Shadows on the Sound is a (usually) weekly podcast hosted by myself and supernatural thriller writer Camela Thompson. Our goal is to discuss classic and contemporary portrayals of supernatural and mythological beings, and what their stories tell us about society. Of course, we often end up spending our time geeking out about movies, video games, and the work of Joss Whedon and Guillermo Del Toro...but we hope you like it anyway! Listening is free, just follow the links below or search for us on iTunes. And, as always, we'd love to hear from you--if you comment, we will answer!
Episode 27: Food - the Forbidden and the Fantastical!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-27-food-the-fantastical-and-forbidden
Warning: Adult Language
With the United States coming up on its annual Thanksgiving holiday, it seemed like a good time to fous on food! Starting with ancient mythology and religious symbolism, Camela and Z.D. eventually work up to contemporary symbolism and usage.
The Weekly Geeky Query: If you could share a meal with any fictional character, who would it be, and what would you eat?
Episode 26: The X-Files
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-26-the-x-files
Warning: The cohosts got a little enthusiastic with the adult language this time. This week's mantra: Why have an explicit rating if you don't use it?
With an X-Files mini-series around the corner, how could Shadows on the Sound resist? Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone were joined by one of Z.D.'s college friends and the woman who introduced her to The X-Files. Camela had been sneaking around her parents to watch the show many years beforehand, and couldn't wait to geek out on her favorite episodes. All expressed their feelings for the movies and hopes for future episodes. What do you hope they accomplish or avoid?
The Weekly Geeky Query: What is your number one sci-fi pet peeve?
Episode 25: Phobias!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-25-phobias
Warning: Adult Language.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone talk phobias in real life and as a motivator in fiction. Horror movies play off our natural fear of death, but the best weave in other common phobias that people can relate to. Stephen King's Cujo (cynophobia), old classics like Tarantula (arachnophobia), and Vertigo (acrophobia) all capitalize on well known fears. Movies like The Blair Witch Project combine several phobias (agoraphobia, nyctophobia, and xylophobia) into one big fear fest. When asked to come up with a list of movies that used common things not associated with phobias, Camela realized that while she may not fear the items, the objects were listed in phobias (mirrors - spectrophobia, dolls - pediophobia, flowers - anthophobia).
The most entertaining piece was probably when Z.D. and Camela revealed their personal phobias.
This week's geeky query: Have you been in a haunted location? If so, did you see anything spooky?
Episode 24: The Haunting of Hill House
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-24-the-haunting-of-hill-house
Warning: Adult Language.
The S.O.S. Monthly Book Club discusses Shirley Jacksons' horror classic: The Haunting of Hill House! There's a reason this novel has inspired so many movies and spin-offs. The supernatural phenomenon in this book keeps taking the reader off-guard, and - as Camela and Z.D. discover in their conversation - open to many different interpretations!
The Weekly Geeky Query: If you were to write your own horror story, where would you choose for a setting?
Episode 23: Halloween!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-23-halloween
Warning: Some adult language and content.
Halloween is fast approaching and it's Z.D. Gladstone's favorite holiday. How could we pass up an opportunity to discuss favorite costumes, spooky traditions, and food? Camela Thompson reveals that she doesn't get into the Halloween spirit, but that's probably because she embraces the macabre and paranormal all year round. The co-hosts recommend movies, books, videogames, and even recipes to make your holiday less tricky, and more of a treat!
This week's geeky query: If you could morph into any of your costumes, which character would you be?
Episode 22: Anime series "Ghost Hunt!"
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-22-ghost-hunt
Warning: Adult language and SPOILERS!
Resident anime expert Carly Taylor joins Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone once again to discuss the anime series "Ghost Hunt." This show features a blend of spiritual experts of differing backgrounds facing off against the spectral and spooky. The cohosts found it lacking in some respects, but got hooked by the unearthl mysteries, and intrigued by the plethora of Japanese ghost lore. It was a perfect choice for the month leading up to Halloween!
