The Witch Movie Project

Two movies. Two lenses. One drive-in sensibility for witchcraft on screen. The Witch Movie Project is a horror movie podcast hosted by Just Blane (CEO, Ride The Wave Media) and Courtney Pearl (host of Practically Magick, and a real-world practitioner of paganism and witchcraft). Blane brings the drive-in movie host tradition to witch cinema — the same lineage as legends like Joe Bob Briggs, who turned schlocky monster movies and cult horror into genuine film scholarship one host segment at a time. Every episode pairs two films built around witches, witchcraft, or folk horror, and Blane digs into the production history, casting drama, and behind-the-scenes trivia the way only a lifelong drive-in horror obsessive can, while Courtney separates Hollywood's version of magic from the real thing — spellcraft, ritual, and the actual history behind the myths. This isn't a straight movie review show. It's a genre deep-dive with a host who talks about witch movies the way Joe Bob talks about drive-in classics — equal parts reverence and roast — paired with a co-host who actually knows the craft the movies are trying to depict. Episodes so far cover: The Wicker Man (1973) vs. Midsommar (2019) — the DNA of folk horror Suspiria (1977) vs. Suspiria (2018) — Dario Argento's witch masterpiece, remade The Craft (1996) vs. Teen Witch (1989), plus an interview with Teen Witch star Robyn Lively The Love Witch (2016) vs. Autopsy of Jane Doe — modern folk horror Kiki's Delivery Service vs. Howl's Moving Castle — Miyazaki's witches Practical Magic (1998) vs. The Witches of Eastwick (1987) — sisterhood, curses, and Sandra Bullock vs. Nicole Kidman's dueling shooting styles Return to Oz (1985) vs. Hereditary (2018) — recorded live on location in the cemetery where Hereditary was filmed Whether you're a horror fan raised on drive-in double features, a practicing witch, or just here for the pop culture, The Witch Movie Project gives you real film history and real magical history in the same conversation. Full video versions available for anyone who'd rather watch than listen. [the full show archive] → https://www.ridethewave.media/witch-movie-project/ [watch full video episodes] → https://youtube.com/@ridethewavemediapodcast [explore the Ride The Wave Media network] → https://www.ridethewave.media The Witch Movie Project is part of the Ride The Wave Media network — home to Practically Magick, Parallel Frequencies, Yes And Land, and more. If you love drive-in horror hosts, witch movies, folk horror, or paganism, hit follow so you never miss an episode.

  1. 09/14/2024

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 1 - 'The Wicker Man (1973)' vs 'Midsommar'

