Nostalgium Arcanum - Episodes Tagged with “Horror”

The Silence of the Lambs

Doug Lief — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0800

Quid pro quo. For 35 years The Silence of the Lambs has been a profoundly troubling (and controversial) film. Like its singularly memorable antagonist Hannibal Lecter, the film forces us to stare down the horrors that haunt us, both external violent threats, and more importantly, internal traumatic scars we'd rather not revisit. Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster's Academy Award winning career-best performances and Jonathan Demme's masterful direction come together to create one of the finest and scariest films ever made. We're joined by fellow inmate filmmaker Alex Sosin (The Canyon) to sew together what makes The Silence of the Lambs the compelling masterpiece it is, and dissect it with this blunt little tool.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

If you have feedback, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Music From "The Silence of the Lambs" by Howard Shore
Goodbye Horses - Q Lazzarus
Put the Fucking Lotion In The Basket - Jon and Al Kaplan
Lotion - Greenskeepers

The Mummy (1999)

Doug Lief — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:15:00 -0800

He will never eat. He will never sleep. He will never stop. We unearth the unrelentingly fun 1999 iteration of "The Mummy". Whatever faults may lay in the script or its charmingly outdated CGI are sanded down like a magic Saharan whirlwind by spectacularly charming performances by future Oscar winners Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. Jacob Price of the Pre-Order Bonus podcast joins our expedition to this franchise whose appeal is Universal.

Be sure to also check out our musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm. Also check out our limited-run Jim Henson series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from The Mummy by Jerry Goldsmith
Walk Like An Egyptian - The Bangles
King Tut - Steve Martin

Alien

Doug Lief — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800

Ridley Scott's seminal sci-fi horror masterpiece remains a "perfect organism". Alien is equal parts atmospheric, paranoid, and just plain disgusting. With a career-making performance from Sigourney Weaver and unparalleled visuals from the deep recesses of H. R. Giger's psyche, the film latches on and implants itself, not unlike its extraterrestrial antagonist. Guest podcaster and lucky star Case Aiken (Another Pass, Men of Steel) stows away on board to discuss why Alien is a beloved classic over 45 years later. You have our sympathies.

You can support Case and his network, CertainPOV, at patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, "Playing By Ear" (https://playingbyear.fireside.fm) and our limited-run Jim Henson Series, "Still Muppeting" (patreon.com/stillloadingpod).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from Alien by Jerry Goldsmith
You Are My Lucky Star - Gene Kelly
Hello! Ma Baby - Michigan J. Frog

Coraline

Doug Lief — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

Be careful what you wish for this Halloween. On this special it's a family affair as the Other Doug and the Other Ami welcome their children Celeste and Ben into the other world of 2009's Coraline. This stop-motion masterpiece spins a web and puts a button or two on a modern Grimm fairy tale about how the grass seems greener on the other side of a tiny mysterious door.

Be sure to also check out our musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Score From Coraline by Bruno Coulais
The Other Father Song - They Might Be Giants
Treat Your Mother Right - Mr. T

The Colour Out Of Space

Doug Lief — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

For this year's Halloween bonus reading, we're going down to Nahum's farm and taking a gander at "The Colour Out Of Space", cosmic horror master H.P. Lovecraft's unsettling tale of a chromatic contagion from beyond the stars.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:
Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
Creator Tears - Salvitsky
The Red Weed, Pt. 1 - Jeff Wayne
Babylon - Jeff Beal

Fright Night

Doug Lief — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

Hi-Diddly-Ho, neighborino! When Jerry Dandridge moves in next door, young Charlie Brewster's worst fears are confirmed, leading to a one-of-a-kind horror comedy that, unlike Jerry, does not suck. Guest comedian and filmmaker Tarik Davis (@tarikrdavis, tarikrdavis.com) joins us to stake out this meta Halloween tale that we're happy to invite into our homes.

You can find Tarik on NBC's The Amber Ruffin Show, and on his essential podcast, Brothers From Another Planet, see him perform live with Freestyle Love Soupreme.

