4K Ultra HD Review: ALICE, SWEET ALICE (1976)

 ALICE, SWEET ALICE

Directed by:  Alfred Sole

Distributed by:  Arrow Video / MVD Entertainment

 I love an old classic horror film.  I love slasher films.  I really love old classic slasher films that I have never seen before.   That's right, I am confessing that I call myself a horror movie buff, but I have never seen the 1976 film, ALICE, SWEET ALICE.   I have heard of it forever, but for some reason just had never sat down to watch it.  Well, that changed now with Arrow Video's new 4K UHD edition that just came out this week! 

Here is the plot synopsis from the Arrow Films website:

 A young Brooke Shields meets an untimely end in this religious-themed proto slasher par excellence from director Alfred Sole.

 On the day of her first communion, young Karen (Brooke Shields) is savagely murdered by an unknown assailant in a yellow rain mac and creepy translucent mask. But the nightmare is far from over - as the knife-wielding maniac strikes again and again, Karen's bereaved parents are forced to confront the possibility that Karen's wayward sister Alice might be the one behind the mask.

 Bearing influences from the likes of Hitchcock, the then-booming Italian giallo film and more specifically, Nicolas Roeg's Don't Look Now, Alice, Sweet Alice is an absolutely essential - if often overlooked - entry in the canon of 1970s American horror.

 This is a unique film, as it feels like a perfect blend of slasher and giallo films.   It was originally titled COMMUNION, but released theatrically as ALICE, SWEET ALICE.  It was then re-released under the new title, HOLY TERROR to play on the fact that new star Brooke Shields was in the film.   In fact, they even changed the opening credits to give her top billing, even though she was only in the film for about the first 10 minutes!    There is a special feature on this release that shows all three openings on split screen at the same time to compare, which was very interesting. 

 ALICE, SWEET ALICE was more than just a slasher film, as in most slashers you know who is doing the killing.  This movie was a great mystery as well, as we did not know who the killer was until it was reveled.  At least, I didn't figure it until it was reveled, which came as quite a shock to me.  I had a list of 2 or three people I thought it was, but I was very wrong!    

  If you are a fan of Arrow Video, you know that they are one of the best physical media companies around.   They have always been known for great releases with tons of great special features.  This release is no different, and this new 4K UHD version looks and sounds amazing!  It's always so interesting to me that they can make a movie that is almost 50 years old look so crisp and clean, like it was just filmed recently.   If you are fan of slashers, giallos, or just really good murder mysteries, do yourself a favor and check out this new release of ALICE, SWEET ALICE!  

  ALICE, SWEET ALICE is available now from Arrow Video and MVD Entertainment and contains the following special features:

• Brand new 4K restoration by Arrow Films from the original camera negative
• 4K (2160p) Ultra HD presentations of three versions via seamless branching: Communion (original), Alice, Sweet Alice (theatrical) and Holy Terror (re-release)
• Original lossless mono audio
• Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
• Brand new audio commentary with Richard Harland Smith
• Archival audio commentary with co-writer/director Alfred Sole and editor M. Edward Salier
• First Communion: Alfred Sole Remembers Alice, Sweet Alice - director Alfred Sole looks back on his 1976 classic
• Alice on My Mind - a brand new interview with composer Stephen Lawrence
• In the Name of the Father
• brand new interview with actor Niles McMaster
• Sweet Memories: Dante Tomaselli on Alice, Sweet Alice - filmmaker Dante Tomaselli, cousin of Alfred Sole, discusses his longtime connection to the film
• Lost Childhood: The Locations of Alice, Sweet Alice
• a tour of the original Alice, Sweet Alice shooting locations hosted by author Michael Gingold
• Deleted scenes
• Split-screen version comparison
• Trailer and TV Spot
• Image gallery, including the original screenplay
• Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Gilles Vranckx
• Illustrated collectors booklet featuring new writing on the film by Michael Blyth

CLICK HERE to purchase the 4K UHD Limited Edition set

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: POOL PARTY MASSACRE (2017)

POOL PARTY MASSACRE
Written & Directed by:  Drew Marvick
Produced & Distributed by:  Floating Eye Films

  I have always been a fan of low budget independent horror films, but I have to admit that there are way more bad ones than there are good ones.  Every now and then, though, you'll find a diamond in the rough and POOL PARTY MASSACRE is the shiniest diamond I have seen in a long time!   This is what independent horror should be like!  Here is the basic plot of the film from the official website:

