The Iris Archives

Episode 16 - DIE

On this episode, I’m joined by my friends Maxie and Rexy to talk about DIE, a 20-issue dark-fantasy comic from one of my favorite writers: Kieron Gillen. It’s a story about six kids who get transported to a fantasy world, getting trauma from it, and then getting pulled back in as adults who have to face the consequences of their teenage recklessness. We discuss our favorite characters, Stephanie Hans’ gorgeous art, Jules Verne, Ash’s many bad decisions, and the story’s thesis on the purpose of roleplaying games.

Episode 15 - The French Dispatch

Ashley joins me to gush about our favorite Wes Anderson film. We discuss the use of color and models, unique and inventive camera movement, the benefits of the anthology format within a wider framing story, and the indulgent fantasy of having a boss like Bill Murray. Music Credits: ”Simone, Naked, Cell Block-J Hobby Room” by Alexandre Desplat (from The French Dispatch Original Score) ”Obituary” by Alexandre Desplat (from The French Dispatch Original Score)

Episode 14 - Heaven Will Be Mine

I’m joined once again by Crystal and Molly to talk about a game I adored: Heaven Will Be Mine! It’s a story of girls piloting mechs to carve a spot in the universe for themselves. Music Credits: ”Cradle’s Graces” by Alec Lambert [Heaven Will Be Mine OST] ”Silly Game” by Alec Lambert [Heaven Will Be Mine OST]

Episode 13 - 1000xRESIST

Imagine feeling someone hold your hand whenever you’re scared. Carry you home whenever you’re weary… Imagine waking up from the best dream only to realize it is your life. This is what it was like to love the ALLMOTHER. Crystal and Molly join me to talk about my favorite game released in 2024 (and one of my new favorite games of all time): 1000xRESIST. If you’ve already played this gorgeous tale of abuse, guilt, and longing, I hope you’ll enjoy hearing us pick it apart. And if you haven’t played it yet, I hope this will convince you to try it. Content Warnings: Brief mentions of torture, sexual manipulation and abuse, police violence, and suicide-as-protest. Music Credits: “Watcher” by Drew Redman [1000xRESIST Original Soundtrack] “Fixer’s Song Extended (ft. A Sum)” by Drew Redman and Alex Mah [Fixer’s Song EP]

Episode 12 - I Saw the TV Glow

It’s only appropriate that the first episode of The Iris Archives covering a movie has a star-studded cast of guests. Luke, Molly, Ashley and Crystal join me on a deep dive into a film that’s as visually stunning as it is emotionally gutting. Content Warning: Suicidal thoughts and attempts are discussed, both in general and in the context of personal experience.