More importantly, Tarik's short film "Doc - Race, Revolution, Relativity, and the Confessions of a Time Travelling Terrorist" is now out and you can (and should) watch it here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-uBvVgBTIY)

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from Fright Night by Brad Fiedel
Fright Night - J. Geils Band
Seinfeld - Jonathan Wolff and Yoni Wolf

Evil Dead 2: Dead By Dawn

Doug Lief — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

There's only one word to describe Evil Dead 2 - Groovy! On this episode we're joined by deadite Dan Oster (MadTV, A Podcast, But Evil) to accidentally read from the Necronomicon and summon Sam Raimi's wild ride of horror, gore, and comedy that literally takes a chainsaw to just about everything. Headlined by human cartoon Bruce Campbell, the film remains a rollicking great blood geyser of Halloween fun.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

And for some extra ED2 fun, if you're in southern California be sure to check out Slashers Axe Throwing & Ales at 1941 Newport Blvd #105, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (https://slashersoc.com/)

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:
Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All score from Evil Dead II by Joseph LoDuca
The 59th Street Bridge Song - Simon & Garfunkel
Do The Necronomicon - Christopher Bond, Frank Cipolla, Melissa Morris, George Reinblatt

The Fly (Redux)

Doug Lief — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

Be afraid... be very afraid. For a bonus episode this year we're returning to the subejct of our fourth podcast for a more in-depth look at David Cronenberg's profound and deeply upsetting remake of The Fly. Filmmaker Alex Sosin gets into the teleporter with us for the grossest love story ever made.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

Be sure to also check out our musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Music From The Fly by Howard Shore
Brundlefly - Jeff Whitmire (parody of Butterfly by Crazy Town)

Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare

Doug Lief — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

9... 10... we can sleep again because, at long last, Freddy's Dead. For real this time. We mean it. This episode we nod off with Rick Firestone of the Pixel Project Radio podcast to eulogize the undisputed roastmaster of horror, Freddy Krueger. This entry is one of the most unweildy in the franchise, but it still carries the series' flare for wild, imaginative dream sequences, and the most one-liners of any slasher film.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

If you have feedback, send it via Mognet or find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
I'm Awake Now - Goo Goo Dolls
Inna Gadda Da Vida - Iron Butterfly
Why Was I Born? (Freddy's Dead) - Iggy Pop
All score from Freddy's Dead by Brian May

The Thing

Doug Lief — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:15:00 -0700

Why don't we just wait here for a little while, see what happens? 1982's "The Thing" was a critical and commercial failure, until its insidious genius began an infection that has spread to its complete takeover as a horror landmark. Comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) joins us to examine this brilliant, grotesque, and paranoia-inducing film.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:
Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All music from The Thing by Ennio Morricone
Lauryn Hill - Doo Wop (That Thing)

Destroy All Monsters

Doug Lief — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:15:00 -0700

It's mosnters versus aliens as Godzilla, Rodan, Mothra, and company find themselves at the mercy of an extraterrestrial menace in 1968's "Destroy All Monsters". Why have one kaiju when you can have them all? We don rubber suits and stomp on model cities with guest Joe Mastropiero aka Joedecahedron of the Dice Training podcast to celebrate a franchise that literally left an enormous footprint on cinema.

Be sure to also check out our monthy musical podcast, Playing By Ear! - https://playingbyear.fireside.fm

You can also use YouTube, if that's your thing: https://www.youtube.com/@NostalgiumArcanum/podcasts

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from "Destroy All Monsters" by Akira Ifukube
Godzilla vs. King Kong - Epic Rap Battles of History

Super Metroid

Doug Lief — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:15:00 -0700

In space, no one can hear you scream, or roll into a little ball. Super Metroid is yet another jewel in Nintendo's crown, and one whose labyrinthine corridors of sci-fi horror forever cemented a genre of gameplay that has cast a shadow for over three decades. Matt Storm aka Matt Stormageddon of the "Fun" and Games, and Reignite podcasts joins us to celebrate Samus Aran and this seminal entry in the long-running Metroid series.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Score from Super Metroid by Kenji Yamamoto and Minako Hamano

Leprechaun In The Hood

Doug Lief — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:15:00 -0700

For St. Patrick's day, we have a treat. A horror film that's pretty neat. We're revisiting Leprechaun In The Hood, and a Lep in the 'hood, come to do no good. Guest Jala Prendes (host of Jala-Chan' Place, Monster, Dear Monster, and Duckfeed.tv's The Level) and her husband, Dave (co-host of Monster, Dear Monster) have a direct-to-video sequel to praise and rave. It's podcast gold, but listener beware, of Warwick Davis and Ice-T's towering hair.

