Blu-ray Review: BLACK MAMA, WHITE MAMA (1973)

BLACK MAMA, WHITE MAMA
Directed by:  Eddie Romero
Distributed by Arrow Films / MVD Entertainment Group

 Arrow Films continues to keep putting out some of the greatest releases of classic horror, exploitation, and grindhouse flicks.   One of their latest releases is BLACK MAMA, WHITE MAMA, a great exploitation film from the early 70's.  Here is a synopsis of the film courtesy of the MVD website:

  Before her iconic turn in Coffy, Pam Grier starred alongside Margaret Markov in a grindhouse spin on Stanley Kramer's The Defiant Ones, fusing the Women in Prison film with the emerging Blaxploitation movement for a riotous romp of bullets, babes and blood! Lee (Grier), a tough prostitute and Karen (Markov), a revolutionary, are admitted to a tough women's prison where almost immediately (after some playful showering that prefigures Porky's) they clash. Packed off to a maximum security prison, their transport is ambushed by Karen's guerrilla friends and the two escape into the Filipino jungle. Chained together and with differing escape plans their clash intensifies as Lee wants to retrieve a stash of stolen cash to get her off the island and Karen wants to re-join her revolutionary group. Escape isn't easy as they come up against a series of obstacles including a corrupt cop, a bounty hunter, a sadistic Drug Lord and guerrillas who threaten to turn everything upside down. Chock full of girl fights, gun battles, nudity and humour, Black Mama White Mama, which was also known as Women in Chains and Hot, Hard and Mean, lives up to all its titles as well as featuring a brilliant Sid Haig (Spider Baby, House of 1000 Corpses) as a cowboy bounty hunter and Lynn Borden (Frogs, Dirty Mary Crazy Larry) as a lesbian guard from a script co-written by Jonathan Demme (Caged Heat) and a score sampled by Quentin Tarantino for Kill Bill.

 I have to admit I've always loved the women-in-prison films from the 70's and 80's.   This film is has many elements of that type of film, along with elements of the more extreme ILSA films of the 70's.  The film is also a revenge flick, and an action flick with tons of gun fights and explosions.  Part of this film reminded me of the old Charles Bronson DEATH WISH films.  Pam Grier was excellent as the no holds barred, strong leader of the women.  She never backed down from a fight with fellow prisoners or from the many people after her and her partner once they escaped.

  A special treat for horror fans will be the appearance of genre vet, Sid Haig.   A lot of horror fans these days might only know Haig from his more recent films like HOUSE OF 1000 CORPSES, and THE DEVIL'S REJECTS.   If that's how you know him, you will hardly recognize him as Rueben the bounty hunter in this film.  He is always a great actor and brings a certain charm to any character he portrays, and this is no different.

  While not a horror film by any means, it's an exploitation/sexsploitation film at it's finest.  I highly recommend this one to all genre fans!

  BLACK MAMA, WHITE MAMA is available now from Arrow Video and MVD Entertainment and contains the following special features:

*  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
*  Commentary by filmmaker Andrew Leavold, director of The Search for Weng Weng
*  White Mama - An interview with star Margaret Markov
*  Sid’s Filipino Adventure - An interview with star Sid Haig
*  The Mad Director of Blood Island - A previously unseen archive interview with director Eddie Romero
*  Trailer
*  Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Sean Phillips


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

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, March 29th, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD's coming out tomorrow, 3/29:

*  CHERRY FALLS  [Blu-ray]
*  THE CITY OF THE DEAD  [Blu-ray]
*  FRIGHTMARE  [Blu-ray]
*  THE HATEFUL EIGHT  [Blu-ray & DVD]
*  LA PETITE MORT  [DVD]
*  MURDERS IN THE RUE MORGUE / THE DUNWICH  HORROR  [Blu-ray]
*  PIGS  [Blu-ray]
*  THE RED HOUSE  [Blu-ray]
*  SEX WORLD  [Blu-ray]

DVD Review: RIDDLE ROOM (2016)

RIDDLE ROOM
Written & Directed by  Bryan Binder
Distributed by  Breaking Glass Pictures / Vicious Circle Films

 I always enjoy when I come across a film I have never heard of that I end up really enjoying.  RIDDLE ROOM is one I knew nothing about, but thoroughly enjoyed.   Here is the basic plot
from the film's imdb website:

  Emily Burns is being held captive in a room with no idea as to why or how she got there. Determined to escape and return to her daughter and husband, Emily discovers clues within the room that help explain what she's doing there. They even provide clues about who she is...but will they help her escape?

 One thing I really liked about this film is it starts out immediately in the middle of the action.   The woman is already kidnapped and locked in the room.  We don't have any slow parts leading up to this, we just jump in to the immediate action.  

