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In Episode 540, Ryan and Jose are joined by David Blair for another Book Club of Blood episode. This time, we cover Volume 4's "Revelations". This plus some Hellraiser news!
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and YouTube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : Ed Martinez YouTube Channel : Tribute to Angelique
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
News From the Reef
Book Club of Blood Discussion:
Show Notes
Listener / Barker Fan Comments
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
In this special bonus episode, Ryan and Jose review the Steam demo for Hellraiser Revival, as Jose plays it. We recommend watching the YouTube version to follow along with the game-play.
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : Ed Martinez YouTube Channel
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
Hellraiser Revival Demo Impressions
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Summary
Quick recap
Ryan and Jose conducted a live gameplay session of the Hellraiser Revival demo for their Clive Barker podcast, with Jose playing the game and sharing his screen via Zoom while Ryan provided commentary. They experienced technical difficulties with the screen sharing quality, but managed to play through significant portions of the demo including the tutorial labyrinth, cultist encounters, and puzzle-solving mechanics. Jose demonstrated the game's survival horror elements, crafting system, and challenging combat sequences, particularly noting the terrifying Chatterer Cenobite enemy and the game's explicit content. They discussed the game's graphics, atmosphere, and puzzles, with Jose praising the artwork and labyrinth design while noting the difficulty level on easy settings. The session revealed the game's focus on stealth mechanics, body horror elements, and the player's role as Sunny, who must navigate both Earth and Hell while dealing with cultists and Cenobites.
Game Demo Review Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed playing through a demo game, with Jose having completed about 40 minutes of play on the easy difficulty setting. They reviewed the game's graphics and content, including a home invasion scenario involving cultists and a puzzle box. Jose noted the high quality of the artwork and design elements in the game, particularly the apartment setting with details like a boombox and drug addiction information.
Labyrinth Horror Game Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed playing a game set in a labyrinthine environment with horror elements, comparing it to Resident Evil and Portal. They explored the game's tutorial section, noting its atmospheric lighting and challenging navigation. Jose encountered various obstacles and creatures while trying to find a way through the labyrinth, with both players commenting on the game's scary and gross elements.
Hellraiser Video Game Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed playing a Hellraiser video game, focusing on its architecture, puzzles, and gameplay elements. They explored features like using fire from glowing objects and moving rocks to solve puzzles, while noting the presence of Doug Bradley's voice and Christopher Young's music. The conversation included observations about the game's visual elements and cutscenes, with Jose taking screenshots of the gameplay.
Cult Game Demo Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed a game demo involving a character named Marlowe who was kidnapped and taken to a cult location. The game features interactive elements where players must break binds using the F button, and includes a crafting system where players can collect items to make bandages and coins. The discussion revealed that the game's box loads on suffering, and players will encounter various cultists and interactive challenges throughout the gameplay.
Scarlet Church Game Demo Exploration
Jose and Ryan discussed exploring a game demo set in the Scarlet Church, where they discovered they needed to interact with rotting corpses to find puzzle pieces. They identified that progress in the demo would not transfer to the full game, as it was separate from the actual game experience. Throughout their exploration, they found various items including paint, blemished diamonds, and a palette, while uncovering more of the game's narrative elements.
Cultist Navigation and Discovery Mission
Jose and Ryan discussed navigating a compound while encountering cultists and dealing with a body. Jose successfully opened a locked container using lockpicking skills similar to Skyrim. They encountered enemies who shot Jose, though he was able to continue the mission. The pair discovered an elevator and a bloody tunnel, eventually finding their way to an alley where they observed discarded bodies in dumpsters.
Cenobites Labyrinth Game Discovery
Jose and Ryan played a video game involving a labyrinth and cultists called Cenobites. They discovered an office belonging to a character named Bruno, who appeared to be involved in some kind of cult activity. The players found and used a "tongue key" to unlock a door, and encountered various disturbing elements in the game, including preserved bodies and torture scenes.
Game Progress and Production Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed playing a game that involves finding items and keycards to progress through levels, with Jose navigating through different areas and encountering unsettling sounds and visuals. Jose struggled to locate a keycard needed to advance, but eventually found it after some trial and error. They noted that the game's dark themes and unsettling elements make it challenging to play, and Ryan suggested that backtracking and repeated deaths could be edited out during post-production.
Puzzle Game Demon Avoidance Challenge
Jose and Ryan discussed playing a game involving puzzles and avoiding demons, with Jose sharing his screen and navigating through gameplay. Jose encountered challenges with the game's mechanics, including difficulty in escaping from demons like Chatterer, and experienced technical issues due to Zoom lag. Despite these obstacles, Jose expressed determination to continue playing and complete the game.
Video Game Mechanics Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed a video game they were playing, focusing on combat mechanics and character interactions. Jose demonstrated how to defeat enemies and navigate the game world, while Ryan asked questions about gameplay elements like hit points and enemy status. The conversation included audio from Jose's screen-sharing, with discussions about game mechanics and story elements, including references to Emily Dickinson's poems and Cenobites.
