In this episode, we unwrap one of the most infamous slashers of the 1980s — Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984) — a film that didn’t just shock audiences, but ignited a full-blown moral panic.

We dig into the movie itself, from its mean-spirited kills and sleazy holiday setting to its strange, unforgettable characters and grim worldview.

We break down what works, what’s unhinged, and why — despite (or because of) its rough edges — it remains one of the most effective and enduring Christmas horror films ever made. 

Beyond the bloodshed, we explore the wild behind-the-scenes story: how the film was made, marketed, and almost destroyed by controversy.

We talk about the infamous TV trailer that aired before family-friendly shows like Little House on the Prairie, why parents were outraged at the idea of Santa Claus as a slasher villain, and how protest groups successfully pressured theatres to pull the film from release just days after it opened.

We also place Silent Night, Deadly Night within the wider context of the Video Nasties era, examining how fear-driven censorship, tabloid hysteria, and home video panic shaped the movie’s legacy — and how later VHS, DVD, and Blu-ray releases helped reclaim it as a cult classic rather than a cultural punching bag.

Finally, we make the case for why Silent Night, Deadly Night has stood the test of time: its bleak tone, its commitment to being genuinely uncomfortable. Love it or hate it, this is a movie that refused to behave — and that’s exactly why it still matters.

Whether you’re a long-time defender or a first-time viewer, this episode dives deep into the film that turned Santa into a symbol of terror — and became horror’s most notorious Christmas movie in the process.

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This week on ClassHorrorCast, I’m joined by writer-director Mike P. Nelson for an in-depth conversation about the full creative journey of making a film — from that first spark of an idea all the way to release day.

We talk through Mike’s process from start to finish, his favourite parts of filmmaking, and how he decides which projects to say yes to. We also dive into the differences between working on original stories versus established IP, and why writing the films he directs is such an important part of maintaining a clear creative voice.

The conversation then turns to Mike’s latest film, Silent Night, Deadly Night (2025), starring Rohan Campbell as Billy. Mike breaks down how the movie came together, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the shoot, and reveals his favourite scene in the film.

We also talk about how he feels now that the movie is finally out in the world, the reaction from audiences, and whether he’d return to the franchise for a sequel.

It’s a thoughtful, honest, and passionate discussion with a filmmaker who truly loves the genre — and a must-listen for horror fans and aspiring filmmakers alike.

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This Christmas, we’re heading deep underground to revisit one of the most overlooked holiday horror films of the 2000s.

In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we explore P2 (2007)—a tense, claustrophobic thriller set on Christmas Eve inside a lonely, echoing parking garage where escape feels impossible.

We dig into the film’s chilling blend of psychological horror and seasonal dread, the intense performances from Rachel Nichols and Wes Bentley, and the behind-the-scenes influence of Alexandre Aja that shaped its tone and brutality.

Along the way, we unpack how the movie’s tight setting, gritty lighting, and growing sense of desperation create a uniquely unnerving Christmas atmosphere that most horror fans have sadly forgotten about.

Whether you remember P2 from its original release or you’re discovering it for the first time, this episode invites you to take a fresh look at a film that offers far more than its simple setup suggests. It’s a story of survival, obsession, and holiday terror that deserves a place alongside the genre’s festive classics.

So grab a warm drink, settle in, and descend with us to Level P2 for a Christmas Eve you won’t soon forget. 

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In this episode, we’re slicing into two of the most debated entries in the Halloween franchise: Halloween H20 and Halloween: Resurrection.

We look back at what worked, what didn’t, and everything in between as we revisit the late-’90s revival and its infamous early-2000s follow-up. We break down the characters, plot choices, kills, suspense, and behind-the-scenes drama that shaped each film.

From unused scripts and abandoned concepts to potential unmade sequels, we explore the alternate paths these movies could have taken. And of course… we dive into the many versions of the iconic Myers mask that appeared across both films.

Whether you love these entries, hate them, or fall somewhere in between, join us as we explore their legacy, their flaws, and their place in one of horror’s most beloved franchises.

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Welcome back to our monthly Horror Hangout — your cozy corner of screams, scares, and all things genre!

In this November edition, we dive into a packed slate of upcoming horror goodness and industry buzz. We break down the latest on Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein and what his vision could mean for the iconic monster.

We also dig into Zach Cregger’s Weapons and why his follow-up to Barbarian is already making major waves.

Plus, we chat about the updates on M3GAN 2.0, the return of Blumhouse’s nightmare kiddo, and the surprising news around The Black Phone 2 — including what direction the sequel might take.

All that, along with a mix of extra horror chatter, genre rumors, and the usual dose of nostalgia, laughs, and chaos. Grab a snack, dim the lights, and hang out with us — it’s Horror Hangout time.

