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Rotten Horror Picture ShowThe Pensky File Author: The Pensky File
Amanda and Clay dive deep into Rotten Tomatoes' list of the "200 Best Horror Movies of All Time". There will be classics, cult classics, hidden gems, stuff that's just OK, and a few that are so bad it's SCARY! Come along for the ride... IF YOU DARE! Language: en Genres: Film Reviews, TV & Film Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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130. Candyman (2021)
Friday, 15 August, 2025
Clay and Amanda are back with a brand-new episode of The Rotten Horror Picture Show Podcast, and this time they’re diving into Candyman (2021), the haunting remake-slash-sequel directed by Nia DaCosta. This isn’t just a rehash of the original 1992 horror classic — it’s a smart, visually stunning continuation that weaves in the legend of Candyman with new layers of social commentary about art, trauma, race, and gentrification. Featuring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II in a chilling lead performance, some inventive shadow-puppet storytelling, and a tone that’s equal parts eerie and poetic, it’s a film that honors its roots while creating something wholly its own. Of course, it also brings back one other key ingredient from the original: bees. Lots and lots of bees.And that’s where things get… complicated for me. See, I’ve got a bit of a history with bees — one bee in particular. His name was Barry. And Barry the Bee? He ran away with my wife. I know, I know, it sounds ridiculous. But it happened. One day she’s talking about how “cute” and “funny” he is, and the next, she’s gone. Off to some flower-filled meadow in the countryside, I assume. Ever since, I can’t look at bees without feeling a mix of fear, rage, and heartbreak. So when this movie started throwing bees at me left and right, all I could think was, “Here we go again. First my wife, now my peace of mind.”Still, Clay and Amanda make it worth pushing through my insect-related PTSD. Their discussion breaks down how the film connects to the original, why its horror feels so timely, and how Nia DaCosta’s direction elevates the material. I just wish they’d warn me when the next bee movie is coming. Barry’s still out there. I can feel it.And don't forget to head over to patreon.com/thepenskyfile to follow Clay and Amanda down the muddy path of remakes and reboots too!
