Watch Behind the Monsters

Behind the Monsters is a documentary series from Shudder that explores the behind-the-scenes process of creating some of the most iconic horror movie monsters in history. The show features horror experts Tracie Thoms, Rebekah McKendry, and Ryan Turek, who delve deep into the histories of these terrifying creatures and reveal the creative minds responsible for bringing them to life.

Over the course of six episodes, Behind the Monsters explores the stories behind some of horror's most memorable monsters, including Freddy Krueger from A Nightmare on Elm Street, Michael Myers from Halloween, Leatherface from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and many more. Each episode begins with a brief history of the film franchise and its impact on the horror genre before diving into the making of the monster.

The show's hosts take audiences behind the scenes to meet the artists, actors, and directors who played a role in creating these iconic characters. Their interviews provide deeper insights into the creative process and the challenges faced when making these horror movies. This includes conversations with makeup artists who fashioned the monsters' iconic looks, actors who brought them to life on screen, and filmmakers who imagined their origins.

Throughout the series, the hosts share their own perspectives on these monsters and the impact they have had on the horror genre. They talk about the cultural shifts that may have contributed to their popularity, as well as the way in which these characters have evolved over time.

What sets Behind the Monsters apart from other documentaries on horror movies is its attention to detail. The show features interviews with everyone from special effects artists and sound engineers to stunt coordinators and actors. The interviews are paired with never-before-seen archival footage and photos, which create a more immersive experience for the viewer.

Each episode is themed around a specific monster or franchise, which allows the hosts to explore specific aspects of each character's creation. For example, the episode on Freddy Krueger focuses on his design, involving the makeup process and the evolution of his claws. Meanwhile, the Leatherface episode delves into the character's backstory and the actor's transformation into the psychopathic killer.

Despite the darker subject matter, the tone of Behind the Monsters is light-hearted and entertaining. The hosts inject humor into each episode, which makes it enjoyable for both horror fans and those new to the genre. Their banter with each other is both engaging and informative, as they provide a fresh perspective on some of horror's most iconic moments.

Overall, Behind the Monsters is a must-watch for horror fans. The series provides a unique and engaging look at some of the genre's most terrifying and memorable characters. The combination of archival footage, interviews, and expert analysis creates a comprehensive and engrossing experience that horror fans will appreciate. It's the perfect way to prepare for Halloween, or to simply indulge in a guilty pleasure.

Behind the Monsters is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between October 26, 2021 and on Shudder