Winnie’s Wonders: Queen of Horror & The Witch of Kings Cross

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It’s all about the ladies this time. Notice I didn’t say this week because I’ve kinda given up on posting that frequently.

And speaking of ladies, I completed a new drawing in my Ladies of Horror series in Patrick Nagel style. In case you didn’t recognize her, this is Barbara Steele, an iconic figure in horror cinema, celebrated for her striking beauty and captivating screen presence. In Black Sunday (1960), directed by Mario Bava, Steele delivers a mesmerizing dual performance as Princess Asa Vajda, a vengeful witch, and Katia Vajda, her innocent descendant. Steele’s portrayal of Asa is chilling, as she seamlessly embodies malevolence and seduction, making her an unforgettable figure in gothic horror. Her haunting expressions and otherworldly charisma elevated the film, solidifying it as a classic and earning her the title of the “Queen of Horror.”

On to the documentary The Witch of Kings Cross, and it’s an absolute must-watch for anyone who loves stories about fearless artists who challenge societal norms. This documentary dives deep into the life and art of Rosaleen Norton, a groundbreaking Australian artist and occultist who defied the conservative values of 1950s Sydney. It’s not just a film—it’s a portal into a world of creativity, controversy, and unapologetic individuality, especially of the feminine kind.

Rosaleen Norton was no ordinary artist. Dubbed the “Witch of Kings Cross,” she fearlessly explored themes of pagan gods, demons, and sexuality in her work, challenging the rigid moral and religious expectations of her era. Her art, often compared to the work of British occultist Austin Osman Spare, is breathtakingly intricate and deeply evocative. The film does an exceptional job of showcasing her paintings, giving viewers a chance to appreciate her genius in the midst of the scandal and censorship that surrounded her.

What sets this documentary apart is its seamless blending of Norton’s artistic vision with her esoteric beliefs. The film highlights how her devotion to the Greek god Pan and her exploration of “night magic” were not mere rebellion but integral to her creative process. Norton’s art wasn’t just about pushing boundaries; it was an extension of her spirituality and her connection to the mystical.

The documentary also sheds light on the harsh censorship and societal backlash Norton faced. In a time when Australia was steeped in conservative values, her art and lifestyle were considered scandalous. Authorities confiscated her work, removed pieces from exhibitions, and even tried to prosecute her for obscenity. But rather than retreat, Norton stood firm, embodying the kind of defiance and authenticity that artists and free spirits today can only admire.

The film itself is a work of art. The visuals, interviews, and narration create an immersive experience that transports you to the bohemian world of Kings Cross in its heyday. The vibrant storytelling not only celebrates Norton’s contributions to art and occultism but also invites viewers to question how society reacts to those who dare to live outside its boundaries.

At its core, The Witch of Kings Cross is a celebration of individuality and creativity. Rosaleen Norton’s story reminds us of the importance of artistic freedom and the courage it takes to remain true to oneself in the face of adversity. Her life is an inspiration to anyone who has ever felt out of step with the world around them.

The Witch of Kings Cross is a captivating documentary that will leave you inspired, enlightened, and in awe of Rosaleen Norton’s resilience and vision. Whether you’re an artist, a lover of the occult, or simply someone fascinated by trailblazers who refuse to conform, this film is a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of creativity. Don’t miss it—it’s a story that deserves to be told and remembered.

I give it a solid 5 out of 5. Definitely don’t miss this one!

Until next time…

Winnie’s Weekly Wonders: Top 10 Christmas Holiday Horror Movies

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The holiday season is upon us, and while most people turn to cheerful classics like Home Alone or Elf, some of us prefer our Christmas cheer with a side of blood. So, here’s a list of some of the best holiday horror movies to watch again.

1. Black Christmas (1974)

Widely regarded as one of the first slasher films, Black Christmas tells the story of a group of sorority sisters terrorized by a mysterious killer during the holidays. Its eerie atmosphere and unsettling phone calls make it a must-watch for horror fans.

2. Gremlins (1984)

This dark comedy horror classic is the perfect mix of cute and creepy. When mischievous creatures wreak havoc on a small town during Christmas, it’s a chaotic reminder to always follow the rules—especially when it comes to holiday pets!

3. Krampus (2015)

A modern holiday horror gem, Krampus is about the ancient Christmas demon who punishes those who lose their festive spirit. The film’s mix of humor, folklore, and frights makes it an instant classic for horror lovers.

4. Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)

In this cult slasher, a young man traumatized by his childhood experiences with Santa takes up the red suit—and an axe. It’s a gory, over-the-top ride that has become a staple of Christmas horror.

5. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)

This Finnish gem reimagines Santa Claus as a dark and terrifying figure unearthed by archeologists. Combining folklore and chills, this movie offers a fresh perspective on holiday horror.

6. Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)

Who says Christmas horror can’t have a little music? This unique blend of horror, comedy, and musical follows Anna and her friends as they fight to survive a zombie apocalypse—set during the holidays. It’s festive, funny, and gory in all the right ways.

7. The Lodge (2019)

The Lodge is a slow-burning psychological horror that takes place during a snowed-in Christmas retreat. With its unsettling atmosphere and shocking twists, it’s a tense addition to your holiday watchlist.

8. P2 (2007)

For those who want a more grounded holiday horror, P2 follows a woman trapped in a parking garage on Christmas Eve, stalked by a deranged security guard. It’s a tense, claustrophobic thriller perfect for those who dread holiday office parties.

9. A Christmas Horror Story (2015)

This anthology film delivers multiple holiday horror tales, including a showdown between Santa Claus and Krampus. It’s a fun, campy option for those who enjoy a variety of scares in one sitting.

10. Dead End (2003)

This underrated gem follows a family on a road trip gone wrong during Christmas Eve. With eerie twists and an unsettling atmosphere, it’s a haunting reminder that sometimes, getting home for the holidays can be the scariest journey of all.

Bonus: Honorable Mention

  • Jack Frost (1997): A campy cult favorite about a killer snowman. It’s so bad it’s good and perfect for a laugh-filled horror night.

These films are perfect for curling up on a chilly winter evening, hot cocoa in hand, with the Christmas lights casting just enough shadow to keep you on edge. Whether you’re a fan of slashers, supernatural scares, or dark comedy, this list has something to make your holiday season delightfully frightful.

Which holiday horror movies are your favorites? Let me know in the comments—I’m always on the lookout for more spooky cheer, so I’ll be in touch with any new holiday horror I find and watch whether they’re good or send me to check my email.

Winnie’s Weekly Wonders: Horns of Horror and a Crying Munster Movie Shame

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Howdy all. Starting with a recent horror collage with a Heaven and Hell theme. Did a few of them you’ll find on Instagram, but this is my favorite, I think.

Anyway, Halloween is fast approaching, and it’s always been my absolute favorite time of year. It brings out my creative side like no other holiday. I love the eerie, otherworldly vibe that comes with it. It’s been so warm in Colorado this year, so it’s been a magical time, sitting on the deck, sipping wine longer than usual in 70-80 degree temperatures. Where I’m going after writing and releasing this post. Unfortunately, we don’t have Halloween decorations on the neighbors’ lawns to enjoy and I don’t decorate anymore, mostly because I’ve gotten very lazy about the holidays in general.

I haven’t watched as many horror movies as I expected, but I did watch a really bad horror comedy recently that totally shocked me. Here are my thoughts about the movie.

The Munsters (2022) Review

I had no expectations going into a viewing of Rob Zombie’s 2022 version of The Munsters, and maybe that was a good thing. While the film shines in its visual presentation, it falls flatter than a pancake in pacing, writing, and overall entertainment value. I wish I could say better things, but…

Sure, it had an impressive set design and a campy Gothic style that kept my eyes glued to the screen. Loved the purple and green colors that gave it an old-style monster movie vibe. But I kept shaking my head at the poor acting, or should I say over acting. I particularly hated Sheri Moon Zombie’s portrayal of Lily Munster, whom I consider being one of early TV’s strongest female characters. The guy that played Herman was a dim-witted caricature of the lovable character from the TV show, but at least Grandpa was entertaining at times.

This movie is WAYYYYY too long. The humor is just off in a bad way. And I won’t even waste my time talking about the poorly developed plot. The movie has a 4.5 on IMDB, and I just don’t get it other than that colorful Gothic atmosphere I mentioned earlier.

Rob Zombie may have had good intentions, but this version of The Munsters turned out to be an opportunity to check my email way too many times. In case you forget, if I’m tempted to check email during a movie, it’s a very bad thing.

That’s all I got for ya! Enjoy your Halloween!

