Welcome to December, friend!

November flew by at a rate that felt unbelievably fast, but it’s offered plenty of moments to pause and reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared this past month.

We had a lot of fun the last 30 days — whether it was one of our live episode recordings with our Patrons, or our listeners assembling trauma bonding during our themed watch parties, we were reminded of just how special this community is. I have to admit — there’s something special about watching a movie wildy problematic as Amityville Thanksgiving together. We’re a little bit closer now, yeah?

December is shaping up to be an exciting month—not just because of our episodes, but because of the energy buzzing around our community. The Hack or Slash Advent Calendar is already spreading joy with 25 days of fun, and Chel’s Holiday Haul thread has been overflowing with great recommendations. Plus, we’re gearing up for the Slasher’s Choice Awards voting, where we’ll celebrate the best (and worst) of 2024!

Behind the scenes, we’ve been hard at work on new perks, content, and plans for the future. Here’s a look at a few new things you can expect this month:

Like a Virgin
Everyone remembers their first. That thrilling mix of fear and fascination, the lingering chills, and the way a horror movie burrowed into your psyche and stayed there forever. Your first time is unforgettable…and worth reliving.

Our new blog series, Like A Virgin, is dedicated to revisiting those unforgettable first-time experiences with the movies that made us fall in love with horror. In each edition, members of the Hack or Slash family reflect on the movies that left an indelible mark on our souls. From the thrill of the first watch to the nostalgic re-watches that uncover new layers of meaning, we’re celebrating the films we wish we could experience again for the very first time.

Something Cryptic
One of the most exciting is a new offering for our Slasher 4 patrons launching on December 13th. This new perk is going to address one of the most popular questions we get asked every day, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

We Need Your Feedback
We’ve also been putting thought into how we can make 2025 even better for you. To that end, we’re launching a listener survey this month to hear your feedback about our content. Whether it’s your favorite episode format, what you’d like more (or less) of, or even suggestions we haven’t considered, we want to hear it all! The survey will be open through December, and we’d be so grateful if you could take a few minutes to share your thoughts.

On a personal note, this time of year always inspires reflection, and I already mentioned in our last edition how difficult the last year has been. This December marks a turning point for me though, and there’s a lot of positive personal and podcast-related change on the horizon. I’ll share more about that in January’s newsletter.

For now, I just want to express my gratitude: to our team who lift me up in ways I can’t always put into words, and to each of you, who make Hack or Slash more than a podcast— you make it a family.

Here’s to a month of warmth, chills, and celebrating all things horror. Thank you for being here, for your kindness, and for making this journey as meaningful as it is.

Stay spooky, friends.

• We returned to a haunting small town to face its bloodthirsty secrets in Salem’s Lot (2024).

• We reveled in the chaotic collision of vampires and crime in the cult classic From Dusk Till Dawn (1996).

• We dissected a chilling tale of social tension and betrayal with an old versus new episode: Speak No Evil (2022 vs 2024).

• We celebrated the comedic genius of a horror parody masterpiece in Young Frankenstein (1974).

• We explored the surreal and unsettling descent into obsession with Stopmotion (2023).

Here’s what you may have missed on our blog:

• Even Final Girls Get Scared: Chel leads us on an exploration of the vulnerability and resilience of horror’s iconic heroines, and reminds us how their lessons in courage and survival can inspire us to face our own fears in real life.

• Why Anna Valery is My Favorite Character in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon: Discover why Nathan feels Anna Valery stands out as a compelling force in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, balancing strength and humanity in a world of chaos.

• The Case for Remakes: Chel provides a thoughtful analysis of how remakes can breathe new life into horror classics, offering fresh perspectives while honoring the originals.

Live Recordings

• 12/8: It’s a Wonderful Knife (2023)

• 12/15: Y2K (2024

Watch Parties

• 12/5: Red Christmas (2016)

• 12/10: Krampus (2015)

• 12/20: Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)

• 12/23: Santa’s Slay (2005)

Mike “Miggy Mack” 📍Indiana

How did you first discover Hack or Slash?

I discovered the podcast back in December of 2022 through another listener that recommended it to me.

Which Hack or Slash episode has been your favorite so far?

Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey

312: Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey (2023)

This week we're venturing into the 100 Acre Woods with Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey (2023). We explore the film's daring transformation from beloved children's …

www.hackorslash.live/312-winnie-the-pooh-blood-and-honey-2023

What’s your favorite part of the Hack or Slash community on Discord?

I love the general discussion in the group. Good vibes all around.

What’s your favorite horror franchise?

Halloween and my boy Michael Fucking Myers!

What are your biggest passions outside of horror?

Playing poker, collecting comics.

What’s your go-to snack or drink during a horror movie marathon?

Popcorn, junior mints and/or twizzlers.

What’s the worst horror movie you’ve ever seen?

Rob Zombie’s Halloween. I have never hated a movie experience more.

Why would you probably die in a horror movie?

I don’t run much, so if we’re running, I gotta get behind a locked door quickly or I’m huffing and puffing to death.

Who’s your favorite horror villain or survivor?

Michael Audrey Myers, baybee!

What’s one underrated horror film you recommend to everyone?

Rock ‘n’ Roll Nightmare. It’s pure, low-budget cheese, and I am a mouse!