Altoona faculty explore academic horror in latest podcast episode

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 explore academic horror, starting with Dario Argento's 1977 film "Suspiria."

In their discussion, Onishi and Stoyanoff explore themes such as ritualized violence, paranoia, and the cult-like power dynamics of a coven of witches who both govern and are governed by the institution. They highlight the vivid colors, atmospheric elements, and unsettling soundtrack that is used to convey meaning and evoke fear. The hosts also delve into the use of witches not as symbols of feminist empowerment but as tools of misogyny, driven by the male gaze. They also consider the idea of suppressed queer and feminine elements in a drab world. The conversation concludes with a look at the film's reliance on practical effects over CGI, setting a joyful yet terrifying tone.

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