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Horror Studies
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Film & Classical Literature
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Hidden Histories & Forgotten Women
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Weird Travel & Places
The Beautiful Strange

Horror Studies

Featured
Legendary Folk Horror Retribution in THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD Movie (Explained)
Legendary Folk Horror Retribution in THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD Movie (Explained)

I love a folk hero deconstructed, especially in a prestige period drama. I also love hot grizzled old dudes fighting dirty. I love awesome costume, set, and sound design. And, above all this, I love folk horror. But be warned: like the movie poster states, Robin Hood was no hero. He was a murderous brigand.

DISCLOSURE DAY’s Aliens Aren’t as Chill as They Seem. Premise, Explained.
DISCLOSURE DAY’s Aliens Aren’t as Chill as They Seem. Premise, Explained.

My main questions when I wondered whether to see Disclosure Day:

  1. What is Disclosure Day trying to say about aliens?

  2. How alien-forward is this gonna be?

  3. Will I be too terrified to sleep after this?

6 Ways to Spot a Witch (in 17th Century Scotland)
6 Ways to Spot a Witch (in 17th Century Scotland)

Torture devices used to procure confessions from accused witches in 17th century Scotland.

Okay, I’ll try to explain what the “One Wish Willow” is based on in OBSESSION Movie’s Plot
Okay, I’ll try to explain what the “One Wish Willow” is based on in OBSESSION Movie’s Plot

If you’re interested in the concept of the One Wish Willow, it’s not just a one-off novelty gift from a New Age crystal shop. The concept of granting one wish with invariably miserable consequences goes back millennia. Here are some of those tales, explained.

MOTHER MARY Lacks Plot, but It Does Have a Magical Negro Trope and Divine / Controversial Costumes
MOTHER MARY Lacks Plot, but It Does Have a Magical Negro Trope and Divine / Controversial Costumes

I’m MOTHER MARY’s target demographic, the Gothic lover infatuated with high fashion and art history, and yet the only part of this film I adored was the divine costumes, which are shown in such rapid succession that I couldn’t even appreciate them.

Okay, I’ll try to Explain OVER YOUR DEAD BODY’s Ending
Okay, I’ll try to Explain OVER YOUR DEAD BODY’s Ending

The film’s synopsis makes Jorma Taconne’s Over Your Dead Body sound as if it will be a thriller/comedy, but this movie goes into slasher territory.

How I Know WIDOW’S BAY Series does Right by Horror Comedy Fans, based on the Pilot Episode’s Plot
How I Know WIDOW’S BAY Series does Right by Horror Comedy Fans, based on the Pilot Episode’s Plot

Widow’s Bay island is forty miles off New England. It’s quaint and beautiful, but its industry is dwindling. Mayor Tom Loftis (Matthew Rhys) tries to revive the economy by pitching Widow’s Bay as a perfect tourist destination. The locals are against it—but not for the reason you’d expect.

Okay, I’ll Try to Explain UNDERTONE Movie’s Ending and Plot
Okay, I’ll Try to Explain UNDERTONE Movie’s Ending and Plot

In order to explain the movie’s ending, I have to dissect the plot where it unravels, and to do that, I (creative writing MFA) ended up more-or-less workshopping the script. Here are my suggestions on how the plot might have been adjusted so that the ending might have delivered.

View All Horror Studies

Film & Classical Literature

Featured
The 8 Best Kills on THE SOPRANOS... and Why They Sting
The 8 Best Kills on THE SOPRANOS... and Why They Sting

These eight murders on THE SOPRANOS are real stingers because…

  1. visceral emotion is elicited

  2. they comment on a current event or social issue

  3. they challenge both sides of the issue without insulting or boring the audience.

Is Christopher Nolan’s THE ODYSSEY Movie Really That Good? Yes, Explained
Is Christopher Nolan’s THE ODYSSEY Movie Really That Good? Yes, Explained

Retelling the story of THE ODYSSEY for a new audience is the nature of this beast.

THE INVITE Movie: The Apartment Tour Explains the Ending / Everything
THE INVITE Movie: The Apartment Tour Explains the Ending / Everything

The Invite movie depicts the nuance of one flailing romantic relationship by extending the metaphor of a recently renovated and combined apartment. I love it when the form imitates the content, and The Invite really delivers.

Legendary Folk Horror Retribution in THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD Movie (Explained)
Legendary Folk Horror Retribution in THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD Movie (Explained)

I love a folk hero deconstructed, especially in a prestige period drama. I also love hot grizzled old dudes fighting dirty. I love awesome costume, set, and sound design. And, above all this, I love folk horror. But be warned: like the movie poster states, Robin Hood was no hero. He was a murderous brigand.

