights, Camera, Action (34.52); Epilogue (59.02); End Credits (1:00.02); Closing Credits (1:01.02)
Opening Credits – Family Affair by Sly and the Family Stone from the album The Essential Collection of Sly and the Family Stone
Closing Credits – Family of Aliens by Teleman from the album Family of Aliens.
All songs available from Amazon.
All rights reserved.
Sisters (1973)
With a screenplay by Brian De Palma and Louise Rose and directed by Brian De Palma, this psychological horror centers around separated conjoined twins. The film is largely inspired by Alfred Hitchcock with musical score by Bernard Herrmann.
The film has unique individual point of view shots and split screens to show action happening simultaneously on the screen. It would go on to garner critical acclaim on its release and premiere at the Venice Film Festival. It has since been hailed for its filming technique and style.
The film stars Margot Kidder, Jennifer Salt, William Finley, Charles Durning and Olympia Dukakis in one of her first roles.
Goodnight Mommy (2014)
Written and directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, this Austrian film deals with identical twin boys who suffer from Capgras Syndrome (a psychiatric disorder in which a person holds a delusion that friend, spouse, parent, etc have been replaced by identical imposter).
The film only stars three people, twins Elias and Lukas Schwartz and Susanne Wuest. The film would be known as the top five films of Foreign films releases of 2015. The film is dark, violent and drenched in dread and is the perfect viewing for horror extreme enthusiasts.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.10); Forming the Plot (12.05); Film Trailer (29.19); Lights, Camera, Action (31.17); Forming the Plot (1:08.23); Film Trailer (1:12.02); Lights, Camera, Action (1:15.01); Final Thoughts (1:50.47); End Credits (1:56.34); Closing Credits (1:58.34)
Opening Credit – Sisters - by Bette Midler and Linda Ronstadt – taken from the album Bette Midler Sings the Rosemary Clooney Songbook
Closing Credits – Mother Stands For Comfort – by Kate Bush – taken from the album Hounds of Love
All rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
Stage Fright (1950)
The script was adapted by Whitfield Cook and Ranald MacDougall from the novel Man Running by Selwyn Jepson. This 1950 British Thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock would include a host of big British talent.
The films stars Jane Wynan and Marlene Dietrich the only two non British actors. The British actors would include Richard Todd, Alastair Sims, Sybil Thorndyke, Kay Walsh and Joyce Grenfell. The film is also notable as the film Hitchcock let the actor direct themselves which was the late Marlene Dietrich. When asked about this, Hitchcock would state, ‘Marlene was a professional star. She was also a professional cameraman, art director, editor, costume designer, hairdresser, makeup woman, composer, producer and director’.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.32); Forming the Plot (26.05; Commercial Break (31.20); Lights, Camera, Action (34.55); Epilogue (1:12.50); End Credits (1:15.54); Closing Credits (1:16.52)
Opening Credits: If by Sally Mayes from the album Our Private World
Closing Credits: Life Upon The Wicked Stage – by Blossom Dearie – Taken from the album It’s the Lovely….Blossom Dearie Volume 4
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
June 2019
Drac-ing To and Fro!
Dracula (1931)
Garrett Ford (Frankenstein, Mark of Zorro) would adapt the classic Bram Stoker novel for the screen which was directed by Tod Browning. The film is actually more based on the 1924 stage play and very loosely based on the novel.
Although Nosferatu (1922), German expressionist film, was released and ordered to be destroyed by Bram Stoker’s widow due to copyright infringement, the team of Dracula would study the film to help bring their film to life for Universal. The film feels like a silent film through style and direction due to Browning having most of his experience in silent films.
The film would star Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners and Dwight Frye. In 1998, Phillip Glass would compose a score for this Dracula. Interestingly enough, Tod Browning would film during the day and at night, George Melford would film the Spanish version of the same film which both versions can be found on the Blu-Ray release with interesting results.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (5.27); Forming the Plot (14.15); Film Trailer (53.53); Lights, Camera, Action (56.54); Epilogue (1:30.42); End Credits (1:38.58); Closing Credits (1:39.49)
Opening Credits – Dracula by Gorillaz from the album Clint Eastwood
Closing Credits – Dracula Teeth by The Last Shadow Puppets from the album Everything You’ve Come To Expect.
All songs available from Amazon.
