Saturday, July 12, 2014

My Review Of ‘Hell’s Caretaker”


HC“Hell’s Caretaker” is a psychological thriller directed by Phillip Cappello and stars Patrick McGowen, Alexandra Mingione, Joey Mintz, Sean Deblat, Aya Beldi (Shapovalov). The story revolves around a group of friends who take a trip back to a family retreat in order to say goodbye to a four-legged friend. They are greeted by a horror far worse than the pain of saying good by when the caretaker turns out to be a brutal psychopathic killer.

The plot for “Hell’s Caretaker” is a well thought-out concept that screams terror. Unfortunately that terror becomes lost in translation when acted out. The cast give good enough performances, even though the characters seemed a bit two-dimensional. The dialog and most situational moments play out convincingly enough and feel authentic, but a lot of little inflections and interactions seem nonsensical-not true to human nature, so the feel of those moments drop a bit. Cappello creates a nice enough story that should have been a tight nightmare, however I never felt any suspense or chill as a horror fan while watching this film.

The special effects here are obviously where budget cuts were made in “Hell’s Caretaker” because the kill scenes seemed rushed and pushed off as “just another scene to get through”. The blood and gore was almost nonexistent, not that every film needs it or that I have to have it to appreciate a film, but if you are gonna have a story tease and take you to that moment then the director should deliver it. Cappello never really delivers on it-it being the horror and terror aspect of this film.

The soundtrack and sound effects in “Hell’s Caretaker” are quality additives offering a blend of melancholia and sorrowful nostalgia. It is really the only true nod to horror, or suspense in the film. There is slight flash gore visual affects, and flashback to the death scene moments that give a slight nightmarish quality to the story but it isn’t enough to push “Hell’s Caretaker” to that true horror or thriller level that the story arch teases. Plus the killer is never really defined separately, or terrifyingly enough, against the rest of the characters/victims to make him monstrous so it causes the kill sequences to fall flat.

Overall “Hell’s Caretaker” is a bummer of a horror film, feeling more made-for-TV than actual indie horror. It does manage to bring to life a good drama, even has a small amount of haunting suspense in certain moments of the film, unfortunately not enough to satisfy me personally. The acting is standard with characters that are clichéd but relatable and the story arch is completed. So those elements offer so compensation for the time spent watching “Hell’s Caretaker”. The real problem with the film and how Cappello chose to bring this nightmare to life is the unwillingness to show the actual horror, I am all for “implied or suggested horror” but I don’t want to have to do all the work, I wanna see some bloody gruesomeness to help get me there.

Red Band Trailer For “Suburban Gothic”


sgCheck out the red band trailer for Richard Bates Jr.’s “Suburban Gothic”. The film stars Matthew Gray Gubler, Kat Dennings, Ray Wise, Barbara Niven, Jeffrey Combs, John Waters, Sally Kirkland and Mackenzie Phillips. “Suburban Gothic” will premiere at Fantasia Film Festival in Montreal and is a modern, dark, comedic slice of trash cinema…

Quirky young Raymond has been having a tough couple of months. Even with his recent college degree, he can’t find work in the big city — and he’s realizing that it’s time to swallow his pride and move back in with his overbearing, suburban parents.

Little does he realize, however, that this temporary layover in Middle America is going to be anything but mundane… Haunted by otherworldly visions since childhood, Raymond soon finds himself beset upon by spirits intent on making his time at home as miserable as possible. His only outlet for sanity seems to be local bartender Becca who, aside from chasing off the same bullies who wanted to beat Raymond up in high school, finds herself drawn to his endearing quirkiness. Together, the duo find themselves unraveling the mystery behind a century-old murder — and scaring up plenty of laughs along the way.



DVD Release Date For “The Forbidden Girl”


fgPress Release:
A young man must resist the seductive lure of an ancient witch or be condemned to an eternal life on the dark side in The Forbidden Girl, possessing DVD August 12th from Inception Media Group.

Toby (Peter Gadiot; “Once Upon a Time in Wonderland,” Night Wolf), a troubled young man who lost his girlfriend in a tragic accident, begins to put his life back together after spending years in a psychiatric institute. Upon his release, he takes a job tutoring a beautiful woman (Jytte-Merle Böhrnsen) who lives in her aunt’s lonely mansion.

When Toby suspects his student is possessed, his haunting memories return; and unexplainable, supernatural occurrences drive him from the house. But the seemingly innocent young woman draws him back with a powerful, seductive temptation.

At the height of his ecstasy, Toby realizes that there is a paranormal connection between the women of the house… Is it too late to save himself from eternal slavery in a hellish underworld?