  POOL PARTY MASSACRE BEGINS AS BLAIR WINTHORPE, A SPOILED ROTTEN COLLEGE AGED DAUGHTER OF WEALTHY PARENTS, IS PLANNING A POOL PARTY FOR A FEW FRIENDS AT HER PARENTS MANSION. WITH BLAIRE DETERMINED TO HAVE A RELAXING DAY BY THE POOL, AND ALL OF HER SELF ABSORBED FRIENDS FOCUSING ON THEMSELVES, NONE OF THEM SEEM TO NOTICE THAT THERE IS AN UNKNOWN KILLER IN THE HOUSE STALKING THEM. ONE BY ONE AS PARTY GUESTS ENTER THE HOUSE TO MAKE PHONE CALLS, HAVE SEX, REFILL DRINKS OR EVEN MASTURBATE, THEY ARE BRUTALLY MURDERED BY THE MYSTERIOUS KILLER. USING VARIOUS WEAPONS FOUND IN THE GARAGE, THE FACELESS KILLER CONTINUES TO MURDER AS MANY PEOPLE AS HE CAN IN CREATIVE AND BLOODY WAYS. WHAT STARTED OUT AS A RELAXING DAY BY THE POOL, QUICKLY BECOMES THE WORST POOL PARTY EVER.

  My only complaint with this film is it's running time.   It clocked in at 79 minutes, but as fun of a time as I was having with this film, I wanted it to last much longer!  That is not really a complaint at all, of course, just a testament to how much fun this movie was!  

  You can tell this movie was made by a true horror fan.  Director Drew Marvick delivers everything you'd want in a slasher film including tons of babes, boobs, and blood...lots of blood!   The gore in this film was great, and I was happy to see all practical effects....something that is very rare these days, especially in low budget independent films such as this.    The movie is very fast paced with hardly any slow/down times.  The kills come fast and often and each one was different and unique from one another.  The killer basically just goes down the line using tools found on the workbench pegboard, replacing each one to it's correct spot after use, although quite a bit bloodier than we he took it off the pegboard!    

  The film had some humor mixed in as well, which I usually don't like in my horror films, but with this style of film it worked well.   POOL PARTY MASSACRE is Director Drew Marvick's first feature length film according to his imdb page.   If that is the case, I can not wait to see what else we get from this great talent in the future!   Way to hit a home run as soon as you step up to the plate, Mr. Marvick!   Indie horror is alive and well!

 If you are a slasher film fan, or a horror fan in general, you need to check out this classic piece of cheesy slasher fun!   The DVD and Blu-ray is available now and the Blu-ray Special Features include:

*  Director's Commentary with Drew Marvick and his Mom
*  Cast Commentary with Nick Byer, Jen Marvick, and Kristen Noel McKusick
*  Location Tour
*  Gag Reel
*  Making of Featurette


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

 

 

Blu-ray Review: THE ORPHAN KILLER (2011)

THE ORPHAN KILLER
Written & Directed by  Matt Farnsworth
Distributed by Reel Gore Releasing

  I was happy to see that the fine folks over at Reel Gore Releasing got their hands on this film.  THE ORPHAN KILLER is well deserving of a wide release, and I really can't believe it's taken this long!  The film came out back in 2011, and I actually reviewed the film way back then after getting a screener copy direct from the director Matt Farnsworth.    I watched the film a few nights ago and it was every bit as good as I remember from seeing it 6 years ago.  I went back and read the review I did back then and it was spot on.  No need to say the same thing twice, so here is my review I did of the film from back in 2011 reprinted here with just a few small changes....enjoy!

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  If you haven't run across a mention of THE ORPHAN KILLER on facebook, I would be very surprised.  I have seen many horror fans talking about this film online (esp. on facebook) and I finally got a chance to see what everyone was talking about.  THE ORPHAN KILLER has been hyped up to be a "New Horror Icon"...well, I had  my doubts to be honest, that is a huge statement to live up to.  Luckily, I was not disappointed in any way and I have to agree that THE ORPHAN KILLER is here to stay, and could someday be seen along the likes of Jason, Freddy, and Leatherface when it comes to discussions about the greatest horror movie killers. Before I go any further, here is the basic plot synopsis from imdb.com:

The Orphan Killer is a tour de force murder flick that defies classification. It goes far beyond current trends in gore and breaks open a new suffering genre of horror. Marcus Miller is a serial murderer hellbent on teaching his estranged sister Audrey what it means to have family loyalty. His lessons are taught in massive doses of vulgar and unimaginable pain. Throughout her brutal torture we learn that Marcus is not the only Miller with Killer in the bloodline as Audrey proves to be a formidable adversary.

   Ok, lets get the technical aspects out of the way first.  The film was shot very well and looked crystal clear on my Blu-ray edition of the film.  The cinematography for this film is amazing for a lower budget film such as this.  The acting in this film was excellent as well, especially that of Diane Foster who plays Audrey.   She very convincingly portrays real terror while she is in her torture scenes.   

 The film is timed perfectly, and director Matt Farnsworth packs a lot of action into the film's quick 84 minute run time.   There are never any slow or dull moments in this film.  It is non stop brutal action from the time you hit play until the time the credits role.  The back story of the killer is explained nicely through a series of flashbacks to when Marcus and Audrey were kids in the orphanage. This was a cool way to see why Marcus is the killer he is today.

