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ClassHorrorCast is a podcast created by Aran from FirstClassHorror for fans of the Horror genre.
First Class Horror is Ireland's biggest and best horror related content producer.
First Class Horror is Ireland's biggest and best horror related content producer.
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Transcribed
26 AUG 2026 · We’re opening the Lament Configuration and diving headfirst into Clive Barker’s iconic Hellraiser (1987)!
In the first episode of our journey through the Hellraiser franchise, we explore the inspirations behind this groundbreaking horror classic, the incredible mythology and lore surrounding its characters, and the unsung heroes and villains who helped bring this twisted world to life.
We’ll dig into the film’s unforgettable practical effects and SFX, the creation of the Cenobites, fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and trivia, the movie’s troubled and unconventional production, and plenty more.
From Frank and Julia to Kirsty, the Engineer and, of course, Pinhead and the Cenobites, there’s far more to Hellraiser than meets the eye.
The box is open. We have such sights to show you.
For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
11 AUG 2026 · In this very special episode, we sit down with Spookyworld founder and creator David Bertolino for an incredible journey through the history of one of the most influential names in the Halloween and haunt industry.
David shares the story of how Spookyworld began, how it evolved from a passion project into the world’s first horror theme park, and the challenges, risks, and triumphs that came with creating such a groundbreaking attraction.
He opens up about the highs and lows of running a massive Halloween event, the importance of adapting when things don’t go to plan, and how he stayed committed to his vision through decades of change.
We dive into David’s fascinating life beyond Spookyworld, including his family’s legendary costume, joke shop, and Halloween superstore, his time working with Rubie’s Costume Company, and the many incredible friendships and relationships he built throughout the Halloween industry.
David also discusses his brand-new book, documenting the full history of Spookyworld — a stunning collection filled with behind-the-scenes stories, rare photos, memories, and the incredible journey behind one of the most iconic haunt attractions ever created.
We talk about the upcoming documentary exploring his life and the creation of Spookyworld, his current work promoting the book at haunt conventions, and his exciting plans for a second book that will serve as a travel guide to the best Halloween, horror, and theme park experiences across America.
David is truly one of the kindest and most passionate people in the industry, with a lifetime of stories, experiences, and connections with some of the biggest names in horror, Halloween, and entertainment.
Whether you love haunted attractions, theme parks, Halloween history, or the behind-the-scenes stories of how legendary experiences are created, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
A must-listen for every Halloween and haunt fan.
For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=04af526b-0a7f-4e5e-986a-e11c75365cfd Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
4 AUG 2026 · Writer and director Keith Thomas joins us for an in-depth conversation covering his journey into filmmaking, his passion for horror, and the stories behind some of his biggest projects.
We explore the fascinating folklore and mythology that inspired The Vigil, the challenges of bringing such a unique horror film to life, and whether there could ever be a sequel or prequel expanding that world.
Keith also reflects on directing Firestarter, discussing how the project came together, the realities of adapting a beloved Stephen King story, and his honest thoughts on the film's release and reception.
The conversation then turns to the critically acclaimed The First Omen, where Keith takes us behind the scenes of one of 2024's standout horror films, sharing insights into its development, his writing process, and what makes psychological horror so effective.
Along the way, Keith offers invaluable advice for aspiring writers and filmmakers, shares stories from his career, and even teases some exciting news about what could be coming next.
If you're passionate about horror filmmaking, writing, or the creative process, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror
Check out Keith - https://www.instagram.com/keiththomasofficial Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
27 JUL 2026 · This week on ClassHorrorCast, I'm joined by one of the most respected voices in the haunted attraction industry, Ted Dougherty.
An acclaimed writer, producer, director and award-winning author, Ted has helped shape some of the biggest names in Halloween entertainment.
Throughout his career, he's worked in creative roles with Knott's Scary Farm, Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights, Queen Mary's Dark Harbor, Los Angeles Haunted Hayride, Cedar Point Halloween Haunt, Six Flags Entertainment, Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, Lionsgate, FX Network, Paramount Scares and many more, while also lecturing and educating the next generation of haunt creators.
In this fascinating conversation, we discuss:
How Ted first fell in love with haunted attractions and turned that passion into a career.
His award-winning book The History of Knott's Scary Farm, exploring the incredible legacy of the world's most influential Halloween event and the impact it's had on the haunt industry.
