Horror Retrospective

Review: Hannibal Retrospective (1991-2002)

2021-01-04T09:34:00.001-08:00

Short walk through of the progression of the Hannibal Lecter franchise. Man Hunter poster is the property of: De Laurentis Entertainment Group Silence of the Lambs poster is the property of: Orion Pictures Hannibal poster is the property of: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures and Universal Pictures Red Dragon poster is the property of: Universal Pictures Hannibal Rising poster is the property of: The Weinstein Company and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures

2016-07-04T15:10:00.003-07:00

Review: What The Peeper Saw (1971)

2016-07-04T15:10:00.000-07:00

What The Peeper Saw (1971)
Directed by: James Kelly
Starring: Britt Ekland, Hardy Krüger, Mark Lester,

Elise, the second wife of Paul, a well known author, begins to suspect that her 12 year old stepson Marcus murdered his mother, who is said to have passed away from a heart attack.

My Thoughts: The film has a Gialloesque Hitchcock like quality to it. We follow along with the story of Elise, a woman who is half the age of her husband. She deals with scrutiny from family friends as well as from her stepson. Elise cannot seem to get a straight answer from her husband Paul or stepson Marcus in regards to the death of Sarah, Paul's first wife.

It is also obvious Marcus is sexually interested in Elise and wants her for himself. He is intellectually mature for a twelve year old, and it is also clear that he is emotionally disturbed. The situation is so well crafted by Marcus, that practically everyone is eating out of his hands and taking his word over Elise. At this rate it isn't long before Elise is hospitalized. By the end both stepmother and stepson seem to have reached an understanding, and then the double cross.

I've always preferred older films regardless of genre and I really did enjoy the Hitchcock like feel to this film. Granted it is obvious who was responsible for the death of Sarah, but the real journey is not in the how or why, but rather what happens afterward.

Stars Moves Forward With 'Evil Dead' Show

2014-11-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Bruce Campbell is set to reprise his role as Ash in an upcoming 'Evil Dead' series which has just received a greenlight from Starz to move forward with production. According to the program description, it does not appear much has changed for the iconic character originally portrayed by actor Bruce Campbell in the 1981 feature film The Evil Dead. The character of Ash appears to have remained an S-Mart employee living a fairly mediocre life; that is until the deadites show up and Ash must once again set aside his cowardly ways in order to save himself.

Sam Raimi is set to executive produce the series, as well as writing and directing the first episode. Robert Tapert will be also be joining the project as executive producer.

The 'Evil Dead' series also marks the second time Starz will be working with Sam Raimi and Robert Tapert; the first partnership was on 'Sparticus'.

The original announcement for an 'Evil Dead' series had come during Comic Con as Sam Raimi gently teased about the development of a possible show in development.

Jared Leto to Play The Joker in Suicide Squad?

2014-11-10T20:58:00.001-08:00

According to The Hollywood Reporter and The Wrap; Actor and singer, Jared Leto has been in talks with Warner Bros. about playing The Joker in the upcoming Suicide Squad. The film has been set for an August 5, 2016 release date. The role of The Joker is speculation at the moment as representatives for Leto or Warner Bros. have yet to confirm whether or not the actor will be playing the role.

The Suicide Squad is a group of super villains turned vigilante on a kamikaze mission for an opportunity to be pardoned for their crimes. Director David Ayer may be rewriting the script originally penned by Justing Marks; rumor is, this version of the script is to include The Joker.

Ryan Gosling had originally been considered for the role, but opted not to sign of for the project. Leto had also previously expressed an interest in Marvel's Doctor Strange, but it seems consideration for the role is being given to seasoned actors.

It is also inevitable, if Jared Leto were to accept the role, that his portrayal of The Joker will be compared to that of Heath Ledger. Perhaps that is something to be wary of, but this Joker would clearly be of a different time and place and it should not be assumed that these two Jokers are one and the same. Whether or not Jared Leto chooses to accept the role, his version of The Joker will clearly be his own creation and it will be interesting to see another take on such a well known character.

Thoughts on The Life of John Lennon

2014-03-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

After recently having viewed John Lennon: Love is All You Need, I can't help but feel a tinge of dissatisfaction with the documentary. I am vaguely familiar with the music of John Lennon and The Beatles; having been born in the early eighties and the younger sibling of recovering hippies; the music was rather enjoyable, but the band members themselves remained an enigma.I was hoping this documentary would have shed to light some of my curiosities regarding this once living legend.Unfortunately the documentary veers into a very strange direction as soon as mention of Yoko Ono is made.

The film has a very strong start and is rather entertaining and enjoyable.The archival footage featuring Lennon and The Beatles was very interesting and it was nice gaining some insight into the lives of these former giants. Seeing them being themselves and carrying on as regular people was very refreshing considering my only conception of them was nothing more than a bunch of drugged out rock stars.I genuinely did gain a lot more insight than I thought I would have taken from the film, but it would have been nice to see more on the bands cultural impact not only in England, but across the pond as well.

It was also enjoyable seeing and hearing from Lennon's former wife. I honestly was unaware of the fact that Lennon had been married previously and for such a considerable amount of time.Cynthia Lennon struck me as a very real and humble person who was not at all impressed with her husband's fame, but simply wanted to be with the man she loved.Mrs. Lennon's and thoughts also seemed very pleasant and uneventful of the events that occurred following the breaking of their union.