Also starring Jeanette Hain (The Whistleblower, The Poll Diaries, The Young Victoria, The Reader), Roger Tebb (The Bourne Identity), and Klaus Tange (A Royal Affair, Flame and Citron), The Forbidden Girl is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9 (1.78:1) and 5.1 digital surround sound.





Teaser Poster For “Atomic Shark”

In a series of of films that bring the worlds deadliest underwater predator, (aside from man’s military presence), to life in CGI fantasy, in over-the-top paranormal/sci-fi flamboyance, Tomcat Films has released a promo poster and first details for “Atomic Shark”. A shark strapped with nukes…


asIn ATOMIC SHARK General Dale “The Charger” Hamilton has an intriguing plan to become the next leader of America. After hiring terrorist Karl Schmidt the two share an interest in a marine biologist Dr. Mann who has created an electronic device that attracts sharks making them attack anything emitting the signal even ships or submarines, which is precisely why General Dale and Schmidt are interested in the device, along with a huge 23 foot great white shark that Dr. Mann has captured.

Knowing the President of the USA is scheduled to christen a new nuclear submarine General Hamilton has the means to attach Dr. Mann’s invention to the sub. Leaving Schmidt to outfit the Great White with lethal cargo and send it on its mission. All that needs to occur is for the sub to destroyed, emitting a radioactive cloud that will cover all of Washington D.C and most of North eastern seaboard allowing General Dale and his troops to take over the reins of chaos. Controlling the Vice President through blackmail all that really stands in his way are agents Wilkes and Dorcet, who currently have no idea the deadly mission they’re about to face.

Friday, July 11, 2014

Pagan Festival Shout Out: Guru Purnima


1Guru Purnima (IAST: Guru Pūrṇimā, sanskrit: गुरु पूर्णिमा) is a Hindu festival dedicated to spiritual and academic teachers. This festival traditionally celebrated by Hindus and Buddhists, to thank their teachers. It is marked by ritualistic respect to the Guru, Guru Puja. The Guru Principle is a thousand times more active on the day of Gurupournima than on any other day. The word Guru is derived from two words, 'Gu' and 'Ru'. The Sanskrit root "Gu" means darkness or ignorance. "Ru" denotes the remover of that darkness. Therefore one who removes darkness of our ignorance is a Guru. Gurus are believed by many to be the most necessary part of lives. On this day, disciples offer puja(worship) or pay respect to their Guru (Spiritual Guide). It falls on the day of full moon, Purnima, in the month of Ashadh (June–July) of the Shaka Samvat, Indian national calendar and Hindu calendar.

Traditionally the festival is celebrated by Buddhists in honor of the lord Buddha who gave His first sermon on this day at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh,India. In the yogic tradition, the day is celebrated as the occasion when Shiva became the first Guru, as he began the transmission of yoga to theSaptarishis. Many Hindus celebrate the day in honor of the great sage Vyasa, who is seen as one of the greatest gurus in ancient Hindu traditions and a symbol of the Guru-shishya tradition.

This was the day, when Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa – author of the Mahabharata – was born to sage Parashara and a fisherman's daughter Satyavati, thus this day is also celebrated asVyasa Purnima. Veda Vyasa, did yeoman service to the cause of Vedic studies by gathering all the Vedic hymns extant during his times, dividing them into four parts based on their use in the sacrificial rites, and teaching them to his four chief disciples – Paila, Vaisampayana, Jaimini and Sumantu. It was this dividing and editing that earned him the honorific "Vyasa" (vyas = to edit, to divide). "He divided the Veda into four, namely Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva. The histories and the Puranas are said to be the fifth Veda."

Poster, Images And More Released For “Come Back To Me”


CBTMCheck out the tons of visual goodies from Paul Leyden’s adaptation, of Matthew Guinn’s novel The Resurrectionist, “Come Back To Me”. The film stars Matt Passmore, Katie Walder, Maura West, Nathan Keyes, and Laura Gordon. “Come Back To Me” will hit theatres, and digital download on iTunes, DirectTV, in-Demand on July 25th, 2014.

Sarah & Josh are married suburbanites. After a car accident, Sarah suffers blackouts & ends up pregnant though Josh is sterile. As her life spirals she hides a camera in her home & unlocks a horrific secret with far-reaching consequences.