Hellraiser Game Demo Discussion
Jose and Ryan played a demo of the upcoming horror game Hellraiser, which features survival horror elements including puzzles and sneaking past enemies. They discussed the game's difficulty, particularly the combat and stealth mechanics, and noted the impressive graphics and maze-like environments. Ryan mentioned they would reschedule the Book Club of Blood discussion on Revelations for the following week due to David's illness, and Jose agreed to share his game recording with Ryan for editing into a podcast episode.
Jose and I love doing movie commentaries, but we have run out of films to cover! The series "Commentary on Clive's Contemporaries" allows us to look in the background and see what movies were happening when these Clive Barker movies and sequels were being made. We choose a range of movies, and you, the listeners, vote for which one we cover. This series was sponsored by our listeners in the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign, Clive Barker Podcast Presents Fundraiser 11 : The Patron Configuration and covers a range of years from 1973 (Salome) to 2024 (Night of the Zoopocalypse) and beyond.
From The Reef
So Far:
Commentary, Angel Heart
1987 - Directed by Alan Parker, Written by William Hjortsberg & Alan Parker
1h 53m
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community | TikTok
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Summary
Ryan and Jose recorded episode 538 of the Clive Barker Podcast, focusing on an audio commentary for the 1987 film Angelheart as part of their "Clive's Contemporaries" series. They began with news about the successful Library of the Dead Kickstarter campaign, which had reached $1.5 million and unlocked new stretch goals. The majority of the episode was spent discussing Angelheart, with Ryan and Jose analyzing the film's plot, characters, and themes, comparing it to Hellraiser and other films of the era. They discussed the film's Faustian bargain, the performance of Mickey Rourke and Robert De Niro, and the movie's grim and surreal atmosphere. They also touched on the film's production, reception, and its place among other 1987 releases. The episode concluded with a brief mention of upcoming podcast topics and a discussion about potential future interviews.
Library of the Dead Campaign
Ryan and Jose discussed the latest updates on the Library of the Dead Kickstarter campaign, noting that it had surpassed its $1.5 million stretch goal and introduced a new goal at $2 million. They reviewed the campaign's details, including late pledges and exclusive content, and agreed it was worth supporting. The conversation then shifted to an audio commentary on the film "Angelheart," analyzing its plot, characters, and connections to Clive Barker's book "Falling Angel." They discussed the film's themes, including amnesia, supernatural elements, and the relationship between the protagonist and the devil-like character, Louis Cipher.
Angel Heart Movie Analysis Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed the movie "Angel Heart," focusing on its plot, characters, and themes. They analyzed Johnny Favorite's role, the presence of voodoo elements, and the movie's setting in Louisiana during the Civil Rights era. The discussion included insights into the movie's portrayal of dissociation, hallucinations, and the devil's influence on Johnny Favorite's actions. They also compared it to other films with similar plot elements and debated the movie's interpretation, particularly regarding Johnny's actions and the role of the devil.
In Episode 537, Jose and Ryan are joined by Don Bertram David Blair, Joe Manco and Jesse for a round-table discussion of our thoughts about Clive Barker's new announced book releases and Kickstarter campaign, Library of the Dead.
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : Ed Martinez YouTube Channel
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
Podcast Announcement: The 1988 Clive's Comtemporary has a Winner
Topic: Library of the Dead
Show Notes
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community | TikTok
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Summary
This was episode 537 of the Clive Barker podcast, where the hosts discussed the recent announcement of Clive Barker's "Library of the Dead" Kickstarter campaign. The campaign had raised $967,774 in 12 days, with a $1 million stretch goal approaching. The collection includes three new books - "Fear Eternal," "Pyres of Bedlam," and "The Dark Descents" - featuring curated out-of-print stories and black and white illustrations. Participants discussed the campaign's structure, pricing tiers, and exclusive features, with concerns about crowdfunding reliability and shipping costs. The group also explored what fans would like to see in the new releases, including more short stories in the style of the Books of Blood and potential film adaptations. The discussion included details about special editions, autograph options, and the possibility of a mystery feature hidden within the books that would be revealed during a streaming event with Clive Barker.
Clive Barker Kickstarter Campaign Update
The group discussed the successful Kickstarter campaign for Clive Barker's Library of the Dead project, which has raised $967,774 in 12 days with 6 days remaining when the episode airs. The campaign includes a set of three special edition compilation books, and there is a mystery stretch goal when the project reaches $1 million. The podcast hosts also announced that They Live will be the next commentary discussion, chosen over The Blob as the runner-up.
Clive Barker Book Collection Updates
The group discussed updates to a Clive Barker book collection project, including expanded content and improved paper quality for the hardcover editions. They confirmed that the $500,000 stretch goal would include additional prologue and illustrations in all five books, though there was some confusion about whether these would be Clive Barker's illustrations. The discussion also covered potential stories to include in the curated collection, including both previously published works and new stories, with participants expressing hope that the collection would focus more on horror-themed content rather than erotic or comedic stories.