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Filmmaker Thomas J. Churchill (Amityville trilogy, Big Freaking Rat) joins ClassHorrorCast for a raw, inspiring talk on creative control, investor “cookie jars,” and staying fearless without a safety net.

We trace his path from child actor to DIY director, the lessons of Devoured, why sound is his “first scare,” and how faith, family, and grief shaped the “Church-verse.”

We dig into Amityville as a sandbox (vamps, werewolves, uprisings), why continuations beat reboots, and how Terrifier tapped old-school energy.

Plus teases for Three Killer Pigs, Wax Man, and The Salem Chronicles. If you’re an indie creator—or just love horror that swings for the fences—this one’s for you.

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In this episode, I’m joined by filmmaker and YouTuber Ryan Hollinger, one of the most insightful voices in online horror.

We dive deep into his early love for the genre, how he turned that passion into a thriving YouTube career, and what it really takes to create meaningful content in today’s ever-changing media landscape.

Ryan opens up about the creative struggles, the burnout, the breakthroughs, and the delicate balance between art and algorithm.

We also take a nostalgic trip back to the days of Xtra-Vision, VHS tapes, and DVD rentals in Ireland, talking about the lost magic of physical media and what collecting means to modern horror fans.

From career challenges and creative independence to the future of horror on YouTube, this conversation is packed with honesty, insight, and inspiration for anyone chasing their creative dream. 

Whether you’re a horror fan, a creator, or someone who misses the buzz of finding your next favorite movie on a dusty rental shelf — this episode is for you.

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In this special Halloween edition of ClassHorrorCast, we’re diving headfirst into one of the most fascinating — and chaotic — eras in Michael Myers’ bloody legacy.

Join us as we dissect Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers, Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers, and Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers — three films that tried to resurrect The Shape and ended up birthing one of horror’s most debated trilogies.

From the rushed revival of Halloween 4 after Season of the Witch, to the behind-the-scenes chaos of Halloween 5, and finally the cursed production of part 6 — we’re covering it all.

We’ll explore the storylines that defined this era, the production issues that plagued the sequels, and the countless unused scripts, abandoned subplots, and alternate endings that could’ve changed the Halloween franchise forever.

Expect deep insights, wild trivia, and honest fan discussion about how this trilogy shaped (and nearly broke) the Halloween series.

Whether you love or loathe the “Thorn” mythology, this is the ultimate breakdown of the most misunderstood chapter in Haddonfield history.

So grab your mask, light up a pumpkin, and get ready — it’s time to return to Haddonfield with ClassHorrorCast.

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Step back into the shadows with us as ClassHorrorCast dives deep into the origins of one of horror’s most iconic franchises — John Carpenter’s Halloween.

In this first part of our Halloween retrospective, we’re breaking down the original trilogy that defined and redefined the slasher genre: Halloween (1978), Halloween II (1981), and Halloween III: Season of the Witch (1982).

From Carpenter’s minimalist masterpiece that gave birth to Michael Myers — The Shape — to the blood-soaked sequel set in Haddonfield Memorial Hospital, and finally to the bold and bizarre departure of Season of the Witch, we’re covering it all.

In this episode, we explore:  

• Behind-the-scenes stories and production secrets from all three films 
• Scene-by-scene breakdowns and how Carpenter’s visual style changed modern horror 
• Every kill — analyzed, ranked, and remembered 
• Unused ideas, alternate endings, and lost storylines that never made it to screen 
• The characters, the music, and the mythology that built Halloween’s legacy 
• And the fan reaction that changed the franchise forever

Whether you’re a lifelong Halloween fan or discovering the early films for the first time, this episode peels back the mask to reveal how Halloween 1–3 shaped the genre, terrified audiences, and sparked one of the most fascinating evolutions in horror history.

Listen now  — where we celebrate the creators, stories, and dark imagination that make horror unforgettable. 

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In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we go deep into the dark and fascinating world of horror storytelling with writer and director Jeff Buhler — the creative force behind The Midnight Meat Train, The Prodigy, Pet Sematary (2019), and The Grudge (2020).

Jeff has built a reputation as one of the few modern writers who can take classic horror themes and twist them into something raw, emotional, and deeply unsettling.

From the claustrophobic terror of Nightflyers to the brutal beauty of The Midnight Meat Train, his work explores the space between fear and fascination — where the human mind becomes the real monster.

We talk about how he first discovered horror, his journey from independent filmmaker to Hollywood screenwriter, and what it really takes to write stories that crawl under your skin.

Jeff shares insights on creative process, adaptation, collaboration, and how to find authenticity in a genre often ruled by formulas. Whether you’re a filmmaker, horror fan, or simply fascinated by the psychology of fear, this episode offers an honest, thoughtful look at how nightmares are built — one word at a time.