Winnie’s Weekly Wonders: Time to Binge Watch Halloween Movies

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This week, I have some exciting news to share—I’ve officially released The Pumpkin and the Mouse Jinn under my other writer name, Wendy Spurlin. The story has been a labor of love and a long time coming! It blends whimsy, adventure, and a touch of magic. I’ve mentioned previously that this tale that centers around a grumpy pumpkin and a tricky mouse jinn. It’s a story about the consequences of wishes and never being happy. I’m absolutely in love with the mouse, so there’s gotta be another book for him.

Besides that, my annual Halloween movie binge started a few weeks ago with the first 3 Halloween movies, although I’m only talking about the first 2. I don’t have to tell you that the first two Halloween movies (1978 and 1981) are pretty much a continuous story, creating a seamless narrative that feels like one extended film. Halloween (1978), directed by John Carpenter, introduces Michael Myers, who escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown of Haddonfield to stalk and kill babysitters, including Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis). And, of course, the movie ends with Michael being shot by Dr. Loomis (Donald Pleasence) and disappearing after falling from a balcony. Then in Halloween II (1981), it picks up immediately where the first movie leaves off, continuing the same night of terror. Laurie is taken to the hospital, where Michael relentlessly pursues her. Meanwhile, Dr. Loomis remains on Michael’s trail, determined to stop him for good. The second film expands on the story by revealing Laurie’s connection to Michael as his sister. Together, the two films follow a single narrative arc, with Halloween II feeling like the second act of the horror that began in the first film.

These 2 movies are so frequently watched that it seems like a waste of time to redescribe what I’ve seen so many times. Anyway, there’s rich with thematic meaning in the movies as I delve into my love of evil in pop culture. No, they’re not just teen slasher movies as we like to call them.

1. The Nature of Evil

In the first Halloween movie, Michael Myers is portrayed as the embodiment of pure evil. Dr. Loomis describes him as “purely and simply evil,” emphasizing that Michael is more than just a disturbed individual—he is a force of unstoppable, inexplicable malevolence. His lack of motive or reason for his killings makes him more terrifying, suggesting that evil can strike anywhere, without warning, and without a clear cause. Michael’s blank mask further enhances this idea, symbolizing the facelessness and anonymity of evil. He becomes less of a person and more of a supernatural, relentless force, representing the primal fear of the unknown and uncontrollable darkness lurking in society.

2. Survival and Innocence

Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) represents innocence and survival. As the “final girl,” she’s the lone character who faces off against Michael and manages to survive, thanks to her resourcefulness, intelligence, and strong will. Her character can be seen as a symbol of purity and resilience in the face of chaos and violence.

Throughout the film, there’s a contrast between the carefree, hedonistic teenagers who fall victim to Michael and Laurie, whose sense of responsibility and vigilance ultimately save her. This theme plays into traditional horror tropes, where characters who engage in “reckless” behavior are often punished, while those who are more careful and virtuous survive.

3. The Impact of Trauma

In Halloween II (1981), the theme of trauma and its long-lasting effects is explored. The film picks up immediately after the first, following Laurie as she is hospitalized after her terrifying ordeal. Michael, now revealed to be her brother, relentlessly hunts her down again, linking the idea of family ties to deeper, personal trauma. Laurie’s journey in the second movie deals not only with physical survival but also the emotional toll of encountering such evil.

4. Fear of Suburbia’s Vulnerability

Both films emphasize the vulnerability of suburban life, shattering the notion that small towns are safe havens. Michael brings terror to the quiet streets of Haddonfield, proving that no place is immune to violence or evil. The setting of a seemingly idyllic, quiet suburban neighborhood juxtaposed with brutal murders reflects societal anxieties about the fragility of safety and normalcy, particularly in a time when suburban America was seen as an idealized retreat from urban dangers.

5. The Unstoppable Force

The films also tap into the fear of an unstoppable threat. Michael Myers survives being shot, stabbed, and injured, yet keeps coming. This persistence mirrors the broader theme of evil as an uncontainable force that can’t be easily destroyed or understood. The ending of Halloween (1978), where Michael disappears after being shot multiple times, leaves the audience with the unsettling idea that evil may never truly be vanquished.

The first two Halloween movies delve into themes of pure evil, survival, trauma, and the vulnerability of everyday life. Michael Myers represents an unstoppable, faceless force of terror, while Laurie Strode symbolizes innocence and resilience in the face of that evil. These elements, coupled with the backdrop of small-town America, create a lasting sense of dread and anxiety, leaving audiences to confront the idea that danger can lurk anywhere, at any time.

That’s all for this week’s wonders. More Halloween movies yet to come. What are your favorites?

