In this year's edition of the annual Summer Slash horror fest, aptly titled Summer Slash 666, host and comedian Johnny Spoiler takes listeners on a deep dive into the unsettling world of religious horror films. We explored the eerie and provocative themes found in these movies, delivering sharp reviews and candid reactions to a selection of cult classics and hidden gems.
Our journey began with Starry Eyes, a chilling tale of ambition and occultism in Hollywood, where aspiring actress Sarah’s path to stardom takes a terrifying turn. We then delved into John Carpenter's underrated gem, Prince of Darkness, a film that melds science, faith, and pure cosmic dread. Next, we discussed Unholy (1988), which mixes supernatural suspense with Cold War paranoia.
The exploration continued with The First Power, a supernatural thriller featuring Lou Diamond Phillips as a detective battling a satanic serial killer with the ability to resurrect himself. The discussion reached a peak with The Exorcist III, a masterful blend of psychological horror and demonic possession that remains a worthy sequel to the original Exorcist.
To round out the fest, we analyzed Brian De Palma's Body Double (1984), a voyeuristic thriller that, while not overtly religious, plays with themes of temptation, obsession, and the metaphysical battle between good and evil.
Through humor, insight, and a touch of irreverence, Johnny Spoiler and the Summer Slash crew dissected these films' deeper meanings, leaving no sacred stone unturned. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or just looking to explore the dark side of cinema, Summer Slash 666 offered a thrilling experience that celebrated the horror genre's most provocative corners.
