5280 Geek

🚗😈 DEVIL IN THE TRUNK Is Hitting the Road — And You Can Help Bring It to Life!

A thrilling new Colorado horror project is revving its engine and preparing to hit the road! Cofoh: Colorado Festival of Horror friends and Six Feet Under Horror Fest forensic pathologists, Leon Kelly and Dan Lingamfelter, will soon be launching the crowdfunding campaign for DEVIL IN THE TRUNK—and horror fans can help bring this nightmare to life!

Crowdfunding is often the lifeblood of independent horror filmmaking. Your support helps transform a passion project into a polished feature by funding critical elements like sound design, color grading, visual effects, festival submissions, marketing, and distribution. When you back an indie film, you're not just watching the finished product—you become part of its story.

A love letter to the gritty road thrillers of the 1970s and 1980s, Devil In The Trunk delivers dread-filled, character-driven horror inspired by classics like Duel, Christine, Death Proof, and No Country for Old Men. Expect real stunts, practical effects, relentless tension, and the kind of cinematic obsession horror fans crave.

And the best part? Leon and Dan will also be returning to Colorado Festival of Horror: Clowns vs. Witches, Sept 18-20, 2026, where you'll have a chance to meet the minds behind this exciting project in person! Plus attend another of their infamous forensic pathology presentations!

🔥 Be among the first to know when the campaign launches:
https://seedandspark.com/fund/devil-in-the-trunk?token=74c88aaa1e324c3fbbde85fd2a38dfe85b7291cf35c5a41dad735726813b09ab

Devil in the Trunk - Film and Storytelling | Seed&Spark A love letter to gritty 70s and 80s road thrillers, Devil in the Trunk is dread-soaked, character-driven horror made by indie filmmakers for fans of films like Duel, Christine, Death Proof, and No Country for Old Men—crafted with real stunts, practical effects, and pure cinematic obsession.

The new ‘Masters of the Universe’ movie is out. Based on the 80’s popular toy line from Mattel which is over 30 years too late, maybe they are trying to relaunch a toy line or maybe trying to appeal to the nostalgia of Gen X and capture those memories to pass on to new generations? I don’t know because ‘He-Man’ was always pure cheese and I’m not sure if today’s audience will appreciate that or even if the movie makers want to do cheese anymore. But I do have to see it, not sure why, I just need to see this movie.

*The MEAT* The story explains everything for all newcomers to understand. The story also makes fun of itself and updates it for our time and yes, does it’s best to keep the Cheese Factor alive.

*The PATATOES* Idris Elba is the only well-known accomplished actor in the cast and he, of course, does a good job. I do not consider Jered Leto as a full cast member because he is only the voice of Skeletor and to be honest, I wish he would have played Skeletor with a higher voice, but that’s just me. As for the lead role, Nicholas Galitzine… He did an admirable job as Prince Adam, and he definitely looked the part of He-Man. I’m sure you will be able to get his autograph soon at FanX Con near you.

*The VERDICT* Well, I got my 80’s nostalgia and cheese dose in Masters of the Universe’. About halfway through this movie, it started to remind me of the classic 1980 film ‘Flash Gordon’. Yeah, that ultimate cheese movie that no one outside of Gen X will ever understand, let alone enjoy. Then to my happy surprise, in a pivotal point in the movie a Queen song breaks out, Boom! That is the moment ‘Masters of the Universe’ won me over and made me glad I spent the money on it for the theater experience. However, that is me and I am Gen X, I don’t see where Millennials will enjoy this film at all, but I do see where Gen Z might give it a chance and approve of what entertainment was for kids growing up in the 80’s.
Everyone, Please Stay Safe...
Stay Healthy...
And as always… Stay Geeky!

It’s a great day to be a comic book enthusiast! A big week would be putting it mildly as we set into the summer heat and the hot titles fans have been eagerly awaiting. Stop by our sponsor Vault 35or all of these picks and more, including variant covers as we see DC going All In with the latest Barbara Gordon needing to Breakout and some answers at last for Firestorm. Image this week finishes The Thing on the Doorstep, D’orc still entreating the masses, and the latest trade paperback for the Scrificers. Bishop is back, an odd team-up in Black Cat, and yes Thor is still Mortal. All of this awaits and more as we’ve got picks from the vault and five stacked high ready to fly!

#1> Selina Kyle has carved a good life for herself. Through her ingenuity and skills, she’s become the greatest thief the world has ever known. With high-tech gear and weaponry, there’s no place too secure for Catwoman. But when someone from her past comes knocking at her door, Selina’s life comes crashing down around her and she’ll need to get to the bottom of a mystery taking her all around the globe!
(S) Che Grason, Scott Snyder (A) Bengal
Smurfs Take> Her introduction in Absolute Batman was flawless giving us just enough yet leaving so many unanswered question. The Absolute universe has done an amazing job of twisting what we know and almost making us question the status of our heroes. With a deeper dive into Catwoman being the latest addition I can only imagine what’s instore for the fans. Deep breath…here we go.