    Welcome to the thrilling debut episode of The Witch Movie Project! Join our fabulous hosts, Courtney Pearl and Just Blane, as they embark on a spine-tingling journey through the eerie world of folk horror. In this episode, they dive deep into two iconic films that have left audiences both fascinated and disturbed: "The Wicker Man" (1973) and "Midsommar" (2019). Get ready for a wild ride as Courtney and Blane unravel the intricate details, hidden symbolism, and downright creepy scenes that make these movies unforgettable. From bizarre rituals and eerie traditions to powerful commentary on community and belief systems, this episode is a must-listen for horror buffs and film geeks alike. Trust us, you won't want to miss it! Chapters: (00:00) Ride the wave and novel daybreak present the witch movie project (05:14) One of these folk horror movies started this whole thing, right (08:14) The first movie we're talking about is the Wicker man from 1977 (08:44) Christopher Lee says this is his favorite movie to be in (10:21) Edward Woodward plays Sergeant Howie on the Scottish island in the movie (12:15) When Sergeant Howey is interviewing people, he cannot get a straight answer (16:13) You got the naked dance from her. Interesting. I do think the movie was banned for a little bit (19:20) Green man is something that's very well known in neo pagan circles (19:55) A lot of the stuff in this movie is from actual pagan influences (21:37) Now, now, what other symbology or symbolism did you catch in the movie (24:44) You see symbols of death and rebirth all through this movie (27:04) There is this huge clash between religion and culture in this movie (32:25) No animals were harmed in the making of this movie, however (33:55) The movie is a powerful commentary on clash of beliefs versus power of community (35:50) Wicker is sticking to his christian beliefs even to the very end (37:06) This is a breakup movie. It's tough to watch. I enjoy this movie, but not in a joyful way (37:57) Pay attention to the mural in the opening sequence and any murals (43:10) The film doesn't steer away from showing graphic sexual content (43:41) Florence Pugh gives an incredible performance in Danny (44:12) Christian makes Danny feel like she does not belong on this trip (46:04) There's lots of foreshadowing in the beginning of the film (47:56) So they land in Stockholm and then have a four hour drive to Horga (51:54) I love how he was the one that was all about, everybody do this (52:17) The movie talks about making offerings to the sun a lot in this movie (57:07) The movie opens in a barn where children sleep from zero to 18 (59:51) A test to pa is a ritual of elderly being let go on purpose (01:01:19) Number nine is really significant in mythology. So the number nine shows up a lot (01:04:56) This is one of the most disturbing scenes you'll see in a movie ever (01:08:33) Danny goes from being unwanted, isolated, undrafted to team member (01:12:22) This is where you get into some of the more inhumane practices (01:16:00) This is definitely a movie you gotta watch twice. It sticks with you after you watch (01:20:10) It seemed to me that Danny was just getting pulled along (01:22:34) You either get a happy ending or you don't, Wickerman says (01:27:02) Um, the friend that pulls her into the dance is wearing this on her tunic (01:27:38) These two movies stand out to me as significant examples of folk horror (01:30:49) Is this real? Is there somewhere doing this kind of stuff (01:33:51) Lord Summer Isle plays a very hierarchical role in Wicker Man (01:34:38) This is where the people at home can vote on a movie Sponsors: Novel Daybreak

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 1 - 'The Wicker Man (1973)' vs 'Midsommar'
  2. 09/20/2024

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 2 - 'Suspiria' (1977) vs. 'Suspiria' (2018)

    *Watch The Full Episode On YouTube!* In this spine-chilling episode of The Witch Movie Project, join hosts Courtney Pearl and Just Blane as they delve into the eerie world of "Suspiria." This week, they dissect both the original 1977 masterpiece by Dario Argento and the 2018 reimagining by Luca Guadagnino. Prepare for an in-depth discussion on the unsettling visuals, haunting soundtracks, and the layered storytelling that makes each version a unique experience. From the vibrant, technicolor nightmare of Argento’s film to the multi-layered, politically charged atmosphere of Guadagnino’s interpretation, Courtney and Blane leave no stone unturned. They explore the intricate dance sequences, the disturbing murder scenes, and the deep lore of the three mothers, all while drawing comparisons and highlighting the distinct elements that set these films apart. Chapters: (00:00) Ride the wave and novel daybreak by Crescent communities present the Witch movie project (01:39) Let's go to this episode. Let's get to these two movies (01:58) Suspiria is a 1970 horror movie by Dario Argento (06:10) Both 1977 and 2018 versions have giallo style shots (09:44) That was the most disturbing murder scene in a movie ever (11:52) We get to Susie's first day at the academy and it's weird (14:34) So Susie moves into Olga's apartment and weird stuff starts happening (18:08) The maggots falling from the ceiling sent me running from the theater (19:11) Now, now let's talk about the men that we see in this movie (23:39) The dog eats Daniel, which is really graphic and nice and graphic (24:29) There's a high body count for a movie here (28:52) My only criticism of the 1977 version is that the folklore is glossed over (35:24) Do you think they were using Sarah's body for the ritual (38:14) There was multiple languages involved on the set. A lot of scenes had no audio dubbed later (40:37) Now we're at the climax. It's literally, boom, the climax (41:51) There was a lot of propaganda against witchcraft and against witches over the centuries (43:28) I really loved going to the 2018 version and being able to see more layers (45:26) I've already messed up and called the 2018 remake a remake (48:28) The mirrors come into play later in the movie. And I think they use the mirrors, too (50:51) I had to shut my eyes for most of it. It was too real (51:26) The 2018 movie Suspiria is definitely multilayered (56:30) I second guessed whether this actor is an older man or not (57:15) Tilda Swinton plays Doctor Clipper in the new film (58:47) This really is an Oscar performance. And how did the makeup team not win an Oscar for this (01:01:49) Did you notice anything connected to witchcraft in either of these movies (01:03:07) This movie is quite a bit longer than the first one (01:06:41) Suzy is preparing to give up her body to Helena Marcos (01:10:24) Doctor Klepper already suspects because he's talking to Susie and Sarah (01:12:17) There was very little CGI used in the Vogue dance scene (01:16:09) Mother Marcos ends up being actually mother suspirium (01:20:29) There's an after credit scene that leaves viewers wondering what happens next (01:23:44) 2018 had Tom York from Radiohead score for a movie (01:28:08) Next week we have much tamer witch movies Don’t forget to vote for your favorite version of "Suspiria" and share your thoughts with us on social media. All this leads up to our big event on October 26, presented by Novel Daybreak by Crescent Communities. Join us for a live podcast taping and movie screening, and don’t miss the chance to dress up and join the spooky fun! Suspiria (1977) [IMDb: Suspiria (1977)](a href="http