This week's geeky query: Which supernatural creature do you feel most equipped to face off with?
Episode 21: Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein"
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-21-frankenstein
Note from Camela Thompson: This episode was recorded in a timely manner, but not posted as promised. Apologies!
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone review the September book of the month: Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley. Writing styles have changed dramatically over the years, but Shelley's themes and philosophical questions have proven timeless. Both cohosts also note the book has very little to do with the classic movie portrayals. (Where did Igor come from, anyway?) Have you read the book? What did you think?
Episode 20: A.I.'s that Want to Kill Us All!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-20-evil-ai
Warning: Adult language.
There was a gaggle of geeks this week on Shadows on the Sound! Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone were joined by Michael G. Munz and a technical guru who wishes to be known as Archangel. Our topic: Artificial Intelligences--mostly the evil AIs. We look at the benevolent, the malicious, the apathetic, and the attractive. We were hard pressed to give an "ugly" example.
Our Weekly Geeky Query: Would you rather be controlled by a benevolent AI or would you rather be in charge of reforming a malevolent AI?
Next week's episode: The review of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
Episode 19: Resident Evil: The Debate
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-19-resident-evil-debate
Warning: Adult language.
Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson are joined by video game reviewer and enthusiast, Brandon Erickson, to look at the Resident Evil franchise. They did their best to look at each of the mediums and analyze them based on their own merit. It wasn't much of a contest.
Also the beginning of our Weekly Geeky Query! Comment on the most recent blog post to share your opinions!
Episode 18: Seances
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-18-seances
Warning: This episode contains some adult language.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone look at the history of seances, primarily the rise of the Spiritualist movement in the mid-19th century. They discuss famous mediums (both fraudulent and sincere) and tricks of the trade (old and new). Whatever your view, it's a classic tool for composing fiction!
September's book club choice is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Read along and let us know what you think!
Episode 17: First SOS Book Club Session, "Every Day"
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-17-august-book-club-every-day
Warning: Adult language, and some book spoilers.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone review the August Shadows on the Sound book club selection: Every Day by David Levithan. 'A' is a being who moves from one person to another each day. What does this have in common with mythology? A lot, as it turns out.
September's book club choice is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Read along and let us know what you think!
Episode 16: Death Note
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-16-death-note
Warning: Intended for audiences over the age of 18. There is explicit language--and also spoilers!
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone are joined by anime enthusiast and cos-play contestant Carly Taylor to discuss the Japanese paranormal thriller phenomenon: Death Note. This anime series features the Shinigami, an eccentric genius, and a crazed megalomaniac intent on becoming a god of vengeance. We not only look at the mythology behind the series, but delve into where it began and some of its offshoots.
Episode 15: Killing the Undead
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-15-killing-the-undead
Do you have what it takes to send the forces of darkness back to whatever hellhole they oozed out of? Z.D. Gladstone
and Camela Thompson look at the many undead creatures of the world and
the tools needed to kill them: from silver to lead, garlic to peach wood, and the universality of a good cleansing flame!
And, you know, video games get mentioned.
Episode 14: Fridging and Red Shirts
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-14-fridging-vs-red-shirts
This week's episode has less to do with the paranormal and more to do
with the themes we often see in paranormal, fantasy, and Sci Fi writing,
movies, and comic books. Our special guest, Michael G. Munz. joined Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone
to discuss Fridging and Red Shirts. They look at the definitions,
illustrate with several examples, and explain the drawbacks and benefits
to both.
Fridging is a technique writers use to motivate a protagonist. A person or group of people close to the protagonist are brutalized in a public manner, meant to motivate the protagonist into action.
The term "red shirt" comes from Star Trek. A minor character with little or zero tie to the protagonist is killed to alert the audience to a presence of a malevolent force. They are often killed in a way that hints at the capabilities of the killer (is it a monster? how does he/she kill? etc.).
Episode 13: Paranormal for Younger Audiences
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-13-adapting-the-paranormal-for-young-audiences
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone
discuss their own childhood favorites from early readers to YA.