Clive Barker Crowdfunding Success Discussion
The group discussed Clive Barker's recent crowdfunding success, where he raised nearly a million dollars in less than a week for new book publications. They discussed various Barker-related works including "The Scarlet Gospels," "Infernal Parade," and "Tortured Souls," with Don suggesting that Phil and Sarah are likely curating complete stories rather than fragments for the new collection. The participants agreed that this success would likely attract Hollywood attention and potentially lead to bidding wars for film rights, given the previous complications with Barker's intellectual property rights.
Clive Barker Publications Discussion
The group discussed upcoming Clive Barker publications, including three books: Fear Eternal, Pyres of Bedlam, and The Dark Descents. They noted that the first two releases are already finished manuscripts being edited for printing, while the third is still in development. The participants expressed interest in seeing more artwork and poetry included in future publications, with some suggesting that shorter stories from the Books of Blood could be adapted into a Netflix series format. They also discussed the success of the Candyman film adaptation and how execution is key to successful adaptations of Barker's work.
Clive Barker's "Library of the Dead
The group discussed the naming and details of Clive Barker's new release called "Library of the Dead," speculating that the title connects thematically to the "Books of Blood" series and the character Simon McNeil. They explored the special features of higher-tier editions, including vegan leather covers and unique tactile elements, while discussing the practical challenges of storing and displaying these collectibles. The conversation also touched on the benefits of this release strategy for attracting Hollywood attention and publishers, as well as concerns about crowdfunding trust and the potential limited nature of the special editions.
Clive Barker Crowdfunding Discussion
The group discussed a crowdfunding campaign related to Clive Barker's work, with participants expressing some skepticism but noting that the authenticity could be verified through existing materials. Jesse, who joined from Patreon, shared that they were interested in seeing a return to horror in the vein of Barker's previous collections like Books of Blood or Tortured Souls. The discussion touched on potential formats for the upcoming "Library of the Dead" project, with comparisons to other horror story collections like R.L. Stine's Fear Street series.
Clive Barker Book Cover Design
The group discussed the cover art for Clive Barker's new book series, with Jose highlighting how the three book covers create a connected triptych design featuring a flow of souls. Don explained that the artistic theme was deliberately chosen to honor Barker's work and connect to historical art motifs, though he expressed some initial concerns about using a different artist instead of Barker's own artwork. The discussion also covered various funding tiers for the project, including a backer group video call with Clive and higher-tier options for one-on-one meetings, with Don revealing he had purchased the highest tier to secure autographed copies.
Clive Barker Book Project Planning
The group discussed details about a Clive Barker book project on Kickstarter, including confirmation that the books will be sewn with head and tail bands and deckled edges. They noted that the $149 tier includes an invitation to a streaming event with Clive Barker, though they questioned whether it would be suitable for creating a podcast episode. The discussion covered shipping timelines, with higher-tier books expected in March and lower tiers in May, and concerns about potential Canadian order issues due to new tariffs. The group also analyzed the pricing structure, comparing it to other luxury editions and noting that while the autograph tier requires $1,000, it includes additional benefits like a bookcase, and the $2,000 tier for 52 lettered editions sold out quickly.
Clive Barker Kickstarter Campaign Discussion
The group discussed a Clive Barker Kickstarter campaign that has raised over $900,000, with participants expressing excitement about the project and potential future releases. Don raised questions about a special hand-drawn illustration offered at the $2,000 tier, wondering if backers could specify the image content. The participants discussed the mystery reward mentioned in the campaign, which involves clues hidden in the books that will be revealed during an invitation-only streaming event with the author. The group also mentioned Phil and Sarah's work on editing and curating the project, and expressed hope that the success of this campaign would lead to more Clive Barker publications in the future.
Clive Barker Kickstarter Campaign Discussion
The group discussed their excitement about Clive Barker's new Kickstarter campaign for "Library of the Dead," noting that the first editions and exclusive features would only be available to backers during the campaign. They reviewed the FAQ which confirmed that while retail versions might be released later, they would not include the exclusive collectibles or features offered to Kickstarter backers. The team also discussed their upcoming content plans, including a delayed 1987 commentary on Angel Heart and a Book Club discussion of "Blood Revelations," while expressing gratitude to their Patreon supporters and sponsors.
In Episode 536, Jose and Ryan go over some Hellraiser and Barker release-related news. Then we are joined by Markus Williams and Don Bertram to compare and discuss Pinhead Potraits by Clive Barker over the years.
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : Ed Martinez YouTube Channel
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
From The Reef
Duiscussion : Unproduced Hellraiser V
Discussion: Pinhead Portraits (With Markus and Don)
Show Notes
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Overview
Ryan and Jose recorded episode 536 of the Clive Barker Podcast, focusing on Hellraiser news and related updates. They discussed the Hellraiser-themed Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, including the Pinhead actor, the Hellraiser food truck, and merchandise. They covered the upcoming Hellraiser Resurrections comic one-shots from Boom Studios and a new Fright Rags Hellraiser 2 t-shirt. They mentioned gameplay footage for the Hellraiser Revival video game and expressed some concerns about its mechanics. They reviewed Arrow's upcoming 4K/Blu-ray release of Underworld/Transmutations, comparing its features to the existing Kino Lorber edition. They noted that Clive Barker and Joyce Carol Oates were announced as recipients of the 2026 World Fantasy Life Achievement Award. They also discussed an unused script for Hellraiser 5 (The Hellseeker) by Michael Lent, found through archive research, and compared it to the eventual Hellseeker film. They briefly touched on listener polls for Clive's Contemporaries, Patreon supporters, and other projects like Turbine's Hellraiser releases.