  The film also pretty much takes place entirely in this room.   While having one set might have been for budgetary reasons, it also makes for a very creepy vibe as you almost feel claustrophobic and locked in this room with our main character.   Speaking of our main character, actress Marisa Stober did a wonderful job in this film as Emily, portraying a very believable performance. 

  This film does not have much blood or gore at all, instead it relies on the eerie vibe and creepy characters we see.   In fact, the main kidnapper is one of the creepiest characters I have seen in a while, with his burlap sac mask and creepy electronic disguised voice.

  This is one I would definitely recommend.   RIDDLE ROOM is out now on DVD and contains the following special features:

*  Cast/Crew Interviews
*  Behind the Scenes Feature
*  Cast Auditions
*  Investor Scene
*  Bonus Trailer
*  The Making of "Experiment"


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

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, March 22nd, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD's coming out tomorrow, 3/22:

*  BLACK MAMA, WHITE MAMA   [Arrow DVD/Blu-ray]
*  THE BLACK SHEEP  [Blu-ray]
*  COWBOYS VS. DINOSAURS  [DVD]
*  CURSE OF THE POLTERGEIST  [DVD]
*  DISTURBING BEHAVIOR  [Blu-ray]
*  DONOVAN'S BRAIN  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  FEAR THE WALKING DEAD:  Season 1  [DVD & Blu-ray]

DVD Review: NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (1968)

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD
Directed by George A. Romero
Distributed by Cheezy Flicks

 If you consider yourself a true horror fan, then there is no possible way you have never heard or seen George Romero's NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD.  Most people consider this film to be the first true zombie film, and it is definitely the film that ushered in the modern zombie film.    Here is the basic plot from the Cheezy Flicks website:

  Barbra and Johnny visit their father's grave in a remote cemetery when they are suddenly set upon by zombies. Barbra manages to get away and takes refuge in what seems to be an abandoned farm house. She is soon joined by Ben who stopped at the house in need of gad. Beset by the walking dead all around them Ben does his best to secure the doors and windows. The news reports are grim however with creatures returning to life everywhere. Barbra and Ben are surprised when they realize there are 5 people hiding out in the basement: Harry, Helen, and Judy Copper; and a young couple, Tom and Judy. Dissension sets in almost immediately with Harry Cooper wanting to be in charge. As their situation deteriorates, their chances of surviving the night lessen minute by minute.

  While there are many releases of this zombie classic, I have to say that this is my favorite cover art of any of the NOTLD releases to date.   I love the simplicity of the title on the gravestone and the single skeleton hand rising from the grave.     I doubt I really need to talk much about the film itself, as most everyone has seen it I would hope.  It is a classic zombie film that doesn't need the blood and gore like more modern zombie films.  What it lacks in gore it makes up for in atmosphere and suspense.   This is such an important part of film history, and a copy of this DVD belongs in every horror collectors collections for sure.

  One other reason for picking up this release is an exclusive interview with George Romero as a special feature on this DVD.   It's a lot of fun and lets you see the lighter side of Mr. Romero.
 
  NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD is available now for only $5 from Cheezy Flicks!   Grab your copy today!


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

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, March 15th, 2016

 

 



Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD's coming out tomorrow, 3/15:

 

*  THE HATCHING  [DVD]

*  MONSTER DOG  [Blu-ray]

*  PROM RIDE  [DVD]

 

 

Blu-ray Review: THE SINFUL DWARF (1973)

THE SINFUL DWARF
Directed by  Vidal Raski
Distributed by CAV Distribution / Severin Films

 Wow.  Now I have seen some crazy films in my days, but this one takes a place near the top of the list for sure!  The film is called THE SINFUL DWARF and I doubt you have ever seen a movie quite like this. 

  The film is about a dwarf named Olaf and his mother, who run a boarding house.   Olaf loves to play with toys, including the captive naked women he keeps up in a secret room of the attic!   He also makes extra money by letting local townsmen come over and "visit" the women from time to time.  That's about it.  There really isn't much plot here, as is the case with a lot of the exploitation and sexploitation films of the 70's.  

  Basically you know what you are getting when you go into a movie like this.  You aren't going to get an in-depth plot with a great plot twist or anything.  This is purely a film you watch for the sleaze and depravity shown on screen, and this film delivers both of those things in large quantities.  This is an extremely weird movie to say the least. 