Behind-the-scenes stories from the many world-class attractions and entertainment companies he's worked with throughout his career, including the creative process behind designing immersive scares and unforgettable guest experiences.
We also talk about the evolution of the haunt industry, what separates a good scare from a great one, how modern attractions continue to push the boundaries of immersive storytelling, and where the future of Halloween entertainment is heading.
Whether you're a lifelong haunt fan, a horror enthusiast, or someone interested in themed entertainment and attraction design, this is an episode packed with insight, history and inspiration.
Sit back and enjoy an incredible conversation with one of the true pioneers and historians of modern haunted attractions.
For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=e10a7462-ebc0-4896-a10d-7e9d07afa5ea
Check out Ted's work - https://teddougherty.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
6 JUL 2026 · The episode that started it all.
In my very first interview as host of ClassHorrorCast, I was fortunate enough to spend over two hours talking horror with The Blair Witch Project co-creator and director Eduardo Sánchez.
Looking back, I was inexperienced, asked way too many questions and probably kept Eduardo talking far longer than I should have but he was incredibly generous with his time and stories, helping shape what ClassHorrorCast would eventually become.
Over the years we stayed in touch, exchanged some very cool gifts and remained connected through our shared love of horror cinema.
In this wide-ranging conversation we discuss The Blair Witch Project, found footage horror, Seventh Moon, the fantastic Bigfoot film Exists, the criminally underrated Lovely Molly and much more.
Whether you know these stories already or are hearing them for the first time, this conversation remains one of my favourite episodes we've ever recorded.
The episode that started it all, and Eduardo returns to ClassHorrorCast in 2026.
For more of my content or to grab a copy of my book - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=e10a7462-ebc0-4896-a10d-7e9d07afa5ea Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
23 JUN 2026 · This week on ClassHorrorCast, we sit down with filmmaker, writer, adventurer and one of cinema’s true originals - Richard Stanley.
We begin with a look back at his cult classic Hardware and discuss why its themes feel more relevant today than ever before, before moving into Dust Devil and how the film has continued to find new audiences year after year.
From there, we dive headfirst into one of the most infamous stories in movie history. The Island of Dr. Moreau.
Richard tells the full story of being hired to direct the film, being fired, the complete chaos that surrounded the production, and the strange aftermath that followed.
We also talk about how he feels about the experience today and whether his original vision for the film could still one day be seen.
We also explore Richard’s work as a writer on films such as The Abandoned and Imago Mortis, his process for writing, and his years spent away from filmmaking before making a remarkable return in 2019 with Color Out of Space starring Nicolas Cage.
Bringing things right up to the present day, Richard tells us the unbelievable story of writing the third installment in the Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey franchise and how he ended up playing the role of villain… or hero… Balthazar von Woozle.
Outside of film, Richard has spent years pursuing interests that go far beyond cinema.
Living in the French Pyrenees, we discuss his fascination with the Holy Grail, Cathar history and the remarkable story behind his 2001 documentary The Secret Glory, which explored the life of Otto Rahn and his strange place in history.
We also talk about his recent book Otto Rahn, Grail Hunter.
Finally, we touch on projects still waiting to emerge from the shadows and Richard’s continued desire to bring his long-held vision of The Dunwich Horror to life.
This is a wide-ranging, fascinating and completely unpredictable conversation with one of genre cinema’s most unique voices and one you definitely don’t want to miss.
For more of my content and to grab a copy of my book - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror
For more on Richard's work - https://theofficialrichardstanley.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
11 JUN 2026 · In this episode, we sit down with director and cinematographer John R. Leonetti for a deep dive into his incredible career and lifelong love of filmmaking.
We talk about his early beginnings in the industry and his work behind the camera on iconic films including The Mask, Mortal Kombat, Dead Silence, Insidious, Insidious: Chapter 2, and The Conjuring.
That naturally leads into the conversation about his transition into directing with Mortal Kombat: Annihilation and how that experience shaped the next phase of his career.
We also explore his entry into The Conjuring Universe with Annabelle, including discussion around some of the real-life mythology and inspiration behind the infamous doll.
John shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from across his career, opens up about why films like Dead Silence continue to build passionate cult followings, and even talks about the possibility of Dead Silence 2.
And to top it all off, he reveals an incredible upcoming project that horror fans will absolutely not want to miss.
