Thursday, April 28, 2011
I am headed to Texas Frightmare Weekend!!!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
DVD Review: BONNIE AND CLYDE VS. DRACULA (2008)
Directed by: Timothy Friend
Distributed by: Indican Pictures
I just watched the film BONNIE AND CLYDE VS DRACULA. I loved this movie from the moment I heard that title. It sounds so ridiculous that it just had to be great...right? And that DVD cover looks super cool too. I was super excited to finally watch this. So did it live up to my expectations? Before I answer that, here is the basic plot from the film's official website for those that aren't familiar with the film:
Bonnie and Clyde vs. Dracula combines the rough and tumble world of 1930's era gangster movies with the violent gothic atmosphere of a classic horror film. When a robbery goes bad and one of their companions is shot, Bonnie and Clyde are forced to seek help at a nearby mansion, home to the twisted Dr. Loveless and his imprisioned sister, Annabel. But Loveless has a secret. Deep in his cellar, the recently revived Dracula awaits...
So...did the film live up to my expectations? Well....unfortunately no. But maybe I had hyped it up too much in my head...who knows. While the film didn't live up to what I expected, that is not to say it wasn't a good film. It did have some very good things going for it...most notably the great acting. Tiffany Shepis as Bonnie and Trent Haaga as Clyde were a great on screen due and seemed to have some great chemistry. These two made the film in my opinion.
The film also contained some disturbing images...most notably the person or "thing" in the opening scene. The film contained some genuine scares at some points as well.
While the movie did have it's good points, it had its flaws as well. My major problem with this film are all the subplots and characters that are introduced. The whole plot with Dr. Loveless and his sister, Annabel, just seemed out of place to me. They could have been in a separate film all together. I mean, aren't we really here to see three main people...Bonnie, Clyde, and Dracula!
Another issue I had was that the film was very slow at times....the only thing that made up for this was the very ending when Bonnie and Clyde go on a Vampire shooting spree. That was a lot of fun to watch!
For a crime film, this was actually very good, with some good dialog and some really great shoot out scenes, but for us Horror and gore fans, the film just lacked a little bit in that department.
BONNIE AND CLYDE VS DRACULA is scheduled for release on DVD May 3rd. Check it out for yourself and see what you think!CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD (Pre-order)
CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website
Monday, April 25, 2011
This week's Horror related DVD releases: Tuesday, April 26th, 2011
Here are the Horror related DVD's coming out tomorrow, 4/26/11:
(Click a title to see a trailer for that film)
* DEMENTIA 13 [DVD & Blu-ray combo pack]
* DINOSHARK [DVD & Blu-ray]
* THE DORM THAT DRIPPED BLOOD [DVD & Blu-ray combo pack]
* GAME OVER* DINOSHARK [DVD & Blu-ray]
* THE DORM THAT DRIPPED BLOOD [DVD & Blu-ray combo pack]
* HELLRAISER III: HELL ON EARTH
Sunday, April 24, 2011
DVD Review: BLOOD JUNKIE (2010)
Distributed by: CAV Distribution and Troma Entertainment
I recently watched one of the latest films picked up for distribution by the infamous Troma Entertainment. It's called BLOOD JUNKIE, and it is well....just ok. Before I go any further, here is the plot synopsis from the film's official website:
Laura is supposed to babysit her little brother all weekend, but plans change when two studly high school graduates invited her and her best friend on a weekend adventure. Dragging her brother along, the five of them head to the woods for a killer camping trip. But the party of their lives is about to get cut short.
Blood Junkie is a 1980s-style horror comedy about a group of kids who discover a mysterious abandoned building where bad things happen. Shot in Wisconsin for $7000, Blood Junkie is a refreshing new vision in DIY independent filmmaking from first time feature filmmaker Drew Rosas. Bursting at the seams with bad ‘80s fashion, power synth anthems, and character clichés, Blood Junkie both embraces and pokes fun at the ‘80s horror film genre.
