Juice: A Hood Horror Film

By: Myriam Akbar

Juice is a 1992 crime thriller film, directed by Ernest R. Dickerson. It stars Tupac Shakur, Omar Epps, Jermaine Hopkins, and Khalil Kain.  The plot follows four high schoolers living in Harlem and their day-to-day activities, as well as their struggles to survive in their neighborhood. In many ways this film acts as a coming of age or cautionary tale, demonstrating the way one’s environment can influence identity and behavior. My fiancé suggested that I watch it because he views it as a horror film and wanted my opinion. Given that I am constantly emphasizing how expansive and misunderstood the genre is, I instantly accepted the opportunity. I will argue that while crime thriller is a fitting label, viewing Juice through the lens of horror is nuanced and absolutely suitable. It’s no more a hood horror tale than a segment of my favorite horror film, Tales From the Hood. 

I’ll start with some basics. This film focuses on the killings committed by a man out for blood, who often pops up like the Boogeyman. There’s a dark tone and use of ominous sound in several scenes. While a good chunk of the film isn’t reliant on these elements, many slashers start off with a good ol’ time. Juice begins with world and character building, setting the story up. Think summer camp counselors partying or friends having a lakeside reunion. Then after one murder, the spree begins. I think many would argue this isn’t a horror film simply because the killer doesn’t wear a mask and uses a gun as his weapon of choice. John Kramer, Freddy Krueger, Candyman, and the killer from Hush are examples of maskless horror villains. The Town That Dreaded Sundown, Ms. 45, Terrifier, and some of the Scream franchise involve gun usage. It can be done. 

Now, the conceptual aspects of the film. On the surface, Juice examines betrayal in friendship and the fatal consequences of earning street credibility through violence. However on a deeper level, it explores the dangerous impact of toxic masculinity and desire for power. This is shown through Bishop’s descent into madness, often explored in psychological horror films. We see him transform from someone who enjoyed laughing and watching television with his friends, to someone who wanted to kill and frame them. Environmental stress, paranoia, and harmful ideologies of what it means to be a man all contribute to his dark turn. 

Often people argue that in order for a film to be horror, it needs to be “scary” and I know this will be a top subject of analysis with Juice. I argue that the idea that a horror film needs to be scary to the general public is a narrow and outdated assertion. Defining what’s scary is not only subjective, but heavily influenced by an individual’s personal life experiences. For example, one’s own triggers or phobias. I personally found Bishop and his actions to be frightening, specifically due to the quick and unexpected nature of the escalated events. He’s brutal and relentless when he commits murder, turning to manipulation and intimidation afterwards–a menacing switch in personality from the beginning of the film. As someone who has seen this happen to people in real life, I’d say the film is scary. 

Lastly, I want to point out the significance of considering the feeling of fear experienced by the characters in the story–not just the audience. When Bishop kills Raheem, Steel and Q are filled with terror. After threatening to do the same to them if they don’t follow his orders, that feeling of dread follows them everywhere they go. His behavior creates an anxiety inducing situation for the characters and viewer–if you’re like me and imagined yourself in their shoes. 

This question has inspired me to analyze other films that can be viewed through the lens of horror, which will be a challenge because I can't think of any off the top of my head. Regardless of its label, I will say that Juice was worth every minute of my time. It's star-studded, culturally relevant, makes an impact through its themes, has memorable acting performances, and showcases top-notch fashion.

Prime’s Addictive Series 56 Days Offers Closure to Twisted Fans

By: Myriam Akbar 

In 2013, a teen mystery thriller television series premiered on ABC Family. It was created by Adam Milch and had a solid cast, including: Avan Jogia, Denise Richards, Sam Robards, and Maddie Hasson. The plot follows a teen returning to society after being released from juvenile detention for confessing to killing his aunt. The series poses the question: did he really kill her and if he did, why? Can his childhood friends trust him or is he dangerous to be around? After one season and a gripping finale, the series was cancelled due to poor viewership. Despite the dropping in ratings, there were a ton of loyal fans who were crushed by the news that there wouldn’t be a second season. I was one of them and revisit the show from time to time. The finale had a major cliffhanger that essentially left us fans without closure and we bond over our frustration on social media when the topic of cancelled shows comes up. 

Fast forward 12 years, I'm scrolling on TikTok when I see a video from Jogia’s account and he’s promoting a new series that he’s starring in. I’ve been a fan of his since Victorious, so I was instantly intrigued. However I became obsessively impatient to watch, after hearing him say that in his mind 56 Days is what happens from where Twisted left off. I needed to know what he meant by that. This Amazon Prime series follows a quick-paced romance that becomes intertwined in a murder mystery, offering much more under the surface. 