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 2 - 'Suspiria' (1977) vs. 'Suspiria' (2018)
  3. 10/02/2024

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 3 - 'The Craft' (1996) vs 'Teen Witch' (1989) + Exclusive Interview w/ Robyn Lively!

    *Watch The Full Episode On YouTube!*   In this electrifying episode of The Witch Movie Project, hosts Courtney Pearl and Just Blane dive into the magical realms of "Teen Witch" (1989) and "The Craft" (1996). This week, they not only discuss these iconic films but also share an exclusive interview with Robyn Lively, star of "Teen Witch."   Join Courtney and Blane as they explore the nostalgic charm and deeper themes of these teenage witchcraft classics. From the cheesy yet endearing musical numbers of "Teen Witch" to the dark, gothic atmosphere of "The Craft," our hosts break down the similarities and differences that make these films unforgettable. Discover the hidden symbolism, memorable soundtracks, and the empowering messages that resonate through both movies.   Chapters: (00:00) Crescent communities present the witch movie project. I know it's a couple days late (01:24) October 26 is when we will be screening two teen witch movies (06:25) The 1989 teen witch was Hollywood's response to teen Wolf (07:03) Teen witch and teen wolf originally had a crossover (08:10) There was no soundtrack to teen witch, which is interesting (11:27) Courtney: This is the first time I have seen this movie (13:57) Joshua Miller plays the brother in the new movie with Russell Crowe (15:21) Darren Stevens from Bewitched makes cameo appearance in this movie (17:06) In this movie, Louise discovers she has powers when she turns 16 (20:04) The plot is super simple. We're not really following along with the movie (22:38) I loved how Robyn lively dressed up in eighties style in this movie (27:17) This movie is taking me back to high school so hardcore (30:00) I have a phobia of snakes. If I see a one, I freeze up (32:57) When Rachel true got cast is Rochelle. And she was the first one cast of the four girls (33:42) They said teens practicing black magic was the only reason they gave it an r rating (37:46) Someone from the movie actually bought the magical witch shop in Santa Monica (38:43) How did you like the soundtrack to this movie? This one was a banger from the beginning (39:56) Alicia Silverstone Washington considered playing Sarah in clueless (40:32) A lot of this comes from the wiccan faith, right (46:23) Are all witches wiccan? No. I'm glad you asked that (47:29) Ben Brady: Scene where Nancy tries witchcraft had me shook (51:44) In the first episode of practically magic, we talk about curses (55:31) Sarah goes into her ego self as she's driving the car (01:00:11) Scott says witchcraft is used to empower women in situations where they feel helpless (01:04:28) There's a theory that Sarah was the only actual witch (01:07:27) Rachel true has dabbled in witchcraft in her personal life (01:08:27) Teen witch in the craft. Two great movies. So much more similar than I would have thought (01:09:08) Courtney: Getting to meet Robyn Lively was incredible experience (01:10:12) Robyn Lively and Courtney Pearl break down two witch movies (01:10:54) The movie 1989 is about empowering young women, and the message still holds up (01:12:13) Did you get that amulet? I did. Did you? Yes, yes. You can. What's it take? Just a few dollars   Don’t miss the chance to hear Robyn Lively share her experiences and insights about "Teen Witch," and be sure to join us for our big event on October 26, presented by Novel Daybreak by Crescent Communities. Enjoy a live podcast taping, movie screening, and a fun-filled costume contest with exciting prizes!   Teen Witch (1989) [IMDb: Teen Witch (1989)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098453/) The Craft (1996) [IM

