Drive down the cinematic enigma of Zyzzyx Road with Parliament After Dark! This inaugural episode of our Reel Lit/Shelf Criticism special takes a closer look at the lowest-grossing domestic film of all time, a bizarre thriller starring Katherine Heigl, Tom Sizemore, and Leo Grillo. Was it a misunderstood masterpiece, a marketing disaster, or just a mess best left buried in the Nevada desert?

Join Stephen, McKenzie, and Raegan as they explore the history behind the film’s infamous $30 box office, dissect its plot, performances, and production, and debate its merits—or lack thereof—with their signature blend of wit and insight. From cringe-worthy scenes to unexpected moments of depth, this midnight movie gets the full parliamentary treatment.

Will Zyzzyx Road get a unanimous thumbs-up or an unceremonious gavel down? Find out on Parliament After Dark!

In this Halloween special of Reel Lit, Stephen and McKenzie dive into Susan Hill's chilling novel The Woman in Black and its eerie 2012 film adaptation. They explore the haunting isolation of Eel Marsh House, examine the atmospheric use of silence, and discuss how mirrors and doubling underscore the lingering impact of grief and trauma. With their unique blend of wit and analysis, they uncover the unsettling elements that make The Woman in Black an enduring classic of ghostly horror.

In this episode of Reel Lit, we're literally shooting for the stars! Join us as we dive into Neil Gaiman's 1999 novel Stardust and its whimsical 2007 film adaptation. We explore the contrasting tones of the book's darker, more mature themes with the film's lighter, comedic adventure. From costume symbolism and the significance of the characters' names to a rogues' gallery of familiar faces (Henry Cavill, anyone?), we leave no stone—or star—unturned.

We also geek out over the surprising cast cameos and dissect the intricacies of Captain Shakespeare’s flamboyant wardrobe. Plus, we dig into the moral ambiguity of Stardust's so-called 'heroes' in our 'Most Hated Character' segment.

And, of course, we can’t resist a little banter about Halloween preparations and a tease for our next spooky episode. So, grab your Bubbling ... err ... Babylon candle and get ready for a journey to the land of Faerie!