Shows
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastCat PeopleReturning guest co-host David Ullman teams up with Jim to discuss one of the most critically-acclaimed films The Borgo Pass has ever covered- 1942's The Cat People. 2025-07-231h 40
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Last Man on EarthVincent Price stars in this first film adaptation of the Richard Matheson novel I AM LEGEND. Returning guest host Tony Salvaggio (Castle of Horror podcast / Deserts of Mars) joins Jim Towns to discuss this watershed mid-60s film and how its impact continues to evolve. 2025-07-091h 48
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastWho Done it?Regular co-host Chris Sahlin returns to help Jim solve the mystery of this radio-play thriller from 1942: Who Done It? stars Bud Abbott & Lou Costello, along with Borgo Pass favorites Patrick Knowles (The Wolf Man/Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man) and Louise Allbritton (Son of Dracula). Expertly directed by Erle C. Kenton (House of Frankenstein/House of Dracula), shot by Charles Van Enger (Phantom of the Opera) with music by Frank Skinner, this noir comedy rips along, and features some great laughs as well. 2025-06-281h 21
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastWest of Zanzibar/KongoJim & Livio tackle one story across two movies - we cover the Tod Browning & Lon Chaney silent classic West of Zanzibar. We also touch on the 1932 remake, Kongo staring Walter Huston. Our main focus is on West of Zanzibar - a very modern and stylistic Tod Browning/Lon Chaney collaboration that also features Lionel Barrymore. While this isn't a supernatural style horror film, it's a dark thriller with many twists and turns. Enjoy the ride as the Borgo Pass travels West of Zanzibar! 2025-06-121h 52
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe BlobCastle of Horror's Jason Henderson joins Jim Towns to discuss the original 1958 THE BLOB, starring a 27-year-old, up-and-coming Steve McQueen. 2025-05-191h 51
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Frozen GhostThis... is the Inner Sanctum! Join Jim & Livio as they again travel into the mind of a man going mad with the thought of having murdered someone. This 1944 Inner Sanctum movie stars Lon Chaney, Jr, Martin Kosleck, Douglass Dumbrille, and Milburn Stone. Jim & Livio break down the story, performances, and production history in this episode. Yes, even you without knowing... can commit murder! 2025-05-011h 58
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastVincent Price & The Art of Living: Interview with Thomas HamiltonOn today's episode, Jim & Livio sit down with Thomas Hamilton. Tom made the documentary "Boris Karloff: Man Behind The Monster", and is now in production on "Vincent Price: The Art of Living". Tom shares with us stories of how this came to be, we discuss Price throughout his career, as well as touching on several other people that intersected with his life. Tom has a Kickstarter campaign out now for this project - check out the details, and enjoy the episode! 2025-04-241h 38
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastAttack of the 50 Foot WomanWriter, animator and top-tier Monster Kid Frank Dietz joins Jim Towns in the Borgo Pass podcast cave to discuss 1958's Attack of the 50 Foot Woman! 2025-04-171h 37
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastBluebeard (1944)Join Jim & Livio as they once again travel to Paris and are witness to the crimes of the person known as 'Bluebeard'. Made in 1944 and directed by Edgar G. Ulmer (The Black Cat, 1934) and starring John Carradine. Carradine delivers one of his finest performances as the tortured, yet evil Gaston Morrell. The film also stars Jean Parker, Nils Asther, Ludwig Stossel, and Sonia Sorrell. What on the surface seems like a typical 1940's PRC quickie horror movie, it quickly turns to a fantastically dark, moody, and deep horror film. This is truly a hidden gem of the 40's horror...2025-04-032h 09
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Devil CommandsJoin Jim Towns and returning guest co-host David Ullman as they delve into the dark secrets of this 1941 neon-gothic sci-fi thriller from Columbia. Boris Karloff gives a really outstanding and sympathetic performance as a kindhearted scientist whose grief over his wife's death leads him to push the boundaries between the world of the living, and the world of the dead. 2025-03-121h 35
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastTarantulaWe deep dive into the town of Desert Rock, Arizona and discover the results of Professor Deemer's experiments that have resulted in giant rabbits, guinea pigs, and... a tarantula! This episode breaks down this well produced 1955 thriller, it's stars, as well as Livio's fear of spiders and Jim's fear of John Agar! 2025-02-281h 54
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Vampire BatJim & Livio take you to the village of Kleinschloss, where the villagers fear a vampire who is killing it's citizens - or is it really a vampire? We cover this 1933 Majestic Pictures film that stars Lionel Atwill, Fay Wray, Melvyn Douglas, and Dwight Frye. Though made from a 'poverty row' studio, this film uses several Universal players, the sets from Frankenstein and The Old Dark House, and has some great performances! Grab some apples, epsom salt, and your favorite furry bat and join us as we discuss this great movie! 2025-01-301h 46
Borgo Pass Horror Podcast4th Anniversary Show!Celebrate the event of the year with your favorite horror hosts! On January 16, 2021 the Borgo Pass Horror Podcast began.. 4 years later, we're still going strong thanks to YOU, our audience! Jim and Livio have a conversation about the podcast, and preview the exciting new content and projects to come! Plus, hear from some of our guest hosts over the last 4 years! 2025-01-1643 min
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastBill Fleck, Author of Chaney's AuditionWelcome Borgo Pass travelers to a special episode! Jim & Livio sit down with Bill Fleck, author of the Rondo nominated "Chaney's Baby" to discuss his latest book "Chaney's Audition" and the ever polarizing life and career of Lon Chaney, Jr. We discuss everything from his lesser seen roles to The Wolf Man and Of Mice and Men. Even a man who is pure in heart... 2025-01-091h 51
