Blu-ray Review: THE UNNAMABLE (1988)

THE UNNAMABLE
Directed by Jean-Paul Ouellette
Distributed by Unearthed Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  For years I have had a DVD copy of a film called, THE UNNAMABLE II.   I had never watched it, because I didn't want to see part 2 of something before I had seen part 1.  I assumed I could find the first UNNAMABLE on DVD, but was never able to.  It turns out the first film had never been releases on DVD.  Well, now the search is over and I can add the first film to my collection thanks to the amazing Stephen Biro and Unearthed Films.  Unearthed Films recently bought the rights to THE UNNAMABLE and have released an amazing DVD and Blu-ray of the film with a newly restored 4K transfer. 

  If you are unfamiliar with this film, here is the basic plot synopsis courtesy of the MVD website:

  College students from Miskatonic University who retreat to an early 18th-century mansion for a weekend of lust are stalked by a fatalistic female in this horror film based on a story by H.P. Lovecraft. The demon delights in tearing the limbs off her human victims to carry out a centuries-old family curse.

  This film was released in 1988, and there is no doubt that it is a product of the 80's.   The character's clothing and hair is a dead giveaway.   That's how we looked back then, though, so try to look past the laughable clothing choices of some of these characters.   The story is simple enough, kids are trying to stay in a house that is inhabited by an ancient creature of some sort.  I'm sure it's no surprise to you that the kids meet their demise, one at a time.   There are some gruesome kills and some amazing gore in this film, all by practical effects.   The monster is not really seen until towards the very end of the film, but when it is revealed, it is well worth the wait.   I have no clue what this creature is supposed to be, but it look like it's part goat with it's hooved feet and fur!  

 Unearthed Films has done an amazing job with this release.  The picture quality is very clear and I have to comment on the beautiful slip case cover art!   I have no idea who did that cover art, but it is truly amazing!    Now, I do have to mention one issue I found with this release, and that is the 5.1 DTS-HD Surround Sound has a glitch where the sound effects are doubled.  So basically it sounds like an echo after every sound effect.  This was super annoying, but switching to the original 2.0 Mono soundtrack fixed the issue and it was fine after doing that.   It's a very minor issue, but definitely worthy of a mention.   

 This is a must see in my opinion, especially if you are a fan of  H.P. Lovecraft and films inspired by his stories.

 THE UNNAMABLE is available now on DVD & Blu-ray from Unearthed Classics and MVD Entertainment and includes the following Special Features:

*  4K Scan with color correction and restoration from the original negative.
*  5.1 DTS-HD Surround Sound, 2.0 PCM
*  Video Interview with actors Charles Klausmeyer & Mark Kinsey Stephenson
*  Video Interview with actor Eben Ham
*  Video Interview with actress Laura Albert
*  Video Interview with Mark Parra
*  Video Interviews with R. Christopher Biggs special makeup effects artist & make up artist Camille Calvet
*  Audio Commentary with Charles Klausmeyer, Mark Stephenson, Laura Albert, Eben Ham, Camille Calvet, R. Christopher Biggs
*  Photo Gallery
*  Trailers

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

 

 

Blu-ray Review: ZOMBIE (1979)

ZOMBIE
Directed by Lucio Fulci
Distributed by Blue Underground / MVD Distribution

 I have been a huge fan of Lucio Fulci ever since I saw my first film by him.  The first film of his I ever saw was ZOMBIE, on an old clam shell VHS back in my college days.   It has been almost 20 years since I have seen this film, so I was thrilled when I got a chance to review this new 40th Anniversary 4K Blu-ray edition of the film.   Here is a brief synopsis of the new release courtesy of the Blue Underground website:

In Italy, it was considered the 'unofficial sequel' to DAWN OF THE DEAD. In England, it was known as ZOMBIE FLESH EATERS and banned as obscene. In America, it was called ZOMBIE and advertised with the depraved tag line "WE ARE GOING TO EAT YOU!" Tisa Farrow (THE GRIM REAPER), Ian McCulloch (CONTAMINATION), Al Cliver (CANNIBALS), and Richard Johnson (THE HAUNTING) star in this worldwide splatter sensation directed by 'Maestro Of Gore' Lucio Fulci (CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD, THE HOUSE BY THE CEMETERY) that remains one of the most eye-skewering, skin-ripping, gore-gushingly graphic horror hits of all time!

  The plot of the film is simple.....a woman goes looking for her father on an island he was last known to be at.  That island is, of course, being ravaged by zombies!  The film is known by quite a few other names, such as:  ZOMBI 2, ZOMBIE FLESH EATERS, ISLAND OF THE LIVING DEAD, ISLAND OF THE FLESH-EATERS, and WOODOO. 

  The zombie effects in this film are top notch, and rank among my favorite zombies in film history, especially the worm infested zombie from the original poster and cover art.   This is how I imagine a zombie looking if they were real, decayed with worms oozing from the eye sockets!   Gross!  Along with the great make up and effects is some amazing gore, including the famous splinter in the eyeball scene and multiple neck biting resulting in tons of blood.   There is also that one scene you might have heard about, where a zombie fights a shark!  It really must be seen to be believed, and if you haven't seen it, you are truly missing out! 

  If you have never seen this film, do yourself a favor and watch it asap.   This is one of my favorite zombie films of all time.  Even if you have seen it, do yourself a favor and check out this new blu-ray release, as you have never seen it like this before! 