 THE SINFUL DWARF is a must see for fans of strange, obscure cinema.  The Blu-ray is available now and contains the following special features:

*  THE DWARF -- Strong International Version
*  THE ABDUCTED BRIDE -- Alternate US Release VersionThe Harry Novak Story - Featurette On The Sultan Of Sexploitation With American Grindhouse Director Elijah Drenner
*  THE BLUE BALLOON (Dir. Svig Sven) Color / 1973 / 75 mins
*  THE HOTTEST SHOW IN TOWN -- Excerpt From Torben Bille Film
*  The Search For Torben -- Featurette On Effort To Find Cast/Crew From THE SINFUL DWARF
*  The Severin Controversy -- Featurette On The Lasting Effects Of THE SINFUL DWARF
*  Trailers, TV Spot, Radio Spot


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

DVD Review: INTRUDERS (2015)

 

INTRUDERS
Directed by Adam Schindler
Distributed by Momentum Pictures / EntertainmentOne

  I can't tell you how much I love when I come across a movie that I know nothing about that I end up absolutely loving!   INTRUDERS is one of those films, for sure.  I knew absolutely nothing about this film when it arrived for review.   I had never seen the cover, never even heard of it before.  Because of this, I honestly wasn't expecting much out of this film.   I reluctantly put it in to watch, thinking it would be another typical home invasion film, and have to write a mediocre review for it.  I expected a cheap knockoff of THE STRANGERS, YOU'RE NEXT, or some similar films.  Instead, what I got was an extremely suspenseful, intriguing, edge of your seat thriller that is easily one of the most entertaining films I have seen in a long time.
  Before I go any further, here is the basic plot from the film's imdb page: 

  Anna suffers from agoraphobia so crippling that when a trio of criminals break into her house, she cannot bring herself to flee. But what the intruders don't realize is that agoraphobia is not her only problem.

  Ok, a pretty simple plot, but the film itself is not so simple.  What starts off as a typical home invasion film turns into something no one sees coming.  In fact, for full enjoyment of the film, I would suggest not watching the trailer as it does give some things away in the film.  

  Agoraphobia is a real condition, and one I can't really wrap my head around.  The fact that the main character could not even leave her house when it was being invaded is startling to me, and makes the film that much more suspenseful.   As the plot states, that is just one of the conditions she suffers from.  The other is  a deep seeded hatred for those that do wrong to people, sparked by her father molesting her as a young girl.  I don't want to say too much as to not give anything away, but she has rigged her house in such a way that allows her to take revenge on the intruders in a way you could never imagine.   What starts as 3 intruders controlling Anna turns into Anna being in control and playing a cat and mouse game with the intruders.

  Again, I really hate to say too much about this one, as I don't want to spoil anything.  Do yourself a favor and snag a copy of INTRUDERS asap.  This is must have for any horror fan and one that I will definitely be revisiting soon!

  INTRUDERS is available now on DVD and contains the following special features:

*  Behind-the-scenes Featurette
*  Audio Commentary:  Cast & Crew


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

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, March 8th, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD releases that come out tomorrow, 3/8:

*  666:  A DEMON WITHIN  [DVD]
*  BAD ASS BITCHES  [DVD]
*  BIKINI MAYHEM  [DVD]
*  BUNNI  [DVD]
*  THE DEVIL KNOWS HIS OWN  [DVD]
*  FIELD FREAK  [DVD]
*  FLESH FOR THE INFERNO  [DVD]
*  FRANKENSTEIN   [DVD]
*  LIZZIE  (1957)  [DVD]
*  THE TAKING  [DVD]
*  VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN  [DVD & BD]
*  YOU'RE KILILNG ME  [DVD]

DVD Review: DRILLER: A SEXUAL THRILLER (1984)

DRILLER:  A SEXUAL THRILLER
Distributed by Wild Eye Releasing

  While I normally don't promote adult films on my website, this one had enough horror aspect to it that I figured, what the heck! I mean, come on, you gotta be a little curious about this one, right?! 

  Well, I'm here to tell you that this is one weird movie.  Not that you couldn't tell that just from the cover!  Ha!  Here is the "plot" from the back of the DVD:

  A depraved dungeon full of werewolves, zombies, mutants and hunchbacks converge for creepy copulations and outrageous orgies in this seldom-seen slice of 35mm vintage XXX sex and slime from 1984.
  Unsuspecting female fans of music megastar "Mr. J", including adult film legend Tajia Rae, are subjected to the sick and sinful advances of horribly hung hunchbacks, sex-starved psychos, and the flesh-hungry undead when he leaves the stage from his latest tour and decides to give his groupies the grope of a lifetime!  You will not believe the secret sexual weapon that this shap-shifting superstar unleashes to turn his fans' screams into creams, but it lives up to the title of the film...did we mention it's a musical?

  Ha, so with a plot like that, it's gotta be good, right!  Well, I don't know if I would call it good by any means, but it is so wild and crazy that fans of wild exploitation cinema should get a kick out of it.   Honestly, there is really not much to review here, as reviewing sex scenes really isn't my thing.  I will say the makeup and effects of the creatures are pretty good, although the Michael Jackson werewolf costume is pretty laughable.

  I recommend this one just out of pure novelty.  It definitely has to bee seen to be believed!  DRILLER:  A SEXUAL THRILLER is available now from Wild Eye Releasing and contains the following special features:

*  New Transfer From Original Elements
*  Interview With Producer Timothy Green Beckley
*  Audio Interview with star Esmerelda
*  Image Gallery


CLICK HERE to purchase watch the trailer and purchase the DVD

 

 

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

 

 

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, March 1st, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD releases that come out tomorrow, 3/1:

*  ALFRED HITCHCOCK:  THE MASTERPIECE COLLECTION  [Blu-ray]
*  THE BOY  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  DEAR GOD NO!  [Blu-ray]
*  THE FEAR OF DARKNESS  [DVD]
*  HOME  [DVD]
*  INTRUDERS  [DVD]
*  KILL OR BE KILLED  [DVD]
*  LUST OF THE DEAD 4  [DVD]
*  NARCOPOLIS  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  PIECES  [Blu-ray/CD combo]
*  SCREAM AT THE DEVIL  [DVD]
*  THE SINFUL DWARF  [Blu-ray]
*  TRANFORMATIONS  [Blul-ray]
*  ZOOMBIES  [DVD]

Blu-ray Review: DEATHGASM (2015)

DEATHGASM
Written & Directed by  Jason Lei Howden
Distributed by Dark Sky Films

  I had no clue what to expect going into this film.  I knew nothing about it and had not seen any trailers or pics from the film.  To be honest, I wasn't really expecting much out of this one, but what I got blew me away.  This is by far one of the most enjoyable films I have seen in years!  Not since the EVIL DEAD films have I enjoyed gore so much!   Here is the plot synopsis of the film from the Dark Sky Films website:

  High School is Hell! Metal-thrashing Brodie is an outcast in a sea of jocks and cheerleaders until he meets a kindred spirit in fellow metalhead Zakk. After starting their own band, Brodie and Zakk’s resentment of the suburban wasteland leads them to a mysterious piece of sheet music said to grant Ultimate Power to whoever plays it. But the music also summons an ancient evil entity known as Aeloth The Blind One, who threatens to tear apart existence itself. Their classmates and family become inhabited by demonic forces, tearing out their own eyes and turning into psychotic murderers… and this is only the beginning!
  It’s up to Brodie, Zakk and their group of friends to stop a force of pure evil from devouring all of mankind. A blood-soaked and hilarious horror comedy, DEATHGASM features an amazing original soundtrack of fist-banging metal and practical effects to satisfy metalheads and splatter fans alike. DEATHGASM will gush bodily fluids, rain limbs and tickle your funny bone, before tearing it out and giving you a stiff beating with it.

  This film is one of the goriest I have seen in quite a while, which is an excellent thing!  On top of that, the effects in this film look to all be practical effects which is also an excellent thing!   The film reminded me of other gorefests, such as EVIL DEAD, RE-ANIMATOR, and DEAD ALIVE just to name a few.   They don't make horror movies like this a lot these days, so I am very thankful for director Jason Lei Howden  for creating this remarkable film.  Also worth noting is the great soundtrack.  If you are heavy metal fan, you are in for a treat with the great music throughout the film.

  Every aspect of this film is spot on, from the acting and camera work, to the above mentioned gore effects.   While the film is a horror films, it is also a dark comedy and Howden does a great job mixing the two genres together.   Making a horror comedy can be very hard to do, as you have to find just the right balance of comedy and horror.   Filmmakers wanting to make a horror/comedy film should use DEATHGASM as the gold standard on how to achieve such a film.

  DEATHGASM is a must see in my opinion.  It is available now on DVD and Blu-ray from Dark Sky Films and contains the following special features:

*  Commentary with Writer-Director Jason Lei Howden
*  Featurettes
*  Music Video:  Bulletbelt- "Deathgasm"
*  Trailers/Teasers


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

DVD Review: EXCESS FLESH (2015)

EXCESS FLESH 
Directed by   Patrick Kennelly
Distributed by Midnight Releasing

  A lot of films sound like they are going to be extreme, or the trailer makes them up to be and then they let us down.  EXCESS FLESH is NOT one of those films!  This film was even more extreme and disturbing than I thought it would be!  

Here is the plot synopsis from the film's official press release: 

  Jill is obsessed with her new roommate Jennifer, a promiscuous and sexy hotshot in the LA Fashion scene.  New to the city and recently single, Jill is unable to keep up as she binges and purges to stay thin; eventually hating herself and everyone around her.  Her jealousy and rage spiral out of control -- Jennifer has everything, and Jill wants to be just like her.  If Jill can’t BE Jennifer, she must destroy her.