I watched 56 Days in one night, only getting up to grab snacks and use the restroom. The similarities were easily identifiable and created a mind bending experience, because Jogia truly brought the same energy from Twisted. It’s equally addictive, scandalous, and full of curveballs. It keeps you hooked from the beginning and acts like a rollercoaster ride you don’t want to end. Although the most important questions were answered in Twisted, the story is clearly incomplete due to the cliffhanger. All mysteries are solved in 56 Days, with a clever and unique story that effectively accomplishes its intentions. So, if you still find yourself thinking about that ABC Family series that never got the run it deserved–Amazon Prime has gifted you with a second chance.  

Sources: TheHollywoodReporter.com

Creator Highlight: Crystal Justine

By: Myriam Akbar

Meet Crystal Justine—a writer and content creator based in Nashville; however, she’s originally from Las Vegas. She’s the founder of TheCinemaNook.com and co-runs the website, writing both feature articles and film reviews. She’s been creating cinema-based content on social media for about 3.5 years now. Justine is passionate, driven, and focused—as shown through her work. 

Justine discovered her love of film at a young age. “I have fond memories of going to the video store with my parents and getting to pick out movies from the family section,” she says. She recalls watching An American Tail, The Goonies, and Hook. In elementary school, she’d watch Nick at Nite while her parents thought she was sleeping. In terms of television, she enjoyed watching Taxi and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. “I honestly don't think there's a genre of film or television that I dislike. I enjoy them all at different levels. I'm a very mood driven watcher,” Justine shares. The genres she’s drawn to the most are horror, thriller, and fantasy. A few of her favorite films are The Truman Show, Spirited Away, Parasite, and The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring. She highlights Game of Thrones, Supernatural, and Law & Order: SVU as some of her favorite shows. “What I love most about storytelling in film isn’t genre, it’s when commentary is being made. I love a story that has something deeper to say whether that's socially, psychologically, or philosophically,” she says. 

Justine says started making content on a whim, but became more passionate after considering the ability to build community and network. “I think a lot of people get into content creation with the ambition of becoming full-time influencers. I have always seen it as a vehicle to reach my dreams, while meeting and connecting with others along the journey,” she says. When asked to describe her experience, she emphasized the importance of prioritizing her own wellbeing to combat the impact social media has on our mental health. Justine explains that for her, posting on the internet is an act of giving herself and her energy. So she posts when it feels right for her, rather than when her content will get her the most views. “I personally create content to build connections. I may not post daily, but what I do share has been enough to open meaningful doors both professionally and personally. I've built solid business relationships and friendships I feel will last,” she shares. Along with networking and community, she has acquired opportunities like covering film festivals as press. In 2025, she covered SXSW, the Dallas International Film Festival, Fantastic Fest, and the Nashville Film Festival. She recently went to Austin, TX to cover SXSW again this year.

When asked what’s to come for her in the near future, Justine revealed that she’s starting a podcast this year called Lights Camera Lattes. It will be a solo project that she describes as a cozy space where she can not only talk about film and television, but the processes behind it. She will also be doing deep dives into the themes and commentaries within the stories. “I think with my background in Philosophy, writing, and film–I can bring something different and refreshing to the table,” she explains. 

Justine’s passion for filmmaking stems from childhood. “I've wanted to be a filmmaker since I saw Good Will Hunting. I don't know what about this film resonated with me at 11 years old, but I remember paying attention to it differently. The visuals, Robin William's monologue, and the heavy feeling of the story,” she says. Screenwriting is her favorite aspect of filmmaking, having written two short films that have been made. She’s currently writing everything from shorts and features, to television pilots. One short film is a horror, while the other is a drama. She’s also part of a group that participates in the Nashville 48 Hour Film Project annually towards the end of Summer. Currently, Justine is producing a feature length documentary, which has been in production since last year.

“My long-term goals are vast. My mind sees everything in scenes and stories,” Justine says, when asked where she sees herself down the line. Her plans  include: turning her film and television ideas into pieces of art for the world to see, continuing writing and producing, and directing a feature. She’s also taking the time to learn more about music, in order to create a score and all that goes on behind the camera. Most importantly, she’s on the hunt to find filmmakers and technicians that are passionate about the craft–to build a team of people to work with from project to project. “Movies take a village and finding my people is important to me,” she says. 

Cracked Porcelain: Dolly Review

By: Myriam Akbar

Dolly is an indie slasher film written, produced, and directed by Rod Blackhurst. It’s based on his 2022 short film, Babygirl. The plot is contained, following a woman’s (Macy) journey of survival against a masked killer (Dolly) attempting to capture her and raise her as their child. It was a highly anticipated film among the horror community, who has been longing for a new slasher icon. Reviews were mixed for the most part, satisfying some and disappointing others. Many viewers found themselves in the middle. I was one of the people that was let down, yet also in the middle. I say let down, because slasher is one of my favorite subgenres and I truly wanted to love the film. However I found it to be a bit uninspired, despite gravitating towards and enjoying several aspects. Upon a second watch, I did go from thinking it's just "okay" to being a fan.