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 3 - 'The Craft' (1996) vs 'Teen Witch' (1989) + Exclusive Interview w/ Robyn Lively!
  4. 10/11/2024

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 4 - 'Love Witch' (2016) vs 'Autopsy of Jane Doe' (2016)

    *Watch The Full Episode On YouTube!*   In this captivating episode of The Witch Movie Project, hosts Courtney Pearl and Just Blane explore the enchanting and chilling worlds of "The Love Witch" and "The Autopsy of Jane Doe." This week, they delve into the unique art direction, compelling themes, and haunting performances that make these 2016 films unforgettable.   Join Courtney and Blane as they dissect the vibrant technicolor homage to the '60s and '70s in "The Love Witch," starring Samantha Robinson, and the eerie, claustrophobic tension of "The Autopsy of Jane Doe," featuring Brian Cox and Emile Hirsch. Discover the symbolism, feminist undertones, and the chilling exploration of witchcraft and empowerment that these films bring to life.   (00:00) Crescent communities present the witch movie project (00:49) The wits movie project is gearing up for an October 26 screening (02:24) The love Witch and the autopsy of Jane Doe came out in 2016 (03:31) First up, what about the art direction? Like, it's stunning. It looks like sixties, seventies (06:37) Both of these movies have naked witches. Yep. One movie you got the witch who lays naked the entire time (08:52) The cinematography makes this movie look like it was made in the 1960s (10:47) Get into the tarot cards and the artwork because there's a lot (11:39) She talks about how she decorated the apartment based on the thoth tarot (12:57) Let me ask you that, though, on the tarot cards. Wow. You have a lot of those bright colors (14:05) Anytime I can tie witches into video games, that'd be awesome (14:53) The film explores themes of love, obsession, and power dynamics between men (19:03) What is the director really trying to show here? Uh, with a female director (19:30) Jennifer Couch's acting is perfect in this movie. It transports me back in time (20:26) Rachel: Tara was doing a tarot reading in the movie (23:10) Five of cups means emotional turmoil in Tarot (24:10) There's a lot of symbolism in the rituals that they're performing (26:17) Uh, my final thoughts on Love Witch is I think it's a classic (28:17) You're using menstrual cycle to attract blood in witchcraft (29:53) Final thought is in the tarot. So you see Richard, the married man (32:05) Ed says the main character in Jane Doe never moves in this movie (36:52) There's gotta be some detachment in doing that job (37:19) Brian Cox studied with coroners to learn how to do autopsies (37:56) There's a parts in this movie that I have a hard time watching (41:05) Stephen King called this movie the most terrifying movie he ever saw (45:02) You go through an entire autopsy, like. This is not just watching a movie (49:01) There's a breaking point right about halfway in the movie (50:45) The dynamic between father and son in this movie is fascinating (53:50) It's even more intense when you don't see what's attacking them (55:33) This movie was inspired by the conjuring of Andre Overdahl (01:01:22) Liz: I hope nothing happens to Tommy and Austin (01:03:54) You got any final thoughts on this movie before we wrap this one up (01:07:53) If you like Jane Doe, you got to check out Sushi Girl (01:09:01) Courtney Jordan recommends the book Curious Life of human cadavers   Don’t miss the chance to join us for our big event on October 26, presented by Novel Daybreak by Crescent Communities. Enjoy a live podcast taping, movie screening, and a thrilling costume contest with exciting prizes! Whether you're a fan of witchy aesthetics or psychological horror, this episode is a must-listen.   The Love Witch (2016) [IMDb: The Love Witch (2016)](a href="https://www.imdb.com/ti