 ZOMBIE is available now from Blue Underground and contains the following Special Features:

Disc 1 (Blu-ray) Feature Film + Extras:
*  NEW! Audio Commentary #1 with Troy Howarth, Author of Splintered Visions: Lucio Fulci and His Films
*  Audio Commentary #2 with Star Ian McCulloch and Diabolik Magazine Editor Jason J. Slater
*  NEW! When The Earth Spits Out The Dead - Interview with Stephen Thrower, Author of Beyond Terror: The Films of Lucio Fulci
*  Theatrical Trailers
*  TV Spots
*  Radio Spots
*  Poster & Still Gallery
*  Guillermo del Toro Intro

Disc 2 (Blu-ray) Extras:
*  Zombie Wasteland - Interviews with Stars Ian McCulloch, Richard Johnson & Al Cliver, and Actor/Stuntman Ottaviano Dell'Acqua
*  Flesh Eaters on Film - Interview with Co-Producer Fabrizio De Angelis
*  Deadtime Stories - Interviews with Co-Writers Elisa Briganti and (Uncredited) Dardano Sacchetti
*  World of the Dead - Interviews with Cinematographer Sergio Salvati and Production & Costume Designer Walter Patriarca
*  Zombi Italiano - Interviews with Special Make-Up Effects Artists Gianetto De Rossi & Maurizio Trani and Special Effects Artist Gino De Rossi
*  Notes on a Headstone - Interview with Composer Fabio Frizzi
*  All in the Family - Interview with Antonella Fulci
*  Zombie Lover - Award-Winning Filmmaker Guillermo del Toro talks about one of his favorite films

BONUS! ZOMBIE Original Motion Picture Soundtrack CD by Fabio Frizzi

BONUS! Collectable Booklet with new essay by Stephen Thrower


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


Other Box Art Options:

 

Blu-ray Review: THE SLAYER (1982)

THE SLAYER
Written & Directed by  J.S. Cardone
Distributed by Arrow Video / MVD Entertainment Group

 Arrow Video continues to put out some of the best horror releases available.  THE SLAYER is a great film that I had honestly never heard of before.  I love that Arrow is introducing us to some classic, yet lesser known, horror films.  Here is the basic plot of the film courtesy of the MVD website:

  IS IT A NIGHTMARE? OR IS IT... THE SLAYER? One of the most sought-after titles for slasher fans everywhere, The Slayer finally rises from the ashes of obscurity in a brand new 4K transfer courtesy of Arrow Video. Two young couples set off to a secluded island for what promises to be a restful retreat. But the peace is short-lived: as a storm batters the island, troubled artist Kay begins to sense that a malevolent presence is here with them, stalking them at every turn. Is she losing her mind, or are her childhood nightmares of a demonic assailant coming to terrifying life? Previously only available on home video in truncated or full screen versions, The Slayer - whose nightmares-seeping-into-reality theme predates a certain Wes Craven classic by several years - comes lovingly restored from the original negative in a stunning transfer that will be a revelation to fans both old and new.

 I love horror films from the 1980's.  In fact, I think that is the greatest decade for horror films.   Arrow Video has been putting out so many great horror films lately, and the majority have been these great 80's classics, some more obscure than others. 

  This film is one any 80's horror film fan will want to check out.  Now I will admit it is a little slow at the start, but the 2nd half of the film picks up and makes up for the sluggish first half.    The film is set on a remote island which immediately sets up the eerie tone, knowing how secluded the characters are from other people and any possibility of getting help.  Add in the storm that is headed their way and that completes the very creepy tone of the film, and gives us some of the films more atmospheric and dark visuals.

 As with any horror film from the 80's, we get some great jump scares, some great kill scenes and some great gore, all done with practical effects, of course.  Beheadings, pitch-forkings, hangings, etc are all on display in this film.  At times the film almost feels like an arthouse style horror film, something reminiscent of a Jean Rollin or Jess Franco film mixed with a typical 80's slasher.  This is a film very worthy of a watch!  Also, I have to mention the monster/creature that we finally get to see at the end.  It is one of the most terrifying and frightening creatures I have ever seen in a film, yet we only get to see it for a few seconds.  I really wish we would have seen more of this creature throughout the film!

  THE SLAYER is available now from MVD and Arrow Video and contains the following special features:

*  Brand new restoration from a 4K scan of the original negative
*  High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations
*  Original Uncompressed Mono Audio
*  Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
*  Brand new interviews with cast and crew
*  Original Theatrical Trailer
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Justin Osbourn
*  FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Collector’s booklet featuring new liner notes by writer Lee Gambin


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the BD/DVD combo

 

 

Blu-ray Review: DEVIL'S DOMAIN (2016)

DEVIL'S DOMAIN
Written & Directed by  Jared Cohn
Distributed by MVD Visual

   I knew nothing about this film going into it, in fact, I had never even heard of DEVIL'S DOMAIN.  It sounded like a cool concept, though, so I decided to give it a try!  I am not sure why I have not heard more about this film.  It is a cool film with some originality that is missing from a lot of today's horror films.  Here is the basic story from the film's imdb page:

Devil's Domain tells the story of Lisa Pomson, a troubled, social media obsessed teen, conflicted with her sexuality and her parents misunderstanding of her. When Lisa gets secretly filmed binging, purging, and masturbating the video goes viral and she suffers extreme cyber-bullying. Suicidal, and on the brink of insanity, a beautiful, mysterious stranger (the Devil) strikes up an online relationship with her. They grow close and meet and the stranger offers to help in exchange for a favor. The devil will rid her of the bullies and give Lisa fame and fortune in exchange for a baby. Lisa agrees and as the bullies die one by one, Lisa's conscience kicks in and she regrets doing the deal. To keep Lisa in line, the Devil threatens eternal suffering and the death of her loved ones until she finally succumbs to give the devil a baby that will grow to reign terror upon the world.               