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastAbbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein, pt. 2"In a half hour the moon will rise and I'll turn into a wolf""You and 20 million other guys"It's the conclusion of Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein! Here Jim & Livio take you on your first journey across the Borgo Pass in 2025... we will wrap up the film, and continue our discussion of it's enduring legacy! Whether you're celebrating the New Year, or recovering from last night - kick back and enjoy the conclusion of Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein! 2024-12-311h 28
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastAbbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein, pt. 1"McDougal!!!"Merry Christmas to all of the travelers of the Borgo Pass Horror Podcast. Santa's gift for us all is arguably the most popular classic horror film - Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein. This is truly a cornerstone of the classic horror fanbase, and deservedly so. Made in 1948, we see Bela Lugosi's Dracula, Lon Chaney, Jr.'s The Wolf Man, and Glenn Strange's Frankenstein Monster for one last time. Join Jim & Livio this Christmas for the first half of this film, it's legacy, the actors, the production, and so much more! 2024-12-251h 29
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastMad LoveBorgo Pass Horror Podcast co-founder Scott Kelley returns to help Jim delve into the twisted, pre-Code world of MAD LOVE, starring Peter Lorre, Colin Clive and Frances Drake! 2024-12-121h 30
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastBowery at MidnightReturning co-host Kat Hearons joins Jim to discuss the 1942 Monogram thriller Bowery at Midnight, staring Bela Lugosi. 2024-11-211h 29
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThem!Jim Towns and returning guest co-host Tony Salvaggio take a trek into the California desert, where atomic testing has given birth to an army of humongous and vicious ants, in 1954's THEM! 2024-11-141h 55
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Old Dark HouseFive strangers gather in a spooky house filled with secrets during a terrible storm, and meanwhile two podcasters gather in different time zones to discuss it- join Borgo Pass host Jim Towns and Ian Bates of The Monster Archives podcast as they discuss James Whale's Frankenstein follow-up: 1932's THE OLD DARK HOUSE, starring Boris Karloff, Ernest Thesiger, Melvyn Douglas, Gloria Stuart, Lilian Bond, Raymond Massey and Charles Laughton. 2024-10-311h 25
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Body Snatcher with Greg MankIt's Bela Lugosi's birthday! And to celebrate, Livio invites author and film historian Greg Mank back to the show to talk about RKO Pictures 1945 film The Body Snatcher. Livio and Greg will take up the next 2.5 hours of your day to talk about this iconic Val Lewton film, it's stars, the production, comparisons between Val Lewton's horror films and Universals - and much, much more! Don't fear being burked or worry about no one keeping watch over your loved ones grave - Livio & Greg are keeping everyone entertained! 2024-10-212h 22
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Mad DoctorFor your consideration: this radically underrated 1940 Paramount film featuring Basil Rathbone (Son of Frankenstein, Robin Hood, Sherlock Holmes), Ellen Drew (The Monster and the Girl) and Ralph Morgan (Night Monster) in a twisted tale of a psychiatric merry widower and the old doctor out to stop him. ALSO for your consideration, a freewheeling, late night conversation about the film by two published authors: regular host Jim Towns and returning guest host Jason Henderson (Castle of Horror podcaast/Castle Bridge Media), covering the twists and turns of the plot, and also where it diverges from your typical-era potboiler. 2024-10-031h 46
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe GhoulHorror artist and writer Audrey Rose aka @madmonsterlady joins Jim Towns to discuss 1933's The Ghoul! 2024-08-141h 28
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Thing From Another WorldWatch the skies!! And while you do, pop in some headphones and listen to Jim & Livio discuss Howard Hawk's 1951 classic "The Thing From Another World". A team of scientists and military officers discover a crashed frozen UFO in Alaska - and it's survivor. We tackle the impact of this film, the production, the nuances in the filmmaking, James Arness, and much more! 2024-07-311h 42
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Ghost ShipCome aboard the SS Altair: it's all smooth sailing, except for the fact that its Captain is a homicidal maniac!Jim Towns and returning guest host David Ullman get to the bottom of this Val Lewton-produced RKO thriller from 1943, starring Richard Dix, Russell Wade, Edith Barrett and the great Skelton Knaggs! 2024-07-101h 41
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Human Monster AKA Dark Eyes Of LondonJim & Livio know NOTHING about insurance, and neither do the customers of Dr. Orloff. The Human Monster is a 1939 British horror film starring Bela Lugosi (originally titled the Dark Eyes Of London). One of Lugosi's more popular 'poverty row' films, he plays a dual role of Dr. Orloff and the meek and blind Professor Dearborn. Jim & Livio discuss Lugosi's almost-wartime trip across the pond, the production, the 'H' code the film received from censors, and much more! 2024-06-281h 35
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastIsle of the DeadAuthor and educator David Bowles joins Jim Towns to discuss this Val Lewton-produced masterpiece of suspense and horror: 1945's Isle of the Dead, starring Boris Karloff! 2024-05-141h 47
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Creature Walks Among UsA Creature movie where the original incarnation of the Gill-Man appears for around 2 minutes! Jim & Livio tackle the third and final film of the Creature From The Black Lagoon series. In this film, a group of scientists (and their marital drama) do their best to change the Gill-Man into human form. Although this isn't the most action-packed movie, it is an underrated film that deserves a closer look. Come back to the Everglades one last time with us! 2024-05-031h 47
