Jo and Amelie dive deep into Barry's pilot episode, exploring how Bill Hader transforms from SNL comedian to complex hitman-turned-actor. We break down everything from Henry Winkler's perfect casting as Gene Cousineau to the brilliant way Barry stumbles into acting class while on a hit. Plus, Amelie brings fresh insights about the show's portrayal of LA's grittier side and the perfect musical moment with "Journal of Ardency." From the opening kill to the final scene in the cafe, we examine how this pilot episode earned its perfect critical scores and set up one of HBO's best dark comedies.

Show highlights:

 * Barry's transition from Midwest hitman to LA actor
 * The Chechens and NoHo Hank's introduction
 * Sally Reed's iconic acting class scene
 * Gene Cousineau's teaching methods
 * The episode's perfect bookend structure
 * Bill Hader's directorial achievements

Making Your Mark By Murder - Barry S1E1 Deep Dive

Join Jo and special guest Amelie as they launch their comprehensive deep-dive series into HBO's 'Barry'. In this pilot episode, they explore Bill Hader's transformation from SNL comedian to the complex character of Barry Berkman, a hitman seeking redemption in LA's theater scene. From uncinematic reality to authentic PTSD portrayal, discover why this dark comedy resonates so deeply with viewers. First in a 32-episode analysis series covering all seasons of Barry.

Key Topics: • Bill Hader's evolution from SNL to dramatic acting • The show's unique approach to "uncinematic reality" • Character analysis and authentic portrayal of post-military life • Why audiences returned after the pandemic pause • Preview of upcoming episode-by-episode analysis

🎙️ Streaming Demons Special Episode  🗓️ New episodes weekly

Barry Deep Dive #1: From Hitman to Hollywood - Breaking Down Bill Hader's Masterpiece with Jo and Amelie

Empty Hell presents a special Mother's Day episode with Amazon #1 bestselling author Jo Szewczyk (Surviving Gen X) and shark enthusiast JM Brannyk ranking horror's most memorable maternal figures. From Silent Hill's sacrificial love to a surprisingly deep analysis of maternal instincts in Jaws 3, this episode covers the good, the bad, and the downright terrifying mothers of horror.



Featured Discussions:

• Silent Hill - The Ultimate Mother's Story

• Aliens - Ripley vs The Queen

• Psycho - Norman's Mom Issues

• Child's Play - Single Mom Survival

• Jaws 3 - Maternal Instincts Under the Sea

• And many more maternal nightmares...



Hosts:

Jo Szewczyk - Amazon #1 bestselling author of "Surviving Gen X"

JM Brannyk - Shark enthusiast and Empty Hell regular



Find Empty Hell on:

Instagram:  @emptyhellllc

Blue Sky: @www.hauntedmtl.com

Jo Szewczyk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/czykmate



Horror's Best & Worst Horror Movie Moms | Mother's Day Special (Empty Hell)

In this unexpectedly heartfelt and chaotically hilarious episode, Jim Phoenix welcomes longtime friend and globetrotting co-host Amelie to talk all things Val Kilmer. From Willow to Batman Forever, The Doors, and the haunting brilliance of Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, they explore Kilmer’s transformation from underrated icon to personal inspiration. Along the way, they tackle bidets, jungle toilets, French TV, karaoke with Val himself, and what it means to live one day at a time. This isn't just a tribute to a chameleon actor—it's a reminder of why we love movies, and why we hold onto the people who love them too.

Val Kilmer: The Doors, The Batsuit, and the Bucket List

Join Jim Phoenix and J.M. Brannyk on this hilariously haunted episode of Streamin’ Demons as they rank their Top 10 Non-Exorcist Possession Films—from cult classics like Puppet Master and Prince of Darkness to wildcards like Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle. Expect possession without the priests, body-hopping demons, cursed prom dresses, and a whole lot of wiggle talk.

💀 Featuring:

 * Fallen with Denzel Washington
 * The Autopsy of Jane Doe
 * My Best Friend’s Exorcism
 * Jennifer’s Body
 * Evil Dead
 * ...and yes, even Harold & Kumar (because sliders = spiritual need)

Plus: behind-the-scenes chaos, Haunted MTL rebranding updates, upcoming projects, and the tease of a Bruce Campbell-a-thon.