Paranormal has been a part of our culture since the beginning of time,
and it is interesting to see the lengths that writers (for the big
screen or books) go to make their interpretations kid friendly. The
cohosts also take a look at what modern authors do to differentiate
their material for their intended audiences.
As always, we would love to hear from you. If you have any suggestions or feedback, please leave us a comment.
Episode 12: Music That Moves Us to Shivers
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-12-music-in-movies
Amy Rakowczyk
joined Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson to discuss the impact of music
in film. They look at classic horror themes and what makes an enjoyable
movie experience.
Note: Camela Thompson mentioned a movie score in The Mirror. While she stands by her feelings about the movie, she acknowledges there isn't a music score. She had watched a lot of bad horror in a short amount of time and will update this post when she figures out which movie she was recalling (she has it narrowed down to Alien Uprising or Extraterrestrial).
Episode 11: The Challenges of Writing the Paranormal
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-11-the-challenges-of-writing-paranormal
Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson cover a topic at the forefront of
their minds: Writing! Both have several projects they are working on and
were happy to have the chance to talk about their passion. Pet peeves
as a reader, things to avoid as a writer, and successful examples of
exceptions were all discussed.
As always, we would love to hear what you thought of this topic. If you have any feedback, suggestions, or would like to be a featured guest on our podcast, please use the Contact tab, comments, or little mail icon at the top right of this page to reach out to us. We love featuring artists, musicians, and writers who share our love for all things mythological and paranormal.
Episode 10: Movie Reviews
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-10-movie-review-of-insidious-tucker-dale-and-big-ass-spider
Warning: There are adult themes and language in this podcast.
This week Camela Thompson is joined by Lance Thompson and Dr. Steve Matthewson to discuss horror movies (Z.D. passed on this one, because she is, as she has so often expressed, way too f@*$!%& wimpy to watch scary flicks). Their assignment was to watch Insidious, Insidious: Chapter 2, Tucker & Dale vs. Evil, and Big Ass Spider. Because of the array of movies covered, they discuss many more films, the tropes in horror, and why we are drawn to fear.
Episode 9: Demons and Ghosts
(or, as I like to call it: "Let's Get Spiritual!")
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-9-ghosts-and-demons
Warning: This podcast contains adult language and themes
Z.D. and Camela delve into an area that may be fiction or not, depending on who you ask: possession by ghosts or demons. Joined by Father Les Carpenter of the Episcopal Church, they discuss manifestations of evil, whether of the Hollywood variety, or real corruption in power and negative social phenomenon. Racism was used as an example, and the cohosts found the argument very interesting. Camela discusses the haunting of the house where she grew up, Z.D. talks about binge reading "The Exorcist," and Les makes an impassioned appeal for why ALL Christians should celebrate Halloween.
Episode 8: Dracula
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-8-dracula
Warning: This podcast contains adult content and language.
After dancing around Bram Stoker's Dracula for weeks, Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson delve into Stoker's novel and several of the movies the book influenced. Horror from the Victorian and Edwardian eras had a strong contrast of beauty and fear, and not all of the successive films reflected this dichotomy. We look at the historical view of women, strangers, and monsters and how they have evolved over time. A viewpoint on why Gary Oldman's character was the most relatable Dracula--outside of his considerable acting talent--is also offered.
Have a Dracula influenced film we have not covered or local myths and urban legends you would like broadcasted? Send them our way through the comments or Contact links on this website. We'd love to hear from you.
Episode 7: Hellsing: Ultimate
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-7-hellsing-ultimate
Warning: This podcast contains adult content and language.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone discuss Hellsing Ultimate, a Japanese animation series with virgin vampires, rogue Nazis, and zealot Catholic armies. In the tradition of anime, the characters have dramatic and involved backstories. The heroes are flawed, the villains are plentiful, and everyone has a shootout. The mythology strikes close to Bram Stoker's Dracula with some very unique twists and turns. Both podcast co-hosts had a hard time recalling any other movie, television series, or book with such an epic body count.
