Neon Brainiacs Podcast Makes Horror Feel Like a Late-Night Hangout

Co-hosts Ben Dietels (Slaughter Drive) and Lance Parkin (The Boonies) draw from their experiences as lifelong horror fans and as filmmakers to provide a unique, intimate perspective on the works that inspire them. What started as a nostalgic dive into 1980s horror has, over the past several years, morphed into an often hilarious, decades-spanning look at everything from essential slashers to obscure arthouse gems and beyond.

Ben and Lance pack every Neon Brainiacs episode with fascinating trivia, in-depth film breakdowns, and the kind of behind-the-camera knowledge that can only come from two indie directors. They do it all with an irreverent, charmingly sophomoric sense of humour that recalls hanging out with cool older brothers out to be your best bad influence.

Along the way, Ben and Lance are joined by guests who offer their own takes on titles from cinema’s most misunderstood genre. The fans also get a say, as the duo turn to their Patreon and extremely active Discord channel for movie suggestions, ridiculous games, and general nonsense, lending a familial feel that evokes the sense of community that defines horror.

Whether you’re looking for a discussion on the finer points of VHS garbage or, inexplicably, an album-by-album review of Sugar Ray, Neon Brainiacs has that and more. Join their Patreon and Discord for perks like livestreamed screenings hosted by Ben and Lance, exclusive episodes, and chances to “Stump the Brainiacs” with your best horror trivia questions. Find them on your favourite podcast platform and join in on the fun as the Brainiacs determine what movies to buy, stream, goof, or skip.