The film is not bad....but it's just not really good either. The film is supposed to be a flashback to the great slasher films of the 80's, and in terms of making the film look like it is from the 80's, it is a home run. In fact, I was confused at first as whether or not the film was "lost" film actually made in the 80's that Troma ran across and picked up the rights to distribute. But the film was made in 2010 for sure, thy filmmakers just did everything right to make it look old (well....almost, check out the convenience store for clues that the film was made in present day). The music is great, straight from the 80's with overly synthesized sounds and the hair and dress donned by the actors was spot on. I forgot how big eyeglasses were back in the 80's! Ha! And if you were never around to witness stone washed jeans, then this film will be a visual time capsule that you can experience. Also, if you were a male in the 80's, it was apparently a rule that you had to wear a jean jacket.
Well, aside from the awesome trip down memory lane, the film provided little more. Other than the opening title sequence, we do not see the killer in this film until 45 minutes in. That is far too long in my opinion. I understand the need to set up the main characters that will eventually be killed off...so we will get to know them and care about them, but by the time the killer got down to business, I was sick and tired of the characters and didn't care what happened to them at that point!
This is director Drew Rosas' directorial debut (for a feature length film), so lets hope he learns from this film and improves upon his next one. The film does show potential. I look forward to seeing what Rosas does next, hopefully he can keep the elements that worked and fix the ones that didn't.
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
Saturday, April 23, 2011
FANGORIA Magazine comes to the iPhone and iPad!
FANGORIA Magazine launched it's own iPhone/iPad app yesterday! This is pretty cool for sure, esp. for you iPad users. Here is yesterday's official statement from Fangoria.com:
Today sees the launch of our official FANGORIA App, enabling you to keep up with the latest issues of Fango on your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch! Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch and iPad with iOS 4.2 or later, the FANGORIA app is downloadable for no cost, gives you a free preview of our latest issue and the option to purchase it in full for $3.99, with subsequent future and back issues naturally headed for download as well!
With the app, you will get a free sneak preview of each new magazine, which consists of the firs few pages (you can see the first 9 pages of the current issue). That doesn't sound like much, but you do get to see the "contents" page, so you can see what all the new issue has inside. If you want to purchase the full issue, you can do that right from inside the app for only $3.99 an issue. A bargain compared to the normal $8.99 cover price!
Download today by clicking HERE, or just visit the app store from your device and search "Fangoria".
Friday, April 22, 2011
DVD Review: SCARLET FRY'S JUNKFOOD HORRORFEST (2007)
Directe by: Brian Crow and Scarlet Fry
Distributed by: Chemical Burn Entertainment
A few nights ago I watched the Horror anthology, SCARLET FRY'S JUNKFOOD HORRORFEST. This is another fun feature from the creator of last years NIGHTMARE ALLEY. While both films are fun, I think I actually enjoyed this film more than NIGHTMARE ALLEY, and I really enjoyed that one (see review here)! JUNKFOOD HORRORFEST is an anthology of 6 Horror stories. Here is the plot synopsis from the Chemical Burn website:
Scarlet Fry takes you on the thrill of your life with: Blood Thirsty Cannibals, Satanic Zombies, Demented Nurses, Junkie Serial Killers, Freaky Perverts and More! This Blood Drenched Deluxe Horrorfest isn’t for the weak at heart. A drug dealer has made his last deal after he decides to hand a junkie serial killer (Calico Cooper) some bad junk. This junk is, in fact, a video tape entitled "Junkfood Horrorfest." This horror anthology, hosted by Scarlet Fry, features six twisted tales that kick off when the junkie and her new found friend decide to watch the tape. Little does her friend know how much trouble he’s in for. Get ready for a blood drenched, deluxe horrorfest that isn’t for the weak at heart. Twisted tales that will turn your stomach and send you crying for Mommy!
After seeing NIGHTMARE ALLEY, I pretty much knew what to expect going into this film. It is a low budget, independent film and it does show. But...what the film lacks in budget and technical specs, it makes up for in the most important aspect of a film in my opinion, and that is entertainment value and sheer f-u-n!
