Scary Spirits Podcast

Celebrate 54 Years of Hammer Horror with a “Bat Blood” Themed Review of “Scars of Dracula“

On November 8th, 1970, Hammer Films released the classic horror film “Scars of Dracula.” To commemorate this milestone, we’re dedicating this week’s episode to a special review of this cult classic. Join your hosts Karen and Greg as they delve into the depths of Dracula’s lair, discussing the film’s enduring legacy and its impact on the horror genre.

But that’s not all! To enhance the experience, they’ll be downing a “Bat Blood” themed shot while they chat. So, grab your favorite vampire-inspired beverage and join us for a chilling journey through the world of Hammer horror.

Here’s what you can expect in this episode:

• A detailed analysis of “Scars of Dracula,” exploring its themes, characters, and visual style.
• A discussion of Sir Christopher Lee’s amount of screen time in the film.
• A lively conversation about our personal experiences with the film and the Hammer horror franchise.
• A special “Bat Blood” cocktail recipe to enjoy while you listen.

Whether you’re a fan of classic horror or just looking for a fun and spooky way to spend an evening, this episode is sure to be a treat. So, tune in and join us as we raise a glass to the 54th anniversary of “Scars of Dracula.”

Bat Blood Shot

• 1 splash of grenadine syrup
• 1 oz of Jagermeister herbal liqueur

Instructions:

1. Line the bottom of the shot glass with grenadine and layer the Jagermeister on top.

   Source: cocktaibuilder.com

A Brief Synopsis: Upon discovering a murdered girl with fang marks on her neck, the farmers of Kleinenberg set Count Dracula’s castle ablaze in the hope of destroying the dreaded vampire. When they return to the village, however, they discover that giant vampire bats have killed all the women and children who were left behind in the church.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• We learn about the wedding traditions of Germany.
• Greg works in a lyric to a song from the rock band KISS.
• As usual in these films there are references made to a Rankin/Bass Christmas special.
• Dr. Karen tells us all about the best way to make a body disappear.
• There is a discussion about Sir Christopher Lee’s contact lenses.
• Dr. Karen tells us about acrophobia.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.

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All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
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Celebrating 36 Years of “They Live“: A Cult Classic Film Analysis with Karen and Greg

On November 4th, 1988, John Carpenter’s cult classic film “They Live” was released to the world. To commemorate this milestone, we’re dedicating this week’s episode to a deep dive into this sci-fi action thriller. Join your hosts Karen and Greg as they dissect the film’s themes, characters, and iconic scenes while sipping on a “Hard Bubblegum Lemonade” themed cocktail.

Episode Highlights:

• In-depth Analysis: We’ll explore the film’s subliminal messaging, social commentary, and action-packed sequences.
• Nostalgic Reminiscences: Greg will share a little of his personal experiences and memories of watching “They Live” way back in the late eighties.
• Cocktail Crafting: We’ll guide you through the creation of a delicious “Hard Bubblegum Lemonade” cocktail to enhance your viewing experience.

“They Live” remains relevant today due to its exploration of media manipulation, consumerism, and the power of critical thinking. Its themes resonate with the challenges we face in our modern world, making it a timeless classic.

Tune in to Our Podcast for a Thrilling and Thought-provoking Discussion!

Don’t miss this opportunity to revisit a beloved film and gain new insights into its enduring impact. Join us on our podcast for a captivating exploration of “They Live” and the enduring legacy of John Carpenter.

Hard Bubblegum Lemonade

• 1 1/2 oz bubblegum vodka
• 3 oz pink lemonade concentrate
• 6 ice cubes
• 6 oz club soda

Instructions:

1. Mix in a tall glass and garnish with a lemon slice or wedge and 2 yellow straws.

   Source: food.com

A Brief Synopsis: Nada, a wanderer without meaning in his life, discovers a pair of sunglasses capable of showing the world the way it truly is. As he walks the streets of Los Angeles, Nada notices that both the media and the government are comprised of subliminal messages meant to keep the population subdued, and that most of the social elite are skull-faced aliens bent on world domination. With this shocking discovery, Nada fights to free humanity from the mind-controlling aliens.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• Karen tells us about the 1963 short story “Eight O’Clock in the Morning” by Ray Nelson that the film is based on.
• We learn a lot about Roderick George Toombs (aka Roddy Piper).
• Karen and Greg share way too much information about the harmonica.
• We learn the possible origins of sunglasses.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

28 Days Later: A Zombie Apocalypse Cocktail Party

To commemorate the 22nd anniversary of its release on November 1st, we’re diving into the terrifying world of Danny Boyle’s 2002 horror classic, “28 Days Later“. Join your hosts, Karen and Greg, as they dissect this iconic zombie film while sipping on a bloodcurdling Zombie Brain Shot cocktail. We’ll delve into the film’s gripping plot, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking special effects. Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or a newcomer to the genre, this episode is sure to leave you breathless.