  The film is like a darker FINAL DESTINATION entry with each of  Lisa's bullies dying one by one, each on in a unique and sometimes grotesque way!    The acting is great here, especially from newcomer Madi Vodane  who plays the main character Lisa.  She does an excellent job as the tormented teen, Lisa.  

  One of my favorite parts about this film are the effects.  The filmmakers rely on almost all practical effects which is very rare these days, but it makes a film so much more believable and likeable in my opinion.   It was great to see some good gore in a horror film again.  That is one of my main complaints with horror films these days, most are very light on the gore for some reason. 

  DEVIL'S DOMAIN was very enjoyable and entertaining film that I highly recommend.

  DEVIL'S DOMAIN is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Cleopatra Entertainment and MVD Visual.   Bonus features include the following:

*  Slide Show
*  Extended Scenes
*  Behind the Scenes


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

Blu-ray review: ED WOOD'S "THE VIOLENT YEARS"

THE VIOLENT YEARS
Written by:  Edward D. Wood Jr.
Directed by:  William Morgan
Distributed by AGFA & MVD Visual

  When I saw the name of this film was ED WOOD'S "THE VIOLENT YEARS", I was assuming he directed the film.  It turns out, Ed Wood was the writer for this film.  The movie was directed by William Morgan, which probably explains why the film was not nearly as bad as I was expecting it to be when I was assuming Wood was the director!   Don't worry though, if you are a fan of Ed Wood's awful films, this one will still be a hit with you!  Here is the synopsis from the MVD website:

'I shot a cop -- SO WHAT!' So say the girl gang killers in THE VIOLENT YEARS! Written by Ed Wood (PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE), this is the story of teenage hellcats who live for gas station hijackings, pajama party orgies, and murder! From Wood's deranged dialogue to the scene where the girls perform a 'man attack,' this is an essential expose on crime, gender politics, and sweater-stealing.

 Well, first off I have to mention that I know this isn't really a horror film.  So what's it doing on horror website you might say?  Well, as mentioned above it was written by Ed Wood, and that's a good enough reason for me.  Wood is known for directing some awful films, but I have to tell you, he's not much of a writer either!  Ha!   In fact, the dialog is one of the best things about this film.  It's really bad, but in a "so bad, it's good" kind of way.  I knew I was in for a treat when a group of men were talking about the violent spree the  group of girls were on and one said "When will these kids learn"?   The other man's response was "These aren't kids, they're morons"!   Ha!  Classic Ed Wood dialog right there!  

Another thing I loved about this film were the effects, or lack thereof.   Anytime someone got shot, there was no blood or even a bullet hole, they would just hold their hand over where they had apparently been shot and fall to the ground.   It was confusing at times because I didn't know if they had actually been shot or not, but I just took their word for it!  Ha!  This movie is no masterpiece by any means, but it does have a certain charm to it.  It kept me entertained the entire running time, so that's good.  Although I must note the running time in only 65 minutes, so I'm not sure if I could have made it if it was any longer!  

  THE VIOLENT YEARS is available now on Blu-ray from AGFA and MVD Visual and contains the following Special Features:

*  New 4K scan from the original 35mm camera negative
*  Commentary track with filmmaker Frank Henenlotter and Ed Wood biographer Rudolph Grey
*  Gutter-noir trailers from the Something Weird vault
*  Memorbilia Scrapbook
*  BONUS MOVIE:   "Anatomy of a Psycho" -1961 presented in a new 2K scan from an original 35mm theatrical print


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

 

 

 

Blu-ray Review: SATAN'S CHEERLEADERS (1977)

SATAN'S CHEERLEADERS
Directed by Greydon Clark
Distributed by VCI Entertainment / MVD Entertainment Group

  I always love coming across films that not only have I never seen, but that I have never even heard of!    SATAN'S CHEERLEADERS  is one of those films.   I'll be honest, as soon as I saw the cover art for this film I had a hunch I was going to like this film!   Here is the basic plot of the film from the VCI website:

  Benedict High School's cheerleaders aren't shy and sweet. The football team knows them well – and Billy, the school's disturbed janitor, would like to. In the locker room, the girls shower and dress, unaware of the evil eyes which secretly watch them. They don't know that a curse has been placed on their clothes. And they don't know that their trip to the first big game of the season might sideline them for eternity. Will the cheerleaders succumb to the dark ritual of sexual sacrifice and death that's been plotted for them? Only those who dare watch will know!

  I'll start by saying that I have a real fondness for 1970's horror films.  There are some really fun 70's horror films and this is definitely one of them.   I do have to admit that this film won't be for everyone, and as much as I liked it, there were some slow parts that even I could have done without.  The running time clocks in at 93 minutes, which doesn't seem to long, but some parts did seem to drag on at times.  I think a little tighter editing and something closer to a 83 minute running time could have really improved this film.  Even so, this is one you'll want to check out. 