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Check Out Christopher Butler’s “Scopia”


scopiaChristopher Butler’s “Scopia” is a psychological, horror that mixes in sci-fi, with drama. The film is getting ready for a festival run in the fall that will be announced officially mid-August. “Scopia” stars Joanna Ignaczewska, Louis Labovitch, Jessica Jay, Mathew Roberts, Akira Koieyama and is describes as “…reminiscent of Kubrick, Lynch or Herzog, the movie has no clear boundaries of reality, and the complexity of the protagonist Basia keeps the audience hooked ”.


Originally from Poland, Basia lives and works in London. After a hypnotic session with her psychologist Edward Stanton she taps into a part of the mind that should never be meddled with.

With the natural balance of her existence becoming increasingly unstable, Basia's world becomes very strange and eventually spirals into a perpetual nightmare oscillating erratically around time and space.

A traumatic experience from her past combined with her fragmented and distorted present, push her mind and soul to it's limits and beyond.

“Wer” U.S. DVD Release Details


werWilliam Brent Bell’s horror film, “Wer”, is getting a U.S. DVD release. The werewolf flick starring A.J. Cook, Sebastian Roché, Stephanie Lemelin, and Vik Sahay will land September 23rd, 2014 thanks to Universal Home Entertainment.

A defense attorney begins to suspect that her client, who is charged with the murders of a vacationing family, might be more than meets the eye.





Trailer Released For Maude Michaud’s “Dys”

dys“How well do you handle stress…?”


Check out the trailer for Maude Michaud’s horror film “Dys”. The film stars Shannon Lark, Alex Goldrich, Dega Lazare, Luc Bernier, with special appearance by Lynn Lowry. This Michaud’s debut feature and will premiere on August 1st at Fantasia Film Festival.

A strange disease is plaguing the city; classes are cancelled, businesses are closed, all is under a state of emergency. What at first seems like a normal flu quickly leads to blind rage and cannibalistic behavior. Narrowly escaping contamination, Eva and Sam, a young married couple, are forced to barricade themselves in their high-rise apartment despite the palpable tension between them. Now forced into isolation in their small living space, they struggle with their own frailty in a world that can only offer the worst horrors imaginable.





                      
                                          DYS- Official Trailer #1 from Maude Michaud on Vimeo.

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Crowd Funding Campaign For “Old Baby”


“Old Baby” is a psychological thriller which awakens the complexities of love, infatuation, compulsion and the instability of human nature. The film is currently running a crowd funding effort over on GoFundMe.com. “Old Baby” is from the creators of the multiple award-winning* feature film “The Feed”, Fist In Post Films.

oldbabyWhile reporter Jon Edens is researching for a book about people that have closed themselves off from the outside world (shut-ins), he stumbles upon a curious woman named Adelaide. Her stern, morally over-zealous upbringing within a cult-like communal group known only as "The Family" shaped her early years and has caused her to be emotionally undeveloped in relating to the outside world. Jon finds out that, shortly after the birth of her only son, a horrific house fire claimed the lives of Adelaide's husband and a community midwife. Knowing the evidence would point to her as the alleged murderer, she collected up her son and fled from the judgment of the community. Since that time she has been holed-up as a long-term renter at a distant, off-road motel. It is there that obsession is sparked and dark secrets are illuminated. Secrets that she would die for - or kill to protect.

New Poster For “Jamie Marks Is Dead”

Check out the new official poster for “Jamie Marks Is Dead”. The film is directed by Carter Smith and stars Liv Tyler, Judy Greer, Noah Silver, Madisen Beaty, Cameron Monaghan, Morgan Saylor. “Jamie Marks Is Dead” hits VOD limited theatrical release on August 29th, 2014. Smith is the director behind “The Ruins” a supernatural, outdoor horror that had me and my boyfriend at odds. He felt the old premise was silly, obviously not grasping the whole otherworldly nature of ancient beliefs combined with earthly life that develops to paranormally terrifying levels. I really enjoyed the nature attacking man and “all hope is lost” nightmare far from modern convenience. Anyway….

Jamie-Marks-Is-Dead-Poster
About “Jamie Marks Is Dead”-Adam McCormick had just turned fifteen when the body was found in the woods. It is the beginning of an autumn that will change his life forever.

Jamie Marks was a boy a lot like Adam, a boy no one paid much attention to—a boy almost no one would truly miss. And for the first time, Adam feels he has a purpose. Now, more than ever, Jamie needs a friend. But the longer Adam holds on to Jamie’s ghost, the longer he keeps his friend tethered to a world where he no longer belongs… and the weaker Adam’s own ties to the living become.

Now, to find his way back, Adam must learn for himself what it truly means to be alive.