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 4 - 'Love Witch' (2016)  vs 'Autopsy of Jane Doe' (2016)
  5. 10/15/2024

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 5 - 'The Blair Witch Project' (1999) vs 'The VVitch' (2015)

    *Watch The Full Episode On YouTube!*   In this thrilling episode of The Witch Movie Project, hosts Courtney Pearl and Just Blane venture into the haunting realms of "The Blair Witch Project" (1999) and "The Witch" (2015). These films have not only defined genres but have also left lasting impressions on audiences worldwide.   Join Courtney and Blane as they unravel the terrifying and innovative storytelling techniques that made "The Blair Witch Project" a cultural phenomenon, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Discover the genius behind its marketing strategy and how it sparked a wave of found footage films. Then, delve into the atmospheric and historically accurate world of "The Witch," directed by Robert Eggers. Explore the chilling themes, symbolic imagery, and the masterful use of natural lighting that create an immersive 17th-century experience.   (00:00) Crescent communities present the Witch movie project. This is the found footage version of our podcast (02:48) People thought after the movie came out, the Blair witch was real (06:14) This is the first time I actually watched the movie (11:21) This movie, relic movie thinking. Movie history, right? Movie relics. Maybe we should go out there and find that thing (11:55) The banter and everything in the movie seems so natural because they were not given scripts (17:04) There's one crazy scene in there where it's pitch dark (21:06) Some of the best movies are the most polarizing (23:14) The movie was created out of folklore of witches being in the woods (29:28) Would you watch this movie again? Did you like it (32:12) Robert Eggers' latest film is set in the 1630s (33:17) This movie, though, the atmosphere, uh, it's bleak (33:55) The Puritans are banished from England because they don't believe church is rigid (39:01) I love the spoken dialogue in this movie. I love the way they talked (40:52) Robert Eggers just did Nosferatu, which is awesome (42:11) The folklore behind witches taking babies and children is very common (43:40) The silver cup is missing, and their corn is failing (46:22) You mentioned the corn being fungus in the background of the movie (47:59) Matt: Did you think that Thomasin was a witch the entire time (51:24) There's a part where mercy and Jonas cannot finish Lord's prayer (55:54) There's a lot of folklore around witches. Like they can shape shift into animals (01:00:24) What about black Phillip overall? Tell us about Black Phillip and the goat lore (01:07:35) These women have nobody telling them what to do in 24 movies (01:08:42) What's your final thought on the witch? I think that the thread of both (01:09:50) Robert Eggers' vovitch the witch was an incredible watch (01:11:31) Courtney: That's a nightmare inducing shot. It is. I had to go back and rewind it (01:12:20) You got to decide out of those two movies which one you liked best   Don’t miss the opportunity to join us for an unforgettable event on October 26, presented by Novel Daybreak by Crescent Communities. Enjoy a live podcast taping, movie screening, and a spine-chilling costume contest with fantastic prizes from Land of a Thousand Hills coffee shop. Whether you're a fan of found footage or atmospheric horror, this episode is a must-listen.   The Blair Witch Project (1999) [IMDb: The Blair Witch Project (1999)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0185937/) The Witch (2015) [IMDb: The Witch (2015)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4263482/) Robert Eggers [Robert Eggers - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm32