The documentary however does take a strange turn once Ms. Ono comes into the picture, and these events are also very reflective of the times Lennon and she were living in.The main focus from there on out seems to have become how Lennon changed drastically as a person, whether choosing different forms of artistic expression or becoming more reserved with his British sense of humor.I get the impression that the film became a smear campaign against Yoko Ono from there on out.The focus should not have been the changes she may or may not have brought upon John Lennon, but rather the positive influences she brought into the union and in his musical career. I don't feel Ms. Ono should constantly be seen as a scapegoat for The Beatles demise.She was merely a misunderstood person who happened along at an awkward moment within a talented man's life.

My main complaint against the documentary is that it does not seem to have been very well produced or thought out. The majority of the interviewees are not always named as they speak on screen, nor is their relation to Lennon disclosed.Cynthia Lennon for example is not referred to as Lennon's former wife, but rather must be deduced via context clues.This is very much the case with various other persons who appear throughout the film.

The Importance of Media in My Life

2014-03-01T08:49:00.001-08:00

Movies have always been a big part of my life; even as a child, family time consisted of sitting around the TV and watching Friday the 13th: The Series, Married With Children, or which ever program happened to be going on at the time... As I grew older movies gradually became a way of recalling certain periods during my childhood. Music has the same effect on the majority of the people I know, it may bring them back to a certain memory or event they had experienced or remind them of a certain period during their lives.

Film has always had this effect on me. I could literally walk through isles at the local video shop, point at a title and state what was going on in my life while that movie was in theater. Films have also been a great coping mechanism for me. Movies like 'Closer' or 'Moulin Rogue' have helped me get through heartaches and potential breakups. Sometimes a person needs time away from others in order to heal, but the emotional support these stories provided, prevented me from being completely alone. Its this aspect of communication which interests me most about cinema. The fact that a filmmaker can tell a story and may potentially touch the life of someone they have never met. To me, a movie is more than something to sit and watch while trying to till time.

Film throughout my life has served as a means to connect with others, whether trying to strike up conversation or make new friends; being provided with something to think about or give emotional support whether dealing with sadness, grief, or joy. Film and media in general in a very large part of everyone's life whether or not they may realize it. The film score is just as import as the film as it really helps to set the mood and may further enhance the emotional experience of the production. The film score for 'Candyman' for example is one of the most excellent film scores that I have ever heard and really makes the movie and can really illicit an emotional response. Music, film, and memories truly are a perfect union.

My time on this site has been brief and I have already quickly familiarized myself with the majority of the sites functions. I am no stranger to social and blog sites though. The majority of my early post was done via Live Journal, and later Blogger, Word Press, Twitter, and Facebook. I am looking forward to a long and successful term posting on this site as well.

How 'I Love Lucy' Influenced Modern Media

2014-03-01T00:22:00.000-08:00

Before the popularity of I Love Lucy, television shows had been produced in New York rather than California. Up until 1951, (the debut of I Love Lucy) there had been a clear separation between television media and Hollywood's motion picture productions. This great divide existed in part due to the easy accessibility of programs available on television sets. With audiences inclined to stay home for entertainment rather than going to movie houses and purchasing tickets; production companies were beginning to note a decline in their revenue. Consequently television and film productions viewed one another as rivals rather than recognizing the potential for a partnership which would mutually benefit both parties.
             I Love Lucy proved that the co existence between television and film media was a successful partnership. The deciding factor in submersing a television program into the traditional Hollywood film environment was solely based on Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz' insistence on remaining in California. Up until 1951 television had modeled itself on radio broadcast formats and had headquartered their productions in New York. Previously television productions were treated similarly to stage productions. Actors performed in front of a live audience while the program was being transmitted. As these transmissions and recording were done live, the television productions lacked the leisure of longer shoot schedules and editing which would have provided a more polished look.
             I Love Lucy not only changed the localization of television production, but also introduced a "Hollywood" approach in how television programs were shot and presented. Three cameras had been employed in recording in order to allow for choices between multiple film sets and angles which maximized the quality of the exhibition. Changes influenced by Hollywood presentation greatly benefitted the way programs were produced by integrating the filming techniques employed for features. Modern television shows, although no longer filmed before a live audience, still receive the same post production attention provided to major films. With the exception of distribution methods and budget, today's shows aren't much different from motion pictures. Perhaps none of these changes would have been possible had it not been foe Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz' insistence in keeping I Love Lucy's production in California which had become a ground breaking move for the show.
             Today most film companies such as Disney and Columbia Tri-Star also own broadcast networks in which original shows are produced and distributed. Ball and Arnaz opened the door for television more widely than they may have realized when they broke tradition and chose to keep their show California based.