All rights reserved.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
This time around James V Hart would write the screenplay and director duties would be Francis Ford Coppola. The film would come to Coppola after Ryder presented it to him after feeling guilty for dropping out of Godfather Part III.
Filmed entirely on sound stages and using practical effects over digital effects, Coppola would rely on giving the film an erotic dream feel throughout the film. The film would get good notices for most of the cast though Keanu Reeves would be the brunt of bad reviews.
The film starred Wynonna Ryder, Keanu Reeves, Gary Oldman, Anthony Hopkins and Sadie Frost. The film would go on to win Academy Awards for makeup design and costume ignoring the acting categories all together.
Love At First Bite (1979)
Written by Robert Kaufman and directed by Stan Dragoti and a spoof of Dracula, the film would become a box office success. It would transport Dracula to New York City after being evicted from his Castle by the Romanian government as they needed his castle to be the new sports center.
The film would start George Hamilton, Susan St James, Richard Benjamin, Arte Johnson and Dick Shawn. They would showcase their comedy talent by looking at love and lust in 1970’s New York City. A sequel has been in planning stages since 1980 with no luck as of date.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.50); Forming the Plot (15.35); Film Trailer (21.31); Lights, Camera, Action (25.08); Forming the Plot (57.06); Film Trailer (1:04.59); Lights, Camera, Action (1:09.31); Final Thoughts (1:42.15); End Credits (1:46.34); Closing Credits (1:48.04)
Opening Credit – Vampire Hunters - by Wojciech Kilar – taken from the album Bram Stoker’s Dracula Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – I Love the Nightlife (Disco ‘Round) – by Alicia Bridges – taken from the album The Collection
All rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
Rebecca (1940)
Written by a team of writers and Alfred Hitchcock’s first American film would bring him to the attention of the Academy Awards for a total of nine awards.
The film today is notable for having a lesbian flirtation going on with Mrs Danvers which Hitchcock would put into the film which was not in the script. The film was almost banned due to this but David O Selznick would push the film forward and eventually the Hayes board would back down for the film release.
The film starred Joan Fontaine, Laurence Olivier, Judith Anderson, George Saunders and Leo G Carroll. The film is a somewhat faithful adaption of the classic Daphne du Maurier and the first of three of her works filmed by Hitchcock. This is also the first film to start the film noir movement in Hollywood.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.04); Forming the Plot (10.19); Commercial Break (23.25); Lights, Camera, Action (27.54); Epilogue (54.37); End Credits (56.34); Closing Credits (57.16)
Opening Credits: Rebecca by Franz Waxman from the album Rebecca – The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits: I’m Not That Girl – by Idina Menzel– Taken from the album Wicked – Original Broadway Album
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
Shudder June 2019
Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae discuss Shudder and their picks of what to see each month on this incredible fantastic online services that gives it's audience the best of dark fiction, horror and thriller genres. The site has so much to offer and we each pick three of our best viewing for the month.
This is our last Shudder episodes. Thank you Shudder for all the great support and films and staying with us.
Shudder is service that anyone can join for the low cost of $4.99 (US) or £4.99 (UK). It is a truly low cost that will feed its audience everything that is great about this genre. It excels in independent features that our outstanding and stand against most of Hollywood heavyweights. Treat yourself to a service that knows it fans and honours them with intelligence.
Sleepaway Camp (1983)
This American slasher film written, executive produced and directed by Robert Hiltzik, would spawn multiple sequels, with one produced twenty years later by Hiltzik himself. The film would spawn an icon, Felissa Rose who will be forever entered into the annals of horror history.
The film tells the story of a young girl and her cousin who are sent to a summer camp where killings soon start. It’s unforgettable ending has haunt film goers since its premiere. Filming on a budget of $350,000 and grossing $11 million, this little film has captured audiences which has made it the camp classic it is today.
The film stars Mike Kellen, Jonathan Tiersten, Felissa Rose and an outstanding memorable performance by Desiree Gould. We are joined by our two new co-host, Tom Diamon (Dark Shadows) and Will Millar (European Horror).
