6:00 PM

Welcome to the Crypticon Seattle family! Kick off the convention the right way by connecting with our veteran panelists and contributors. Meet fellow attendees, make new connections, and get answers to any questions you have.

7:00 PM

For over a century, The Phantom of the Opera has captivated our imaginations. This haunting tale of a tormented yet romantic antihero has been reimagined countless times—through novels, films, musicals, and even pop culture. Join us as we celebrate the Music of the Night!

7:00 PM

This discussion explores the "sleeping ambush force of destruction" trope in horror, its psychological impact, and the unique role of the bear trap as a weapon.

7:00 PM

With recent releases like Mad God and Stopmotion, what does the modern future hold for this beloved art form?

7:00 PM

Finding Laughs in the Darkness: This panel explores the unique fusion of horror and comedy, examining how laughter and fear can enhance each other. Panelists will discuss the art of balancing humor with horror, and how comedy can intensify suspense, tension, and even gore.

8:00 PM

Wrapping up the American Horror Story/Dante's Inferno Theory! : 1-9 seasons vs Circles of Hell, Season 10 as the departure to Purgatory, and season 1 of AHStories as the 7 levels of Purgatory! Lots of fun, spoilers, Easter Eggs, and possible future references!

8:00 PM

From Christmas slashers to Thanksgiving terrors, horror has found a way to make every holiday a nightmare. This panel dives into the best (and weirdest) holiday-themed horror films, including the most obscure—because yes, even Arbor Day deserves a scare!

8:00 PM

2024 has been a standout year for the genre—so let’s debate! We’ll celebrate the hits, roast the misses, and shine a light on the hidden gems that deserve more attention.

8:00 PM

Even when the world feels like it’s unraveling, cosmic horror offers a way to process the unknowable. This panel explores the creeping, unspeakable dread that feels more relevant than ever—and the films emerging from the darkness.

9:00 PM

Do you crave deeper, darker, and more disturbing films? Our panelists are ready to dive into the most unsettling cinema with you. Recommended for audiences 17 and older.

9:00 PM

Panelists bring their weirdest, wildest horror opinions and debate them in a no-judgment zone. Come hear hot takes, unexpected favorites, and bold critiques in a lively, open discussion!

9:00 PM

A deep dive into the history and must-see selections of Japanese straight-to-video cinema from the 1980s to the 2000s. Explore the wild, experimental, and often overlooked gems of the V-Cinema era.

12:00 PM

Celebrate Godzilla and his rubber-suited friends and foes in a giant monster madness extravaganza! Join us as we revel in the chaos, destruction, and sheer fun of kaiju cinema!

12:00 PM

Join us as we explore the world of horror remakes—why classics are reborn, what makes them succeed or fail, and how they balance nostalgia with modern scares. From faithful tributes to bold reimaginings, we’ll dive into the creative choices behind these films.

12:00 PM

Though she initially rejected her calling as the chosen one, Buffy Summers saved the world, a lot. Drawing upon mythology, we'll look at Buffy's growth through each season of the show, exploring how the people she met and the trials she faced, shaped her as a character.

1:00 PM

A discussion on the subversive ways women have redefined the horror genre, both as creators and subjects. We’ll explore how horror has been used to examine bodies, gender, sexuality, and control—shifting perspectives and reshaping the way we experience fear.

1:00 PM

We had a blast pairing films last year, so let’s do it again—more thrilling double features, more wild connections, and even more fun!

1:00 PM

Witches in horror wear many faces from the Satan-worshipping hags of Haxan (1922) to the stylish weirdos of The Craft (1996). We'll look at how the rise of feminism, Satanic Panic, and modern paganism has shaped and influenced these depictions and how the witch has evolved from a symbol of patriarchal fear to one of female empowerment.

2:00 PM

Horror has long served as a reaction to the world around us, often acting as a form of political protest. This panel explores how the genre has responded to past sociopolitical events and examines how it may continue to reflect and challenge our current reality.

2:00 PM

A deep dive into the ahead-of-their-time, deranged debauchery of horror films released before June 1934. Explore the boundary-pushing, pre-Code era of horror that shocked audiences and shaped the genre before censorship took hold.

