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Midnight Mass

Media & Entertainment Podcasts

Join cult leader Peaches Christ & filmmaker Michael Varrati for some hilarious and hardcore audio worship of their favorite cult movies! Each episode focuses on a unique film, filmmaker, performer, or genre and includes special guest stars, super-fans, and surprises befitting midnight movie celebration. Subscribe today and truly become one of the Children of the Pod-corn! Episodes released every other week.

Location:

United States

Description:

Join cult leader Peaches Christ & filmmaker Michael Varrati for some hilarious and hardcore audio worship of their favorite cult movies! Each episode focuses on a unique film, filmmaker, performer, or genre and includes special guest stars, super-fans, and surprises befitting midnight movie celebration. Subscribe today and truly become one of the Children of the Pod-corn! Episodes released every other week.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Episode 106: Abby

4/16/2025
The story of a woman possessed! This week, Peaches and Michael are raising some hell on behalf of 1974’s ABBY! In addition to discussing how this burgeoning cult classic was almost lost due to studio suppression, our hosts delve into how it fundamentally breaks the Judeo-Christian mold of exorcism cinema. Joining the conversation is acclaimed writer and host Sharai Bohannon, who has made it her mission to make sure this film and its heroine finally get their day in the sun. Then, HORROR MOVIE SURVIVAL GUIDE’s Teri Gamble stops by to lay down the law on why ABBY is so much more than a knock-off of THE EXORCIST! From Carol Speed to bar room rituals, this episode has it all! Additional Reading: 'Abby' Is More Than Just A Rip-off of 'The Exorcist' by Sharai Bohannon

Duration:01:22:36

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Episode 105: Wild at Heart

4/2/2025
…and weird on top! This week, Peaches and Michael take a fever dream of a road trip in celebration of 1990’s WILD AT HEART! In addition to paying homage to the legacy of David Lynch, our hosts delve into the film’s unapologetic commitment to horniness. Joining the conversation is best-selling author Mallory O’Meara, who continues to be inspired by the ongoing exploits of Sailor and Lula. Then, celebrity chef Kat Turner stops by to discuss this unconventional love story, as well as her own remembrances of working with David Lynch on INLAND EMPIRE! From Diane Ladd to snakeskin jackets, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:34:41

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Episode 104: Streets of Fire

3/19/2025
A rock & roll fable! This week, Peaches and Michael are ruled by the music in celebration of 1984’s STREETS OF FIRE! In addition to discussing this deliciously dystopian vision of a 50’s style future, our hosts delve into the unmitigated power of filmmaker Walter Hill for curating a cult vibe. Joining the conversation is multi-faceted artist extraordinaire Ric Ray, whose love of this movie runs so deep, he even occasionally styles himself in its image. Then, fashion icon and costume design superstar Ruby Vixen stops by to discuss this classic’s impact on a generation of queer femmes. From sledgehammer fights to Stevie Nicks, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:29:25

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Episode 103: The Fly

3/5/2025
Be Afraid. Be Very Afraid. This week, Peaches and Michael are buzzing over their celebration of 1986’s THE FLY! In addition to discussing the film’s themes surrounding the delicate nature of the body, our hosts delve into the powerhouse pairing of Geena Davis and Jeff Goldblum. Joining the conversation is renowned writer and critic Matt Konopka, who shares how his appreciation of this cult classic is continually evolving. Then, acclaimed actor Danny Plotner stops by to dig into why he feels body horror is a communal experience. From transportation pods to powerful puke, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:43:03

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Episode 102: Mars Attacks!

2/19/2025
Nice planet…we’ll take it! This week, Peaches and Michael are preparing for invasion in celebration of 1996’s MARS ATTACKS! In addition to discussing this wacky satire’s stacked cast, our hosts delve into whether or not the film is a prophetic vision of actual extraterrestrial arrival! Joining the conversation is acclaimed screenwriter and author John “Jack” O’Brien, whose lifetime of love of this cult classic continues to burn as bright as the red planet. Then, drag icon Abhora stops by to dig into how the movie’s otherworldly aesthetic inspires her. From bubble gum chewing alien divas to dog-headed transplants, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:25:35

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Episode 101 - Valley of the Dolls

2/5/2025
Sparkle, Neely, Sparkle! In celebration of their brand-new season, Peaches and Michael are taking a deep dive into 1967’s VALLEY OF THE DOLLS! In addition to discussing how this adaptation of Jacqueline Susann’s sordid novel captured queer imaginations, our hosts delve into the story's searing exposé of showbiz! Joining the conversation is legendary film programmer Mark Valen, who discusses his longtime love of this movie that he was willing to break the rules to see! Then, galactic drag icon Miss X stops by to talk about her time portraying Helen Lawson on stage in DOLLS! From nudies in Paris to Gillian girls, this episode has it all!