  SATAN'S CHEERLEADERS is full of crazy characters and some really cheesy 70's dialog, but that is really what gives it a lot of it's charms.   I was also surprised at the lack of killing and gore...it has very little killing and no gore at all that I recall.  This film is more about the storyline than effects or scares. It's a fun tale that just gets crazier and crazier as the film goes on.

  SATAN'S CHEERLEADERS is available now on Blu-ray/DVD combo from VCI Entertainment and MVD Visual.  Special features include:

*  Behind the scenes Photo Gallery

*  Commentary by Director Greydon Clark

*  Commentary by genre film director David DeCoteau and film historian and journalist, David Del Valle

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

 

Guest Blu-ray Review: CALTIKI: THE IMMORTAL MONSTER (1959)

CALTIKI:  THE IMMORTAL MONSTER
Directed by:  Riccardo Freda and Mario Bava
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  I haven't had a guest review posted on my website in a long time.  I figured it's about time to change that.  You're all probably tired of my ramblings anyway!   This time though, you don't get just one guest reviewer, you get two!  It's not a fellow blogger, or a known writer, either.  Nope, this time the guest review is being done by my twin 10 year old boys!   I don't review too many horror films that the boys can watch with me, so they were super excited to be able to watch this one.  It's a pretty tame black and white horror film from 1959 called CALTIKI:  THE IMMORTAL MONSTER.  Here's the synopsis of the film courtesy of the MVD website:

 Arrow Video presents a collaboration between two giants of Italian cult cinema - Riccardo Freda (The Vampires, The Horrible Dr Hichcock) and Mario Bava (5 Dolls for an August Moon, Blood and Black Lace)! A team of archaeologists led by Dr John Fielding (John Merivale, Circus of Horrors) descends on the ruins of an ancient Mayan city to investigate the mysterious disappearance of its inhabitants. However, the luckless explorers get more than they bargained for when their investigation of a sacrificial pool awakens the monster that dwells beneath its waters - the fearsome and malevolent god Caltiki. Though Riccardo Freda received sole directing credit, a significant portion of the film was in fact the work of Mario Bava, who also served as its cinematographer and was responsible its striking special effects. Drawing on a diverse array of influences, from The Quatermass Experiment to the works of HP Lovecraft, Caltiki the Immortal Monster is a unique and unforgettable sci-fi chiller which showcases these two legendary filmmakers at their most inventive. Presented here for the first time in a newly restored high definition transfer, Caltiki shines - and terrifies! - like never before.

  I've shown my kids THE BLOB (1958) and THE BIRDS (1963), and they loved those, so I figured they would enjoy this one.  I also knew being from 1959 (and doing a little internet research) that it was going to be tame enough to let them watch it.   So here you go, each review is just a short paragraph, but I think they did a pretty good job!   **SPOILER ALERT **  Bewarned, there are some spoilers in these reviews! 

 
  I have not seen too many horror movies in my life but I enjoyed this one. Caltiki came out in 1959 so it was tame enough for me to watch.  This movie had good parts and bad parts. One of my favorite scenes was when Max was running from the police. It was very intense and kept me on the tip of my chair.  Another one of my favorite scenes were when the mother and the baby were crawling outside the windows trying to escape from the monster that was taking over their house.  Something that I really enjoyed about this movie was the music. I think it really fit the movie considering the intensity of it. Also considering the effects were not as great as they are today back in the late 50’s,  these effects were pretty good. A few things bad were that some of the story was sort of hard to follow. Also, they quickly came to the conclusion that you could just burn him, making him not that immortal. Over all the movie was great.  Good for someone who doesn’t want something too scary, but just a little creepy.
   - Levi

  I am not the biggest horror movie fan but I enjoyed “Caltiki the immortal monster” because it was not as scary as some as the new movies coming out today. I liked the scenery on the jungle ruins, they showed a lot of hard work and effort put into them. The music was not often played as in some other movies, but when it was played it sounded really good! The effects were good for the time of 1959. A bad thing that I found was that the natives wore American looking clothing instead of tribal and/or old clothes. Another not so great thing was that they said “You can only kill it with fire but they only tried 2 things, guns and fire.  It’s more like “Caltiki the bullet proof monster”. Also they killed the “immortal” monster and there wasn’t even a twist ending that he was still alive, so much for immortal! Finally the fire effects and fire tanks where really cool! If you love horror movies or even if you're not a big fan like me,  you can still enjoy this movie whoever you are.
  - Luke
 

Well, there you have it.  I couldn't have said it better myself!  I think they did a great job and I found it interesting that they both mentioned the music in the film, pretty good observation I thought.

