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October 02.2025
3 Minutes Read

Rediscovering Deathstalker: A Sword and Sorcery Adventure for KC

Fantasy characters in a mysterious forest setting at Kansas City events.

There's a New Warrior in Town: Deathstalker Renews a Cult Classic

Fans of fantastical adventures and thrilling escapism are in for a treat: Fantastic Fest 2025 is showcasing the much-anticipated Deathstalker remake. Directed by the visionary Steven Kostanski, known for his previous success with Psycho Goreman, this new sketch of a cult classic promises both a nostalgic kick and a refreshing twist. The low-budget charm of the 1983 original is being briskly revived, ushering in an exciting wave of sword and sorcery cinema in today’s film landscape.

Cyborgs and Sorcery: The Revival of an Era

As Hollywood rushes to reboot its most cherished films, Kostanski looks elsewhere for inspiration—digging into the often-overlooked genre staples that once adorned the shelves of Blockbusters in the '80s and '90s. His Deathstalker resonates with a playful irreverence that captures both the spirit and the essence of its predecessors. With a cast led by Daniel Bernhardt, the film transports viewers to a fantasy world besieged by the threatening Dreadite army, led by an ancient sorcerer long thought dead. The humor-filled, blood-soaked journey proves that not all reboots need to lose their charm in translation.

Under the Hood: A Look at Kostanski's Vision

“The Deathstalker universe is such a fun sandbox to play in,” Kostanski remarked recently. This enthusiasm is palpable all through the film, which bursts with unique characters and outlandish adventures. Fans familiar with Kostanski’s oeuvre recognize his love for practical effects and creative storytelling; here they come alive, transforming what could have been a mere nostalgia trip into an engaging experience.

A Masterful Mix: The Role of Music in Deathstalker

The film's musical score, built by frequent collaborators Blitz//Berlin alongside Slash and Bear McCreary, strikes a balance between fantasy epic and heavy metal. This sonic layering translates to spellbinding adventures, underscoring the emotional stakes while paying tribute to the offbeat magic of cinema history. Slash’s participation is no vanity—his eagerness to breathe life into the original themes adds a reverberating heartbeat to the film, granting it a modern, millennial edge.

Community Connection: Deathstalker and Its Local Premiere

This event couldn’t be more timely for Kansas City residents interested in engaging with their local film culture. With films like Deathstalker resonating with the indie scene, Fantastic Fest 2025 serves as a prime opportunity to revisit the unique genre films that shaped fandom history. The local indie film community thrives on such creativity, providing fertile ground for both filmmakers and fans.

A Call to Adventure Amidst Uncertain Times

With the elevations of CGI and high budgets dominating the current cinematic landscape, Kostanski's insistence on practical effects reflects a longing for the storytelling simplicity found in earlier works. Deathstalker allows for the potential of viewers to rediscover the pure, unadulterated joy of filmmaking, making it a beacon of light amid troubled times. It invites not just an audience but a community to rekindle the bonds of appreciation and conversation around genre films.

So, as Kansas City continues to develop its local culture and event scene, be sure to keep an eye on upcoming film screenings, local festivals, and other community happenings inspired by the resurgence in creative storytelling. Whether or not film ultimately reflects our lives, it still carries the gift of escapism, reminding us of the vibrant realms beyond our everyday existence.

Join The Community: Share Your Local Stories!

Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com, and let’s connect!

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11.15.2025

Explore the Heartwarming Vibe at The Book Club: Your New Go-To Spot in Kansas City

Update Discover the Warmth of The Book Club in Kansas City If you’re looking for a more cozy cafe experience in Kansas City, look no further than The Book Club. This unique establishment captures the essence of community and comfort, featuring both a bookstore and cafe that invites patrons to relax, sip, and savor. Co-owners Matthew and Kimberly Hoppock took the plunge into this venture, transforming the former Paulie D's Pizza location into a vibrant social hub. A Unique Combination: Bookstore Meets Cafe The Book Club isn't just another cafe. It combines the joy of browsing books with the pleasure of enjoying freshly made sandwiches and pastries. With a selection ranging from children’s literature to contemporary bestsellers and handmade journals, it's a haven for both readers and food lovers alike. As you browse, you can also enjoy a variety of pastries and lunch items, such as the quintessential tuna salad sandwich nestled in a buttery croissant. The Delicacies That Await On a recent visit, I indulged in a delicious tuna salad sandwich complemented by house-made chips. The croissant was delightfully flaky, and the tuna salad was a testament to the quality of ingredient choices. Add to that a rich hot chocolate made from house ganache, and you have an afternoon treat that encapsulates the essence of comfort. Everything served at The Book Club is priced reasonably, making it accessible to everyone. A Welcoming Atmosphere Where Community Thrives But what truly sets The Book Club apart is its inviting atmosphere. As I entered, I instantly felt a sense of warmth and belonging. The cafe is designed for lounging, where guests can enjoy their meals while immersed in a good book or engaging in lively conversation with friends. During my visit, I noticed individuals and groups sprawled comfortably across the space, each lost in their own worlds yet part of a collective experience. This communal vibe is supported by a friendly staff who not only serve delectable meals but also engage with customers, creating a homey feel. Giving Back: A Heart for the Community Beyond its culinary offerings, The Book Club has earned its reputation through its commitment to the community. Recognizing local needs, the cafe offers free grilled cheese sandwiches from 2 PM to 6 PM for anyone who needs a meal. This initiative echoes the sentiments of other local cafes, like The Literary in Champaign, which provide free meals to SNAP recipients during times of funding uncertainty. These efforts embody the spirit of support and care for our community, showcasing how local businesses are stepping up to make a difference. Join the Movement: Support Local This is why it's essential for all of us to support local establishments like The Book Club. Whether you're a bibliophile eager to discover new reads or a food enthusiast seeking cozy spots for casual dining, The Book Club has something special for everyone. So the next time you find yourself looking for things to do in Kansas City, make it a point to visit this delightful spot. Embrace the atmosphere, relish in the food, and perhaps even strike up a conversation with someone new! If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

11.15.2025

Go Indigo Revitalizes the ’00s Sound with Unique AVEC AMOR EP

Update Go Indigo: Reviving the ’00s Sound with a Fresh Twist Go Indigo, a spirited indie pop band hailing from the Kansas City music scene, is breathing new life into the early 2000s sound with their latest EP, AVEC AMOR. Frontman Beau Harris and his bandmates, guitarist Riley Corbin and bassist Jeremy Klein, are on a mission to create music that resonates with nostalgia while appealing to modern sensibilities. Their sound, which beautifully blends Midwest emo with hints of house, aims not only to entertain but also to connect listeners on a deeper level. Crafting a Signature Sound The creative journey of AVEC AMOR has been one of thoughtful experimentation for Go Indigo. In a recent interview, Harris expressed, "We've been refining our sound by putting out music and assessing ourselves after live shows." Rather than rushing to a culmination, they meticulously evaluated their creations, often discarding parts that didn’t contribute to what they envisioned as a cohesive pop statement. For them, writing catchy pop songs is both a challenge and a joy, as they mix textures from noisy indie rock with polished pop elements. This careful balance of creativity aims to cater to listeners seeking both familiarity and freshness in sound. From Live Testing to Studio Success One fascinating aspect of Go Indigo's artistic process is their approach to live performances. Harris draws an analogy from the world of stand-up comedy, stating that comedians often test their jokes in front of audiences without being overly attached. Through this lens, Go Indigo experiments with their material on stage, observing audience reactions to see what resonates. This has resulted in transformative changes to their EP tracks based on live experimentation, helping the band refine their selections for final cuts. This mentality not only enhances their musical repertoire but also builds a stronger connection with local audiences who value authenticity. Balancing the Old with the New Nostalgia plays a critical role in Go Indigo’s mission to connect with their audience, especially those who remember the vibrant sounds of the 2000s. Their culturally rich music merges the edgy grit of indie rock with nostalgic pop undertones, offering a refreshing take while honoring the past. Harris notes, “As I’m getting into my later twenties, I see all these things I want to change … the only one who can is me,” symbolizing an evolution in his songwriting that echoes life’s inevitable transitions. Community Connections: Engaging Kansas City Local connections are at the heart of Go Indigo’s approach. Their music is not just an entertainment beacon but also an invitation for Kansas City residents to engage more deeply with their local culture. As they prepare for upcoming concerts and events, this band emphasizes the importance of supporting local music scenes. From live shows to upcoming festivals, there are plenty of local events in Kansas City that highlight homegrown talent. Anticipation and Excitement for What’s Next With their EP AVEC AMOR out now, Go Indigo is set to release a music video soon, and additional EPs are already on the horizon for next year. The precautions they take to ensure that each piece of music is polished reinforces their long-term vision for impact in the Kansas City scene and beyond. Wrapping Up: Why You Should Tune In For locals, Go Indigo's music offers a chance to reminisce on past sounds while nourishing a growing Kansas City music scene. Their vibrant blend of familiar yet innovative tunes speaks to every listener. If you’re looking for live music in Kansas City, don’t miss out on experiencing Go Indigo in concert. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. Join in the conversation and stay connected with the pulse of your community!

