The Dread Alert Podcast

“She Killed with a Smile” | Chad Ferrin Talks Dorothea and the Art of True Crime Horror

Dread Alert Media Episode 17

What happens when true crime meets dark comedy and classic horror style? In this episode of the Dread Alert Podcast, Vince sits down with indie horror legend Chad Ferrin, writer, director, and producer of Dorothea, a twisted true crime horror film based on real events.

Ferrin, known for Ed Kemper and The Ghouls, dives deep into his filmmaking process, blending gritty realism with 80s-inspired visuals, split diopter shots, and a haunting score by Richard Band (Re-Animator, From Beyond). Hear how Ferrin turned the story of an elderly serial killer into one of the most surprising horror-comedies of the year, balancing laughs, chills, and shocking truths.

Topics covered:

  • The true story behind Dorothea and adapting real crime into horror
  • Balancing dark humor with respect for real victims
  • Collaborating with composer Richard Band
  • Low-budget filmmaking and run-and-gun directing
  • Why Goodfellas, De Palma, and Mario Bava influence Ferrin’s style
  • Upcoming projects: Sunset Strip Killers and The Devil’s Disciple

Whether you’re a horror fan, filmmaker, or true crime junkie, this episode is full of filmmaking insight, killer anecdotes, and indie spirit.

Dorothea releases November 4th on VOD

Follow Chad on Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chad.ferrin/

X: https://x.com/SKATD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chad.ferrin/


 

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