CALTIKI:  THE IMMORTAL MONSTER is available now from Arrow Video and MVD Entertainment and contains the following special features:

Brand new 2K restoration of the film from the original camera negative

High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations

Original mono Italian and English soundtracks (lossless on the Blu-ray Disc)

Newly translated English subtitles for the Italian soundtrack

Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing for the English soundtrack

New audio commentary by Tim Lucas, author of Mario Bava: All the Colors of the Dark

New audio commentary by Troy Howarth, author of The Haunted World of Mario Bava and So Deadly, So Perverse: 50 Years of Italian Giallo Films

From Quatermass to Caltiki, a new discussion with author and critic Kim Newman on the influence of classic monster movies on Caltiki

Riccardo Freda, Forgotten Master, an archival interview with critic Stefano Della Casa

The Genesis of Caltiki, an archival interview with filmmaker Luigi Cozzi

Archival introduction to the film by Stefano Della Casa

Alternate opening titles for the US version

Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Graham Humphreys

FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing by Kat Ellinger and Roberto Curti

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

Blu-ray Review: FRANCESCA (2015)

FRANCESCA
Directed by  Luciano Onetti
Distributed by Unearthed Films / MVD Entertainment Group

 Giallo film fans will want to do themselves a favor and pick up a copy of Luciano Onetti's FRANCESCA asap!   I knew nothing about this film going into it and was amazed I have not heard more about it.   Here is the basic plot of the film from the MVD website:

  It's been 15 years since the disappearance of little Francesca, daughter of the renowned poet and playwright, Vittorio Visconti. The community is stalked by a psychopath bent on cleaning the city of "impure and damned souls". Moretti and Succo are the detectives in charge of finding the killer of these "Dantesque" crimes. Francesca has returned, but she is not be the same girl they once knew.

 The first thing that really impressed me with this film was the overall look of it.  Although just made a couple of years ago, it has the exact look and feel of an original Giallo film from the 70's.   In fact, I actually had to look up the film on imdb.com to see if this film was a re-issue of an old film or if it was a new film.  I thought it was a new film, but as I watched I started to question that.   Very well done by the filmmakers. 

  Another thing I noticed was the color of the film, very vibrant in some scenes and reminiscent of Dario Argento's work.  The film also has some very good camera work, includind some impressive shots and camera angles.  There is also some very creepy imagery in this film, which is always a plus in my book.  

  The film is a bit slow moving at times, I have to admit, but honestly I find most Giallo films are like this at some point.  There are a few good kills, and a little blood, but gorehounds need to know that this is not a slasher/splatter flick by any means.  It is a much more art house type of horror film, an intelligent horror film that honestly you don't see too much these days.

  This was a very impressive film to me.  I highly recommend it for anyone that is a fan of the Giallo subgenre.

  FRANCESCA is available now from Unearthed Films and MVD Entertainment.  It was released as an impressive Blu-ray/DVD/CD Limited Collector's Edition combo pack and contains the following special features:

*  Behind the Scenes Featurette
*  Deleted Scenes
*  Interview with Lucianno and Nicolas Onetti
*  Unearthed Trailer Reel


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

Blu-ray Review: WE ARE THE FLESH (2016)

WE ARE THE FLESH
Written & Directed by Emiliano Rocha Minter
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  I have seen some strange movies in my life, but WE ARE THE FLESH ranks up there
near the top for sure.   This is one of the newest releases from Arrow Video, who always puts out great films and a quality product, so I went into this one hoping for an amazing experience.  I knew nothing about this film, in fact, I had never even heard of it before.   I was hoping for a new, modern day classic....instead, I got a crazy piece of cinema that I am still not sure exactly what to think of it.  Here is the basic plot courtesy of the MVD website:

  A visionary and bizarre slice of Mexican arthouse cinema, We Are The Flesh is an extraordinary and unsettling film experience, a sexually charged and nightmarish journey into an otherworldly dimension of carnal desire and excess, as well as a powerful allegory on the corrupting power of human desire. A young brother and sister, roaming an apocalyptic city, take refuge in the dilapidated lair of a strange hermit. He puts them to work building a bizarre cavernous structure, where he acts out his insane and depraved fantasies. Trapped in this maddening womb-like world under his malign influence, they find themselves sinking into the realms of dark and forbidden behaviour. Mixing the graphic, powerful imagery of Gaspar Noe's Love and Enter The Void with the surreal, hallucinatory impact of Alejandro Jodorowsky, We Are The Flesh is a bizarre, psychedelic head trip, mixing intense, outrageously explicit imagery with a profound allegory on the nature of existence, to make this an unforgettable, boundary-pushing experience unlike anything you've ever seen.

  Now I will start off by saying this film is extremely well made.  It has some amazing visuals and scenery in the film.   It contains some amazing camera shots and looks like a much bigger budget film than it probably actually was.  That being, said, I honestly have no clue what was going on most of the time during this film.  The plot is very simple, yet very complicated at the same time...if that makes any sense.   There are basically only three actors in the film, and all the "action" takes place in this guy's underground hideout.  So while that's basically the plot, so much stuff happens down in the hideout that it's hard to keep up with.  I honestly don't know what was going on or why.  At one point, the man was having the guy and girl have sex while he watched and pleasured himself as he watched.  I have no clue what this was for, other than sheer shock value, as the film didn't just imply this was happening, but it graphically showed it.
 
  After the man climaxes, he dies...but a little while later he is reborn from a womb like structure down in his cave.  This isn't a figurative re-birth...he literally falls out of a womb in the wall, coming out naked and covered with slime.  Hey, I told you it was weird!    Now I'm sure this is some genius inspirational symbolism for something that went way over my head, but to me it was just flat out weird.  

  I wouldn't say this was a bad film by any means, as it was extremely well made and acted.  I was really impressed that this was the director's first feature length film, so that tells me a lot about this director and the talent he has for future films.  I just felt like this movie was made mainly for the shock factor (graphic sex scene) and to me, it is not one that I would want to re-visit any time soon. 
Now, that being said, remember that this is my opinion and you might love this film.  In fact, I read a few reviews online to see what most people thought of this film, and some people just loved it and deemed it an instant cult classic, while others were kind of on the fence about it (like me) and then some just hated it.   It is really a film you need to watch for yourself and make your own opinion of.