  This film reminds me a lot of MARTYRS or INSIDE.   Not in terms of plot, but in terms of the extremeness of the film.  The film is very graphic and disturbing.   Jill obviously has some very deep emotional and mental issues, and they all come to a head once she snaps and begins keeping Jennifer locked up in their apartment.   Jill treats Jennifer in an extreme way, making her eat like a dog out of a bowl, or not letting her eat at all.

  The film is very artistic at some points, and then very dirty and graphic at others.  It has an interesting balance of beauty and repulsion, all mixed together.   The acting is wonderful by all involved, especially by our two main characters.   Both are very convincing as a captor and victim.  The film also has an excellent soundtrack, with some "music" that is more of just noise and static at some points, which really highlights the disturbing scenes occurring on screen at the time.

  I can't say enough good things about this film!  This is a must see and a must have for any horror DVD collectors out there.  EXCESS FLESH will be available via DVD and VOD March 8th, 2016!  Check out the links below to stay up to date on news and DVD release info!


CLICK HERE to watch the trailer
CLICK HERE to view the film's official website
CLICK HERE to view the film's official Facebook page

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, February 23rd, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD releases that come out tomorrow, 2/23:

*  AMERICAN HORROR PROJECT  Vol. 1  [Blu-ray]
*  THE BEES  [Blu-ray]
*  BIGFOOT VS. ZOMBIES  [DVD]
*  CHILDREN SHOULDN'T PLAY WITH DEAD THINGS  [Blu-ray]
*  THE CURSE / THE CURSE II  [Blu-ray]
*  DEMONOID  [Blu-ray/DVD combo]
*  THE EMBALMER / RED HEADED CORPSE  [DVD]
*  THE EXECUTIONER Part 2 / FROZEN SCREAM  [DVD]
*  FRANKENSTEIN  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  GRINDHOUSE HORROR SHOW  [DVD]
*  HOUSE OF AFFLICTIONS   [DVD]
*  SECRET IN THEIR EYES  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  THE SERPENT AND THE RAINBOW   [Blu-ray]
*  UPSIDEDOWN CROSS  [DVD]
*  VOICES FROM THE GRAVE   [DVD]
*  WHORE  [DVD]

Congratulations to the winner of my latest Blu-ray giveaway!

  Congratulations to the winner of my latest Blu-ray giveaway courtesy of Universal Home Entertainment and ThinkJam Distributing!!   Up for grabs was a Blu-ray copy of SINISTER 2! 

The results are in, and the random number generator picked comment/entry # 7 which belongs to Matthew Baker.

  Congratulations Matthew!!  I'll be in touch to get your mailing address, and your Blu-ray will be sent to you directly from ThinkJam. 

  Congrats, and don't worry if you didn't win this time.  Check back often as I have more DVD's ready to give away!!

 Thanks to all those that entered!

Blu-ray Review: THE GREEN INFERNO (2013)

THE GREEN INFERNO
Directed by:   Eli Roth
Distributed by:  Universal Pictures Home Entertainment

  If you are a horror movie fan, then you have surely heard about Eli Roth's latest film, THE GREEN INFERNO.   It was made a few years ago, but then was in distribution limbo for quite sometime.  Luckily the great folks at Universal Pictures took a chance on the film and it was given a wide theatrical release back in September of last year.   If you failed to catch this film at the theater, it is available now on DVD and Blu-ray, so get your hands on a copy asap.    Here is the basic plot synopsis from the Universal website:

  The mastermind behind the Hostel franchise and Cabin Fever, horror auteur Eli Roth, serves up a feast of gut-wrenching terror in the gruesome fear-fest The Green Inferno. Determined to protect the Amazon rainforest, a group of student activists fly to Peru only to crash-land deep in the jungle. Captured by a pack of bloodthirsty cannibals, the survivors suffer unspeakable acts of butchery at the hands of the very tribe they were trying to save. A non-stop barrage of carnage and chills, The Green Inferno is an unhinged blast!

  One of my favorite sub-genres of horror is the Cannibal film.   There is something extremely disturbing with the thought of humans that hunt, kill, and eat other humans.    We were given many cannibal films back in the 70's and early 80's, most notable were CANNIBAL HOLOCAUST and CANNIBAL FEROX.     I love these films and assumed this sub-genre was dead.  I assumed no filmmaker wanted to tackle such a taboo subject matter such as cannibalism.   Thank goodness my assumption was wrong and what better filmmaker to bring us as a new cannibal film than master of horror, Eli Roth!

  Mr. Roth brings back true horror with this latest project.   If you are tired of all the PG-13 horror films coming out lately, you will be glad to finally see a true, rated R horror film.   The film definitely earns it's R rating.   There is some extremely graphic gore in this film, as you would expect with a cannibal film.   The story line is good as well, with a nice little twist at the end.   The acting was great throughout the film, and the camera work was excellent.    