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Trailer Released For “The Jersey Devil”


jdPress Release:
Humanity Pride Productions, Green Light Films, and Diamond Jesus Productions have released the official trailer for their new horror/comedy project, The Jersey Devil.
The film stars Chris Mulkey, David Chokachi, Keith Collins, Jack Mulcahy, Edvin Ortega, and Penelope Lagos. It was directed by two-time New York Emmy winner Joseph Pepitone, written by Joseph Pepitone and Billy Pepitone, and produced by Jeff Quinlan, Keith Collins, Ed Luster, Jay Andriani, and Joseph Pepitone. Executive producers are Michael Billy, Jarl Haugedal, Dorothy Fucito, Debbie Philips, Charles Anastasia, Larry Salvato, John Camera, Frank Sepe, Jessica Pell, and Kimberly Clemente.

Synopsis: When Lucifer’s term limits come up, a new devil takes over with a vision to re-brand Hell; he wants something younger, cooler. After an exhaustive search he finds the perfect location for the new hell in Jersey City, New Jersey. As he begins to collect new souls to challenge the Kingdom, Lucifer comes to Jersey to foil his plans and return Hell to its original location.





Premiere Date And Promo For FOX’s ‘Sleepy Hollow’


shThe first promo for FOX’s ‘Sleepy Hollow’ has been released along with the announcement of the season two premiere. ‘Sleepy Hollow’ will return September 22nd, 2014, on the Equinox, so that just raises my excitement and reason for celebration. The Fall Equinox kicks off my favorite Holiday season. It should be mentioned that ‘Sleepy Hollow’ was nominated for an Emmy® in Outstanding Original Music. Congratulations to the crew and cast for that laud.







Release Date Announced For “Werewolf Rising”


The DVD release date has been announced for  BC Furtney’s “Werewolf Rising”. The film stars  Bill Oberst Jr., Melissa Carnell, Danielle Lozeau, Irena Murphy, and Matt Copko. Image Entertainment has set an October 1st date for the home video release of the film.

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Desperate for a break from big city life, Emma heads to her family’s cabin deep in the Arkansas hills. As she settles in for some much-needed R&R, she learns that something unspeakable lurks in the surrounding darkness. As the full moon rises, a bloodthirsty werewolf emerges from the shadows, slaughtering everyone in its path and revealing a sinister underworld Emma never knew existed. Thrown into a fight for her life, and her very soul, Emma will need to escape these big bad woods before it’s too late.

Official Selection Announced For Nashville Comic And Horror Film Festival


ccThis years Nashville Comic and Horror Film Festival is being curated by film maker Cameron McCasland and emceed by his long time collaborator Dr. Gangrene Larry Underwood. McCaslands new film The Lashman will be screening along with an assortment of his short film pairings with Dr. Gangrene including a brand new short entitled “Monster Movie Day” making its big screen premiere in Nashville.

The festival is focusing on regional talents with over a dozen films from around the states of Tennessee and Kentucky. The festival will also be screening Cody Knotts Pro-Wrestlers Vs. Zombies in collaboration with the festivals theme of pro-wrestling and the undead Guest appearing include. Jim Cornette, Jerry Jarrette, Superstar Bill Dundee, TNA Superstar Crimson, and The Texas Chainsaw Massacres, John Dugan.

In addition to a wealth of short films, the festival will also be screening the horror anthology Hi-8 which features 8 shot on Hi-8 shorts by veteran film makers Tim Ritter, Ron Bonk, and Donald Farmer.

The event begins at 10 am Saturday July 12, 2014 at the Tennessee state fairgrounds Vaughn Building 625 Smith ave. Admission to the show is only $5.00 and includes passes to all film screenings. Proceeds raised benefit the Human Society of Middle Tennessee. For more information visit www.comiccitytn.com

Official selections
The Diabolical Hair Dude - Taylor Gentry
Watershed - Craig Anderson
Photograph - Brandon Fields
The Favor - Captain America - Chase Gustafson
Home - Chuck Angell
Stitch - Brad Rea
In The Pines - Misty Dawn
Hi-8 - Ron Bonk, Donald Farmer, Marcus Koch, Tony Masiello, Tim Ritter, Chris Seaver, Todd Sheets, Brad Sykes
The Lashman - Cameron McCasland
The Truck - Lee Vervoort
Pro Wrestlers Vs Zombies - Cody Knotts
Wolfbite - Cameron McCasland
Creature Cooler - Cameron McCasland
Heating Up - Cameron McCasland
Monster Movie Day - Cameron McCasland
Dead Last - Chuck Angell

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Teaser Poster Released For “Tusk”


TuskCheck out the teaser poster Kevin Smith released for his upcoming horror “Tusk”. The film stars Haley Joel Osment, Justin Long, Genesis Rodriguez, Michael Parks, Ralph Garman and Harley Morenstein.