    The Witch Movie Project Ep 5 - 'The Blair Witch Project' (1999) vs 'The VVitch' (2015)
  6. 10/17/2024

    The Witch Movie Project Ep. 6 - 'Kiki's Delivery Service' (1989) vs 'Howl's Moving Castle' (2004) + A Nod to 'Spirited Away' (2001)

    *Watch The Full Episode On YouTube!*   In this enchanting episode of The Witch Movie Project, join hosts Courtney Pearl and Just Blane as they venture into the magical worlds of "Kiki's Delivery Service" and "Howl's Moving Castle." This week, they explore the captivating artistry and empowering themes that make these Hayao Miyazaki classics timeless treasures.   Courtney and Blane dive into the stunning animation, the inspiring female role models, and the whimsical storytelling that define these films. Discover how "Kiki's Delivery Service" showcases a young witch's journey to independence and self-discovery, while "Howl's Moving Castle" presents a tale of transformation and courage amidst the chaos of war. The hosts also touch upon the cultural significance and the universal appeal of these beloved anime masterpieces.   (00:00) Ride the wave and novel daybreak present the witch movie project (02:17) Liv cake parties is gonna decorate the event (03:24) Let's talk about two movies slash three, maybe bonus. Yeah, we're going to kind of add in that bonus movie (04:31) You got transported. Transported to an, uh. anime universe (05:02) Courtney Hill says she put anime off because it seemed cheesy (11:15) Who is voice, the english voice? Um, Phil Hartman (13:28) Wittc h: Miyazaki does a great job with female role models (17:57) Tombo is the young boy who becomes a good friend to Kiki (21:44) Besoms were used by witches to clean their house, um, (23:57) Kiki loses her powers, but she gets them back through friendship (26:18) Hal: Howl's moving castle is a fantasy romance with some wit (28:11) Gene Simmons, old Sophie, Billy Crystal. Go through the rest of those people that are voices in this (29:24) Howl's moving castle was inspired by a book by Diana Wynne Jones (32:02) Sophie gets harassed by soldiers in the beginning of the movie (34:23) I think anime got a bad rap somewhere along the way (36:35) Old Sophie wakes up, she's like 90 years old in her body (39:43) Howl howls against the war that's happening in this novel (41:04) Sophie takes care of the witch of the waste in the movie (43:09) Spirited away is our, like, third we have to mention (43:51) All of these movies have this sort of theme of transporting into another world (46:53) The war going on. I want to also note that that was not in the novel (47:52) I want to point out that throughout the movie, you see Sophie break the curse of being old (50:31) Ride the Wave media is hosting a Halloween party in October   Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in these beautifully crafted worlds and join us for our big event on October 26, presented by Novel Daybreak by Crescent Communities. Enjoy a live podcast taping, movie screening, and a costume contest with exciting prizes! Whether you're a fan of anime or simply love a good story, this episode is a must-listen.   Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) [IMDb: Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097814/) Howl's Moving Castle (2004) [IMDb: Howl's Moving Castle (2004)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0347149/) Hayao Miyazaki [Hayao Miyazaki - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0594503/) Phil Hartman [Phil Hartman - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0367005/) Kirsten Dunst [Kirsten Dunst - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000379/) Christian Bale [Christian Bale - IMDb](https://www.imdb

    The Witch Movie Project Ep. 6 - 'Kiki's Delivery Service' (1989) vs 'Howl's Moving Castle' (2004) + A Nod to 'Spirited Away' (2001)
  7. 10/17/2024