Two Views on Mass Media

2013-02-12T21:18:00.002-08:00

Mass media has contributed far more to society than most people are aware. Media can provide for social outlets as well as providing a means for expression for individuals. Media has also provided visual and audio entertainment, news on national and local events, and provide information on products and services by way of advertisements.
             Levels of media can not completely be categorized into standalone units as various components build upon one another to create a complete experience. as much as the media is overlooked and taken for granted, society would not be able to function without some form of media presence in their lives.
             First thing in the morning people wake up to their clock radios and immediately they are bombarded by a combination of useless talk show banter, music, commercials, weather and traffic reports. One gains so much information while standing in front of their mirror one-two hours while getting ready for work. Information on how one should dress for the day can easily be gained from the weather report, the route one should take when heading out to work can be obtained from the traffic report, and so on.
             The subtle effects of advertising can can also be seen in commercials. Actors may be dressed in trendy clothing and dependent upon the target audience, the actors may also speak using slang. Advertizements serve as an educational tool for new products and services as well as providing the benefits of said items. In doe cases ads have contributed slightly more to the general media by providing a catch phrase such as "Where's the beef? or "Time to make the donuts." At times commercials may be attributed to shopping frenzies due to the popularity of a product such as the Cabbage patch doll, Tickle Me Elmo, or Furby.
             Music has also shaped trends such as clothing, hair styles, and make up. Fans often try to emulate their favorite celebrities. The ability to express one's self plays a huge factor as clothing is rarely regarded as a simple garnet by consumers, but an extension of who one ir or who one perceives one's self to be.
             Generally speaking, it would be very difficult for a person to survive any aspect of their lives without the media being present. In order to lead a media free life one would basically have to take up a hermit like existence in order to avoid hearing or seeing any advertisements. One would also be avoiding exposure to film and music.
             Essentially it would be impossible for society as a whole to survive without mass media because it makes up a very large part of our daily lives. The important its of media such as educational shows; just as much as the entertainment are located everywhere throughout one's daily activities.

Comparison of Bewitched and Charmed

2012-12-06T12:29:00.001-08:00

Bewitched is a show from the sixties which is definitely a lot more conservative than most television shows today. The show cast its two main characters in very traditional roles. Darren was the breadwinner and worked at a very stereotypical job for that time period. Darren’s job was in the advertizing business. Now a day’s the advertizing profession may not be as highly viewed as it once was. Samantha although far from average still represented the typical housewife. She didn’t have a job of her own and was dependent upon Darren for financial security. Samantha was simply expected to take care of the house, cook the meals, and look pretty. She herself stated in episode five after having upset her husband because he assumed that she had used witchcraft to come up with great ideas for his latest ad campaign; Samantha vowed to clean the home from top to bottom, have dinner prepared, and wear her most attractive dress. All of this was done in the form of a peace offering in order to apologize for upsetting Darren earlier in the episode regardless of the fact that she had not used magic and had absolutely no reason to make amends. The Samantha character for the most part comes off a submissive and more than willing to do what was expected of her rather than defend the fact that she had not done anything wrong. Treatment like that wouldn’t even be tolerated today, yet Samantha is very much a “Stepford Wife”.

It is a breath of fresh air however to hear people speak as though they had been properly educated. The vernacular used was pleasant, direct, and formal. Not once did I notice the use of slang or shortened word structure such as “can’t” being substituted for the phrase cannot. The show has a very clean cut presentation and always features well groomed and well dressed actors. Darren goes to work every day wearing a three piece suit. Samantha and the other women on the show are always featured in dresses or gowns depending on the occasion. House dresses although casual in comparison to the other clothing worn by the actors are usually up to the collar bone and do not extend below, and the hems of the dresses were no shorter than knee length. Not once during the five episodes viewed did I notice any of the adults wearing a tee shirt or cotton dress.

Bewitched definitely emphasized a formal attitude and points out the general values of middle upper class America. The husband was in a professional and successful position who also gained the admiration of not only his wife but his peers as well. The wife wasn’t expected to do more than take care of her husband and the home. A task she seems very pleased and content with.

Charmed was a series from the 90s which featured three sisters who become “do gooders” once their dormant powers are released. The show is more openly spiritual than Bewitched was. Bewitched was merely a show about a “magical” housewife. The first episode of Charmed opens with a woman at an altar preparing for a ceremony. Bewitched never made any reference to witchcraft or any religious practices. Charmed also works to relieve the stigmas and negative connotations most have about witches and witchcraft.

Episode two deals with Piper adjust to life as a witch and how she over comes the phobia that all witches are bad. She eventually overcomes this by stepping foot in a church. The show makes an effort to break down barriers and remind everyone that people are people regardless of their religious beliefs. Episode one of Bewitched brings up the topic of prejudice when Samantha tells Darren that she is a witch, but Charmed actually makes an effort to dispel the misconceptions and teach the general masses about the Wiccan belief system.

Both Bewitched and Charmed carry strong family values. Samantha played the part of the obedient and adoring wife who strove to work things out with her husband Darren. The three Hallowell sisters also share a strong family bond and look out for the well being of one another. They also had some slight differences that needed to be worked out at first

Charmed may not be as conservative as Bewitched was; granted Samantha was always well dressed and hardly work skin barring clothing. The Hallowell sisters often prance about in spaghetti strap shirts or midriff baring shirts. At times the skirts they wear have slits reaching to their upper thighs. Charmed definitely does have a lot more sex appeal as far as how the women are dressed, but at times there are segments with shirtless men as well. The show also isn’t as prudish as Bewitched either. Episode two of charmed also makes reference to Pru having sex on the first date with an old boyfriend. Although she is skittish on the topic her behavior in generally nonchalant on the topic. Those types of topics may not have been as commonplace on television in the 60s.

Charmed also features the Hallowell sisters as independent women who hold their own jobs as a means of financial security. All three women are within their early to mid twenties and already hold professional careers. Pru, the eldest work at an auction house, Piper is a chef running a restaurant, Phoebe who has recently moved back home is the only sister without a job, but has been searching for one. Regardless of the fact that one sister is jobless; all three are dependent upon themselves for their own financial well being. Unfortunately, Samantha Steven’s was perfectly happy staying home all day and tolerating her husband telling her what to do.

