In this special episode, we’re joined by horror icon Jeffrey Reddick, the creator of Final Destination, for a nostalgic and in-depth look at his incredible journey through the genre.

We talk about his early love of horror as a fan growing up, how a chance letter to New Line Cinema opened the door to his first industry job, and how that foundation helped launch one of the most successful horror franchises of all time.

Jeffrey shares the story behind the original Final Destination concept, how it evolved into a cultural phenomenon, and what it’s been like watching it grow into a cornerstone of modern horror. We dive into his continued passion for the genre, both as a fan and creator, and explore his roles as producer on The Final Wish and Till Death Do Us Part, as well as his writing on Dead Awake and Day of the Dead.

He breaks down his writing process, staying inspired in today’s fast-changing film landscape, and offers insightful advice (and honest warnings) for aspiring filmmakers.

Plus, we explore his interests beyond horror, what keeps him grounded, and what we can expect from him next — including some exciting thoughts on the upcoming Final Destination: Bloodlines slated for release in 2025.

A must-listen for horror fans, creatives, and anyone who's ever feared the design of death. 

For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check out Jeffrey here - https://www.instagram.com/jeffreyareddick

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In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed producer Julie Baines, the powerhouse behind modern cult classics like Creep (2004) and Triangle (2009).

We dive into her early days in the industry and uncover the often-overlooked challenges producers face behind the scenes. Julie opens up about the making of Creep, how it went from a gritty underground horror to a fan-favorite, and the ambitious journey of bringing Triangle to life with director Christopher Smith — a film that still bends minds to this day.

We also explore her creative drive, what keeps her pushing boundaries in genre filmmaking, and her latest work on Something in the Water and the Video Nasty TV series.

Plus, a huge reveal about the future of the Creep franchise — you won't want to miss it.

From the London underground to time loops and terrifying TV, this is a conversation for horror fans and filmmakers alike.

For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check out Julie's work here - https://www.danfilms.com/about

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In this episode, we sit down with award-winning Irish filmmaker Ivan Kavanagh — the mind behind haunting films like The Canal and Son.

Ivan opens up about his early life growing up in Ireland, his deep-rooted love for cinema, and the passion that pushed him to pursue filmmaking in a traditional Irish setting. We talk about what drew him to horror, the movies that shaped his imagination, and the real fears that fuel his stories.

Ivan takes us behind the scenes of The Canal and the eerie aftermath of its release, as well as his process and inspiration behind the critically acclaimed Son (2021). He also shares what continues to attract him to horror-adjacent projects, some of his dream films yet to be made, and what might be coming next.

A must-listen for horror fans and filmmakers alike.

Check out more of my content here - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check out Ivan here - https://www.instagram.com/ivankavanaghfilm/

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He’s the brain behind Jeepers Creepers: Reborn — and his twisted imagination doesn’t stop there. In this killer conversation, we talk with writer and filmmaker Sean-Michael Argo about his journey into the world of horror, the art of crafting stories that crawl under your skin, and the raw reality of indie filmmaking.

Sean shares behind-the-scenes insights on working in the Jeepers Creepers universe, dives into his eerie upcoming projects (The Hoodoos & Feral Hymn), and breaks down why horror still has him hooked after all these years.

If you love indie horror, storytelling, and the darker side of cinema — hit play and join us for one hell of a ride.

For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check out Sean's work here - https://www.instagram.com/seanmichaelargo

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Join us for an unforgettable episode as we sit down with award-winning filmmaker Andy Edwards, the creative mind behind the zombie-comedy hit Ibiza Undead (also known as Zombie Spring Breakers in the US) and the dark, twisted thriller Graphic Designs.

Andy takes us through his journey into the world of filmmaking, sharing how his love of horror and genre storytelling ignited a passion that would lead him to craft some of the most unique and entertaining indie horror films out there.

We dive into the inspiration behind his first full feature, Ibiza Undead, and the wild ride of premiering it at Frightfest (UK) and Sitges (Spain). Plus, we get an inside look at his latest twisted fairytale project, the much-anticipated Rumplestiltskin movie, and how he continues to push genre boundaries with his production company, Paranoid Android Films.

Andy also shares insights into his work on horror anthologies like Midnight Peepshow, Three’s A Shroud, Blaze of Gory, and Grindsploitation, discussing how he balances humor, horror, and high concepts in his projects.

We talk about his creative process, his thoughts on the current state of indie horror, and what it takes to survive (and thrive) as an independent filmmaker in a rapidly changing industry.

Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or an aspiring filmmaker, this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of laughs.

Tune in for a conversation that’s as spirited as it is spooky!