    BONUS: Exclusive Interview w/ Anime Queen Ryan Bartley

    *Watch The Full Episode On YouTube!*   In this bonus episode of The Witch Movie Project, hosts Courtney Pearl and Just Blane dive into the magical world of anime with a special focus on two classics: "Kiki's Delivery Service" and "Howl's Moving Castle." This episode is a delightful surprise for anime enthusiasts, featuring an exclusive interview with the prolific voice actress, Ryan Bartley, known for her work in over 170 anime and video games.   Join Courtney and Blane as they explore Ryan's journey in the anime industry, her love for Miyazaki films, and her role as a voice actress. Discover how Ryan's passion for anime and voice acting has shaped her career, and listen as she shares her experiences working on beloved films like "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire." Ryan also discusses the challenges and rewards of being a voice actor, offering inspiring messages of hope and encouragement for those pursuing their dreams.   (00:00) This is a bonus episode with the anime classics Kiki and Howl (01:33) Ryan Bartley loves anime. Did you really enjoy anime growing up (03:55) Arnold has been doing voiceover since he was a kid (05:19) Acting is a lot of rejection, so how do you deal with it (09:25) Ryan Gosling talks about working on the latest Ghostbusters movie (11:23) Courtney says she would love to do voiceover work someday   Don't miss the chance to hear Ryan Bartley's insightful conversation and join us for our big event on October 26, presented by Novel Daybreak by Crescent Communities. Enjoy a live podcast taping, movie screening, and a thrilling costume contest with exciting prizes! Whether you're a fan of anime or witchy themes, this episode is a must-listen.   Kiki's Delivery Service [IMDb: Kiki's Delivery Service](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097814/) Howl's Moving Castle [IMDb: Howl's Moving Castle](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0347149/) Ryan Bartley [Ryan Bartley - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3211470/)

    BONUS: Exclusive Interview w/ Anime Queen Ryan Bartley

About

Two movies. Two lenses. One drive-in sensibility for witchcraft on screen. The Witch Movie Project is a horror movie podcast hosted by Just Blane (CEO, Ride The Wave Media) and Courtney Pearl (host of Practically Magick, and a real-world practitioner of paganism and witchcraft). Blane brings the drive-in movie host tradition to witch cinema — the same lineage as legends like Joe Bob Briggs, who turned schlocky monster movies and cult horror into genuine film scholarship one host segment at a time. Every episode pairs two films built around witches, witchcraft, or folk horror, and Blane digs into the production history, casting drama, and behind-the-scenes trivia the way only a lifelong drive-in horror obsessive can, while Courtney separates Hollywood's version of magic from the real thing — spellcraft, ritual, and the actual history behind the myths. This isn't a straight movie review show. It's a genre deep-dive with a host who talks about witch movies the way Joe Bob talks about drive-in classics — equal parts reverence and roast — paired with a co-host who actually knows the craft the movies are trying to depict. Episodes so far cover: The Wicker Man (1973) vs. Midsommar (2019) — the DNA of folk horror Suspiria (1977) vs. Suspiria (2018) — Dario Argento's witch masterpiece, remade The Craft (1996) vs. Teen Witch (1989), plus an interview with Teen Witch star Robyn Lively The Love Witch (2016) vs. Autopsy of Jane Doe — modern folk horror Kiki's Delivery Service vs. Howl's Moving Castle — Miyazaki's witches Practical Magic (1998) vs. The Witches of Eastwick (1987) — sisterhood, curses, and Sandra Bullock vs. Nicole Kidman's dueling shooting styles Return to Oz (1985) vs. Hereditary (2018) — recorded live on location in the cemetery where Hereditary was filmed Whether you're a horror fan raised on drive-in double features, a practicing witch, or just here for the pop culture, The Witch Movie Project gives you real film history and real magical history in the same conversation. Full video versions available for anyone who'd rather watch than listen. [the full show archive] → https://www.ridethewave.media/witch-movie-project/ [watch full video episodes] → https://youtube.com/@ridethewavemediapodcast [explore the Ride The Wave Media network] → https://www.ridethewave.media The Witch Movie Project is part of the Ride The Wave Media network — home to Practically Magick, Parallel Frequencies, Yes And Land, and more. If you love drive-in horror hosts, witch movies, folk horror, or paganism, hit follow so you never miss an episode.

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