Duration:01:31:38

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Episode 100 - Idol Worship: Matthew Lillard

12/11/2024
Episode 100…and it’s a SCREAM! This week, Peaches and Michael are celebrating this momentous occasion with an Idol Worship celebration all about pop culture icon Matthew Lillard! In addition to discussing this zeitgeist defining actor’s landmark roles that range from Stu to Shaggy and beyond, our hosts delve into his place as a champion figure for the “othered.” Joining the conversation is none other than Matthew Lillard himself, who reflects on his continually evolving career. Then, Fangoria’s Digital Editor Angel Melanson stops by to talk about the ongoing impact of Lillard fandom. Plus, Peaches and Michael reflect on 100 episodes…and Angel joins our hosts for a chat about holiday horror! From SERIAL MOM to SLC PUNK, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:25:30

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Episode 99: Addams Family Values

11/27/2024
The Family Just Got a Little Stranger! This week, Peaches and Michael are feeling all together ooky in celebration of 1993's ADDAMS FAMILY VALUES! In addition to discussing the pop culture defining turn of Joan Cusack as Debbie Jellinsky, our hosts delve into how this superior sequel got a queer injection from legendary screenwriter Paul Rudnick! Joining the conversation is drag icon Liquorice Black, who explores how her trademark aesthetic was undeniably influenced by the Addams. Then, performer extraordinaire Manuel Caneri stops by to dig into the lessons we can glean from this frightful family's unique form of togetherness. From Thanksgiving pageants to Malibu Barbie, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:27:56

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Episode 98 - Idol Worship: Corey Feldman

11/13/2024
Never say die! This week, Peaches and Michael dreamed a little dream of an Idol Worship celebration all about COREY FELDMAN! In addition to discussing this undeniable superstar’s impact on both the mainstream and cult canons, our hosts delve into a staggering oeuvre that includes THE LOST BOYS, THE GOONIES, GREMLINS, LICENSE TO DRIVE, and so much more! Joining the conversation is none other than the icon himself, Corey Feldman, who shares stories about the recent recovery of his “lost” film THE BIRTHDAY, as well as musings and insights from his journey as an artist and activist. From Tommy Jarvis to a Jordan Peele assist, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:19:21

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Episode 97: Phantasm

10/30/2024
If this one doesn't scare you, you're already dead! This week, Peaches and Michael are having an interdimensional Halloween in celebration of 1979’s PHANTASM! In addition to discussing this cult classic’s thoughtful presentation of male friendship, our hosts delve into the undeniable presence of Angus Scrimm. Joining the conversation is filmmaker Henry Darrow McComas, who shares how Don Coscarelli’s innovation continues to inspire him. Then, writer Brian W. Smith stops by to dig into how he connected to the film’s portrayal of family and grief. From flying balls to ice cream man jam sessions, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:22:54

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Episode 96: The Witches

10/16/2024
Remove your wigs! This week, Peaches and Michael are having a hexy hotel stay in celebration of 1990’s THE WITCHES! In addition to discussing the enduring majesty of Anjelica Huston as the Grand High Witch, our hosts delve into this cult classic’s long-lasting sense of kindertrauma. Joining the conversation is drag icon Anna Phylactic, who discusses how growing up with this film forever impacted her aesthetic. Then, writer/producer Amanda Grace Collins stops by to dig into why this perennial fave continues to cast a spell. From mouse hunts to haunted paintings, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:25:02

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Episode 95: Beyond the Valley of the Dolls

10/2/2024
In a scene like this you get a contact-high! This week, Peaches and Michael are entering a world of super-octane girls in celebration of 1970’s BEYOND THE VALLEY OF THE DOLLS! In addition to discussing the ongoing legacy of filmmaker Russ Meyer, our hosts delve into this forever’s fave’s ability to strut between genres. Joining the conversation is Scissor Sister, DJ, and author Ana Matronic, who digs into the film’s female forward messaging, as well as its unique perspective on the music industry. Then, producer of TURA! THE TURA SATANA DOCUMENTARY, Siouxzan Perry stops by to reminisce on her adventures taking the stars of this cult classic out on the road. From the Carrie Nations to Roger Ebert and beyond, this episode has it all! Go! | ReplyForwardAdd reaction

Duration:01:37:42

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Episode 94: Mommie Dearest

9/17/2024
The meanest mother of them all! This week, Peaches and Michael are fetching the axe in celebration of 1981’s MOMMIE DEAREST! In addition to discussing this audacious portrait of Hollywood’s juggling of camp and severity, our hosts delve into the double standard women are held to when delivering larger than life performances. Joining the conversation is The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures' Director of Film Programs K.J. Relth-Miller, whose love of filmmaker Frank Perry helps provide insight on this cult classic’s reverential glamour. Then, A. Ashley Hoff, author of With Love, Mommie Dearest: The Making of an Unintentional Camp Classic, stops by to dig into how his deep love for this controversial motion picture led to him quite literally writing the book on the subject. From wire hangers to ice bowl facials, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:52:25

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Episode 93 - Elvira: Mistress of the Dark LIVE at the Academy Museum

9/4/2024
Unpleasant dreams! In this very special episode, Peaches and Michael are LIVE at the legendary Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in celebration of 1988’s ELVIRA: MISTRESS OF THE DARK! Recorded on site in the David Geffen Theater on July 19th, 2024, our hosts delve into how the maven of the macabre’s inaugural motion picture outing inspired generations of fans to follow. Joining the conversation is none other than the icon herself, Cassandra Peterson, who shares stories of the triumphs and challenges of bringing her cult fave character to the silver screen. From misbehaved poodles to auditioning superstars, this episode has it all! PLUS – all new studio interstitials reflecting on the night in question! Go, go, go!!!