2:00 PM

A look back at the films that defined Gen X and how this generation helped shape what is arguably the greatest era of horror cinema. From slashers to psychological thrillers, we’ll explore the lasting impact of these iconic movies and their influence on the genre today.

3:00 PM

How can we get more women involved in horror filmmaking? This panel explores the challenges, opportunities, and ways to support and amplify women's voices in the genre, from directing and writing to producing and beyond.

3:00 PM

Step into the strange and surreal world of David Lynch, from Eraserhead to Mulholland Drive and beyond. We’ll explore his haunting imagery, recurring themes, and the lingering question—are David Lynch films horror?

3:00 PM

A deep dive into a chilling subgenre that blends frontier grit with the macabre. Join us as we explore its haunting landscapes, supernatural terrors, and why it deserves more attention.

4:00 PM

n the 1930s, Universal and RKO Pictures introduced the ancestors of American cinematic horror. Jungian horror evangelist Willy Greer distills these classic monsters to their archetypal essence and traces their influence through every American movie monster of the 20th century.

4:00 PM

Panelists share their favorite hidden gems, from obscure cult classics to midnight movie treasures. Join us for a deep dive into the weird, the wild, and the wonderfully overlooked films of horror.

4:00 PM

A discussion on the lasting impact of found footage horror, its recurring presence in the genre, and how it continues to evolve. We'll explore what works, what could change, and how new platforms like Found TV and YouTube are pushing the subgenre in fresh directions.

5:00 PM

Dive into the rich, underdiscussed traditions of Southeast Asian cinema, where folklore, horror, and experimental storytelling collide. Explore the region’s unique cinematic voice, its wildest films, and the cultural influences that shape them.

5:00 PM

From the eerie elegance of Twin Peaks to the nightmarish textures of Eraserhead, David Lynch’s films use costume design to enhance mood, character, and surreal storytelling. This presentation explores how clothing shapes his dreamlike worlds and deeper themes.

5:00 PM

Discover the chilling creativity of Pacific Northwest filmmakers as they showcase their work and discuss their process. Join us for screenings, behind-the-scenes insights, and a Q&A with the minds behind the madness!

5:00 PM

Chucky, Freddy, Jason, and Leatherface have ruled horror for decades, but the new millennium brought fresh nightmares—Jigsaw, Sam, Art the Clown, M3GAN, Valak, and revived legends like Michael Myers and Ghostface. Do these newcomers have the staying power to become true horror icons? And will they haunt audiences for generations to come? Let’s discuss!

6:00 PM

How do modern filmmakers design costumes for period horror, and how does it compare to films actually made in those eras? This panel explores the stylized nostalgia, historical accuracy (or lack thereof), and how costume choices shape our perception of the past in horror cinema.

6:00 PM

With physical media on the rise, now is the perfect time to start collecting! Panelists share the best boutique label releases from the past year and tips on finding rare and special editions.

6:00 PM

From local urban legends to global mythology, folklore has long been a powerful force in horror. This panel explores how these tales tap into both the familiar and the mysterious, creating stories that feel timeless, haunting, and deeply resonant.

7:00 PM

Join Fright or Wrong for a Family Feud-style battle between Crypticon panelists and… you! A team of randomly selected audience members will face off against the panelists, predicting the most popular answers to horror-themed questions. Not playing? You still get to vote on debates like “Best Friday the 13th film?” or “Most iconic final girl?” Bring your phone and help decide who truly knows the Crypticon Seattle audiance the best. Make sure to bring your phone for this interactive panel.

7:00 PM

The Strange Aeons Radio crew will be recording an episode live at Crypticon Seattle. Check them out at strangeaeonsradio.com

7:00 PM

From The Wasp Woman (1959) to The Substance (2024), horror has long explored society’s obsession with youth and beauty. This panel examines the cultural roots of this fixation and highlights standout films that turn vanity into terror.

7:00 PM

Philosophers have long linked film-watching to a dream-state—but do the best horror films actively push us into one? This panel explores how stylistic choices create a dreamlike (or nightmarish) experience, highlighting films that blur the line between reality and illusion.

8:00 PM

Brutal, shocking, and shrouded in mystery—axe murders have left their mark on true crime history. This panel delves into some of the most infamous cases, exploring the crimes, the investigations, and the lingering questions that still haunt us today.