The 6 stories all vary in sub genre and while most all the stories are entertaining, a few do stick out to me as being better than the others. My favorites include "Bloodthirsty Butcher", about a man who has a new girl in the neighborhood over for dinner...in the literal sense! This story had some great gore, and reminded me of the early blood trilogy films of H. G. Lewis. "Wasted Life" is a story about a man who commits suicide in the bathtub by slitting his wrist. There really isn't much of a plot to this one, but the makeup effects here are eerily realistic looking. As an aspiring filmmaker myself (with a definite interest in make up effects), I can appreciate this story for the effects alone. Another great story was "Love Is Blind" a story about a girl who makes sure her boyfriend's mouth stays shut for good in a very unique way!
The DVD also has some great special features, including Director Scarlet Fry's first horror anthology, HORRORAMA and a presentation of the original classic, CARNIVAL OF SOULS. You literally get 3 movies with the purchase of this one DVD! I highly recommend this to those fans of Horror who don't mind low budget, independent films. I had a lot of fun with this one, and I hope you will too!
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Movie review: INSIDIOUS (2011)
The writer-director team behind 'Saw' and the filmmakers of 'Paranormal Activity' redefine the haunted house genre in 'Insidious.' This horror film is the terrifying story of a family who shortly after moving discover that dark spirits have possessed their home and that their son has inexplicably fallen into a coma. Trying to escape the haunting and save their son, they move again only to discover that it was not their house that was haunted.
I didn't know what to expect going into this film. I had seen one trailer on TV, but that was it. I didn't read any reviews and wasn't sure what anyone thought of this film. No one I had talked to had seen it. I went in expecting a fun, mediocre horror film at best. What I got was a punch to the gut with pure terror. This was one of the scariest films I have seen in a loooong time. In fact, there were at least 3 places where I physically jumped with fright! That is something I usually make fun of my wife for doing! I am pretty desensitized to horror films, and can usually always spot an approaching "jump scare". This film caught me off guard and made me jump like a girl. Well done Mr. Wan!
I am going to cut this review short. We are experiencing major thunderstorms here and I am about to unplug the computer. Take my word on this one...you will not be disappointed. INSIDIOUS reminded me of a cross between a Dario Argento film and Sam Rami's DRAG ME TO HELL. This film also helped me to swear off my claim that "you can not have a good horror film and make it PG-13". I used to always think that in order to be a real horror film, it had to be rated R, and I would steer clear of any PG-13 offerings. After 2009's DRAG ME TO HELL and now INSIDIOUS, I am sold that you can have a great, terrifying film and have it be rated PG-13.
Director James Wan is the future of Horror in my opinion. Go witness the great spectacle that is INSIDIOUS soon! It is playing in theaters now.
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
DVD Review: THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT (2010)
-------------Review by contributing writer Scott Baker------------------
THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT
Directed by: James Baack
Distributed by: Cheezy Flicks
THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT is one of those movies that defies all logical convention: it is a two-hour-and-forty-five minute travesty that somehow found distribution. And although the film sucks almost three hours of your life away, my review in turn will be much shorter.
This movie officially replaces my Worst Movie of 2011 selection (see Bikini Vampire Babes review here). Not only does this movie suck, it sucks for ALMOST THREE HOURS. Wow. I didn't know something could piss me off that long but THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT proves that it can.
The subject matter alone is something that will not interest most people. I've seen several Bigfoot movies and NONE of them have been able to hold my attention. I mean, if you want to make a movie about something cryptozological, then pick a creature that no one has done a movie on before. Or hell, even make one up. And if you absolutely must make one on Bigfoot, at least try to make it interesting.
Aside from the ho-hum subject matter, the title is extremely inappropriate, not to mention misleading. There is no rage to speak of, let alone much blood. And the blood we do get to see is nothing more than water with pink dye in it...or something similar. I am more disappointed in these special effects than I was with Zombies by Design (see review here). I kept yelling at the screen, "Come on, guys...at least TRY to make it look real!"
The acting in this film is beyond horrible, with most of the cast fumbling through a poorly written script and then glancing at the camera every few minutes, I guess to make sure they were still in the shot or something. And when they're not bumbling their lines, they're improvising something lame that doesn't make much sense to the movie. Bad acting I can overlook, IF the story and/or action is good...THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT unfortunately fails at all three.
