Film still 'Nosferatu' (1922), F. W. Murnau

Eminent film critic Mark Kermode will give an illustrated talk exploring why horror matters and what he loves about it, tracing the history of the genre from Nosferatu through The Exorcist to Saint Maud.

He has written many books about film and music, including three volumes for the BFI Modern Classics series, on The ExorcistThe Shawshank Redemption and Silent Running. He was chief film critic for The Observer between 2013 and 2023, and has presented numerous TV and radio shows, including the BBC Two programme The Culture Show. Kermode currently co-hosts the BBC Radio 4 series Screenshot with Ellen E. Jones. His Kermode On Film podcast returns for a new series this month.

Kermode, who wrote his PhD thesis on modern English and American horror fiction, has a longstanding interest in horror. In 2004, he co-curated a History of the Horror Film season and exhibition at the National Film Theatre in London with his wife the film professor Linda Ruth Williams.

We aim to keep CAST’s ticket prices low to enable the widest possible audience to enjoy our programme. Mark Kermode’s talk is a very special event for us and we are extremely grateful to him for showing his support in this way. We would be very grateful if you are able to purchase a supporter’s ticket for the event or make a donation towards our future work here.

Saturday 19 October 2024 Admission £15, including CAST Café supper from 6pm

Booking essential