About

The Miskatonic Institute of Horror Studies is an organization based in Montreal, Canada that offers a variety of theory and production-based workshops. Miskatonic is a non-profit, community-based endeavour through which established horror writers, directors, scholars and programmers/curators celebrate horror history while helping enthusiastic fans of the genre to gain a critical perspective.

Often critically disdained, the horror genre is associated in many people’s minds with misogyny, superfluous violence, poor writing, and worse acting. But there is a lot more to horror films than meets the eye – and in such a media-saturated age, it’s important for young genre fans to be given the tools with which they can become responsible viewers. In Miskatonic courses, they’ll get to see rare scare films with a group of like-minded fans of all ages, as well as the chance to connect with horror professionals who can help them to respond with intellectual curiosity and steer them toward a career in the world of horror films and fiction.

The Miskatonic Institute of Horror Studies was founded by Kier-La Janisse in March of 2010, with co-directors Mario DeGiglio-Bellemare and Kristopher Woofter coming on as full partners and curriculum coordinators in fall of 2010. Originally housed at the Blue Sunshine Psychotronic Film Centre (2010-2012), Miskatonic’s new home as of fall 2012 is the Peut-être Vintage Microcinema, an intimate microcinema fully equipped with 16mm and HD projection in Montreal’s Mile-end neighbourhood.

 In addition to the regular September-May curriculum in Montreal, Miskatonic instructors are also available to travel as guest lecturers upon request. For details, email Kier-La Janisse at bigsmashproductions@gmail.com.