Find Jala online at @Fireheart_Media on X and fireheartmedia.bsky.social. Her show "The Level" is also part of the Duckfeed.tv podcast network.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from Lepechaun In The Hood by Nicholas Rivera

80s Movies - Part 2

Doug Lief — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:15:00 -0800

1985 through 1989 was the best period of filmmaking, period. Each of these years produced dozens of groundbreaking, blockbusting, genre defining, and unforgettable movies, making listing our top tens nearly impossible. Our review crew of Ami Lief, Ryan Merlo, and Tania Newton join us to close out our survey course of the best, of the best, of the best.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Oh Yeah - Yello
Score from Cocktail – J. Peter Robinson
Score from Masters of the Universe – Bill Conti
Score from Robocop – Basil Poledouris
Score from The Princess Bride – Mark Knopfler
Score from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade – John Williams
Poor Unfortunate Souls – Alan Menken / Howard Ashman
Score from Big – Howard Shore
Score from The Fly – Howard Shore
The Edge of Forever – Dream Academy
Score from Pretty In Pink – Michael Gore
Score from Labyrinth – Trevor Jones
Score from The Goonies – Dave Grusin
Score from Clue: The Movie – John Morris
Score from The Wizard – J. Peter Robinson
Score from Back to the Future: Part III – Alan Sylvestri
Score from Who Framed Roger Rabbit – Alan Sylvestri
Babysitting Blues – Albert Collins
Take My Breath Away – Berlin
Score from Big Trouble In Little China – John Carpenter and Alan Howath
Don’t You Forget About Me – Simple Minds

80s Movies - Part 1

Doug Lief — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:15:00 -0800

The films from 1980 to 1984, buoyed by genre hits like Star Wars, took flight with bold imaginative storytelling and state-of-the-art special effects, establishing many franchises that continue to this day. We're joined by guests Tania Newton and Ryan Merlo to rank our top ten movies from this incredible period.

If you have feedback, send it via the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Score from The Neverending Story by Giorgio Moroder & Klaus Doldinger
Score from E.T.: The Extraterrestrial by John Williams
Score from The Terminator by Brad Feidel
Score from The Empire Strikes Back by John Williams
Score from Raiders of the Lost Ark by John Williams
Score from The Karate Kid by Bill Conti
Score from Blade Runner by Vangelis
Score from Tron by Wendy Carlos
Score from Gremlins by Jerry Goldsmith
Score from Return of the Jedi by John Williams
Score from Rocky III by Bill Conti
Score from Ghostbusters by Elmer Bernstein
Ghostbusters by Ray Parker, Jr.
I’m Alright – Kenny Loggins

Pirates of the Caribbean (Ride)

Doug Lief — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0700

Happy Halloween to you villains and knaves! This be a family affair, says I. We be joined by devils, black sheep, and really bad eggs Ami, Celeste (age 8), and Benjamin (age 5) Lief to follow a map to the classic Disney attraction Pirates of the Caribbean and discuss why it's still a pirate's life for me for nearly sixty years since the ride first opened in Anaheim. Drink up, me hearties, yo ho!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Yo Ho! A Pirate's LifeFor Me and score from the Pirates of the Caribbean ride by George Bruns and Xavier Atencio
All score from the Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise by Klaus Baudelt and Hans Zimmer

Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas

Doug Lief — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0700

This is Halloween! This is Halloween! For our final mainline October episode guest Matt Storm aka Stormageddon of the "Fun" and Games, and Reignite podcasts tricks and treats with us to revisit this masterclass in stop-motion animation that lets us celebrate two holidays for the price of one.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All songs and score from Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas by Danny Elfman