Zombie Brain Shot

• 1 oz peach schnapps
• 1/4 oz creme de menthe
• 1/2 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 1/4 oz grenadine

Instructions:

1. Fill a double shot glass with peach schnapps, filling shot glass 1/2 way.
2. Add a splash of Creme de Menthe for a green hue.
3. Place a small spoon over top of shot glass, upside down, and pour Baileys over back of spoon so it slides off. Doing this makes Baileys fan out further while pouring, resulting in larger clumps in shot glass. Make a small layer of Baileys, about 1/4 size of shot glass.
4. Holding grenadine bottle a few inches above shot glass, add a few dashes of syrup, trying to aim for bigger clumps of Baileys. Keep an eye on how Baileys is reacting in shot glass to achieve a “zombie brain” look you want.
5. Drink and enjoy (if you dare!)

   Source: homemadehooplah.com

A Brief Synopsis: A group of misguided animal rights activists free a caged chimp infected with the “Rage” virus from a medical research lab. When London bike courier Jim wakes up from a coma a month after, he finds his city all but deserted. On the run from the zombie-like victims of the Rage, Jim stumbles upon a group of survivors, including Selena and cab driver Frank, and joins them on a perilous journey to what he hopes will be safety.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• Dr. Karen tells us all about the drug Valium.
• We get a bit of a geography lesson about London and Manchester in the UK.
• The use of renewable energy is discussed.
• We learn the world’s record for fastest tire change.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

A Haunting Tale: Unraveling the Mysteries of “The Changeling“

Join us for a deep dive into the 1980 horror classic, “The Changeling.” Inspired by a listener request and in celebration of George C. Scott’s birthday, our hosts, Karen and Greg, embark on a chilling exploration of this iconic film.

Discover the tale of a widowed composer who moves into a haunted Victorian mansion. As he uncovers a disturbing secret hidden within its walls, he finds himself entangled in a supernatural mystery.

Join us as we unravel the mysteries and suspense of “The Changeling.” From the haunting performances to the eerie atmosphere, we’ll discuss everything that makes this movie a timeless masterpiece. And don’t forget about the “Snow Drift” cocktail, a listener-suggested drink that perfectly complements the film’s chilling ambiance.

Tune in to discover the hidden depths of this classic horror film and join us for a truly unforgettable listening experience.

Snow Drift Cocktail

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz hazelnut liqueur
• 1 oz vodka
• 3 oz heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
2. Pour through strainer into a martini cordial glass. There should be some ice crystals in the glass and the drink will be light and frothy.
3. To keep cold, drop the glass into another larger cocktail glass filled with ice.

   Source: abc.virginia.gov

A Brief Synopsis: In suburban Seattle, John rents a large, old and eerie Victorian-era mansion and begins piecing his life back together. However, John soon discovers that he has unexpected and unwelcome company in his new home: the unhappy ghost of a murdered young boy.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• Naturally we learn what a changeling is.
• Karen tells us all about the history of stained glass.
• Karen and Greg reminisce about the days when they used to go to the library and look at microfilm.
• The history of the Space Needle in Seattle is discussed.
• We learn the history of photo copying.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

Discover “The Devil’s Rain” on Scary Spirits

Ever wondered what happens when a demonic entity takes over a small town? Join Karen and Greg on this week’s episode of Scary Spirits as they delve into the 1975 horror film, “The Devil’s Rain.” This classic horror film, filled with demonic possession and supernatural terror, is sure to send shivers down your spine.

In this special listener-requested episode, we’ll discuss the film’s plot, characters, and iconic scenes, all while sipping on a devilishly delicious Red Devil cocktail. Don’t miss this chilling exploration of one of horror cinema’s cult classics.

