Check out the great claymation short film, CHINSAW MAID (2007)!

  










If you are a zombie fan, you will definitely want to check out this short film called CHAINSAW MAID.  It is a simple tale of a family who's home is under attack from the undead, but the trusty maid is there to put an end to those pesky zombies!   The film is done in claymation and the effects are very good with some awesome gore! 

CHAINSAW MAID was directed by Takena Nagao.  Check out this great film!

CLICK HERE to watch the short film

It's Giveaway time!! Win a FREE 6 DVD prize pack!

I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!!!  Sorry I haven't posted in a while...I took a little longer break than I expected, but it seems this time of year is just so busy!  I have had something going on almost every night.  I will try to get back to my daily postings starting today!
 
A while back I mentioned that as soon as I got 400 blog followers, I would post my next giveaway.  Well, over the last week I have hit 401 followers, so I am making good on my promise..and what better time that right after Christmas!  Just when you thought getting presents was over, here is your chance to get one more awesome gift! 
 

 

The great folks over at Indican Pictures have supplied me with a DVD prize pack consisting of 6 DVD's!  One lucky winner will receive the following films on DVD:  BLACK WINE, UNSPEAKABLE, LITTLE ERIN MERRYWEATHER, A LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS, GORY GORY HALLELUJAH, and DEAD IN THE WATER!  Entering is as easy as leaving a comment below!  The contest will run until January 16th.  Read the instructions below for details on how to enter.  Thanks!!
 
TO ENTER THE CONTEST, FOLLOW THESE STEPS:

1. If you are not already, become a FOLLOWER of this blog! (Click the JOIN THIS SITE button under the "Followers" section of the blog on the right hand side). Ok, I'm feeling nice, you don't HAVE to become a follower of this blog to win, but I sure would appreciate it!  
     

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). For an extra entry, share the link to the contest on your facebook, twitter, myspace, google+, etc. Put in the comment where you shared the link and post a link to it if possible.

3. Only one comment per person. Multiple comments will result in removal of all your comments therefore removing all your chances of winning!

4. Contest is scheduled to end on Wednesday, January 16th, 2013. Comments must be left by the end of the day on 1/16  in order to count towards the contest.

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!!!
     
 

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!

  I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!!  I'll be taking a break from blog posts over the next few nights to celebrate the holidays!    I hope you all have a great Christmas and check back in a couple of days for new blog posts!!

Blu-ray Review: SILENT NIGHT (2012)

SILENT NIGHT
Directed by Steven C. Miller
Distributed by: Anchor Bay Entertainment

 SILENT NIGHT DEADLY NIGHT is one of my all time favorite Christmas themed horror films, so needless to say I was very excited when I heard about this remake, simply titled SILENT NIGHT.  For those not familiar with the film, here is the plot courtesy of the Anchor Bay website:

In 1984, the slasher classic Silent Night, Deadly Night stunned audiences, was banned across America, and remains the most notorious Christmas movie in history. Now, Santa is back, and he’s got a brand new bag of tricks. As their small Midwestern town prepares for its annual Christmas Eve parade, Sheriff (Malcolm McDowell of Halloween) and his deputy (Jaime King of My Bloody Valentine 3-D and “Hart Of Dixie”) discover that a maniac in a Santa suit is murdering those he judges as “naughty.” Their sins? Porn, adultery, greed... And he will make sure they rest in heavenly pieces. Donal Logue (Shark Night 3D), Ellen Wong (Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World), Lisa Marie (The Lords of Salem), and Brendan Fehr (“CSI: Miami”) co-star in this brutal and darkly humorous tale of Christmas gone bad.
 
 This is a great remake.  The film really lives up to it's name and actually improves on the original in a few areas.   I still probably like the original better overall, but this is still a great addition to the holiday themed horror flicks.  The acting in the film was great, including a great performance from genre vet Malcolm McDowell and a hilarious performance from Donal Logue as Santa Jim, the worlds worst Santa Clause.  Santa Jim stole each scene he was in and had some of the film's laugh-out-loud moments.

Another great thing about this film was the great gore and kill scenes, my favorite being a well done naked chick in the wood chipper scene.  It just doesn't get much better than that! Ha!  All the effects were practical effects, with little or no CG, which is always a good thing.  The effects and makeup crew did a great job on this one.  

I highly recommend SILENT NIGHT, this is one of my new holiday favorites for sure! 

SILENT NIGHT is available now on DVD and Blu-ray/DVD combo pack and contains the following special features:

*  Silent Night:   Behind The Scenes
*  Deleted Scenes


CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Blu-ray/DVD combo pack
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer

Check out the red band trailer for the film, KILLER JOE

  
KILLER JOE stars Matthew McConaughey as a hit man for hire in this new film from legendary director William Friedkin.   Check out the red band trailer by clicking the link below.  KILLER JOE is available now on DVD and Blu-ray! 

CLICK HERE to watch the red band trailer  (**Warning**- Contains Nudity)

DVD Review: BLOODY CHRISTMAS (2012)

 
BLOODY CHRISTMAS
Written & Directed by Michael Shershenovich
Distributed by MVD Visual

With the holidays coming up, I thought it would be fun to review some Christmas themed horror films over the next few days.  My first Christmas themed horror film for review is BLOODY CHRISTMAS.   Here is the plot of the film courtesy of the MVD website:

In a small town police are in search for a child murderer. Meanwhile Rich Tague, a has been 80's action movie star, is attempting to figure out the meaning of Christmas as he plays Santa on a Public Access TV show. He fantasizes about murdering the people that do him wrong. Will he have the strength to not be on his own naughty list?