The Masque of the Red Death

Doug Lief — Sat, 26 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0700

It's a bonus episode on top of a bonus episode! We're doing another Halloween reading, this time we're commemorating the Phantom of the Opera's favorite costume by revisiting Edgar Allen Poe's immortal classic, The Masque of the Red Death. The short story features Poe's gloomy mysterious prose, and strikes at our shared anxieties about pestilence and mortality.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Leyndell, Royal Capital (Yuka Kitamura)
Edgar Allen Poe (Larry Grossman / Hal Hackady)

A Nightmare On Elm Street

Doug Lief — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0700

For 40 years Freddy Krueger has stopped us from getting 40 winks. Arguably the king of the 80s slasher villains, Freddy's first outing remains as fresh as a liquified Johnny Depp. This week guests (and huge fans) Ami Lief and Betsy Allen join us to grab their crucifixes, stay up late, and never sleep again.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

And please check out Betsy's writing here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08PTRRT1B?ingress=0&visitId=3f9ec9cc-a038-429c-990d-0e1ad6fc555a

Check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Score From A Nightmare on Elm Street by Charles Bernstein
Ready For Freddy - The Fat Boys

The Phantom Of The Opera (1925)

Doug Lief — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0700

We can't stay silent about the classic 1925 version of The Phantom of the Opera. From Lon Chaney's iconically inhuman make-up to his all-too-human performance, the film still thrills and chills nearly 100 years later. We're joined once again by writer/director of The Canyon, Alex Sosin, to venture into the depths below the Paris opera house and revel in the true face of what dwells within.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

And if you want to watch The Canyon in its entirety check it out at the Twin Cities Film Festival or stream it here: https://twincitiesfilmfest.org/film-fest-movie/the-canyon/

To watch Phantom of the Opera itself (the version we're referring to in the cast) watch it here: https://youtu.be/TUamUHcxMVY?si=VpW4QjvN0tMfpaJJ

And if you want bonus Phantom '25 content, please subscribe to our friend Jala Prendes' podcast, Jala-Chan's Place, to hear us delve into the notable production and film preservation issues surrounding the film. That companion episode will release on October 25.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Score from The Phantom of the Opera by Gustav Hinrichs
M.A.S.K. - Haim Saban / Shuki Levy

Killer Klowns From Outer Space

Doug Lief — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:15:00 -0700

Send in the Klowns, from light years away. Killer Klowns From Outer Space remains a kampy konfection of 1980s klassic horror that still thrills and chills with big top bombast. We're joined by comedians Rich Baker and Merry Mary Hynes to praise this film's tightrope-walking silliness that's as tasty as cotton candy and only slightly less deadly.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Killer Klowns From Outer Space (The Dickeys)
Send In The Clowns (Stephen Sondheim)
Entry of the Gladiators (Julius Fučík)
All Score from Killer Klowns From Outer Space by John Massari
Tears Of A Clown (Smokey Robinson)

2000s Movies: Part 1

Doug Lief — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:15:00 -0700

The first half of the 2000s was a time for building franchises, adapting IPs, and getting a jittery country back on its feet. In this episode our crew (Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Ryan Merlo) join us to round-table our favorite films from 2000 to 2004 and all that jazz.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All Score from “Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” by Klaus Badelt and Hans Zimmer
All Score from “The Butterfly Effect” by Michael Suby
All Score from “Frequency” by Michael Kamen
All Score from “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Edward Shearmur
“Cell Block Tango” by John Kander and lyrics written by Fred Ebb
All Score from “Donnie Darko” by Michael Andrews
All Score from “National Treasure” by Trevor Rabin
All Score from “The Others” by Alejandro Amenábar
All Score from “Black Hawk Down” by Hans Zimmer
All Score from Ocean’s Eleven by David Holmes
All Score from “Miss Congeniality” by Edward Shearmur
All Score from “Legally Blonde” by Rolfe Kent
All Score from “The Notebook” by Aaron Zigman
Fly by Lenny Kravitz
Keep Your Hands to Yourself by The George Satellites
All Score from “Harry Potter and the Sorceror’s Stone” by John Williams
All Score from “The Patriot” by John Williams
All Score from “Spirited Away” by Joe Hisaishi
All Score from “Love Actually” by Craig Armstrong
All Score from “Spider-Man 2” by Danny Elfman
All Score from “Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind” by Jon Brion
All Score from “I Am Sam” by John Powell
All Score from “Remember the Titans” by Trevor Rabin
All Score from “The Lord of the Rings” by Howard Shore
“All That Jazz” by John Kander and lyrics written by Fred Ebb

