INTERVIEW: ‘Deathgasm’ story expands thanks to Bit Bot Media
Image courtesy of Bit Bot Media / Provided by Superfan Promotions with permission.
The successful horror-comedy known as Deathgasm is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, and there are big plans for Jason Howden’s creation in the months ahead. First off, there’s a sequel to the New Zealand film on the horizon, and it’s called Deathgasm II: Goremageddon. In the project, Howden will expand the story of a heavy metal band that unwittingly summons an evil spirit known as the Blind One.
Next up, Bit Bot Media is getting in on the Deathgasm fun with two projects: an 80-page graphic novel called Deathgasm 1.5: Director’s Cut and a 16-bit video game based on the film, according to press notes. Both of these projects are being funded via Kickstarter, with the campaign set to end in a couple of days. As of press time, Bit Bot Media has been able to amass more than $30,000 in pledges against a $6,660 goal.
Recently Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Joshua Viola, co-founder of Bit Bot Media and writer of the prologue for Deathgasm 1.5. He co-founded the company with multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and producer Klayton, who is known for Celldweller and Scandroid. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
What did you love the first time you watched Deathgasm?
The film is one of those rare gems where everything just clicks. It’s high concept, but executed with exactly the right tone. It’s genuinely funny, packed with great practical effects and performances, and strikes a perfect balance between humor, gore and horror — all with a heavy-metal edge that sets it apart. There’s really nothing else like it.
How did this partnership between the Deathgasm folks and Bit Bot Media come about?
I came on board as a producer for the upcoming sequel, working alongside my business partner Klayton (Celldweller). That’s when I got to know Jason (the writer, director and creator), which opened the door for us to get more involved with the franchise in some really fun ways. We’ve since expanded into a graphic novel, video game, merchandise and even a quick cameo in the new film.
What can fans expect from Deathgasm 1.5: Director’s Cut?
The graphic novel captures everything that made the film great. It balances humor, gore and high stakes really well. But in my opinion, it goes even further by pushing the envelope in ways the film couldn’t. There’s some truly over-the-top, outrageous stuff that you just wouldn’t be able to pull off on screen without an NC-17 rating. It really dives into the world with zero restrictions.
Have you achieved some of your initial dreams when you co-founded Bit Bot Media?
It’s pretty surreal co-owning a company with your favorite musician (I’ve been a huge Celldweller fan for years). But beyond that, it’s been incredibly rewarding. In just over a year, we’ve had the opportunity to work on major franchises and iconic names like Soul Reaver, The Rocky Horror Show, Cyberpunk 2077, Nickelback, The Jim Henson Company and more to develop graphic novels, films, video games, music, merchandise and beyond. It’s a lot of work, but when you’re building around the things you love, it’s absolutely worth it.
What’s it like to move into the video game space with the acquisition of FreakZone Games?
I’ve been working in video games for the past two decades, so this space feels pretty familiar. Back in the day, I worked on licensed titles like Pirates of the Caribbean, The Smurfs, TARGET: Terror and more. Klayton has provided music for a number of games, including Killer Instinct, Dead Rising and Crackdown. So for both of us, this isn’t new territory. Personally, I’ve always loved retro side-scrollers, so collaborating with Sam [Beddoes] at FreakZone from the ground up has been an absolute blast.
What do you like about the Kickstarter platform?
Kickstarter connects creators directly with fans. It’s a collaborative platform where backers become part of the journey. There’s a real sense of community, and it gives creators the freedom to explore ideas that might not happen through traditional channels.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Bit Bot Media is currently raising funds for Deathgasm 1.5: Director’s Cut and a Deathgasm video game. Click here for more information on the Kickstarter campaign.