   Ok, now on to the good stuff....the plot synopsis tells you that the film "goes far beyond current trends in gore".  That my friends, is a major understatement.   The gore in this film is over the top and goes far beyond what we are used to seeing in today's "gore" films.   Some of these effects could make Tom Savini proud!  You will know what I am talking about when you see the machete to the face scene.....grisly, grotesque, and just amazingly well done.  The blood flows freely in this film, so you gore hounds will not be disappointed in any way!   
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  Well, there ya go!  I couldn't have said it better myself! Wait, nevermind!  Ha!   THE ORPHAN KILLER is available now from Reel Gore Releasing and includes the following special features:

*  BEHIND THE MURDER - Exclusive Video Diary
*  Teaser
*  Trailer
*  Music Clip
*  Slideshow


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

Blu-ray Review: HORROR HOUSE ON HIGHWAY 5 (1985)

HORROR HOUSE ON HIGHWAY 5
Written & Directed by  Richard Casey
Distributed by Vinegar Syndrome

  I love old grindhouse and exploitation type films, and HORROR HOUSE ON HIGHWAY 5 is a great example of this type of film.  The film is not without it's flaws, but it was very enjoyable to me.   Here is the basic plot from the Vinegar Syndrome website:

  A mysterious killer, wearing a Nixon mask, terrorizes and murders a young couple. A professor assigns his students a project investigating the strange events connected to a possibly dead Nazi scientist, Dr. Fredrick Bartholomew. The doctor's assistant kidnaps students, holding them hostage and torturing them. Meanwhile, Nixon stalks the night!

 Ha!  If that plot synopsis sounds confusing, it's because it is.  Let's get the few negative things out of the way.  The plot is kind of all over the place in this film, but that doesn't take too much away from the enjoyment of the film in my opinion.   The acting is downright atrocious...and that does take a little bit away from the film, unfortunately.

  Now to the good stuff, which is the most important part of any horror film....the kills.  While overall pretty tame by today's standards, there were a couple of kills that were very well done.  The main one was the metal garden rake to the guys head.  This is a great effect that looked extremely realistic.  The films also has a nice grindhouse vibe to it, as well as a slasher and almost Giallo feel to it in some parts.  In other parts, it's more of a capture/torture type film. Hey, as I stated before, the movie is a mess plot wise!  Ha! All this gives it a very unique and fun character, though.

  While the movie is far from perfect.....and I mean extremely far, it is still fun film and worth a watch in my opinion.

  HORROR HOUSE ON HIGHWAY 5 is available now on a Limited Edition Blu-ray/DVD combo  (only 3,000 units made) from Vinegar Syndrome.  Special Features include the following:

*  All extras on both formats
*  Region free Blu-ray and DVD combo pack
*  Scanned and restored in 2k from 16mm archival elements
*  “Return to Horror House on Highway 5” – making of featurette
*  Commentary track with director Richard Casey
*  “Beach Party with Vom” – music video directed by Richard Casey (the impetus for Horror House on Highway 5)
*  Alternate full frame presentation of Horror House on Highway 5
*  Reversible cover artwork by Kevin Thomas


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

 

Help support the feature length KLAGGER movie!

 
 Some of you may remember the KLAGGER short film from a few years back.  Well, the team behind that want to bring KLAGGER to us as a new feature length film!!   In order to do this, though, they need our help!   

  There is a KLAGGER Kickstarter page where you can make a contribution to help support this film.   In doing so, you will be treated to some excellent perks, including digital codes of the film, DVDs of the feature film and short film, screen used props, and the always awesome perk of having your name in the closing credits of the film!

  Here is some more info about this project from the KLAGGER Kickstarter page:

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  Our short film, KLAGGER became a film festival and horror convention favorite since it's first screening at the Oklahoma Horror Film Festival. With your help, we are expanding the success of KLAGGER into a feature-length movie to be filmed in 2017. Many individuals, both public and private will help our monster terrify the world when KLAGGER is released in theatres, VOD, Bluray and Netflix! This Kickstarter Campaign represents YOU GUYS, the social media horror fans that want to see the kind of well-made, KILLER HORROR FILMS we all love!  

  Our specific Kickstarter goal is $15,964.00 Here's the breakdown -

  KLAGGER tells the story of Joseph Klagger, a maintenance worker who is killed in a boiler explosion back in 1977. After the accident, his body was never found and the factory became a shuttered tomb. Years later, a demolition crew arrives to implode the building with explosives and awakens KLAGGER from the dead!

The film will be a serious, horror/drama combining a plot driven story with strong performances and lots of bloody, monster-type action. Produced in Abilene, Texas under the banner of CANDON FILMS which represents the Crow Brothers - Casey and Gene.