DISCLOSURE DAY’s Aliens Aren’t as Chill as They Seem. Premise, Explained.
DISCLOSURE DAY’s Aliens Aren’t as Chill as They Seem. Premise, Explained.

My main questions when I wondered whether to see Disclosure Day:

  1. What is Disclosure Day trying to say about aliens?

  2. How alien-forward is this gonna be?

  3. Will I be too terrified to sleep after this?

What Is Boots Riley’s Film, I LOVE BOOSTERS about? Costume design articulates the ethics of creativity and AI. Let me explain.
What Is Boots Riley’s Film, I LOVE BOOSTERS about? Costume design articulates the ethics of creativity and AI. Let me explain.

The costumes are the most important point of Boots Riley’s movie I Love Boosters because the form doesn’t just imitate the content here: the form is the content. Right down to the ending. Let me explain.

Okay, I’ll try to explain what the “One Wish Willow” is based on in OBSESSION Movie’s Plot
Okay, I’ll try to explain what the “One Wish Willow” is based on in OBSESSION Movie’s Plot

If you’re interested in the concept of the One Wish Willow, it’s not just a one-off novelty gift from a New Age crystal shop. The concept of granting one wish with invariably miserable consequences goes back millennia. Here are some of those tales, explained.

Should I See IS GOD IS? Is It Demonic? How Does the Movie Represent Black Women? All This, and the Ending, Explained.
Should I See IS GOD IS? Is It Demonic? How Does the Movie Represent Black Women? All This, and the Ending, Explained.

There are three main questions I’m seeing about Aleshea Harris’ film Is God Is:
1.     Is this movie demonic?
2.     Does it depict Black people fairly?
3.     Should I go see it?
Naturally, the answers are nuanced, but I’ll give you my candid answers as best I can.

View All Film & Classic Literature

Hidden Histories & Forgotten Women

Featured
Is Christopher Nolan’s THE ODYSSEY Movie Really That Good? Yes, Explained
Is Christopher Nolan’s THE ODYSSEY Movie Really That Good? Yes, Explained

Retelling the story of THE ODYSSEY for a new audience is the nature of this beast.

Legendary Folk Horror Retribution in THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD Movie (Explained)
Legendary Folk Horror Retribution in THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD Movie (Explained)

I love a folk hero deconstructed, especially in a prestige period drama. I also love hot grizzled old dudes fighting dirty. I love awesome costume, set, and sound design. And, above all this, I love folk horror. But be warned: like the movie poster states, Robin Hood was no hero. He was a murderous brigand.

6 Ways to Spot a Witch (in 17th Century Scotland)
6 Ways to Spot a Witch (in 17th Century Scotland)

Torture devices used to procure confessions from accused witches in 17th century Scotland.

What to Do in Atlanta Spring 2026 – Art, History, Design Edit
What to Do in Atlanta Spring 2026 – Art, History, Design Edit

Looking for events in Atlanta tailored to the history buff, the artist, designer, or lifelong learner in you? Here are the best options when art, history, and design lovers are considering what to do in Atlanta this spring. Specifically, April and May.

What are the Best Movies to Watch on St. Patrick’s Day?
What are the Best Movies to Watch on St. Patrick’s Day?

“Best Irish movies to watch on St. Patrick’s Day” here means tight scripts centered around history, crime, and horror.

Okay, I’ll Try to Explain UNDERTONE Movie’s Ending and Plot
Okay, I’ll Try to Explain UNDERTONE Movie’s Ending and Plot

In order to explain the movie’s ending, I have to dissect the plot where it unravels, and to do that, I (creative writing MFA) ended up more-or-less workshopping the script. Here are my suggestions on how the plot might have been adjusted so that the ending might have delivered.

Most Interesting Gala Events in Atlanta this Spring 2026
Most Interesting Gala Events in Atlanta this Spring 2026

Here are the four most interesting formal balls in Atlanta, this spring of 2026. Their causes range from services to those with special needs, to patronizing the arts, to preserving history, to conservation efforts… and if those causes weren’t reason enough, all these Atlanta events look like amazing parties. I’ve listed them in order of occurrence, so here’s your schedule!

Where to Watch the 2026 Oscars in Atlanta
Where to Watch the 2026 Oscars in Atlanta

Here are the best places to watch the 98th Academy Awards in Atlanta.

View All Hidden Histories & Forgotten Women

Weird Travel & Places

Featured
What to Do in Atlanta While You’re in Town for FIFA 2026 World Cup
What to Do in Atlanta While You’re in Town for FIFA 2026 World Cup

Don’t be a tourist in Atlanta—by that, I mean, have an experience in Atlanta that you can’t have anywhere BUT Atlanta. Complete with interactive map!

6 Ways to Spot a Witch (in 17th Century Scotland)
6 Ways to Spot a Witch (in 17th Century Scotland)

Torture devices used to procure confessions from accused witches in 17th century Scotland.