The major writing differences between the two shows is that Bewitched was always a simple straightforward plot which was neatly and easily wrapped up during the course of one episode, whereas Charmed employed the use of subplots and two part episodes sometimes in the form of a cliffhanger. Charmed's characters were far more developed as individuals and it was entirely believable that three women such as the Hallowell sisters could exist as they were presented as easily relatable.

View Log

11/9/12 Bewitched 2:38 P.M. Season One Episode One: I Darrin Take This Witch, Samantha 25 minutes viewed. First 1 ½ minutes narrated and emphasizes how typical Darrin and Samantha both are. After intro Endora, the over protective mother in law is introduced. Also touches on prejudice between witches and mortals. Dinner party segment shows Darrin’s jealous ex girlfriend trying to shame Samantha. Everyone speaks in a very structured and formal vernacular.

11/9/12 Bewitched 3:08 P.M. Season One Episode Two: Be It Ever So Mortgaged. 25 minutes viewed. The episode opens with a narration segment. Shows Samantha struggling to make breakfast as the narrator talks about “average, normal, suburban housewives” and how efficient they are. Endora makes a second appearance and Samantha suggests they meet. Endora sneaks around the house and appears in odd places ie. On a stair banister or on top a book shelf as she spies on Darren and Samantha. Darren suggests buying a house. Sam and Endora make a trip make a trip to check the place out. Episode 2 introduces nosy neighbor Gladys and her indifferent husband Abner. Gladys snoops as Sam and Endora do some light landscaping and house decorating. Continues the running gag with Endora refusing to cal Darren by the correct name.

11/9/12 Bewitched 3:38 P.M. Season One Episode Three: Mother Meets What’s His Name. 25 minutes viewed. Narrator opens with the time and patience needed in growing a garden. Cuts to Samantha reviving her dead flowers. Follows a welcoming committee and as dinner invitation for Samantha’s mother to finally meet Darrin. He still struggles with the idea of having a witch for a mother in law. One scene shows that Abner and Gladys sleep in separate beds. This is revealed as Gladys is spying into the Steven’s home using a pair of binoculars.

11/9/12 Bewitched 3:38 P.M. Season One Episode Four: It Shouldn’t Happen to a Dog. 25 minutes. Episode does not have a narrator to introduce beginning of show. Samantha is hosting a dinner party for one of Darren’s clients; Mr. Barker, who won’t stop bothering Samantha so she turns him into a dog. When Darren finds out what happened- he shows more interest in having Mr. Barker turned back into a man rather than showing concern for his wife who had been disrespected. Decency and morality are emphasized during a scene in which Samantha is out at night in her robe looking for the dog. Two officers encourage her to go home and they will get back to her once the dog is found. Samantha easily forgives Darren after punching Mr. Barker for hitting on his wife.

11/9/12 Bewitched 4:36 P.M. Season One Episode Five: Help, Help, Don’t Save Me. 25 minutes. Darrin scolds Samantha for trying to help him with his latest ad campaign and stubbornly refuses to use any of her ideas when he clearly saw that he was loosing the account. Constantly demanded of her during that evening for refusing to believe she cleaned the house and made dinner without the use of her magic. The argument causes her to leave him. They eventually make peace and she winds up coming up with a campaign that is purchased by the client.

11/9/12 Charmed 7:58 P.M. Season One Episode One: Something Wicca This Way Comes. 40 minutes. Episode opens with a woman conducting a ceremony and being murdered. Features a scene with two sisters playing with a spirit board before the board takes control of itself and spelling attic. One of the sisters finds a book of shadows and recites an incantation. The sisters soon begin exhibiting dormant powers.

11/9/12 Charmed 11:23 P.M. Season One Episode Two: I’ve Got You Under My Skin. 41:52 minutes. Further exploring the sister’s phobias on adjusting to their new lives. Features a demonic creature who steals youth. Also follows Pru on her job search. The show also addresses the struggles against the old connotation that all witches are evil. It also touches on the fact that their abilities cannot be used for personal gain.

11/10/12 Charmed 12:07 A.M. Season One Episode Three: Thank You For Not Morphing. 44:28 minutes. Follows the return of their father and a mysterious figure who keeps showing up at the house in various forms and attempting to take the sisters spell book.

11/10/12 Charmed 12:52 A.M. Season One Episode Four: Dead Man Dating. 44 minutes. Opens with a young man who is murdered on his birthday. He eventually finds Phoebe who is working at a hotel as a psychic. He needs help getting a proper burial before a gatekeeper can take his soul to hell.

1/10/12 Charmed 1:36 A.M. Season One Episode Five: Dream Sorcerer. 42 minutes. Guy invades the dreams of women who reject him. He uses this process to kill them. This man has developed a fixation on Pru and is determined to punish her for turning him down.

Marine Maddness: Orca (1977)

2012-05-04T21:59:00.003-07:00

Orca also known as Orca: The Killer Whale is the 1977 natural horror film directed by Michael Anderson. The film was poorly received due to its similarity to Jaws which was released two years prior, but later gained a cult following.

A selfish fisherman accidentally kills a pregnant orca, and her male takes up the task of avenging her. The Orca in the film has been highly personified so that the audience may identify with the wronged creature and feel that it's vengeful actions are justified.

The film opens with the music of Ennio Morricone which is both very peaceful and melancholy at once. It is a fitting theme for the movie for the film and properly sets up the emotional aspect which is later presented. The opening greatly focuses on the Orca frolicking, this is also the first and last time that we see the two mates together. The film does feature Nepo as the vengeful Orka, who briefly played alongside his true-life mate Yaka.