Jaws

Doug Lief — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:15:00 -0700

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the podcast, writer/director of horror short "The Canyon" Alex Sosin joins us to swim with sharks as we celebrate Steven Spielberg's aquatic horror blockbuster, Jaws. The film elevates a b-horror premise to an all-time maritime masterpiece.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from Jaws by John Williams
Show Me The Way To Go Home (Jimmy Campbell and Reg Connelly, performed by Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw)

Predator

Doug Lief — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 01:00:00 -0700

Listen to this episode! Come on! Do it! Do it now! Guest Jala Prendes (host of Jala-Chan' Place, Monster, Dear Monster, and Duckfeed.tv's The Level) joins us to once again watch Arnold Schwarzenegger go mano-a-mano, this time against an alien killing machine on safari. For all its loud 80s action, the film's less-is-more approach is why this classic still gives viewers a mighty handshake nearly four decades on.

Find Jala online at @Fireheart_Media on X and fireheartmedia.bsky.social. Her show The Level is also part of the Duckfeed.tv podcast network.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Long Tall Sally - Little Richard
All score from Predator by Alan Sylvestri
If It Bleeds We Can Kill It - Jon and Al Kaplan

90s Movies - Part 2

Doug Lief — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0700

We conclude our survey course of 90s movies by revisiting the late teens of our crew of guests (Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Ryan Merlo) for those films that challenged us and shaped us into who we are. Once again, our lists feature fan favorites and hidden gems alike.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Where Is My Mind – The Pixies
Hackers – Score by Simon Boswell
Out There – Alan Menken / Stephen Schwartz (Performed by Tony Jay and Tom Hulce)
These Eyes – The Guess Who
Liar Liar – Score by John Debney
Sliding Doors – Score by David Hirschfelder
Se7en – Score by Howard Shore
American History X – Score by Anne Dudley
Ever After – Score by George Fenton
Die Hard With A Vengeance – Score By Michael Kamen
Face/Off – Score by John Powell
The Matrix – Score By Don Davis
Braveheart – Score by James Horner
Fear – Score by Carter Burwell
Fight Club – Music by The Dust Brothers
Life Is Beautiful – Score by Nicola Piovani
The Truman Show – score by Burkhard Dallwitz, Philip Glass, and Wojciech Kilar
Amish Paradise - “Weird” Al Yankovic

90s Movies - Part 1

Doug Lief — Mon, 27 May 2024 01:00:00 -0700

On this episode our crew (Ami Lief, Tania Newton, and Ryan Merlo) join us for the first of a two-part roundtable of our top ten 90s films. This part focuses on movies released from 1990 to 1994. See if your favorites line up with ours, and perhaps you'll find a few hidden gems you may have missed.

Be sure to check out Ami's beautiful handmade earrings at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoBunnysmoreCo

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Misirlou – Dick Dale
Green Onions – Booker T. & the M.G.'s
The Lion King score by Hans Zimmer
The Fugitive score by James Newton Howard
Low Rider – War
The Man In The Moon score by James Newton Howard
The Joy Luck Club score by Rachel Portman
Oh Happy Day – St. Francis Choir featuring Ryan Toby
Schindler’s List – Score by John Williams
The Silence of the Lambs – Score by Howard Shore
Philadelphia – Score by Howard Shore
Be Our Guest – Howard Ashman / Alan Menken
Candyman – Score by Phillip Glass
The Shawshank Redemption – Score by Howard Shore
Jurassic Park – Score by John Williams
Wes Craven’s New Nightmare – Score by Patrick Lussier
Forrest Gump – Score by Alan Sylvestri
Point Break – Score by Mark Isham
I Got You Babe – Sonny and Cher