For more content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check out more from Andy here - https://www.paranoidandroidfilms.com/

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In this episode, we sit down with F. Javier Gutiérrez, the visionary director of the 2017 film *Rings*.

We explore his journey into the filmmaking industry, what draws him to the horror genre, and his unique creative process.

Javier shares insights into his work, his inspirations, and what excites him most about crafting scares for the screen.

Plus, we dive into some fun and exciting news about his upcoming projects and his thoughts on the future of horror.

Don’t miss this deep dive into the mind of one of horror’s most intriguing directors!

If you enjoyed this - Check out my other content here - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

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In this episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented Chuck Bertrand—sculptor, artist, and mask maker—whose creations have haunted horror fans for years.

From bringing Psycho Vicky to life in the Terrifier franchise to crafting iconic pieces like The Haunted Mask from Goosebumps and his terrifying take on Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Chuck has made a name for himself in the world of horror collectibles and film-quality creations.

We dive into his love for horror, how he got started in the industry, and what it takes to transform nightmares into reality. Chuck shares his experiences working in the haunt industry, why he’s passionate about Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando, and how haunted attractions continue to inspire his work.

We also explore the crossover between horror fans and their love for collecting, why people are drawn to physical pieces of their favorite movies, and where he sees the horror industry heading.

Plus, Chuck gives us an inside look at his latest venture, Chuck’s Curiosities, and what terrifying creations he has in store next!

If you’re a fan of horror movies, masks, collectibles, or the art of bringing fear to life, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

Check out more of my content here - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check out Chuck's work here - https://www.youtube.com/@Chuckscuriosities

 chuckscuriosities.etsy.com

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In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker and producer Joe Bandelli, the driving force behind the Hell House franchise and the upcoming 825 Forest Road with director Stephen Cognetti.

We dive into his journey into horror, how he found his passion for producing, and the reality of independent filmmaking—the struggles, the rewards, and what it really takes to bring terrifying stories to life.

Joe shares inside stories from the Hell House franchise, including behind-the-scenes moments, production challenges, and where the series might go next.

We also explore his love for haunt attractions, how they’ve inspired his work, and the importance of immersive horror experiences.

For aspiring filmmakers, Joe breaks down what makes a great producer, offers advice on breaking into the industry, and gives insight into why indie horror remains such a powerful force in today’s market.

We also get into the current state of horror, what excites him about the genre, and some unexpected trivia, fun takes, and candid conversations along the way.

If you love horror, filmmaking, and the craft behind the scares, this is one episode you don’t want to miss!

For more content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

Check Joe's work out here - https://www.joebandelli.com/

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In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker, screenwriter, and author Joshua Hull, a true creative force in the world of indie horror.

We take a deep dive into his career, starting with how he first embarked on his journey as a writer and filmmaker, leading to his breakout novel Mouth and his upcoming book 8114.

We also discuss his work in film, from the darkly comedic slasher Chopping Block (2016) to the mind-bending cosmic horror of Glorious (2022), starring J.K. Simmons.

Joshua shares his experiences working in the horror genre, from the highs of bringing unique visions to life to the struggles of independent filmmaking. We also explore his incredible work on Underexposed!: The 50 Greatest Movies Never Made, where he unearths some of the most intriguing horror films that never saw the light of day.

Beyond his projects, Joshua reflects on his deep love for horror, the films that bring him comfort, and the ever-changing landscape of genre cinema. He offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers and writers looking to break into the industry, sharing the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Plus, we take a look at what’s next for him and his thoughts on the future of horror storytelling.

Whether you're a horror fan, a filmmaker in the making, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is packed with insights, passion, and a deep appreciation for the genre.

Tune in for a conversation that’s as inspiring as it is entertaining!

For more content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

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In this episode, we sit down with author and screenwriter Mark Stay for an in-depth conversation about the craft, dedication, and sheer determination it takes to succeed in the world of writing.

Mark shares his journey into storytelling, from his early days as a writer to breaking into the industry, offering an honest look at the challenges and triumphs of building a career in fiction and film.

We explore the differences between crafting a story for the page versus the screen, how pacing, character development, and structure shift between mediums, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Mark also dives into his love of horror, sharing his favorite films, inspirations, and the stories that shaped his creative vision. We also discuss his long-standing professional relationship with filmmaker Jon Wright, their collaborative process, and their work together on the Irish horror movie Unwelcome.

Mark offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring writers looking to make their mark in the industry, and he gives us a glimpse into what the future holds for him.

Whether you’re a horror fan, an aspiring writer, or just fascinated by the art of storytelling, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and inspiration straight from a writer who’s lived it.

For more content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror

For more from Mark - https://markstaywrites.com/

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