I'm gonna keep my review on this one short because honestly, it just isn't worth my time.  I hate to say that about any film, as I know how much work goes into them, but this film was just plain bad.  The plot doesn't really make sense just from reading it above, and the movie is just the same.  It is choppy and the plot is hard to find.  In fact, at times I found myself so bored I fast-forwarded quite a bit of the film toward the end, something I rarely do. The film and sound quality are awful, which is normal for a low budget film and can be overlooked if the film keeps you entertained, but this film did not entertain me at all.

Unfortunately, I would not recommend this film to anyone.  It is bad.  In fact, it's not just bad, its HO HO HO-RRIBLE!!


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD

Blu-ray Review: EXCISION (2012)

 
EXCISION
Written & Directed by Richard Bates Jr.
Distributed by Anchor Bay Entertainment

Wow.  That is all I can say about this film.  I knew nothing of EXCISION upon it's arrival in my mailbox.  I had heard nothing about it or seen any mentions of it anywhere.  I am not sure how or why this movie is not causing more of an uproar on the Internet.  Maybe it is and I just haven't noticed it, but after watching this film, I would think this is one that people should be talking about.  In fact, this is a film that should be talked about for years to come.  While a lot of films come and go, this one will leave a lasting impression for sure.  For those unfamiliar with this film, here is the basic plot from the back of the Blu-ray:

In a performance critics are calling "ballsy" (FEARnet), "fearless" (The Film Emporium) and "exceedingly brilliant" (Quiet Earth), AnnaLynne McCord of "90210" stars as Pauline, an unattractive high school outcast who hates her uptight mother (Traci Lords), is caring towards her chronically-ill kid sister(Ariel Winter of "Modern Family") and wants to lose her virginity to her popular classmate (Jeremy Sumpter of Soul Surfer).  But most of all, Pauline loves her psychosexual fantasies about performing graphic surgery. And very soon, one extremely disturbed suburban teen is about to make all of her dreams come true.

The main thing that sticks out to me in this film is the  acting.  Every performance is top-notch and very believable.  There is a great mix of characters on display and each one is acted out to perfection.
The film is shot very well also, with some great cinematography and some very creepy, visual dream sequences.  

The film drew me in from the very beginning and never let go.  This is a film I did not want to be over when it was.   The ending came way to soon for me and the way it ended left much to be answered.  That is not a negative, though...that leaves more room for the viewer to think about the film long after the disc is removed from the player, and I guarantee this is one you will be thinking about long after it is over.

There is not much I can say about this film that will do it justice.  This is one you will just need to trust me on and watch for yourself.  If you have seen this film already, leave a comment and let me know your thoughts on the film. 

EXCISION is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Anchor Bay Entertainment.


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Blu-ray

This week's Horror related DVD/Blu-ray releases: Tuesday, December 18th, 2012

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays coming out 12/18:
(Click on a title to see a trailer for that film)

*  DEATH SHIP  [Blu-ray]
*  THE FROZEN

If you liked the SCARY MOVIE films, check out the the new film from Marlon Wayans, A HAUNTED HOUSE

 For fans of the SCARY MOVIE franchise, you will want to check out the new film called A HAUNTED HOUSE.   The films was written by, produced by, and stars Marlon Wayans.   While mainly a parody of the PARANORMAL ACTIVITY films, the film also parodies other horror films including THE DEVIL INSIDE.  While some is crude, childish humor  (the trailer opens with a fart joke), some scenes look pretty funny.   Check out the trailer and let me know what you think.

A HAUNTED HOUSE open in theaters January 11, 2013.  The film stars Marlon Wayans, David Koechner, Essence Atkins, Cedric the Entertainer, and Nick Swardson (in what looks to be the funniest character in the film).

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer

Horror App Spotlight: INTO THE DEAD

  Every now and then when I find a cool horror related app on my iPhone, I like to share it with the readers of my blog.  I know not everyone has an iPhone, but for those that do, I think I have found a new horror game worthy of you checking out.   The game is called INTO THE DEAD.   It is very simple game that consists of you running through a field that is filled with zombies, and seeing how far you can get.  It is seen through a first person perspective and is very addicting.  

My personal best is 2,804m, but I have just been playing it a few days now.  If any of you have played this already, let me know your personal best.  Or if you haven't played it yet, download it for free now from the iTunes store and see how far you can get! 
  
CLICK HERE to visit the official ITD website and watch some gameplay videos

Blu-ray Review: BEDEVILLED (2010)

BEDEVILLED
Directed by Chul-soo Jang
Distributed by: Well Go USA

A while back I posted the trailer for a film called BEDEVILLED.  The trailer looked amazing and I was really looking forward to this film.  Well, I finally got chance to see it and I have to say I was blown away.  The trailer did not do this movie justice.   For those not familiar with the film, here is the basic plot from the Well Go website:

Hae-won (Seong-won Ji) is a woman on the edge: a series of incidents at work earn her a forced “vacation,” but when she travels to a remote island from a childhood visit, at the urgent request of her friend Kim Bok-nam (Yeong-hie Seo), she has no idea what devils of the past are waiting.
Moo-do Island is an unpleasant place to visit, and you definitely don’t want to live there. Bok-nam is crumbling under a weight of violence, sexual menace, and fear – with no means of escaping her tormentors. The vengeful rage that waits inside her is growing, and her sanity shredding. If Hae-won can’t help her escape, she may have to take matters into her own hands, once and for all.