  So, how does your Kickstarter contribution make KLAGGER move forward? First, it will assist us in securing our principal location which is a decommissioned power plant owned by American Electric Power. You saw it in the concept trailer. This place is both haunting and awe inspiring! It not only serves as KLAGGER'S final resting place but will also have sets constructed inside so that other scenes can be filmed there - just like a Hollywood soundstage!

  Next is special effects. This movie has many scenes that involve the actions of a supernatural creature and he has to look amazing! To achieve that , we are approaching the task with a combination of 90% practical F/X provided by makeup genius Chris Richard Hanson and 10% CGI elements. Your contribution covers the time and materials required to make KLAGGER terrifyingly realistic! Our Kickstarter incentives provide an opportunity for a serious horror fan to own the KLAGGER head and arm piece actually worn by actor John Harlan!

  The final portion will go toward hiring a casting director who can provide the kind of contacts an independent production like ours needs to bring in really good actors as well as insurance and attorney fees. 

  The grand total is $15,964 If additional funds are contributed which exceed the goal they will be used for travel expenses to film festivals and conventions where you can meet KLAGGER face-to-face!

CLICK HERE to help support the KLAGGER feature length film

 

Blu-ray Review: MASKS (2011)

MASKS
Written & Directed by  Andreas Marschall
Distributed by  Reelgore Releasing / CAV Distribution

  I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that Andreas Marschall's MASKS is one of the best horror movies you have never heard of.   I know I had never heard of it, so I assumed it was a brand new film.  Turns out, it was made back in 2011 but just now getting U.S. distribution thanks to the awesome new extreme genre label, ReelGore Releasing.   Here is the basic plot of the film from the ReelGore website:

  Stella longs to be an actress. When she is accepted to a private school in Berlin, her dream seems to come true. But there is something wrong with the “Matteusz Gdula-Institute”. In the seventies, the school´s founder, Matteusz Gdula, practiced a learning style that promised to let students shine by driving them to their mental limits. In the end his method was banned, as mysterious deaths occurred during his lessons and Gdula committed suicide.At night, Stella hears eerie sounds in the corridors of the school. A fellow student disappears. Stella suspects that behind the closed door to the abandoned, forbidden wing of the school lurks a bloody secret.
A secret that kills the students...

  I had no clue what to expect going into this film, but what I got was a an amazing horror film.  Part slasher, part psychological thriller, part giallo, and part arthouse film all rolled up into one very entertaining movie.  

  A few things really stood out for me, the first one being the music used in this film.  The film has a very haunting theme that plays at many times throughout the film.   The theme is amazing and is a perfect, creepy fit for this film.  It's not often that I really pay attention to the music in horror films, but this one demands your attention for sure.  

  Another thing that stood out was the kills/gore.   I have seen tons of horror films and not many make me jump or cringe anymore, but this film made me do both, and at one particular kill, made me do both at the same time.  I actually let out a yell during the first kill that seemed to come out of nowhere and really caught me off guard!

  I also picked up on some nods or inspiration from other famous films/directors, most notably Dario Argento and the film SUSPIRIA.   The acting school here reminded me a lot of the ballet school from SUSPIRIA, both are run by some creepy women and both hold secrets beyond the walls of the schools.   Also, Argento's use of color and color schemes was on display here in full force...and done quite well.    

  This movie was extremely suspenseful, and I am putting this among my top films I have seen this year.   Give it a watch and let me know what you think.     The Blu-ray/DVD/CD combo pack is available now from ReelGore Releasing and contains the following special features:


*  EXCLUSIVE ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK CD
*  BEHIND THE SCENES
*  DELETED SCENES
*  MUSIC VIDEO CLIP
*  TRAILER & SLIDESHOW


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

Blu-ray Review: THE ZERO BOYS (1986)

THE ZERO BOYS
Directed by  Nico Mastorakis
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

  If you recognize the name of Director Nico Mastorakis, it's probably from his infamous 1976 film, ISLAND OF DEATH.     That was the only film I had ever seen of his until watching this new release from Arrow Films titled, THE ZERO BOYS.   While not as wild and depraved as ISLAND OF DEATH, it is a great film by this legendary director.  Here is the basic plot from the MVD website:

   From cult director Nico Mastorakis, the man behind such eclectic offerings as the controversial Island of Death and the Oliver Reed-starring actioner Hired to Kill, comes The Zero Boys - the genre-bending '80s classic with gruesome sequences that anticipate the torture porn horrors of Hostel and Saw. For a group of young friends, a weekend of survival games in the wilderness turns into a genuine battle of life and death when one of their number turns up dead. Finding themselves hunted by a bloodthirsty band of maniacs intent on slaughtering them one-by-one, the self-styled "Zero Boys" must now play their war games for real. Starring Kelli Maroney (Night of the Comet, Chopping Mall) and featuring an early score from the legendary Hans Zimmer (Inception, The Dark Knight Trilogy), The Zero Boys mixes action, survival and all-out slasher movie elements in a thrilling horror yarn that falls somewhere between Friday the 13th and Deliverance.

  I had never even heard of this movie before I got it for review.   This really surprises me, as I was huge into horror movies as a kid, and this came out when I was 10 years old...I should have seen this one.  Somehow, this one slipped past me.  Luckily, this film holds up 30 years later!   This was an extremely fun film which started out pretty silly with all the paintball stuff, but transformed into an action packed slasher film.

  One thing I noticed multiple times throughout the film was the amazing camera shot and cinematography.   One scene in particular made me say "Wow!" out loud and demanded a rewind to see it again.  This is a scene when one of the girls is in the car and looks out and sees the killer for the first time.  He is standing there holding a knife  and all you can see is his silhouette in front of the dark blue of the night sky.   This scene can be seen briefly in the trailer below, but looks so much better on the Blu-ray of the film.

  Another thing I noticed about this film was how much ahead of it's time it was.  There is part of the film where the guys find a video camera set up in the barn pointed at an empty chair.  Later they find a TV which is broadcasting what is happening in the barn through the video camera setup.   This was a very unique twist to the film and reminded me of something you'd see in more modern horror films.

  As always, Arrow Video has done an amazing job with this release.  Their releases are always packed full of great special features and this one is no different.   THE ZERO BOYS is available now on Arrow Blu-ray/DVD combo from MVD Entertainment and contains the following special features:

*  Brand new 2K restoration of the film, approved by writer-director Nico Mastorakis
*  High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations
*  Original Stereo audio (uncompressed PCM on the Blu-ray)
*  Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
*  Audio Commentary with star Kelli Maroney, moderated by Shock Till You Drop’s Chris Alexander
*  Nico Mastorakis on… Nico Mastorakis – brand new interview with Mastorakis on the making of The Zero Boys
*  Brand new interview with star Kelli Maroney
*  Brand new interview with star Nicole Rio
*  Original Theatrical Trailer
*  Stills Gallery
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Graham Humphreys
*  Fully-illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing by critic James Oliver


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

 

 

Check out the trailer for FUN WITH HACKLEY: AXE MURDERER!

  Take a look at the hilarious trailer for the upcoming horror/comedy, FUN WITH HACKLEY:  AXE MURDERER!   Here is the plot synopsis from the film's official website:

  Since 1980, Hackley has personified fear. This prolific masked serial killer has axed his way through hundreds during his reign of terror. He doesn’t kill because he’s crazy.  It’s just his job.

 Hackley is one of the many killers employed at Revelation Killing Solutions! The third most profitable corporation in the growing industry! Hackley is the longest tenured team member in the “Slashers” division, but has lost the enthusiasm he once had for the job.

“Fun With Hackley” is a comedy feature film that chronicles the adventures of Hackley as he stumbles at the office and rethinks his life, love and career.

 

  This looks like it is going to be a very fun film!  The film was written by Garrett Hargrove and directed by Tim Sanders.   Check out the film's official website to keep up to date with info and updates on when/where you can see the film!

www.funwithhackley.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blu-ray Review: KILD.TV (2016)

KILD TV
Directed by  William Collins
Written by Channing Whitaker

  Here is a film a lot of you probably know nothing about.  It's a great, low budget, slasher flick called KILD TV about a local horror show where the murder is real!   Here is the basic plot synopsis:

  Ten years after a series of unsolved serial killings, a determined journalist cracks the case and prepares an expose for air, all the while keeping his secret that the twisted killer now works in his own station. As he covertly prepares, a skeleton crew of the local TV station begins to air their live, late-night horror show, featuring a ghoulish host named Dr. Perseco.

  Unbeknownst to all, one crew member has already been viciously murdered and her body hidden. A violent thunderstorm rolls in as two more of the crew and the journalist disappear.
  The TV show continues with over-the-top macabre antics and Perseco’s dark humor until the mutilated body of one of the missing is discovered. The midnight crew is now in a full panic and frantically tries to flee the building, only to find all lines of escape and communication sabotaged. They are trapped inside with the killer somewhere in the station!
  Thunder strikes and the lights go off, leaving only emergency power available, and one hope for rescue; they must broadcast or die. They plea for help on the air, but the plan falls on deaf ears when viewers believe it’s just a hoax. No help is coming. Soon, more lifeless, brutally slain bodies turn up and the pressure mounts to identify the killer before another is found slaughtered.
  As the mystery begins to unravel, it becomes clear that the killer is among them.  Friends and colleagues begin distrusting each other, and, with every step inching ever closer to discovering the killer, another body falls.

  I love finding movies that I have never heard of and have read nothing about.  I like being able to go into a film without any prior knowledge and without anyone having any preconceived opinions of a film based on any reviews I might have seen or heard.   While I had not read anything about this film, after viewing it I think it is just a matter of time before we all start hearing a lot more about this film.

  I loved the concept of this film, with a local horror movie show coming under attack by a killer and their only means for help was broadcasting to ask viewers to call the police.  Most everyone watching assumes it is fake, and just part of the show.   That is terrifying to me to think that could be happening and people are just sitting on their couch laughing and having a good time while people are actually dying!  I know...it's just a movie, but that concept is creepy as hell!

  The movie is very well done, with everyone turning in a great acting performance.   Dr. Perseco played by actor D.C. Douglas  was especially good.  He played a wonderful cable horror host, and it almost makes me sad that he is not a real horror host.  He would be a great one for sure!    The effects are also pretty good in this film, with some great gore including a nasty head bashed in with a computer screen!   Also, to go along with all this doom and despair, their is some humor throughout the film, although some of it is pretty dark humor.  I did literally laugh out load at one point, though, so well done to the filmmakers for throwing in some pretty good humor.

  I really liked this film.  KILD TV is not a huge budget, blockbuster type of film for sure.  It's a low budget independent film, but it is just as enjoyable as some of the big studio horror films I have seen lately. 

  The film is being self-distributed by the filmmakers, so make sure to grab a copy today and support indie filmmaking!  Visit http://www.kildmovie.com./ to purchase a limited edition, unrated and uncut version of the film on DVD or Blu-ray.  You can also order autographed copies of the film! 


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

Blu-ray Review; THE MUTILATOR (1984)

THE MUTILATOR
Directed by  Buddy Cooper, John Douglass
Distributed by Arrow Video / MVD Entertainment Group

  As many of you know, growing up as a child in the 1980's, I am a huge fan of 80's slasher films.   I was lucky to grow up during the best years of the slasher genre and got a chance to watch many of these great films from the 5 for $5 movie rental place which was just a bike ride away from my house.  While I have seen most of these classic 80's slashers, I still find from time to time a film I have always heard of, but never have seen.   THE MUTILATOR is one of those films.  I'm not sure how, but somehow I always missed this one growing up.   Thankfully I have remedied that now, thanks to the amazing folks at Arrow Video and MVD Distribution.   Here is the basic plot of film from the MVD website:

  BY SWORD. BY PICK. BY AXE. BYE BYE. Although the slasher film was in decline by the mid-1980s, there were still some grisly delights to be had... and they don't come much grislier than writer-director Buddy Cooper's sickening stalk-and-slash classic The Mutilator! When Ed receives a message from his father asking him to go and lock up the family's beach condo for the winter, it seems like the perfect excuse for an alcohol-fuelled few days away with his friends. After all, his dad has forgiven him for accidentally blowing mom away with a shotgun several years ago... hasn't he? But no sooner are the teens on the island than they find themselves stalked by a figure with an axe (and a hook, and an onboard motor) to grind... Originally entitled Fall Break (watch out for the incongruous theme song of the same name!), The Mutilator has earned a reputation amongst horror fans as one of the 'holy grails' of 80s splatter mayhem due to its highly inventive (and not to say, decidedly gruesome) kill sequences, courtesy of FX wizard Mark Shostrom (Videodrome, Evil Dead II). Finally making its long-awaited bow in High-Definition, The Mutilator has returned to terrorize a whole new generation of horror fans!

  Now the first thing you might notice when you watch this film is the acting.  I have to admit it is pretty atrocious.  Even by bad 80's horror movie acting standards!  Ha!  But, I don't think that will keep you from enjoying this film by any means.  It has too much going for it.  We all know what we are here for and that is the great kills and gore, so I'm happy to say that this film delivers on both of those aspects.  One thing I love about 80's films are the practical gore effects.  Back then there was no choice of practical vs. CG effects,  which is an excellent thing in my opinion.  Nothing beats the look of practical effects, which is one reason these old films always hold up better to me than newer films with flimsy CG blood and gore.

  Arrow Video always does a spectacular job with their presentations, both with the films themselves and with the Blu-ray packaging.   The brand new 2K restoration looks amazing for such an old film.   Like most all of Arrow releases, THE MUTILATOR comes with reversible cover art and a booklet telling you all about the film.  It really doesn't get any better than Arrow Video releases in my opinion....to me they have set the bar for other distribution companies to aim for.

THE MUTILATOR is available now on Blu-ray from Arrow Video and MVD Distribution and as always, Arrow Video has loaded down this release with tons of amazing special features including the following:

*  Brand new 2K restoration of the unrated version from original vault materials
*  High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations
*  Original mono 1.0 audio (uncompressed PCM on the Blu-ray
*  Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
*  Introduction to the film with writer-director Buddy Cooper and assistant special make-up effects artist/assistant editor Edmund Ferrell
*  Audio Commentary with Cooper, Ferrell, co-director John Douglass and star Matt Mitler
*  Audio Commentary with Buddy Cooper and star Ruth Martinez Tutterow
*  Fall Breakers: The Story of The Mutilator - brand new feature-length documentary on the making of the splatter classic featuring interviews with Cooper, Douglass, Ferrell, Mitler, actors Bill Hitchcock, Jack Chatham and more
*  Mutilator Memories - special make-up effects artist Mark Shostrom looks back at one of his earliest projects
*  Tunes for the Dunes - composer Michael Minard reveals how The Mutilator's unique score was created
*  Behind-the-Scenes Reel
*  Screen Tests
*  Alternate Opening Titles
*  Trailers and TV Spots
*  'Fall Break' Theme Song (Original and Instrumental Versions)
*  Opening Sequence Storyboards
*  Motion Stills Gallery
*  Original Fall Break Screenplay (BD/DVD-ROM content)
*  Reversible sleeve featuring two original artworks


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

 

 

Blu-ray Review: BLOOD RAGE (1987)

BLOOD RAGE
Directed by:  John Grissmer
Distributed by Arrow Video / MVD Entertainment Group

 It looks like I am continuing to find hidden horror gems from the 1980's that I somehow missed.   The latest is the amazing Arrow Video release of BLOOD RAGE.  This is another film that I have always heard of, but had never seen.  After finally getting a chance to see it, I am upset that it took me this long to see it.   This is a classic in every sense of the word.   For those unfamiliar, here is the basic plot courtesy of the MVD website:

  IT'S NOT CRANBERRY SAUCE! What do you get if you combine Thanksgiving, American TV star Louise Lasser (Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman), killer 80s synths and some of the most gruesome special effects in all of slasher history courtesy of Ed (Terminator 2) French. Why, it's Blood Rage of course! Todd and Terry seem like sweet kids - that is, until one of them takes an axe to face of a fellow patron at the local drive-in. Todd is blamed for the bloody crime and institutionalised, whilst twin brother Terry goes free. Ten years later and, as the family gathers around the table for a Thanksgiving meal, the news comes in that Todd has escaped - and he's heading their way. But has the killer twin in fact been in their midst all along? One thing's for sure, there WILL be blood... Filmed in 1983 at the tail-end of the slasher golden era but not released until 1987, Blood Rage (also re-cut and released to theatres as Nightmare at Shadow Woods) has been lovingly restored from the original vault materials for its first ever appearance on Blu-ray and DVD. Happy Thankskilling!

  "This Thanksgiving, it's not cranberry sauce"!  Ha!  What a great tagline, and yes, an actual line from the film.   I have a feeling a lot of people might have missed seeing this one, and hopefully with this new release that can be corrected.  This is definitely a film that any horror fan needs to see.  The story is very interesting with the twin aspect, as no one knows for sure who they are dealing with once the commotion starts.  The acting is pretty good, although pretty cheesy at some points.  Also, there is no getting around this film being from the 1980's with the clothes and big hair!  That is part of the film's character, though.

  There were tons of slasher films that came out in the 1980's, but what sets this one apart from all the others is the amazing effects and gore.   The effects were done by genre vet Ed French  and they are truly amazing.   You gotta love practical effects, and BLOOD RAGE is full of them, including a severed hand, severed head, split open head, and a completely chopped up person!  The gore is over the top in this film and while most slashers cut away when they go in for the kill, this one does not.  

  This film instantly goes on my top horror films of all time.  I can't say enough good things about BLOOD RAGE.  Get yourself a copy of this film asap!  You will not be disappointed.

  BLOOD RAGE is available now on Arrow Video in a awesome 3-disc set and contains the following special features:

3-DISC DIRECTOR-APPROVED LIMITED EDITION CONTENTS
- Three versions of the film – Blood Rage, the original home video version, Nightmare at Shadow Woods, the theatrical re-cut, and an alternate “composite” cut combining footage from both versions
- Original Stereo 2.0 sound (Uncompressed PCM on the Blu-ray)
- Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
- Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Marc Schoenbach
- Fully-illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by Joseph A. Ziemba, author of BLEEDING SKULL! A 1980s Trash-Horror Odyssey

BLU-RAY DISC 1 & DVD – BLOOD RAGE
- Brand new 2K restoration of the “hard” home video version, transferred from the camera negative and featuring the original title card Slasher
- Audio commentary with director John Grissmer
- Both Sides of the Camera – an interview with producer/actress Marianne Kanter
- Double Jeopardy – an interview with actor Mark Soper
- Jeez, Louise! – an interview with actress Louise Lasser
- Man Behind the Mayhem – an interview with special make-up effects creator Ed French
- Three Minutes with Ted Raimi – an interview with actor Ted Raimi
- Return to Shadow Woods – featurette revisiting the original locations in Jacksonville, Florida
- Alternate opening titles
- Motion still gallery featuring rare behind-the-scenes make-up photos

BLU-RAY DISC 2 – NIGHTMARE AT SHADOW WOODS [LIMITED EDITION EXCLUSIVE]
- Nightmare at Shadow Woods – the re-edited 1987 theatrical cut featuring footage not seen in the Blood Rage home video version
- Alternate composite cut of the feature combining footage from the home video and theatrical versions
- Never-before-seen outtakes