Spoilers Ahead…

Beginning with the Positives: 

My favorite part about Dolly is that the concept and killers’ aesthetic reminds me of my favorite television show, Pretty Little Liars. In both works, there’s a villain who kidnaps their victims and takes them to what looks like a life-size dollhouse. Dolly kidnaps Macy, taking her to dollhouse-like baby room and treats her like a baby. While in the show, the villain takes their victims to a life-size dollhouse inspired by their bedrooms and treats them like her own personal Barbie dolls. The use of dolls as a confusing scare tactic, being hung up or placed around is another similarity. The relentless and possessive nature of the motives in both works, adds a lair of terror because the mission of the villain isn’t to kill them right away—it’s to give them a prolonged experience. The ongoing torment and panic makes for an anxiety inducing watch. In terms of similarity in aesthetic–I’m referring to the use of red attire, blond hair, and a porcelain babydoll mask. Initially, I didn’t notice any connections. It wasn’t until I was about half way through and it was a pleasant surprise. The original Pretty Little Liars series never went full slasher, so it was satisfying to make the comparison and conceptualize a world in which this took place in the show. 

In general, I think Dolly is an impressive slasher villain and the most interesting part of the film. The name itself is catchy and memorable. Their large, towering build gives for a dreadful appearance similar to Rob Zombie’s version of Michael Myers or Jason Voorhees. They’re strong and ruthlessly violent, creating some unforgettable gory kill scenes. If you’re a fan of the original versions of The Strangers and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, I think you’ll enjoy this film due to its brutal and gritty nature. 

Another aspect of the film that worked for me is the themes of motherhood, in relation to Macy’s backstory and Dolly’s twisted behavior. Given that there’s minimal characters, this link is clever in its focus on Macy’s uncertainty of becoming a step-mother.

Why the Film Fell Short for me:

How much depth does a slasher film need? Does it need any at all? Does Dolly bring anything new to the slasher subgenre? I asked myself these questions after finishing the film, as I often do after watching a modern slasher film. I think this is because my favorites found a way to be inventive; for example, the mashing of genres in A Nightmare on Elm Street (slasher, supernatural, fantasy). Or, the unique and culturally relevant storytelling in Candyman. Outside of expectation and preference, Dolly certainly accomplishes what it set out to. It’s a self-aware film that was executed well and I don’t want my stance on that to be confused. However, I personally was hoping for more story and world-building. I said in my TikTok initial-quick-thoughts video that due to its simplicity, it would have made a better short film.  It wasn’t until after I rewatched and began my review writing process that I learned it’s actually based on one. Babygirl is available to watch for free on YouTube and it’s everything I like in a slasher short. 

It’s clear that the filmmaker’s vision for the full-length version came to life on screen. From the setting, to plot, to Dolly’s essence as this monstrous killer.

What’s the Future Look Like for Dolly? 

        I’d like a sequel and given the film’s ending, it’s likely there will be one. There’s scenes that attempt to give viewers some insight into Dolly’s family system, an upbringing that created the monster we see throughout the film. It’s there and I want to learn more, especially because I was yearning for that from this film. Despite my negative criticism, there’s potential for a franchise—I absolutely see that and think the sequel could be even better than the first.

Photo Creds: IMDB.com

Creator Highlight: Evangile

By: Myriam Akbar

Evangile is a musician, producer, and film-based content creator from California. I discovered her on TikTok, instantly becoming a fan due to her authenticity, honesty, and range of talents. Although she’s always shared art, before late 2024 it had only been in a private setting. When asked what motivated her to start making content, she said, “I have so many thoughts, given that I have such a hyperactive mind. Not just surface level thoughts. I love media and wanted to meet like-minded people who share the same traits.” Evangile emphasizes the significance of being able to communicate her ideas to the world, express herself without fear or judgment, and have a sort of escape from daily life.

Evangile’s favorite genres are folk horror, dramas and foreign films. Her favorite show is The Sopranos, while her favorite film is Marie Antoinette. In terms of the horror genre, she highlights The Strangers, May, Alien, and Sinister.

“I care about the world and what happens all around us. I feel that sharing my artistry allows me to connect with others,” Evangile says about the benefits of content creation on social media. However, as for most, there are challenges. She admits that her biggest one is trusting herself and her opinions. “Moods shift and thoughts can change over time. It’s easy to be overcritical of your own work,” she says. 