  If I had to find a flaw with this film, it was the bit of comic relief Roth threw in concerning some pot and the cannibals getting high.  That part just seemed silly to me and sort of ruined the flow of the dark subject matter the rest of the film has.    But that is just one little gripe.  Overall I loved this movie and really welcome the cannibal sub-genre back thanks to Eli Roth.  I hope other filmmakers take note and we can see some other cannibal films in the near future!

  THE GREEN INFERNO is available now on DVD and Blu-ray and contains the following special features:

*  Photo Gallery
*  Feature Commentary with Co-Writer/Director/Producer Eli Roth, Producer Nicolas Lopez, and Stars Lorenza Izzo, Aaron Burns, Kirby Bliss Blanton, and Daryl Sabara.


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

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, February 16th, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD releases that come out tomorrow, 2/16:

*  CURSE OF THE FACELESS MAN  [BD]
*  FRANKENSTEIN:  THE COMPLETE MINI SERIES EVENT  [DVD & BD]
*  THE MUTILATOR  [Arrow BD/DVD combo]
*  RIDDLE ROOM
*  THE VINCENT PRICE COLLECTION VOL. 3  [BD]

Blu-ray Review: A LIZARD IN A WOMAN'S SKIN (1971)

A LIZARD IN A WOMAN'S SKIN
Directe by:  Lucio Fulci
Distributed by Mondo Macabro / CAV Distributing

  Let me start by saying I am a huge fan of Luico Fulci.  I have loved every single film I have seen of his, from his classic zombie epics to his early giallo films.  While I have seen most of Fulci's popular films, A LIZARD IN A WOMAN'S SKIN somehow never crossed my path.  I was super excited going into a Fulci film that I had never seen before.  I built this film up in my head and really hoped I was not setting myself up for a let-down.  Luckily, not only was I not let down, I was blown away by how good of a film this is.   Needless to say I was not disappointed.  

  Here is the basic plot synopsis from the official press release:

  Mondo Macabro is very proud to present A Lizard In A Women's Skin, released in HD on Blu-ray for the very first time in North America. Carol Hammond, the frustrated wife of a successful London lawyer, is having bizarre, erotic dreams about her uninhibited neighbor, Julia Durer, who presides over noisy, sex and drug filled parties in the house next door. One night, Carol's dreams culminate in violent death and she wakes to find her nightmares have become reality - Julia has been murdered and Carol is the main suspect. This frightening discovery is just the beginning of a labyrinthine psycho sexual shocker which takes the viewer on a wild ride through a series of frequently breathtaking set pieces that set new standards for the Italian thriller.
  This first US Blu-ray release of the film, taken from the original negative, is the longest, uncut version currently available and comes with a host of exclusive extras. Directed by controversial film maker Lucio Fulci (The New York Ripper, House by the Cemetery, Zombie), Lizard in a Woman's Skin is considered by many critics to be his finest achievement.

  While I would probably say that THE BEYOND is my favorite Fulci film, LIZARD ranks right up there near the top for sure.   This film is quite a bit different from Fulci's other films that focus on more gore and shock.   This one really doesn't have that much gore to speak of, but don't let that turn you off of this film.   While the film doesn't focus on the gore, there are still a few great scenes including one with some dissected dogs that was almost too disgusting to stomach!

  The film has some amazing imagery and some fantastic dream sequences.  While I won't pretend I understood everything that was happening at all times, I enjoyed seeing it happen non the less.   The dream sequences were very moody and atmospheric and felt like an arthouse style of film at some points.  

  This one was a lot different that a lot of his films, but I can't stress enough how much I enjoyed it.  This is a must see for any Fulci fans out there!

  A LIZARD IN A WOMAN'S SKIN is available now from Mondo Macabro and CAV Distributing and contains the following special features:

*  Brand new HD transfer from film negative
*  Shedding the Skin - documentary
*  Dr Lucio Fulci's Day for Night - directed by Antonietta De Lillo - interview with Lucio Fulci
*  Interview with writer Stephen Thrower
*  Interview with actor Tony Adams
*  Audio commentary with Kris Gavin
*  Two original trailers
*  Radio spots
*  Italian/English Language/subtitle choices

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

 

 

 

Enter for your chance to win a FREE Blu-ray of SINISTER 2!!

  It's time for another Blu-ray Giveway from the 4H blog and the fine folks at Universal Home Entertainment and ThinkJam Distributing!  Universal and ThinkJam are giving you the chance to win some FREE Blu-rays of Universal's hottest new horror Releases!!

  We've already given away a copy of M. Night Shyamalan's latest film, THE VISIT, and Eli Roth's latest film, THE GREEN INFERNO.   Our last giveaway is here and this time we are giving away a blul-ray copy of the frightening sequel SINISTER 2!