A podcaster goes in search of his missing friend, lost somewhere in the backwoods of Canada. And, this radio host must find others to help his search.

Two Character Posters For “The Trick Or Treaters”


ttposterTwo new character posters have been released for Mike Chester’s found footage, horror – comedy “The Trick Or Treaters”. The film is a P.O.V. styled homage shot from dual perspective. “The Trick Or Treaters” stars Veronica Scott, and Mike Chester, himself in what is sure to become a Halloween cult classic to add to my holiday movie rotation.

Every year strange events are captured on camera, some are not explainable, while others are unbelievable. On the night of October 30, 2012,

multiple people were attacked and murdered within their homes. The shocking events of that night were documented on two video cameras.

During a mellow pre-Halloween night of drinks, pranks and old horror films, Amy and Jake film a last minute schedule video for their school's annual Halloween fundraiser, but they are quickly interrupted by a strange group of trick or treaters, also equipped with a video camera. What Amy and Jake think is a prank by their friends, they ignore the strange interruption and continue with their night. As strange things continue to occur and escalate to an extreme level, the students quickly discover that they are dealing with dark individuals, and they don't want candy.

Experience the terrifying night in the perspectives of Amy, Jake and The Trick or Treaters. Prepare for an in-your-face roller coaster through hell!

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First Look At Todd E. Freeman’s “Love Sick”

2PORTLAND, OREGON (JULY 8, 2014)  Polluted Pictures is proud to share the first promotional image featuring Tristan Risk (American Mary) and Francisco Barreiro (Here Comes the Devil) in their roles as the pained couple in the feature film "Love Sick."

"Love Sick" is the story of Rebecca and Marcus who "have been together for 10 years and after much deliberation have decided to part ways. After separating and being with others, they quickly realize how hard it is to disconnect from one another. The pain, lies, and betrayal all begin to manifest physically within the both of them as well as infect the others who have become involved with intimately. They love each other so much that it hurts... some more than others."

"We flew Tristan and Francisco into Portland for a photo shoot to show potential collaborators what we've got up our sleeves."  Writer / Director Todd E. Freeman goes on to say, "Ever since we were chosen as one of the twelve projects accepted into the Official Frontières International Co-Production Market in Montreal we knew that we had a unique opportunity to communicate our vision for the film to so many international genre sales agents, co-producers, and distributors all at one time.  We've put together an amazing pitch book filled with photos of our leads in character as well as concept and key art from some of the most amazing professionals in the world.  It's pretty hard to not be extremely excited about where we are at with the project." 

Joining the cast are Bill Moseley (Devil's Rejects), Barbara Crampton (You're Next), Augie Duke (Bad Kids Go To Hell), Andrew Sensenig (Upstream Color), Camden Toy (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), and Ruben Pla (Contracted, Big Ass Spider).

Polluted Pictures is presenting the project for the first time to accredited participants at the Frontières International Co-Production Market that takes place during the Industry Rendez-Vous of the Fantasia International Film Festival, from July 24 to 27, 2014.  The film is scheduled to shoot this winter.
Love Sick will be presented at the market by Todd E. Freeman and Lara Cuddy.  Photos taken by Levy Moroshan.  SFX by Christina Kortum.  Makeup by Sabrina Cayne.  Wardrobe by Jade Harris. 





First Image And Promo Poster For “Bloody Knuckles”


Bloody-Knuckles-Poster-610x942Press Release:
BLOODY KNUCKLES, the debut feature film from writer/director Matt O’Mahoney, has released a still and teaser poster ahead of its World Premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival. The film, produced by Daniel Domachowski and Christena Zatylny, will play as part of the newly created Fantasia Underground section, which is “dedicated to showcasing outrageous indie outsider visions created in the counter-cultural spirit”.

BLOODY KNUCKLES is the story of Travis Warner, an underground comic book artist who revels in the profane. When his latest comic offends a Chinatown crime boss, the gangster removes his drawing hand as punishment. Travis abandons his comic, along with his ideals, and spirals into drunken misery. That is, until his hand returns from the grave. The lovable, decomposing appendage drags Travis through a seedy netherworld of dirty comics, contraband pesticides, and underground sex clubs on its quest for justice!


 
knucklesThis blood­ drenched horror/comedy not only delivers giggles and gore but also serves as a tribute to freedom of expression. The director explains: “I’ve always been fiercely opposed to censorship. Mainly because my taste in art, books, movies, and music have always been the target of censors! I take it very personally.” He continues: “I was really disturbed by the embrace of self­censorship following the Danish Muhammad cartoons controversy. It forecast such a bleak future for freedom of speech. So, I wanted to make a film that addressed that without being too heavy­handed. No pun intended!”