If you've ever wanted to hear stories from inside the making of some of modern horror and cult cinema’s most memorable films, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
For more of my content and to grab your copy of the book - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
8 JUN 2026 · In this bonus episode, I was interview by a radio station here in Ireland called South-East Radio on a show called 'Saturday Morning Mix with John Moynihan'
We chat about my start in horror and love for film in general. The beginning of my blog 'Firstclasshorror' which slowly turned into the podcast you listen to each week. Some stories over the years.
There is also a connection between Wexford (where I live) Halloween 3: Season of the witch and Robocop 1&2... Can you guess?!
We dive into the concept behind writing my first published book 'Horror Hot Takes' which is now available worldwide.
https://tr.ee/XVw_6pibnr
https://tr.ee/sAhN2AIcXv
Also available through Barnes&Noble, Red Books, Byrnes Bookstores, Seanchai Books, Nerd-Up and many more! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Transcribed
5 JUN 2026 · This week on ClassHorrorCast, I’m joined by screenwriter Jeff Barker for one of the most thoughtful and inspiring conversations we’ve had on the show.
Jeff is not only a writer in his own right, but also the father of filmmaker Curry Barker, whose new film Obsession has been making a huge impact. We talk about the incredible success surrounding the film, Jeff’s own contributions to the project, and what it’s been like watching something that started so small become such a major moment.
We dive deep into Jeff’s lifelong love of cinema, how he developed his voice as a writer over the years, and the kinds of stories and emotions he’s always been drawn to expressing creatively. We also discuss some of the filmmakers and movies that continue to inspire him.
Beyond filmmaking, this episode becomes a conversation about family, passion, and perseverance. Jeff opens up about his relationship with Curry through the years and what it means to now witness everything they’ve achieved together.
We also talk about Curry’s next film, which has already wrapped, and Jeff shares his thoughts on the upcoming A24 Texas Chainsaw project.
Along the way we explore imposter syndrome, navigating difficult periods in life, staying positive, and continuing to chase creative goals no matter where you are in the journey.
We also spend time discussing Jeff’s fantastic YouTube channel, The Screenplay Lab, where he creates brilliant screenplay breakdowns and insightful analysis of some truly great films.
This is a unique, honest, and incredibly interesting conversation with someone whose own creative journey feels like it’s only just beginning and someone who may have some very exciting years ahead.
Enjoy the episode.
More of my content and to purchase my book https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror
Jeff Barker's
https://www.youtube.com/@jeff-barker
https://jeff-barker.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jbark27/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
Explicit
Transcribed
20 MAY 2026 · In this episode of ClassHorrorCast, I’m joined by Steve Barton!
One of the true pioneers of modern online horror media and co-founder of Dread Central.
We dive deep into Steve’s early beginnings as a horror fan, his days posting on the legendary Fangoria message boards, and the completely random encounter with Tony Timpone that ultimately changed the course of his life forever.
From there, Steve takes us through the creation of Dread Central and the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs that came with building one of the most important horror outlets in internet history during a time when online horror journalism was still the wild west.
Throughout the conversation, Steve reflects on the relationships he built with legendary figures including George A. Romero and Sid Haig, sharing incredible stories from decades spent inside the horror industry and convention scene.
We also discuss Steve’s pivotal involvement in the rise of Terrifier and the Art the Clown phenomenon, his role in helping bring attention to the franchise, and the difficult fallout that eventually led to his firing from the production.
It’s an honest and deeply personal discussion about passion, loyalty, success, disappointment, and the realities of working within the entertainment industry.
The episode also explores Steve’s raw and emotional autobiography, which serves as a brutally honest reflection on following a dream, navigating personal struggles, and dedicating your life to horror culture.
We wrap things up by discussing his current projects, consulting work, writing, and what the future holds next.
This is a fascinating conversation with somebody who helped shape modern horror fandom in the age of the internet and a must-listen for horror fans, filmmakers, collectors, and anyone who grew up living on horror message boards and websites during the early online era.
For more of my content - https://linktr.ee/FirstClassHorror Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/class-horror-cast-horror-movie-podcast--4295531/support.
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ClassHorrorCast is a podcast created by Aran from FirstClassHorror for fans of the Horror genre.
First Class Horror is Ireland's biggest and best horror related content producer.
First Class Horror is Ireland's biggest and best horror related content producer.
Information
| Author | Aran Doyle |
| Organization | Aran Doyle |
| Categories | TV & Film |
| Website | - |
| arandoyle@classhorrorcast.com |
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