Let me say that this review will not do this film justice.  I honestly am not a good enough reviewer to fully explain how good this film is.   This is not a true horror movie.  It's more of a dark drama, but it does contain some elements of horror including some very realistic killing scenes.   The film is shot very well, with some beautiful cinematography.   The scenery is beautiful, as most of the film was shot on Geumodo Island, South Korea.  The Blu-ray picture is crystal clear.

The acting in this film is brilliant, as well.   The characters are believable and you really feel for the character of Bok-nam.  Bok-nam is badly mistreated by her husband and all the other women of the island.  It is no surprise that she snaps and does what she does.  I don't want to say too much as I don't want to give more away than needed, but she gets her revenge.   Now obviously killing someone is never ok, but this movie gives you mixed emotions as you see Bok-nam extract revenge on her abusive husband.    She was the victim for years, but now she is the tormentor and her husband is the victim, yet you can't help but feel bad for Bok-nam and understand what she did.  This film messes with your emotions and at one point, my jaw was actually sore as I realized I was really clenching my teeth during a very suspenseful scene.

I usually watch movies at night after I get the kids in bed.  I am usually pretty tired and very seldom due do I finish a movie in on night.  Usually I fall asleep and will finish it the next night.  That was not the case with BEDEVILLED.   I watched this film all the way through and never even thought about falling asleep.  The movie held my attention the entire 115 minute running time and I don't think I would be exaggerating when I say that this is probably one of my favorite foreign films of all time.  Definitely in my top 10.   Check this one out asap!

I can't say enough good things about this film.  BEDEVILLED is available now on DVD and Blu-ray.  Special features include a Behind the Scenes featurette and the trailer for the film.

 
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Blu-ray
 

This week's Horror related DVD/Blu-ray releases: Tuesday, December 11th, 2012

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays coming out 12/11:
(Click on a title to see a trailer for that film)

*  BARON BLOOD  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  BIGFOOT COUNTY
*  CHILLER:  THE COMPLETE TELEVISION SERIES
*  CREEP VAN
*  DARKEN
*  DEADLY DARES:  TRUTH OR DARE IV
*  DEATH VALLEY  [Blu-ray/DVD combo]
*  THE FOG RETURNS TO MURDER MANSION
*  GANGSTERS, GUNS, AND ZOMBIES
*  HEMO
*  HOUSE OF TERROR
*  THE ISLAND  [Blu-ray/DVD combo]
*  THE LIFE ZONE
*  MR. BRICKS
*  NIGHT CLAWS
*  OSOMBIE   [DVD &  Blu-ray]
*  SHADOWZONE
*  TOXIC AVENGER - JAPANESE CUT

Check out the trailer for the upcoming film, CREEP VAN!

I just ran across a press release for a new film coming to DVD this week called CREEP VAN!  The film looks like a great homage to the crazy films of the 80's.   Here is the basic plot of the film from the Inception Media Group website:

Life without a car is murder … and nobody knows that better than Campbell Jackson, a 20-something, out-of-work, out-of-options misfit. Forced to take a dead-end job at a Detroit car wash, Campbell spies a dilapidated ’70s van for sale and attempts to buy it. Little does he know, it’s the Creep Van, whose mysterious owner has been terrorizing locals—killing and torturing victims with a host of elaborate booby traps inside its rusted shell. For those unwilling to climb aboard, the Creep and his Van have no qualms about running folks down or smashing through walls. Forced to team up with a sleazy conman to hunt down and stop the mayhem – before he and his girlfriend become the next victims – Campbell finds himself in for one hell of a bloody ride!

Check out the trailer by clicking the link below.  This looks like it could be a lot of fun!
CREEP VAN is coming out this Tuesday, Dec. 11th on DVD.

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer for CREEP VAN

Book Review: DECK Z: THE TITANIC

 
DECK Z:  THE TITANIC
By Chris Pauls and Matt Solomon
Published by Chronicle Books

  I recently finished reading what may be the best zombie book I have ever read.  Know I know that is a huge statement, but I really don't ever remember truly enjoying a zombie book as much as I did this one.  The book called DECK Z:  THE TITANIC by Chris Pauls and Matt Solomon.  Here is the synopsis of the book from the Chronicle Books website:

Imagine being trapped aboard the doomed Titanic on an icy Atlantic. . . with the walking dead. This fast-paced thriller reimagines the historical events of the fateful Titanic voyage through the lens of zombie mayhem. Captain Edward Smith and his inner circle desperately try to contain a weaponized zombie virus smuggled on board with the 2,200 passengers sailing to New York. Faced with an exploding population of lumbering, flesh-hungry undead, Smith’s team is forced into bloody hand-to-hand combat down the narrow halls of the huge steamer. In its few short days at sea, the majestic Titanic turns into a Victorian bloodbath, steaming at top speed toward a cold, blue iceberg. A creepy, tense pageturner, Deck Z will thrill zombie fans and Titanic buffs alike.

  I am a big fan of the Titanic.  I love the history behind it and yes, I even loved the James Cameron film.  I also love zombies.  So to mesh these two subjects into one book was truly genius.  The book is easy to read and flows very nicely.  The action is fairly non-stop throughout the film, so there were no real slow parts like some books tend to have.   The book is very visual and allows you to picture everything that is happening.  I could see this book being turned into a film very easily, as reading it was like watching a zombie movie in my head!  In fact, the subject of zombies on a cruise ship is one I really can't believe hasn't been done yet.  As this book proves, it provides a very good backdrop for a zombie outbreak, as everyone is confined and there is nowhere to escape from it.

