Skip to main content

Posts

Hopping Vampires: History, Myth, Lore & Impact on Popular Entertainment

 Vampires have fascinated cultures across the globe for centuries, captivating the imagination with their immortal existence and insatiable thirst for blood. Whilst the folklore surrounding vampires is deeply ingrained in Western mythology, there is a lesser-known, equally mesmerizing realm of Asian hopping vampires. Steeped in regional traditions, they offer a unique perspective into the supernatural world.   These unique creatures, known by different names in various cultures such as "Jiangshi" in China and "Kyonshī" in Japan, have left a significant mark on folklore and popular culture. The origins of hopping vampires can be traced back to ancient Chinese beliefs during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It is believed that these creatures were created when a person's soul failed to leave the body after death due to improper burial or unfinished business. Over time, regional variations in beliefs and practices related to hopping vampires emerged. For example, whi...
Recent posts

History, Legends & Myths & The Shows & Movies They Inspired : The Wendigo

The wendigo is a creature from Algonquian folklore, but also deeply rooted in the history and legends of Native American tribes. It is a terrifying creature that has captured the imaginations of many, becoming a prominent figure in various myths and stories. According to legend, the wendigo is a malevolent spirit that possesses humans and transforms them into cannibalistic monsters. It is said to be a result of a person's greed and gluttony, causing them to resort to unthinkable acts of consuming human flesh. The origins of the wendigo can be traced back to the Algonquian-speaking tribes of the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. These tribes believed that the wendigo was a punishment for those who broke cultural taboos, particularly those related to food and hunger. The wendigo was often described as a tall, emaciated figure with glowing eyes and decaying skin. It was said to have an insatiable appetite for human flesh and was known to be extremely fast and agile, makin...

Review: Prince Of Darkness

Prince of Darkness is a horror film directed by John Carpenter. Released in 1987, the movie follows a group of scientists and graduate students as they uncover an ancient evil force that threatens to bring about the apocalypse. It centers around a large ancient canister filled with a green glowing, swirling liquid that has been kept and watched over by an ancient order of monks. (why do scary things always seem to glow green in horror movies.) The last of which has died before turning the duties over to someone else. Handling the whole mess is Donald Pleasence as "Priest".  Although his character is never referred to by his name in the movie, only referred to as priest, the dvd subtitles refer to him as Father Loomis. Can you figure out the correlation minions?  The film boasts an impressive cast, with Donald Pleasence as Father Loomis: A Catholic priest who joins the scientific investigation and becomes the spiritual guide in the battle against evil. Jameson Parker as Brian ...

Featured Movie & Review : Big Trouble in Little China

 I wanted to continue with my homage to the incredible John Carpenter with my thoughts on his film Big Trouble In Little China. It was a tough call considering he has quite a few brilliant, and memorable movies. However, there's time enough to cover those and who knows I might just do that this month. I guess you'll just have to wait and see darklings. In the mean time I'm giving a never before 5 out of 5 Zombie Claws to John Carpenter's unique classic Big Trouble In Little China. Read on to find out why! In the realm of 80s action-packed comedies, one film stands out for its over-the-top action, flamboyant characters, and unique blend of humor and fantasy: Big Trouble in Little China. Directed by John Carpenter and released in 1986, this cult classic has gained a devoted following over the years. Let's dive deeper into the world of Big Trouble in Little China and explore its incredible cast, fascinating storyline, and some fun facts along the way. Big Trouble in Li...

History, Legends & Myths & Movies It Inspired : Día de los Muertos - Day of the Dead

Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place in Mexico and certain parts of Latin America. This unique holiday, which occurs on November 1st and 2nd each year, is a time to honor and remember deceased loved ones.  The origins of Día de los Muertos can be traced back to ancient indigenous cultures of Mexico, such as the Aztecs, Mayans, and Toltecs. These ancient civilizations had a deep reverence for death and viewed it as a natural part of the human cycle. They believed that the souls of the departed would return to visit their families during this time.  When Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, they encountered these indigenous traditions and incorporated them into their own Catholic practices.  As a result, Día de los Muertos became intertwined with the Catholic holidays of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.  One of the most iconic symbols of Día de los Muertos is ...

History, Legends & Myths & The Shows & Movies It Inspired : Holiday Special - Halloween

 Halloween, also known as Samhain wasn't always, the freaky, fun, Hollywood monster filled spooky holiday we all love. No, it was a serious time of year, one for observing the last of the harvest days,  as well as remembering our dead ancestors.  It is a holiday celebrated on the eve of All Saints' Day, the first of November, and is widely recognized for its mysterious and festive atmosphere. Originating from ancient Celtic traditions, this holiday has evolved over time to become a beloved celebration marked by unique customs and traditions.  Halloween traces its roots back to the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain, as I mentioned. Celebrated by the Celts over 2,000 years ago, this festival marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It was believed that on this night, the boundary between the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to roam freely on Earth. With the advent of Christianity, the Catholic Church sought to incorporate p...