What to Do in Atlanta Spring 2026 – Art, History, Design Edit
What to Do in Atlanta Spring 2026 – Art, History, Design Edit

Looking for events in Atlanta tailored to the history buff, the artist, designer, or lifelong learner in you? Here are the best options when art, history, and design lovers are considering what to do in Atlanta this spring. Specifically, April and May.

Most Interesting Gala Events in Atlanta this Spring 2026
Most Interesting Gala Events in Atlanta this Spring 2026

Here are the four most interesting formal balls in Atlanta, this spring of 2026. Their causes range from services to those with special needs, to patronizing the arts, to preserving history, to conservation efforts… and if those causes weren’t reason enough, all these Atlanta events look like amazing parties. I’ve listed them in order of occurrence, so here’s your schedule!

Where to Watch the 2026 Oscars in Atlanta
Where to Watch the 2026 Oscars in Atlanta

Here are the best places to watch the 98th Academy Awards in Atlanta.

8½ Historical Things to Do in Las Vegas (Besides Gamble)
8½ Historical Things to Do in Las Vegas (Besides Gamble)

Non-gamblers, here are 8½ great historical things to do in Las Vegas.

Most Interesting Things to Do in Atlanta this February—Including What to Do for Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day
Most Interesting Things to Do in Atlanta this February—Including What to Do for Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day

6 Things to do in Atlanta in January 2026
6 Things to do in Atlanta in January 2026

I hand-picked the 6 events in Atlanta that seem the most entertaining for art, design, culture, and history enthusiasts.

View All Weird Travel & Places

The Beautiful Strange

Featured
THE INVITE Movie: The Apartment Tour Explains the Ending / Everything
THE INVITE Movie: The Apartment Tour Explains the Ending / Everything

The Invite movie depicts the nuance of one flailing romantic relationship by extending the metaphor of a recently renovated and combined apartment. I love it when the form imitates the content, and The Invite really delivers.

What Is Boots Riley’s Film, I LOVE BOOSTERS about? Costume design articulates the ethics of creativity and AI. Let me explain.
What Is Boots Riley’s Film, I LOVE BOOSTERS about? Costume design articulates the ethics of creativity and AI. Let me explain.

The costumes are the most important point of Boots Riley’s movie I Love Boosters because the form doesn’t just imitate the content here: the form is the content. Right down to the ending. Let me explain.

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2: What Happened to Nigel (Explained)
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2: What Happened to Nigel (Explained)

My biggest hope for The Devil Wears Prada 2 sequel was for Nigel Kipling (Stanley Tucci) to have already gotten his come-up after the Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) betrayal of the first film….

MOTHER MARY Lacks Plot, but It Does Have a Magical Negro Trope and Divine / Controversial Costumes
MOTHER MARY Lacks Plot, but It Does Have a Magical Negro Trope and Divine / Controversial Costumes

I’m MOTHER MARY’s target demographic, the Gothic lover infatuated with high fashion and art history, and yet the only part of this film I adored was the divine costumes, which are shown in such rapid succession that I couldn’t even appreciate them.

What to Do in Atlanta Spring 2026 – Art, History, Design Edit
What to Do in Atlanta Spring 2026 – Art, History, Design Edit

Looking for events in Atlanta tailored to the history buff, the artist, designer, or lifelong learner in you? Here are the best options when art, history, and design lovers are considering what to do in Atlanta this spring. Specifically, April and May.

MARC BY SOFIA, a Sofia Coppola Documentary Film about Marc Jacobs in which Fashion is Theatre, Plot Summary and Analysis
MARC BY SOFIA, a Sofia Coppola Documentary Film about Marc Jacobs in which Fashion is Theatre, Plot Summary and Analysis

The creative processes of other artforms are always fascinating, and the level of specificity to which Marc Jacobs (and Sofia Coppola) plunge in this film is its singular aspect.

What is the FORBIDDEN FRUITS Movie about? Girl Power, Witchcraft, Retail Therapy
What is the FORBIDDEN FRUITS Movie about? Girl Power, Witchcraft, Retail Therapy

A solid concept, vibes, and one excellent, charismatic actor in an otherwise flattish role does not counterbalance the lack of momentum in the slasher plot, underdeveloped characters, and tonal abandon.

Most Interesting Gala Events in Atlanta this Spring 2026
Most Interesting Gala Events in Atlanta this Spring 2026

Here are the four most interesting formal balls in Atlanta, this spring of 2026. Their causes range from services to those with special needs, to patronizing the arts, to preserving history, to conservation efforts… and if those causes weren’t reason enough, all these Atlanta events look like amazing parties. I’ve listed them in order of occurrence, so here’s your schedule!

View All The Beautiful Strange