  The book was a perfect mixture of Titanic history and zombie mayhem.  It was fun to find out the reason the Titanic hit that iceberg that fateful night.  You will have to read it to find out for yourself!

  If you are a fan of zombie books, you will want to check this book out for sure.  As I stated above, I don't remember the last time I enjoyed a zombie book this much. I consider this book a must have.  This would be a great present to buy for that certain someone you  know that loves zombies!  The book is available now at bookstores or you can purchase directly from Chronicle Books by clicking the link below.


CLICK HERE to purchase the book

Get your GIRLS AND CORPSES 2013 CALENDAR today!!

  
Back by popular demand is the GIRLS AND CORPSES CALENDAR!  The 2013 Calendar promises to be the best one yet!  If you are not familiar with GIRLS AND CORPSES, it is a great horror genre magazine in the likes of Fangoria or other magazines, but it also parodies the mens magazines like Maxim and FHM, combining pics of gorgeous women hanging out with their favorite corpses!  Ok, sounds pretty deranged, and it probably is, but I swear I just read it for the articles!  HA! 
Well, the last couple of years the company has put out a calendar featuring some of the hottest women and rottiest (is that a word?) corpses around!

According to the website, Girls and Corpses made only 500 collectors copies of this calendar for 2013, so order soon because they will be snapped up quickly. The calendars are full color, on heavyweight paper with spiral binding on top and come body-bagged for freshness!

CLICK HERE to go to the G&C store to order the 2013 GIRLS AND CORPSES Calendar or any of the other great G&C products!

Vote for DOC OF THE DEAD for Indiewire's Project of the Month!

I recently received an email about an awesome new documentary that is currently in production called DOC OF THE DEAD.  As you know, I am a huge fan of zombies, so this sounds like a very cool production to me!   Here is a brief description of what the film is about from the film' s director, Alexandre O Philippe:

"Brought to the screen by the creators of the groundbreaking participatory doc THE PEOPLE vs. GEORGE LUCAS, and co-hosted by Geekscape’s Jonathan London and RedLetterMedia’s Mr. Plinkett, DOC OF THE DEAD (DoD) will delve deep into the myriad crevasses of zombie culture to deliver the first-ever in-depth look at a contemporary social pandemic of global proportions. Shot and edited in a cinematically edgy, high-octane style, DoD will host a rich and entertaining dialogue with zombie experts and celebrities, seek participation from indie filmmakers, and examine viral cultural trends to explore the possibility and ramifications of an actual zombie outbreak."-- Alexandre O Philippe

Currently, this film is up for Indiewire.com's Project of the Month award!   Head over to Indiewire now and vote for DOC OF THE DEAD for Project of the Month!!

CLICK HERE TO VOTE


Then, check out the trailer for the film and the film's official website and facebook page!

CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to follow DoD on Facebook

DVD Review: TAETER CITY (2012)

 
TAETER CITY
Written & Directed by Giulio De Santi
Production Company: Necrostorm Productions
  
 A while back I did a review of a crazy film called ADAM CHAPLIN, which was full of over-the-top gore  (you can read that review here).  Well, I never thought I would see another film filled with as much gore and disturbing images as that film had.  Well, leave it to the fine folks at Necrostorm to top that film with a new film that is drenched in gore!  TAETER CITY is the newest film from Necrostorm and is as bloody and violent as ADAM CHAPLIN, if not even more so. 

  The film shows a futuristic society where criminals are used as meat in the government (called "The Authority") run fast food burger chain, Taeter Burger.   That is pretty much all the plot there is.  That is really my only issue with this film...the plot and story line is pretty broad and basically we are left with just a movie with not much substance in terms of a story line.  But...honestly, that is not why most people want to watch this film.  Most of us are here for the blood and gore, and in that area, TAETER BURGER delivers in a huge way!  I would like to see what Necrostorm could do with a little more linear story line shot in a regular narrative.   But, again, this does not take away from the enjoyment of this film. 

  TAETER CITY is full of crazy images, some of which were cringe worthy, at least for this viewer anyway.  Also, while most of the gore is CG, there are some practical effects that I honestly have no clue how they were done.  One scene in particular involves a man cutting off his own fingers in a sink, and I swear the filmmakers must have found someone willing to actually cut off their fingers!!  Ok, so maybe not, but the effect was just that good.

  There are two versions of the DVD you can purchase, the Standard Edition and the Collector's Edition.  I highly recommend the Collector's Edition, as it has some exclusive extras that are really worth a watch including the short cartoon GASTRIC COMBAT, and a great cartoon series by the director of TAETER CITY called DHONDOLONE, where the character of the cartoon just keeps dying in the most bizarre ways!  Also, with the Collector's Edition DVD, you will receive a baseball hat with the TAETER CITY logo, some postcards/coupons from Taeter Burger, an Authority Biker ID card, and a TAETER CITY autographed poster personally signed by director Giulio De Santi!  Getting all the extra is well worth a few extra dollars in my opinion!    

 Necrostorm is an Italian company, but they ship world wide and the DVD's are region free, so they will play just fine in all our DVD players over here in the States! 

 If you are a fan of blood and gore  (which you probably are if you are reading this blog), then do yourself a favor and check out TAETER CITY asap!  It is a non-stop gore fest that you will not soon forget!