#33> OPTIMUS' NEW AUTOBOT TEAM REVEALED!
A new team of Autobots remains on Earth under Optimus’ leadership.
But can they come together after the battle between Optimus and Elita?
(S) Robert Kirkman (A) Mike Spicer, Jason Howard
Smurfs Take> A whole new direction under new leadership, but heavy is the head that wears the crown. Optimus always made it look easy, the hard decisions to this point have caused him to doubt almost everything and there’s still a few mysteries left unanswered. Is it him or is it the Matrix? Lots to work through, questions to be asked, and a whole lot of action.

#1> ARMAGEDDON HAS ARRIVED! Red Hulk's devastating tear across the globe must be stopped... but it will take a colossal gathering of Earth's Mightiest Heroes to do it! Calling in the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, Wolverine and more...but who will survive this super-powered cataclysm?! There will be a pre-Armageddon Marvel Universe and a post-Armageddon Marvel Universe. Be here to bear witness to the transformation.
(S) Chip Zdarsky (A) D**e Ruan
Smurfs Take> I'm excited to see this finally happen and should have a long time ago. I hated who the Red Hulk turned out to be and then it just sort of ended and got forgotten. Ross was made to look like a pawn in a bigger plan when he started out to be such a massive threat. It's about time Ross gets chased if I'm honest but I home to see some of that tactical geniuses return in this series.

#3> On the Xenomorph-infested planet SOVRYN, humanity has already fallen. The augmented human Idris is among the few survivors, but he is now a prisoner of his brother, the Green King. But even if Idris can escape, he must then confront what awaits just beyond the protective walls of the Green King's compound...
(S) Saladin Ahmed (A) Carlos Nieto
Smurfs Take> This has been a great direction in the Aliens universe and to be honest very unexpected. I was going to read it regardless, don’t get me wrong but this has been way past expectations as we get deeper into the story. It’s an Alien story on a whole new level!

#1> NEW SERIES THE NEXT PHASE OF THE ENERGON UNIVERSE STARTS HERE! The world is becoming a terrifying place. Matt Trakker needs your help saving it. Enter M.A.S.K. -- a network of specialists recruited to respond to the next global emergency. At a moment’s notice, Trakker and his agents can deploy bleeding-edge technology that converts their vehicles--and their drivers--into the ultimate weapon. But Miles Mayhem and V.E.N.O.M. are one step ahead in a secret arms race, scouring the globe for deadly weapons from this planet and beyond, ready to sell out the entire human race. Only M.A.S.K. can stop them… but will Trakker’s own secrets jeopardize their entire mission? Powerhouse creators DAN WATTERS and PYE PARR launch the most anticipated new series of the year, where anyone--and everyone--in the Energon Universe must join the fight for humanity’s survival. This is the first-ever Energon Universe blind?bag?program. The blind?bags will include a chance to get ANY of the solicited M.A.S.K. #1 covers, A-K, intermixed at varying degrees of rarity. However, there are rare SURPRISE variant covers related to the Energon Universe that can be found in these blind?bags. Those SURPRISE covers will not be announced publicly in advance of the M.A.S.K. #1 release.
(S) Dan Watters (A) Pye Parr
Smurfs Take> I’m of mixed thoughts on this title, and while we haven’t seen the Energon Universe miss the mark yet could this be the overreach. I loved the toys, the new relaunch of the toy line a few months ago and a big fan of the cartoon back in the day even if I don’t remember much of the story lines. The introduction into the series was fine, and maybe I was expecting a little more than what we got but I can understand not wanting to give it all away. I’m in for at least five issues, see if it can capture the magic from long ago because I really want to see this work.

Picks for the Vault

#1> An all-new ONGOING series launch from legendary JAE LEE (THIS ENDS TONIGHT, SEVEN SONS)!
When 17-year-old Dev moves to Japan, she stumbles into an underground world of illegal street racing, where speed is power and mutation wins championships. This high-octane sci-fi drama, set in a near-future Tokyo, is Fast and Furious by way of K-Pop Demon Hunters.
(S) Lily Windom, Robert Windom (A) June Chung, Jae Lee
Smurfs Take> This just looks like a fun read! Speed Racer meets monsters was my first thought with some great art and a little more intrigue. Can absolutely see this one taking off with all of the various blending going on.