Press play, dim the lights, and join us for a masterclass in modern horror storytelling.

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In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, I’m joined by the incredibly talented filmmaker Armand Mastroianni — a name that might not always make the headlines, but one that’s had a lasting impact on both horror and television for over four decades.

Armand’s journey began with the cult slasher He Knows You’re Alone (1980) — a tense, atmospheric film best remembered for introducing a young Tom Hanks to cinema audiences.

From there, he continued to build a fascinating and varied career directing thrillers, supernatural dramas, and emotional character pieces, including The Clairvoyant, Cameron’s Closet, and the spiritually charged The Celestine Prophecy. Across our conversation, Armand opens up about his early days in the business, the unpredictable nature of filmmaking, and how he’s managed to stay inspired and relevant through so many changes in the industry.

 He shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories, reflections on the horror genre, and powerful advice for anyone pursuing a creative path — whether you’re making movies, podcasts, music, or any form of art.

This episode isn’t just about films — it’s about perseverance, passion, and the creative mindset needed to turn ideas into reality. Armand’s wisdom and warmth make this one of the most inspiring and eye-opening conversations I’ve had so far.

If you love horror history, filmmaking insight, or stories from the trenches of Hollywood, you won’t want to miss this one. 

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**This episode was filmed earlier in 2025 - delayed due to corrupted hard-drive**

In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we sit down with indie filmmaker Zack Imbrogno — producer, writer, and creative force behind projects like Slayers (2022), Fear, Inc. (2016), and Save Me — to uncover his journey into the horror and genre world.

We talk about how he first fell in love with horror, the challenges of carving out a creative path in indie film, and his transition into producing and writing. Zack shares behind-the-scenes stories from his work, stories of grit and passion from his career, and what keeps him motivated when the industry throws curveballs.

From curation to creativity, we explore why horror compels him, how he's adapting in the modern genre landscape, and which stories he still wants to tell.

Whether you're a horror fan, an indie filmmaker, or someone curious about the behind-the-scenes life, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

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Melting faces, buckets of gore, and one of the wildest finales in 2000s horror — House of Wax (2005) has it all.

Once dismissed as “just a Paris Hilton movie,” this Dark Castle remake has carved out a cult following over the years, thanks to its insane practical effects, chaotic energy, and a finale that quite literally turns the set into a burning nightmare.

In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we revisit the wax-coated madness to uncover what makes House of Wax such a standout in the slasher revival era.

We’ll dive into:

• How the film connects to the Vincent Price classic (and the original Mystery of the Wax Museum).
• Behind-the-scenes stories from its fiery production.
• Why critics trashed it but horror fans keep coming back.
• The legacy of House of Wax as one of the bloodiest, most over-the-top slashers of the 2000s.

Whether you love it, hate it, or secretly can’t stop rewatching it, one thing is certain: House of Wax is a horror experience like no other.

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In 2003, Halle Berry swapped the X-Men for one of the strangest horror thrillers of the decade — Gothika.

With its haunted asylum setting, ghostly warnings, and a story that veers between psychological thriller and supernatural horror, this Dark Castle release has become one of the most polarising films of its era.

In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we dig into the eerie atmosphere, the messy but fascinating plot, and the film’s mix of ghost story and conspiracy thriller.

We’ll look at: 

• How Gothika fits into the early-2000s horror landscape. 

•  Halle Berry’s powerhouse performance — and why she took the role fresh off her Oscar win. 

•  The film’s critical panning vs. its cult fanbase.

• Why Gothika is still being rediscovered by horror fans two decades later.

Was Gothika a misunderstood gem… or a supernatural mess?

Join us as we revisit this stylish, unsettling, and unforgettable entry in the Dark Castle catalogue.

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Thir13en Ghosts (2001) isn’t just another early-2000s horror remake — it’s a full-on carnival of chaos. With its glass-walled house of horrors, insane production design, over-the-top gore, and a roster of unforgettable spirits, this Dark Castle Entertainment cult favorite has earned its place as one of the wildest haunted house movies ever made.

In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we crack open the cube and step inside the Black Zodiac. From the film’s origins as a remake of the 1960 William Castle classic, to the mind-bending set design that turned an entire house into a deadly puzzle box, we’ll dive deep into what makes Thir13en Ghosts such a unique entry in horror history.

We’ll also break down:

• The iconic design of the 13 ghosts and why fans still obsess over them.
• Behind-the-scenes chaos, from Dark Castle’s big-budget ambitions to its early-2000s style overload.
• How the movie bombed with critics but found new life as a cult favorite on DVD.
• Why Thir13en Ghosts perfectly captures the loud, bloody, experimental energy of 2000s horror.

Whether you love it, hate it, or can’t decide, there’s no denying one thing: Thir13en Ghosts is one of the craziest haunted house movie ever made. 

