Horror Joy

Latest Episodes:

Found Footage 4 - Man Finds Tape with directors Peter Hall and Paul Gandersman Dec 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Jeff and Brian sit down with Peter Hall and Paul Gandersman, directors of the upcoming found footage horror film 'Man Finds Tape,' releasing on December 5th.

The conversation covers the joy to be found in horror, the directors' backgrounds, the creative processes behind their projects, and the unique blend of found footage and cosmic horror in their latest film.

They also delve into themes of faith and contemporary political climates impacting their work. The episode offers insightful reflections on how horror can create a sense of community and personal joy.

***After finding mysterious video clips, siblings investigate the strange recordings and uncover a disturbing secret spreading through their Texas town.***

Gwendolyn Kiste on Meet Your Maker Nov 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian and Jeff welcome acclaimed author Gwendolyn Kiste, a multiple Bram Stoker Award winner, to discuss her novel 'The Haunting of Velkwood.'

They explore the synergistic relationship between horror and joy, emphasizing the cathartic and self-discovery elements inherent in the genre.

Kiste shares her journey from a young storyteller to an author who uses horror to navigate and express personal and societal traumas.

The conversation also delves into the unique stasis experienced by characters in 'Velkwood' and the liberating exploration of queer identity within horror narratives. The episode concludes with a discussion on cicadas, puzzles, board games, and Kiste's upcoming projects.

Found Footage 3 - The Bay (2012) Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

The Depths of Horror: Exploring Barry Levinson's The Bay

In this episode, Brian and Jeff delve into Barry Levinson's 2012 found footage horror film, 'The Bay.'

Set during a disastrous 4th of July celebration in Claridge, Maryland, the film intertwines environmental horror with a mockumentary format.

The story follows reporter Donna Thompson as she navigates through a town descending into chaos due to a waterborne outbreak.

Drawing parallels to 'Jaws,' the hosts examine how 'The Bay' critiques human neglect and environmental irresponsibility while utilizing modern technology to heighten its impact.

They also explore themes of surveillance, the narrative coherence of found footage, and the unsettling reality it brings to life.

Ultimately, the episode underscores how horror can reveal uncomfortable truths about our world, sparking a rich discussion on the intersections of joy, terror, and societal reflection.

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Mimesis of Media: Found Footage Cinema and the Horror of the Real by Niel McRobert

Found Footage Horror Films - A Cognitive Approach by Pete Turner

Kayli Scholz on Meet Your Maker Nov 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Meet Your Maker, we are joined by author Kayli Scholz, known for her horror novels St. Grit, Black Rain Season, and her most recent novel, Yeehaw Junction.

Kayli discusses the intersection of joy and horror in her work, sharing personal anecdotes about how horror has influenced her life, from childhood experiences to her deep immersion in genre writing.

She delves into the societal and psychological aspects that inspire her storytelling, including how place and culture shape horror.

The episode also features insights into her writing process, the impact of media on her characters, and her thoughts on the current state and misperceptions of the horror genre.

KayliScholz.com

Found Footage 2 - REC (2007) Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff continue their deep dive into found footage horror by investigating the 2007 Spanish film [REC], directed by Jaume Balagueró and Paco Plaza.

The conversation explores the film's claustrophobic terror, its political nature, and its effectiveness as a groundbreaking entry in the found footage genre.

We discuss:

The Appeal of Found Footage
The Horror of quarantine
Reading [REC] forward into 2025, including social and political commentary
The joy of an effective found footage film, the use of the camera, and terrifying staircases

References:

The Pain in Spain: an analysis of horror auteur Jaume Balaguero’s films by Brian Michael Goss

Don’t Miss a Bloody Thing: [REC] and the Spanish Adaptation of Found Footage Horror by Shelagh M. Rowan-Legg

Reel Evil: A Critical Reassessment of Found Footage Horror by Xavier Aldana Reyes

Clay McLeod Chapman on Meet Your Maker Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Meet Your Maker, a series by Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff welcome author Clay McLeod Chapman to discuss his work, including his recent novel, Wake Up and Open Your Eyes, and the fascinating relationship between joy and horror.