Winnie’s Weekly Wonders: Zombieland and Shaun of the Dead…A Tale of Two Zombie Comedies

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Yes, it’s been another month instead of a week. I’m trying. Anyway, a few weeks ago, I posted a remembrance to Shaun of the Dead on Instagram, and a week ago I watched Zombieland with my nephew (his first viewing), so I thought it fitting to write about both these movies I love so much!

Zombie comedies, or “zom-coms,” have carved out a unique niche in the horror genre, blending the thrills of the undead with humor that ranges from slapstick to dark satire. Just so happens that both movies are two of the most iconic films in this subgenre are Zombieland and Shaun of the Dead. They approach the zombie apocalypse from different angles, offering distinct flavors of comedy and horror.

American Wit vs British Satire

The obvious differences between Zombieland and Shaun of the Dead is their approach to humor, rooted in their respective American and British origins.

Zombieland, directed by Ruben Fleischer, leans heavily on American wit and over-the-top antics. The humor is loud and in-your-face, with a focus on physical comedy and quick, sarcastic dialogue. The film embraces the absurdity of the zombie apocalypse, with memorable scenes like the “Zombie Kill of the Week” and the Jesse Eisenberg’s obsession with survival rules and his general fears. I love this film for its fast-pace and action-oriented comedy.

Shaun of the Dead, directed by Edgar Wright, showcases British satire and dry humor. The film’s comedy is more understated, relying on situational irony, deadpan delivery, and clever wordplay. Shaun’s mundane life is hilarious in the middle of the chaos of the zombie outbreak, especially his being obliviousness to the surrounding danger.

Archetypes vs. Everymen

Another key difference lies in the characters and how they reflect their respective films’ tones.

Zombieland features exaggerated archetype characters. Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) is the neurotic, rule-following survivor; Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) is the gun-toting, zombie-killing cowboy; Wichita (Emma Stone) is the clever, independent con artist; and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) is the tough, resourceful teenager. Each character is distinct and larger-than-life, contributing to the film’s high-energy vibe. Their personalities drive much of the humor, particularly in how they interact with each other and navigate the post-apocalyptic world.

On the other hand, Shaun of the Dead presents characters who are more relatable and grounded. Shaun (Simon Pegg) and his best friend Ed (Nick Frost) are average, unremarkable men caught up in extraordinary circumstances. Shaun’s journey is one of reluctant heroism, as he’s forced to step up and take charge in a situation that’s far beyond his usual scope of experience. The supporting characters, including Shaun’s girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) and his mother Barbara (Penelope Wilton), add to the film’s focus on personal relationships and the mundane struggles of everyday life. Shaun of the Dead feels less like an action movie and more like a slice-of-life comedy that just happens to feature zombies and lots of blood and guts.

Road Trip vs Survival at Home

The settings of the two films are completely different considering one is on the road as I mentioned earlier and one is in a local town.

Zombieland follows a road trip, with the characters constantly on the move as they search for safety and Twinkies in a world overrun by zombies. They encounter a series of adventures with unique challenges and opportunities for humor. The film is fast-paced, and the journey is a key element of the story, emphasizing the thrill of the open road in the middle of a zombie apocalypse.

In contrast, Shaun of the Dead is more contained, with much of the action taking place in Shaun’s home, the local pub, and the streets of suburban London. The film’s focus is on the internal growth of its characters, particularly Shaun. As they make their way through the zombie horde and try to survive, life’s little dramas persist.

Action-Packed vs. Subtly Satirical

Finally, the overall tone of each film reflects their distinct approaches to the zom-com genre.

Zombieland is action-packed and fun, with a crazy entertaining tone. The film’s emphasis on rule-breaking, zombie-killing, and high-stakes adventures creates a sense of exhilaration that engages viewers from start to finish. It’s a film that invites you to sit on the edge of your seat and enjoy the ride.

On the other hand, Shaun of the Dead balances its humor with moments of genuine emotion and social commentary. The film’s satirical tone invites viewers to reflect on the absurdities of modern life, particularly the monotony and routine that can make even a zombie apocalypse seem like just another day. Characters face genuine loss and personal growth, making the humor more poignant and the horror more impactful.

Each film offers a unique take on the undead apocalypse. While Zombieland dazzles with its fast-paced action and larger-than-life characters, Shaun of the Dead charms with its subtle satire and relatability. They show that there’s more than one way to survive—and laugh through—a zombie apocalypse. Both films are must-watches, so introduce them to the younger generations because they are certainly timeless.