Red Devil Cocktail

• 1 1⁄2 oz vodka
• 1 1⁄2 oz peach schnapps
• 1 1⁄2 oz Southern Comfort
• 1 1⁄2 oz gin
• 2 oz triple sec
• 2 oz orange juice
• grenadine

Instructions:

1. Mix alcohols into an ice-filled cocktail shaker.
2. Add the juice and grenadine, and shake.
3. Serve in a 10-12 oz. glass.

   Source: food.com

A Brief Synopsis: A murdered family’s patriarch seeks revenge upon an Arizona coven that captures souls and worships Satan.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• Greg works in a “Rocky Horror Picture Show” reference.
• We learn a little bit about the “Satanic Panic” of the 1980’s.
• Karen tells us all about Anton Lavey.
• Extra Sensory Perception is discussed.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was so bad that it took us 4 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

Guillermo del Toro’s “Crimson Peak“: A Gothic Thriller Review

Join us for a chilling episode as we delve into the hauntingly beautiful world of Guillermo del Toro’s “Crimson Peak“. To celebrate the legendary director’s birthday on October 9th, we’ve selected this atmospheric 2015 gothic horror film for a deep dive.

Our hosts, Karen and Greg, will guide you through the film’s intricate plot, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters. And to add a touch of spooky flair, we’ll be sipping on a specially crafted Clairvoyant themed cocktail, inspired by the film’s supernatural themes.

Don’t miss this spine-tingling episode! Tune in to hear our in-depth review of “Crimson Peak” and discover why it’s a must-watch for fans of gothic horror and Guillermo del Toro’s cinematic genius.

Clairvoyant Cocktail Recipe

• 1 1/2 oz Olorosa sherry
• 1 1/2 oz Strucchi Dry Vermouth
• 1/2 oz hazelnut liqueur
• 1 dash orange bitters by Angostura

Instructions:

1. Stir all ingredients with ice & fine strain into chilled glass.

   Source: diffordsguide.com

A Brief Synopsis: After marrying the charming and seductive Sir Thomas Sharpe, young Edith finds herself swept away to his remote gothic mansion in the English hills. Also living there is Lady Lucille, Thomas’ alluring sister and protector of her family’s dark secrets. Able to communicate with the dead, Edith tries to decipher the mystery behind the ghostly visions that haunt her new home. As she comes closer to the truth, Edith may learn that true monsters are made of flesh and blood.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• Dr. Karen tells us all about cholera.
• We learn about the hereditary title baronet.
• Did you know that Arthur Conan Doyle was an ophthalmologist?
• Karen tells us about the Papillon dog breed.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was pretty good. It only took us 2 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

Dracula A.D. 1972: A 52nd Anniversary Celebration

Join us for a thrilling journey back in time to 1972! In this special episode, we’re celebrating the 52nd anniversary of the Hammer horror classic, “Dracula A.D. 1972“. Our hosts, Karen and Greg, will dive deep into this iconic film, exploring the acting, its plot, characters, and the impact it had on the horror genre.

But that’s not all! To enhance the experience, they’ll be sipping on a specially crafted cocktail inspired by the film, the “Dracula’s Kiss.” So grab your favorite vampire-inspired beverage, settle in, and get ready for a chilling adventure into the groovy world of Dracula. Don’t miss this must-listen episode for fans of horror, classic films, and cocktails alike!

Dracula’s Kiss Cocktail

• 1 oz black cherry vodka
• 1/2 oz grenadine
• cola
• maraschino cherries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Coat the bottom of a your glass with grenadine.
2. Add ice and vodka.
3. Fill with cola.
4. Garnish with cherries.

   Source: ahealthylifeforme.com

A Brief Synopsis: Van Helsing despatches Dracula to his grave, only for the dark lord to be reborn in 1972. When the swinging trendies of London decide to experiment with a little devil-worshipping, the Count decides to move to his own bloody groove.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• We learn the history of double decker buses.
• Karen tells us all about Belphagor and several other demons.
• Greg makes a reference to Sudsy Malone’s, a combination bar/laundromat that used to be in Cincinnati.
• Our hosts discuss the Newton’s Cradle toy.
• Greg quizzes Karen about the 1968 Form Mustang convertible and the 1971 Citroën Dyane.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was so bad that it took us 4 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

Chucky’s 73rd: A “Child’s Play” Retrospective

Mark Hamill’s iconic voice in the “Child’s Play” remake and his 73rd birthday on September 25th inspired us to revisit the original 1988 horror classic. Join our hosts for a deep dive into the film that introduced the murderous doll, Chucky.