Episode 6: Vampires in Videogames
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-6-vampires-in-videogames
Warning: This podcast contains some adult language.
This week we invited Brandon Erickson, video game reviewer and world record holder, to discuss vampires in video games: the good, the bad, and the utterly ridiculous. We talked about the evolution of game play, and the use of paranormal characters as protagonists and villains. As with all things geeky, opinions are strong, and there was some debate involved.
One of our debates involved the Resident Evil video games vs. movies. If you have a strong opinion about the movies or video games (one is better, they both are awesome, they both suck), we want to hear it! You can contact Z.D. by commenting on this post, or email her directly: zdgladstone (at) gmail. Email segments may be read on our podcast, and if your argument strikes us as particularly brilliant, we may invite you to be a guest on our show! The deadline for contributions for this topic is August 15, 2015.
Episode 5: For the Love of Werewolves
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-5-for-the-love-of-werewolves
Warning: This podcast contains some adult content.
Professional author and editor Patricia D. Eddy joins Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone once again to discuss one of the most popular paranormal archetypes of all time: the Werewolf. We look at the origins and variations of the myth, as well as geek out about our favorite modern adaptation (and I, Z.D., mistakenly say that Oz was transformed by a bite from a nephew, when in fact he was bitten by a cousin--sorry about that, Joss).
Episode 4: Greek Mythology in Pop Culture
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-four-greek-mythology-in-pop-culture
Warning: This podcast was intended for mature audiences only.
Michael G. Munz joined Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson to discuss Greek mythology and how it still makes its presence known today. Somehow they managed to tie in tattoos, books, movies, television shows, and pandas. No really. Pandas.
Episode 3: Contemporary and Classic Fairy Tales
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-three-contemporary-fairy-tales
Warning: There is some adult language. Listen at your own discretion.
Author Sheri Williams joins Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson this week to discuss fairy tales. They look at the oral history, Grimm, and other historical renditions before delving into the more modern interpretations and what they say about society at the time of rendering. Perhaps the state of our culture at the time of development is more to blame than the individuals pushing the product. After all, we're taught to cater to our audiences.
Episode 2: Vampire Sexuality
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-two-vampire-sexuality
Warning: This episode contains adult language and should not be played by or in the earshot of people under the age of 18.
Patricia D. Eddy joins Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson to discuss vampire sexuality, including which ones are capable of sex (both dead and alive), and who's too kinky for our preferences. We also get into things we find strange, things to avoid, and a few of our favorite steamy series.
NOTE: An interview of del Toro is brought up in this podcast, including a paraphrased quote. The original interview with supernatural film genius Del Toro can be found here. Opinions stated in the podcast were based on the assumption that the article was legitimate.
Episode 1: Vampire Knight
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-27-food-the-fantastical-and-forbidden
With the United States coming up on its annual Thanksgiving holiday, it seemed like a good time to fous on food! Starting with ancient mythology and religious symbolism, Camela and Z.D. eventually work up to contemporary symbolism and usage.
The Weekly Geeky Query: If you could share a meal with any fictional character, who would it be, and what would you eat?
Episode 26: The X-Files
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-26-the-x-files
Warning: The cohosts got a little enthusiastic with the adult language this time. This week's mantra: Why have an explicit rating if you don't use it?
With an X-Files mini-series around the corner, how could Shadows on the Sound resist? Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone were joined by one of Z.D.'s college friends and the woman who introduced her to The X-Files. Camela had been sneaking around her parents to watch the show many years beforehand, and couldn't wait to geek out on her favorite episodes. All expressed their feelings for the movies and hopes for future episodes. What do you hope they accomplish or avoid?
The Weekly Geeky Query: What is your number one sci-fi pet peeve?
