Penn State Altoona faculty dissect feminism and horror in latest podcast

ALTOONA, Pa. - Penn State Altoona faculty members Brian Onishi, associate professor of philosophy, and Jeff Stoyanoff, assistant professor of English and of women's, gender and sexuality studies, have released a new episode of their "Horror Joy" podcast. In the latest episode, the hosts delve into Luca Guadagnino's 2018 reimagining of "Suspiria."

Onishi and Stoyanoff explore the themes of academic horror, feminism, and political violence within the film's setting of post-war Berlin, comparing Guadagnino's version to Dario Argento's original 1977 film and discussing the significant differences, including the portrayal of witchcraft and the regulation of bodies in an academic setting. The hosts highlight the film's complex power structures and touch on the role of music, dance and cinematic techniques in creating horror. The discussion also questions Guadagnino's claim of making a feminist film, examining the intricate dynamics between the characters and the violent depiction of women's bodies. Ultimately, Onishi and Stoyanoff find a blend of intellectual and emotional engagement in the film, despite their mixed feelings about some aspects.

The full episode can be accessed on podcast providers or on Red Circle.