: Jays of Future Past #1> DOOM DECREES "THE DIM-WITTED DUO MUST DIE!" Capped, tan American Jay and friendly neighborhood wider-man Silent Bob make a quick stop in the Marvel Universe! But when Doctor Doom decrees these Jersey guys must die, the Fantastic Four, the Avengers, the X-Men and and a whole hoary host of heroes must team up on a joint mission to save the dim-witted duo from a lethal case of super-hero fatigue! "From the moment in Mallrats when they made the very first reference to Wolverine in cinema history, I've always wanted Jay and Silent Bob to meet their Marvel heroes in a comic book crossover - so much so that I pitched it to Stan the Man himself the day he shot his cameo in the movie way back in 1995. Thirty years later, Jays of Future Past represents both a love letter to the magic and mayhem of Marvel as well as giggle-inducing proof that our childhood dreams can still come true, even at age 55." - Kevin Smith
(S) Kevin Smith (A) Scott Koblish
Smurfs Take> Of course we couldn’t overlook this issue. Such a great idea and excited to see Kevin writing another story that hits close to home for him. The wild idea behind it just seems like the perfect storm for comic and Kevin Smith fans alike treated with the same clever humor we’ve come to expect from his films.

🎨 COFOH 2026 Badge Artists Revealed! 🎨

We're thrilled to announce that this year's official Cofoh: Colorado Festival of Horror badge artists, Thane Benson and Alyssa Leischer (Alystrations), will be joining us in the Death Dealers Room at Colorado Festival of Horror: Clowns vs. Witches, Sept 18-20, 2026!

Here's a couple sneak peeks at the incredible talent behind this year's collectible badge artwork! 👀

🔥 VIP attendees will receive an exclusive collectible badge and commemorative tote bag featuring original artwork by Thane Benson, courtesy of our friends at L.S. Strange.

🎟️ While VIP badges have completely SOLD OUT, you can still secure a 3-Day Weekend Badge and receive an exclusive collectible badge featuring original artwork by Alyssa Leischer (Alystrations)—a must-have keepsake for horror fans and collectors alike.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/colorado-festival-of-horror-2026-clowns-vs-witches-tickets-1978311226132?aff=oddtdtcreator

Be sure to stop by the Death Dealers Room to meet both artists, check out their work, and add some killer art to your collection!

Follow the artists:
🖌️ Thane Benson: https://www.instagram.com/thanebenson/
🖌️ Alyssa Leischer (Alystrations): https://www.instagram.com/alyssaleischer/

🎪🤡🧙‍♀️ The battle of Clowns vs. Witches is coming. Are you ready?

Interview with 5280 Geek
CJ Leede, author of HEADLIGHTS

Thanks to Matt Mäenpää for knocking out this amazing interview with CJ about their new book!

Hello CJ! Thanks for taking some time to chat with us at 5280 Geek. To start, how would you describe Headlights for readers new to your work?
People are waking up on the side of the highway in Colorado with no memory of how they got there, naked except for the skin of a person they’ve allegedly never met hanging from their shoulders, and a single human hair tied around their tongues. Tortured FBI agent Daniel Stansfield now must return to Denver and face his own horrific and painful past in order to solve the case and stop the killings before he or his loved ones are next. The book is a total love letter to Denver, and Colorado (I live on the road and always feature *place* as a huge part of my books, and all my books are love letters to different parts of America!). It’s a road trip novel, grief horror, a supernatural detective thriller, and there’s a romance, because there always is in my books. And it’s a lot about ecosystems and finding our place in the world. And for the Denver folks, there are lots of fun landmarks and local spots to find throughout the book!

What are some inspirations for this delightfully horrifying tale? What are some of the hidden influences?
The Shining was huge for this! As a card carrying member of the *horror people* of the world, I felt I couldn’t write a Colorado book and not have The Shining be a huge part of it. I explicitly interact with it a lot in the book. Also, Silence of the Lambs was big for me writing this, John Denver, outlaw country music which I associate with Colorado as my family out there are pretty western, Longlegs, X Files, True Detective Season one, and my own relationship with Colorado, which has really been a lifelong and ever-evolving love story.

You've stated in other interviews that writing Maeve Fly and American Rapture helped you process and tackle some difficult things, was Headlights an equally cathartic experience?
Yes, and no. My first two books were so much about rage, about things I didn’t like, problems I saw in the world and in myself. They felt like screams into the void. And after I wrote them, I felt a little more raw and exposed and realized what was underneath all that feeling, which was just… grief. After I’d gotten so much of the loud feeling out, I was left with this question that I really couldn’t let go of, which was: What is death? And also, Where do our loved ones go when we lose them? Can we ever reach them again, and do they even want us to? This book, while dark and brutal in some ways, in a lot of ways is gentler than my other two. I’m posing a question and offering a possible answer, rather than stating something about the world (or my perspective on it). Writing this book changed my relationship with death, grief, and life, in a profound way. And where I felt I let go of things with my other two books, with this one I think I found something new in the dark to take with me. And all of it, all three of them, have felt necessary and just the most authentic expression of where I’ve been in each moment and what I’ve had to offer to the reader, the world, and myself.