Duration:01:00:44

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Episode 92: House

8/21/2024
The girls were…eaten! This week, Peaches and Michael take a deranged trip to the countryside in celebration of 1977’s HOUSE! In addition to discussing this fever dream fave’s place as a singular slice of psychedelic haunting, our hosts delve into the impactful imagery of ghost cats and severed fingers. Joining the conversation is music-industry manager and radio DJ Kelly Fitzpatrick, whose interest in the film’s unusual uniqueness led to a lifetime of love. Then, drag icon Louisianna Purchase stops by to dig into why this cult classic is an undeniably feminine fright. From floating heads to blood-spewing felines, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:38:35

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Episode 91: Clueless

7/31/2024
As if! This week, Peaches and Michael are rollin’ with the homies in celebration of 1995’s CLUELESS! In addition to discussing the sheer pop culture defining power of filmmaker Amy Heckerling, our hosts delve into how this forever fave cleverly subverts the tropes of classic teen cinema. Joining the conversation is drag icon Biqtch Puddin’, who shares how the smart character construction of Cher Horowitz continues to inspire her. Then, acclaimed host of SLAYERFEST 98 Ian Carlos Crawford stops by to talk about a lifetime of love for the film and its messages of queer empowerment! From Calvin Klein dresses to being a total Betty, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:24:25

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Episode 90 - Sainted Subgenre: Queer Horror

7/17/2024
The monsters are no longer in the closet! This week, Peaches and Michael dig into a “fearz” subgenre that’s near and dear to their hearts – QUEER HORROR! In addition to discussing how they’ve watched the cultural conversation around LGBTQIA+ representation in genre shift in real time, our hosts delve into the very real catharsis fright cinema provides for those who have faced the true horrors of society. Joining the conversation is acclaimed author Dr. Heather O. Petrocelli, whose life work has led to the definitive empirical study that links queer spectator ship and the horror genre. Then, celebrated author and playwright Sean Abley stops by to discuss penning one of the first “out” columns in Fangoria, as well as his years in the making work on a true encyclopedia of Queer Horror films. From Clive Barker’s bloodletting to the trans male fascination with werewolves and beyond, this episode has it all! GO!

Duration:01:36:40

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Episode 89 - Idol Worship: David Cronenberg

7/3/2024
Long live the new flesh! This week, Peaches and Michael are serving body in an Idol Worship celebration of David Cronenberg! In addition to discussing this notorious auteur’s penchant for exploring physical frights, our hosts delve into how audiences often react erotically to his particular brand of horror. Joining the conversation is acclaimed writer/editor Ally Melling, whose discovery of THE FLY at a young age led to a lifetime obsession with this groundbreaking filmmaker's oeuvre. Then, celebrated author Jared Stearns reveals how his work writing about the life of Marilyn Chambers led him deeper into the world of Cronenberg. From naked Russian bathhouse brawls to drippy bio-ports, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:29:47

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Episode 88: 9 To 5

6/19/2024
Pour yourself a cup of ambition! This week, Peaches and Michael are gathering around the watercooler in celebration of 1980’s 9 TO 5! In addition to discussing this undeniable classic’s crucial feminist messaging, our hosts delve into the power of Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton as pop culture defining powerhouses. Joining the conversation is horror icon Felissa Rose, who not only speaks to a deep obsession with this forever fave, but also unpacks what it means for women working in the industry and beyond. Then, drag legend Varla Jean Merman stops by to dig into how seeing the film as a kid helped cement her own approach to acting…and fostered a lifetime of inspiration. From M&Ms to Skinny & Sweet, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:31:23

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Episode 87 - Growing Up Cult: Joshua John Miller

6/5/2024
A true child of the popcorn! In this very special episode, Peaches and Michael sit down with iconic actor, writer, and filmmaker Joshua John Miller for an in-depth talk about a lifetime in cult cinema. In advance of his forthcoming feature THE EXORCISM, Joshua reflects on growing up with genre royalty for parents, living a punk lifestyle, and taking part in such pop culture defining fare as NEAR DARK, TEEN WITCH, RIVER'S EDGE, and more. Additionally, this singular creator speaks on the meta-aspects of storytelling that led to the creation of contemporary fave THE FINAL GIRLS, as well as his recent tale of a father possessed. From angsty vampires to Anthony Perkins, this episode has it all! Go!

Duration:01:00:52