We have a special guest co-host, the amazing writer, director, producer and actor Dave Campfield (Caesar and Otto films, Under Survillence and Dark Chamber). You can following him via the following links:
Website, Twitter or via his YouTube channel. You can also watch one of his Caesar and Otto short films – Caesar and Otto Meet Dracula’s Lawyer by clicking on the title.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (2.50); Forming the Plot (5.57); Commercial Break (22.08); Lights, Camera, Action (25.22); Epilogue (52.14); End Credits (57.30); Closing Credits (1:00.25)
Opening Credits: We’re Going To Be Friends – by Jack White – Taken from the album Jack White Acoustic Recordings 1998 - 2016
Closing Credits: Transvestites, Transsexuals and Chicks with Dicks – by Jeff Dahl – Taken from the album Street Fighting Reptile
All rights reserved.
All songs are available through Amazon.
July 2019
Out of the Mind of Curtis!
Burnt Offerings (1976)
Screenplay by William F Nolan (The Thing, Logan’s Run) and directed by Dan Curtis, this mystery horror film is based on the best selling book of the same name by Robert Marasco.
The film would become a horror classic and dealing with a house that uses a life force to rebuild itself. Bette Davis had difficulties on set with Karen Black due to her showing no respect and Oliver Reed for his drunken escapades.
The film stars Karen Black, Oliver Reed, Bette Davis, Eileen Heckart, Burgess Meredith and Anthony James. The film would go on to win numerous horror awards and the soundtrack composed by Robert Cobert (Dark Shadows).
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.35); Forming the Plot (6.55); Film Trailer (35.57); Lights, Camera, Action (40.41); Epilogue (1:04.34); End Credits (1:10.47); Closing Credits (1:11.35)
Opening Credits – Obsession by Army of Lovers from the album Massive Luxury Overload
Closing Credits – House Is Not A Home by Rumer from the album This Girl Is In Love
All songs available from Amazon.
All rights reserved.
House of Dark Shadows (1970)
Written by Sam Hall and Gordon Russell and directed by Dan Curtis. This is a film of the classic soap opera Dark Shadows. In this film expansion, vampire Barnabas Collins looks for a cure for his vampirism. He used the basic Barnabas story line but with a modified ending.
After the huge success of this daytime serial, Curtis decided to expand this into a feature film. The film is more violent that its daytime counterpart and was given a R rating upon its release. It would cast the television stars to reprise their roles.
The film stars Kathryn Leigh Scott, Jonathan Frid, Grayson Hall, Roger Davis, Nancy Barrett, John Karlen and Louis Edmonson. During the time of filming, some of the stars were written out of the day time serial and returned back once their time on the film was done.
Trilogy of Terror (1975)
Written by William F Nolan and Richard Matheson and directed by Dan Curtis this three story anthology film all starring Karen Black.
The film starred Karen Black, John Karlen and Gregory Harrison. The film was a network smash in the ratings and has since become a horror classic. Karen Black blames the popularity of this film from only being cast in B Horror films.
Our special guest co-host is Tom Diamon (The Literary License Podcast Dark Shadows co-host) and Rod Labbe, journalist and novelist. We also have a special interview by Tom Diamon with the one and only Roger Davis, who gives us a special insight into the making of House of Dark Shadows.
A very special thank you to Don Capone who helped with a very difficult audio with the Roger Davis. Check out his website by clicking here. HERE
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.50); Forming the Plot (14.34); Film Trailer (24.01); Lights, Camera, Action (27.44); Interview with Roger Davis (1:17.32); Forming the Plot (1:56.40); Lights, Camera, Action (2:06.02); Final Thoughts (2:30.33); End Credits (2:47.37); Closing Credits (2:49.11)
Opening Credit – Barnabas - by Vampire State Building – taken from the album Dark Shadows 30th Anniversary
Closing Credits – I Was Jesus In Your Veins – by Amy Studt - single out now
All rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.
Rear Window (1954)
Based on the short story, It Had To Be Murder by Cornell Woolrich, with script written by John Michael Hayes and directed by Alfred Hitchcock. This film is considered one of the greatest films ever made.
The film is filmed entirely on a purpose built set which was the largest of kind with a massive drainage system to accommodate the rain. The actors would all stay on set through all of filming living their lives in their flats as their characters.
The film stars James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Thelma Ritter and Raymond Burr.