You've taken readers through Los Angeles and Wisconsin with your previous novels, what made Colorado the choice for Headlights? How much of the detail in the setting was researched remotely versus visited?
To me, Colorado has always been a place of staggering beauty and endless possibility, but also of cold and the wild and a lot of hauntings and darkness in its past. When I was younger, I’d come up and visit from Texas, and I was never that impressed with Denver being so flat and the mountains being so far away (I had flat land at home already!), but as I’ve gotten older, my deeper understanding of Denver’s place at the end of the Great Plains, and sitting just before these formidable mountains, has really unlocked the true beauty of it all for me. The ecosystems, the city’s role in history. When I was a kid, there were times I’d be driving through the mountain roads leaving Denver, heading somewhere higher, and I remember at night watching the headlights cut through the snow, the uncertainty of never knowing what was beyond them in the dark, or around the next turn. All of that feels to me just like the uncertainty of grappling with death and so many of these unknowns of life. It just felt perfect to me, Colorado as the place to tell this story. To explore all these ideas.
As far as research goes, I did a lot in person! I’ve been lucky enough to have grown up with a lot of family in Colorado, so it always felt like this sort of secondary home state to me. But in the course of writing the book, I also discovered a ton of new, and I endlessly consulted my family who live there. I also got to go and live there for a few weeks at a time this last year, and drive around and really get eyes and on the ground experience of the places I’d included in the book that I hadn’t spent a ton of time in before (which was good… because I’d gotten a lot wrong from just looking at maps online)! It’s an amazing place, and I feel honored to have gotten to inhabit it, literally, but also mentally (spiritually?) in the course of writing this book.

What were some of the pieces that came together when developing your protagonist, our poor haunted FBI agent? What surprised you as he came to life on page?
I got so hung up early on on trying to *write a male character* from his POV, and everyone kept asking, how are you going to do that? And it really wasn’t working at first. But one day it just occurred to me, I just needed to treat him like a human being and forget about his gender, which ended up being completely inconsequential anyway. He’s in a lot of ways more sensitive and tormented than Maeve and Sophie (my other two protagonists), and he so badly wants to be a good person and do right by the world. He’s just… himself. I don’t know, this book was an odd one in that I just sort of *knew* him from the beginning, but I just had to find my way in to figuring out how to tell his story, if that makes sense.

Any favorite (non-spoilery) moment from this book? Were there moments in this book that you found particularly upsetting to write?
I really loved writing the scenes between Daniel Stansfield, and Nat Tillman, his partner on the case and also the guy now dating/living with his ex-wife. And yes, much of writing this book was upsetting! But like I said, it helped me find some real comfort in a difficult time. My hope with all my books is that readers come to them and get to FEEL deeply– every feeling. Disgust, horror, rage, fear, grief, pain, arousal, confusion, laughter, joy, yearning, ecstasy, heartbreak. And maybe when they close the book at the end they can either put something down that hasn’t been serving them to carry, or can take something new with them. Whatever that thing is–and I would think it might vary by reader–but that’s my real goal in this whole thing. And maybe it’s taken me getting three books in to really see that, and to be even more intentional about it moving forward.

What's next for you? Any cool events coming up in Denver we should know about?
Yes! I’ve got a big tour coming up, and my Denver stop is going to be at Tattered Cover Aspen Grove on June 12th! I’d love to see anyone and everyone there, and to chat all things Denver and Colorado and Blucifer (always)! All of that tour info can be found on my socials, and on my author page on Macmillan’s website.

What are you reading these days? Any favorite horror movies from the last couple years?
Currently reading Rachel Harrison’s new book, Kiss Slay Replay, and Never Whistle at Night 2 (edited by Shane Hawk and Ted Van Alst), and they’re both amazing. I’m actually not the biggest movie and tv person–aside from The Shining, and Take Me Home (the John Denver biopic), both of which I watched (and made my boyfriend watch) many many times in the writing of this book. The Shining actually is kind of a repeat comfort watch for me, whatever that says, and I love the miniseries too.

Where can our readers find you across the vast and terrifying internet?
Beware, it truly is terrifying! I’m on socials– mostly Instagram, but also threads and Bluesky, my handle is ceejthemoment for all three. I’ve got a website in the works too, but tour info and latest is easiest to find on IG!

Thank you so much! I really enjoyed these questions and answering them!
-CJ
Photo Credit: Ryan Pfluger

The incredible weekend wrapped with these hobbits doing what they do best - spreading merriment and joy to all. Dominic Monaghan, Billy Boyd, Elijah Wood and Sean Austin at Fan Expo Denver 2026.