Now for the editing. Damn...I wish the guy(s) that cut the film would have stayed awake while working on it. I mean, falling asleep is the only excuse I can come up with for all of the errors that were allowed in to the final cut. There's one scene in particular that sticks out in my head: towards the beginning of the movie, Satantha and Lucy-fur are running to get into a stolen car...but both girls run to the driver's side. Satantha stops at the driver's side door, turns back to the camera, and then says with a giggle, "Oops...I went to the wrong side." The scene then cuts away. I rolled my eyes and tried to keep from kicking my MacBook across the room. Like I said: "Come on, guys...at least TRY!"
The main reason this film pisses me off so badly is because of its length. It would have been one thing if it were an hour and a half long and sucked...but almost three hours? I can't believe I wasted so much time on this piece of trash. I want that time back and so does my laptop.
To sum up, THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT is the worst movie I've seen so far this year, and will be tough to beat out for that title. I'm not sure if the producers were setting out to make a comedy or a true-to-form horror movie, but it failed miserably on both fronts. It's almost cliche to say, but THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT almost sent me into a rage-blackout. Don't bother to give this one a look.
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to visit the official website and watch the trailer
Directed by: James Baack
Distributed by: Cheezy Flicks
THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT is one of those movies that defies all logical convention: it is a two-hour-and-forty-five minute travesty that somehow found distribution. And although the film sucks almost three hours of your life away, my review in turn will be much shorter.
This movie officially replaces my Worst Movie of 2011 selection (see Bikini Vampire Babes review here). Not only does this movie suck, it sucks for ALMOST THREE HOURS. Wow. I didn't know something could piss me off that long but THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT proves that it can.
The subject matter alone is something that will not interest most people. I've seen several Bigfoot movies and NONE of them have been able to hold my attention. I mean, if you want to make a movie about something cryptozological, then pick a creature that no one has done a movie on before. Or hell, even make one up. And if you absolutely must make one on Bigfoot, at least try to make it interesting.
Aside from the ho-hum subject matter, the title is extremely inappropriate, not to mention misleading. There is no rage to speak of, let alone much blood. And the blood we do get to see is nothing more than water with pink dye in it...or something similar. I am more disappointed in these special effects than I was with Zombies by Design (see review here). I kept yelling at the screen, "Come on, guys...at least TRY to make it look real!"
The acting in this film is beyond horrible, with most of the cast fumbling through a poorly written script and then glancing at the camera every few minutes, I guess to make sure they were still in the shot or something. And when they're not bumbling their lines, they're improvising something lame that doesn't make much sense to the movie. Bad acting I can overlook, IF the story and/or action is good...THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT unfortunately fails at all three.
Now for the editing. Damn...I wish the guy(s) that cut the film would have stayed awake while working on it. I mean, falling asleep is the only excuse I can come up with for all of the errors that were allowed in to the final cut. There's one scene in particular that sticks out in my head: towards the beginning of the movie, Satantha and Lucy-fur are running to get into a stolen car...but both girls run to the driver's side. Satantha stops at the driver's side door, turns back to the camera, and then says with a giggle, "Oops...I went to the wrong side." The scene then cuts away. I rolled my eyes and tried to keep from kicking my MacBook across the room. Like I said: "Come on, guys...at least TRY!"
The main reason this film pisses me off so badly is because of its length. It would have been one thing if it were an hour and a half long and sucked...but almost three hours? I can't believe I wasted so much time on this piece of trash. I want that time back and so does my laptop.
To sum up, THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT is the worst movie I've seen so far this year, and will be tough to beat out for that title. I'm not sure if the producers were setting out to make a comedy or a true-to-form horror movie, but it failed miserably on both fronts. It's almost cliche to say, but THE BLOODY RAGE OF BIGFOOT almost sent me into a rage-blackout. Don't bother to give this one a look.
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to visit the official website and watch the trailer
Monday, April 18, 2011
This week's Horror related DVD releases: Tuesday, April 19th, 2011
Here are the Horror related DVD's coming out tomorrow, 4/19:
(click a title to see the trailer for that film)
* HYENAS
You zombie fans might want to check out the trailer for STRIPPERLAND...looks like that one could be a lot of fun!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Here's a great Horror novel for all you Kindle e-book readers out there!