The Terminator

Doug Lief — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0800

No matter how many times Arnold has been back, the original Terminator film still holds up as a taut, suspensful, scifi horror classic. Guest Jala Prendes (host of Jala-Chan' Place, Monster, Dear Monster, and Duckfeed.tv's The Level) joins us to praise the exquisitely crafted and sturdy skeleton beneath James Cameron's powerful 1984 masterpiece.

Find Jala online at @Fireheart_Media on X and fireheartmedia.bsky.social. Her show The Level is also part of the Duckfeed.tv podcast network.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from The Terminator by Brad Fiedel
Epic Rap Battles of History: RoboCop vs. The Terminator (Epic Lloyd and Nice Peter)

RoboCop

Doug Lief — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0800

Like RoboCop himself, beneath this film's flashy exterior lies turmoil and humanity. Guests comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) and Dan Oster (MadTV, A Podcast, But Evil) join us to investigate Paul Verhoeven's dystopian satire of dehumanization, but one that still manages to kick a lot of iron butt. I'd buy that for a dollar.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits

Intro - Dark Flute - Jim Guthrie
All score from RoboCop by Basil Poledouris
Murphy, It's You - Jon and Al Kaplan

Batman Returns

Doug Lief — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0800

It's Christmas in Gotham and writer/director of horror short "The Canyon" Alex Sosin joins to once again delve into Tim Burton's gothic nightmare vision of the Bat, the Cat, and the Penguin in a supersized present of an episode. It's bigger and more unwieldy than its predecessor, but no less compelling and terrifying.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content, and on TikTok (@nostalgiumarcanum) for Doug's impressions.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Face to Face (Siouxie & The Banshees)
All score from Batman Returns by Danny Elfman
Temptation Sensation - Heinz Kiessling

Batman (1989)

Doug Lief — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Tim Burton's fantastical vision of the Caped Crusader and his dark gothic expressionist world forever changed the superhero genre, and the way blockbusters are made. This episode writer/director of The Canyon horror short film Alex Sosin (@alexsosin4831) joins me to revisit our shared love of the summer of Batmania.

Check out the teaser for The Canyon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFFWbNbdtKA

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All other score from Batman by Danny Elfman

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Doug Lief — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700

Let's do the Time Warp again as special guest writer/director/actress/producer Shakina Nayfack (@shakeenz, Difficult People, Quantum Leap) joins us to send off our Halloween season with a bang, emphasis on the bang. This musical is a one-of-a-kind blend of rock, camp, horror, and sexual exploration that really puts the "fluid" in gender fluidity, one that has and always will inspire hordes of live audiences to not just dream it, but to be it.

Also, feel free to yell "asshole" and "slut" at us as you listen to this.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All songs from RHPS by Richard O'Brien

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Doug Lief — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Over 200 years old and still scaring people, Washington Irving's masterpiece remains a Halloween classic and an all-time great ghost story. On this episode we not only discuss it, but as a bonus, the entire tale is here as an audiobook for your enjoyment.

Also, for bonus podcast content, please check out the Headless Horseman episode of our old show, "A Podcast, But Evil"!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Ichabod Crane sung by Bing Crosby (Don Raye / Gene de Paul)
Academy of Raya Lucaria (Yuka Kitamura)
The Hunter's Workship (Yuka Kitamura)

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Doug Lief — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd, who murdered patrons so we could pod. Actress, comedian, and host of Coming Out Pod Lauren Flans (@comingoutpod, @LaurenFlans) joins us to dine on Stephen Sondheim's horror musical masterpiece of class and cannibalism.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All excerpts of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street from its original cast recording, music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
What Do I Think of the Pie? (Alf Clausen)

Resident Evil 4

Doug Lief — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0700

¡Puedes correr, pero no te puedes esconder! Resident Evil 4 was a revolutionary game that revitalized the series and videogames as a whole through its combination of tense dynamic gameplay, best-in-class body horror, and unsettling tone. Ken Cole of KenCast (@kenergycole) joins us to once again plunge into RE4's irresistible terrors.

