Photos: Samuel Leggett – JVS Media & Productions
The LightReel Film Fest took place at DC’s Union Market over the weekend, celebrating the power of storytelling and diverse voices within independent cinema. Some of our Rioters took part in the festival—including holding the BIG MONSTER FEELINGS panel, which you can listen to now, right here on GGR!
Let’s Get Critical About the Monsters We Love
2025 is the year of monsters (and no, we’re not just talking about the government). We’re talking about the cinematic phenomenon that is Sinners, the hype for the upcoming Frankenstein, and the rise in popularity of dragon romantasy-like novels like Fourth Wing. In the latest installment of GGR’s Let’s Get Critical: The Scenes That Make the Movies series, Sherin moderates the BIG MONSTER FEELINGS panel, Julian and William join her as panelists, and the talk is rounded out by critics Jen Chaney and Samuel Leggett Jr. (find more info about the panel and the panelists here).
Iconic Scenes, No Scares
The panelists present their picks of iconic monster movie scenes and break down what makes them so memorable. From Predator to E.T., Godzilla to The Thing, they discuss the monsters themselves, the filmmaking techniques that make them so fearsome, and the legacy these cinema giants left behind. Along the way, hear the critics’ comparisons to other monster movies and how each character takes us to different emotional places.
Surviving (& Celebrating) The Horrors
The hosts close out the panel by sharing some of their favorite horror movies—and arguing over their remakes over the years—weaving in how these films influenced them and shaped their childhoods. There are so many good ones to choose from and so many excellent points brought up by the panelists, it’s clear the BIG MONSTER FEELINGS panel is a big hit with the live audience, and we know it’s gonna be a big hit with y’all. Let us know your monster picks and get your claws into this conversation!
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