Ep. 38 The Cathars, Templars, and the Mysterious Allure of the French Pyrenees

Truth & Shadow Podcast

In this episode of the "Truth and Shadow" podcast, host BT delves into the mystical and historical realms of the French Pyrenees with filmmaker Richard Stanley. Stanley shares his experiences living in the region, focusing on the enigmatic histories of the Cathars and Templars. The discussion touches on prophecies, supernatural phenomena, and the cultural significance of the area. An unidentified individual adds a poetic and mysterious narration, enhancing the episode's atmospheric feel. The conversation also explores the adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft's "The Color Out of Space" and its connection to the region's mystique.

Richard Stanley Website: https://theofficialrichardstanley.com/
Mr. Stanley will be hosting a special screening of COLOR OUT OF SPACE at RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) Museum on Thursday August 9th as part of the Rhode Island Film Festival (RIFF) and intends to use the school's sound system to access frequencies commonly forbidden in regular auditoria. This show will be followed by an exclusive Lovecraft themed soirée on the roof of the Biltmore Hilton in central Providence at which Mr. Stanley intends to make a very important announcement regarding the future of the franchise. Tickets can be purchased here

Music from Munknörr's album: Futharuna
Used with express and written permission from owner.
get yours here: https://munknorr.bandcamp.com/album/futharuna
Their Website: https://munknorr.bandcamp.com

Time Stamps

The prophecy of the green laurel (00:00:05) Discussion of the alleged prophecy regarding the return of the old ways after seven centuries.

Exploring the mystical and historical realms of the French Pyrenees (00:01:00) Introduction to the episode and the exploration of the supernatural and historical aspects of the French Pyrenees.

The history and beliefs of the Cathars (00:02:23) Insights into the beliefs and history of the Cathars, a medieval Christian sect, and their enduring legacy.

The enigmatic allure of the French Pyrenees (00:03:35) Richard Stanley's experiences living in the mystical region and its influence on his creative work.

Poetic and enigmatic narration (00:04:59) A poetic and enigmatic narration setting the tone for the episode.

Introduction of Richard Stanley (00:05:53) Discussion of Richard Stanley's role as a filmmaker and his creative process.

The history and cultural significance of the French Pyrenees (00:07:31) Richard Stanley's location in the French Pyrenees and its historical and cultural significance.

The complex history of the French Pyrenees (00:09:23) Discussion of the region's complex history, including its independence and assimilation into France.

The persecution of the Cathars and Templars (00:11:45) Insights into the persecution of the Cathars and Templars by the Holy Roman Church and the kings of France.

The courts of love and the power of women in old Occitan (00:19:05) Discussion of the courts of love and the power of women in old Occitan society.

The alleged prophecy and recent events (00:21:52) Discussion of recent events related to the alleged prophecy regarding the return of the old ways after seven centuries.

The inquisition and its legacy (00:26:07) Discussion of the crimes of the inquisition, its impact on modern systems, and partial apology by the Holy Roman Church.

The prophecy and regional changes (00:27:31) Impact of popular vote on regional changes, abolition of formal departments, and the so-called prophecy.

The dangers of prophecies (00:28:55) Risks associated with belief in prophecies and the potential dangers posed by believers.

Encounters with the supernatural (00:30:03) Experiences with the supernatural, including encounters at a castle and the sensation of an unseen presence.

Mystical phenomena and solstice alignment (00:34:17) Discussion of solstice phenomena at a castle, alignment with seasonal positions of the sun and the moon, and dismissive arguments.

Geometric alignment and magical science (00:36:53) Exploration of geometric alignment, potential magical science, and the connection to gothic architecture.

Personal experiences and unique storytelling (00:43:14) The speaker's unique perspective on storytelling, personal experiences, and the influence of specific elements in his films.

Challenges in film production and anomalies (00:49:56) The unique circumstances and challenges in film production, including budget constraints and the anomalous nature of the film's existence.

Sintra, Portugal (00:50:24) Discussion of filming in Sintra, its history, and its association with notable figures like Aleister Crowley and Roman Polanski.

Lovecraftian Horror (00:52:13) Exploration of the fear of the unknown, cosmic horror, and the concept of different individuals experiencing the supernatural in varying ways.

Richard Stanley's Projects (00:55:13) Richard Stanley discusses his work on the Dunwich Horror and his long-standing desire to bring the character Wilbur Whateley to life.

Lovecraft's Relevance (00:57:47) The relevance of Lovecraft's work in shedding light on social justice and ethical conflicts, particularly in the Dunwich Horror story.