Despite being proud of the work that she does and all that she gains from it, Evangile says that her passions are more aligned with music. She has been producing for over 10 years and views herself as an experimental electronic musician. She produces darkwave and witch house music, sharing that her sound switched to darkwave in the last couple years. “I love playing with various sound frequencies and have always been drawn to dark music,” she says.

When asked what she finds more rewarding about making content, Evangile said it helped make her a better performer and gives her opportunities to learn about herself. 

Creator Highlight: ABadWitch

By: Myriam Akbar

Meet Yolanda–also known as @ abadwitch on Instagram! She’s from New York and has been a part of the horror community since 2020, also beginning content creation that year. “I was always alone in my nerdy interests and didn’t even think about posting about them, until I found the Instagram horror community in 2019,” she says. 

Yolanda got into film around 10 years old, watching horror films on YouTube when people would previously upload in 10 minute increments. She considers horror her favorite genre, gravitating towards the slasher, technology, and paranormal subgenres. She lists Hausu, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Sinister,  The Fear Street Trilogy, and Stay Alive as some of her most loved horror films. Yolanda is also a fan of comic book, fantasy, and adventure films. For example: Marvel, DC, and the Mortal Kombat films. She highlights X-Men, Spawn, Avengers: Infinity War, and X-Men Days of Future Past. As for TV shows, her favorite is The Walking Dead. “I think it’s the best TV show of all time. Another one I enjoy is Bates Motel,” she says. 

While Yolanda doesn’t consider content creation a career, she does acknowledge it as a significant hobby and passion of hers. “The reason I started posting horror content was to meet others who were into the creepy and macabre--so I can engage with like-minded nerds and build community,” she says. The most rewarding part for her is when her content is well received, because it often opens up conversation and opportunities to bond with women who like similar things as she does. For example, discussing horror films and exchanging Halloween cards. Yolanda says that she’s proud of the genuine friends she has made over time. “I’ve definitely had great things happen to me because I’ve made certain connections in the horror community,” she admits. For example, she was a guest on a podcast a few years ago. Also, she became mutuals with a woman who makes custom VHS tapes. She ended up surprising Yolanda with a custom tape. It was the 1st episode of The Walking Dead. “It’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever received from anyone,” she says. Like many creators, the part she finds most challenging is coming up with ideas for new content. 

Yoland’s main goal is to continue meeting and connecting with women and femmes in horror, especially those that are queer, disabled, and/or a person of color. She also wants to continue using her platform to advocate for people in need, those under persecution, and the oppressed.

Creator Highlight: Meagan of Tea & Popcorn Podcast

By: Myriam Akbar

Meet Meagan– a social media content creator and host of the film commentary podcast, Tea & Popcorn Podcast. She’s been active in the field since 2017, mostly on Instagram (@meaganzworld). However, she launched her podcast and YouTube channel in 2024. Describing her podcast as a cozy movie and culture space, she says, “It’s still in the growth process. I want to create a safe place for women to discuss film and the discourse surrounding it.” Although Meagan recalls always having a love for film, she feels she truly became a cinephile when she was 15 and attended an acting summer camp (that turned into film camp). Her favorite genres are horror, musicals, and dramas. Her favorite movie is Dreamgirls, while she says the early seasons of SpongeBob Squarepants is her comfort show. 

Meagan studied digital communications in college, focusing on film production. However, she learned a lot about content creation and social media marketing during the last term of her senior year. “I watched a lot of film YouTube channels in high school, but I noticed that there weren’t many Black women creators in the film commentary space. I also didn’t see many making the style of content that I liked, so I decided to become that person,” she shares. Although she runs her podcast by herself, she would like to shoutout her friend Tony for designing her logo and cover art, as well as contributing to her theme music. Meagan also notes that her Instagram broadcast channel helped her with answering polls about episode titles, topics, and thumbnails for YouTube videos. 

The most challenging thing about the field for Meagan is the time consuming nature of it, as well as forming strategy. The part she finds the most rewarding is having creative freedom and the community she has built through her platform. “I’ve met so many awesome people and that’s what makes it worthwhile. I have amazing followers, a few of whom have been following me since the early days. The vibes are always good, and I’m excited to expand my platform,” she says. Another aspect of content creation on social media that Meagan finds beneficial is that it cuts out the middle man. She explains how she didn’t have to pitch her podcast or content to gain a following, she just had to post it. 

Meagan’s short term goal is to continue building a strong community and safe space for women cinephiles to talk about film. Her long term goal is to accomplish incorporating all of the ideas she has into her podcast. Additionally, she would like to direct a documentary or a film that’s based on true events. “I love history and learning about people,” she says.