The captive whales are easily distinguishable from their life like replicas by the tell-tale "flopped" dorsal fin of captive Orcas. The replicas clearly display perfectly effect fins. The "stunt" whales were so well made that a group of environmentalist gathered to protest the ill transport of the models; mistaking them for actual Orcas.

Early in the film it is established that the intelligence of an Orca is superior to that of a human, and that the fetus resembles that of a human in it's early developmental stages.

The film even goes as far as showing the miscarried fetus fall from the dying female Orca and hit the deck of the ship, only to be callously washed off like garbage. It is a very sad and dramatic scene. The audience witnesses the male Orca's agony over having lost both it's mate and child both in the same day.

From then on the Orca is relentless in his pursuit of Captain Nolan (Richard Harris) and even goes as far as destroying Nolan's home. Eventually deciding that he has been tormented enough, Nolan takes to the sea and follows the Orca up to the Strait of Belle Isle, where the final battle takes place.

Films Viewed (January)

2012-02-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

Revolver (2005)
Heavy Metal 2000 (2000)
The Last Dragon (1985)
Against All Odds (1984)
Mortal Thoughts (1991)
Passion of the Mind (2000)
Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle (2003)
Half Light (2006)
Escape From L.A. (1996) Repeat
Another Happy Day (2011)

Fairy Tale Themed Horror Films, Past and Present

2012-01-26T20:49:00.000-08:00

The 90s were a high time for low budget horror infused fairy tales. Horror has always been an expanse and varied genre which can easily blend and utilize multiple elements. Some of these elements are easily displayed in films such as: 'Leprechaun' (1993), 'Rumpelstiltskin' (1996), 'Pinocchio’s Revenge' (1996), and the superbly produced Snow White: A Tale of Terror (1997). All of these films have taken these supposed children’s stories of moral and basically thrown caution to the wind.

Every possible dark element has been exposed and played up. In addition to some intentional comedic factors for example, Warwick Davis as the lecherous leprechaun skateboarding while in pursuit of his victims, or Max Grodénchik as the deal making dwarf, Rumpelstiltskin, whom at one point in the film chases after an eighteen wheeler in a go-cart

Low budget films have always had a broad sense of creativity in that nothing is off limits. This being said one wonders where the recent resurgence in fairy tale themed programs has spawned from. Last year brought us Red Ridinghood and this year alone we have a slew of other tales to look forward to such as:

Mirror, Morror the lighter toned more whimsical version of Snow White which will be released by Relativity Media and stars Julia Roberts as the Queen, and Lily Collins as Snow White

Roughly three months later, yet another version of the same tale will be released. This second version is set to be a darker tale which also focuses on the empowerment of Snow White. The woodsman set to kill her betrays the queen's orders (played by Charlize Theron) and teaches Snow White to defend herself.

Unfortunately, Hansel and Gretel: Witch hunters has been delayed until next year and will presumably remain unreleased, but there will also be a variety of children's film which will also contain fairy tale themes.

Piranhas and Theme Parks

2011-12-06T19:23:00.000-08:00

I remember watching Piranha Saturday morning when I was eight years old. This was my first experience with Rodger Corman and these little carnivorous fish. The thought of anything other than an alligator or shark attacking a person was intriguing to me, and the opening scene with the boy and girl at the pool was shocking. The thought of tiny little fishies taking out a couple was an entirely new concept for me. Before this film, I didn't even know what a Piranha was.

The film opens with a pair of backpackers coming upon an abandoned facility and taking a dip in their pool, unfortunately they were unaware of the fact that the pool happened to of been filled with a genetic strain of piranha which can withstand fresh water as well as salt water. Maggie, played by Heather Menzies, is then hired to track the missing children, but unwittingly drains the pool to find the bodies and also releases the Piranha into the local water supply. Maggie and her recruited partner Paul, played by Bradford Dillman, who are now in a race to stop the Piranha and save the children at a near by summer camp. The government also becomes involved and proposes poisoning the water supply in an attempt to kill off the impeding danger, but the fish bypass the attempt. Paul then decided to release some submerged waste into the water in a vain attempt to kill off the fish, but some manage to survive and arrive at a beach.

I really appreciate the various aspects of the film despite the fact that this is a B film, it doesn't take itself too seriously and does take the time to poke fun at itself as well. There are also moments of anti-government protests in the film as well as environmental undertones.

Piranha was filmed at the once prosperous Aquarena Springs theme park in San Marcos, Texas; which featured underwater shows and Ralph the swimming pig; the park featured various rides as well. Aquarena Springs was one of Texas' first successful theme parks, but eventually went out of business due to the arrival of Sea World and Fiesta Texas. Texas State University eventually purchased the dying park and turned it into Aquarena Center, which has now become part of their research facility and also does feature a scuba class.

"Unmasking" the Fiction

2011-11-21T21:33:00.000-08:00

Texas Chainsaw Massacre is the story of five friends on a road trip to visit the grandparent’s house of one of the group members. Although advertised as being based on true events, the story is entirely fictions.