8:00 PM

Let's talk about some of the films that are not regarded as great but are fun and worthy of watching!!

8:00 PM

Queer Horror isn't a subgenre; it IS thee genre. Let's talk about the most exciting things queer artists are doing to revolutionize the field, like we've been doing since we created it.

8:00 PM

When horror confronts life’s biggest questions, existential dread and moral dilemmas take center stage. This panel explores how the genre exposes humanity’s deepest fears, ethical struggles, and the fragile nature of our sense of purpose.

9:00 PM

Real-life horror takes the stage as panelists present shocking true crime cases through in-depth slideshows. From infamous killers to chilling unsolved mysteries, join us for a deep dive into the dark world of true tales of murder. *This panel is intended for mature audiances*

9:00 PM

From its carnival origins to modern arenas, pro wrestling has embraced the supernatural. This panel explores horror-themed gimmicks, from legends like The Undertaker and Bray Wyatt to deep-cut dark personas. We’ll also dive into wrestlers who’ve stepped into horror films, including Mexico’s luchadores, Chris Jericho, and Kane.

9:00 PM

Horror that takes Marry/F**/Kill* to terrifying new heights. From eerie meditations on sexuality’s hidden menace to nightmare kink-fests and flesh-feasting horrors, this panel dives into the folds, crevices, and dark desires lurking in the genre—no taboo left unturned.

12:00 PM

Last year, we covered Giallo 101—but Italy isn’t the only player in the game. This panel explores how Spain, Japan, Germany, the U.S., and beyond have put their own unique spin on this stylish and bloody subgenre.

12:00 PM

From frail prey to terrifying predators, the elderly play a wide range of roles in horror. This panel explores themes of vulnerability (Ghost Story, Bubba Ho-Tep), the fear of aging (Relic, Dorian Gray), and the unsettling presence of the elderly as antagonists (The Visit, The Taking of Deborah Logan). We’ll also discuss films that subvert these tropes, showcasing older characters as heroes and fighters (Insidious, Late Phases, etc.

12:00 PM

From Werewolf of London (1935) to The Wolf Man (2025), Universal’s werewolf films have shaped the legend of the cinematic lycanthrope. This panel looks back at nearly a century of transformation, tragedy, and terror in one of horror’s most enduring franchises.

1:00 PM

Following our deep dive into Gen X horror, this panel explores the films that shaped Millennials and the generations that followed. From the rise of found footage to the resurgence of elevated horror, we'll discuss how these eras redefined the genre and what their lasting impact will be.

1:00 PM

Celebrating 50 years of Jaws, we dive into how this legendary film created the summer blockbuster, sparked a creature-feature boom, and inspired the phrase, “It will do for ___ what Jaws did for the water.” We'll also explore the film’s lasting impact, from its masterful suspense to its iconic score, cast, and direction.

1:00 PM

Dive deep into the themes, Easter eggs, and striking imagery of The Substance in this multimedia-driven discussion. We’ll explore the film’s layered messages, visual storytelling, and the hidden details that make it a haunting and thought-provoking experience.

2:00 PM

Just days after our last convention, horror lost one of its most influential figures. This panel is a chance to come together, reflect on their impact, and celebrate the legacy they left behind in shaping the genre we love.

2:00 PM

How did an indie horror series packed with some of the gnarliest gore outside of underground cinema become a massive success? This panel dives into its shocking popularity, its impact on the genre, and what it means for the future of horror filmmaking.

2:00 PM

We all know Bundy, Gacy, and Ridgway—but what about Gilles de Rais, Darya Saltykova, or the Bloody Benders? This panel explores some of history’s earliest serial killers, their gruesome crimes, and how their legacies still haunt us today.

3:00 PM

From Bigfoot to Mothman, the Loch Ness Monster to Batsquatch—who doesn’t love a good cryptid? This panel explores what makes a compelling cryptid movie, highlights some of the best in the genre, and discusses which legendary creatures are long overdue for their big-screen debut.

3:00 PM

Since Carol J. Clover coined the term in 1987, the final girl has been a defining figure in horror. This panel explores the evolution of horror’s ultimate survivor—from the trailblazers of the 1970s to modern heroines—examining how she has changed with each passing decade.