A popular monster from the Philippines, known as an aswang, terrorizes the island of Oahu. The Filipino vampire leaves its legs behind and flies around rooftops, searching for children to steal and eat. Trapped in the aswang's trailer home, it's up to one little girl to put a stop to the beast's reign of panic.
I don't know about you, but that sounds just crazy enough to be a very fun read!! You Kindle owners shouldn't pass this one up!!
CLICK HERE to purchase the e-book
CLICK HERE to visit the author's blog
CLICK HERE to visit the amazon page of the author to buy his other books
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Congratulations to the winner of the latest 4H giveaway!!
Congratulations to Jennifer!! She is the winner of our latest DVD giveaway!! Jennifer has won herself a copy of the horror anthology, NIGHTMARE ALLEY, on DVD! The DVD is also autographed by a couple of the cast / crew! Congrats Jennifer!! Don't worry if you didn't win, you can still purchase a copy for yourself by clicking the link below!
CLICK HERE to see my original review of the film
CLICK HERE to purchase a copy of NIGHTMARE ALLEY on DVD
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Comic book spotlight: BLOKES TOMB OF HORROR #666
The fine folks at Virus Comix are back, and this time they have unleashed their latest comic, BLOKE'S TOMB OF HORROR #666! Now while I wish their were actually 665 previous issues, this is actually issue #6, and just like all the issues before it, this issues compiles a collection of stories from different writers and artists. This is a must have for fans of Horror comics. Issue #666 brings you 7 tales of pure Horror, including: FAMILY MATTERS - A couple's car breaks down and they are forced to spend the night at the nearest house. The husband wakes up the next morning to find his wife mixing, but breakfast is on the table!
DR. BANG AND THE NAUGHTY NURSE - Dr. Bang, also known as "the head hunter from hell" looses his head when he matches wits against the fearless Nurse Hatchet!
HARLEY HAVOC-UNDER THE DUST - An alien survivor from the Roswell UFO crash is rescued from a secret government facility, but this rescuer might have a personal motive for the rescue....DR. BANG AND THE NAUGHTY NURSE - Dr. Bang, also known as "the head hunter from hell" looses his head when he matches wits against the fearless Nurse Hatchet!
THE SCREAMING STATUES - An art collector discovers that there is a reason that a certain sculptor's statues seem so lifelike.
WHO IS THE REAL VERMIN? - A tale about a sadistic exterminator who loves his job a little too much. His latest job could be his last.
ZOMBIE DECADENCE - a group of zombie hunters hunt and trap zombies to sell on the black market...and you won't believe what the people that buy them plan on using them for!
DEJA GRUE - Victoria's nightmare was just that, a dream. But tonight, dreams become reality!
Once again Virus Comix has put out a great read for us fans of Horror comics. This latest issue comes in 6 collectible covers!
Click on the covers below to purchase the comics!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
There are only 2 days left to enter my latest DVD giveaway!!
What? You haven't entered yet? Why not? Here is your chance to win the fun low budget indie horror anthology, NIGHTMARE ALLEY! You will get a signed copy of the DVD, signed by cast/crew members!! Just visit the original contest post and enter a comment to win! Check out the rules for full details. The contest ends on April 15th!
Monday, April 11, 2011
This week's Horror related DVD releases: Tuesday, April 12th, 2011
Here are this week's Horror related DVDs coming out tomorrow, 4/12:
(click on a title to see a trailer for that film)
* MASK MAKER
Sunday, April 10, 2011
DVD Review: THE DEFILED (2010)
-------------Review by contributing writer Scott Baker------------------
THE DEFILED
Written and Directed by: Julian Grant
Distributed by: Chemical Burn Entertainment
It is so refreshing to run across a horror movie that brings something new to the genre. THE DEFILED
caught me by surprise on many levels and never once did it disappoint. What's more, the film brings a new concept into the zombie genre, which is one of my favorite sub-categories of film. What more can you ask for? If you're not familiar with The Defiled, here is the plot from the film's official website:
In a post apocalyptic world, science and technology have backfired leaving unfathomable destruction and a permanently diseased planet in its wake. A virus is mutating the human race turning innocent survivors into mindless cannibals. In a savage future world devoid of hope, a man infected with the deadly viral disease must cope with the burden of a new born son, ensuring his survival. Though he is infected, he does not allow his growing desire for human flesh to overcome his responsibility to the newborn. Along the road, traveling from town to town, he saves an unaffected woman from a certain death by facing down her perpetrators. Ultimately she joins him on his odyssey, a journey through hell on earth in search of a safe haven in which they can perhaps start a life together, both becoming committed to doing whatever it takes to make sure the child survives.