To make the episode even more terrifying, we’ll be sipping on a special “Chucky’s Massacre” themed cocktail. Tune in to hear our in-depth analysis and enjoy a frightfully good time! Don’t miss this chilling episode!

Chucky’s Massacre Cocktail

• sparkling wine
• 20mls of gin
• 25mls coconut milk
• 20mls ginger syrup
• squirty cream
• cinnamon
• gingernut biscuits

Instructions:

1. Combine gin, coconut milk and ginger syrup in a glass.
2. Top off with sparkling wine.
3. Add squirty cream to top and finish by sprinkling cinnamon and adding a gingernut biscuit.

   Source: glassofbubbly.com

A Brief Synopsis: Gunned down by Detective Mike Norris, dying murderer Charles Lee Ray uses black magic to put his soul inside a doll named Chucky — which Karen Barclay then buys for her young son, Andy. When Chucky kills Andy’s baby sitter, the boy realizes the doll is alive and tries to warn people, but he’s institutionalized. Now Karen must convince the detective of the murderous doll’s intentions, before Andy becomes Chucky’s next victim.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• The origination of the Chucky doll is discussed.
• References are made to Cabbage Patch Kids.
• The film “Donovan’s Brain” is featured.
• Karen gives us a brief history of killer doll movies.
• Voodoo, the Damballa Chant and greegree charms are discussed.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

Mummy Mayhem: A 65th Anniversary Celebration of “The Mummy” (1959)

Join us for a thrilling journey back in time to 1959 as we commemorate the 65th anniversary of the iconic Hammer horror film, “The Mummy“. In this special episode, our hosts, Karen and Greg, delve into the depths of this classic tale of ancient Egyptian resurrection.

From the chilling performance of Peter Cushing to the iconic mummy makeup, we’ll discuss everything that makes The Mummy a timeless horror masterpiece. To enhance the experience, tune in as Karen and Greg sip on a specially crafted “The Mummy” cocktail, inspired by the film’s eerie atmosphere. Don’t miss this opportunity to revisit a horror masterpiece and discover new insights into its enduring appeal.

The Mummy Cocktail

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz triple sec
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• club soda (or clear soda)

Instructions:

1. Mix vodka, triple sec, and lemon juice in an old-fashioned glass half-filled with ice.
2. Top off with club soda. Stir.

   Source: cocktailbuilder.com

A Brief Synopsis: An archaeology team discover the tomb of an Egyptian princess, guarded by an undead mummy who will avenge all who desecrate the site.

Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:

• Karen tells us about the importance of the scarab beetle.
• We learn about the curse of the pharaohs.
• The Temple of Karnak is discussed.
• Greg makes a reference to former host of the Tonight Show, Johnny Carson.
• We learn all about bogs.

Our rating of the film:

This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
• Follow @ScarySpiritsPod

Questions, comments or suggestions?

Shoot us an email at [email protected]

As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.

Monster Comedy Madness: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at “Notzilla“

Get ready for a hilarious and informative dive into the world of monster comedies! In this special episode of Scary Spirits Reviews, our hosts sit down with Brendan Vennemeyer, a crew member of the 2019 film “Notzilla.” Join us as we explore the behind-the-scenes magic that went into creating this monstrously funny movie.

Brendan shares exclusive insights into the filmmaking process, discussing the challenges and triumphs of bringing “Notzilla” to life. Discover how Brendan’s experience working on “Notzilla” led him to other exciting projects, including the highly anticipated “Superman” movie directed by James Gunn. Get valuable insights and tips from Brendan on breaking into the film industry if you’re aspiring to pursue a career in the arts.

Whether you’re a fan of monster movies, comedies, or simply love hearing about the filmmaking industry, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss this special episode filled with laughter, movie trivia, and expert advice. Tune in now to Scary Spirits Reviews and immerse yourself in the world of “Notzilla.”

Take our online survey!

We want to know more about you! Please take our survey. All questions are optional and you can remain completely anonymous if you prefer. Tell us what you like or would like to hear more of!

All music on the Scary Spirits Podcast is provided by the band “Verse 13”. Please check them out. You can listen to all their music on their Bandcamp page.

Get social with us!

• Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube to watch Greg attempt to make all the featured cocktails
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Questions, comments or suggestions?

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As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases through our links.