Episode 25: Phobias!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-25-phobias
Warning: Adult Language.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone talk phobias in real life and as a motivator in fiction. Horror movies play off our natural fear of death, but the best weave in other common phobias that people can relate to. Stephen King's Cujo (cynophobia), old classics like Tarantula (arachnophobia), and Vertigo (acrophobia) all capitalize on well known fears. Movies like The Blair Witch Project combine several phobias (agoraphobia, nyctophobia, and xylophobia) into one big fear fest. When asked to come up with a list of movies that used common things not associated with phobias, Camela realized that while she may not fear the items, the objects were listed in phobias (mirrors - spectrophobia, dolls - pediophobia, flowers - anthophobia).
The most entertaining piece was probably when Z.D. and Camela revealed their personal phobias.
This week's geeky query: Have you been in a haunted location? If so, did you see anything spooky?
Episode 24: The Haunting of Hill House
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-24-the-haunting-of-hill-house
Warning: Adult Language.
The S.O.S. Monthly Book Club discusses Shirley Jacksons' horror classic: The Haunting of Hill House! There's a reason this novel has inspired so many movies and spin-offs. The supernatural phenomenon in this book keeps taking the reader off-guard, and - as Camela and Z.D. discover in their conversation - open to many different interpretations!
The Weekly Geeky Query: If you were to write your own horror story, where would you choose for a setting?
Episode 23: Halloween!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-23-halloween
Warning: Some adult language and content.
Halloween is fast approaching and it's Z.D. Gladstone's favorite holiday. How could we pass up an opportunity to discuss favorite costumes, spooky traditions, and food? Camela Thompson reveals that she doesn't get into the Halloween spirit, but that's probably because she embraces the macabre and paranormal all year round. The co-hosts recommend movies, books, videogames, and even recipes to make your holiday less tricky, and more of a treat!
This week's geeky query: If you could morph into any of your costumes, which character would you be?
Episode 22: Anime series "Ghost Hunt!"
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-22-ghost-hunt
Warning: Adult language and SPOILERS!
Resident anime expert Carly Taylor joins Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone once again to discuss the anime series "Ghost Hunt." This show features a blend of spiritual experts of differing backgrounds facing off against the spectral and spooky. The cohosts found it lacking in some respects, but got hooked by the unearthl mysteries, and intrigued by the plethora of Japanese ghost lore. It was a perfect choice for the month leading up to Halloween!
This week's geeky query: Which supernatural creature do you feel most equipped to face off with?
Episode 21: Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein"
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-21-frankenstein
Note from Camela Thompson: This episode was recorded in a timely manner, but not posted as promised. Apologies!
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone review the September book of the month: Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley. Writing styles have changed dramatically over the years, but Shelley's themes and philosophical questions have proven timeless. Both cohosts also note the book has very little to do with the classic movie portrayals. (Where did Igor come from, anyway?) Have you read the book? What did you think?
Episode 20: A.I.'s that Want to Kill Us All!
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-20-evil-ai
Warning: Adult language.
There was a gaggle of geeks this week on Shadows on the Sound! Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone were joined by Michael G. Munz and a technical guru who wishes to be known as Archangel. Our topic: Artificial Intelligences--mostly the evil AIs. We look at the benevolent, the malicious, the apathetic, and the attractive. We were hard pressed to give an "ugly" example.
Our Weekly Geeky Query: Would you rather be controlled by a benevolent AI or would you rather be in charge of reforming a malevolent AI?
Next week's episode: The review of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.
Episode 19: Resident Evil: The Debate
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-19-resident-evil-debate
Warning: Adult language.
Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson are joined by video game reviewer and enthusiast, Brandon Erickson, to look at the Resident Evil franchise. They did their best to look at each of the mediums and analyze them based on their own merit. It wasn't much of a contest.
Also the beginning of our Weekly Geeky Query! Comment on the most recent blog post to share your opinions!
Episode 18: Seances
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-18-seances
Warning: This episode contains some adult language.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone look at the history of seances, primarily the rise of the Spiritualist movement in the mid-19th century. They discuss famous mediums (both fraudulent and sincere) and tricks of the trade (old and new). Whatever your view, it's a classic tool for composing fiction!
September's book club choice is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Read along and let us know what you think!