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the Collector's Edition DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Standard Edition DVD

This week's Horror related DVD/Blu-ray releases: Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays coming out 12/4:
(Click on a title to see a trailer for that film)

*  12/12/12  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  BLOOD BEAT
*  REEL EVIL
*  SILENT NIGHT  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  SILENT NIGHT DEADLY NIGHT 1 & 2 Double Feature
*  TALES FROM THE CRYPT PRESENTS:  RITUAL  [Blu-ray]
*  A VAMPIRE'S TALE
*  V H S  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  X GAME

Watch the gory Red Band trailer for the upcoming film, THE ABC'S OF DEATH

Wow, I knew this movie was probably going to be pretty cool, but this trailer makes it look like it could be the most fun we have had watching a horror film in a long time!!  The film is called THE ABC'S OF DEATH.  For those that aren't familiar with this film, 26 different horror directors have come together to each film a segment of this film using their assigned letter.  Here is the list of all the directors that participated in this film:

Bruno Forzani
Helene Cattet
Kaare Andrews
Angela Bettis
Adrian Bogliano
Jason Eisner
Ernesto Diaz Espinoza
Xavier Gens
Noboru Iguchi
Thomas Malling
Jorge Michel Grau
Anders Morgenthaler
Yoshihiro Nishimura
Jbanjong Pisanthanakun
Simon Rumley
Marcel Sarmiento
Jon Schnepp
Srdjan Spasojevic
Timo Tjahjanto
Andrew Traucki
Nacho Vigalondo
Jake West
Ti West
Ben Wheatley
Adam Wingard
Yudai Yamaguchi

This is a very cool project and from the looks of this trailer, should be a very fun film!  THE ABC'S OF DEATH is set for release in theaters on March 8, 2013.  Check out the trailer and let me know what you think:

CLICK HERE to watch the Red Band trailer 

Check out the trailer for JOHN DIES AT THE END

For those that haven't seen it yet, check out the trailer for the upcoming film called JOHN DIES AT THE END, the newest film from veteran horror writer/director Don Coscarelli  (Phantasm, Bubba Ho-Tep).   The film looks like lots of fun! Here is the basic plot of the the film from imdb.com:

A new street drug that sends its users across time and dimensions has one drawback: some people return as no longer human. Can two college dropouts save humankind from this silent, otherworldly invasion?

The film stars Chase Williamson, Rob Mayes, and Paul Giamatti.  Also, look for a special appearance by the great Angus Scrimm  (Tall Man from the Phantasm films). 

JOHN DIES AT THE END is set to hit theaters on January 25th, 2013.

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer

DVD Review: THE DEFINITIVE DOCUMENT OF THE DEAD (2012)

  
THE DEFINITIVE DOCUMENT OF THE DEAD
Directed by Roy Frumkes
Distributed by Synapse Films

If you have never seen the documentary, THE DOCUMENT OF THE DEAD, you need to check this film out asap!  Assuming you are a fan of George A. Romero's 1978 film, DAWN OF THE DEAD, that is.  Of course, I would hope anyone reading this blog is a fan of that great film. Here is the basic synopsis of the documentary from the Synapse Films website:

ROY FRUMKES’ CELEBRATION OF HORROR DIRECTOR GEORGE A. ROMERO GETS RE-EDITED, UPDATED AND RE-MASTERED! THE DEFINITIVE DOCUMENT OF THE DEAD IS AN ALL-NEW VERSION OF THE CLASSIC “MAKING OF” PROJECT BASED ON 1978’s DAWN OF THE DEAD!
George A. Romero, director of the original NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, is one of the horror genre’s most celebrated filmmakers. Roy Frumkes’ amazing 1978 documentary DOCUMENT OF THE DEAD was an intimate look at Romero’s creative process, with an outstanding collection of interviews, effects demonstrations (courtesy of make-up artist, Tom Savini) and behind-the-scenes footage from the classic horror film, DAWN OF THE DEAD.
This newly re-edited and re-mastered 2012 version of the award-winning documentary contains all-new exclusive material including additional interviews with Romero’s family and friends, candid on-set footage from TWO EVIL EYES, LAND OF THE DEAD, DIARY OF THE DEAD, SURVIVAL OF THE DEAD and many more surprises! THE DEFINITIVE DOCUMENT OF THE DEAD is a loving portrait of a horror legend, and a must-see for any hardcore horror fan!

 This film is very interesting as you get to take a trip back in time and see Romero in his younger years as he directs DAWN OF THE DEAD.  Mr. Romero is almost unrecognizable for those of us that mostly know him with his white hair and beard and his signature thick black frame glasses.  You also get to see the workings of a very young Tom Savini, and the amazing effects work he did.
 It is very interesting hearing some of the behind the scenes things that went on and the filmmakers have spared no expense in getting interviews from all those involved in the film making process and even some of Romero's family and friends.   While this new edition of the documentary film also includes some clips and interviews from his more current films, it is all the info from the DAWN OF THE DEAD film that is the main star here for sure.  It was interesting to me to see the "between the takes" footage of some of the zombies as they go about their normal business while in zombie makeup.  Speaking of zombie makeup, one scene in particular I liked was of Tom Savini transforming a young actress into a zombie, complete with time lapse photography of the make up process.  Very interesting stuff!

The film is available now from Synapse Films, and the DVD includes an all-new audio commentary from Writer/Producer/Director, Roy Frumkes.