Hellraiser Food Truck Planning
Ryan and Jose discussed the Hellraiser-themed food truck and haunted attraction at Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando Universal Studios. They examined photos and videos of the Hellraiser setup, including the box design and costume details, and discussed which elements from Hellraiser films 1, 2, and 3 might be featured in the attraction. The conversation was interrupted by technical difficulties and scheduling conflicts, so they agreed to resume the discussion later.
Universal Studios Horror Nights Planning
Jose and Ryan discussed Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights, focusing on the new Pinhead attraction. Jose shared that scare actors typically earn between $15 and $28 per hour and mentioned key creative team members involved in the haunted house, including John Murdy and Lojo Russo. They noted that the attraction would feature elements from Hellraiser 1, 2, and 3, opening on August 28 in Orlando and September 3 in Hollywood, and requested feedback from anyone attending the event.
Hellraiser Content Planning Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed various Hellraiser-related content, including different covers for Deep Gospel and upcoming one-shot comics featuring characters like the female Cenobite and Butterball. They reviewed a new Fright Rags t-shirt design for Hellraiser and Hellbound Hellraiser 2, and briefly discussed gameplay footage for the Hellraiser Revival game, which Ryan preferred not to watch to avoid spoilers. They also touched on Arrow's upcoming release of Underworld/Transmutations on September 6, 2026, and concluded that Ryan was satisfied with his current Ultra HD copy of the film.
4K Blu-ray Release Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed a new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Limited Edition release of a film featuring Clive Barker's work. The release includes two discs, with the first being 4K Ultra HD and the second being a 1080p version of "Transmutations" instead of "Underworld." Ryan noted that while the 4K disc is region-free, the second disc is region B, which may limit access for some viewers. The release is available for pre-order in the UK for £25 with a retail price of £29.99 and a release date of September 6, 2026.
2026 World Fantasy Awards Announcement
Ryan announced that Clive Barker and Joyce Carol Oates will receive the 2026 World Fantasy Awards for Lifetime Achievement, to be presented at a ceremony in Oakland, California from October 22-25. The discussion included recognition of Joyce Carol Oates' notable works and debate about the timing of the award, with Jose noting the benefit of receiving recognition while still alive. Jose also mentioned that Boom Studios plans to release five Hellraiser one-shot comics as a prelude to a new ongoing series by the end of 2027.
Hellraiser Content Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed the growing popularity of Hellraiser content among people with limited knowledge of the franchise, comparing it to Scream and expressing frustration with misinformed comparisons. They mentioned upcoming Hellraiser merchandise at Universal Studios, including acrylic standees, mugs, and glasses. Jose recommended exploring the original novella "The Hellbound Heart" and suggested stopping at Hellraiser 4 for movie viewing, while also recommending the 2022 remake.
Hellraiser Script Discussion
Ryan and Jose discussed a Hellraiser script that was intended to be Hellraiser 5 but was ultimately not picked up. The script, written by Michael Lent, follows a character with amnesia who discovers he was a criminal while being pursued by Cenobites. While the script contains some interesting elements like the character healing from severe burns and the Cenobites being 7 feet tall, Jose and Ryan both found the concept of a computer game called "**** World" to be problematic and unrealistic.
The Clive Barker Podcast team, including Ryan, Jose, Don, and guest Marcus, held a discussion focused on various artistic depictions of Pinhead, the iconic character from the Hellraiser series. They examined and compared multiple portraits of Pinhead created by Clive Barker, ranging from early pitch package sketches to later oil paintings and sketches. The conversation covered the evolution of Pinhead's design, different artistic techniques used by Barker, and the significance of the character in Barker's oeuvre. The group also shared personal anecdotes about visiting Barker's studio and handling original manuscripts and artwork. They touched on related topics such as the Hellraiser franchise's enduring popularity, recent merchandise, and potential future projects. The session was informal and celebratory, with participants expressing their appreciation for Barker's art and each other's insights.
Clive Barker Art Comparison Discussion
The group discussed comparing different versions of Pinhead art by Clive Barker as part of a podcast segment from their recent Kickstarter campaign. Don Bertram and Marcus Williams joined Ryan and Jose to examine various artwork, with Don sharing his personal experience promoting Barker's art at movie theaters using a one-sheet from the Illusion Suite. The conversation included discussion about an eBay listing for the Clive Barker Illusion Suite portfolio, which Don noted was not selling well due to its limited market awareness and the fact that it's only signed on the header page.
Pinhead Character Design Evolution
The group discussed early artwork and designs for Pinhead from Hellraiser, including a sumi ink drawing from 1986 that was part of a pitch package for New World executives. They examined how the character design evolved from the original novella, noting differences in details like jeweled pins versus nails and the androgynous voice description. The discussion highlighted how Clive Barker's initial concepts were adapted for the film, with Ryan and Don providing insights about the differences between the written description and the final cinematic portrayal.
