The Monstrous Image – Horror in Graphic Novels (Something is Killing the Children and Universal’s Frankenstein)

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff explore the portrayal of monsters in the realm of comics and graphic novels. They dive into the complex narratives, dissecting the horror genre as seen in James Tynion IV's 'Something is Killing the Children' and Michael Walsh's 'Universal Monsters: Frankenstein'.

In this episode we:

·        Revisit the gothic elements of Robert Eggers' 2024 film Nosferatu, pointing out the underlying themes of predation and power

·        Identify major themes of childhood, power, and authority in “Something is Killing the Children” and “Frankenstein”

·        Discuss how these stories reflect societal fears, the current political landscape, and the power dynamics in contemporary America

·        Share the joy they find in these graphic narratives, highlighting the importance of art and imagination in provoking thought and emotional engagement

00:00 Introduction to Monsters in Comics

01:01 Exploring 'Something is Killing the Children'

01:28 Universal Monsters: Frankenstein's Perspective

02:17 Welcome to Horror Joy

02:48 Nosferatu and the Gothic Elements

08:47 Frankenstein: The Gothic and Modern Anxieties

20:42 Frankenstein's Creation and Ecological Allegories

26:40 Upcoming Release: The EcoWeird

26:44 Diving into 'Something is Killing the Children'

27:21 Why This Comic Stands Out

29:04 Teaching the Comic: Student Reactions

31:31 Plot and Themes of 'Something is Killing the Children'

37:33 Comparisons and Cultural Reflections

39:19 The Real Horror: Societal Issues

47:42 Finding Joy in Graphic Novels

52:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts