Blu-Ray Review: HIGHWAY TO HELL (1990)

HIGHWAY TO HELL

Directed by:  Bret McCormick

Distributed by:  Visual Vengeance / Wild Eye Releasing / MVD Distribution

  The only HIGHWAY TO HELL film I had ever heard of was the 1991 horror/dark comedy film from director Ate De Jong.    Look up the film and I'm sure you'll recognize the iconic cover art that was in every Blockbuster and Mom and Pop video store back in the 1990's.   

  When this HIGHWAY TO HELL arrived for my review, I assumed it was that movie with different cover art.   That is not the case.  This is actually a completely different film that came out one year before in 1990.  This is more of an exploitation road adventure movie, and as bad as it was, it was still quite a fun watch!   Here is the basic plot synopsis from the MVD website:

Convicted mass-murderer Toby Gilmore has escaped from prison, and the open desert becomes his playground for sadism and destruction. Determined to stop him after failing to execute him years earlier, officer Earl Dent (Richard Harrison) sets out on a relentless pursuit that turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse. But Gilmore has taken a hostage--Fran Tucker, a young woman caught in the wrong place at the worst possible time. As the chase hurtles across backroads and wastelands, Dent closes in, each mile bringing he and Gilmore closer to an explosive reckoning on the highway to hell.

Shot in rural Texas, Highway to Hell stands as a prime example of the regional, low-budget filmmaking that fueled America's video boom of the 1980s and '90s. Originally released on VHS via Rae Don Home Video, the film showcases director Bret McCormick (The Abomination, Repligator), a key figure in the Texas exploitation underground, whose raw energy and ingenuity turn poverty row resources into a fast-paced, sun-baked thriller that captures the true spirit and grit of independent genre cinema.

 This is a very low budget film and it shows.  The acting is not great, the effects are pretty bad, but like I mentioned before, this was still a lot of fun to watch.   It might be a case of laughing AT the film versus laughing WITH the film, though, as I assume this was supposed to be a serious film at the time.   The film follows our killer, Toby Gilmore, as he carjacks his way across country with the law on his tail.  No one is safe from Gilmore, not women or even children!  Gilmore will do anything he has to survive and not go back to prison. 

 Some laughable moments include our killer shooting a truck with one shot from a pistol and it exploding into a huge fireball.   Another is Gilmore shooting a helicopter out of the sky with his pistol, also with a huge explosion!   That pistol he carries must pack quite a punch!

 While the film might not be exceptional by any means, this physical release of the film is for sure.  Visual Vengeance spared no expense on giving this film quite the stellar release.   The film has reversible cover art and an awesome slip case.  There are tons of Special Features including the following:

* Region Free Blu-ray

* SD master from original tape elements

* Commentary with director Bret McCormick

* Director Bret McCormick interview

* Red Hot Asphalt:  actor Richard Harrison interview

* Road Trip: actress Blue Thompson interview

* Writing A Road Map to Hell:  screenwriter Gary Kennamer interview

* Actor Tom Fegan interview

* Image Gallery

* Bonus Movie: REDNECK COUNTY FEVER (1992), directed by Gary Kennamer

* REDNECK COUNTY FEVER - Commentary track with Bret McCormick and Gary Kennamer

* REDNECK COUNTY FEVER - Bret McCormick interview

* REDNECK COUNTY FEVER - Gary Kennamer interview

* Visual Vengeance trailers

* "Stick Your Own" VHS Sticker set

* Reversible sleeve featuring original VHS art

* Folded REDNECK COUNTY FEVER mini-poster

* Optional English Subtitles

* Limited Edition O-Card featuring original poster art (First Pressing Only)

CLICK HERE to watch the trailer

CLICK HERE to purchase the Blu-ray

Book Review: THE ED GEIN FILE: A PSYCHO'S CONFESSION AND CASE DOCUMENTS by John Borowski

THE ED GEIN FILE:  A PSYCHO'S CONFESSION AND CASE DOCUMENTS
Produced & Edited by  John Borowski

 I have always been a fan of True Crime, and especially stories of serial killers.  I guess they are just so far from what I consider "normal" that they fascinate me.  I just can't fathom how someone could take another person's life, let alone multiple lives.  And it's usually done with little to no remorse.  There are some crazy killers out there throughout history, but none have a story quite like that of Plainfield, Wisconsin's own Ed Gein.   

  Ed Gein was had a very bizarre fascination with his Mother, to the point of not being able to let her go once she died.  He dug up her body and kept her corpse on her bed, basically making an alter to his Mom.  He also killed a couple of other people from the small town he lived in, and desecrated numerous graves, stealing and using body parts from the deceased.   Ed's most gruesome murder was that of a lady named Bernice Worden, a local hardware store employee who was found hanging in Ed's shed, strung up like a deer that had just been killed.   After Bernice went missing, the body was eventually found at Ed's farm, along with all the other "things" he had collected.  He had organs on the stove and fridge, in preparation for consumption.  He also had lampshades and furniture made from human skin.   Ed Gein's case was so bizarre that many Hollywood films have been based (although some very loosely) on Ed Gein.  

  Now, if you want to ready more about the details and specifics on his life and crimes, there are many books out there you can find on this subject.   But...if you're already familiar with the story, then you need to pick up THE ED GEIN FILE by John Borowski to delve much deeper into the Ed Gein case.   This book is a truly amazing reference to have.   The amount of research that must have gone into this book in astounding.    The main component of the book is a transcription of the complete interrogation of Mr. Gein, complete with his confession.  It's completely eerie to actually read all of Gein's own words, I could hear them in his voice as I was reading them.    While this is the main bulk of the book, there are so many other great items in this book including the complete physical and psychological profile of Ed Gein, the official autopsy report of Bernice Worden, a copy of Gein's death certificate, multiple newspaper clippings of articles related to the Ed Gein case,  and some great illustrations and photos of Ed Gein.    You might read about some of these items in other books about Gein, but in this book you get to see the actual item itself. 
 
  THE ED GEIN FILE:  A PSYCHO'S CONFESSION AND CASE DOCUMENTS is a must have for any fans of true crime and/or the Ed Gein story.    The book is available now on Amazon.com.


CLICK HERE to purchase the book


Click the banner to visit the official website of auther/filmmaker John Borowski

DVD Review: FLOWERS (2015)

FLOWERS
Written & Directed by Phil Stevens
Distributed by Unearthed Films and MVD Visual

 If you're one of those horror fans that have been complaining that there are no good, original, new horror films coming out these days, then you have not seen FLOWERS from Director Phil Stevens.  This is a film unlike I've ever seen....it's vile and disgusting, yet beautiful at the same time.  It's probably the closest you will ever get to an gore soaked art film.   Here is the basic plot of the film courtesy of the MVD Visual website:

  Some don't understand when the roller-coaster of life stops and their life ends. Some go up and others... find themselves in Purgatory to either find redemption or to choose damnation. Where do the murder victims go when they have a chance to choose' A mind-bending, artistic ride down the road to hell. Are you willing to damn yourself or accept salvation'

  Now, I have to be honest with you....I'm not sure I understand this film 100%.  I think that is ok though, I think that leaves it open to multiple interpretations by multiple people.   From what I gather from the film, we are looking at different murder victims who are in purgatory, which in this case is a disgusting, dilapidated old house full of dangers around every corner.   The film is unique in that it features no dialog whatsoever.  What is amazing about that, is that is doesn't need any.  The films is written and acted so well we can get the story from the actresses emotions and mannerisms captured on the film.   The film does contain sound effects and an amazing score which really sets the tone of the film. Also, FLOWERS was filmed with a very drab, yellowish tone, which really helped set the mood for the film as well.

  The films starts with one woman, making her way through a bloody, gore soaked crawlspace of the house.  When she comes up  through a hole in the floor, we now see a different woman.  The film changes between all the women in the "house" very seamlessly.   While this was part of what confused me at first, I soon realized there are multiple victims here and we are seeing all of their struggles, sewn together by the fact they were all victims of the same killer.

  As mentioned before, the acting in this film is amazing.  I know some might say it's easy to act when you don't have to say anything, but I think just the opposite.  I think that is actually harder.   Trying to tell a story with no dialog means that the actors and actresses have to rely on their visuals and emotional expressions only.  All the women in this film did an amazing job, and that was definitely not an easy task from what I saw.   The set pieces were extremely vile and disgusting, and the women in this film were usually right in there with it...being covered in blood, guts, and whatever other bodily liquids and body parts there were!  

  FLOWERS is a film you need to check out soon.   It's not for the easily squeamish, as there are some very disgusting scenes, but it is a very well made film and to me is a home run for first time director Phil Stevens.  I imagine we will see great things in the horror community from Mr. Stevens in the years to come!

  FLOWERS is available now on DVD and 3-Disc Limited Edition DVD from Unearthed Films and MVD Visual.   The single disc version contains the following special features:

*  Commentary with Phil Stevens
*  Commentary with Ronnie Sortor
*  Interview with Bryant w. Lohr Sr
*  Audtion Tape with Makaria Tsapatoris
*  Behind the Scenes Stills
*  Unearthed Trailer Reel
*  Isolated FX Track

The 3-Disc Limited Edition DVD contains all the special features above, plus the following:

*  Floravision: The Making of Flowers
*  Deleted Scenes (with optional Commentary)
*  Storyboards Video Gallery (with optional commentary)
*  Kiss Me Whore Parts 1 & 2 Short Films
*  CD Soundtrack


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to purchase the  3-Disc Limited Edition DVD
CLICK HERE to purchase the Single Disc Edition

Blu-ray Review: ANGST (1983)

ANGST
Directed by:  Gerald Kargl
Distributed by Cult Epics / CAV Distributing

 Cult Epics has been putting out some wonderful films lately, and this latest release is no different.   Their latest release is the Austrian film ANGST from 1983.  Here is the basic synopsis from the CAV website:

  ANGST, photographed by legendary Oscar-winning Polish animator/experimentalist Zbig Rybczynski and scored by Krautrock synth god Klaus Schulze (Tangerine Dream), is one hell of a gorgeously stylized and shockingly visceral experience: a forgotten classic on the fringes of the slasher cycle. Erwin Leder (Das Boot, Schindler's List) plays a maniacal killer based on the real-life serial murderer Werner Kniesek. As he stalks through the bland Viennese countryside, Schulze's music pulses darkly, and Zbig's innovative "first-person" camerawork grabs you by the throat, never letting go. Angst is one film that, without any empty hyperbole, we can guarantee you'll never, ever forget.

 This is definitely one of those films that will stay with you long after you view it.  To say it's disturbing is an understatement.   The film focus on a psychopath that knows nothing more than killing.  Once he is released from prison, he can't help but continue on his killing streak.  The film is very realistic and has a very dark, disturbing feel to it.  That is a great accomplishment of the filmmakers for sure.   The acting is also very good by everyone involved, especially by Erwin Leder who plays the part of the killer.

  The camerawork is something that really sets this film apart from others like it.  The cinematography of ANGST is amazing, with some very good camera shots and setups.  These shots really let you get inside the mind of the killer as you follow directly behind him as he goes about his killings.

  I'm sure I won't be the first reviewer to compare this to the classic serial killer film, HENRY:  PORTRAIT OF A SERIAL KILLER.   This film reminded me of that film in spots, but ANGST was the better of the two films in my opinion, as it just feels more real.   Kudos to director  for this great film.  I find it very strange, and sad, that this was Director Gerald Kargl's only film!  If this was his first feature film, I would have loved to have seen more by this great filmmaker.

 ANGST is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Cult Epics and CAV Distribution.  Special Features include the following:

- New High-definition Transfer
- Optional playback with or without Prologue
- New Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Introduction by Gaspar Noé (2015)
- Featurette: Erwin Leder in Fear (2015)
- Interview with Gerald Kargl by Jorg Buttgeriet (2003)
- Interview with cinematographer Zbigniew Rybzcynski (2004)
- Audio Commentary by Gerald Kargl conducted by film critic Marcus Stiglegger
- New HD Trailer

The Blu-ray also includes the following:
- 40 Page booklet which includes Interviews with Gerald Kargl, Erwin Leder, Silvia Rabenreither, Illustrated with rare photos and Werner Kniesek original Kurier articles.
- Colectible Blu-ray Slipcase and Sleeve


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

DVD Review: SLAUGHTER DAUGHTER

SLAUGHTER DAUGHTER
Directed by Travis Campbell
Distributed by Brain Damage Films

  I haven't seen many films from Brain Damage Films, so I wasn't sure what to expect from SLAUGHTER DAUGTHER, but what I got was very well made, entertaining slasher / drama film with some excellent gore!  Here is the  basic plot of the film from the Brain Damage Films website:

After being left at the altar, Farrah has a mental break. Now she spends her time flipping through the 24 hour news cycle, and fueling her obsession with serial killer Jackson Miles. When her mother announces her upcoming wedding, Farrah seeks help from her jailed love to plot out the perfect murder

  This was a very well made film with some great acting from lead Nicola Fiore, who plays the part of Farrah. She is a beautiful actress, but can play the part of a sadistic killer perfectly.   It's hard to describe what sub-genre off a horror movie this fits into.  It is part crime film, part slasher flick, part revenge film...all rolled into one.  Gore hounds will love the large amount of blood in this film.  There are some great gore scenes including a stabbing scene that is brutally realistic.

  SLAUGHTER DAUGHTER is available now on DVD from Brain Damage Films and the DVD includes the following Special Features:

*  Original Webisodes
*  Promo Video
*  Blooper Reel
*  Deleted Scenes


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

Blu-ray Review: CURSE OF CHUCKY (2013)

  
CURSE OF CHUCKY
Directed by Don Mancini
Distributed by Universal Studios Home Entertainment

  I am a huge fan of the CHILD'S PLAY movies, especially the first two films.  The later sequels BRIDE OF CHUCKY and SEED OF CHUCKY got a little (further) far fetched and kind of cheesy.  I was so relieved as I was watching the newest installment in the CHUCKY films, CURSE OF CHUCKY, that it was a return to the original concept.  This was more of a pure horror film than the last few sequels have been.   Here is the plot of the film from the Universal Studios Home Entertainment website:

  He's back! From the filmmakers that brought you Chucky comes the terrifying return of the pint-sized doll possessed by the spirit of a notorious serial killer. When a mysterious package arrives at the house of Nica (Fiona Dourif, True Blood), she doesn't give it much thought. However, after her mother's mysterious death, Nica begins to suspect that the talking, red-haired doll her visiting niece has been playing with may be the key to the ensuing bloodshed and chaos. The return of America's favorite toy, voiced again by Brad Dourif, is unrated and full of more blood-splattered thrills and chills.

  I was sad that this film didn't get a theatrical release.  The film went direct to video, and I know that scares some people off.  Used to direct to DVD films meant that weren't good enough to be at the theater.  That is not necessarily true any more, and CURSE OF CHUCKY proves it.  This was an excellent film, and one of the better, if not the best sequel of all the CHUCKY films in my opinion.  If SEED and BRIDE both got a theatrical release, I have no clue why this one didn't.  I liked this film better than those for sure.  

  As I mentioned above, CURSE OF CHUCKY is a return to the true horror film like the first couple of films.  Sure, there is still some cheesy dialog and some hoaky Chucky one-liners, but that is part of the appeal of these films and is quite normal for horror films.  Heck, Freddy Kruegar throws out one-liners with the best of them!  Chucky may still have his wit, but he is all business in this new film.  He deliverers some major damage to his victims, resulting in some really great gore! 

 Check this one out for sure.   If you are a fan of the CHILD'S PLAY films, you will not be disappointed! 

 CURSE OF CHUCKY is available now on DVD and Blu-ray/DVD combo pack.  The DVD and Blu-ray contain the following special features:

*  Deleted Scenes
*  Gag Reel
*  Playing with Dolls:  The Making of Curse of Chucky
*  Feature Commentary with Director Don Mancini, Puppeteer Tony Gardner, and Star Fionna Dourif

The Blu-ray also contains these exclusive Special Features:

*  Living Doll:  Bringing Chucky to Life
*  Voodoo Doll:  The Chucky Legacy
*  Storyboard Comparisons


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

Check out the upcoming film, SORORITY PARTY MASSACRE!

  I stumbled across the trailer to a  new film called SORORITY PARTY MASSACRE while browsing for trailers on Youtube.  The film looks like it will be a lot of fun.   Here is the basic plot from the Highland Film Group website:


When a city detective follows a missing persons investigation to a sleepy mountain town, he finds himself protecting a group of weekend warrior sorority girls from a ruthless and brilliant serial killer.

Any movie that contains sorority girls and a serial killer is one I want to see for sure!  The film was written by Chris W. Freeman and directed by Freemand and Justin Jones.  The cast includes Richard Moll, Leslie Easterbrook, and the infamous Ron Jeremy.  I'm not sure when this movie will be released, but you can keep up to date with news and info by following the official facebook page of the film.


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
(**NSFW** - trailer contains nudity)

CLICK HERE to visit the film's facebook page