  WE ARE THE FLESH is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Arrow Films and is being distributed in the U.S. by MVD Entertainment.   Special Features include the following:


*  New interviews with director Emiliano Rocha Minter and cast members Noé Hernández, María Evoli and Diego Gamaliel
*  A new video essay by critic Virginie Sélavy
*  Original theatrical trailer
*  Two short films by Emiliano Rocha Minter; Dentro and Videohome
*  Stills gallery
*  High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation
*  5.1 surround and uncompressed stereo 2.0 audio options
*  FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film by critic Anton Bitel, and a note from the producer on the film
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork
*  Optional English subtitles   

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

Blu-ray Review: PSYCHOMANIA (1973)

PSYCHOMANIA
Directed by Don Sharp
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

Here is another great example of a film I have always heard about and wanted to see, but just never got the chance to check it out.   I was finally able to see PSYCHOMANIA thanks to the new Arrow Films release, but now that I have seen it, I have to question exactly why this film is considered a cult classic.   Before I go any further, here is the film's basic plot courtesy of the MVD website:

The United States gave motorcycle-mad cinemagoers Easy Rider, The Wild One and The Wild Angels. The United Kingdom gave them Psychomania, the tale of zombie bikers run amok is southern England. The Living Dead are a delinquent biker gang, fond of causing havoc on British roadways and making out in graveyards. Gang leader Tom (Nicky Henson) also has a Satanist for a mother, and when he discovers the secret of immortality, the name of his motley crew takes on a more literal meaning... Directed by Hammer veteran Don Sharp (The Kiss of the Vampire, The Devil-Ship Pirates) and co-starring Beryl Reid (Dr. Phibes Rises Again) and George Sanders (Village of the Damned), Psychomania is a wonderfully offbeat gem, outlandish and eccentric in equal measure.

 Ok, so when I first read the synopsis about zombie bikers, I was pretty excited.  But while watching the film, I was sorely disappointed when the main biker, Tom, came back from the dead.  He came back looking exactly like what he looked like before!  I mean exactly.  Not even some dirt in his hair! He looked as if he was still a normal living person.  This was a huge issue with me because when I expect a zombie biker, I expect at least some rotting flesh.  Is that too much to ask? 
 
 I also expected a much better plot/story from this film.    What I got was a movie that mostly made no sense whatsoever, including a weird subplot about a magical frog.  I honestly have no clue what that was all about.  Some of the dialog was very weird as well, if not completely laughable at times. 
You really can't categorize this film as a horror movie.  There is nothing "horror" about it really. I really don't know how you would categorize this film, other than just plain weird!

 The only thing this film really has going for it is the amazing 2K restoration that Arrow Films gave it.  Arrow releases seem to always have excellent picture and sound quality, and this release is no different.  It's just a shame they spent all this time and effort on such a sub-par film.   This is only my opinion, though, so check it out for yourself and let me know what you think. 
 

  PSYCHOMANIA will be available on Blu-ray from Arrow Films on February 21st, and contains the following special features:

• 2K restoration from preservation negatives
• High Definition (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations
• Original 1.0 mono audio (uncompressed on the Blu-ray)
• Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing
• Brand-new interview with star Nicky Henson
• Return of the Living Dead, an archive featurette containing interviews actors Henson, Mary Larkin, Denis Gilmore, Roy Holder and Rocky Taylor
• Sound of Psychomania, an archive interview with composer John Cameron
• Riding Free, an archive interview with Riding Free singer Harvey Andrews
• Hell for Leather, a brand-new featurette on the company who supplied the film s costumes
• Remastering Psychomania, a look at the film s restoration from the original 35mm black and white separation masters
• Theatrical trailer
• Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by the Twins of Evil
FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Collector s booklet containing writing by Vic Pratt, William Fowler and Andrew Roberts
 
CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the Blu-ray/DVD combo pack

Blu-ray Review: SLUGS (1988)

SLUGS
Directed by  Juan Piquer Simón
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group


 I am really loving all the great, classic horror films that Arrow Video has been putting out lately.  Arrow getting U.S. rights and distributing here in the States through MVD Entertainment is one of the greatest things to happen to DVD/BD collecting in quite some time!  Arrow is constantly releasing great horror films, a lot of which I have always heard about, but had never seen.  Such is the case with one of Arrow's newest releases, SLUGS.  I have always known about this film, but somehow it always slipped past me through all my movie watching years.  Well, I'm glad to say I finally got to see it, and it was a lot of fun!   Here is the basic plot from the MVD website:

  THEY SLIME. THEY OOZE. THEY KILL. From celebrated Spanish director Juan Piquer Simon, the man behind the truly demented slasher flick Pieces (1982), comes a terrifying tale of mutant slugs on the rampage in small-town America. The townsfolk of a rural community are dying in strange and gruesome circumstances. Following the trail of horrifically mutilated cadavers, resident health inspector Mike Brady is on the case to piece together the mystery. He soon comes to a terrifying conclusion - giant slugs are breeding in the sewers beneath the town, and they're making a meal of the locals! Based on the novel by acclaimed British horror author Shaun Hutson, Slugs outdoes its creature feature peers by adding an extra dose of gross-out gore into the equation, culminating in one of the most squirm-inducing animal attack movies ever to slither its way across screens.