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

Blu-ray Review: BLOODY BIRTHDAY (1981)

BLOODY BIRTHDAY
Directed by Ed Hunt
Distributed by CAV Distribution / Severin Films

  It has always been my opinion that the greatest decade of horror films is the 1980's.  So many great movies came out during this time, and I feel like I have seen most of the more popular ones.  Somehow along the way, I missed this one, though.  The film is BLOODY BIRTHDAY and it is by far one of the best horror films I have watched in quite some time.  Here is the basic plot synopsis courtesy of the Severin Films website:

  Get ready for the rarely seen slasher classic from the ’80s that may also be the most disturbing ‘killer kids’ movies in grindhouse history: Three babies are simultaneously born in the same hospital at the peak of a full solar eclipse. Ten years later, these adorable youngsters suddenly begin a kiddie killing spree of stranglings, shootings, stabbings, beatings and beyond. Can the town’s grown-ups stop these pint-sized serial killers before their blood-soaked birthday bash? K.C. Martel (E.T., Growing Pains), Joe Penny (Jake And The Fat Man), Michael Dudikoff (American Ninja), screen legends Susan Strasberg and Jose Ferrer, and MTV vixen Julie Brown – whose nude bedroom dance remains a landmark of celebrity skin – star in this still-controversial shocker from director Ed Hunt (The Brain, Diary Of A Sinner), now featuring an all-new HD transfer from the original vault elements.

  I love finding gems like this one that I have never seen before.  This is definitely a very unique slasher film, as the killer(s) is a group of 3 young kids.   The kids look sweet and innocent enough, but they are anything but that.   They are a vile group of killers who have no problem with killing off the adults in town, including their own parents and siblings!  Slasher films are usually disturbing to some extent, but that is greatly increased when it is kids doing the killing. 
 
   This is classic 80's horror at it's finest. If you have not seen BLOODY BIRTHDAY,  I suggest you get buy the DVD or Blu-ray asap and give it a watch.  I would honestly put this film in my top 20 horror films of all time!

  BLOODY BIRTHDAY is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Severin Films and contains the following special features:

– Audio Interview With Director Ed Hunt
– Don’t Eat That Cake! Interview With Star Lori Lethin
– A Brief History Of Slasher Films Featurette
– Severin Trailers


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

 

 

DVD Review: BLOOD SLAUGHTER MASSACRE (2013)

BLOOD SLAUGHTER MASSACRE 
Directed by  Manny Serrano
Distributed by Wild Eye Releasing / MVD Entertainment

  Let me start this review by saying whoever did the cover art for this DVD release is brilliant.  The cover art is very simple, clean design with a depiction of a very creepy looking killer holding a huge bloody knife complete with the reflection of his latest screaming victim.  Kudos to the art department!  Now if only the movie would have been as good as that cover makes it look!  
  Before I go any further, here is the basic plot synopsis from the MVD website:

  Ten years ago, the sleepy suburb of Havenwood was plagued by a string of unsolved murders, by a masked maniac remembered only as The Ripper. Now a new series of killings has begun, and teenagers are turning up dead everywhere. But can The Ripper be stopped this time around? Blood Slaughter Massacre is an incredible homage to slasher movie nostalgia, and featuring a killer 80's style soundtrack.

  First off, with a name like BLOOD SLAUGHTER MASSACRE, you would think you were getting a parody of slasher flicks.  That title just screams sarcasm...but alas, what is presented is a straight, serious slasher flick.  The acting is pretty awful, as is the production quality of the film.   In some spots it looks like a home video camera recorded it and then in other spots it goes in and out of focus.
One thing this movie does have going for it are the kills, including some very gory scenes such as a shower stabbing and a woman getting chainsawed in half!  But...just some good kills don't make the movie a good movie by any means.   The cons definitely outweighed the pros in my opinion on this one.    One major flaw I thought was the editing and running time.  At 113 minutes, I thought there were many times of slow placing and unnecessary dialog.  If they would have tightened this up to a good 'ol 80-90 minutes, I think the film could have been a lot better.

 BLOOD SLAUGHTER MASSACRE is available now on DVD from Wild Eye Releasing and MVD Entertainment.  It contains the following special features:

*  Feature length commentary with Manny Serrano (Director/Writer/Editor), Lindsay Serrano (Producer/A.D./Head of SFX) and Louie Cortes (Writer/Cinematography).
*  Over 12 minutes of deleted scenes
*  Extended scenes
*  A VHS rip of the BSM promo tape, containing the three faux-trailers the film is based upon
*  Demons of the Night - Music Video by Midnight Flashback, with footage from the film
*  Behind-the-scenes featurette
*  The Ripper Action Figure Toy Commercial, starring Johnny Dickie (Slaughter Tales)


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