Episode 15: Dead Claw, Krampus

Content Warning: This podcast often uses explicit language and covers sensitive or distressing topics. It is NSFW. Listener discretion is advised.

Since the recording of this episode, we’ve partnered with Phantom Moon Collection! Visit her site and use the code DIRTLINGS for 15% off your order :) and find her online @phantom.mooncollection.

Dirtlings, you asked for this one, literally. Ellsworth devised a patron-poll with topics sure to ease us all into the winter months and Krampus won! Cozy up inside the Dirtstar with Ellie and Riley as we explore the dark and fascinating world of Krampus, the dark entity who bestows punishments to ill behaved children and his major comeback into mainstream media.

Ellie delves into the origins of this Christmas beast, his wild goat-like appearance, the sack he carries for naughty children (or a basket sometimes; both will transport you to Hell sufficiently) and the role of Krampus in the Advent season, terrorizing misbehaved kiddos while Saint Nicholas rewards the good ones with presents!

Riley reviews a top ten list of Krampus films and takes a deep dive into “Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale” (2010) from Jalmari Helander (listen, it’s Krampus adjacence, okay?) and Michael Dougherty’s hilarious dark comedy “Krampus” (2015). Major spoilers ahead everyone, you've been warned!

Check out episode sources, pictures, or any other goodies we may have found on our website.

This episode is sponsored by our magnificent Patrons: Tasha, BJ, Brian, Brent, and Katrina. You Dirtlings warm our dark little hearts!

Special thanks to our show sponsor, The Phantom Moon Collection. Phantom Moon Collection is a small business jewelry brand started by our incredible friend, Natasha.  Each piece is handmade with love, inspired by her favorite books, horror stories, and her three kitties, Bellatrix, Pumpkin, and Eevee. Use code DIRTLINGS for 15% off your order!

Reminder: We're hobbyists, not experts. Please approach the content of this episode with that in mind, we encourage you to do your own research. Remember, facts and statistics can be misinterpreted or misused. If you're an expert on a topic we cover, we welcome additional information or corrections via our contact form on our website. Happy listening!