  The 1980's is my favorite decade of horror films by far, and this film is a good example of why.  A lot of the 80's horror films were pretty cheesy, especially the creature features like this film, but that is what gives them so much character.   A lot of people wouldn't find a slug that scary really....they are slow, and don't really do much, but in this film, they are pretty fast moving and they eat meat, especially human meat! 

  This movie is a lot of fun, and never takes itself too seriously.  The slugs attack in packs in this film, completely overwhelming their victims.  Such was the case in one of my favorite kills, where slugs fill the room and cover the bedroom floor of a young couple messing around in bed.  The naked woman steps out of bed and onto the slugs, slipping in the coating of slime that now covers the floor.  In a mater of seconds, she is covered with the leech like slugs, and covered in her own blood. 

  Speaking of blood, there is a lot of it on screen and tons of gore in general.   The special effects are excellent, especially since this was in the great age of all practical effects!  If you have not seen SLUGS, I highly recommend it.  If you have seen it, I urge you to revisit it, especially since it looks so good on the Blu-ray transfer.  
 
  SLUGS is available now from Arrow Video and MVD Entertainment, and as always, Arrow has packed this release with tons of great special features including:

*  Brand new restoration from original film elements
*  High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation
*  Original Uncompressed PCM Stereo audio
*  Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
*  Audio commentary by writer and filmmaker Chris Alexander
*  Here's Slugs In Your Eye - an interview with actor Emilio Linder
*  They Slime, They Ooze, They Kill: The Effects of Slugs - an interview with special effects artist Carlo De Marchis
*  Invasion USA - an interview with art director Gonzalo Gonzalo
*  The Lyons Den - an interview and locations tour with production manager Larry Ann Evans
*  1988 Goya Awards promo reel
*  Original Theatrical Trailer
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Wes Benscoter
*  Fully-illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing by writer Michael Gingold


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

Blu-ray Review: DEAD-END DRIVE-IN (1986)

DEAD-END DRIVE-IN
Directed by  Brian Trenchard-Smith
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  I am loving these Arrow Video U.S. releases.  Arrow has been releasing some great films for years over in the U.K.,  and they are fairly new to the U.S. market, but man they are making a name for themselves very quickly here in the U.S.   They have released some great films from the past, lots of films that I have heard of, but have never had the opportunity to see.  DEAD-END DRIVE-IN is one of those films.  I have always heard of it, but had never seen it.   Now I have thanks to Arrow Video and MVD Entertainment!
 Here is a brief plot synopsis from the MVD website:

  THE PRICE OF ADMISSION IS THE REST OF YOUR LIFE. One of Quentin Tarantino's favourite directors, Brian Trenchard-Smith was a key figure in the Ozploitation movement, responsible for The Man from Hong Kong, Stunt Rock, Turkey Shoot, BMX Bandits... and dystopian cult classic Dead-End Drive In! Set in a near-future where the economy has crumbled and violent gangs play havoc in the streets, the powers-that-be have decided to lure the delinquent youth into drive-in cinemas and keep them there. No longer just a place to watch trashy movies and make out, these outdoor picture shows have become concentration camps for the unruly and unwanted. With its day-glo colour scheme, new wave soundtrack and extraordinary stunt work, Dead-End Drive-In is in the tradition of Ozploitation milestones Mad Max and The Cars That Ate Paris only very, very eighties.

  There is no denying this is an 80's film, it has the feel to it in every aspect.   It's like a cheesy, light-hearted version of MAD MAX.   It also reminded me of such films as 1990: THE BRONX WARRIORS and ESCAPE FROM THE BRONX, except set in a drive-in theater.   Now I will admit, it's a strange concept for sure, and it's never really explained what they are planning on doing with all these kids they trap at the Drive-In, but I guess that doesn't really matter here.   Mainly what we are here to watch are the cool action scenes, some of which are very cool and contain some amazing camera work. 

  As always, the picture quality on this release is excellent!  Also, just like with every Arrow release, we are treated to tons of special features including the following:

*  Brand new 2K restoration from original film materials
*  High Definition (1080p) Presentation
*  Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing
*  Audio commentary by director Brian Trenchard-Smith
*  The Stuntmen, Trenchard Smith's classic television documentary on Grant Page (Mad Max, Road Games) and other Australian stunt performers
*  Hospitals Don't Burn Down, Trenchard-Smith's 1978 public information film told in pure Ozploitation fashion
*  Theatrical Trailer
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Chris Malbon


 DEAD-END DRIVE-IN will be available this Tuesday, 9/20,  from Arrow Video and MVD Entertainment!