Pinhead Artwork Discussion Review
The group discussed various drawings and artwork related to Pinhead and Clive Barker's work. They examined a pencil drawing from 2005 for Nika toys that was later used for a Cenobite diorama and silicone mask. The discussion included details about a hook feature in the artwork that connects to Pinhead's scalp, which Markus confirmed was present in both the drawing and the movie. The participants also reviewed a colorful oil painting done live at Tower Records in 2005, with Don expressing particular appreciation for the red color elements and the desolate landscape background. The conversation concluded with reflections on Clive Barker's reluctance to do live painting demonstrations, as he mentioned to Don that he tends to "show off" rather than focus on the work.
Clive Barker Pinhead Art Discussion
The group discussed various Clive Barker artwork, focusing on sketches and drawings of Pinhead. Marcus shared several pieces he had found, including black and white sketches with shamanistic elements and silver Sharpie details representing mercury flowing through the character's face. The discussion covered different artistic styles and techniques, with particular attention to Barker's use of negative space in the "V for Vice Versa" piece from his A through Z of Horror book. The conversation also touched on how Barker's Pinhead design has become his most iconic creation, comparing it to Frankenstein in literature.
Clive Barker's Pinhead Painting Discussion
The group discussed Clive Barker's art, particularly focusing on a large impasto oil painting of Pinhead that Don had seen at a gallery. They examined details of the painting including its thick texture, color choices, and the presence of faces and skulls in the design. The conversation also touched on Chris Valesco, who purchased the painting in 2013 and has worked on soundtracks for games like Overwatch and Mass Effect, though not the new Hellraiser game. The discussion concluded with plans to potentially interview Chris Valesco in the future and to include links to his art collection videos in the show notes.
In Episode 535, Ryan and Jose are joined by David Blair for another Book Club of Blood episode. This time, we cover Volume 4's "The Inhuman Condition".
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : Ed Martinez YouTube Channel
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
Book Club of Blood Discussion:
Show Notes
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Paperback | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Recap
AI Recap
The Clive Barker Podcast episode 535 was a Book Club of Blood discussion focused on "The Inhuman Condition" from Books of Blood Volume 4. Ryan, Jose, and David analyzed the story's themes, characters, and connections to other Barker works, especially its similarities to Hellraiser. They discussed the narrative of a group of young thugs who steal a magical knotted cord from a transient, leading to the release of three creatures representing evolutionary stages. The trio explored the story's themes of evolution, hidden knowledge, and the transformative power of magic. They also touched on potential adaptations, the evolution of special effects, and the podcast's Patreon supporters. The episode concluded with a preview of upcoming content, including a commentary on Angel Heart and a future discussion on Pinhead sketches by Clive Barker.
Book Discussion on Development Stages
Jose and Ryan discussed a book they were reading, with Jose mentioning insights about human fetal development stages. Ryan revealed he had studied medieval philosophy rather than evolutionary topics in school, which explained his lack of knowledge about the developmental stages Jose referenced. The conversation ended abruptly as Jose mentioned something from a previous episode.
Religious Philosophy and Media Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed the Manichaeans, a religious philosophy that viewed the devil as an equal and opposite force to God. They also talked about beer from a local brewery and the challenges of being on camera for non-native English speakers. The conversation then shifted to the topic of dubbing versus subtitles in foreign films, particularly in Japanese movies, and the role of Laserdiscs in providing region-free and undubbed content.
Book Club of Blood Episode
The group discussed various topics including vintage movie formats, gaming collectibles, and comic book adaptations before transitioning into a Book Club of Blood episode. Jose shared his recent viewing of "The Return" and "Jason and the Argonauts," while Ryan and wnbla discussed special effects in classic films. The conversation ended with Ryan confirming this was another Book Club of Blood episode focused on a specific volume.
Clive Barker's "Inhuman Condition" Analysis
The group discussed Clive Barker's "Inhuman Condition" from Volume 4 of the Books of Blood, comparing it to the more famous Hellraiser story. They analyzed the characters and plot, particularly focusing on how the knots found their owner Carney and the creatures released from them. The discussion covered themes of hidden power in seemingly ordinary people and parallel worlds accessible through objects like the knots. The conversation also touched on how Barker often writes about magicians who appear ordinary but possess hidden abilities.
Evolution Theme Plot Review
Jose discussed the evolution theme in the story, involving reptilian, simian, and human-like creatures. The group reviewed plot details about Carney finding a knot in Red's hand and Brendan's call to the wrecking yard. They described the final confrontation scene where Pope captures Brendan using a knot, and Carney must work to free him while hiding from Pope's attack.
Pope Carney Story Adaptation Discussion
The group discussed a story involving Pope, Carney, and a magical knot that contains a creature representing Pope's brother. They explored how the story could be adapted into a movie or TV show, noting it would need additional content beyond the original narrative. The discussion revealed key plot points including how Pope's brother was transformed through evolutionary stages captured in knots, and how Carney discovers Pope's spell book at the end. The conversation also touched on how Pope represents the Church's role in hiding knowledge about evolution.
