Magick Matters

29.01.2022

“Uncanny Bodies: The Coming of Sound Film and the Origins of the Horror Genre” by Robert Spadoni

Magick Matters

"In 1931 Universal Pictures released Dracula and Frankenstein, two films that inaugurated the horror genre in Hollywood cinema. These films appeared directly on the heels of Hollywood's transition to sound film. Uncanny Bodies argues that the coming of sound inspired more in these massively influential horror movies than screams, creaking doors, and howling wolves. A close examination of the historical reception of films of the transition period reveals that sound films could seem to their earliest viewers unreal and ghostly. By comparing this audience impression to the first sound horror films, Robert Spadoni makes a case for understanding film viewing as a force that can powerfully shape both the minutest aspects of individual films...>>

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29.01.2022

“Dark Dreams 2.0: A Psychological History of the Modern Horror Film from the 1950s to the 21st Century” by Charles Derry

Magick Matters

"Greatly expanded and updated from the 1977 original, this new edition explores the evolution of the modern horror film, particularly as it reflects anxieties associated with the atomic bomb, the Cold War, 1960s violence, sexual liberation, the Reagan revolution, 9/11 and the Iraq War. It divides modern horror into three varieties (psychological, demonic and apocalyptic) and demonstrates how horror cinema represents the popular expression of everyday fears while revealing the forces that influence American ideological and political values. Directors given a close reading include Alfred Hitchcock, Brian De Palma, David Cronenberg, Guillermo Del Toro, Michael Haneke, Robert Aldrich, Mel Gibson and George A. Romero. Additional material discusses postmodern remakes, horror franchises and Asian millennial...>>

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29.01.2022

“The Pleasure and Pain of Cult Horror Films: An Historical Survey” by Bartlomiej Paszylk

Magick Matters

"The horror genre harbors a number of films too bold or bizarre to succeed with mainstream audiences, but offering unique, startling and often groundbreaking qualities that have won them an enduring following. Beginning with Victor Sjostrom's The Phantom Carriage in 1921, this book tracks the evolution and influence of underground cult horror over the ensuing decades, closing with William Winckler's Frankenstein vs. the Creature from Blood Cove in 2005. It discusses the features that define a cult film, trends and recurring symbols, and changing iconography within the genre through insightful analysis of 88 movies. Included are works by popular directors who got their start with cult horror films, including Oliver Stone, David Cronenberg and...>>

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29.01.2022

“Faeries & Elementals for Beginners: Learn About & Communicate With Nature Spirits” by Alexandra Chauran

Magick Matters

"Explore the magical world where nature spirits dwell. From sprites to will-o'-the-wisps, this practical beginner's guide introduces you to a wide assortment of wild and wondrous creatures. Discover how to attract faeries and elementals to your home and garden, as well as how to befriend them. Along with step-by-step instructions for safely finding and interacting with these powerful creatures, you'll also learn how to: Identify faeries and elementals associated with each of the four classic elements—air, fire, water, and earth Perform rituals, meditations, and exercises that help you connect with nature spirits on a personal level Request help from faeries and elementals for healing, protection,...>>

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29.01.2022

“Book of Spells” by Milla Walsh

Magick Matters

"The Book of Spells by Milla Walsh contains over a hundred magical spells and rituals for use by practitioners of Wicca or Witchcraft. This book specializes in powerful spells specifically designed for the solo witch with strong focus on calling for simple ingredients most of which will already be on hand. Included are bottle spells, incorporating your strong magic into glass to provide day in, day out protection or manifestation of your intent, and ritual baths to cleanse, to protect, or to enhance. Chant out loud to promote change, produce calm, or banish negativity. Chant silently when you need to work your magic in secret. Chanting is a fast and simple way to work your magic when...>>

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