Halloween is almost here so obviously our Season of the Witchtober had to end on theme. No witchy flick fits the holiday as perfectly as Hocus Pocus (1993) and no trio of diabolical witches is as iconic as the Sanderson sisters. After all, when you’ve got the combined powers of Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker you’re practically unstoppable (critics be double damned). This cult classic is the definition of spooky camp complete with a mid-act musical number and weird virgin plot lines that only the ‘90s could pull off. And after three decades, it’s brewed tons of behind-the-scenes stories and fun facts we couldn’t resist diving into. For the finale episode of our themed month, we’re talking cast crushes, All Hallows’ Eve nostalgia, and why Doug Jones continues to be the absolute best.
Resources
https://screenrant.com/hocus-pocus-behind-scenes-details-making-trivia/
https://ew.com/movies/hocus-pocus-cast-reunion-best-behind-scenes-stories/
https://www.hollywoodancestry.com/post/sarah-jessica-parker-descended-from-accused-witch
https://www.slashfilm.com/1579992/hocus-pocus-billy-moths-real-doug-jones-star-trek/
https://variety.com/2025/film/news/bette-midler-hocus-pocus-3-script-disney-1236556265/
Everyone knows witches and woods go hand in hand. So for the second installment of Season of the Witchtober, we’re taking it back to a film that sparked all our deeply-rooted fears of camping—The Blair Witch Project (1999). This culturally significant flick catapulted the found footage genre in a way that no one has been able to capture since. From the method filming experience to the viral marketing campaign, its release was perfectly timed with the early days of the internet, making everyone from boomers to babies think it might actually be real. In this episode of Why the Flick?, we’re speculating on all the theories and interpretations over the years as we deep dive the most famous witch never to be seen on camera (while also spiraling off into more than one unrelated movie tangent).
Resources
https://www.vice.com/en/article/blair-witch-project-oral-history-20th-anniversary/
https://collider.com/the-blair-witch-project-monster-design/
https://variety.com/2024/film/news/blair-witch-project-cast-robbed-financial-success-1236033647/
Here at Why the Flick? we love to get a little spooky. And with October right around the corner, we felt it was only right to celebrate the supernatural with our newest theme—Season of the Witchtober. All month long, we’ll be tapping into our witchy side and to kick things off we’re dabbling in The Craft (1996). This flick is the epitome of ‘90s witchcore aesthetic, complete with goth fashion, an ethereal soundtrack, and real-life inspired spells. Featuring an iconic female cast that includes Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Rachel True, and a pre-Scream Neve Campbell, it not only defined a vibe but also popularized the teen witch genre, making it the perfect first pick in our lineup. This episode, we’re embracing our weirdo selves while breaking down teen girl friendships, elemental symbolism, and the logistics of summoning 10,000 snakes.
Resources
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/the-craft-oral-history_n_5734f7c9e4b060aa7819d362
https://screenrant.com/the-craft-movie-behind-scenes-details-trivia/
What is it about being a kid and just wanting to be cool? It’s that universal dream we all low-key wished for and no early-aughts movie exudes absolute coolness more than Spy Kids (2001). Robert Rodriguez had his finger on the pulse when he debuted his first kid flick and launched the child espionage genre into popularity. Whether you watched it on repeat on cable TV or collected the McDonald’s Happy Meal toys, it’s a Y2K pop culture staple featuring an A-list cast and tons of surprise cameos—everyone from Cheech Marin to Danny Trejo and even George Clooney. In our latest episode, we’re unlocking core memories while discussing Latino representation, reminiscing on sibling rivalries, and unraveling all the nightmare-fuel visuals.
