Broomsticks and Bloodshed

Cory’s 5 Favorite Horror Films Of All Time

This week on Broomsticks and Bloodshed, Cory steps behind the mic solo for a deeply personal dive into the five horror films that shaped his love of the genre forever. From the spiritual terror of The Exorcist to the grief soaked nightmare of Hereditary, the paranoid isolation of The Thing, the grimy brutality of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, and the haunting madness of The Shining, this episode explores why horror stays with us long after the credits roll. Together, we unpack fear, faith, grief, violence, isolation, and the beautifully unholy emotions that make horror feel so human. Light a candle, settle into the dark, and maybe leave the hallway light on tonight.

The Craft

In this episode of Broomsticks and Bloodshed, Cory and Rossa dive headfirst into the iconic 1996 film The Craft, unpacking its legacy, its chaos, and its surprisingly layered portrayal of witchcraft. Recorded on the film’s 30th anniversary, the timing feels almost… fated. Before getting into the movie, the hosts reflect on a whirlwind weekend at Spirit Northwest, sharing stories from their live screening of Horror Hotel, unexpected fan encounters, and the beautifully chaotic energy of convention life. From there, they ease into their review with a mix of nostalgia, humor, and sharp insight. The discussion explores each of the film’s central characters and the real-world themes they embody: trauma, power, marginalization, and the intoxicating pull of control. From Sarah’s fragile vulnerability to Nancy’s explosive descent, the hosts examine how The Craft balances empowerment with consequence. They also highlight the film’s cultural impact, including its unforgettable soundtrack, aesthetic influence, and enduring place in witchy spaces today. Along the way, Cory and Rossa dig into the accuracy and symbolism of the magic portrayed, touching on concepts like invocation, elemental balance, and the ethics of spellwork. They don’t shy away from the darker elements either, including discussions of mental health, manipulation, and the dangers of unchecked power. Blending personal stories, witchcraft insight, and horror analysis, this episode celebrates The Craft as both a cult classic and a cautionary tale—one that still resonates decades later. So light your candles, call your corners, and remember: whatever you send out… might just come back.

Streaming Screams & Theater Nightmares

Step away from the coven for a moment as Broomsticks and Bloodshed dives into a horror catch-up session. Cory and Rossa trade notes on everything they’ve been watching lately, from theatrical releases to streaming deep cuts, covering the good, the bad, and the absolutely unforgivable. From the chaotic fun of Ready or Not 2 to the bleak dread of The Dark and the Wicked, the duo explores what makes horror hit… or miss. They dig into slow-burn psychological terror, brutal action flicks, overlooked indie gems, and the ongoing struggle of video game adaptations that just can’t quite stick the landing. Expect passionate rants, unexpected recommendations, and a few films you may want to avoid at all costs. Whether you’re hunting for your next scare or just love hearing horror fans break it all down, this episode is your ultimate watchlist companion. Plus, stick around for updates on upcoming events, including Spirit Northwest, and more from the ever-expanding world of Broomsticks and Bloodshed. http://linktr.ee/brmstixandbloodpod

The Lords of Salem

In this episode of Broomsticks and Bloodshed, Cory and Rosśa descend into the hypnotic, chaotic world of The Lords of Salem, the divisive occult fever dream from Rob Zombie. From Salem’s blood-soaked past to a modern-day radio station unknowingly broadcasting something sinister, the hosts unpack a film that’s equal parts ritual, nightmare, and visual spectacle. They explore Heidi’s unraveling as ancient witchcraft resurfaces through sound, discuss the film’s heavy symbolism, and debate whether style truly outweighs substance. Along the way, they dive into the historical inspiration behind Salem’s hysteria, the power of sound in magical practice, and the idea of fate versus free will. Is this film a misunderstood piece of occult art or an overindulgent descent into chaos? Either way, it leaves a mark. http://linktr.ee/brmstixandbloodpod

Bell, Book and Candle

Step into the smoky, spell-soaked streets of 1950s Greenwich Village as Cory and Rosśa dive into Bell, Book and Candle (1958), the ultimate witchy rom-com dripping in charm, camp, and subtext. From Kim Novak’s hypnotic allure to Jimmy Stewart’s wide-eyed unraveling, this film serves romance with a side of magic… and a whole lot of questions. Is love real if it’s conjured? What does it mean to lose your magic for “normalcy”? And is this really a story about witches… or something much deeper? The hosts unpack the film’s stunning cinematography, beatnik aesthetics, and queer-coded themes hiding just beneath the surface. Plus, they explore the portrayal of familiars, spellwork, and the idea of witchcraft as both power and identity. Light a candle, grab your familiar, and join us as we revisit a classic where love might be the strongest spell of all… or the most dangerous.