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Screams & Streams

By: Mike & Chad
  • Summary

  • What if you could get a front row seat on a journey through the best and worst horror movies of the past half-century, all rated on Rotten Tomatoes? Brace yourself for an eerie tour with your hosts, Chad Campbell and Mike Carron, as they dissect each film with a surgeon's precision and a fan's passion. Our story began on a mundane work day, when two colleagues, Chad and Mike, decided to start a podcast centered on their shared love for horror films. The search for a genre was a winding, convoluted exploration of possibilities, before we arrived at the chilling idea of horror films.

    Our journey didn’t stop there. We had to figure out where to begin, how to categorize each film, and the scale to use for our rating system. We landed on a year-by-year review of the best and the worst films, starting from 1970 - the dawn of modern horror. Our shows come packed with a variety of categories like First Impressions, Tropes Hall of Shame, One-liners, and more. We also rate each film on a watchability scale, advising if it's worth your precious time. Join us as we sometimes agree, and other times disagree with Rotten Tomatoes' ratings. So, fasten your seat belts, it's going to be a spooky ride!

    Head to www.screamsandstreams.com for links and information related to our episodes.

    © 2024 Screams & Streams
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Episodes
  • Ep. 41: Adrzej Zulawski's "Possession" (1981)
    Jun 22 2024

    What happens when a cult classic film leaves our guest completely baffled and one of our hosts downright furious? Tune in to this episode of "Screams and Streams" as we grapple with Andrzej Żuławski's 1981 enigmatic masterpiece, "Possession." We promise a roller-coaster of emotions as Chad summarizes the film's complex plot before diving headfirst into the trio's vastly different first impressions—ranging from Sam's confusion to Chad’s outright hatred, and Mike's conflicted intrigue.

    Prepare for some hearty laughs and raised eyebrows as we dissect the film's most bizarre tropes and scenarios, from a way-too-attentive elementary school teacher making house calls to explode-on-command taxi drivers. We debate the humor in the action scenes and highlight some memorable one-liners that may make you question the film’s logic but still keep you entertained. The odd choices in character behavior and the quirky dialogue offer a unique blend of absurdity and entertainment that makes "Possession" a one-of-a-kind viewing experience.

    Finally, we sink our teeth into a deeper critique of the film’s more unsettling aspects, including Sam Neill's peculiar performance and the jarring fight scenes, which left us all puzzled. We also explore the film’s impressive visual style, emotional portrayals, and eerie 80s synth pop soundtrack, while unpacking the symbolic richness imbued by Żuławski’s direction. Whether you're here for the laughs or the thought-provoking analysis, this episode promises a compelling look at a film that continues to mystify and provoke strong reactions.

    Head to www.screamsandstreams.com for more information related to our episode.

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    54 mins
  • Ep. 40: Sam Raimi's "The Evil Dead" (1981)
    Jun 15 2024

    What happens when you mix a classic horror film with a custom-themed cocktail? Join us on Screams and Streams as we launch our new segment, Sinister Sips, featuring the "Sour of the Dead" while we dissect Sam Raimi's spine-chilling 1981 movie, Evil Dead. Alongside guest Sam Schreiner, we delve into the eerie plotlines, groundbreaking special effects, and innovative camera work that earned this film its rightful place as an independent horror masterpiece. We also share our experiences with the movie, discussing everything from the first impressions to the evolution of Ash's character.

    Ever wondered why The Evil Dead stands out among other horror films despite its dated claymation and stop-motion effects? We break down the familiar tropes, memorable quotes, and unique acting styles that contribute to its charm and lasting impact. From the unsettling shaky camera effect to the quintessential creepy cabin setting, we highlight the elements that make Evil Dead both amusing and terrifying. We'll also critique those infamous scenes—the gruesome, the humorous, and the downright bizarre moments that make this film unforgettable.

    Curious about what went on behind the scenes? We've got you covered. Discover the grueling filming conditions, humorous cast anecdotes, and inventive methods used to create the film’s iconic effects. We provide insights into the gender dynamics of possession and the emotional rollercoaster experienced by the cast and crew. Before we sign off, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @ScreamStreamPod and visit ScreamsAndStreams.com for more information. Rate, comment, and subscribe to keep the horror discussions coming!

    Head to www.screamsandstreams.com for more information related to our episode.

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    49 mins
  • Ep. 39: Jimmy Huston's "Final Exam" (1981)
    Jun 8 2024

    How does a slasher film flop so spectacularly that it becomes a cult classic? Join us on Screams and Streams as we explore the enigma that is Jimmy Huston's 1981 horror flick, "Final Exam." The action takes place at a small North Carolina college, where students find themselves targeted by a mysterious killer during their exam break. We kick things off with our initial impressions, critiquing the film's shaky attempt to blend college comedy with the slasher genre and noting its struggle to mimic "Halloween" due to poor writing and acting. Our sinister sip for this episode, the Scofflaw cocktail, left us feeling sour—literally—prompting us to suggest some tweaks for a better balance.

    Prepare for a laugh as we recount the film's more absurd elements, from the killer's unmasked appearance to the cringe-worthy joke about school shootings. It's hard not to mock the nonsensical decisions, like the implausible prank involving a fake shooting, which feels painfully out of place today. We draw comparisons to the meta-commentary style of "Scream," pointing out the lack of backstory and motivation for the killer that makes "Final Exam" a perplexing watch. We also highlight moments that are so bad they're almost good, like the scene where the killer peers comically through a windshield.

    As we dissect the standout and cringe-worthy moments, we can't help but commend the heroine's determination and the noteworthy gym fight that wraps up the film. From the lack of empathy shown during a killing scene to an actor enduring real ice water for a prank, we cover it all. We delve into fascinating behind-the-scenes tidbits, such as the film being shot in sequence and the reckless safety practices on set, providing a glimpse into the chaos of low-budget filmmaking. So tune in for a chuckle, some eye-rolls, and a deeper appreciation for the wild, flawed world of "Final Exam.

    Head to www.screamsandstreams.com for more information related to our episode.

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    39 mins

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