Resources
https://www.latimes.com/delos/story/2023-09-22/robert-rodriguez-spy-kids-film-director-armageddon
https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/spy-kids-anniversary-latinx-representation
Sometimes when you’re the reincarnation of a mythical princess and fighting facism, you gotta disobey a few rules. That’s the lesson we’re gleaning, anyway, from the dark fairy tale that is Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)—a movie all three of your hosts had never seen before, but one that’s instantly recognizable for its iconic visuals and nightmarish creatures. Guillermo del Toro is no stranger to fantasy and this one certainly cemented him as a genius in the genre. It’s a rich parable packed with enough symbolism to keep the internet ruminating with fan theories and interpretations for years. On our newest episode, we’re doing our part to unpack its many meanings while diving into our love of Doug Jones, the real vs imagined debate, and what the hell is up with the Pale Man.
Resources
https://www.cmucollege.com/blog/oscars-lookback-inside-the-world-of-pans-labyrinth/
https://www.slashfilm.com/1131730/why-doug-jones-thought-he-was-going-to-ruin-pans-labyrinth/
https://www.cbr.com/pans-labyrinth-underworld-real-or-imagined/
https://www.theotherfolk.blog/dissections/pans-labyrinth
https://medium.com/@culturalcurfew/the-hidden-meaning-behind-pans-labyrinth-1c06086919d
https://www.vivianasimos.com/incidental-mythology/the-meaning-of-the-pale-man
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/25-best-horror-movies-of-the-21st-century-ranked/
The time has come, Twihards. We've reached the end of Twilight Summer so obviously we had to go big for our series finale. This episode, we’re closing out the epic conclusion of the saga with a double feature of Breaking Dawn Part 1 and 2. Like many book adaptations of the 2000s era, this franchise split the last installment into a two-part cinematic event and for good reason. Because it turns out there’s a lot to unpack—from the wedding that turned A Thousand Years into the official aisle walk song, to the Renesmee/Chuckesmee debacle, and that famous bold choice ending. We also knew we couldn’t tackle these dual flicks alone which is why we invited actor and friend of the pod Abby Walburn to help make sense of all the chaos. So grab your blood cups, assemble your vampire Avengers, and join us for one last trip to Forks.
Follow Abby Walburn on Instagram and watch her TikTok video Pride and Prejudice: Unscripted
Resources
https://www.theguardian.com/film/2013/nov/05/chuckesmee-twilight-toddler-puppet-movie
How many ways can you call a worm a worm? Turns out quite a few if Tremors (1990) has anything to say about it. This horror comedy wiggled its way from box office bust to beloved cult classic thanks to the golden age of home video. And it’s no surprise considering it’s packed with a star-studded ensemble that includes Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, and THE Reba in her film debut. Now 30 years later, this OG creature feature has spawned a franchise so unhinged we low-key want to binge the whole thing. On the latest episode of Why the Flick?, we’re digging into what makes the movie so endearing, comparing cinematic worms, and pitching the next sequel (spoiler: it involves graboids in space).
Resources
OK listeners. It’s that time in the Twilight Summer series we’ve all kind of been dreading. Every franchise has its low point and in this case Eclipse (2010) is no exception. Despite the third installment in the saga delivering peak Edward-Bella-Jacob love triangle, its commitment to nonsense leaves us begging the question, “are you sure, Stephanie?” Whether it’s the lack of a decent wig budget or a completely unnecessary Confederate vampire subplot, it’s filled with more frustrating moments than Jacob at his most insufferable. In our newest episode, we’re doing our best to laugh through the cringe of it all while debating bald bloodsuckers, bizarre backstories, and *~battlescars~*.
Resources
https://www.vogue.com/article/the-twilight-saga-eclipse-45-thoughts-i-had
https://www.teenvogue.com/story/on-twilight-and-fictions-history-of-confederate-vampires-fan-service
There’s nothing like that summer camp feeling. The friendships. The outdoor activities. The accidental discovery of a secret twin sister. OK maybe not that last one, unless you’re in The Parent Trap (1998). In our latest episode, we’re getting nostalgic over the iconic remake that introduced Lindsay Lohan to the world so convincingly, we all believed there really were two of her. Rom-com queen Nancy Meyers was absolutely cookin’ with this one, serving up peak Napa Valley chic and a generation’s worth of unforgettable trends—from Oreos and peanut butter (yum) to DIY ear piercings (ouch). Join us as we point out homages to the 1961 original flick, debate American vs English accents, and try not to think too hard about that questionable custody arrangement.
