Dr. Brian Onishi, associate professor of Philosophy, and Dr. Jeff Stoyanoff, assistant professor of English and Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies, released a new episode, "The Babadook: Queerness in the Basement with S. Trimble," of their podcast, Horror Joy.
ALTOONA, Pa. — Penn State Altoona faculty members Brian Onishi, associate professor of philosophy, and Jeff Stoyanoff, assistant professor of English and of women's, gender and sexuality studies, have released a new episode of their "Horror Joy" podcast. In the latest episode, the hosts delve into Barry Levinson's 2012 found footage horror film, “The Bay.”
Set during a disastrous Fourth of July celebration in Claridge, Maryland, the film intertwines environmental horror with a mockumentary format. The story follows reporter Donna Thompson as she navigates through a town descending into chaos due to a waterborne outbreak.
Drawing parallels to “Jaws,” the hosts examine how “The Bay” critiques human neglect and environmental irresponsibility while utilizing modern technology to heighten its impact. They also explore themes of surveillance, the narrative coherence of found footage and the unsettling reality it brings to life.
The episode underscores how horror can reveal uncomfortable truths about our world, sparking a rich discussion on the intersections of joy, terror and societal reflection.
The full episode can be accessed on podcast providers or on Red Circle. Learn more about the "Horror Joy" podcast online.