The film stars newcomers Adam Boys (LEPRECHAUN: ORIGINS), Gabrielle Giraud (SUPERNATURAL), Kasey Ryne Mazak, Dwayne Bryshun, and Ken Tsui.





Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Release Date Set For “V/H/S Viral”


1It looks like the third installment of the “V/H/S” trilogy will arrive October 23rd, VOD. “V/H/S Viral” brings directors  Todd Lincoln (“The Apparition”), Nacho Vigalondo (“Timecrimes”), Marcel Sarmiento (“Deadgirl”), Gregg Bishop (“Dance of the Dead”), Justin Benson (“Resolution”), and Aaron Moorhead (“Resolution”) for tales of a deranged illusionist, a homemade machine that opens a door to a parallel world, teen skaters involved in a Mexican death ritual, and a sinister organization tracking a serial killer – all tied together in a mythology that takes the V/H/S franchise into the internet age.







My Review Of “Sledge”


sledge-poster-small“Sledge” is a return to the classic slasher gore. The film is directed by John B Sovie II, with Kristian Hanson and stars Kristian Hanson, Russell Matoes, Dustin Bowman, Travis Hanson, Stephanie Tupper, and Rachel Cornell. The plot puts a group of campers in the direct path of a homicidal maniac whose weapon of choice is a sledge hammer. “Sledge” is a comfortable, steady slasher with great direction, backgrounds and carnage.

The story is one that is sort of cookie cutter in most slasher films, but it is a pattern to the genre that works. In “Sledge” the collection of meat lined-up for the killer are out camping and drinking and having a big ole time. Only, in this film, that story is framed by a more modern story of a young girl watching “Sledge” on a late night horror show called ‘Assly’s True American Horror’. This almost gives a blend of horror host/anthology vibe to the viewing experience. It is a unique aspect that created that comfortable air going into the story.

Now the killer on the other hand, although I dug the design, was a bit uncomfortable to watch onscreen. For me personally , the over-the-top jokey quality took away from the power that “Sledge” was generating for me. It was really the only hang up I had in this entire film. The cast gave great performances, made the characters believable and added authenticity to the story arch, instead of seeming like actors put into a situation they can’t relate to. The killer’s too hokey personality aside, did manage to create some nice slasher moments that almost makes his dialog and style forgivable.

The special effects are on the cheaper side, most indie slashers do and “get it done”. “Sledge” is no exception, the film gives good gore. The kills fun, bloody and classic. The intro effects at the beginning had me worried with the obvious CGI blood, but the energy and feel of the kill sequences and use of practical effects made everything all better for me as a horror, and slasher, fan. The atmosphere stays very casual while being very dark which really shines during the dialog/drama scenes of the cast. Reminiscent of early 80’s indie slashers, the comic relief of the killer interactions give hit and miss moments that sometimes complements the overall film and other times holds the energy back, It is really up to personal preference as a horror fan whether it all works well for you or not.

Sound effects and soundtrack both create and add eerie, entertaining levels of emotion, suspense and fun to “Sledge”. It stays organic and indie, but through most of the film sound really gives this slasher the breathe to scream. Nothing is really radically new or flipped from what we expect from our horror films in “Sledge”, but it carries you into the intensity during suspenseful moments, keeps you chill during the dramatic moments, and even during the clunky killer scenes leading to a kill, the sound manages to keep the desired effect. Really I enjoyed pretty much everything about “Sledge” except the chosen portrayal of this formidable slasher, where his personification is concerned.

Crowd Funding For “Scavenger” Begins


11A crowd funding campaign has started for Welsh horror “Scavenger” over on Kickstarter. The film is described as Nouveaux-Gothic story that holds place in between the realm of horror and the place of thrillers. “Scavenger” is being directed by Lewis M. Jordan from a script co-written with Jason Smith. Victoria Broom, and Paul Marlon have signed on to play the lead roles in the film.

A brother and sister get caught up in a scavenger hunt that quickly goes from competitive to dangerous.
When recovering alcoholic Conrad White [Paul Marlon] moves into his new home in an effort to rebuild his life as an honest, blue collar carpenter after his relationship ends, he finds himself struggling to stay sober. To help him, his sister, Mary [Victoria Broom] insists on staying with him through his transition period.
To help take his mind off the drink, Mary has a gift for him. An old, engraved, wooden box; for his restoration projects.

As he starts restoring the box, and researching its origins, he discovers that it has an interesting past. When he puts a seemingly innocuous item into the ‘Freya box’; things really start to get interesting.

Our characters soon discover that the Freya box is infact a game; a scavenger hunt. In return for an incredibly addictive but brief experience known as ‘enlightenment’; pitting two players against each other and pushing them to the very limits of their sanity.

As the game progresses, the requests grow increasingly vampiric in nature; the pursuit of which draws the worst side out of our characters.
(Horror Society)






Crowd Funding Started For “MILFs VS. Zombies”


1The horror comedy “MILFs VS. Zombies” has kicked off a crowd funding campaign on Indiegogo.com. The film will be an entertaining, action packed gore fest filled with beautiful women, tons of blood, lots of laughs and a healthy dose of nudity. “MILFs VS. Zombies” is from the twisted minds behind “Ghoulish Tales”, Fuzzy Monkey Films. Check out the teaser below.














All 30 Universal Classic Monster Films In One Collection


2Press Release:
Since the era of silent films, Universal Pictures has earned a reputation as the home of the monster movie, producing landmark films that defined the horror genre for all time. Now for the first time ever, all 30 Universal Classic Monster films will be available together on DVD in the Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection, available on September 2, 2014. Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection showcases every original film featuring Hollywood’s most iconic monsters, including Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, The Invisible Man, The Bride of Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, The Phantom of the Opera and The Creature from the Black Lagoon.

Starring legendary actors Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney, Jr., Claude Rains and Elsa Lanchester in the roles they made famous, these films set the standard for decades to come with revolutionary makeup, mind-blowing cinematography and groundbreaking special effects. Featuring hours of revealing bonus features, Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection brings home classic thrills and chills with some of the most unforgettable characters ever filmed.

With hours of bonus features as well as a 48-page book featuring behind-the-scenes photographs, original posters, rare correspondence and more to enhance the viewing experience, Universal Classic Monsters: Complete 30-Film Collection includes:

Dracula (1931)
Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943)
Frankenstein (1931)
Phantom of the Opera (1943)
The Mummy (1932)
Son of Dracula (1943)
The Invisible Man (1933)
The Invisible Man’s Revenge (1944)
The Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
The Mummy’s Ghost (1944)
Werewolf of London (1935)
House of Frankenstein (1944)
Dracula’s Daughter (1936)
The Mummy’s Curse (1944)
Son of Frankenstein (1939)
House of Dracula (1945)
The Invisible Man Returns (1940)
She-Wolf of London (1946)
The Mummy’s Hand (1940)
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)
The Invisible Woman (1940)
Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951)
The Wolf Man (1941)
Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954)
The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942)
Revenge of the Creature (1955)
Invisible Agent (1942)
Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955)
The Mummy’s Tomb (1942)
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Trailer No. 2 For “Zombies Of The Living Dead”


4Trailer no. 2 for Fast Coast Productions’ “Zombies Of The Living Dead” has surfaced. The horror-comedy is directed by Christian Ackerman and stars Josh Meny, Johanna Ciampa, Jesse Head, Cheyenne Adamson, Danielle Ackerman April Dupree, Tyler & Edmund Wittenberg. Zombies attack a the town of Clear Water Hamilton County and the locals must try to stop them before it is too late. Filled with great zombie monster special effects, exploding heads, action packed, and lots of crazy fun.













First Clip For “L.A. Slasher”


3Check out the first clip from upcoming indie horror “L.A. Slasher”. The film is directed by Martin Owen and Mischa Barton, Eric Roberts, Brooke Hogan, Drake Bell, Abigail Wright, Tori Black, Marisa Lauren, Elizabeth Morris, Korina Rico. “L.A. Slasher” is a satirical take on the horror genre set against the celebrity obsessed world of modern day Los Angeles.

The Slasher hates what Hollywood has become, a place where fame trumps talent, and decides to take a stand. LA is plunged into a state of excited trepidation as the Slasher embarks on a trail of abduction and punishment, selecting each victim to support his social statement. Every step of his journey is broadcast online using the social media that created and maintains the fame of these ‘stars’ against them. Instead of being outraged, the public supports the Slasher, empathizing with his cause. Audiences find themselves on the same journey as the flamboyant Slasher as he guides us on this humorous tale of terror.



Official Trailer For “The Possession Of Michael King”


2The official trailer has been released for upcoming paranormal horror “The Possession Of Michael King”. The film lands in theatres on August 22nd, with Blu-ray/DVD available August 26th, 2014. “The Possession Of Michael King” is directed by David Jung and stars Shane Johnson, Dale Dickey, Tomas Arana, Julie McNiven. This one is looking to be one really creepy , awesome thriller-as long as all the shock and thrill moments are on point.