We are joined by director, writer and actor Dave Campfield. You can view his film that was inspired by Rear Window through Amazon. Click here:
We also have one of our favourite authors of dark fiction/horror Jonathan Janz whose books will send a chill down your back whilst keeping you thoroughly entranced by his plots and characters. Make sure you sign up for his newsletter via his website by Clicking Here:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (2.27); Forming the Plot (7.08); Commercial Break (14.24); Lights, Camera, Action (19.26); Epilogue (1:29.26); End Credits (1:33.57); Closing Credits (1:36.37)
Opening Credits: Rear Window by Franz Waxman from the album Rear Window – The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits: Somebody’s Watching Me – by Rockwell– Taken from the album Scream (Michael Jackson)
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Dark Shadows - July 1966
Episodes 1 - 25
"My name is Victoria Winters..." These are the words that would start a cultural phenomenon that would take the world by storm. Vickie Tom and Keith will be exploring the classic daytime soap opera that is still a cult favourite today. As we begin from Episode 1 we start our opus expedition to all things Dark Shadows. Covering the series one month at a time.
Victoria Winters arrives at Collinsport to a secret only Elizabeth Stoddard knows the answers to. Arriving at the same time and on the same train is Burke Devlin, a man whos secrets could tear the Collins family apart.
We are joined by special guest co-host Theresa Chase, writer, producer and script writer. You can follow Theresa on your links by clicking below:
We also have a special interview with Kathryn Leigh Scott which is Part One from this amazing writer, actress and business owner. You can connect through her website by clicking HERE:
Opening Credits (.27); Introduction (5.34); Out of the Shadows (11.51); Commercial Break (33.11); Into The Shadows (14.11); Shedding Some Light (35.15); Commercial Break (1:29.12); Interview With Kathryn Leigh Scott (1:29.45); Morning Has Broken (2:18.03); Tune In Next Time (2:24.22); Closing Credits (2:29.21)
Opening Credit – Journey to the Past - by Liz Callaway – taken from the Broadway musical Anastasia
Closing Credits – Demolition Man– by Grace Jones – Taken from the album Nightclubbing
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All songs available through Amazon.
August 2019
Hitching On A Master!
Strangers on a Train (1951)
American psychological thriller film noir with a script by Raymond Chandler, Whitfield Cook and Czenzi Ormonde, based on the novel by Patricia Highsmith.
Strangers on a Train would start the Hitchcock renaissance which would run through the 50’s and 60’s. It would be studied in depth by film studies especially for the scene of Margery’s murder and would have endless films use the plot such as Throw Momma From the Train, Sweet Revenge and Horrible Bosses to name a few. The film would also characterise light and dark and have a strong political context.
The film stars Farley Granger, Robert Walker, Ruth Roman, Leo G Carroll and Patricia Hitchcock.
We have a special guest co-host, the amazing writer, director, producer and actor Dave Campfield (Caesar and Otto films, Under Survillence and Dark Chamber). You can following him via the following links:
Website, Twitter or via his YouTube channel. You can also watch one of his Caesar and Otto short films – Caesar and Otto Meet Dracula’s Lawyer by clicking on the title.
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (1.30); PSA (11.58); Forming the Plot (12.54); Film Trailer (1:25.08); Lights, Camera, Action (1:29.59); Epilogue (2:35.35); End Credits (2:40.10); Closing Credits (2:41.40)
Opening Credits – Strangers on a Train Main Theme by Dimitri Tiomkin from the album Crime Scenes of Alfred Hitchcock
Closing Credits – Strangers by Hanne Mjoen from the album Strangers
All songs available from Amazon.
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High Anxiety (1977)
Written by a team of writers and directed by Mel Brooks and is a parody of Hitchcock which includes a nod towards The Birds, Spellbound and Vertigo to name a few. The film is dedicated to Alfred Hitchcock.
The film stars Madeleine Kahn, Mel Brooks, Cloris Leachman, Harvey Korman and Dick Van Patten. The film would be a box office smash.
Blazing Saddles (1974)
Written by a team and directed by Mel Brooks. The film satirises racism obscured by myth making Hollywood accounts of the Old West.
Hedy Lamarr would sue the film for making fun of her name which Mel Brooks would say he was flattered and the studio would offer her a small fee. The film would break box office records and be considered a comedy classic.
The film stars Madeline Kahn, Cleavon Little, Gene Wilder, Harvey Korman, Mel Brooks, Slim Pickens, Dom DeLuise and a cameo by Anne Bancroft.