Anatomical Challenges and Story Development
The group discussed the historical challenges anatomists faced working in secret due to religious opposition, with Jose explaining how anatomical knowledge was considered sinful. Ryan shared a personal experience of feeling uncomfortable during a college health class when learning about the circulatory system, which led to a broader discussion about the human body being "a bag of bones" and "a flesh machine." The conversation then shifted to discussing potential storylines for a character named Carney, including possibilities of him becoming a powerful magician or CEO, and ended with a suggestion about creating an animated series based on Clive Barker's Books of Blood anthology.
In Episode 534, Jose and Ryan are joined by David Blair go over some Hellraiser related news, in particular we talk about the English translation of the old Hellraiser Manga.
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
Chat: New Barker-Related Aquisitions
From The Reef
Show Notes
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout Out
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
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AI Summary
This was episode 534 of the Clive Barker podcast, where Ryan, Jose, and David discussed extensive Hellraiser-related news and updates. The team covered several major developments including Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights 2026 featuring a Hellraiser-themed attraction with Doug Bradley as Pinhead, Ashley Lawrence's upcoming appearance at Oklahoma City HorrorCon, and Simon Bamford's casting call for the Black Eyed Children film series. They reviewed a new interview with Peter Atkins by the Hellraiser Discord community and discussed Barbie Wilde's interview with the London Horror Movie Club. Jose shared his discovery of an English translation of the rare Hellraiser manga adaptation by Naruho Amino, which is now available for free online. The group also discussed upcoming Hellraiser game releases, convention appearances by various actors, and plans for their next book club discussion of "The Inhuman Condition" and 1988 Clive Barker works.
Hellraiser Revival Attractions Discussion
The group discussed the Hellraiser Revival game and upcoming Hellraiser-themed attractions. They learned about a new Hellraiser ride at Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights, which will feature Doug Bradley as Pinhead. The discussion also covered an upcoming Oklahoma City HorrorCon where Ashley Lawrence and potentially other Cenobite actors are expected to appear. Additionally, they mentioned Simon Bamford's involvement in the third installment of The Black Eyed Children series, though details about where to watch the first two films were not fully confirmed.
Hellraiser Content and Updates
The group discussed several Hellraiser-related topics including a new movie "The Black Eyed Children" available on Tubi, a Hellraiser Discord YouTube video featuring Peter Atkins addressing questions about the series, and an interview with Barbie Wilde by the London Horror Movie Club. They also covered Paul T. Taylor's interview about the Hellraiser Judgment audition process and mentioned an upcoming Hellraiser screening with Q&A in Wales featuring Paul T. Taylor. The discussion concluded with information about a Boom Studios re-release of the first issue of the Harrowers comic and the discovery of an English translation of a Japanese Hellraiser manga adaptation from 1988.
Hellraiser Manga Adaptation Discussion
Jose and Ryan discussed a recently published manga adaptation of Hellraiser by the Caterpillar Group, noting that while it simplified the story, it captured key elements from both the movie and novella. They identified some character differences and translation issues, particularly regarding family relationships and honorifics in Japanese. The discussion concluded with Jose expressing interest in finding more manga adaptations by Naruho Amino, including "In the Hills of the Cities" and "Gathering of Cenobites," while Ryan mentioned their website had experienced technical issues with Bluehost.
Book Club Content Planning
The group discussed upcoming book club content, including plans for "The Inhuman Condition" and commentary on "Angel Heart." They announced a vote for the 1988 commentary topic from a list including "Hellbound," "Hellraiser 2," "Child's Play," "Night of the Demons," and other films, with voting to remain open for a month. The discussion included conversations about various movies including "Monkey Shines," directed by George Romero and based on a Stephen King story, and the poorly received 1994 "Fantastic Four" film that was made to retain movie rights.
Movie Discussion and Updates
The group discussed various movies, including the Fantastic Four film series and horror movies like Angel Heart and Hellraiser. They talked about voting for favorite movies in an upcoming podcast episode and mentioned updates to their website. David shared information about collecting Dracula comics, and the team discussed updating their "About Us" page to reflect current information and remove outdated details.
Jose and I love doing movie commentaries, but we have run out of films to cover! The series "Commentary on Clive's Contemporaries" allows us to look in the background and see what movies were happening when these Clive Barker movies and sequels were being made. We choose a range of movies, and you, the listeners, vote for which one we cover. This series was sponsored by our listeners in the 2025 Kickstarter Campaign, Clive Barker Podcast Presents Fundraiser 11 : The Patron Configuration and covers a range of years from 1973 (Salome) to 2024 (Night of the Zoopocalypse) and beyond.
So Far:
Commentary:
Show Notes
Feedback Spotlight
Coming Next
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
In Episode 532, Ryan and Jose are joined by David Blair for another Book Club of Blood episode. This time, we cover Volume 4's "The Body Politic". Ples we get into some Hellraiser news and shoutouts to our friends.