Resources
https://www.buzzfeed.com/noradominick/parent-trap-behind-the-scenes-facts
https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2018/07/204967/lindsay-lohan-parent-trap-twins-first-movie
https://www.the-independent.com/life-style/elaine-hendrix-meredith-blake-tiktok-b2131000.html
Twilight Summer is back, baby! All season long, we’re diving into the wacky, wild world of Stephanie Meyer and next up is New Moon, the second installment and emo middle child of the franchise. Sure it might not be as fun as the original (it’s certainly the most depressing of the bunch) but despite bad breakups and dramatic paper cuts there’s still a lot to keep us entertained. Like the iconic chair spinning window montage. Italian vampires doing the absolute most. And best part of all—where the hell you *been* loca? This episode, we’re finding the bright spots in all the melodrama, from a perfectly moody soundtrack to a battle of the abs and even a well-deserved MTV award.
Resources
https://people.com/taylor-lautner-says-he-was-almost-recast-twilight-saga-8415680
https://www.autostraddle.com/twilight-new-moon-soundtrack-review-20184/
https://screenrant.com/twilight-quileute-controversy-native-mythology-scandal-explained/
https://filmdaze.net/twilight-sagas-issue-with-indigenous-culture/
https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a349249/twlights-robert-pattinson-taylor-lautner-abs-comparison-un
https://thetuscanmom.com/where-was-twilight-filmed-in-italy/
https://ew.com/article/2009/11/25/twilight-new-moon-dakota-fanning/
Happy Pride Month! This episode, we’re celebrating the moment with one of the most iconic films in queer cinema: But I’m a Cheerleader (1999). This cult classic redefined LGBTQ+ representation with its authentic portrayal of the femme lesbian experience and satirical commentary on the absurdity of conversion camps. Despite critics (and the rating system) not getting it at the time, Jamie Babbit’s campy gem has become a beloved favorite, packed with a killer cast, colorful visuals, and unforgettable needle drops. On our newest episode, we’re breaking out our pom-poms to discuss Natasha Lyonne and Clea DuVall’s rom-com chemistry, RuPaul pre-Drag Race, and more of our favorite Pride Month picks.
Resources
https://people.com/but-im-a-cheerleader-lgbtq-legacy-clea-duvall-exclusive-11745026
https://www.slashfilm.com/1045074/but-im-a-cheerleader-ending-explained-conversion-camps-are-absurd/
https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2024/06/28/style/but-im-a-cheerleader-movie-visuals
All good things must come to an end. Or do they? As we finally close out Monster Mania May with the movie that inspired the whole theme, we’re also kicking off a brand new event. Welcome to…Twilight Summer! For four months, we’ll be diving into the moody, sparkly, and supernatural saga so naturally we have to begin with the one that started it all—Twilight (2008). Before it became a worldwide phenomenon (and a box office juggernaut), this first flick was more akin to a small-budget indie, complete with a blue-tint look and soundtrack that still slaps. Catherine Hardwicke brought emo to the forefront along with a generous amount of unintentionally hilarious moments. On our latest episode, we’re breaking it all down with special guest and artist behind our logo Kate Bashaw. So hold on tight spider monkeys while we share our franchise histories, talk gaslighting vampires, and experience our own on-air Bella moment.
