Why do we enjoy being SCARED so much? What is it that Horror movies are tapping into that keeps us coming back for more? Truth is - they can reveal a lot about the fundamental fears of being human.
Film fans are well acquainted with vampires, werewolves, zombies, and the human replacements from Invasion of the Body Snatchers, but most may not be aware about the corresponding conditions of Renfield's Syndrome, clinical lycanthropy, Cotard's Syndrome, not to mention the many misidentification delusions (the belief that one has been altered or replaced). The “real” folklore behind some of these scary creatures may well surprise you.
Join Dr. Brian Sharpless on a journey through the movie monsters of the Golden Age of Cinema through to modern day monsters and even some “monstrous” behaviours (cannibalism etc).
Viewed through the lens of clinical psychology and psychiatry, Brian will give you a better understanding of history, folklore, and how Hollywood often - but not always - gets it wrong when tackling these complex topics.
Dr. BRIAN SHARPLESS
Brian is a licensed psychologist and author. He received his PhD in clinical psychology and MA in philosophy from Pennsylvania State University and completed post-doctoral fellowships at the University of Pennsylvania.
He has authored more than fifty professional publications including three books for Oxford University Press. His latest book, Monsters on the Couch: The Real Psychological Disorders Behind Your Favorite Horror Movies (Chicago Review Press), will be released on October 3rd.
His research interests include common and unusual psychological disorders, psychotherapy, professional issues, and the history of mental illness.
Presentations take place upstairs in the Nightingale Room at the Grand Central, opposite Brighton Station.
DOORS OPEN: 7pm
TALK STARTS: 7:30pm
Talk is followed by a short break and an audience Q&A