Longlegs is a psychological thriller about a supernatural satanic panic killer, who murders without ever touching his victims. From twisted coming-of-age stories to the sinister use of dolls as instruments of control, we examine the cultural obsession with preserving and corrupting girlhood through fear, trauma, and moral panic. We delve into how government investigations mirrored societal anxieties about protecting innocence during the Satanic Panic of the 80s and 90s.

Suspiria (2018) is a haunting exploration of power, control, and the horrors of fascism, set against the backdrop of Cold War-era Berlin in 1977. Gabe discusses the differences in the two films, unpacks the themes of facism and guilt, as well as defines the three mothers and their role in Argento's world. Kat gives us a history lesson to understand the setting of this Suspiria and the motivation for the coven, dancers, and the psychologist.

Maxxxine is the final neon-soaked chapter of Ti West's trilogy, blending genres influenced by their respective decades. Gabe talks about how sexuality is explored in Ti West's trilogy and gives us a film history lesson on video nasties. Kat talks about the 1980s Satanic Panic craze.

The Witch is a psychological, folktale horror film that offers us a slow descent into a puritanical satanic panic. A witchy crucible tale that subverts the traditional empowering women narratives we're used to. Gabe shares what they took from the film and why a second watch left them terribly depressed. Kat gives a history lesson on Puritans, what brought them to the New World and what makes them different from the Separatists.

I Saw the TV Glow is an experimental, horror film that has audiences facing and exploring their identities. A personal tale of gender dysphoria, the film is heartbreaking and bizarre. Gabe talks about Owen's struggles with their identity, zipping yourself back up to conform to society, and why the sad ending isn't an ending at all. Kat talks about the millennial struggle for identity, how a generation raised by TV saw themselves on screen, and that it's not too late to find yourself.

It Follows is a unique, dwelling horror film that delves into the abrupt loss of innocence after an assault. While it can be seen as a cautionary tale about STIs, its themes run much deeper. Gabe talks about MC Jay's loss of innocence, reflects on the lingering monster of trauma, and deconstructs the myth that this is a film about an STI demon. Kat talks about the meaning of the monster, the importance of support systems after a traumatic event, and how the film's absentee parents solidify this as a millennial film.

The Craft is an unapologetically dark film where four teen girls live out a powerful fantasy of retribution and justice. Gabe fans over the power of witchcraft, found families, and outlets for societal rage. We call for justice for Nancy and try to tap into the four corners of the world. Kat gives a history lesson on women, witchcraft, and midwifery. Who gets to decide who the weirdos are?

Heathers is a dark comedy film that, through satire, challenges high school politics, social hierarchies, and the illusion of teenage depth. Gabe dives into this cult classic to unpack the weight of social hierarchies in school that mimic the big world outside. Kat gives us some background on why the teens in this film are so broken and what we need to do to avoid such a bleak outcome.

Sources in this episode:

Heathers: High School is a Black Comedy

Youth Suicide -- United States, 1970- 1980

Talk to Me is a supernatural, psychological horror film is a gut-wrenching, emotional film that explores the horrors of a teenage life for Gen Z. Gabe talks about the film's brilliant approach to a delicate subject - addiction. Kat educates on the impact of loss and grief on the growing mind. Talk to Me is a Ghouls favorite in horror. Highly recommend!

Bodies, Bodies, Bodies is a dark horror comedy that tests friendships and one’s flimsy perception of self. Gabe talks about the woes of Gen Z culture, connection, and community. Kat explores the way youth and wealth can negatively impact your capacity for love, honesty, and trust.