Follow Kate on Instagram and visit her website at kbashawart.com
Resources
https://collider.com/twilight-movie-book-comparison/
https://slate.com/culture/2021/07/twilight-music-list-best-movie-soundtrack-netflix.html
https://www.billboard.com/culture/tv-film/twilight-soundtrack-oral-history-8481427/
https://screenrant.com/twilight-movie-blue-color-tone-edward-bella-reason/
https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/robert-pattinson-performed-two-songs-on-twilight-soundtrack?amp
https://screenrant.com/twilight-quileute-controversy-native-mythology-scandal-explained/
https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/twilight-director-interview-2023
https://www.stylist.co.uk/entertainment/film/twilight-catherine-hardwicke-interview/841605
https://www.reddit.com/r/twilight/comments/1ks7t9k/catherine_hardwicke_chose_not_to_return_to_the/
Have you been absolutely loving Monster Mania May? We know you are, which is why we’re continuing our themed lineup with one of the most iconic creature features of all time: Alien (1979). That’s right, it’s the Ridley Scott genre-defining original that sparked a whole film franchise and launched Ellen Ripley into final girl fame. And with a new TV series on the horizon, one thing is certain—this classic is still very much in the cultural zeitgeist. On a new episode of Why the Flick?, we’re tackling our fears of deep space while exploring every moment that has us saying ooh and eww. From the legendary xenomorph design to the unforgettable chestburster scene, it’s a film that’s sick in more ways than one. So come along for the ride as we make Star Wars connections, debate Mother vs ChatGPT, and unpack the KY jelly of it all.
Resources
https://marygabriellestrause.medium.com/final-girl-and-ridley-scott-s-alien-74f5738d7dab
https://screenrant.com/alien-geiger-practical-effects-xenomorphs-scary/
https://alltherightmovies.com/feature/the-creation-of-the-alien/
https://www.cbr.com/alien-xenomorph-weyland-yutani/
https://www.slashfilm.com/1441564/alien-alternate-ending-disturbing-explained/
It’s been a hot minute since Why the Flick? had a monthly theme. Thankfully your three favorite accidental geniuses have come up with something special to keep you entertained over the next four weeks: introducing Monster Mania May! To kick things off, we knew we had to take it back to the classic universal monsters. Our first pick may not be one of the cinematic OGs, but it certainly was inspired by them which brings us to Young Frankenstein (1974). Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder’s parody of the reanimated neck-bolted monster (or zipper in this case) not only pays tribute to both Mary Shelley’s novel and the 1930s Hollywood films, but adds in a fresh mix of comedic elements—everything from witty puns to even a perfectly choreographed dance number. On our latest episode, we’re breaking down this cult classic while sharing our funniest moments, exploring the choice to film in black and white, and talking love cubes.
Resources
https://theasc.com/articles/the-story-behind-the-filming-of-young-frankenstein
https://www.moviemaker.com/young-frankenstein-article/
https://screenrant.com/young-frankenstein-behind-scenes-facts/
It’s a certain someone’s birthday on the pod! We’re celebrating our Taurus queen Danielle and gifting her the pick of this episode. So naturally, we chose a flick that’s quite literally the opposite of birth—The Death of Stalin (2017). Following the posthumous events of the Soviet dictator, it leans less historical drama and more political satire in a way that proves fact is often stranger than fiction. From a re-staged concert to funeral faux pas, it’s chock full of one ridiculous moment after another, all brought to life by a gaggle of comedic actors who really committed to the bit. But beyond the funny (not funny) of it all is also a terrifying reminder of just how easy it is for power to fall to egotistical maniacs. Join us as we laugh through the cringe while tracking down Stalin’s missing brain and thwarting possible Russian interference.
Resources
https://slate.com/culture/2018/03/whats-fact-and-whats-fiction-in-the-death-of-stalin.html
We never planned on picking the perfect April Fools’ Day movie. But when it features one of the biggest twist endings in cinema what can we say? Sometimes these things *~magically~* happen. We’re doing our best to unpack all the trickery and deception in The Prestige (2006). This Christopher Nolan masterpiece didn’t get as much love as some of his other blockbuster hits (although the hundreds of Reddit threads would tell you otherwise). If you’re anything like us, you only heard about it in passing or completely forgot the plot all together. Either way, there’s a ton to discuss on a new episode of Why the Flick? that explores real-life magician rivalries, fan theories about what’s real vs what’s illusion, and the sacrifices artists are willing to make for their obsessions.
