Some of your favorite RIOTERS & Friends are at Union Market today to defend our picks for best monster scenes in the movies. Join us for FREE at the Lightreel Film Festival, jump into the debate, and get geeky with us:
BIG MONSTER FEELINGS: Iconic Scenes, No Scares (55 mins)
Let’s get critical about the monsters we love because we’re going all-in on BIG MONSTER FEELINGS. With the cultural buzz around Sinners and the excitement for fresh takes on Frankenstein, this year’s theme tackles the emotional, awe-inspiring, and downright unforgettable moments that make movies better because of their monsters. From vampire thrills to loving amphibian men and 393-foot kaiju, this panel dives deep into the scenes that make these movie monsters iconic. Featuring some of our favorite cinephiles, each scene will be shown and broken down layer by layer. Come ready to share your thoughts, this panel is free, open to the public, and designed for audience participation. Don’t miss your chance to dive deep into the monster scenes that leave us wide-eyed, crying, and cheering!
Part of the series: Let’s Get Critical: The Scenes that Make the Movies
Saturday, June 7, 12:00 pm
Lab 1270 at Union Market
1272 5th Street NE
(between O-Ku Japanese Restaurant and Ron David Studio Boutique)
Panelists
Jen Chaney
Jen Chaney is a long-time film and TV critic who has written for Vulture, The Washington Post, the New York Times, among other outlets. She reviews movies and shows every Friday morning on WTOP and is the author of As If: The Oral History of Clueless.
Julian Lytle
Julian Lytle is a comic book creator, podcast host, and film critic from Washington, D.C. He’s known for his indie comic Ants and his pop culture podcast Ignorant Bliss. His sharp commentary and unique voice make him a standout in comics and criticism.
Samuel Leggett Jr.
Samuel Leggett Jr. is a film critic, content creator, and editor for JVS Media & Productions since 2013. He balances his passion for cinema and artistic creation with his roles as an IT Specialist, father of two, and part-time Producer/Writer/Director. Samuel’s love for film began with the 1989 classic Batman, fueling his excitement for storytelling, music, and superhero fandom.
Sherin Nicole (moderator)
Sherin Nicole is an award-winning creative, pop culture pundit, and author whose work spans fantastical stories. The CIA once offered her a college scholarship, but she’s far too secretive for espionage. A Howard University graduate and recipient of multiple Arts and Humanities Fellowships, Sherin is also a brand and marketing maven with a love for all things geeky.
William Goodman
William Goodman is a DC-based writer, whose work can be found most often at GQ, TheWrap, and Men’s Health. He’s yet to find a jacket or cardigan he didn’t like. If you can’t find him, he’s likely on a run or at the movies.

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