Episode 17: First SOS Book Club Session, "Every Day"
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-17-august-book-club-every-day
Warning: Adult language, and some book spoilers.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone review the August Shadows on the Sound book club selection: Every Day by David Levithan. 'A' is a being who moves from one person to another each day. What does this have in common with mythology? A lot, as it turns out.
September's book club choice is Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Read along and let us know what you think!
Episode 16: Death Note
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-16-death-note
Warning: Intended for audiences over the age of 18. There is explicit language--and also spoilers!
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone are joined by anime enthusiast and cos-play contestant Carly Taylor to discuss the Japanese paranormal thriller phenomenon: Death Note. This anime series features the Shinigami, an eccentric genius, and a crazed megalomaniac intent on becoming a god of vengeance. We not only look at the mythology behind the series, but delve into where it began and some of its offshoots.
Episode 15: Killing the Undead
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-15-killing-the-undead
And, you know, video games get mentioned.
Episode 14: Fridging and Red Shirts
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-14-fridging-vs-red-shirts
Fridging is a technique writers use to motivate a protagonist. A person or group of people close to the protagonist are brutalized in a public manner, meant to motivate the protagonist into action.
The term "red shirt" comes from Star Trek. A minor character with little or zero tie to the protagonist is killed to alert the audience to a presence of a malevolent force. They are often killed in a way that hints at the capabilities of the killer (is it a monster? how does he/she kill? etc.).
Episode 13: Paranormal for Younger Audiences
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-13-adapting-the-paranormal-for-young-audiences
As always, we would love to hear from you. If you have any suggestions or feedback, please leave us a comment.
Episode 12: Music That Moves Us to Shivers
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-12-music-in-movies
Note: Camela Thompson mentioned a movie score in The Mirror. While she stands by her feelings about the movie, she acknowledges there isn't a music score. She had watched a lot of bad horror in a short amount of time and will update this post when she figures out which movie she was recalling (she has it narrowed down to Alien Uprising or Extraterrestrial).
Episode 11: The Challenges of Writing the Paranormal
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-11-the-challenges-of-writing-paranormal
As always, we would love to hear what you thought of this topic. If you have any feedback, suggestions, or would like to be a featured guest on our podcast, please use the Contact tab, comments, or little mail icon at the top right of this page to reach out to us. We love featuring artists, musicians, and writers who share our love for all things mythological and paranormal.
Episode 10: Movie Reviews
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-10-movie-review-of-insidious-tucker-dale-and-big-ass-spider
 |
| The only way Z.D. will watch anything even vaguely frightening. |
Warning: There are adult themes and language in this podcast.
This week Camela Thompson is joined by Lance Thompson and Dr. Steve Matthewson to discuss horror movies (Z.D. passed on this one, because she is, as she has so often expressed, way too f@*$!%& wimpy to watch scary flicks). Their assignment was to watch Insidious, Insidious: Chapter 2, Tucker & Dale vs. Evil, and Big Ass Spider. Because of the array of movies covered, they discuss many more films, the tropes in horror, and why we are drawn to fear.
Episode 9: Demons and Ghosts
(or, as I like to call it: "Let's Get Spiritual!")
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-9-ghosts-and-demons
Z.D. and Camela delve into an area that may be fiction or not, depending on who you ask: possession by ghosts or demons. Joined by Father Les Carpenter of the Episcopal Church, they discuss manifestations of evil, whether of the Hollywood variety, or real corruption in power and negative social phenomenon. Racism was used as an example, and the cohosts found the argument very interesting. Camela discusses the haunting of the house where she grew up, Z.D. talks about binge reading "The Exorcist," and Les makes an impassioned appeal for why ALL Christians should celebrate Halloween.
Episode 8: Dracula
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-8-dracula
Warning: This podcast contains adult content and language.
After dancing around Bram Stoker's Dracula for weeks, Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson delve into Stoker's novel and several of the movies the book influenced. Horror from the Victorian and Edwardian eras had a strong contrast of beauty and fear, and not all of the successive films reflected this dichotomy. We look at the historical view of women, strangers, and monsters and how they have evolved over time. A viewpoint on why Gary Oldman's character was the most relatable Dracula--outside of his considerable acting talent--is also offered.