As I mentioned, this film never let me down. Although the initial premise might sound a tad familiar, this is NOT something you've seen before...I can almost guarantee it. But not just because of the story; the whole film is an excellent testament to what you can accomplish with willpower and a little bit of talent.
First and foremost, the cinematography in this film is brilliant. For being a low budget production, I am amazed at how well this film is shot. I love a moving camera and THE DEFILED does not disappoint. There are many panning shots as well as quite a bit of crane and dolly work as well. This constant movement really helped to immerse me in the film.
In addition, the acting is stellar as well...even though there is no dialogue in the film. Brian Shaw does an amazing job as the lead character, the zombie that is trying to protect it's newborn son, as does Kathleen Lawlor, the human that eventually takes up with Shaw's character. Both actors convey every emotion with superb clarity, without saying a thing. This is a true testament to the talent levels of these individuals. I would imagine there are several A-listers in Hollywood that would not have done as good of a job in these roles.
The uniqueness of THE DEFILED's plot is a major selling-point for me. I can honestly say that I've never even considered something like zombie sex or child-birth before, but this film hits on both points. And it kinda makes sense, if you think about it. I mean, zombies are basically reanimated humans, right? And if you take a human being down to its primal level, you are left with animalistic tendencies. So why not things like sex and child-birth? It might sound implausible now, but think about it for a bit and you might be surprised.
I even enjoy the black-and-white aspect of the film as well. I think it works very well to help set a dark tone and even add to the sense of overhanging menace. Heck, even the gore looked good in black-and-white, partially because of the vivid sound effects that accompany it.
I give THE DEFILED four stars out of four. It looks great visually and it entertains immensely. But it goes past that as well. It makes you think, makes you question everything about the zombie genre that we've seen so far. And it definitely leaves you with a specific emotion at the end (no spoilers here, folks). Check this one out for sure.
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website
Written and Directed by: Julian Grant
Distributed by: Chemical Burn Entertainment
It is so refreshing to run across a horror movie that brings something new to the genre. THE DEFILED
caught me by surprise on many levels and never once did it disappoint. What's more, the film brings a new concept into the zombie genre, which is one of my favorite sub-categories of film. What more can you ask for? If you're not familiar with The Defiled, here is the plot from the film's official website:
In a post apocalyptic world, science and technology have backfired leaving unfathomable destruction and a permanently diseased planet in its wake. A virus is mutating the human race turning innocent survivors into mindless cannibals. In a savage future world devoid of hope, a man infected with the deadly viral disease must cope with the burden of a new born son, ensuring his survival. Though he is infected, he does not allow his growing desire for human flesh to overcome his responsibility to the newborn. Along the road, traveling from town to town, he saves an unaffected woman from a certain death by facing down her perpetrators. Ultimately she joins him on his odyssey, a journey through hell on earth in search of a safe haven in which they can perhaps start a life together, both becoming committed to doing whatever it takes to make sure the child survives.
As I mentioned, this film never let me down. Although the initial premise might sound a tad familiar, this is NOT something you've seen before...I can almost guarantee it. But not just because of the story; the whole film is an excellent testament to what you can accomplish with willpower and a little bit of talent.
First and foremost, the cinematography in this film is brilliant. For being a low budget production, I am amazed at how well this film is shot. I love a moving camera and THE DEFILED does not disappoint. There are many panning shots as well as quite a bit of crane and dolly work as well. This constant movement really helped to immerse me in the film.
In addition, the acting is stellar as well...even though there is no dialogue in the film. Brian Shaw does an amazing job as the lead character, the zombie that is trying to protect it's newborn son, as does Kathleen Lawlor, the human that eventually takes up with Shaw's character. Both actors convey every emotion with superb clarity, without saying a thing. This is a true testament to the talent levels of these individuals. I would imagine there are several A-listers in Hollywood that would not have done as good of a job in these roles.