Also, while supplies last, you can order the very limited edition Blu-ray of the film from the Synapse Films website.  The exclusive Blu-ray is not sold in stores and includes the following:

*  Limited to 1500 Units!
*  Contains the new DVD version of The Definitive Document of the Dead, along with a high-definition Blu-ray of the original 1979 16mm version.
*  A fold-out poster of the new George A. Romero painting used on the cover, created by Wes Benscoter

Do yourself  a favor and pick up a copy of this film.  No zombie film fan should be without this film!


CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Synapse website exclusive limited edition Blu-ray

Hilarious (yet disturbingly scary) prank video -- Have you seen the "Ghost In The Elevator" video yet?

  











  This could be the best prank ever.  Thanks to my friend David for posting this on my facebook wall a few days ago.  This is one of the greatest hidden camera videos I have seen.  I have seen it pop up on some other people's facebook pages in the last day or so, so it is starting to go viral.  You may have seen it already, but if you have then you know it is worth watching again. 
 This is from a hidden camera show in Brazil. Even if you don't understand what they are saying, you will enjoy the reactions from those being pranked.
  The scenario is that unsuspecting people get on an elevator (with no one else with them) which malfunctions, and the lights go out.  When the lights come back on, there is a ghostly looking young girl holding a baby doll in the elevator with them!  The lights then go out again and when they come back on she is gone!   This is brilliantly executed.  Check it out now for a good laugh!

CLICK HERE to watch the "Ghost In The Elevator" prank!

This week's Horror related DVD/Blu-ray releases: Tuesday, November 27th, 2012

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays coming out 11/27:
(Click on a title to see a trailer for that film)
  
*  6 DEGREES OF HELL [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  THE APPARITION
*  THE EXPERIMENT:  WHO'S WATCHING YOU
*  RITES OF SPRING

THE DEAD MATTER....now available on Amazon, iTunes, and Redbox!

 
 I can't believe it has been 2 years since we did a review here on the 4H blog for a cool little zombie/vampire flick called, THE DEAD MATTER.  You can read our review by clicking here.  Well, recently I was notified by the film's director, Edward Douglas, the the film has been picked up for a limited time for rent on Redbox!  The film is also now available on Amazon and iTunes! This is a huge accomplishment for a small independent film, so this goes to show you that a lot of people think this is a film you will want to check out for sure!  For those that are not familiar with the film, here is the basic plot:

The film tells the story of a guilt-ridden young woman desperate to contact her deceased brother who discovers a powerful, ancient relic that controls the dead. Her dark obsession drags her into the tangled world of two warring vampire lords, each with his own sinister plans for the artifact, and a vampire hunter who will stop at nothing to destroy it. It’s a mix of classic horror themes with modern twists and a touch of dark humor that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

 THE DEAD MATTER has been in Redboxes across the country for a few weeks now.  I meant to post this sooner and totally forgot until the other night while browsing the Redbox movies (to pick out a movie for my kids) and I ran across THE DEAD MATTER!  It is neat to see that film available in the Redbox!   

 If you haven't seen this film, go down to your local Walgreens or wherever you have a Redbox and check it out!  Even if you have seen it, go check it out and watch it again!  Support indy horror at the Redbox!  Also, Mr. Douglas mentioned that because of this deal, it has opened up the possibilities of a second film!  
 
 
CLICK HERE to visit the official website of the film and watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD from the official website...or
CLICK HERE to check out all the rental / download options like Redbox and iTunes

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!

   
I hope you are having a great Thanksgiving holiday!  I had a great day yesterday with my family and will have round 2 of Turkey this weekend at my wife's parents house.  I am going to take a break from posts for this weekend as I spend time with family and friends!

So, I leave you with this.   Last year at Thanksgiving, I posted a trailer for the killer Turkey movie, THANKSKILLING.  Well, now that killer turkey is back in THANKSKILLING 3!   Where's is Thankskilling 2 you ask...well, kinda a weird story...it's actually a part of THANKSKILLING 3.  Confused yet?  Here is the plot from the film's imdb page to help explain:

In "ThanksKilling 3", the fowl-mouthed villain Turkie is back and hacking his way to find the last copy of "ThanksKilling 2" which has landed in the hands of a group of disturbingly crude puppets. The death toll rises as Turkie carves through the likes of Flowis the rapping grandma, Rhonda the bisexual space worm, Yomi the puppet in search of her mind, and their equally ridiculous friends who all travel through fantastical settings such as the FeatherWorld and Turkey Hell. With the guidance of Uncle Donny (Dan Usaj), the wig-wearing inventor of the PluckMaster 3000, Jefferson (Joe Hartzler), Head of Security at ThanksgivingLand, and a WiseTurkey, the gatekeeper to the FeatherWorld, our collection of raunchy characters hope to fend off the murderous rampage of Turkie, all while trying to help Yomi find her mind.

I don't know about you, but this film had me at "bisexual space worm".  I must now see this movie for sure!  Ha!   Check out the trailer (which has a hilarious EVIL DEAD 2 parody) and have a great Thanksgiving!!