11.14.2025

Celebrate Holiday Cheer with Jinkx & DeLa at The Uptown in Kansas City

Update Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme Light Up Kansas City This Holiday SeasonGet ready, Kansas City! This December, the fabulous Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme, two powerhouses of drag, are taking over The Uptown for their latest holiday extravaganza. Known for transforming the typical holiday show into a glittering spectacle, this dynamic duo promises a night filled with laughter, music, and yuletide cheer that you won’t want to miss. For the past eight years, they've created memorable holiday shows, and this year, they'll unveil a brand-new production filled with their signature charm, taking place on December 11.The Drag Duo's Journey to FameBoth Jinkx and DeLa found fame through the renowned reality show, RuPaul's Drag Race, but long before that, they were honing their craft in the vibrant Seattle drag scene. Their journey from local stars to national figures has been marked by an unyielding friendship and a shared passion for musical theater. In an exclusive interview, Jinkx recently shared with us insights into their creative process, emphasizing that every year, they co-write and develop a fresh script, which captures the joy and absurdity of the holiday season.The Creative Process Behind the Holiday ShowThis year, the creative process has taken an interesting twist. Jinkx stepped into the role of Mary Todd in Oh, Mary! during September, allowing DeLa to take the reins in writing their holiday show. “While I was busy being Mary Todd, DeLa was penning a brilliant script that I cannot wait for our fans to see. It’s this collaborative spirit that keeps our shows fresh and exciting,” Jinkx explained. The duo’s writing sessions are intense, filled with laughter and brainstorming, as they work to craft the perfect blend of humor and heart for their audience.A Show That’s Always EvolvingWhat sets their performances apart is their commitment to making each show a unique experience. They typically hold preview shows before hitting the road, allowing them to feel out the audience's reaction and fine-tune their performance. “It’s live theater,” DeLa remarked, adding that their shows naturally evolve with audience reactions. “We’re always finding new laughs and deliveries, and we thrive off the excitement in the room.” It's this unpredictable element that creates unforgettable moments, like last year when a mishap caused fits of laughter that brought their Kansas City audience to tears.Why Attending Is More Than Just EntertainmentAttending The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show isn’t just about the entertainment; it's an opportunity to embrace the spirit of community and local culture. This festive season, as you consider things to do in Kansas City, this show acts as a delightful reminder of how the performing arts support local economies. Supporting local events like this not only spreads cheer and joy but also helps in maintaining the vibrant cultural identity of Kansas City.Your Opportunity to Join the FestivitiesExcited to experience the show for yourself? Make sure to mark your calendars for December 11 at The Uptown Theater! Whether you’ve been a longtime fan of drag or are simply curious to see what it’s all about, this is the ideal occasion to enjoy live music Kansas City loves, immerse yourself in the humor and gorgeous artistry of contemporary drag, and perhaps even get inspired to find your own moments of joy this holiday season.Stay Connected with Your Local CommunityHave a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com. We’d love to hear from you about your experiences at local events, especially as the city gears up for a vibrant holiday season full of festivity and cheer!

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