Resources
https://screenrant.com/prestige-movie-ending-twists-explained-2
Sometimes you just need a good cry. Like a REALLY good cry. Well listeners get those tissues ready because we’re sobbing our way through the beloved classic Homeward Bound (1993). That’s right, it’s the heartwarming story we all know of Shadow, Chance, and Sassy trekking across wilderness to find the way back to their owners. Whether it brought you pure joy as a kid or leaves you emotionally wrecked as an adult, this movie is truly an incredible journey through all the feels. It’s also packed with an all-star cast of award-winning voices and animal performances that should have earned their own Oscars tbh. In this latest episode, we’re diving into the book that inspired it all, exploring pet telepathy, and breaking down the moments that had us in tears (hint: basically every single one).
Resources
Jamie Homs Homeward Bound TikTok
What's Your Favorite Horror Story TikTok
https://d23.com/did-you-know-8-incredible-facts-about-homeward-bound-the-incredible-journey/
OK so here’s the thing. When we recorded this episode weeks ago, we may have been a ~little~ presumptuous in predicting Demi Moore would win the Oscar for Best Actress. We even had a whole other episode description written just in case. But even though she didn’t take home the golden statue, her performance is nothing short of remarkable which brings us to the first flick of our season 5 lineup: The Substance (2024). This critically-acclaimed body horror film may have shocked theater-goers when it first came out (the poster doesn’t say “absolutely f***ing insane” for nothing). But beyond the gorgeously grotesque visuals, the themes are absolutely theming. From societal pressures on aging to unattainable beauty standards to the violence of self-deprecation, it's a film with a ton of....well substance. So tune in as we crack open Ozempic tie-ins, the art of gastronomy, and that bloody finale.
Resources
https://www.vogue.com/article/coralie-fargeat-the-substance-interview
https://www.asoundeffect.com/the-substance-film-sound/
https://www.vulture.com/article/the-substance-demi-moore-margaret-qualley-ending.html
https://www.gq.com/story/the-substance-effects
https://screenrant.com/the-substance-movie-easter-eggs-references/
Did you miss us? We’re back with a brand new season of Why the Flick? and some exciting news to share. They say good things come in threes so our podcast is officially growing to a trio as our friends Danielle and Alex join Claire to take on the hosting mantle together! To kick off this new year new us vibe, we’re serving up the perfect appetizer: a get to know us minisode. Whether you’re a long-time listener or a WTF newbie, there’s lots to discover about the three of us as we dive into movie-talk, how we met, and of course our Hogwarts houses. And make sure to join us on March 4 for our first full episode of season 5.
When Christmas Eve and our finale happened to fall on the same day, it felt only right to close out on theme. We're wrapping up season 4 and our festive lineup with an OG favorite that gifted us one of the best portrayals of Saint Nick in cinema—The Santa Clause (1994). John and Georgia from Comfort Films Podcast join us to bring the holiday spirit and explore the legal ramifications of replacing Santa after he falls off your roof. Because as it turns out the real Christmas lesson is remembering to read the fine print. This episode, come along for the sleigh ride as we unravel Tim Allen’s iconic performance, reminisce about our Santa stories, and get into clausE wordplay.
Listen to Comfort Films Podcast on Apple and Spotify. Follow @comfortfilmspodcast on Instagram.
Resources
https://screenrant.com/the-santa-clause-scott-calvin-shot-killed-santa-cut/
https://collider.com/the-santa-clause-production-drama/
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8NHJAYa/
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/bring-the-fun
License code: PV0SQGNBE5ZWZCW2