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In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we unlock the doors to the twisted, blood-soaked funhouse that is House on Haunted Hill (1999).

Part remake of William Castle’s 1959 classic and part late-’90s horror fever dream, this Dark Castle Entertainment debut gave us Geoffrey Rush as a delightfully unhinged theme park tycoon, Famke Janssen as his venomous wife, and a haunted asylum packed with gruesome secrets.

We dig into the film’s wild mix of campy performances, stylish set design, and early CGI ghost work — and debate whether it’s genuinely terrifying or just gloriously over-the-top trash.

Along the way, we talk behind-the-scenes stories, the creative team’s vision, and how the movie helped kick off a short but memorable wave of high-concept horror remakes in the early 2000s.

From unforgettable gore moments to that infamous Vincent Price-inspired smirk, we revisit House on Haunted Hill to decide if it’s a haunted masterpiece, a guilty pleasure, or both.

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In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we revisit Alex Garland’s haunting and surreal folk horror MEN (2022) — a film that shocked audiences, split opinions, and delivered one of the most disturbing endings in recent memory.

We dive deep into the unsettling atmosphere Garland creates, the layered symbolism woven through the story, and Jessie Buckley’s powerhouse performance as Harper, a woman seeking escape from grief only to find herself stalked by something far darker.

We’ll break down the film’s rural English setting, its eerie use of repetition, and Rory Kinnear’s unforgettable (and unnerving) multi-role performance.

From the visceral body horror to the heavy thematic undercurrents about guilt, gender, and cycles of violence, we explore why MEN is so divisive — and why that shocking final act still has people talking.

Whether you loved it, hated it, or are still trying to figure out what you just watched, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.

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In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we’re heading back to the mid-2000s to revisit one of the era’s most underappreciated thrillers — Cry Wolf (2005).

A clever blend of teen slasher energy and psychological mind games, this film takes the classic “killer on campus” setup and twists it into something far more unpredictable.

We break down the characters and performances that bring the game of lies to life, from the charming yet mysterious leads to the side players who keep you guessing.

We’ll dig into the film’s layered storyline, full of red herrings, clever setups, and tension-filled moments that keep you hooked right up until the shocking finale — an ending you absolutely will NOT see coming.

From its sharp writing to its genre-bending approach, Cry Wolf proves that some horror-thrillers are worth a second look.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or have never heard of it, this episode will make you want to revisit the game… just be careful who you trust.

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In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, we step back into the shadows to revisit the early 2000s horror cult favorite Darkness Falls (2003) — a film that turned the Tooth Fairy into one of the decade’s most unsettling movie monsters.

We explore the movie’s origins and the behind-the-scenes story of how it came to life, from its production challenges to the creative decisions that shaped its tone.

We’ll discuss the fascinating concepts and urban legend inspirations behind the plot, the unique creature design that gave the Tooth Fairy her terrifying look, and the film’s use of light and shadow to deliver its biggest scares.

From inventive set pieces to moments that still hold up twenty years later, we break down what made Darkness Falls stand out in the crowded early 2000s horror landscape — and why it’s still worth another watch today.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or haven’t seen it since your teenage sleepovers, this is a deep dive into one of horror’s most underrated supernatural thrillers.

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In this episode, we go behind the scenes with legendary production designer Graham “Grace” Walker—the visual mastermind behind films like Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, House of Wax, Pitch Black, and a long run on The Walking Dead.

From his earliest art department credits on Caddie (1976) and Summerfield (1977) to his modern horror designs, Walker’s career spans gritty, visceral worlds and cult classics alike.

We unpack his work on The Walking Dead—eighty episodes of post-apocalyptic decay and must-see set transformation—and his stylized design vision in Baz Luhrmann’s surreal Beyond Thunderdome and the waxy nightmares of House of Wax.

But most thrillingly, we dive into Walker’s memories of the famously chaotic 1996 production of The Island of Dr. Moreau, directed by Richard Stanley and later taken over by John Frankenheimer.

Walker not only designed the sets, but appears briefly in the documentary Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley’s Island of Dr. Moreau recounting the madness on set.

Expect tales of:

• Building dense dystopias for The Walking Dead—how you make a world feel dead in every corner
• Crafting the post-apocalyptic cityscape of Beyond Thunderdome and the visceral horror interiors of House of Wax
• Surviving the Moreau production nightmares: creature-heavy jungles, star clashes, and set takeovers
• His early Australian cinema roots—including Dead Calm, Crocodile Dundee, and the early Mad Max films
• How production design shapes storytelling in horror, sci‑fi, and genre films

Whether you’re interested in film design, horror history, or the infamous legend of Dr. Moreau, this conversation with Graham “Grace” Walker is a journey through some of cinema’s wildest visual worlds. 

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