Have a Dracula influenced film we have not covered or local myths and urban legends you would like broadcasted? Send them our way through the comments or Contact links on this website. We'd love to hear from you.
Episode 7: Hellsing: Ultimate
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-7-hellsing-ultimate
Warning: This podcast contains adult content and language.
Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone discuss Hellsing Ultimate, a Japanese animation series with virgin vampires, rogue Nazis, and zealot Catholic armies. In the tradition of anime, the characters have dramatic and involved backstories. The heroes are flawed, the villains are plentiful, and everyone has a shootout. The mythology strikes close to Bram Stoker's Dracula with some very unique twists and turns. Both podcast co-hosts had a hard time recalling any other movie, television series, or book with such an epic body count.
Episode 6: Vampires in Videogames
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-6-vampires-in-videogames
Warning: This podcast contains some adult language.
This week we invited Brandon Erickson, video game reviewer and world record holder, to discuss vampires in video games: the good, the bad, and the utterly ridiculous. We talked about the evolution of game play, and the use of paranormal characters as protagonists and villains. As with all things geeky, opinions are strong, and there was some debate involved.
One of our debates involved the Resident Evil video games vs. movies. If you have a strong opinion about the movies or video games (one is better, they both are awesome, they both suck), we want to hear it! You can contact Z.D. by commenting on this post, or email her directly: zdgladstone (at) gmail. Email segments may be read on our podcast, and if your argument strikes us as particularly brilliant, we may invite you to be a guest on our show! The deadline for contributions for this topic is August 15, 2015.
Episode 5: For the Love of Werewolves
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-5-for-the-love-of-werewolves
Warning: This podcast contains some adult content.
Professional author and editor Patricia D. Eddy joins Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone once again to discuss one of the most popular paranormal archetypes of all time: the Werewolf. We look at the origins and variations of the myth, as well as geek out about our favorite modern adaptation (and I, Z.D., mistakenly say that Oz was transformed by a bite from a nephew, when in fact he was bitten by a cousin--sorry about that, Joss).
Episode 4: Greek Mythology in Pop Culture
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-four-greek-mythology-in-pop-culture
Michael G. Munz joined Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson to discuss Greek mythology and how it still makes its presence known today. Somehow they managed to tie in tattoos, books, movies, television shows, and pandas. No really. Pandas.
Episode 3: Contemporary and Classic Fairy Tales
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-three-contemporary-fairy-tales
Author Sheri Williams joins Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson this week to discuss fairy tales. They look at the oral history, Grimm, and other historical renditions before delving into the more modern interpretations and what they say about society at the time of rendering. Perhaps the state of our culture at the time of development is more to blame than the individuals pushing the product. After all, we're taught to cater to our audiences.
Episode 2: Vampire Sexuality
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-two-vampire-sexuality
Warning: This episode contains adult language and should not be played by or in the earshot of people under the age of 18.
Patricia D. Eddy joins Z.D. Gladstone and Camela Thompson to discuss vampire sexuality, including which ones are capable of sex (both dead and alive), and who's too kinky for our preferences. We also get into things we find strange, things to avoid, and a few of our favorite steamy series.
NOTE: An interview of del Toro is brought up in this podcast, including a paraphrased quote. The original interview with supernatural film genius Del Toro can be found here. Opinions stated in the podcast were based on the assumption that the article was legitimate.
Episode 1: Vampire Knight
http://www.camelathompson.com/sos-podcast/episode-one-vampire-knight
Writer's and self-proclaimed geeks Camela Thompson and Z.D. Gladstone kick off their new podcast by geeking about the anime series "Vampire Knight." Hear Z.D. school the anime-newbie Camela on the symbolism and cultural over-tones in what is basically a teen-fetish cartoon, while Camela proves her prowess on all things vampire culture.