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastFreaksJim & Livio are back to discuss Tod Browning's unique, cult classic Dracula follow up: Freaks. This is a true one of a kind film, with a good story that boasts a great cast. In this episode we tackle the impact and legacy of this film, as well as the plot and inner workings of Tod Browning. 2024-04-181h 18
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastDr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - 1920One hundred and four years ago, John Barrymore stepped off the stage and before the cameras to help bring Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novella (and its titular dual lead characters) to life. One hundred and four years later, Jim Towns and David Ullman dissect this trailblazing piece of classic horror cinema. 2024-04-041h 50
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastGodzilla pt. 2Tony and Jim raid again! Join us for part two of our discussion of the 1954 Toho Studios masterpiece Godzilla! 2024-03-281h 01
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastAbbott & Costello Meet The MummyWhich one's the dead guy?? Join Jim and Livio and they tackle this in their review of the 1955 film Abbott and Costello Meet The Mummy. A later film in the A&C series, but not without humor, charm, and a bit of spookiness! 2024-02-221h 28
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastVampyrReturning co-host David Ullman joins Jim Towns for a foray into the esoteric world of Carl Theodor Dreyer's 1932 gothic masterpiece Vampyr! 2024-02-081h 56
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Strange Case of Dr. RX Mantan Moreland, Lionel Atwill, Anne Gwynne, Shemp Howard, Samuel S. Hinds, A gorilla suit, fish bowl glasses, more plot twists than you could ever hope for - This is just some of the lunacy that Jim and Livio tackle as we discuss 1942's Strange Case of Dr RX. This is a 'deep cut' in the Universal Horror cycle - so dust off those fish bowl glasses, and journey with us as we try to make sense of this! 2024-01-271h 25
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastDavid J. Skal tributeIn this audio version of the livestream, Jim is joined by Ian Bates from @UniversalStudiosMonsters and award-winning filmmaker, animator and top-tier Monster Kid Frank Dietz, to commemorate the life and work of David J. Skal: author, scholar and advocate for all things monsterific. Join them as they discuss David's influence on the course of each of their respective careers, and his prodigious influence on both classic monster scholarship and culture. 2024-01-251h 05
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastCry of the WerewolfMusician, graphic designer and horrorphile Chris Sahlin joins Jim to talk about Columbia Pictures' lesser-known 1944 werewolf film Cry of the Werewolf! 2024-01-101h 37
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastCalling Dr. DeathThis... is the Inner Sanctum! Jim & Livio finish 2023 just how they started it - by delving into another Inner Sanctum mystery, Calling Dr. Death. This is the inaugural Inner Sanctum starring Lon Chaney, Jr and also features the stunning Patricia Morison, as well as Universal regular J. Carrol Naish. Crack open a bottle of bubbly this New Years, and join us for an in depth look at this underrated Inner Sanctum mystery! 2023-12-281h 42
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastSon Of Kong Jim & Livio are back! and to celebrate, we are joining the soon to be indicted Carl Denham as he escapes back to Skull Island where he finds - the late King Kong's 12ft offspring. This is a hidden gem of a sequel, and we break it all down for you. Make sure to enjoy before the next Tropical Earthquake! 2023-12-141h 51
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastSpanish DraculaTexas-based author and educator David Bowles joins Jim Towns for a plunge into a true Universal horror one-off: the 1931 Spanish language version of Dracula, which was filmed at night on the same stages as the Browning/Lugosi version, and which stars an entirely different cast including Carlos Villarilla as Conde Dracula and Lupita Tovar as Eva [Mina].This excellently produced version of the film matches its English-language cousin in many ways, but at almost 30 minutes longer it also offers a fascinating alternative version of the film, including shots and sometimes entire scenes left unfilmed or edited out...2023-11-302h 29
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Devil BatWe're baaaccckk! Jim and Livio make a spooky return and dive into a fun "Poverty Row" film - The Devil Bat. This is one of several low budget horror movies starring Bela Lugosi from the 40's. We go into Lugosi's impact in these roles, his broader impact in our pop culture, the shortcuts of the production and of course, the film itself. Enjoy just in time for Halloween - and be careful of the aftershave you put on! 2023-10-261h 34
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastRevenge Of The Creature Jim & Livio return to the depths of the Amazon! In this episode we cover the first of two sequels to Creature From The Black Lagoon. We talk about everything from the story, the differences between the first two films, the logistics of filming in Florida, and much much more! 2023-07-201h 56
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastRevenge Of The CreatureJim & Livio return to the depths of the Amazon! In this episode we cover the first of two sequels to Creature From The Black Lagoon. We talk about everything from the story, the differences between the first two films, the logistics of filming in Florida, and much much more! 2023-07-201h 56
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastI Walked with a ZombieFor this episode Jim and frequent co-host David Ullman dive deep into RKO's 1943 Jacques Tournier/Val Lewton masterpiece I WALKED WITH A ZOMBIE- Betsy is a nurse sent to the Caribbean island of San Sebastian to care for Jessica Holland, an invalid woman. There she finds family secrets, forbidden love, and zombies.With a screenplay co-penned by Curt Siodmak (The Wolf Man) and based on Jayne Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, this film tells an atmospheric and seductive story filled with complex characters and interrelationships, painted in gorgeous black and white with a visual m...2023-07-061h 54