This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : Ed Martinez YouTube Channel
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
From the Reef
Book Club of Blood Discussion:
Show Notes
Feedback / Questions
Coming Next
Shoutouts
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Recap
This was episode 532 of the Clive Barker Podcast, where the hosts returned after a month-long break to discuss news and analyze "The Body Politic" story from Volume 4. They covered recent Hellraiser developments including new one-shot comics from Boom Studios focusing on different Cenobites, the upcoming Hellraiser game releasing October 8th, and new Trick or Treat Studios action figures. The main discussion centered on "The Body Politic," a story about Charlie George whose hands rebel against his body, exploring themes of revolution, control, and the consequences of breaking away from societal structures. The hosts analyzed the story's metaphors, its film adaptation in "Quicksilver Highway," and received feedback from listeners about their experiences with the story. They also discussed upcoming commentary tracks for Prince of Darkness and Angel Heart.
Summary
Hellraiser Comic Series Announcements
The podcast hosts discussed recent Hellraiser news, including Boom Studios' announcement of five new Hellraiser one-shot comics titled "Hellraiser Resurrections" focusing on different Cenobites. They reviewed details about each comic's plot and characters, noting that these appear to be standalone stories that could potentially lead to a new series. The discussion also covered a successful Kickstarter campaign called "Leviathan's Vault" that raised nearly $900,000 to reissue Hellraiser comics, including volumes from 2011 and various limited series. The conversation concluded with a brief mention of the Hellraiser revival game, though details about this were not provided in the transcript segment.
Hellraiser Game and Figures Release
The group discussed the upcoming release of a Hellraiser game on October 8th, with José sharing details from gameplay demos including melee attacks, gunplay, puzzles, and a crafting system. They also discussed new Trick or Treat Studios Hellraiser figures that are available for pre-order, with an estimated shipping date of December 9, 2026, and a special bundle price of $159.96. The figures will be 8 inches tall with some articulation features, and were sculpted by Alexander Ray.
Clive Barker's "The Body Politic
The group discussed Clive Barker's story "The Body Politic," focusing on its extended metaphor about body parts rebelling against the control of the brain. They analyzed how the story explores themes of revolution, tyranny, and the consequences of following a wrong leader, particularly through the character of Charlie George whose hands conspire against him. The discussion included details about the film adaptation in "Quicksilver Highway" and compared it to the original story, noting differences in the ending where Charlie jumps from a roof followed by the hands, leading to their collective doom.
Clive Barker's "The Collection" Analysis
The group discussed Clive Barker's short story "The Collection" and its film adaptation, focusing on themes of revolution and the body's autonomy. They analyzed how the story explores the concept of body parts rebelling against their owners, with José noting the film's cameos including Clive Barker and John Landis. The discussion concluded with speculation about which body part would be most terrifying if it rebelled, with eyes and butts being particular points of concern.
Clive Barker Story Discussion
The group discussed Clive Barker's short story "The Body Politic," sharing personal reactions and experiences, including one listener's connection to the story through a personal injury. They reviewed comments from Reddit and their listeners' group, noting the story's themes of revolution and control. The team announced their next content will be audio commentaries for the 1987 films "Prince of Darkness" and "Angel Heart," chosen after a tie vote between those films and "Hellraiser." They also mentioned upcoming content including "The Inhuman Condition" in their Book Club of Blood series.
In Episode 531, Jose and Ryan go over some Hellraiser and Nightbreed convention and video game news, and all the places you can find tyour favorite Hellraiser people! This is the Clive Barker Podcast, where long-time fans Ryan and Jose interview guests, bring you the news, and take deep dives into Barker-related stuff. This episode will be available in Podcast Audio and Youtube Video.
Sponsor : Don Bertram's Celebrate Imagination | Pinterest | ETSY Store
Sponsor : The Now Playing Podcast
News from the Reef
Coming Next
Patreon Members Shout-Out (Become a Patron)
And this podcast, having no beginning will have no end.
web www.clivebarkercast.com
Apple Podcasts, Android, Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Libsyn, Tunein, iHeart Radio, Pocket Casts, Radio.com, and YouTube and Facebook: | BarkerCast Listeners Group | Occupy Midian
BlueSky | Reddit | Discord Community
Support the show
Buy Our Book: The BarkerCast Interviews Occupy Midian Hardcover | Kindle | Apple
Become a Patreon Patron | Buy a T-Shirt
Music is by Ray Norrish
All Links and show notes in their Entirety can be found at https://www.clivebarkercast.com
AI Summary
Ryan and José recorded episode 531 of their Clive Barker podcast, discussing recent news including Arrow Video's new 4K restoration of Nightbreed with both theatrical and director's cuts, featuring new extras and a companion book. They reviewed the Hellraiser Revival game's Cenobite Collector's Edition, comparing it to the previous Leviathan edition and noting the lack of a signed Clive Barker print as a key difference. The hosts watched a new developer diary for the game, showcasing more detailed Cenobite animations and gameplay footage with Doug Bradley's voice work. They also discussed upcoming Hellraiser conventions including Mad Monster Party in Arizona and Days of the Dead events in Chicago and Atlanta, featuring several Cenobite actors. The podcast concluded with plans for their next book club discussion of "The Body Politic" from Books of Blood Volume 4 and a vote on which 1987 film to compare to Hellraiser.