The uniqueness of THE DEFILED's plot is a major selling-point for me. I can honestly say that I've never even considered something like zombie sex or child-birth before, but this film hits on both points. And it kinda makes sense, if you think about it. I mean, zombies are basically reanimated humans, right? And if you take a human being down to its primal level, you are left with animalistic tendencies. So why not things like sex and child-birth? It might sound implausible now, but think about it for a bit and you might be surprised.
I even enjoy the black-and-white aspect of the film as well. I think it works very well to help set a dark tone and even add to the sense of overhanging menace. Heck, even the gore looked good in black-and-white, partially because of the vivid sound effects that accompany it.
I give THE DEFILED four stars out of four. It looks great visually and it entertains immensely. But it goes past that as well. It makes you think, makes you question everything about the zombie genre that we've seen so far. And it definitely leaves you with a specific emotion at the end (no spoilers here, folks). Check this one out for sure.
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Check out the indie zombie film, HIGHWAY 91
I was just browsing the latest news over at DreadCentral.com and found this cool teaser trailer for the indie zombie flick, HIGHWAY 91. Here is the breif synopsis:Highway 91 follows a small group of survivors in a world where the dead have come back to life. They’ve been through it all and seen it all, but after they hear of an outpost that is supposedly zombie free, they decide to give it a chance. All they have to do is get there alive, but on the way they have to face serial killers, religious fanatics, and each other!
This looks like a fun film! I realize this might not be for everybody, as it does look VERY low budget, but some people (like myself) really enjoy low budget films like this. As an indie low budget (or even NO budget) filmmaker myself, it is inspiring to see what people can do with little budget. The effects in this actually look really good. My only complaint would be the amount of CGI that was used, although I realize that CGI is a good way to get some effects that you normally couldn't get on a restricted budget. Either way it looks like we are in for a fun ride with HIGHWAY 91!!
CLICK HERE to watch the teaser trailer
Friday, April 8, 2011
Check out Full Moon Entertainment's latest feature, EVIL BONG 3D!
4/16 - Madcap Theaters--Tempe, AZ
4/20 - Inwood Theater--Dallas, TX
4/22 - Plaza Theater--Atlanta, GA
4/23 - Orpheum Theater--Madison, WI
4/30 - Hollywood Theater--Portland, OR
5/14 - The Forum Arts Center--New Jersey
Along with the film screening there will be an opening act by Charles Band's Full Moon Horror Road Show! Also, not only is the film in 3D, but it is also being shown in awesome Sniff-O-Rama!! You will get a scratch and sniff card and the movie will tell you when to scratch the appropriate smell!!
Also, if that weren't enough, there will be special celeb's on hand at these screenings, including stars such as Sig Haig, Jeffrey Combs, Stuart Gordan, and more! CLICK HERE to see the list of which celebrities will be at each screening.
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website
CLICK HERE to purchase advance tickets for these screenings
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Check out the awesome FREDDY IN SPACE blog and the WIN FREE HORROR SHIT Facebook page!
CLICK HERE to visit the WIN FREE HORROR SHIT Facebook page
CLICK HERE to visit the FREDDY IN SPACE Horror blog
CLICK HERE to visit the FREDDY IN SPACE Facebook Shop
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Check out the new zombie children movie, PERROS MUERTOS, a.k.a. DEAD DOGS
Spanish director Koldo Serra's newest film is a zombie film. But it is not just any zombie film...it is about zombie children! The title is PERROS MUERTOS, and here is the basic plot courtesy of imdb.com:After pulling a bank job in Barcelona, petty criminal Cocacolo and his two mates are fleeing south with their bloody loot. The fugitives reach the Almeria dessert. Not far away, a family of four on their way to the beach are forced to camp for the night after bumping into a strange field growing in the middle of the dessert. The destiny of the motley group is inevitably linked when they find that all the children from the area are suffering from a violent viral infection. They have devoured their parents and now they want more flesh.
This trailer has me very intrigued. It reminds me of a cross between, THE CHILDREN (1980), CHILDREN OF THE CORN, and DESPERADO! You will see what I mean when you watch the trailer.
