Opening Kill

Opening Kill

By Michael Duren & Brian O’ConnorArtsPerforming Arts
Download on the App Store

Opening Kill episodes

  • Opening Kill Episode 28: Friday the 13th (1980)

    In this episode of Opening Kill, Brian is joined by horror aficionado Shay Astor to revisit the slasher that started it all — the original Friday the 13th (1980). Together, they dissect the film's iconic kills, twist ending, and lasting influence on the genre. From Mrs. Voorhees' chilling reveal to the birth of Camp Crystal Lake lore, Brian and Shay leave no machete unturned. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a first-time camper, this episode is your perfect horror throwback.

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    1 hr 10 min
  • Opening kill Episode 27: Halloween Ends

    This week on Opening Kill, we dive into Halloween Ends, the baffling conclusion to the rebooted trilogy. As always, we run through the plot (good luck making sense of it), count the bodies, and hand out our Butcher Knife or Butter Knife award for the opening kill. Let's just say expectations were stabbed—and not in a good way. Tune in for the carnage, the confusion, and a few laughs as we try to figure out what the hell happened to Michael Myers.

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    1 hr 3 min
  • Opening Kill Episode 26: Cloverfield

    In this episode of Opening Kill, we're diving into the chaos of Cloverfield – the found-footage monster movie that redefined viral marketing and left audiences dizzy (literally and figuratively). We break down the film's plot, discuss the mysterious monster tearing through Manhattan, and spotlight the kills that made this a standout creature feature. Plus, we unpack the insane marketing campaign that had everyone scouring the internet for clues months before the film even dropped. It's shaky cams, split torsos, and government coverups – and we're here for all of it.

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    1 hr
  • Opening Kill Episode 25: The Ritual (2017) With Guest Joshua Dean

    In this eerie and hilarious milestone episode of Opening Kill, we venture deep into the Swedish wilderness with the 2017 folk horror gem The Ritual. We break down the film's chilling plot, iconic kills, and the existential dread that stalks our main characters through the forest. From Norse mythology to grief and guilt, we unpack the layered themes that make this creature feature more than just a monster movie.

    Joining us is our friend of the show and honorary Silly Goose, Joshua, who brings his usual chaotic energy and sharp insights as we navigate ancient runes, elk-headed gods, and camping trips gone very wrong.

    Grab your hiking boots and avoid the creepy effigies—this one gets weird.

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    57 min
  • Opening Kill Episode 24: Child’s Play (1988)

    In this episode of Opening Kill, we dive into the 1988 horror classic Child's Play! We're joined by fan of the show JP as we dissect the plot, laugh at the campy moments, and appreciate the practical effects that brought Chucky to life. From over-the-top kills to creepy doll antics, we break down what makes this movie iconic—and what makes it downright silly. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time watcher, join us for a killer conversation!

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    1 hr
  • Opening Kill Episode 23: Halloween Kills

    In this episode of Opening Kill, we carve into Halloween Kills with our signature deep-dive format. From the brutal cold open to the return of legacy characters and the town's descent into mob justice, we break down the film's highs, lows, and blood-soaked details. As always, we discuss what worked, what didn't, and whether Michael Myers still has the slasher chops to scare in 2021. And of course, we crown the opening kill with either the coveted Butcher Knife or the dreaded Butter Knife. Spoilers, screams, and sharp opinions ahead—this is one you don't want to miss.

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    53 min
  • Opening Kill Episode 22: Ready or Not

    In episode 22 of Opening Kill, the crew takes on Ready or Not—the 2019 horror-comedy where a wedding night turns into a bloody game of hide-and-seek. We dive into everything from the wild story and over-the-top kills to the cast, with lots of love for Samara Weaving, who totally owns the role of the badass bride.

    There's plenty of fun trivia thrown in too, like behind-the-scenes stuff and a few unexpected connections to other horror flicks. Of course, they break down the kills (because duh), talk about the gore factor, and just enjoy the chaotic energy of a movie that doesn't take itself too seriously—but still delivers on the blood and guts.

    If you're into rich people getting wrecked and brides with shotguns, this episode's for you.

    Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

    Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

    Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

    Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

    Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

    Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

    Email the show for questions comments or requests!

    55 min
  • Opening Kill Episode 21: Longlegs

    If you want to enhance your viewing experience, we highly recommend you check out https://thebirthdaymurders.net/ , then watch the movie!

    In this chilling episode, Michael and Brian sink their teeth into the 2024 psychological horror film Longlegs. They kick things off by unpacking the eerie plot, centered on an FBI agent drawn into a disturbing serial killer case that blurs the lines between the occult and pure madness. The film weaves a slow-burn narrative with bursts of shocking violence, and the guys are all in on the tension and dread.

    Acting Breakdown:

    Michael and Brian give major props to the two leads:

    • Maika Monroe as the emotionally reserved agent, who brings a quiet intensity that pulls the viewer in.

    • And of course, Nicolas Cage, who is unrecognizable and absolutely unhinged as the titular killer. They highlight his performance as one of the most haunting and bizarre of his career—somewhere between mesmerizing and nightmare fuel.

      The Kills:

      No Opening Kill episode is complete without breaking down the death scenes. The boys dive into the film's brutal and atmospheric murders, discussing their buildup, execution, and impact on the story. There's a lot of love for how the kills are used not just for shock, but to deepen the psychological horror.

      Opening Kill Rating:

      The big question—does Longlegs' opening kill earn the prestigious Butcher Knife, or get demoted to the dreaded Butter Knife?

      Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

      Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

      Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

      Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

      Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

      Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

      Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

      YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

      Email the show for questions comments or requests!

      1 hr
    • Opening Kill Episode 20: From Dusk Till Dawn

      Blood, Bullets, and Bats – From Dusk Till Dawn

      This week on Opening Kill, we sink our teeth into Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino's cult classic From Dusk Till Dawn. From heist flick to vampire showdown, we break down the plot twists, our favorite characters (yes, even the Gecko brothers), killer effects, and—of course—the unforgettable kills. Joining us for the carnage are our special guests from the research crypt, Daniel and Shay, who help us dig even deeper into the chaos. Grab your holy water and a shotgun—this one gets messy. This is also our 20th Episode! Thank you for joining us on this fun horror journey.

      Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

      Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

      Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

      Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

      Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

      Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

      Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

      YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

      Email the show for questions comments or requests!

      1 hr 10 min
    • Opening Kill Episode 19: Death of a Unicorn

      In this episode of Opening Kill, we're galloping through the bizarre world of the new movie Death of a Unicorn. It's a wild ride filled with magical mayhem, and we've got all the details. We break down the plot, the quirky characters, and—of course—the kills (because what's a unicorn movie without a little bloodshed?). Tune in for our deep dive, where we talk about everything from the plot twists to the best (and worst) kill moments.

      Follow Opening Kill on our social media, to stay up to date on news and fun series we are doing.

      Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/opening_kill_pod/

      Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Opening-Kill-Pod/61569602580667/

      Please subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and consider rating and reviewing! It helps alot!

      Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/opening-kill/id1777172081

      Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TwRykGUmXkdZqz5VKLKZP?si=e2c78820ad134728

      Amazon: https://a.co/d/0BwpWuU

      YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpeningKillPod

      Email the show for questions comments or requests!

      52 min

    About Opening Kill

    From the publisher's feed

    Opening Kill is the podcast that dives deep into the chilling world of horror films! Every Thursday, we explore a different movie, uncovering behind the scenes secrets, analyzing themes and of course…