Our protagonist’s first fatal flaw is trust and the belief in the kindness of others. One may not fully consider the stop at the gas station and asking directions to the nearest facility, but would it not make better sense to assume the lack of gas at the station is a premeditated effort to lure and prey upon stranded travelers. The group’s second act of generosity was in picking up the hitchhiker near the slaughter house and received quite a fright in return. Their third and final mistake lies in the group separating. Kurt and Pam abandon their mission to find the watering hole in favor of going next door and asking for some gas. Both have good intentions in order to assist the group with the previously mentioned fuel dilemma, but make the mistake of trusting the unknown neighbors when going over to ask for help and are met with an untimely end. Sally and Franklin also stray and in turn she loses her brother and her sanity.

The film basically follows the three strikes rule of any slasher. Those who separate, intoxicate, or fornicate will die. Although breaking away from the groups is their only crime; trust is their fatal flaw and more than enough to have been attacked, tortured, or killed.

I first saw TCM back during my Jr. High days. It was this old unrestored bootleg which first introduced me to the most insane slasher I’d ever seen. The true “meat” of the film was a complete 360 from the semi-slow paced character development filled intro. The sheer madness of the house alone is enough to cause one to gawk in wonder. I loved the personalization that went into the home , it really drives the point that the house really is occupied by cannibalistic psychopaths. The disarray also drives the point that these people have occupied their home for some time, they have been preying upon travelers and anyone unfortunate enough to step foot on their property. This truly is their lifestyle. The bone room is my favorite in the house. We have everything from furniture made from human remains, cookware, feathers scattered about the floor, and a random chicken in a cage.

The film was released 1974 and distributed by Bryanston Pictures and premiered October 1, 1974 in Austin, Texas. The false marketing of being a “true story” attracted large audiences. Hooper the film would receive a PG rating due to the minimal use of blood. After cutting the film slightly, it received an R rating. TCM is thought to also of had the most influence and setting standards for modern slashers. Everything from large, hulking antagonists using power tools on their victims. Ridley Scott has stated the film was an inspiration for Alien. Director Alexandre Aja also feels the film has influenced his early career, as well as the more obvious Rob Zombie feature House of a 1,000 Corpses

30 Years of Evil Dead

2011-11-14T18:58:00.000-08:00

It's been thirty years since The Evil Dead first debuted October 15, 1981. The film was written and directed by Sam Raimi and stars Bruce Campbell, Ellen Sandweiss, Betsy Baker, Theresa Tilly, Hal Delrich and wasbased on the original short Within the Woods which served as a 30min prototype for promotion and investment opportunities for the full length feature. Upon release The Evil Dead was met with mixed reviews and did considerable better after having received an endorsement from horror author Stephen King. The original working title of the film was Book of the Dead, but was later changed to The Evil Dead as it was felt the title would sell more tickets.

The film opens with five Michigan State University students on a weekend get away in the woods. Insinde the cabin they find a book and recorder. Demons are summoned upon playing the cassette containing Sumerian incantations. One by one the five fiends fall victem until only Ash remains. He battles and prevails over demonic beings and as the closing scene is presented we see share a first view perspective with a looming force charging through the woods and descending upon our champion.

Evil Dead is definitely a great film and well worth the time. The majority of my childhood I'd been in search of the ultimate horror film and had always heard about how much this movie had scared my eldest sister and her husband during their first viewing; of course those were the days of VCR and turn dial television, so unfortunately no one wanted to get up to turn it off; it also may not have helped they they loved out in the country at the time. My first experience watching this film had been quite similar. My mum had gone out to the dance and I had stayed home with my rentals. I had paired a very demonic double feature: The Evil Dead and The Exorcist. It was the most the most awesome thing I have ever seen which scared me shitless. Even though The Evil Dead no longer terrifies me the way it did upon the first initial viewing; it will always have my respect for being one of the first films to me me fell that kind of terror.

Evil Dead 2 was also directed by Sam Raimi and produced by Robert Tapert, Ivan Shapiro, and Bruce Campbell. This film falls into the retroactive continuity feature category as the film back tracks and retells the events from the previous movie. This was done because the film makers were now going business with Rosebud Releasing and were unable to secure the rights to their film from the previous company they had dealings with. As they were unable to obtain rights to their stock footage; the film events were altered to accommodate for the events surrounding the production.

In this film Ash is headed to the cabin for a weekend getaway with his girlfriend Linda. Once again the book of the dead (now referred to as Necronomicon Ex-Mortis) and the tape recorder containing the incantations resurface. Linda becomes possessed and is beheaded. Ash is temporarily possessed as well but recovers at daybreak. Eventually it becomes necessary to sever his hand as it is attempting to kill him. The professor's daughter arrives only to be thrown into the madness. Annie discovers an incantation to send the demons back to their dimension, unfortunately Ash is swept up into the debris and is transported as well.

This second installment of the franchise introduced the horror comedy genre and opened up a whole new door for filmmakers and moviegoers alike. I was eight the first time I saw Evil Dead 2; I had never heard of it and didn't even know what it was, but the blood sprays were enough to get my attention enough to sit down and watch the remainder of the film.

Army of Darkness was a complete breakaway from the series all together and provided slapstick humor more than anything. We pick up with Ash having landed in the middle ages and being mistaken for a deadite and taken into captivity. After having bested the demons in the pit, Ash is granted hes freedom and hailed as a savior. Upon retrieving the Necronomicon Ex-Mortis, Ash misquotes the words and brings destruction upon the land. Reluctantly accepting his role as defender, Ash prevails and is returned to his time; only to battle demons once more.

This was the first official Evil Dead film I ever watched (being to young to realize the franchise it spawned from). My niece and I watched the movie and quoted it back to one another on occasion. It's one of those great films that does not follow it's own rules and isn't afraid to break tradition and introduce something completely new.