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer

This week's Horror related DVD/Blu-ray releases: Tuesday, November 20th, 2012

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays coming out 11/20:
(Click on a title to see a trailer for that film)
  
*  BACKROAD
*  THE CARETAKER
*  DARKLANDS
*  THE DEAD INSIDE
*  DISGRUNTLED EMPLOYEE
*  THE LOST REALITIES OF HOG CALLER
*  MARK OF THE DEVIL
*  THE PETE WALKER COLLECTION:  HOUSE OF WHIPCORD/DIE SCREAMING MARIANNE/THE COMEBACK/SCHIZO
*  PORCELAIN MAN
*  PSYCHO HORROR DOUBLE FEATURE:  PSYCHO KICKBOXER/CANVAS OF BLOOD
*  PUPPET MASTER 2 [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  PUPPET MASTER 3 [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  SCHIZO:  REMASTERED EDITION
*  SLAUGHTER CREEK
*  SLAUGHTER TALES

Blu-ray Review: RE-ANIMATOR (1985)

 
RE-ANIMATOR
Directed by Stuart Gordon
Distributed by  Image Entertainment

  RE-ANIMATOR is one of my all time favorite horror films.  It is perfect in every way and you will never here me say one bad thing about this film.   It is in my top 5 horror films for sure....maybe even cracking the top 3.  I love this film.  I didn't think I could love it any more, but now Image Entertainment has released it onto Blu-ray format, which gives me another reason to love this film.   For those not familiar with the film, here is the plot synopsis from the image entertainment press release:

  Adapted by Dennis Paoli, William J. Norris and Stuart Gordon from the H.P. Lovecraft short story, Re-Animator tells the strange tale of medical student Dan Cain (Bruce Abbot) and his girlfriend Megan Halsey (Barbara Crampton), both of them drawn to odd new student Herbert West (Jeffrey Combs) who’s conducting secret experiments involving the re-animation of dead tissue. When one of the instructors, Dr. Carl Hill (David Gale), stumbles upon their activities, West murders him -- but is brought back to life, now thirsting for revenge as well as lusting after Megan. The final denouement features the re-animated Dr. Hill squaring off against Herbert and Dan in a battle royale within the school’s morgue, complete with resurrected “henchmen” and undoubtedly one of the greatest visual double entendres in all horror cinema!

  As I stated before, I love this movie.   It has everything you'd expect from a mid-80's horror film.  Tons of great gore, some dark humor, some cheesy (but good) dialog and acting, etc.  Jeffrey Combs plays the creepy, weird new scientist Herbert West and is absolutely perfect in the role.  I can't picture anyone else pulling this performance off as well as Combs does.  The film also features the beautiful Barbara Crampton in my favorite of all her roles. She has some truly memorable scenes, especially the "head" scene which anyone who has seen the film will immediately know what I am referring too! 

 Most true horror fans probably already have a DVD copy of this film, but this is definitely one that is worth upgrading to Blu-ray.  The picture and sound quality are superb in this new HD version of the film.

RE-ANIMATOR is available now on DVD and Blu-ray and contains the following special features:

*  Documentary:  "Re-Animator Resurrectus"  [Blu-ray Exclusive]
*  Audio Commentary by Director Stuart Gordon
*  Audio Commentary by Producer Brian Yuzna and Actors
*  Interview with Director Stuart Gordon and Producer Brian Yuzna
*  Interview with Writer Dennis Paoli
*  Interview with Composer Richard Band
*  Music Discussion with Composer Richard Band
*  Interview with Fangoria Magazine Editor Tony Timpone
*  Deleted and Extended Scenes
*  Theatrical Trailer
*  TV Spots


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Blu-ray

DVD Review: THE GIRL IN ROOM 2A (1973)

    
THE GIRL IN ROOM 2A
Directed by William Rose
Distributed by Mondo Macabro / Diabolikdvd.com

I had never heard of THE GIRL IN ROOM 2A until receiving the film in my mailbox.  Upon opening it up and seeing the great retro looking cover art, I was really expecting to be blown away by this film.   I expected a great giallo style horror film in the likes of Dario Argento or Mario Bava.  Well, I have to admit it wasn't as good as I had hoped, but I think it is still worth checking out and is a pretty crazy film for all those that are into weird cinema.  Here is the basic plot synopsis from the Mondo Macabro website:
 

Before HOSTEL there was THE GIRL IN ROOM 2A... A terrifying tale of a young girl who moves into a boarding house run by a kindly older woman, only to discover that the place has a dark and sinister past - young and pretty girls seem to disappear from there without a trace. Where they go and what happens to them is the dreadful secret of GIRL IN ROOM 2A.

For the first time ever on DVD, fully uncut and uncensored, this is a classic slice of 1970's Italian shock cinema. Packed with scary scenes and demented characters, teh film is both full-on horror and an intriguing mystery. What is the secret of Room 2A?

Starring former Miss Italy, Daniela Giordana (star of Bava's Four Times That Night), this is cult movie making at its most extreme. Not to be watched alone!

    
I have to admit, maybe I expected too much from the film.  It did have it's moments and has some very good kills and some very creepy, atmospheric scenes, but there were not enough of these  type of scenes for me to outweigh the often slow, dialog filled sections of the film.  Also, the music in this film is very strange.  While some, if not most, of the soundtrack is what you would expect from an Italian giallo type film such as this, other scenes had some very weird upbeat music that just didn't seem to fit with the tone of the film. 

Something else strange, was that while watching it in English dub, every now and then a scene would switch to Italian dialog with English subtitles at the bottom.  I am assuming these were cut scenes from the original version that had been added back in and didn't have English soundtracks made for them. Kind of interesting, but at the same kind of distracting.  I wold recommend watching the entire thing in Italian with English subtitles so you have some uniformity throughout the film.

Don't be fooled by the trailer I posted below if you watch it.  The trailer is very faded and does not look good from a technical aspect.  The Mondo Macabro DVD looks very good with a new anamorphic transfer of the film.  You would never guess the film was almost 40 years old based on how the picture quality looks.  Now you will know it is from the early 70's immediately by seeing the clothing and the women's big hair.  All part of the charm of this film.  