 Here is the basic synopsis of SINISTER 2 from the Universal Home Entertainment website:

  The sequel to the 2012 sleeper hit horror movie. In the aftermath of the shocking events in Sinister, a protective mother (Shannyn Sossamon of Wayward Pines) and her nine-year-old twin sons (real-life brothers Robert and Dartanian Sloan) find themselves marked for death in a rural house as the evil spirit of Bughuul continues to spread with frightening intensity.

   If you didn't get a chance to check out SINISTER 2 in theaters, now is the time to do so with the Blu-ray release.  SINISTER 2 was released on Blu-ray and DVD January 12th, 2016, but you can win a copy FREE by entering my latest contest today!!

CLICK HERE for more info and to watch the trailer

  In order to win, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post below, and tell me what your favorite horror sequel is.   Include your email so I can contact you.  If you would rather not leave your email address, then just comment on the post and then shoot me an email (zombiehayes@hotmail.com) so I will be able to get in touch with you if you are the winner.  The contest will run from now through Saturday, January 17th and the winner will be chosen at random on Thursday, January 18th.   I will send an email to the winner to collect their mailing address, and then the Blu-ray will be sent directly to the winner from ThinkJam.   Only 1 comment/entry per person please.

Thanks, and GOOD LUCK!!

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, February 9th, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVD/BD releases that come out tomorrow, 2/9:

*  CONVERGENCE   [DVD & BD]
*  CRIMSON PEAK  [DVD & BD]
*  CUT HERE OUT
*  E.N.D
*  FREAKS OF NATURE  [DVD & BD]
*  HANGMAN
*  A LIZARD IN A WOMAN'S SKIN  [BD]
*  RED KROKODIL
*  SOCIOPATHIA
*  ZOMBIE CROC

DVD Review: BLOOD PUNCH (2014)

BLOOD PUNCH
Directed by:  Madellaine Paxson
Distributed by:  Midnight Releasing


  If you are one of those horror fans that complains about there not being any new or original ideas when it comes to horror movies these days, then you will definitely want to check out BLOOD PUNCH from Midnight Releasing.   Here is the plot synopsis courtesy of Midnight Releasing:

On the promise of the ultimate drug score, brilliant chemistry student Milton breaks out of court mandated rehab to follow the mysterious and seductive Skylar and her boyfriend, Russell, to an isolated hunting lodge, where they intend to produce enough meth to set them up for life. Caught in the middle of a love-triangle, Milton and Skylar murder Russell, burying his body in the woods. The next morning they are horrified to find him alive and well, with no memory of the day before. Forced into an endless cycle of death, carnage, and mayhem, Milton is desperate for answers and a way out. But the truth is more horrifying than he could have ever imagined, nothing is as it seems, and there is no one to trust–least of all himself.

  So the film basically centers on a guy and girl who are secluded in a cabin in the woods.  The girl's boyfriend then finds them and goes to the cabin and is killed.  Then he comes back, and they kill him again.  Each day the boyfriend keeps showing up and the guy and girl have to dispose of him in any way they can.    This leads to some very entertaining kills, and provides lots of good gore and bloody effects.

  The film is shot very well with a production value that looks much better than what it's actual budget was I am suspecting.   The acting is excellent from all involved and it's cast perfectly.  Actor Ari Boyland does an excellent job as the psycho boyfriend.  I have to imagine getting killed in a horror movie would be a lot of fun, to think this guy got to do it over and over again with each time being a different kill!   I imaging this film was a lot of fun to shoot.  Actors Milo Cawthorne and Olivia Tennet also give wonderful performances.  Acting can really hurt a horror movie like this, so I was very glad to see such a great job from the entire cast.  

  While we might see this "ground hog day" type of situation is other genres, most notably comedy films, I can't think of any horror film where this has been used before.   Horror is a perfect use of this kind of repetitiveness, and makes for a very fun and entertaining film.  

  I highly recommend this one if you haven't seen it yet.  BLOOD PUNCH is available now from Midnight Releasing and contains the following special features:

*  Deleted Scenes
*  Outtakes
*  Test Footage


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

 
 
 

Blu-ray Review: BLOODY KNUCKLES (2014)

BLOODY KNUCKLES
Written & Directed by Matt O'Mahoney
Distributed by:  Artsploitation Films

  Very seldom can you mix horror with comedy and make a good film.  Good horror comedies are few and far between for me, but every now and then a film can mix the two elements just right and come away with a great film.  Luckily, writer/director Matt O'Mahoney has managed to do just that with the great comedy/horror film, BLOODY KNUCKLES.  Here is the basic plot courtesy of the Artsploitation Films website:

  Travis, an underground comic book artist with a penchant for obscene caricatures, upsets a Chinatown crime lord who responds by cutting off the young man’s hand. As a despondent, drunken Travis wallows in post-severed hand depression, his decomposing limb returns to life and is determined to exact revenge. Soon, Travis and his mischievous appendage join forces with a masked S&M superhero to rid the city of evil. Filmmaker Matt O.’s debut feature strips Canada of its “land of nice” image with this deliriously offensive, gory, and happily un-PC horror-comedy!

