For me, the It Slays Podcast used to be "must listen" every time it was released. I loved listening at work and getting unique takes on such a wide variety if films that many other podcasts ignore or just are not smart enough to review. All this came to an end with the July 30, 2022 review of Sleepaway Camp. I enjoy the film and the group's trashing of it is NOT the point. I love a good debate and welcome differences of opinion. I don't need to agree with an opinion to enjoy a review. My problem is that much of the review was driven by a discussion about diversity, marginalization and downright abuse towards certain segments of society - all problems that I admit are part of the film (no disagreement here). However, what started as a review and discussion devolved into a lecture from Willow Catelyn Maclay. Again, no problem, their viewpoint and frame of reference is valid on all levels. But I take issue with being told that their objection to the film is based largely on transphobia, lack of inclusivity, and overall institutional bias only to have the word "hillbilly" (in it pejorative context) roll off their tongue like they use the expression everyday. I welcome differing opinions, but I won't abide a hypocrite. That was and will be the last episode I ever listen to.

I tried listening to the shining and all they actually talk about is the documentary room 237! And the queerest of the 3 constantly interrupts the other 2 hosts and it’s almost infuriating! He can’t not talk over the other guys who are great btw! Just get rid of the one feminine dude and it’d be great! And no I don’t care about his sexuality it’s the only way I can describe the guy I’m talking about, beyond annoying to hear him interrupt on a constant basis!

Okay, the good first. Unlike some horro podcast, they seem to do a nice amount of research on the films. That’s a huge plus. They also provide some really good insight. I’ve listened to one of their earlier podcasts (Suspiria) and one of the Mayer ones (It Follows). It seems like they are getting better at their craft. Okay, the bad. It seems like some podcasts are really big into using the most vulgar language possible to sound edgy. This really isn’t necessary, as they seem to have really good content. I listen to a lot of great podcasts, some of them swear and some don’t. Of the ones I listened to that have swearing, it’s not sonic assault of the most vulgar language possible. It’s just part of the discussion and doesn’t feel out of place. Not everyone wants to hear how many boners you got reading a book or whatever. That was kind of stuff was funny in high school. But then, it could be argued that our brains weren’t fully developed at that age. Anyway, I think they are sincere and trying to get better. I would probably give this a 3.5. However, there don’t seem to be any halfsies.

...for (mostly) tasteful discussions of all things horror. From the music, to the costuming, to the ARCHITECTURE. It slays.