The film tells the story of documentary filmmaker Michael King (Johnson), who doesn’t believe in God or the Devil. Following the sudden death of his wife, Michael decides to make his next film about the search for the existence of the supernatural, making himself the center of the experiment – allowing demonologists, necromancers, and various practitioners of the occult to try the deepest and darkest spells and rituals they can find on him – in the hopes that when they fail, he’ll once and for all have proof that religion, spiritualism, and the paranormal are nothing more than myth. But something does happen. An evil and horrifying force has taken over Michael King. And it will not let him go.

Trailer For “Sharknado 2: Aftershock”


1The trailer has been released for SyFy’s “Sharknado 2: Aftershock” , set to debut July 30th, 2014. The film stars Ian Ziering, Tara Reid, Mark McGrath, Kari Wuhrer, Vivica A. Fox and Judah Friedlander, with cameo appearances including Kelly Osbourne, Judd Hirsch, Perez Hilton, Matt Lauer, Al Roker, Andy Dick, Robert Klein, Sandra “Pepa” Denton, Biz Markie, Downtown Julie Brown, Richard Kind and Kurt Angle. “Sharknado 2” is directed by Anthony C. Ferrante.

In Sharknado 2: The Second One, the sequel to last summer’s global pop culture sensation, a freak weather system turns its deadly fury on New York City, unleashing a Sharknado on the population and its most cherished iconic sites.







Monday, July 7, 2014

Trailer Released For “The Man In The Orange Jacket”


1Check out the first official trailer for Latvian thriller “The Man In The Orange Jacket”. The English language film is directed by Armenian filmmaker Aik Karapetian and will premiere at Fantasia Film Festival this month. “The Man In The Orange Jacket” stars Anta Aizupe, Maxim Lazarev, and Aris Rozentals.

A young man gets fired and begins to stalk his boss and his young wife. After blood chilling turn of events he tries to escape his past and move into their luxurious mansion. Nothing can prepare him for an unsettling visit by a vaguely familiar guest. The house will not be a safe haven anymore, but becomes a twisted and dangerous trap.






Verite Cinema In Production On New Horror Anthology “Volumes Of Blood”

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Five tales of dread interwoven when a sociology student gathers several of his friends at the local library to help him create a new urban legend with deadly consequences; Lily is in for a late night of researching and needs something to keep her going. It isn't until she's approached by a mysterious stranger that her luck may change... for the worse; a typical night of work for a librarian becomes a classic ghost story with a modern twist.

Sometimes you can't keep a bad book down; Sidney is allowed to stay after hours to study for a test. It's not until she suddenly awakens in the darkened library that she realizes the horrifying truth of what lurks among the stacks of books after midnight. She better pray she doesn't become the prey; Paige faces regrets that she'd do anything to take back. When an ancient and arcane spell book literally falls into her lap, she decides to make a grave decision. Be careful what you wish for, it might just kill you.


Volumes of Blood Teaser Poster 2 smallVerite Cinema is in production on a new horror anthology produced through their Unscripted Film School program at the Daviess County Public Library. “Volumes of Blood” is produced by Jim Blanton and P.J. Starks the team behind the indie horror short Lucky. The production will take place from August through November 2014; where 5 indie horror directors will create their visions of terror in Owensboro, KY with an all local/regional cast and crew.

The films are:
That’s A Wrap! – Directed by DP Bonnell (Happy Hooker Bang Bang) A Little Pick Me Up – Directed by John Kenneth Muir (The House Between) Ghastly – Directed by P.J. Starks (Hallows Eve: Slaughter on Second Street) Encyclopedia Satanica – Directed by Nathan Thomas Milliner (A Wish For The Dead) 13 After Midnight – Directed by Jakob Bilinski (Three Tears on Bloodstained Flesh).

The forthcoming anthology was written by Todd Martin (Lucky & Nightmare Tales). P.J. Starks and Nathan Thomas Milliner (Scream Factory and HorrorHound Magazine artist). The film stars Jim O’Rear (Day of the Dead, Teen Wolf), Jason Crowe (Easter Casket, Back in the Day), Roni Jonah (Overtime, The Zombie Movie), Todd Reynolds (Hallows Eve, Bumsicle), Louisa Torres (Lucky), Julie Streble (Girl Number Three, A Wish For The Dead), Kevin Roach (Out of the Shadows, Bloody Hooker Bang Bang) and more.

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