  Now I have to admit, some of the humor in this film is a bit childish and crass, but I admit I laughed out loud multiple times.   If you don't like crude humor, you will probably not like this film, but if you can appreciate some good rude humor (like I do), then this will be your type of film.   In addition to the humor, the horror aspect of this film is just as much in the forefront and is a huge part of what makes this movie so good for me.   There is some great effects and gore on display here, most of which look to be practical effects, which is always a plus in my opinion.  

  The film looks great, and I have a feeling it looks like a much bigger budget film that it probably was.   The film is shot and edited well, contains great camerawork and all the actors do a wonderful job.   This was a top notch production which is amazing considering this is writer/director Matt O'Mahoney's first feature length production!  I look forward to seeing more from this great filmmaker in the future!

  Check out BLOODY KNUCKLES if you get the chance.  It is a fun film and well worth your time (and money).   The DVD and Blu-ray are available now and contain the following special features:

*  Director's Commentary
*  Deleted Scenes
*  Short Films "Electric Fence" and "Adjust Tracking"
*  Featurettes


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

This week's horror related DVD and Blu-ray releases, February 2nd, 2016

Here are this week's horror related DVDs and Blu-rays that come out tomorrow, 2/2:

*  ALL HALLOWS EVE 2
*  EXTRAORDINARY TALES  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  HALF HUMAN
*  HELLIONS  [DVD &  Blu-ray]
*  HE NEVER DIED
*  HIGHWAY TO HELL
*  JULIA
*  THE LAST WITCH HUNTER  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  THE LIZZY BORDEN CHRONICLES:  SEASON 1 
*  MARTYRS  [DVD & Blu-ray]
*  NIGHT OF THE WILD
*  QUARANTINE L.A.
*  RAGE [Blu-ray]
*  ROUGH CUT
*  UNCAGED
*  VISIONS
*  ZOMBIE FIGHT CLUB

Blu-ray Review: CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH 2: SUBHUMANOID MELTDOWN

CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH 2
Directed by Eric Louzil, Donald G. Jackson
Distributed by Troma Entertainment

  If you are familiar with Troma Entertainment, then you know what you are getting when you put in a film called CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH 2:  SUBHUMANOID MELTDOWN.   You are a getting a film that is just plain crazy, and that's what we like about Troma films, right?  Here is the basic plot of the film courtesy of the Troma website:

  First there was the super successful theatrical smash hit CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH...now comes the hyper-riotous, big budget sequel: CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH PART II: SUBHUMANOID MELTDOWN! The lovable cretins from Tromaville high school have graduated Summa Cum Weirdly, and the once peaceful Tromaville Institute of Technology is awash in a wave of violence and corporate greed. Meltdowns, massacres, and mutations abound on campus where humongous giant squirrels and obnoxious talking belly buttons are the least of your problems! Gloriously restored in all its anarchic glory, it's CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH PART II: SUBHUMANOID MELTDOWN like you've never seen it before!

 Now I must admit, I have never seen the original CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH, but I really don't think you have to have seen that one to enjoy this one.  In fact, the film give you a recap of what happened in the first on at the beginning, so you should be good to go.  Not that you really need to keep up with any sort of plot though, this just isn't that type of movie!   The plot is very unimportant to this film, as the focus here is more on all the crazy stuff going on around the college/nuclear power plant.   There are crazy experiemnts on the students, a gang called the Squirrels that terrorize the students, and worst of all, an actual giant radioactive squirrel that tears the place apart!   

  There is no denying this is a Troma film.  It has everything you'd expect from a Troma film including crude humor, bad special effects  (some so bad, it's good though), bad acting and gratuitous nudity.   If you are a fan of the Toxic Avenger films, you will love this one.  

CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH 2:  SUBHUMANOID MELTDOWN is available now on Blu-ray and contains the following special features:

*  HD transfer of the movie from original materials
*  Audio commentary
*  Music Video trailer
*  Interview with Troma star Lisa Gaye
*  Nuke 'Em High Saga trailers including Return to Nuke 'Em High: Vol. 1 & 2
*  Premiere of Mystery's music video "Return to Nuke 'Em High"
*  Lloyd Kaufman interviews James Gunn on the set of Guardians of the Galaxy
*  Troma at the Museum of Modern Art
*  The American Cinematheque honors 40 Years of Troma


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