Sympathy for a Bad Guy

2011-11-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Bad Guy is grotesque, disturbing and makes no excuses. It is the self destructive tale of a man with desires. An obsession with a prim, well-to-do co ed who snubs him upon their first meeting. To prove that she isn't too good for him Han-ki (played by Cho Jae Hyun) sets a trap and pulls Sun-wha (played by Seo Won) into his depraved surroundings. An underworld filled with gangsters and prostitution. Sun-wha's life in the Red Light District is filled with a heavy sense of hopeless determination, yet she manages to cope with the existence thrust upon her. After running away and suffering a re-abduction, Han-ki takes her to a beach where they witness a woman commit suicide. Sun-wha gather's up the bits of torn photos left behind by the self-destructive woman; only later to find the missing pieces and realized the pictures depict Han-ki and the deceased woman who strongly resembles herself. Upon realizing this, Sun-wha (having been granted her freedom) decides to remain with her captor.

Kim Ki-duk, best known for eccentric and controversial films has a way of presenting disturbing, depraved themes and challenging his audience with not only thinking about the material presented, but also finding the true beauty as well. Ki-duk isn't afraid to present heavily digested themes and bring the often ignored into direct light.

Films Viewed (October)

2011-10-31T21:33:00.000-07:00

Rise: Blood Hunter (2007)
Anatomy (2000)
The Three Amigos (1986) Repeat
Anatomy 2 (2003)
The Cavern (2006)
The Cottage (2008)
I'll Always Know What You Did Last Summer (2006)
Boogeyman 2 (2008)
Red Sands (2009)
Flesheater (1988)
Hack (2007)
Candy Stripers (2006)
Night of the Creeps (1986)
The Devil's Chair (2008)

Screenings:

The Evil Dead
The Evil Dead 2: Dead by Dawn
Army of Darkness

Purchases:

Army of Darkness (1993)
Natural Born Killers (1994)
Clash of The Titans (1981)
Event Horizon (1997)
Arachnophobia (1990)
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)
Elvira's Haunted Hills (2002)
Trick 'r Treat (2008)
Grace (2009)
Perfect Creature (2006)
My Name Is Bruce (2006)

A Brief Overview

2011-10-23T17:54:00.000-07:00

Born June 22, in Royal Oak Michigan and best known for The Evil Dead Trilogy; Bruce Campbell has also starred in many cult films such as Maniac Cop, Escape from LA and Bubba Ho-Tep. Campbell has also enjoyed mainstream success playing Autocalyus, and playing lead in The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. and Jack of All Trades. Campbell's most recent venture is playing Sam Axe on USA Network's Burn Notice.

Campbell's development began shooting short films with friends; eventually shooting the thirty minute feature Within the Woods which would become the basis for The Evil Dead. The film did not achieve immediate success, but did considerably better and gradually gained distribution after receiving an endorsement from horror author Stephen King.

Aside from acting, Bruce Campbell has also voiced Ash for the Evil Dead games: Hail to the King, Fistful of Boomstick, and Regeneration. Bruce has also voiced the mayor in 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs' and Red "Torque" Redline in 'Cars 2'

Campbell has also authored two books: 'If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor' and 'Make Love the Bruce Campbell Way' Mr. Campbell has stated he plans to work on a third book.

Most complete video I could find. Sorry about the quality.

Love Letter to A Man 25 Years My Senior

2011-10-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

Meeting Bruce Campbell two weeks ago definitely was an awesome experience; granted it was some time ago, and I'm still buzzing about it. How often does anyone get the chance to meet someone they have admired throughout their childhood? The thought of it makes me giddy. Although I didn't watch The Evil Dead until High School, (which scared me thoroughly) I was familiar with Campbell through Hercules and Xena, and I also confess to having a crush on Autocalyus.

Campbell's character's have always been quirky, humorous, and charming; one thing I had not realized is how much of his true personality actually shines through his roles, which only makes me more curious about what he's like in his day to day life.

It was a great experience which I will always cherish. The trip itself was wonderful!

Massacre on a Low Budget

2011-10-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

Nail Gun Massacre; also known as Texas Nail Gun Massacre was released in 1985 by Magnum Entertainment. Director Terry Lofton realized early on that the limited budget would greatly influence the quality of the film and so he played up the comedic aspects of the film.

Part of what makes this film so enjoyable is the it does not takes itself seriously. Everything from the canned acting, cheesy dialogue , and unbelievable murder sequences are part of what has made this film a low budget success.

I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from the film; it had first come to my attention through a news subscription from Texas Frightmare Weekend in association with Fantastic Fest and was advertised as "a movie for humans who hate humans and movies." This odd description is what caught my attention. It was also an opportunity to catch a rare screening of a film I had never heard of. The shared experience of watching Nail Gun Massacre with an audience definitely was an enjoyable one.

The film is filled with goofy moments, but my favorite has to be the one starring Lofton's grandmother who delivers my favorite line "Remember the days when no mosquitoes or killers would bother you?" She was also the actual store clerk at that particular film location. She had been asked to stand in when the original actress never showed the day of the shoot, unfortunately Mr. Lofton's grandmother would later come to regret her decision to appear when she later realized how much nudity was in the film.