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

Blu-ray Review: MICROWAVE MASSACRE (1983)

MICROWAVE MASSACRE
Directed by  Wayne Berwick
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  Finally!  I have always heard of MICROWAVE MASSACRE, but trying to get my hands on a copy of it was extremely hard to do!  The DVD was out of print for a long time, so copies were extremely pricey.  Luckily, the great folks at Arrow Video have released this film on an amazing Blu-ray/DVD combo pack!    For those not familiar with the film, here is the basic plot from the MVD website:

 THEY CAME FOR DINNER...TO FIND THEY WERE IT!! Microwave Massacre stars legendary stand-up comedian and actor Jackie Vernon as Donald, a disgruntled construction worker whose wife's predilection for haute cuisine drives him to cannibalism. Donald unwittingly stumbles upon a solution to his two major problems in his life - his nagging wife and his lack of tasty meals - when, one night, he bludgeons his better half to death with a pepper grinder in a drunken rage. Thinking on his feet, Donald dismembers the body and sets about microwaving the remains, which turn out to be rather delicious. Trouble is, now he's got a taste for human flesh that needs satisfying... Eschewing all notions of good taste, Wayne Berwick's Microwave Massacre is a deliciously depraved exercise in political incorrectness that has gone on to gain a cult following thanks to a characteristically deadpan performance from lead Vernon, who delivers such choice lines as "I'm so hungry I could eat a whore". Vegetarians need not apply!

  Now I must warn you, the cover of the old DVD release touted this film as "The worst horror movie ever made".   So going into this film, I was kind of expecting a "so bad, it's good" type of experience.  Well, I am proud to say that is exactly what I got.   I would definitely not consider this the worst horror movie ever made, I have seen far worse for sure!  That being said, it was pretty bad over all, but it was also extremely fun and  full of character. The dialog is pretty cheesy, and the blood/gore is pretty fake looking, but that is all part of the charm that this film displays. 

The film reminded me of a cross between a Troma film and a Herschell Gordon Lewis film.  If you are fans of those type of movies, you will love this one.   This movie was so much fun, I definitely see myself watching it again in the near future.  This is a must have for cheesy B-grade (or maybe even C-grade) horror!   

 MICROWAVE MASSACRE will be available on 8/16 and will contain the following special features:

*  Brand new 2K restoration of the original camera negative
*  High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations
*  Original Mono audio (uncompressed PCM on the Blu-ray)
*  Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
*  Brand new audio commentary with writer-producer Craig Muckler moderated by Mike Tristano
*  Brand new making-of featurette including interviews with Muckler, director Wayne Berwick and actor Loren Schein
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork to be revealed
*  First pressing only: fully-illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by Nightmare USA author Stephen Thrower


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

 

Blu-ray Review: THE STUFF (1985)

THE STUFF
Written & Directed by  Larry Cohen
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  There are quite a few horror films I remember fondly from my childhood, and THE STUFF is one of those for sure!  The film came out when I was 9 years old, but I probably didn't see it until a few years after that.  I remember seeing it at a sleepover at a kid's house who had HBO!  That was a big deal back then, as not as many homes had HBO as they do today.   THE STUFF was coming on and we all quietly gathered around to watch it, knowing we would get in trouble if his parents came out of their room for any reason and saw us.  Luckily they didn't, so I got to see the entire film, and luckily Arrow Video has released this classic on a beautiful Blu-ray edition so I can enjoy it for years to come, and even introduce my kids to it someday!  Here is the basic plot if you're not familiar with the film courtesy of the MVD website:

  Are you eating it ...or is it eating you? The Stuff is the new dessert taking supermarket shelves by storm. It's delicious, low in calories and - better still - doesn't stain the family carpet... What's not to like?! Well, for a start it has a life of its own, and we're not talking friendly live bacteria... Young Jason seems to be the only one who doesn't love The Stuff - in fact he won't go anywhere near it, after having seen the pudding crawling around the fridge one night. What's more, everyone who eats The Stuff has started acting really weird... Now, teaming up with wise-cracking industrial saboteur "Mo", Jason must put a stop to The Stuff and the organization behind it or face a gooey, gloopy demise. Coming courtesy of horror auteur Larry Cohen (director of the It's Alive series and scribe behind the Maniac Cop trilogy), The Stuff is a titillating treat for the taste-buds which blends elements of films such as Street Trash with the straight-up B-movie flavor of The Blob. So grab a spoon and dig on into The Stuff - the taste that delivers... much more than you bargained for!

  This is one of my favorite horror films for sure.  It might be considered toward the cheesy side by todays standards, but it still holds up pretty good overall.  The concept is very cool, and pretty original I believe.    While the acting is pretty bad overall, the movie more than makes up for that with the awesome story line (albeit with a few plot holes) and some great effects.   

  One scene in particular reminded me a lot of 1982's THE THING.  A man's head (played by the great Garrett Morris) has his head stretched and ripped open by The Stuff.  Being from the 80's, the film is all practical effects which is always a plus.   80's horror films have such a unique quality to them, it's hard to put my finger on, but you know them when you see them.  This is as perfect example of a great 80's horror film and one every horror fan needs to have in their collection!

  As always, Arrow Video has done a remarkable job with both the restoration and extras of the film, as well as the amazing packaging of the film.  This Blu-ray is available now and contains the following Special Features:

*  New High Definition restoration of the film from a brand new 2K scan of the original camera negative
*  Original stereo 1.0 uncompressed PCM Mono audio
*  Optional English SDH subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
*  "Can't Get Enough of The Stuff: Making Larry Cohen's Classic Creature Feature" - Documentary featuring Larry Cohen, producer Paul Kurta, actress Andrea Marcovicci, Steve Neill (mechanical makeup effects) and Kim Newman
*  Introduction and trailer commentary by director and The Stuff fan Darren Bousman (Saw II, Saw III)
*  Original Trailer
*  Reversible sleeve with original and newly commissioned artwork by Gary Pullin
*  Collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film by Joel Harley, illustrated with original stills and promotional materials


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