Dark Night of the Podcast

Episode 156 – Revenge (2017)

Troy and Roger hop on their ATVs to take on the wild ride that is the 2017 French thriller Revenge, directed by recent Oscar nominee Coralie Fargeat. Join the guys as they dive into what makes this movie stand out in the rape-revenge genre, from its badass female lead who flips the script on her attackers to the way it tackles misogyny and the male gaze head-on. The guys chat about the film’s bold visual style—think bright, in-your-face colors and some seriously intense symbolism—and how it keeps you on the edge of your seat with its non-stop action. They also get into the crazy transformation of the main character, who goes from victim to full-on hunter, completely turning the usual revenge story upside down. Along the way, the guys don’t shy away from talking about the brutal violence and the messy, raw emotions that come with it

Episode 155 – C.H.U.D. (1984)

Troy and Roger dive into the cult classic C.H.U.D., a quirky 1984 horror flick set in the gritty underbelly of 1980s New York City. They examine the film’s strange mix of mutant monsters, emotionally distant characters, and an investigation that never quite lives up to its spooky potential. Join the guys as they chat about the slow pacing, underdeveloped characters, and a villainous plot that’s more puzzling than menacing. They also highlight the film’s subtle social commentary on neglect and radiation exposure. With a mix of nostalgia and some head-scratching moments, they wonder if C.H.U.D. could use a fresh reboot—one that leans more into the monster madness and less into the emotional void.

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Episode 154 – Luther the Geek (1989) with Bret Laurie

Get ready for plenty of clucking and squawking as Troy and guest co-host Bret Laurie dive into the bizarre and bloody world of the somewhat obscure title Luther the Geek. They break down the movie’s twisted plot, exploring everything from its unsettling antics of the antagonist to the surprisingly brutal violence. The guys discuss the film’s reluctant heroine, Hillary, as a unique final girl and the most inept parole board of all time, tons of questionable character choices, all while never failing to highlight Luther’s unsettling tendency to cluck like a damn chicken as he terrorizes his victims. If you're into strange horror with a side of dark humor, this episode makes a solid case for why Luther the Geek is a hidden gem!

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Episode 153 – Terror Train (1980)

Happy 2025! All aboard, as Troy and Roger are back with the first episode of the new year! And is there a better film for the guys to dive into than the classic slasher Terror Train. Join the guys as they explore the film’s eerie train setting, Jamie Lee Curtis’ standout performance, and the magic show that seems to drag on forever, courtesy of David Copperfield. They also have a laugh at some of the strange character names and quirky plot twists. The conversation touches on the film’s claustrophobic atmosphere, its narrative strengths, and some of the more awkward character interactions. Join them for an in-depth look at Terror Train and its unique role in the horror genre.

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Episode 152 – Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 (1987)

As we take a tiny break for the holiday, we're giving you a gift from our extensive Patreon vault, as this episode was actually recorded back in 2021! If you're interested in monthly exclusive bonus content, please check out our newly launched Patreon at: https://www.patreon.com/darknightofthepodcas

It’s Garbage Day as we discuss the much maligned sequel to the iconic 1984 Killer Santa slasher Silent Night, Deadly Night.    Join us as we discuss excessive flashback sequences and ponder what on Earth happened to Mother Superior's face!

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Episode 151 – 30 Days of Night (2007)

Troy and Roger sink their teeth into the chilling world of 30 Days of Night. The guys discuss_ _the eerie Alaskan setting, the ruthless take on vampires, and the tension of isolation in a small town. They explore the film’s atmospheric visuals, the brutal town massacre scene, and the unique spin on vampire lore that sets it apart from the genre. Along the way, they share personal anecdotes about cold climates and the psychological toll of endless darkness, tying it all back to the film’s themes of survival and sacrifice. From missed opportunities in character arcs to the powerful emotional conclusion, Troy and Roger break down the highs and lows of this gripping horror film.

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Episode 150 – Sorority Row (2009)

In this special 150th episode, Troy and Roger take a moment to reflect on their journey while diving into the 2009 remake Sorority Row. Get comfy because their conversation goes deep into what makes this film so loved among the gays (spoiler: it's Jessica). Despite recognizing the flaws that exist in the film, they have a blast with it and it's certainly a title worthy of their 150th milestone!

Find out more at http://www.darknightofthepodcast.com

Episode 149 – Maximum Overdrive (1986)

Stephen King's Maximum Overdrive is pure chaos: killer trucks, bad decisions, and ACDC blasting over it all. Tune in as Troy and Roger dissect the film's absurdity, from soda can massacres to a steamroller scene that no one saw coming. They lament the lack of character development, the baffling romantic interludes, and the diner patrons casually ignoring electrocutions. With a mix of dark humor and critical analysis, they tackle the film’s cult status, questionable pacing, and why it’s both terrible and weirdly entertaining. Spoiler: the Green Goblin truck steals the show.

Find out more at http://www.darknightofthepodcast.com

Episode 148 – The Relic (1997)

Troy and Roger dive deep into the dark and suspenseful world of 1997's The Relic. Join the guys as they unravel the mysteries lurking in the iconic Chicago Field Museum, spotlight the jaw-dropping creature design, and explore the intense clash between science and superstition. From the chaos of a high-society gala turned deadly to the gripping character dynamics, Troy and Roger break down the film’s most unforgettable moments-inlcuding some unfortunate CGI-, its chilling and intense atmosphere, and what makes The Relic a standout in the monster movie genre.

Episode 147 – Beauty Queen Butcher (1991)

Grab your tiara and get cozy with Troy and Roger as they dive into 1991’s super obscure flick Beauty Queen Butcher, a campy mess that somehow manages to be endearing and tackle serious issues like body image and beauty standards. The guys discuss the film’s many flaws, from its agonizingly slow beauty pageant scene to its awkward character arcs — especially protagonist Phyllis’s transformation from outcast to vengeful killer. They also touch on the film’s dark humor, its surprisingly low body count, and the strange lack of violence. But let’s be real: this episode is all about Betty Prunish, a character that needs more recognition for being the icon that she is!  Beauty Queen Butcher may be offensive, absurd, and a little nostalgic, but one thing’s for sure — it certainly leaves an impression!

Avid horror fans and filmmakers (and noted homosexuals) Troy Escamilla and Roger "The Scream Queer" Conners have many opinions on film. Tune in weekly to hear these two discuss and dissect some of the horror genre's most iconic, overlooked, and often underrated films.