Chapman shares his belief that joy and horror work together, emphasizing the catharsis found in horror, which allows for the release of pent up fears and the ability to tap into or let go of strong emotions.

Chapman discusses his journey to becoming a horror creator, noting that while he's been writing professionally for nearly 25 years, people only began to notice his work around seven years ago.

Exploring Wake Up and Open Your Eyes: The conversation delves into his polarizing novel, which has been characterized as "MAGA Horror" and "online Horror."

Clay McLeod Chapman

Coffin Moon by Keith Rosson

Horror for Weenies by Emily Hughes

Chumbawumba

Found Footage 1 - Frogman with Director Anthony Cousins Oct 20, 2025

Show notes

This episode of Horror Joy features a deep dive into the genre of found footage horror, particularly focusing on the 2023 film 'Frogman.'

Hosts Brian and Jeff discuss with the film's co-writer and director, Anthony Cousins, the allure and believability of found footage horror, influences from other horror media, and the complexities of creating effective practical effects.

They explore the thematic elements of obsession, belief, and the uncanny, while also touching on Cousins' other works and the anticipated sequel to 'Frogman,' 'Frogman Returns'

Frogman on Tubi

Anthony Cousins

Every time We Meet For Ice Cream Your Whole F*cking Face Explodes

Frogman 2

Digital Horror: Haunted Technologies, Network Panic and the Found Footage Phenomenon

Lauren Bolger and Alan Good on Meet Your Maker Oct 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Horror Joy, the hosts bring on two guests for the first time: Alan Good, founder and editor of Malarkey Books, and Lauren Bolger, a horror author published by Malarkey Books.

The discussion dives into the intersection of horror and joy, and both guests share their unique perspectives. Alan talks about the community support that keeps Malarkey Books afloat and the joy of seeing people engage with their work.

Lauren discusses her journey as a writer, drawing inspiration from childhood experiences and various mythologies.

They also delve into Lauren's upcoming book, 'The Barre Incidents,' which blends horror, sci-fi, and fantasy.

Additionally, they touch on the value of small presses and the role of mythology in storytelling.

The show highlights the upcoming releases from Malarkey Books and emphasizes the importance of maintaining creative hobbies into adulthood.

LaurenBolger.com

The Barre Incidents by Lauren Bolger

Malarkey Books

Hellarkey

Weapons Oct 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Jeff and Brian discuss Zach Cregger's 2025 film 'Weapons.'

The film’s controversial portrayal of children as both instruments and objects of horror breaks traditional tropes by delving into issues like school shootings, societal decay, and the overarching themes of violence and isolation.

Through its intricate narrative and complex characters like Aunt Gladys, who embodies both the literal and metaphorical horrors of small-town life, the hosts explore the multifaceted weaponization and manipulation of youth.

They also touch on broader societal critiques, including capitalism and surveillance.

The episode culminates in an analysis of the film’s surprising and symbolic ending, highlighting its blend of horror and dark humor.

'Weapons' exposes the dark underbelly of American suburbia

Of Course ‘Weapons’ Is About Something

The Gruen Transfer

Nick Medina on Meet Your Maker Sep 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Horror Joy, Brian and Jeff are joined by Nick Medina, author of 'Sisters of the Lost Nation,' 'Indian Burial Ground,' and the recently released novel, 'The Whistler.'

Nick discusses his shared perception of finding joy in horror, reflecting on the creativity and talent within the genre.

We explore his writing journey, the long road to getting published, and the significant influence of horror on his life.

Additionally, Nick delves into the themes, inspirations, and background research for his latest works, emphasizing the importance of addressing social issues through horror literature.

We also touch on his personal experiences and methods, especially his use of music to create atmosphere in his writing, and his intent to shed light on undervalued perspectives. The episode ends with recommended horror books and films that brought Nick joy.

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