Hellraiser Developer Diary Discussion
Ryan and José discussed technical issues with audio and video settings before planning to watch a developer diary video about Cenobytes and Pinhead from the Hellraiser series. José shared a link to a YouTube video and they briefly discussed its content, though Ryan only watched a 30-second preview due to the initial link issue. The conversation ended with Ryan asking about "Team French" but the question remained unclear due to audio issues.
Nightbreed 4K Restoration Discussion
José and Ryan discussed a new 4K restoration of the film Nightbreed, including both theatrical and director's cuts, with enhanced features like Dolby Vision HDR, new artwork, and a companion book. They reflected on previous collector's editions and debated whether physical media releases, including 4K, would continue to be relevant given the rise of digital formats. Both agreed that while digital media is growing, physical media will likely persist in some form, particularly for collectors and professionals in the film industry.
Physical Media's Enduring Relevance
José and Ryan discussed the ongoing relevance of physical media in the age of streaming services. They noted that while streaming has become popular, limitations in internet speeds and the temporary nature of licensed content on platforms like Netflix mean physical media will likely continue to have a place. They highlighted how streaming platforms have shifted focus toward producing their own content rather than licensing existing material, leading viewers to seek out older content on alternative platforms like YouTube. The conversation concluded with appreciation for companies like Arrow, Shout Factory, and Turbine Media that continue to produce physical media releases.
Nightbreed 4K Release Discussion
Ryan and José discussed a new Arrow Video 4K release of Nightbreed, comparing the UK and potential US versions. They noted that the UK release includes exclusive extras like behind-the-scenes footage and UK-specific content, though they were uncertain if these features would be included in the US version. The UK release is priced at 30 pounds, which Ryan and José considered a good deal, though they agreed to wait for the US release to potentially save money and see if it includes similar extras.
Hellraiser Game Edition Comparisons
José and Ryan discussed the differences between various editions of the Hellraiser Revival game, including the new Cenobite Collector's Edition priced at $199. They compared features between the Leviathan Edition and Cenobite Edition, noting that the Leviathan includes a hand-signed art print while the Cenobite edition features a Cenobite statue and other exclusive items. The discussion highlighted concerns about the long pre-order period, which has been ongoing for about a year since the last pre-order update in June 2025, and they noted that the new dev diary "Cenobytes" provides additional footage of Cenobites in the game.
Hellraiser Revival Collector's Edition Discussion
José and Ryan discussed a Hellraiser Revival Collector's Edition, which includes a Cenobite statue, puzzle box, enamel pins, and a digital soundtrack. They watched a dev diary video showcasing the game's features, including platforming elements and various Cenobite characters. The video highlighted the game's focus on grotesque scenes and jump scares, with Doug Bradley's involvement adding credibility to the project. José and Ryan noted the game's potential for a gradual descent into horror, similar to Big Trouble in Little China, and expressed hope for an upcoming release date announcement.
Temple of the Killer Tiger Monkeys
Ryan and José discussed the audio drama "Temple of the Killer Tiger Monkeys," which features original Cenobite actors including Doug Bradley, Simon Bamford, and Nicholas Vince. They agreed to create a future podcast episode about the series, potentially including an interview with Simon Banford. The conversation also covered Ghanaian movie posters, specifically a Hellraiser poster by artist Heavy J, which is now available for purchase through Deadly Prey Gallery. Finally, they mentioned upcoming Hellraiser and Nightbreed conventions featuring the Cenobite actors.
Horror Conventions and Content Planning
José and Ryan discussed upcoming horror conventions, including Mad Monster Party Arizona in July 2026 and Days of the Dead events in Chicago and Atlanta. They expressed interest in meeting Peter Atkins at the Chicago event in November 2026, with both planning to discuss time off work to attend. José also mentioned upcoming content plans, including a book club discussion of "The Body Politic" from Books of Blood Volume 4 and a vote on a 1987 movie to compete against Hellraiser.
Horror Movies Discussion
Ryan and José discussed various horror movies, including The Lost Boys, Prince of Darkness, The Gate, Bad Taste, Angel Heart, Beaks, and Iron Warrior. They shared their opinions on these films, with José expressing a preference for Bad Taste due to its chaotic nature. Ryan mentioned his interest in watching Prince of Darkness, The Gate, or Angel Heart again. They also briefly discussed actor Stephen Dorff's role in The Gate and his appearance in Blade. The conversation concluded with José mentioning Nicholas Vince's recent campaign for the Green Party in the UK elections.
UK Elections and Media Discussion
José and Ryan discussed recent local elections in the UK, with Ryan encouraging José to vote for Nicholas Vince in future elections. They then talked about editing a podcast episode, noting that while some parts like screen sharing would be easy to edit out, removing fillers like "ums" would be more time-consuming. The conversation concluded with a discussion about a Hellraiser script booklet, comparing different versions and discussing whether certain autographs were real or printed.
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