We are joined by C Derrick Miller, fantastic author of the Taste of Home Series. You can check out C Derrick Miller at the following sites:
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (3.47); PSA (8.04); Forming the Plot (9.03); Film Trailer (16.32); Lights, Camera, Action (19.46); Forming the Plot (1:03.14); Film Trailer (1:05.38); Lights, Camera, Action (1:09.34); Final Thoughts (1:35.10); End Credits (1:42.36); Closing Credits (1:44.49)
Opening Credit – High Anxiety Main Theme - by John Morris – taken from the album High Anxiety Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits – I am Tired – Madeleine Kahn – taken from the album Blazing Saddles Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
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All songs available through Amazon.
North by Northwest (1959)
Screenplay by Earnest Lehman who wanted to write the Hitchcock picture to end all Hitchcock pictures provided this gem of a film that lives on in the halls of one of the best motion pictures ever made.
Hitchcock wanted to something fun and light with a murder mystery and a man mistaken. He has been running with the idea for a number of years until he decided to go forth and hiring Lehman to write a script.
The film stars Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, Martin Landau, James Mason and Leo G Carroll. The film is a box office smash and still breaks records on reissues. This is one of the films that reminds us why we love Hitch.
The sharks are in danger and we need your help. Please sign the petition to stop them from becoming instinct: The website is: https://www.sharkallies.com/nofinfl-support-sign-on
Opening Credits (.20); Introduction (4.23); PSA (17.30); Forming the Plot (18.31); Commercial Break (29.18); Lights, Camera, Action (34.24); Epilogue (1:18.39); End Credits (1:23.33); Closing Credits (1:24.58)
Opening Credits: Overture by Bernard Herrman from the album North by Northwest – The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
Closing Credits: Running For My Life – by Luciano – Taken from the album Reggae Gospel
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All Songs Available Through Amazon
Dark Shadows - August 1966
Episode 26 - 48
Roger Collins has an accident and the question on everyone's mind is whether Burke Devlin had anything to do with it. It seems like everyone has a problem with Burke except David Collins who befriends the enemy of his father.
Meanwhile Carolyn Stoddard and Joe are having their own relationship woes. Bill Malone has disappeared and only a crystal ball maybe able to find him.
We Must Stop The Fin Trade
Even though the fin trade is not the only problem, it is by far one of the biggest issues we are facing when it comes to saving sharks. Some shark populations have declined by more than 90% in recent decades due to overfishing, and this fishing of sharks is mostly profitable because of the high value of fins. Some of the species involved are being driven to the brink of extinction. Whether it is the cruel act of finning or the legal market for shark fins, at the core of it all is greed; to make money off a product that is valued as a status symbol.
Click on the this Link to sign the petition: https://www.sharkallies.com/nofinfl-support-sign-on
Opening Credits (.27); Introduction (5.34); Out of the Shadows (11.51); Commercial Break (33.11); Into The Shadows (14.11); Shedding Some Light (35.15); Commercial Break (1:29.12); Interview With Kathryn Leigh Scott (1:29.45); Morning Has Broken (2:18.03); Tune In Next Time (2:24.22); Closing Credits (2:29.21)
Opening Credit – Bad Boys - by Alexandra Burke – taken from the Overload
Closing Credits – Missing – by William Michael Morgan – Taken from the album Vinyl
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All songs available through Amazon.
Season Two Review
Jon Wilson, Keith Chawgo and Vickie Rae look over Season 2 and reflect what we loved and what we disliked about our season.
We also discuss what is coming your way in Season Three and share what surprises we have in store coming your way for 2019/2020.
We Must Stop The Fin Trade
Even though the fin trade is not the only problem, it is by far one of the biggest issues we are facing when it comes to saving sharks. Some shark populations have declined by more than 90% in recent decades due to overfishing, and this fishing of sharks is mostly profitable because of the high value of fins. Some of the species involved are being driven to the brink of extinction. Whether it is the cruel act of finning or the legal market for shark fins, at the core of it all is greed; to make money off a product that is valued as a status symbol.
Click on the this Link to sign the petition: https://www.sharkallies.com/nofinfl-support-sign-on
Opening Credits – Carry On Wayward – Cast of Supernatural the Musical – taken from the album Supernatural The Musical
Closing Credits – Edgar Allan Poe – London Cast – taken from the album Snoopy The Musical.
All songs rights reserved.
All songs available through Amazon.