CLICK HERE to watch the teaser trailer
Monday, April 4, 2011
This week's Horror related DVD releases: Tuesday, April 5th, 2011
Here is the list of this week's horror related DVD's coming out tomorrow, Tuesday, 4/5:
(click on a title to see a trailer for that film)
* BEHEMOTH
* DEADRISE
* HORRID
* INSIGHT OF EVIL
* ZOMBIE DOOMSDAY
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Check out Den Of Geek's List of Top 10 Goo-filled films!!
CLICK HERE to visit the Den of Geek's Top 10 Goo-filled Movie list!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
DVD Review: BLUR (2007)
-------------Review by contributing writer Scott Baker------------------
Directed by Nick Briscoe
Distributed by: Anthem Pictures
I have to warn you up front: BLUR is not a horror movie. It's more like a psychological thriller with a couple of jumps and scares added in. Granted, the DVD case cover sure makes it look like horror, with the demonic, screaming face and all. But dig into the story, and you'll find the reason for the face.
If you're not familiar with BLUR, here is the synopsis courtesy of Anthem Pictures:
One of the first things that drew me in to BLUR is the haunting soundtrack. The music from this film definitely belongs in a horror movie. It's enchanting and eerie at the same time, like a midnight-hour seance done in the calming surroundings of your bedroom. I'm a big fan of certain movie soundtracks (I'm looking at you, Danny Elfman!) and would definitely pick this one up on CD, given the opportunity.
The next aspect of the film that really caught my attention was the way it was shot. The camera work in this film is superb, with many moving-camera shots and spanning, slow pans. Likewise, the location for the film (basically set entirely on a single piece of property) is beautiful, set mainly in an older, brick-and-stone estate. I'm not sure where the site is, but I'd love to know if it's for sale.
As for the plot, BLUR is a finely-crafted thriller with a very nice twist towards the end. I can honestly say I sure didn't see anything like it coming. The pacing of the plot is perfect and takes the audience on a nice trip, right up to the climax, which leaves no questions unanswered. My hats off to the script-writer(s) for creating such a vivid story out of almost nothing.
My sole complaint about BLUR is that it doesn't have any Special Features per se, except for some stills and the 'actual' video taken from a video camera used within the film. I was really hoping for some behind the scenes footage at least, especially if it were to contain the location of the filming set (ahem). What can I say? It's an awesome house and an awesome estate!
All in all, BLUR is a definite win for me, although (to reiterate) it's certainly not horror. But do yourself a favor and shift gears; give BLUR a chance, watch it through to the credits, and enjoy the ride. I certainly think you'll be glad you did. I know I am.
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
Friday, April 1, 2011
Enter to win my latest DVD giveaway!!
That's right, while my last contest just ended this past week, I think it is time to jump right in to the next one! Walter Ruether, the director of the Horror anthology film, NIGHTMARE ALLEY, has been generous enough to offer one of my blog readers another AUTOGRAPHED NIGHTMARE ALLEY DVD!!! This DVD does not just include one autograph, which would be cool enough, but this DVD contains the signatures of 3 of the cast/crew involved in this film!
Here are the autographs contained on the DVD cover:
Walter Ruether -Director
Laurence Holloway -Director
Scarlet Fry -Host
Look at the pic above and you will see this awesome prize that you could win!!
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
TO ENTER THE CONTEST, PLEASE FOLLOW THESE STEPS
1. If you are not already, become a FOLLOWER of this blog! (Click the FOLLOW button under the "Followers" section of the blog on the right hand side).
2. Leave a comment on this post with your NAME and EMAIL ADDRESS so I can contact you for your shipping info if you are the winner (if valid email address is not given, I will post the winners name on the site and winner will have one week to contact me with their shipping info. If prize is not claimed within one week, prize will be forfeited).
3. Only one comment per person. Multiple comments will result in removal of all your comments therefore removing your chances of winning!
5. Contest winner will be chosen by random.org and must agree to let me post their name in a separate post stating who won the prize.
6. Due to shipping costs, contest is open to U.S. Residents only. Thank you for your understanding.
GOOD LUCK!!