👻 Weird? Check. Possessed? Double check.
🎧 Hit play, get spooky, and let the wiggle begin.

Top 10 Non-Exorcist Possession Films: From Puppet Masters to White Castles

In this special Podcast-a-thon episode of Streaming Demons, host Jim Phoenix dives into horror reviews and charity with a mix of sharp humor and real talk. First up, Jim reviews Shudder’s 825 Forest Road, a supernatural thriller with a Hell House LLC vibe, and The Rule of Jenny Penn, a psychological horror featuring John Lithgow and Jeffrey Rush that delivers eerie suspense with deep emotional weight.

Then, it’s time for the Podcast-a-thon Charity Spotlight, where Jim introduces JJ Cares, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit providing scholarships for the families of U.S. veterans to attend community college or trade school—no sky-high GPAs or standardized tests required, just a commitment to education.

Tune in for horror, humor, and a cause that matters. Hit play and spread the word!

91. PODCASTATHON: JJ Cares, 825 Forest Road, Rule of Jenny Pen

Streamin' Demons is back for Season 4! We kick things off with a deep dive into the best horror documentaries, including I Am Nancy, Boris Karloff: The Man Behind the Monster, Scream, Queen!, and the Nightmare on Elm Street doc. Plus, we review two brand-new horror films: Companion and A Knight's War. Get ready for chills, thrills, and all things horror! 🎃👹 #HorrorPodcast #HauntedMTL #StreaminDemons

90. Streamin’ Demons S4 Premiere: Top Horror Docs & New Chillers!

Join Jim Phoenix and Brannyk on the final 2024 episode of Streamin' Demons! From the feminist slasher vibes of Bloody Axe Wound to the body horror chaos of Replicator, and the over-the-top brilliance of Street Trash by the creator of Fried Barry, this episode dives into the weird, the gory, and the unforgettable. Plus, plenty of laughs, rants, and maybe a few ghosts. Don't miss this epic wrap-up of the year in indie horror! Like, subscribe, and melt the rich with us!

Plus, hear Jim kill Jeffrey Dean Morgan's name! All this and more...

Bloody Axe Wound, Replicator, and Street Trash - The Ultimate End-of-Year Horror Review

Join Jim Phoenix in this special bonus episode of Streamin' Demons as he dives into the intriguing documentary "A Cursed Man" and shares his thoughts on Joe Bob Briggs' Christmas Carnage. From voodoo curses to holiday horror, Jim gives you the lowdown on the latest must-watch content. Don't miss out on his candid review, hilarious commentary, and a sneak peek into upcoming episodes. Tune in now!

Streamin' Demons Bonus Episode: A Cursed Man & Joe Bob's Christmas Carnage

Join Jim Phoenix on Streamin' Demons for an exclusive early review of Nick Frost's latest horror-comedy, "Get Away" (2024). Discover why this 86-minute thrill ride is the perfect date night movie, blending humor and horror in true Nick Frost style. Jim dishes on the film's practical effects, unexpected Midsomer vibes, and why it's a must-see in theaters this December. Plus, find out how this movie compares to cult favorites like "Shaun of the Dead" and "Tusk". Get ready for a killer holiday with this can't-miss review!

Don't forget to see in theatres in December!

Nick Frost's 'Get Away':  National Lampoon's  Vacation Meets Tusk

Streamin' Demons is your bi-weekly guide through the vast world of streaming entertainment. Join host Jo Szewczyk and special guests as they dive deep into three carefully selected titles - from the latest releases to hidden gems and everything in between. Each 30-45 minute episode features unfiltered reviews, engaging discussions, and authentic reactions that help you decide what to watch next. Whether you're a casual viewer or a dedicated binge-watcher, our candid conversations and expert insights will keep you informed and entertained. Subscribe now to join our growing community of streaming enthusiasts!

🎬 New episodes every other week ⏱️ Quick, focused 30-45 minute format 👥 Featured guests and expert perspectives 📺 Coverage across all major streaming platforms