If you are a big fan of Italian cinema, you will want to check this film out for sure.  But those that are expecting a film like HOSTEL, like the synopsis mentions, will most likely be a little disappointed in this one.

THE GIRL IN ROOM 2A is available on DVD now from Diabolik DVD and contains the following special features:

*  Brand new transfer taken from the negative
*  Filmed interview with films star Daniella Giordano
*  Trailer
*  Extensive notes & text essays on cast and crew
*  Mondo Macabro preview trailer
*  Scene access


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer  (**Warning -Trailer NSFW--contains brief nudity**)
CLICK HERE to purchase the DVD

Check out the trailer for creepy upcoming film, MAMA

 

  This movie looks creepy as hell!  I don't know what it is, but kids can be so creepy!   Check out the trailer for the new film from Executive Producer Guillermo del Toro called MAMA.   Here is the official plot from the film's official website:

  Guillermo del Toro presents Mama, a supernatural thriller that tells the haunting tale of two little girls who disappeared into the woods the day that their parents were killed. When they are rescued years later and begin a new life, they find that someone or something still wants to come tuck them in at night.
  Five years ago, sisters Victoria and Lilly vanished from their suburban neighborhood without a trace. Since then, their Uncle Lucas (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and his girlfriend, Annabel (Jessica Chastain), have been madly searching for them. But when, incredibly, the kids are found alive in a decrepit cabin, the couple wonders if the girls are the only guests they have welcomed into their home.
  As Annabel tries to introduce the children to a normal life, she grows convinced of an evil presence in their house. Are the sisters experiencing traumatic stress, or is a ghost coming to visit them? How did the broken girls survive those years all alone? As she answers these disturbing questions, the new mother will find that the whispers she hears at bedtime are coming from the lips of a deadly presence.


MAMA is scheduled to hit theaters January 18th, 2013.   I will be checking this one out for sure!
Watch the trailer and let me know what you think!


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to visit the film's official website

Graphic Novel Review: IDENTITY THIEF

 
 
IDENTITY THIEF
Written by Bryant Dillon
Art by Meaghan O’Keefe
Produced and Edited by Barbra Dillon
Co-Produced by Sam Rhodes
  
 A while back I did a review for a great graphic novel from Fanboy Comics called, SOMETHING ANIMAL.  You can see that review here.  Fanboy Comics is back with another impressive graphic novel, this one titled IDENTITY THIEF.   Here is the basic plot of the book from the book's official website:

When Daphne and Craig move into a new apartment, they have every reason to believe that they have left their troubled past behind them. Everything seems perfect, but after the discovery of a mysterious hatch in his closet, Craig begins to realize that something disturbingly inhuman is seeking a way into his home, desperate to enter his life in the most intimate and unsettling way possible.
 
This is another great graphic novel from the folks at Fanboy Comics. The story is very interesting and is a fun read.  The art is very interesting. While at first look it might look sort of amateurish, a better way to describe it in my opinion is, raw.   While not as polished as some comic art,  the style of the art gives it a very dark, raw feeling.  For this story, the artwork is perfect.  In fact, in a way it reminds me of the art of Ben Templesmith from the 30 DAYS OF NIGHT series.

An interesting thing about this graphic novel is the limited use of dialog.  While there is dialog throughout, it is very sparse and some pages have no dialog on them at at.  Here you use the art to tell the story, which is interesting as it can leave certain parts of the story open to interpretation by each individual reader.

 Fanboy Comics is doing a great job putting out some great independent comics.  Check out the sites below to learn more about Fanboy Comics and to purchase IDENTITY THIEF.


CLICK HERE to purchase IDENTITY THIEF
CLICK HERE to visit the IDENTITY THIEF website
CLICK HERE to visit the official website of Fanboy Comics

Unearthed & Untold: The Path to Pet Sematary

  Recently I was contacted by filmmaker John Campopiano about a new film he and his film partner, Justin White, were making called UNEARTHED & UNTOLD:  THE PATH TO PET SEMATARY.   The film is an independent documentary on the making of the film PET SEMATARY.  Here is the official plot synopsis of the film from the film's official Facebook page:

  Unearthed & Untold: The Path to Pet Sematary is an independent documentary taking an extensive look at the making of Pet Sematary, the origins of the story, the stories of cast and crew, memories of the Maine locals who helped make the film, and the legacy the film has established among horror fans and scholars of Stephen King's work. In addition to featuring many cast and crew members never before interviewed about their involvement in the film, this documentary will also take fans on a tour of all the filming locations. With never-before-seen photographs and footage from behind-the-scenes, original props from the film, media coverage of the 1988 production, and new stories about the Hollywood production being on location in Maine, Unearthed & Untold: The Path to Pet Sematary is an all-encompassing documentary by fans for the fans.

 

  Check out the film' official Facebook page to keep up with all the news and info about this film.  I am a huge fan of PET SEMATARY, so I personally can't wait to see this documentary.  It sounds like the filmmakers are pulling out all the stops and covering all the bases in what looks to be like a very entertaining look at the making of the PET SEMATARY.

 

CLICK HERE to visit the official Facebook Page for the film

This week's Horror related DVD/Blu-ray releases: Tuesday, November 13th, 2012

   

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays coming out 11/13:
(Click on a title to see a trailer for that film)

*  5 DARK SOULS
*  BIGFOOT:  THE LOST COAST TAPES
*  DEVIL'S ANGEL
*  GHOSTMAKER