DIRECTOR'S CUT: Cinema Therapy meets Robert Kirkman // Narcissism in RENFIELD
How do you stand up to a narcissistic abuser? What does setting boundaries look like?
Licensed therapist Jonathan Decker and filmmaker Alan Seawright are joined by one of Alan’s storytelling heroes, Robert Kirkman, to talk about his most recent creation, Renfield. They discuss how the film succeeds in telling a story of escaping a narcissistic abuser while being both wholesome and gory. Jonathan explains why Renfield’s experience in group therapy to understand and break free of his co-dependent relationship with Dracula is so realistic. Robert shares insights about the creation of the story and bringing it to life with the wonderful cast, and Alan praises the sharp writing that shines through all the humor and gore. They banter about the banter in the film, and they forget the best line: GROW TO FULL POWER!
Go see Renfield! https://www.renfieldmovie.com/
Comments (29)
I feel so bad but half my attention keeps being taken up by the fact that Alan isn't centered in his shot XD Seriously tho this movie. Nic Cage my god no one chews the scenery quite like him.
This movie was so much fun and I don't think I've had a movie like this make me laugh that much in a LONG time. Probably not since Tucker and Dale vs Evil. The over the top gore was just *chefs kiss* beautiful. And of course anything with Nicolas Cage is magical. But it was the psychology of it that truly got to me. I recently stood up to my biological father after over a decade of emotional and mental abuse. Always focusing on him, how to make him happy, how to get him to accept me, believing that without him I'm nothing. As Cage said so wonderfully "A HUSK!" until I realized I deserve love and happiness. That I am enough. That I don't need him to feel good about and love myself (Big kudos to my therapist). And finally told him that I refuse to put up with his abuse and will not let him bully me anymore. That he can either get help or get out because I don't need him. And after watching this I felt validated with my decision! So thank you internet dads! You're the best! Love you and everything you do! <3
This movie was delightful. The comedy gore reminded me SO much of sean of the dead etc but also Tucker & Dale Vs. Evil. Everything worked so brilliantly Loved the lighting nods to the universal monster magazine. Definitely brought out the film nerd in me.
I had to go see the movie before I watched this (fear of spoilers). I enjoyed it so much. I didn't hear any comments on Renfield's updated wardrobe or home decor, but the juxtaposition of Dracula against those candy colors was brilliant. Kudos to the costume and set designers.
Just watched this film and really liked it. The apartment scene was excellent. And the head of the support group gave me such Jono vibes.
What?! That's so weird, why would you phrase it like that? But YES!
Thank you for this episode. It was so cool to get so many insights into the movie! And I guess I will actually go to a movie theater tomorrow for the first time in forever just so I can watch this movie 😂
Do it!
thank you for this Director's Cut. i really like the moments when you talk about the production, especially the cinematography and lighting design. so cool. and i meannnn Robert Kirkman!!🤩
He was so amazing to have on!
Can you react the new Shrek movie?
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish? I can!
Thank you for featuring this film and talking about the psychology of learning to stand up to a bully. My kid needed to hear that. She has been struggling with understanding how she could have any power against her bully because when she stands up to him he still conquers her feelings. Hearing you talk about the scene with Nicolas Cage overtaking Renfield and his learning to stand up for himself against someone who has all kinds of experience and practice on the other side. You gave her reason to practice standing up for herself and once again believe that she can learn to do this more effectively. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
I loved reading this and you are so welcome!
Just saw this a few days ago cause it looked weird and vampire. Very fun show, thanks
you're welcome!
Total side note but: Jono, where are all your outlet covers??? Did a vampire take them?
We're remodeling and that's my office. All my kids are old enough that it's not an immediate threat.
Wouldn't Dracula be more of a psychopath than a malignant narcissist? I know the two are right across the fence from each other, but there's still a difference. Then again, to a victim of this kind of abuse, I doubt the difference would matter a whole hell of a lot. Definitely another movie I need to see! I swear, my movie list was a mile long before I found CT, and now it's another few miles long. 🤣 Love you guys.
I think a case could be made either way :)
This wasn't a movie I knew anything about and usually I don't watch the episode if I haven't seen the movie but I did this time -- and I am DEFINITELY going to see this next week! Fantastic episode, loved it!
Thanks so much! Enjoy the movie!
Great episode- love the little fangs as "i"s and loved learning and laughing with y'all
Jono - have you seen Bullet Train? I am NOT a fan of gore AT ALL but Bullet Train..... It was exactly how you described Renfield at the top of the video. Fun and gory as hell. Lol As a person who doesn't like dark undertones in movies and hates gore; I 👍👍 HIGHLY recommend watching Bullet Train
Haven't seen it yet, but I plan to!
I haven't seen this one but I love the Alamo Theaters subtext 🤣 *RENFIELD* AND YOU THOUGHT YOUR BOSS SUCKED
Alamo is my fav theater chain! - Jono
I'm gonna guess that my initial answer of cower and let them run you over like a welcome mat to avoid conflict was not the answer you were looking for?.....
🤣🤣🤣 that doesn't sound like a CT response, no 😜
