Compelled by Schlock

This episode of the Compelled by Schlock Podcast steps away from our Friday the 13th movie review series to spotlight the fan films that kept Jason alive during the franchise’s long absence from the big screen. We sit down with Kody Newton, camera operator on Friday the 13th: Vengeance and cinematographer for Rose Blood and Vengeance 2, to talk about horror filmmaking, behind-the-scenes stories, shooting indie slasher projects, and what it takes to build something for one of horror’s most passionate fan communities.

Join us as we revisit Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives in our ongoing retrospective of the iconic slasher franchise. This horror movie podcast dives into the film’s bold tonal shift, its self-aware humor, and how director Tom McLoughlin resurrected Jason Voorhees as the undead slasher icon we now recognize. Whether you’re a longtime fan reliving the VHS-era glory or an indie filmmaker studying what makes low-budget horror work, we unpack the creative choices, filmmaking techniques, and legacy that make Jason Lives a standout entry in the series. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of the most influential chapters of 80s horror.

Strap in for a high-flying deep dive into The Rocketeer (1991), the cult classic Disney adventure that brought pulp heroics, jetpack action, and golden-age nostalgia roaring back to the screen. In this episode, we’re joined by special guest @MathewDRhys to explore why 1990s audiences were suddenly obsessed with 1930s and 40s pulp heroes, from The Shadow to The Phantom to this helmeted rocket man. We break down what made The Rocketeer work, what held it back at the box office, and how Joe Johnston’s direction helped shape the blueprint for future superhero films. If you love practical effects, retro futurism, or underdog Hollywood stories, this one’s for you.

Is Silent Night, Deadly Night (2025) a remake, a sequel, a requel... or something else entirely? In this out-of-theater podcast movie review, we dissect the newest entry in the notorious Christmas horror franchise, breaking down its kills, characters, themes, and connection (or lack thereof) to the original 1984 Santa killer cult classic. We explore what works, what doesn’t, and how the film fits into the current wave of legacy slashers and franchise reboots. Whether you’re here for the gore, the nostalgia, or the filmmaking insight, this episode unwraps everything this new installment has to offer.

In this episode of our movie review podcast, we take a hard-hitting look at The Running Man (1987), the dystopian sci-fi action film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and based on the novel by Stephen King (as Richard Bachman). We explore the film’s brutal satire of reality television, its over-the-top 80s action style, and its influence on pop culture and modern genre filmmaking. From Richard Dawson’s villainous turn to the film’s prophetic themes and explosive set pieces, we break down what makes The Running Man a cult classic worth revisiting—especially with a new adaptation on the horizon.

Whether you’re a fan of retro action, dystopian futures, or behind-the-scenes filmmaking analysis, this review has something for you.

n this episode of the Compelled by Schlock Podcast, we revisit Halloween II (1981), the chilling continuation of John Carpenter’s horror masterpiece. Set on the same night as the original, this sequel expands the mythos of Michael Myers while exploring the evolution of slasher filmmaking in the early 80s. We break down its atmosphere, tension, and storytelling choices, discussing what makes it both a worthy follow-up and a fascinating case study in horror sequel design. Join us as we analyze its direction, pacing, and legacy within the genre to uncover what truly works—and what doesn’t—in Halloween II.

In this full interview with cinematographer Kody Newton, we explore the making of The Death of Snow White—an ambitious horror film blending fairy-tale imagery with dark psychological themes. Kody shares insights into the creative process behind the film’s visual style, lighting choices, and camera work, revealing how indie filmmakers can achieve cinematic results on limited budgets. We discuss storytelling through color, lens selection, and atmosphere, along with lessons learned from collaborating on horror productions that push artistic and technical boundaries. This episode offers a rare look behind the camera at how vision, resourcefulness, and passion come together to shape modern independent horror cinema.

In this episode, we revisit Lloyd Kaufman’s outrageous cult classic The Toxic Avenger (1984), the low-budget Troma Entertainment masterpiece that defined schlock cinema and gave the world its first superhero from New Jersey. From its gritty practical effects and over-the-top violence to its satire of corruption and toxic waste, the film became a midnight movie sensation and launched a franchise of sequels, cartoons, and comics. With the 2023 remake finally making it to the public, we explore what makes the original such a bizarre, influential, and unforgettable entry in B-movie history, and what lessons modern filmmakers can still take from its DIY energy and fearless absurdity.

Join us for a full interview with director David Ryan Keith as we discuss Redwood Massacre: Annihilation (2020), the brutal sequel to his indie slasher series that pushes gore, suspense, and practical horror effects to new heights. Keith shares insights into the making of the film, the challenges of crafting a modern slasher on a limited budget, and the creative choices that shaped its atmosphere and shocking kills. From behind-the-scenes production stories to lessons on independent filmmaking, this conversation highlights what it takes to bring a terrifying vision to life and keep the legacy of slasher cinema alive.