30 Second Mini-Review: The City of Lost Children

2011-09-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

Very much along the lines of a warped fairy tale for adults; the story centers around a crazed inventor which for some reason is unable to obtain sleep so he takes to abducting children in order to rob them of their dreams, but his menacing presence only causes the children to feed him nightmares and so a quest is taken in order to find the one who does not fear him.

Wonderful plot, definately draws the audience into the alternate reality like atmosphere; as well as background information is slowly revealed about each character, thus giving each persona a more three dimensional feel. Also not so subtily implied pediophelic romance between Miete and One.

Definately a must see and if you enjoyed this title you should definately see: "The Cook, the Thief, his Wife, and her Lover"

Hannibal Retrospective

2011-09-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

Set in the WWII era, this fourth installment of the ever growing Lector legacy chronicles young Hannibal’s ascent into darkness. As we follow our fiendish anti-hero’s origin in the well bread world in which he was brought up, and witnessed the mindless slaying of his parents as well as the murder and feasting of his sister; acts which set off a methodical chain reaction of vengeance.

This installment however, falls short of the grotesque, psychological thrills set up by it’s predecessors; rather, this film is more an in depth analysis of the events which altered the life of Lector and reshaped him into the being most are well acquainted with. Though sutally analytical; the film also radiates symbolic undertones as well. (I.e. The rejection of Lady Murasaki; Gong Li’s character, which not only could have redeemed Lector, but save his humanity as well).

Despite the sudden change of tone in the franchise; casual movie goers will find disappointment due to the lack of action. Hannibal Rising is definitely an elitist film as opposed to the “low brow” films the “common man” is most comfortable with.

Gospard Ulliel makes his American debut in the title role, and if this twenty something actor seems familiar; audiences may recognize Ulliel from his short international breakout role in ‘Brotherhood of the Wolf’ (2001). It was this roll which got the ball rolling and allowed him to further pursue an acting career.

Filmography

Hannibal (2007)
The Last Day (2006)
A Very Long Engagement (2004)
Strayed (2003)
Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001)

In the role of Lady Murasaki, we find Gong Li; also no stranger to American and international audiences; Ms. Li first gained notice in the 1987 release ‘Red Sorghum, a widely publicized film which made her a household name. ‘The story of Qui Ju (1992) is regarded as her most noteworthy film. And if Ms. Li is still doesn’t seem familiar, one may recognize her from ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ (2005) or ‘Miami Vice’ (2006). Often regarded as an ‘actress of elegance and strong presence; capable of holding the interest of foreign and domestic audiences alike’.

Selected Filmography

Hannibal Rising (2007)
Miami Vice (2006)
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
The Story of Qui Ju (1997)
Red Sorghum (1987)

Hannibal Rising written by the reclusive, media shy Thomas Harris, born 1940 in Jackson, Tennessee; later relocating to Rich, Mississippi; Mr. Harris attended college at Baylor University in Waco, Texas on a journalism scholarship.
Harris began his career as a crime journalist. Inspired by the 1972 Olympics in which eleven Israeli athletes were killed; Harris wrote Black Sunday, which was adapted into the 1977 film depicting a terrorist attack on a football stadium; involving a blimp (not to be confused with ‘Black Sunday’ [1960]).

Bibliography

Black Sunday (1975)
Red Dragon (1981)
Silence of the Lambs (1988)
Hannibal (1999)
Hannibal Rising (2000)

The Hannibal legacy though quick to gain popularity did have its humble beginnings: the 1986 television film ‘Man Hunter’ (adapted from the 1981 novel Red Dragon). The movie’s reputation grew like wild fire and the 1991 theatrical release ‘Silence of the Lambs’ soon followed. ‘Hannibal (2001); the next installment in the series picks up from where the previous feature left off (this time picking up a “Beauty and the Beast” undertone). 2002 Brought the last real sequel; ‘Red Dragon’, which technically is a remake of the ’86 television movie ‘Man Hunter’(a feature in which Lector plays a minor role).

*Frankie Faison plays Barney, the orderly in all four films with the exception of ‘Hannibal Rising’.

Hannibal-ography

Man Hunter (1986)
Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Hannibal (2001)
Red Dragon (2002)
Hannibal Rising (2007)

Recommendations (based on similarity):

Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The beginning (2006)
Ed Gien (2001)
Young Poisoner’s Handbook (1995)

Equus (1977)*

Massacre Tour (1/3)

2011-07-09T15:44:00.000-07:00

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Took a day trip out to see the TCM house yesterday. It was a great trip and we had so much fun running around the house taking photos and videos. We actually got there when they were closed to prepare for the dinner crowd, but they were kind enough to let us in to look around. We later returned and had dinner there. The food was definitely worth the drive out there. It stank not being able to pick up wifi out there, I was dying to upload some of my pictures all day!

Front view of the house

Front Porch

Crab cake appetizer

Chicken fried chicken

Coconut Shrimp

Key lime Pie and Raspberry Sauce

Upstairs display

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Films Viewed (June)

2011-07-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008)
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)
Grown Ups (2010)
The Hot Chick (2002)
The Bounty Hunter (2010)
Southpark: Bigger, Longer, Uncut (1999)
How it All Went Down (2003)
Friday (1995)
Tyler Perry's I Can do Bad All by Myself (2009)
Return to Me (2000)
Farewell My Concubine (1993)
Beerfest (2006)
Sweptaway (2002)
The Insatiable (2007)
Jade Warrior (2006)
Highway to Hell (1991)
The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Natural Born Killers (1994)
A Dirty Shame (2004)
They Live (1988)
Cleopatra (1963)