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastPhantom Of The Opera (1925), pt.2Jim & Livio wrap up with part two on the Phantom of the Opera! We cover the last half of the film, Chaney's make-up, the alternate endings, and the legacy of this movie! 2023-06-221h 36
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastPhantom Of The Opera (1925), pt.1What happens when Jim & Livio watch two different versions of the same movie? Find out in part 1 of our 2 episode discussion of the 1925 Phantom Of The Opera! This is truly a cornerstone for Universal Horror - the source code, as Jim calls it - and in part 1, we talk about the impact of the film, its stars, the many directors, as well as breaking down the first half of the film, the 1925 version. Feast your eyes, glut your soul on this accursed episode! 2023-06-081h 34
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastJungle CaptiveJim Towns and returning guest co-host Tony Salvaggio get into 1945's Jungle Captive, the third installment in Universal's Ape Woman series-- and their final monster franchise.Jungle Captive stars Vicky Lane (taking over for Acquanetta as Paula DuPree/the Ape Woman), cult favorite Rondo Hatton (House of Horrors/Brute Man/Spider Woman Strikes Back), Otto Kruger (Dracula's Daughter), and Phil Brown (Weird Woman/Star Wars: A New Hope). Directed by Harold Young and written by Dwight Babcock and M. Coates Webster. 2023-05-241h 59
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Mummy's CurseThis podcast is on the loose and we're dancing with the devil! Jim & Livio tackle the last chapter of the Kharis story - 1944's The Mummy's Curse. In this episode, we break down the story, the breakneck shooting schedule, the timeline of the Kharis films, and much much more! So - HEY YOU! Give this one a listen! 2023-05-111h 47
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Way You Walked Was Thorny: The Curse of Larry Talbot and Universal's Wolf Man LegacyBorgo Pass Horror Podcast presents another episode of "We Are the Monsters", hosted by Ian Bates of @Universalstudiosmonsters on Instagram. This episode features a live chat with Ian and Borgo Pass hosts Jim Towns and Livio Merino.Lon Chaney Jr. was the only actor to play Larry Talbot AKA the Wolf Man in the character's five appearances in Universal films, and the actor's connection to the character goes beyond simple casting. In this 90 minute live chat, the hosts review the history of the films, their key players, and the cultural echo they generated, which still lives on...2023-05-041h 35
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Invisible Man's RevengeJoin Jim & Livio as they tackle the fourth and final serious entry in the Universal Invisible Man series: 1944's The Invisible Man's Revenge. Jon Hall is in his second outing as the invisible one, though playing a different character. John Carradine gives a fantastic performance as the eccentric Dr. Drury, and the movie also boasts Gale Sondergaard, Lester Matthews, Evelyn Ankers and even Skelton Knaggs! Learn all about this story, it's place in the series and everything in between! 2023-04-271h 33
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Return of Dr. XSeries host Jim Towns is joined by returning guest co-host David Ullman for a 90-minute deep dive into a unique and underappreciated piece of undead noir cinema: as The Borgo Pass Horror Podcast presents The Return of Dr. X!Released by Warner Bros. in 1939, this film features silver screen icon Humphrey Bogart in his ONLY horror role as Marshall Quesne aka Dr. Maurice Xavier: a pathological surgeon who was sent to the electric chair for his hideous experiments--then brought back by medicine to a form of half-life, hunting for victims with his same rare blood...2023-04-131h 31
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastGhost Of Frankenstein, pt. 2The conclusion of our two part episode on Ghost of Frankenstein! Jim & Livio wrap up with the films action packed climax, discussion on the fate of Ygor, what the ending meant for the rest of the series and much more! 2023-04-0647 min
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastGhost Of Frankenstein, pt. 1Jim & Livio tackle Universal's 4th film in the Frankenstein series, and the first without Karloff - 1942's The Ghost Of Frankenstein. In part 1, they discuss the production, it's value compared to the first 3, Lon Chaney's busy year at Universal, and much much more! 2023-03-301h 25
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Seventh VictimJason Henderson of Castle of Horror podcast and Castle Bridge Media publishing joins Jim Towns for an in-depth discussion on RKO's The Seventh Victim, from 1943.Produced by Val Lewton and directed by first timer Mark Robson, the film stars a young Kim Hunter (Zira in Planet of the Apes), Lewton regular Tom Conway, Jean Brooks (The Leopard Man/The Invisible Man Returns) and Hugh Beaumont ("Leave it to Beaver") in a dark tale of devil worship and mental derangement, evocatively photographed in stark black and white-a Lewton trademark.Content W...2023-03-162h 33
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastRicou Browning tribute episodeIn this special episode, we present Ricou Browning: a Celebration of Life, recorded and streamed live on March 4, 2023 as part of the WE ARE THE MONSTERS series: moderated by Ian Bates of @Universalstudiosmonsters. Guest hosts include Jim Towns of the Borgo Pass, as well as Austin T. Hill of @Universalmonstersuniverse. Ricou Browning was born in 1930. While working as an underwater actor and marine entertainer in 1953, he was hired to escort the makers of the upcoming Creature from the Black Lagoon to a possible filming location in Wakulla Springs, Florida. After witnessing his impressive abilities as...2023-03-051h 28
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Hound of the BaskervillesIn this episode, our hosts take a perilous side trip to Devonshire, where a great hound has been prowling the moors. Watch out for the Great Grimpen Mire!Ian Bates joins series host Jim Towns in this deep delve into 1939's The Hound of the Baskervilles, which introduced the world to Basil Rathbone's touchstone performance as Sherlock Holmes. Produced by 20th Century Fox and co-starring Nigel Bruce as Holmes' faithful companion Dr. John Watson (and also featuring Universal faves Lionel Atwill and John Carradine), this film launched a series of movies and radio programs that would forever...2023-03-022h 09
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Monster And The GirlJim & Livio tackle this seldom seen Paramount movie from 1941! Featuring an all star cast, moody atmosphere, a surprisingly good story, and the great Charles Gemora - this film does not disappoint! From mad science, to human trafficking, to The Mob, to a large Gorilla with a human brain... this one has it all! Kick back and enjoy our take and review of The Monster and The Girl! 2023-02-172h 13
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastCreature From The Black LagoonIt's finally here! One of our more requested movies to cover - 1954's Creature From The Black Lagoon. Hear Jim & a slightly raspy Livio spend 3 hours discussing everything from the story to behind the scenes to post production to it's lasting impact, and everything in between. Keep your rotenone handy and travel with us to the far reaches of the Amazon... 2023-02-022h 46
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Black Cat (1941)Join Jim and very special guest Kat Hearons as they discuss this great horror-mystery from 1941: The Black Cat. An often overlooked film, Jim & Kat break down the movie, go into detail on the all-star cast, and of course - Bela Lugosi! 2023-01-191h 48
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastWeird WomanThis...is the Inner Sanctum! Kick off 2023 with Jim & Livio as they return to the realm of the Inner Sanctum with 1944's Weird Woman. Loosely based off 'Conjure Wife', this film follows Lon Chaney, Jr's Professor Norman Reed and his Island wife Paula (Anne Gwynne) as they tackle the beliefs of the supernatural, high education politics, and of course - murder. A stellar supporting cast, and Evelyn Ankers as a villain makes this a high mark in the Inner Sanctum series! 2023-01-051h 51
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastHouse of Frankenstein, pt. 2Part 2 of our year end episode covering 1944's House of Frankenstein. Jim, Livio, and special guest Tony Salvaggio follow Dr. Neimann's chamber of horrors as he leaves Dracula in the dust (literally) and meets Ilonka, revives both Frankenstein's Monster and The Wolf Man, and tries to complete his quest for revenge. Celebrate the New Year with us in Vasaria (or was it Frankenstein?) and blame the headache on trying to decipher all the brain transplants! 2022-12-291h 59
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastHouse of Frankenstein, pt. 1Hordes of horror spawned by the devil! Now all together in one horrific podcast! Join this Devils Brood of Jim Towns, Livio Merino, and special guest Tony Salvaggio as they close out 2022 with a two part episode on 1944's House of Frankenstein. Universal's first 'Monster Rally' features an all star cast, a quick but effective production and a fantastic music score. In this first part, Jim, Livio, and Tony discuss the beginnings of this monster mash, the casting, brain transfers, and dissect the "Dracula" half of the movie. Spend your Yuletide with this very special Borgo Pass episode! Part 2...2022-12-221h 19
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Mummy's GhostJoin Jim & Livio as they take their talents to Arkam (formerly Karnak) and discuss the 3rd film in the Kharis franchise - The Mummy's Ghost! This movie sees a change in direction for both Kharis & Ananka, the reintroduction of reincarnation, and a very downbeat and grim ending. Jim & Livio cover all of this as well as several behind the scenes stories and opinions! For who shall defile the temples of the ancient Gods...shall be a cruel and violent death! 2022-12-082h 07
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastTower Of London Thanksgiving gatherings have you feeling that you're trapped in a prison? Fear not! Pop in some headphones and listen to Jim & Livio breakdown the epic 1939 Universal Tower Of London. Over 2 hours of an in depth look at this masterfully produced movie, you'll hear everything from historical fact and details concerning the real events to production background and where we think this ranks in comparison to the more well known Universal Horrors. 2022-11-242h 15
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastTower Of LondonThanksgiving gatherings have you feeling that you're trapped in a prison? Fear not! Pop in some headphones and listen to Jim & Livio breakdown the epic 1939 Universal Tower Of London. Over 2 hours of an in depth look at this masterfully produced movie, you'll hear everything from historical fact and details concerning the real events to production background and where we think this ranks in comparison to the more well known Universal Horrors. 2022-11-242h 20
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastAbbott & Costello Meet The Killer, Boris KarloffFresh off the heels of Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein, Universal goes back to the well with 1949's Abbott & Costello Meet The Killer, Boris Karloff. Join Jim and special guest David Ullman for this in depth look at this classic 'who done it' horror/comedy! 2022-11-102h 07
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastKing Kong, pt. 2Jim & Livio wrap up the great and influential King Kong! Part two of our special Halloween episode takes us from Kongs appearance in the jungle all the way through the heartbreaking ending! 2022-10-291h 27
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastKing Kong, pt. 1Happy Halloween! Our big Halloween episode this year is on arguably the most influential movies of the 20th century - King Kong! In part one, join Jim and Livio and they discuss the impact of this movie, the groundbreaking ways they made the film, and the movie itself, up until the appearance of Kong. Part two will drop on Saturday night! 2022-10-271h 16
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastReturn Of The VampireWhat do you get when you mix Bela Lugosi, a werewolf servant, and Nazis?? You wind up with 1943's Return of the Vampire! Join Jim and special guest Kat Hearons for this look into a non-Universal horror film of the early 40's. Lugosi is very prominently featured here and is backed by a decent supporting cast and terrific music score - join us for a discussion on Lugosi and this great film! 2022-10-132h 05
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastDr. Jekyll and Mr. HydeJoin Jim and special guest David Ullman as they take a deep dive into this pre-code classic from Warner Brothers! This movie packs a major punch, still even today and absolutely pushes the limits with violence and sex. Made the same year as Dracula, this movie earned Fredric March an Academy Award for best actor. So grab your favorite elixir, and listen to the show as you stare into the mirror to watch yourself transform into a hideous alter ego! 2022-09-292h 15
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Brute ManThe Creeper stalks again! Join Jim and Livio as they discuss the sequel (or is it prequel?) to House of Horrors - The Brute Man! Rondo Hatton's last movie, also the last of the Universal Horror films from the 40's "B Movie" era. This film is truly a diamond in the rough, and Jim & Livio discuss Rondo, how this film ended up in public domain, and Jim gives great insight into the greatness of some of these lower budget movies. Take a listen and make sure not to let any strange creeper person in your window at night! 2022-09-151h 33
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastJungle WomanJim welcomes special guest Tony Salvaggio to talk about all things Jungle Woman! This 1944 follow up to Captive Wild Woman continues the story of Paula Dupree - The Ape Woman! This is another seldom seen Universal Horror - but one with a great supporting cast and definitely worth talking about! 2022-09-011h 53
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Mad GhoulYou fool, you madman, what have you done?! Join Jim & Livio as they chronicle the misadventures of Zombie Ted and Dr. Morris. In this episode, you'll hear all about this lesser known entry in the Universal canon, as well as Evelyn Ankers as a singer (and potential villain), the great Robert Armstrong, George Zucco, Jack Pierce's makeup, Hans Salters music, Ben Pivar's production, and more! 2022-08-191h 37
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Invisible Man ReturnsOn the heels of the success of Son Of Frankenstein, Universal goes further into the sequel pool with the Invisible Man Returns! In this episode, Jim & Livio break down this hidden gem of Universal Horror sequels. We cover Vincent Price, the comparisons to Claude Rains, Curt Siodmak, the music & special effects, the long shooting schedule and everything in between! 2022-08-052h 15
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastSon Of Frankenstein, part 2Part 2 of our episode on the 1939 epic: Son Of Frankenstein! Join Jim & Livio as they discuss the climatic last half of this wonderful movie! You'll hear them discuss behind the scenes stories and anecdotes of Karloff & Lugosi, the styles of Rathbone and Atwill, Donnie Dunagan's memories of the film, and the action packed final scenes! 2022-07-211h 17
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastSon Of Frankenstein, part 1Wellllll Helllllloooooo!! Join Jim & Livio as they do a deep dive on the wonderful Son Of Frankenstein from 1939! This is a polarizing film - and one of extreme importance! In part 1 hear them discuss the films production, music, the quartet of Lugosi, Karloff, Rathbone, and Atwill, differences between James Whale and Rowland V. Lee, and much more! 2022-07-141h 43
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastSpider Woman Strikes BackJoin Jim with very special guest Ian Bates as they delve into a Universal Horror deep cut - The Spider Woman Strikes Back! 2022-07-011h 02
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Mummy's TombJim & Livio tackle the 2nd in the polarizing Kharis saga! For a movie that's 60 minutes long, with 15 minutes of flashbacks - there's a lot of stuff to cover here! We go into the switch from Tom Tyler to Lon Chaney, the boldness of the story and the demise of the previous film's heroes, stunt work, the ever-questioned time frame of the Kharis films, and how Jim has 4 degrees of separation from Elyse Knox! Download and listen now - or face the wrath of the high priests of Karnak! 2022-06-192h 02
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastWhite Zombie (1932)Join us on the Borgo Pass as we usher in a new season! Jim & Livio talk all about the Bela Lugosi classic from 1932: White Zombie! 2022-06-061h 58
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastMystery Of The Wax Museum (1933)Ivan Igor is a sculptor who operates a wax museum in 1921 London. He gives a private tour to a friend, Dr. Rasmussen and an investor, Mr. Galatalin showing them sculptures of Joan of Arc, Voltaire, and his favorite, Marie Antoinette. Formerly a stone sculptor who did wax modeling as a hobby, he explains he turned to wax sculpting completely because he felt more "satisfied" that he could reproduce "the warmth, flesh, and blood of life far better in wax than in cold stone". Mr. Galatalin, impressed by his sculptures, offers to submit Igor's work to the Royal Academy after...2022-03-061h 37
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Invisible Ray (1936)A visionary astronomer, Dr. Janos Rukh, has invented a telescope that can look far out into deep space, into the Andromeda Galaxy, and photograph light rays that will show the Earth's past. He has theorized about this being possible for some years, much to his discredit among his fellow scientist-colleagues. Looking at the remote past on a planetarium-like dome in his lab, two of those ardently skeptical scientists, Dr. Benet and Sir Francis Stevens, watch a large meteorite smash into the Earth a billion years ago, in what is now the continent of Africa. Amazed by Rukh's demonstration, the...2021-08-151h 34
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastHorror Island (1941)Bill Martin, is the proud owner of a small boulder of an island off the coast of Florida called "Morgan's Island." It is a deserted useless rock to Bill, but by pure chance he stumbles across a treasure map pointing to his island. The map is presented to him by a peg-legged old sailor, Tobias Clump, after Bill and his friend "Stuff" Oliver saves the man from drowning. Clump was pushed into the water by a "phantom," who got away with part of the treasure map. Clump tells them that the map shows the way to infamous buccaneer Sir...2021-08-011h 49
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastColin Clive Tribute with Mr Greg MankThis episode pays tribute to the great stage and Hollywood actor Mr. Colin Clive; best known for his role as Henry Frankenstein in 1931's "Frankenstein" and 1935's "Bride Of Frankenstein. Joining the Pass is very special guest- Universal horror historian and author Mr. Greg Mank. Mr. Mank's book "One Man Crazy! The Life and Death of Colin Clive" is referenced in many of our discussions points and can be ordered on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Crazy-Death-Colin-Hollywoods-Frankenstein-ebook/dp/B0825V6XML/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+life+and+death+of+colin+clive&qid=1626563726&sr=8-1You...2021-07-181h 13
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastIsland Of Lost Souls (1932)Shipwrecked traveler Edward Parker is rescued by a freighter delivering animals to an isolated South Seas island owned by Dr. Moreau. After Parker fights with the freighter's drunken captain for his mistreating M'ling, a passenger with some bestial features, the captain tosses Parker overboard into Mr. Montgomery's boat, bound for Moreau's island .When Parker arrives at the island, Moreau welcomes Parker to his home and introduces him to Lota, a young woman whom Moreau claims is of Polynesian origin, and who seems fearful and withdrawn. When she and Parker hear screams coming from another room, which Lota...2021-07-112h 30
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastSon Of Dracula (1943)Hungarian Count Alucard, a mysterious stranger, arrives in the U.S. invited by Katherine Caldwell, one of the daughters of New Orleans plantation owner Colonel Caldwell. Shortly after his arrival, the Colonel dies of apparent heart failure and leaves his wealth to his two daughters, with Claire receiving all the money and Katherine his estate "Dark Oaks". Katherine, a woman with a taste for the morbid, has been secretly dating Alucard and eventually marries him, shunning her long-time boyfriend Frank Stanley. Frank confronts the couple and tries to shoot Alucard, but the bullets pass through the Count's body and...2021-06-202h 16
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Black Cat (1934)Newlyweds Peter (David Manners) and Joan Alison (Julie Bishop), on their honeymoon in Hungary, learn that due to a mixup, they must share a train compartment with Dr. Vitus Werdegast (Béla Lugosi), a Hungarian psychiatrist. Eighteen years before, Werdegast went to World War I, never seeing his wife again. He has spent the last 15 years in an infamous prison camp in Siberia. On the train, the doctor explains that he is traveling to see an old friend, Hjalmar Poelzig (Boris Karloff), an Austrian architect.Later, the doctor, Peter, and Joan, share a bus, which crashes on a...2021-06-062h 06
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Wolf Man (1941)Larry Talbot (Lon Chaney Jr.) returns to his ancestral home in Llanwelly, Wales to bury his recently deceased brother and reconcile with his estranged father, Sir John Talbot (Claude Rains). While there, Larry falls in love with a local girl named Gwen Conliffe (Evelyn Ankers) who runs an antique shop. As an excuse to talk to her, he purchases a walking stick decorated with a silver wolf's head, and Gwen tells him that it represents a werewolf (which she defines as a man who changes into a wolf "at certain times of the year".) Various villagers recite a poem...2021-05-231h 53
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Mummy's Hand (1940)In Egypt, Andoheb travels to the Hill of the Seven Jackals in answer to the royal summons of the High Priest of Karnak. The dying priest of the sect explains the story of Kharis to Andoheb, involving the theft of sacred tana leaves that can restore life to the dead Princess Ananka, who Kharis secretly loves. Kharis' penalty upon being discovered is to be buried alive, without a tongue, and the tana leaves are buried with him. During the cycle of the full moon, the fluid from the brew of three tana leaves is to be administered to the...2021-05-031h 38
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastMurders In The Zoo (1933)Big-game hunter and wealthy zoologist Eric Gorman (Lionel Atwill) is an insanely jealous husband who uses his animal knowledge to dispose of his impulsive wife's lovers. The film opens in an Indian jungle with Gorman using a needle and thread to sew a colleague's mouth closed after having discovered that he had kissed his wife, and then he seals the man's fate by abandoning him in the jungle with the wild beasts. Gorman later pretends to be surprised at hearing that the man had been eaten by tigers. Both Gorman and his wife Evelyn (Kathleen Burke) then return to...2021-04-181h 34
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastWerewolf Of London (1935)Wilfred Glendon (Henry Hull) is a wealthy and world-renowned English botanist who journeys to Tibet in search of the extremely rare selenotropic plant known as mariphasa lupine lumina. While there, he is attacked and bitten by a creature later revealed to be a werewolf, although he succeeds in acquiring a specimen of the mariphasa. Once back home in London he is approached by a fellow botanist, Dr. Yogami (Warner Oland), who claims to have met him in Tibet while also seeking the mariphasa. Yogami warns Glendon that the bite of a werewolf would cause him to become a werewolf...2021-04-041h 16
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastDracula's Daughter (1936)Dracula's Daughter begins a few moments after Dracula ends. Count Dracula has just been destroyed by Professor Van Helsing (Edward Van Sloan). Van Helsing is arrested by two Whitby policemen, Sergeant Wilkes (E. E. Clive) and constable Albert (Billy Bevan). Van Helsing is sent by the Whitby police to Scotland Yard, where he explains to Sir Basil Humphrey (Gilbert Emery) that he indeed did destroy Count Dracula, but because he had already been dead for over 500 years, it cannot be considered murder. Instead of hiring a lawyer, he enlists the aid of a psychiatrist, Dr. Jeffrey Garth (Kruger), who...2021-03-211h 19
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Raven (1935)After Jean Thatcher (Ware) has been injured in a car accident, her father, Judge Thatcher (Hinds) and beau Jerry (Matthews) implore retired surgeon Dr. Richard Vollin (Lugosi) to perform a delicate operation to restore her to health. Vollin agrees and is successful; he befriends the spirited and grateful Jean, in the process revealing his passion for all things related to Edgar Allan Poe, including his homemade collection of torture devices inspired by Poe's works (such as a pit, pendulum with crescent razor, shrinking room, etc.), and identifying the raven as his talisman.After Vollin reveals his growing...2021-03-141h 35
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastHouse Of Dracula (1945)Count Dracula arrives at the castle home of Dr. Franz Edelmann. The Count explains that he has come to Visaria to find a cure for his vampirism. Dr. Edelmann agrees to help, believing that vampirism can be cured by a series of blood transfusions. The Count agrees to this, and Edelmann uses his own blood for the transfusions. After, The Count has his coffin placed in the castle basement. That night, Lawrence Talbot arrives at the castle demanding to see Dr. Edelmann about a cure for his lycanthropy. Talbot is told to wait, but knowing the moon is rising...2021-03-071h 47
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastCaptive Wild Woman (1943)An animal trainer Fred Mason (Milburn Stone) returns from his latest safari with a horde of animals for his employer John Whipple (Lloyd Corrigan), owner of the Whipple Circus. Among them is Cheela (Ray Corrigan), a gorilla with remarkably human characteristics. Mason's fiancée Beth Colman (Evelyn Ankers) is present at the dock for his return. She tells him of the recent health problems encountered by her sister Dorothy (Martha MacVicar). Beth reflects on taking her sibling to see Dr. Sigmund Walters (John Carradine), an endocrinologist of some standing. Dorothy is staying at Walters’ Crestview Sanatorium for treatment. Fred and...2021-02-281h 13
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastFrankenstein (1931)In a village of the Bavarian Alps, a young scientist named Henry Frankenstein and his assistant Fritz, a hunchback, piece together a human body. Frankenstein desires to create a human, giving this body life through electrical devices he has perfected. But he still needs a brain for his creation. Henry's fiancée Elizabeth speaks with their friend Victor Moritz about the scientist's increasingly peculiar actions and how he secludes himself. Elizabeth and Victor ask Dr. Waldman for help in understanding Henry's new behavior and Waldman reveals he is aware Dr. Frankenstein wishes to create life. Concerned for Hen...2021-02-211h 43
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastNight Monster (1942)In a small town bordering a swampy region, unexplained murders and rumors of mysterious happenings surround the swamp-based home of the reclusive but respected Curt Ingston (Morgan). Ingston uses a wheelchair and has invited to his home the three doctors who were trying to cure him when his paralysis set in. Already in the household are his grim-humored butler Rolf; a lecherous chauffeur, Lawrie; a mannish housekeeper, Miss Judd; an Eastern mystic, Agar Singh; and Ingston's allegedly mentally ill sister, Margaret. Outside, the gate is watched by a shrivelled old hunchback called Torque.Coincident with the arrival...2021-02-141h 08
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastHouse Of Horrors (1946)Struggling sculptor Marcel De Lange (Martin Kosleck) is depressed about events in his life, and decides to commit suicide. Just as he's about to kill himself, he sees a madman, known as "The Creeper" (Rondo Hatton), in the process of drowning, and saves him. Taking the disfigured man into his care, he makes him the subject of his next sculpture and calls it his best creation. When critics denigrate Marcel's work, he has the Creeper start killing them. Marcel becomes obsessed with Joan, a beautiful female reporter who believes the deaths are related. When Marcel invites her over and...2021-02-0755 min
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastThe Invisible Man (1933)On a snowy night, a stranger with his face swathed in bandages and his eyes obscured by dark goggles, takes a room at The Lion's Head Inn in the English village of Iping in Sussex. The man demands that he be left alone. Later, the innkeeper, Mr. Hall, is sent by his wife to evict the stranger after the stranger has made a huge mess in his room while doing research and has fallen behind in his rent. Angered, the stranger throws Mr. Hall down the stairs. Confronted by a policeman and some local villagers, he removes his bandages...2021-01-311h 08
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastMan Made Monster (1941)A tragic accident occurs when a bus hits a high power line. The incident has claimed the lives of all on board, except for one Dan McCormick (Lon Chaney, Jr.), who survives because he is, surprisingly, immune to the deadly electricity. McCormick does a sideshow exhibit as Dynamo Dan, the Electric Man and is taken in by Dr. John Lawrence (Samuel S. Hinds), who wants to study him. However, Dr. Lawrence's colleague, mad scientist Dr. Paul Rigas (Lionel Atwill) desires to create an army of electrobiologically-driven zombies. He gives McCormick progressively higher doses of electricity until his mind is...2021-01-2452 min
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastDracula (1931)The Borgo Pass Horror Podcast is extremely excited to premiere our first full length episode! Renfield is a solicitor traveling to Count Dracula's castle in Transylvania on a business matter. The local village people fear that vampires inhabit the castle and warn Renfield not to go there. Renfield refuses to stay at the inn and asks his carriage driver to take him to the Borgo Pass. Renfield is driven to the castle by Dracula's coach, with Dracula disguised as the driver. En route, Renfield sticks his head out the window to ask the driver to...2021-01-171h 23
Borgo Pass Horror PodcastIntroduction to the Borgo Pass Horror PodcastHosts Scott Kelley and Jim Towns discuss their first meeting, their mutual love and respect for the Universal horror classic movies, their collaborative discussions in creating the podcast, as well as their aspirations for the show's future. 2021-01-1116 min