In The Cabin in the Woods, Dana thinks she’s headed for a weekend of fun with friends, but ends up in a bloody, mind-bending fight for survival where the real horror is who's pulling the strings. This week, we dig into Dana’s role as the archetypal Final Girl in a world that literally demands sacrifice, exploring how the film deconstructs horror tropes and leaves you with plenty of belly laughs along the way.We also talk gods, conspiracy, stoner prophets, and the stakes of Dana’s decision in the final moments.Here is the referenced episode of Who's There: A Podcast About Horror Fans.Spoiler Warning: The ancient ones demand blood and spoilers, so consider this your warning before you descend into the cabin’s basement.Love Final Girls? Leave us a rating or review—it helps more horror nerds find the pod, and might just spare us from global annihilation.Theme by Max Anson Visit us at www.final-girls.com
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1:01:33
Ripley from Alien
In space, no one can hear you scream—but Ripley makes damn sure they hear her survive. In Alien (1979), Sigourney Weaver redefined what a Final Girl could be: smart, resourceful, emotionally grounded, and completely unafraid to torch a xenomorph when it comes down to it. This week, we board the Nostromo and break down Ripley’s iconic status, how she shattered the gender norms of horror, and why her legacy still looms large over the Final Girls canon.We also explore the film’s themes of bodily autonomy, corporate exploitation, and fear of the unknown—and why Ripley remains the gold standard for survival when the monster isn't just in the shadows, but inside the system.Content Note: There is a discussion about sexual violence as a major theme in this film.Spoiler Warning: There are some things lurking in the vents—like Alien spoilers. Listen at your own risk.If you’re loving Final Girls, a quick rating or review helps other horror fans find the pod—and it means we don’t have to send a distress signal to deep space.Theme by Max Anson
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53:49
Brigette from Ginger Snaps
Blood is thicker than water—and sometimes it’s also a curse. In Ginger Snaps (2000), Brigitte Fitzgerald isn’t just watching her sister Ginger transform into something monstrous—she’s being pulled into the change right alongside her. This week, we sink our teeth into one of horror’s most iconic sister duos, exploring how Brigitte’s quiet strength, loyalty, and desperation to save Ginger make her a deeply compelling Final Girl.We also dig into the film’s darkly brilliant metaphor for puberty and how Brigitte’s journey forces her to navigate the blurry line between codependence and survival. Werewolves, blood pacts, and suburban dread—this one has it all.Spoiler Warning: This episode is full of transformations, trauma, and Ginger Snaps spoilers. You’ve been warned.If you’re digging Final Girls, rating and reviewing the show helps more horror lovers find us—and keeps us from going full werewolf.Theme by Max AnsonVisit us at www.final-girls.com
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58:37
Naru from Prey
Long before Dutch faced the Predator in the jungle, Naru was already rewriting the rules of the hunt. In Prey (2022), Amber Midthunder brings fierce intensity to Naru, a young Comanche woman determined to prove she’s more than what her tribe expects of her. This week, we track Naru’s journey from underestimated healer to full-fledged warrior, discussing how the film flips the franchise’s macho legacy on its head and celebrates Indigenous resilience, skill, and survival.We also dive into how Prey honors Final Girl tradition while pushing it forward—because Naru isn’t just surviving the Predator, she’s challenging the gendered and colonial expectations placed on her from the start.🩸 Spoiler Warning: We’re spilling guts and spoilers—so watch Prey before pressing play.If you’re loving Final Girls, help us out by rating and reviewing the show—it helps more horror fans (and aspiring warriors) find us.🎵 Theme by Max Anson 💻 Visit us at www.final-girls.com
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37:58
Iris from Companion
In Companion, Iris (Sophie Thatcher) isn’t just fighting for survival—she’s fighting for control over her own identity. Designed to be the perfect partner, our companion bot Final Girl is placed into a role she never chose, reflecting the way young women are automatically slotted into traditional gender roles by society. But as her weekend getaway takes a dark and violent turn, Iris begins to reclaim her autonomy, proving that survival isn’t just about escaping danger—it’s about breaking free from the expectations forced upon her. This week, we explore how Iris’s Final Girl arc challenges ideas of obedience, agency, and self-determination, leading to Iris’s final declaration of total self-control. 🔪🤖🔥🩸 Spoiler Warning: Freedom comes at a price—and so does listening to this episode unspoiled. You’ve been warned!If you enjoy Final Girls, take a moment to rate and review us—it helps more horror fans find the show, and we’d love to hear your thoughts!🎵 Theme by Max Anson 💻 Visit us at www.final-girls.com
Final Girls is a dynamic podcast that dives deep into the world of horror by examining one iconic final girl per episode. Co-hosted by Kellie and Sarah—both UC Davis alumni with strong academic backgrounds—each installment dissects the tropes, triumphs, and challenges of these resilient characters. Drawing from Kellie’s expertise in Human-Computer Interaction and Film, and Sarah’s insights from History and Political Science, the show brings a unique blend of sharp analysis and genuine passion to every discussion.
Each episode explores the final girl's journey in detail, from the creative escape scenes that have become cult favorites to the narrative complexities that define their battles against overwhelming odds. Final Girls celebrates the spirit of women who fight back, inviting listeners to rethink classic horror tropes and appreciate the empowering narratives that make these characters enduring cultural icons.
This podcast is not only a must-listen for horror enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in the intersection of storytelling, gender, and cultural critique.
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