Find more of Ken's fantastic content at https://www.youtube.com/@KenCole

Also, I was honored to be a guest on KenCast. You can subscribe to KenCast to hear it, or watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rc8eh4010YA

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:
Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from Resident Evil 4 by Misao Senbongi and Shusaku Uchiyama

It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

Doug Lief — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Good Grief! It's finally Halloween and that means it's time for comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) to join our yearly vigil in the seasonal Peanuts special that is the most sincere.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Linus and Lucy (and all other score) by Vince Guaraldi
Charlie Brown (The Coasters)

Doom

Doug Lief — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Doom's lasting impact on the world of video games remains as potent as ever 30 years on. Comedian Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) throws on a helmet with us to return to Mars and blast away at all manner of digital demons.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Theme from The Greatest American Hero (Joey Scarbury)
Theme from Seinfeld (Jonathan Wolff, Yoni Wolf)
Theme from The Simpsons (Danny Elfman)
All music from Doom (Mick Gordon)

Buffy The Vampire Slayer (Series)

Doug Lief — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0700

Slayers gonna slay as paranormal fiction writer Betsy Allen joins our Scooby Gang to revisit TV's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer", where our heroes face off against the undead, the unholy, and all the awkward emotional garbage the life slings at you as you grow from a teenager to an adult. This series created a unique blend of quippy dialogue, interpersonal drama, and things that go bump in the night, that renders it unique and deeply personal to all who have been ensorceled by its charms.

If you're a watcher (or in this case, a listener) and have feedback, find us on the socials here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265036650022926/
The symbol formerly known as Twitter: @nostalgiumpod
BlueSky: @nostalgiumpod.bsky.social
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@_nostalgium_arcanum_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_nostalgium_arcanum_/

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

And please check out Betsy's writing here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08PTRRT1B?ingress=0&visitId=3f9ec9cc-a038-429c-990d-0e1ad6fc555a

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Buffy The Vampire Slayer Theme - Nerf Herder
Rest In Peace - Joss Whedon
Going Through The Motions (Joss Whedon)
They Got The Mustard Out (Joss Whedon)
I'll Never Tell (Joss Whedon)
Under Your Spell (Joss Whedon)
Through The Fire (Joss Whedon)
All other Buffy score by Christophe Beck or Thomas Wanker

Gremlins

Doug Lief — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Guest Rich Baker (@richbakercoaching) joins us to discuss the three essential rules for mogwai care as we revisit 1984's "Gremlins", a classic tale of overpopulation that seamlessly blends horror, comedy, sci-fi, and Christmas.

If you want to take an online improv class from Rich, go to www.daretofailimprov.com (first class is free!).

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

For extra info, check out this video chronicling easter eggs throughout the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDppBHOpkmM

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
Gremlins Theme (Jerry Goldsmith)
Pigs is Pigs (Oliver Wallace)
Gizmo's Theme (Jerry Goldsmith)
Heigh Ho (Frank Churchill / Larry Morey)
After Midnight (Eric Clapton)

The Simpsons: Treehouse of Horror

Doug Lief — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0700

Sure ye can handle a dead tongue, but can ye handle TWO live ones? Snorky talk Man as we close out our Halloween run with a special episode about the Simpsons' Halloween specials, with special guest Amy Baum. Special!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
The Simpsons Theme - Danny Elfman
All other musical credits from The Simpsons score by Alf Clausen.

The Fly

Doug Lief — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0700

Be afraid... Be very afraid... of a twisted fusion of sci-fi horror and romance, as well as man and insect. David Cronenberg's body horror masterpiece haunts not only for its viscerally upsetting imagery, but because that imagery is paired with strong characters and profound metaphysical questions.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram in particular since that's where we post bonus content.

Musical Credits:

Intro - Dark Flute (Jim Guthrie)
All score from The Fly by Howard Shore
Outro music from The Simpsons by Alf Clausen