The Monstrous Image – Horror in Graphic Novels (Something is Killing the Children and Universal’s Frankenstein)
In this episode of Horror Joy, hosts Brian Onishi and Jeff Stoyanoff explore the portrayal of monsters in the realm of comics and graphic novels. They dive into the complex narratives, dissecting the horror genre as seen in James Tynion IV’s ‘Something is Killing the Children’ and Michael Walsh’s ‘Universal Monsters: Frankenstein’.
In this episode we:
· Revisit the gothic elements of Robert Eggers’ 2024 film Nosferatu, pointing out the underlying themes of predation and power
· Identify major themes of childhood, power, and authority in “Something is Killing the Children” and “Frankenstein”
· Discuss how these stories reflect societal fears, the current political landscape, and the power dynamics in contemporary America
· Share the joy they find in these graphic narratives, highlighting the importance of art and imagination in provoking thought and emotional engagement
00:00 Introduction to Monsters in Comics
01:01 Exploring ‘Something is Killing the Children’
01:28 Universal Monsters: Frankenstein’s Perspective
02:17 Welcome to Horror Joy
02:48 Nosferatu and the Gothic Elements
08:47 Frankenstein: The Gothic and Modern Anxieties
20:42 Frankenstein’s Creation and Ecological Allegories
26:40 Upcoming Release: The EcoWeird
26:44 Diving into ‘Something is Killing the Children’
27:21 Why This Comic Stands Out
29:04 Teaching the Comic: Student Reactions
31:31 Plot and Themes of ‘Something is Killing the Children’
37:33 Comparisons and Cultural Reflections
39:19 The Real Horror: Societal Issues
47:42 Finding Joy in Graphic Novels
52:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts