The Ringmaster's Realm

Porkchop (2010)

2012-02-09T22:40:00.000-05:00

Growing up during the 1970s and 1980s, the no budget to low budget slasher flick was a staple in my youth. I remember stopping at the video store every afternoon on my way home to see if there were any new movie posters or strange videos had arrived. Now that I have grown-up, I still love watching those when I get the chance and when I can find a modern no budget indie flick (especially ones filmed in somewhat local areas like Charleston, WV) that pays homage to those days; I love it even more. Fortunately, it seems like flicks like that are becoming common again, first with Shriek of the Sasquatch last weekend and now I find, 2010s Porkchop.

Plot/ The story of a group of young campers headed off into the wilderness for a weekend of partying at an abandoned summer camp only to discover they are not alone and the camp's inhabitant, a deranged redneck with a pig mask, is not pleased with their presence.

Let me start by saying that many will watch this movie, destroy it for every flaw, and not quite understand the genius of what it is. This is a throwback to the 1980s and the low budget to no-budget campy slasher flicks that defined the big box VHS era. True fans will know exactly what I am talking about, when Wizard Video, Gorgon and Paragon ruled the video store shelves. Technically, this flick has many flaws; poor scripting, choppy footage, uneven acting, and bad pacing, they are all there (which in a typical film review would be total detractors). However, this movie is a blast and they did a great job at presenting an authentic feel for the 1980s camp slasher (down to the stranger throwing out a foreboding warning). Sure, there could have been more gore (and boobs), but that is because the effects were actually good in the death scenes (robot sex, really?) and I wanted to see more (just like my teen years). In the end, if you like 1980s period no-budget slasher entertainment, you will love this one. Yes, this may be a train wreck of a flick, but it is one entertaining train wreck!

Fright Night (2011)

2012-02-08T23:11:00.000-05:00

The original Fright Night was one of my favorite 1980s flicks; I remember watching it many times on VHS. When I first saw the advertisements for the remake, I was unsure what to expect. As many fans of horror already know, the recent trend of remakes have been far from impressive, in fact, many just suck! For the longest time I resisted the temptation to sit down and watch the remake, I did not want to be disappointed again by a subpar moneymaker. Finally, this past weekend I got it as a free rental, so what the Hell, Fright Night 2011 (at least we will not have sparkling vampires in this one).

Plot/ A remake of the 1985 original, teenager Charley Brewster guesses that his new neighbor Jerry Dandrige is a vampire responsible for a string of recent deaths. When no one he knows believes him, he enlists Peter Vincent, a self-proclaimed vampire killer and Las Vegas magician, to help him take down Jerry.

One thing about remakes or re-inventions of classic films is the director’s have some liberties in changing some of the small details from the original to something that works a tad bit better (awesome when used properly – but, unfortunately it is usually overlooked). That is exactly what is done in this edition and it does add something to the storyline. The idea to stay true to the original plot (and some campiness) while moving the setting to Las Vegas, and changing the Peter Vincent character really works. In all, most of the movie is fun and entertaining; complete with solid character development, good performances and the right mix of mood, tension and horror (the soundtrack was awesome). On the downside, some of the CGI effects took away from the overall feel. Of course, this is being overly critical as I am not a fan of CGI, and honestly, some were good. At the end of the night, this flick may lack scares, but it is pure entertainment marrying a modern twist to a 1980s classic. I totally recommend this one for anyone; it definitely shows why a true vampire will never sparkle.

PlayHouse (2003)

2012-02-08T20:21:00.000-05:00

I am a sucker for low-budget or no-budget horror, especially when they are filmed in the local area (Pittsburgh). Having watched the low-budget snoozer yesterday, I was actually cringing a little at the thought of watching the next flick I have sitting here. Fortunately, I sucked it up and decided to watch PlayHouse (2003).

Plot/ After years hiding in the shadows, the ancient ghosts of an old Pittsburgh theater make their presence known once again. When theater employees and students start dropping like flies # and in gruesome fashion - a bumbling detective and two incompetent local cops start a hilariously spooky and disgusting search for the truth. Five students may have what it takes to find the answer... but will they survive the search? Will they be terrified? Will girls run around in their underwear?... Yes. Discover the secrets of the PlayHouse.

Wow, nothing like two no-budget Indie flicks in a row for me (at least this one is based near home in Pittsburgh)… However, while this flick comes across as a no-budget entry, there is definite some potential here inside Hunter F. Roberts one-man show. Yes, the sound ranges from good to poor, the storyline is all over the place, the sets are below average and there are some hiccups in the technical arena, but somehow, there is something entertaining and somewhat original inside. Once this black comedy starts rolling, it feels like a tribute to some of the great semi-comedy horror classics to the past (complete with the characters, blood and guts). One thing biggest surprises, besides the large amount of very good effects featuring blood, an allotment of bodies and limbs and puke, was the acting, which was actually decent in most cases (the costuming – Not so much). While this flick is not for everyone, fans of no-budget horror should enjoy it (and get some laughs). If you do not like that type of faire, stay away.

Mr. Jingles (2006)

2012-02-07T21:04:00.000-05:00

As the week progresses, I have to finish watching the flicks I picked up this passed weekend before they are do back at the local Family Video Store. With my Monday a wash with the combination of House, Alcatraz and Castle, I decided to fit it a flick tonight before The River comes on. My choice for the evening is the 2006 horror / comedy Mr. Jingles.

Plot/ An innocent man is imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. He suffered for years in prison and finally escaped to take his revenge on the guilty, and their families. That terrifying night four families had fallen victim to this new embodiment of evil. Angie Randal is the exception to the rule; she is the only one to survive the clown named Mr. Jingles.

All I can say is Wow! Honestly, when I started watching this, I actually expected a trip into B-Movie schlock, unfortunately, I found the cheese, but it was more of a D or F Movie vice B-Movie. From the outset, this flick relishes in its flaws by running the gambit. There is uneven to bad acting, poor dialogue, a confusing storyline and some of the most unbelievable special effects I have ever seen. I will admit that I did get a great laugh at how easily people fell to the killers blows and how clean his knives stayed even with the gallons of blood flying everywhere; it was truly unreal. In the end, I should at least give it some credit as a ultra low-budget independent horror / comedy, as it was at least decently entertaining and had some potential. Now, I will not go out there and recommend it to everyone, but if you want to laugh and cry at something unbelievably bad, check it out!

When A Stranger Calls (2006)

2012-02-06T20:50:00.000-05:00

As I said in an earlier blog, Jillian picked out a few movies to watch this past weekend. Having a young daughter who is a Sci-Fi / Horror fan is a challenge. While I enjoy the fact that she has some darker movie interests, balancing what she can and cannot watch is a bit difficult at times. Fortunately, with the political correctness and conservatism that is destroying Sci-Fi and Horror running amuck, it is becoming easier to find something that fits my guidelines every time I go to the video store. Of her flicks, we have already watched both in the Planet of the Apes and now the 2006 version of When A Stranger Calls.

Plot/ During an otherwise routine babysitting gig, a high-school student is harassed by an increasingly threatening prank caller.

“The call is coming from inside the house,” I remember watching the original as a teen and having that line etched into my psyche. All these years later, it was an enjoyable afternoon watching this remake with my young daughter, hoping that it would have that lasting effect on her. Sure, this version is nowhere near the original failing to capture and maintain the dark feel of the original. Most of the acting was decent, the storyline solid and the cinematography pretty good. Unfortunately, there was really no characterization, no blood or no gore (and the suspenseful moments were rare). In the end, I truly preferred the original. My daughter loved the movie and was at the edge of her seat, but she has not seen the first one yet (and she is nine). Honestly, there are worse flicks out there, but if you have a chance, catch the original, it is much better.

Taken Too Early - Bill Hinzman - (October 24, 1936 - February 5, 2012)

2012-02-05T22:57:00.000-05:00

Earlier this evening, reports starting come in that Bill Hinzman has passed away at the age of 75. It is said that he died after losing his battle with cancer. Fans of Night of the Living Dead know Bill as the cemetery zombie in the landmark zombie film. Bill also appeared in George Romero’s The Crazies and Season of the Witch, among other horror films. In the late 80′s Bill Hinzman tried directed two of his own horror movies: The Majorettes and Flesh Eaters. Over the years, Bill Hinzman has appeared at numerous horror conventions and film festivals. Last year my daughter Jillian and I had the chance to meet Bill at the Saturday Nightmares Convention in New Jersey and I was blown away by him, not to mention it was a moment that Jillian will never forget. He is a horror movie icon that will be missed by generations of horror fans.

Necromentia (2009)

2012-02-05T20:02:00.000-05:00

As a Steelers fan, I tried to watch end enjoy the Super Bowl, I just could not do it. It honestly felt like I was taking a trip into Hell, just miserable. With that feeling already permeating my mind, I decided to take a trip into the depths as well with my movie selection for the evening. I mean, how could I go wrong with a flick that says it is a trip into Hell complete with blood, guts, murder, necrophilia, and an OUIJA Board? Got me there… The movie I chose instead of the Super Bowl is Necromentia from 2009.

Plot/ A off-world look at the superstitious repercussions of tattooing an Ouija Board on your body. Hagen, who has a dead wife believes that he can revive her from the dead. Travis, a man who lost his brother and wants to join him in the after life. Morbius, a bartender who is betrayed by those he loves comes back from the dead to take revenge. And a strange man only known as Mr. Skinny protects the secrets of the Ouija Board and how the stories weave and affect each other.

As a horror fan, I already know that being drawn in by the writings on a DVD cover can be dangerous, but when I saw the words Hellraiser Meets Saw, count me as one that had his interests perked. What I found when I sat down was something I never expected, something dark and melodic with a similar feel to the Clive Barker masterpiece it was compared to. This anthology-based flick is definitely all horror, complete with solid effects, decent acting, disturbing surreal imagery and an in-depth plot that really makes one think (plus some great torturous and bloody images). Yes, there are flaws like the abrupt ending that leaves you somewhat unsatisfied, some cliché characterization and uneven pacing. However, those are easily overlooked within this semi-original trip into the depths of this netherworld revisionist Hell. In the end, this is a great movie for fans of deep and dark horror, yes it has enough gore for gorehounds, but it is the disturbing story that takes the starring role, not just the blood and guts. Check this one out!

A Horrible Way To Die (2010)

2012-02-04T23:53:00.000-05:00

Now that Oddities is over and the girls have gone to sleep it is a great time to enjoy something a bit darker. While I do enjoy watching things with them, I definitely have to draw a line in what they can watch. Personally, I have little problems with movies and such, as I remember watching some of the great 1970s/1980s horror flicks with my parents at the theatre (Phantasm, The Fog, Friday the 13th, etc.) and I turned out pretty good. However, as society has changed for the worse and political correctness has gone overboard, I would not want to be accused of something stupid. To me, these cultural changes have gone a long way in creating the social problems that we face, as people are too consumed by everything and everyone else instead of what they should be focused on. Enough of that, the movie I chose for the evening is A Horrible Way To Die from 2010.

Plot/ Notorious serial killer Garrick Turrell has just escaped police custody and resumed his killing spree. His former girlfriend and recovering alcoholic Sarah has recently moved to a small Midwestern town and is trying to put her life back together. She regularly attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, where she meets fellow addict Kevin. Kevin is romantically interested in Sarah, but she remains withdrawn: her past continues to haunt her and may soon catch up with her, as Garrick is leaving a trail of bodies in his hunt to find her.

This character driven thriller is interesting in many ways. The spiraling and parallel storylines are dark and dismal; unfortunately, there is excessively much going on to grasp in one sitting, creating holes that are truly hard to overlook. Much of these holes are caused by the continuous use of flashbacks that skew the linearity of the film. I will admit, the cinematography is challenging to watch, as some of the scenes are artistically filmed, while others seem extremely out of place. Honestly, at times this makes the action decently disturbing. Yes, there is nothing new going on with this one, but it does boast some solid performances and some suspenseful moments (and a decent ending). While there is some bloody scenes, gorehounds will be a bit turned off as there is not in the way of gore or action. However, to me, the overall dark and moody feel and the heavy atmosphere more than make up for that. In the end, this decent independent thriller is much better than some of the others that have been released in the past few years. If you get a chance, check it out.

Planet of the Apes (2001)

2012-02-04T19:32:00.000-05:00

After returning the flicks from last week to Family Video, I let my daughter Jillian pick out a few flicks for the week (fortunately, Jillian is a huge horror fan). Not to my surprise she decided to grab a variety of interesting stuff. The first film we watched is the 2001 remake of Planet of the Apes.

Plot/ An Air Force astronaut crash-lands on a mysterious planet where the evolutionary process is reversed. Evolved apes are the dominate species and humans are primitive. He may discover secrets that would change the planet.

While there was no reason to ever remake the classic Planet of the Apes, Hollywood decided otherwise, and this entry is the result. Yes, there are some similarities between the films (even a cameo from Charlton Heston) , unfortunately, there was no way for Tim Burton’s vision to ever live up to the complex and visually stunning original (especially the ending). The idea behind this flick lacks the social commentary that set the 1968 version apart. Sure, there is the underlying fight for freedom, but the action scenes definitely overrun the storyline. Honestly, I did like the decision to bring more ape-like characteristics to the planet showing them running on all fours with a definite mean streak, to me, that is how I would imagine the species is one existed. On one side, the acting was OK, the tension so-so and there was little characterization (not to mention the ending was a bit unspectacular). However, the make-up effects and the action sequences did add a little something that the original lacked. In the end, I found this revision less appealing than the original, but then I grew up with the Planet of the Apes saga, something that would definitely influence my feelings (I am sure many like me would feel the same). That being said, my daughters actually enjoyed this version much more than the original with the overriding action / adventure feel; proving that people who have never watch the original will definitely enjoy it.

Planet of the Apes (1968)

2012-02-04T14:01:00.000-05:00

One of the great arts at watching Rise of the Planet of the Apes was that the daughters finally became interested in experiencing the entire Planet of the Apes story arc. Being a fan myself of the classic tales, and remembering the days when Superhost had them on Saturday afternoon’s, I decided it was time to break one out. Last night, it was time for the classic 1968 flick, Planet of the Apes.

Plot/ An astronaut crew crash lands on a planet in the distant future where intelligent talking apes are the dominant species, and humans are the oppressed and enslaved.

I am not sure what else I can say about a cinematic classic that has not been said already. The original Planet of the Apes is one of the best Sci-Fi films that has been made. Yes, some of it may seem a bit dated by today’s standards, but that does not in any way detract from the greatness created in 1968. The cast and performances are tremendous with Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter and Maurice Evans delivering in every scene. The direction, cinematography and soundtrack work in unison to capture the intricacies of the personal elements in the projected upside-down world, and they do this in a way that takes the vast sceneries to a new level; it is truly one of the most visually appealing Sci-Fi movies I have seen. The make-up effects are solid, and personally I love this original ape look more than the newer CGI incarnations and the ending may be one of the best ever in the science fiction arena. In the end, while chalked full of idealistic, religious, and humanity driven overtones, Planet of the Apes succeeds at taking on social consciousness and building something bigger and better and is truly one of the most entertaining and groundbreaking Sci-Fi films of all time. If you have not seen it, definitely check it out!

Circle (2010)

2012-02-03T20:01:00.000-05:00

Last night I decided to kick back and see what was available on one of the many movie channels I have on my cable system. Unfortunately, there was not much that I have not already seen or reviewed already. The flick I chose may not have been the greatest for my evening entertainment, the 2010 thriller Circle.

Plot/ The FBI and US Marshals pursue an escaped serial killer who is headed to his childhood home.

This basic tale on the typical glorified psychopath comes across in an uninspired way. Full of cliché, there was really nothing new at all. Yes, the basic premise did seem interesting with the numerology and Greek references, unfortunately, most of that was left undeveloped. There were a couple of good moments, but most is very predictable. The acting is so-so, storyline choppy and the ending is telegraphed a mile a way. When you couple that with zero gore and almost no character development, you guessed it; you have a snoozer on your hands. In the end, there is no way I could recommend this for anything more than a time-filler if no other options are available. In addition, I definitely would not waste money on it if that were the case.

Needle (2010)

2012-02-01T22:32:00.001-05:00

February has arrived and with it, my first retirement check from the government; truly an awesome moment… February is an important month to me, as my birthday is on the horizon and I am sure to have another amazing horror themed birthday cake (definitely one of the highlights of the year). February 1st is also National Signing Day for college football teams, and I have to say my Mountaineers had a very impressive class, one that should help keep Morgantown rocking as we head into Big 12 action. Enough on that though, to start the month out, I decided to kick back and review the interesting flick Needle (2010) prior to heading off to bed.

Plot/ After the death of his father, archaeology student Ben Rutherford inherits an 18th century mechanical device known as "Le Vaudo Mort". At a college party, he flaunts the machine in front of a group of his closest friends and later discovers that the machine has a sinister past and may harbor supernatural powers. After class, he returns to his dorm room to find that the contraption has been stolen. One by one, Ben's friends begin to die in strange and horrific circumstances. Now he must reunite with his estranged half-brother, Marcus, a forensic photographer, and delve deeper into their father's past to work out who is behind the grisly murders. As the terror mounts and the clues seem to suggest the unthinkable, a surprising twist will reveal the identity of the killer.

This teenage / college driven flick is definitely more of a mystery / thriller than straight horror movie. Overall, there are a lot of good things to say about this, the acting is solid, character development good, effects are decent and the storyline is decently original (at least the implement of death). Yes, the pacing is a bit slow as it focused on the characters and story more that the killings, there is little gore and the ending was rather anti-climactic. In the end, if you like character or story driven thrillers give it a shot, you can do worse. If you are a gorehound, stay away.

The Reef (2010)

2012-01-31T21:28:00.000-05:00

So, January is coming to an end. This has been a big month; starting the new job at PIA, celebrating Genesis’ birthday, and branching out with writing (working with the guys at Steelers101). Now, it is time to finish the month on a high not on the blog. My final review of the month is the shark movie, The Reef from 2010 (based on a true story).

Plot/ A great white shark hunts the crew of a capsized sailboat along the Great Barrier Reef.

Let me start by saying that this is one of the best shark movies that I have seen. This movie is put together really well, with solid cinematography that creates a realistic feel and a lot of tension throughout. The character development is sound, acting decent and it was refreshing to see a real shark in a movie vice the standard CGI or mechanical beast. Yes, the pacing was slow and the action was spread out, but this film definitely took a different route in creating its foreboding atmosphere. In the end, this is one of the better animal attack films to come out in some time, and one that is definitely worth watching.

Paranormal Activity 3 (2011)

2012-01-30T20:44:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, the end of another weekend is here, and back to work, I went. Overall, it was a decent day. Started lab with the sixth quarter class and completed the FCC licensing test for Radio Operator / Repair (now, I can teach that next quarter). As I am preparing to watch Alcatraz and Castle, I decided to finish some more of the flicks from this weekend, with the overhyped Paranormal Activity 3.

Plot/ In 1988, young sisters Katie and Kristi befriend an invisible entity who resides in their home.

You know, I am so glad that I waited to see this one at home instead of wasting valuable dollars in theatres. Honestly, with the majority of clips from the trailer missing from this version, I would have been even more pissed off had I spent more than the $2.86 on it. Yes, there were a few cool spots, the kitchen scene with the ghost, the hair pulling, and there was actually a bit of tension created. After that, it really went downhill, with uneven pacing, an unflattering ending and so-so performances. In the end, this story has gotten old and I really hope that this is the last installment. If you liked the first two installments, check it out only to complete the series, if you have not, do not waist your time.

Shriek of the Sasquatch! (2011)

2012-01-29T22:14:00.001-05:00

As someone who has researched Cryptozoological mysteries and the paranormal, I will admit that when I see filmmakers take these fringe scientific arenas and make fun of the source materials, I cringe. To me, I can understand the entertainment value, and even why the skeptical society would enjoy such flicks, but that does not mean that they should be taken for anything more than what they are. What is that? They are financial windfalls that prey on the deep-rooted fears of a brainwashed society; the sect that says that fringe sciences cannot exist because they are not in a textbook, or accepted by mainstream society or religion. To that, I say screw that and open your eyes to what surrounds you. That being said, while I do cringe, I do enjoy watching films based on famed creatures and mysteries. One such film is Shriek of the Sasquatch from 2011.

Plot/ Its 1979, Julie and Nick are on a road trip which puts them unwittingly on a collision course with Bigfoot. Will either of them survive to learn the secret of the Sasquatch?

Yes, Bigfoot is often put into a bad light in movies, and this one is no different. As usual on the big screen, the Sasquatch is a bloodthirsty maniac out to destroy everything in its path. Let me start by saying that many will watch this movie, destroy it for every flaw, and not quite understand the genius of what it is. This is a throwback to the 1970s and the cheesy grindhouse drive-in classics that made that decade great. Technically, this flick has many flaws; grainy footage, bad effects, uneven acting, they are all there (which in a typical film review would be total detractors). However, this movie is a blast and they did a great job at presenting an authentic feel for 1970s camp. Honestly, every aspect of the flick, from film quality to the props (down to the pop can), was spot on. In the end, if you like 1970s period schlock entertainment, you will love this one. Yes, this may be a train wreck of a flick, but it is one entertaining train wreck!

The Woman (2011)

2012-01-29T12:12:00.000-05:00

With my weekend almost over, I decided to get back at the blog by looking at some of the flicks that I caught so far this weekend. Honestly, this has been a very entertaining trip into the world of horror. The first movie I watched this weekend was one that I had never heard of, The Woman from 2011.

Plot/ When a successful country lawyer captures and attempts to "civilize" the last remaining member of a violent clan that has roamed the Northeast coast for decades, he puts the lives of his family in jeopardy.

When this movie walked into the house Friday, I did not know what I was in for, as I did not know anything about it. What I found was an extremely interesting and complex storyline combined inside a somewhat surreal family setting. There was a lot to like about this movie, which had just the right amount of gore and disturbing elements to keep me enthralled by the focus on the disjointed family aspects. Sure, there was nothing new in this one, as much of the torture and violence has been seen before. Yet, the combination of solid acting, interesting characters, subtle comedy and sound cinematography made this decently atmospheric and even somewhat original. In the end, if you are a fan of the works of Jack Ketchum, you will like this. It is not for everyone, but it is an entertaining look into a disturbing world.

Priest (2011)

2012-01-27T23:05:00.000-05:00

During this past week, I was busy studying to finish my FCC licensing in preparation for teaching my next quarter class at PIA. However, that did not stop me from catching some interesting movies. One such movie was something different for me, the 2011 comic book based, Priest.

Plot/ This post-apocalyptic sci-fi thriller, is set in an alternate world -- one ravaged by centuries of war between man and vampires. The story revolves around a legendary Warrior Priest from the last Vampire War who now lives in obscurity among the other downtrodden human inhabitants in walled-in dystopian cities ruled by the Church. When his niece is abducted by a murderous pack of vampires, Priest breaks his sacred vows to venture out on a quest to find her before they turn her into one of them. He is joined on his crusade by his niece's boyfriend, a trigger-fingered young wasteland sheriff, and a former Warrior Priestess who possesses otherworldly fighting skills.

When I originally saw the trailer for this, I had no desire to watch it. Fortunately, for me, when I saw it available on one of my movie channels this past week, I decided to give it a shot. It was honestly nothing like the typical post apocalyptic movie I expected. Yes, it did have the usual action, gunfights, and poor dialogue. However, the decent cinematography, storyline and effects were good (even with CGI creatures). In the end, this was an outstanding comic book transformation (wow, what a combo: action / western / horror) with a interesting feel. Sure, it is not thought provoking or an all-time great, but it is an entertaining way to spend 90 minutes (really 87 but whose counting). If you like this kind of stuff, check it out!

Anamorph (2007)

2012-01-24T21:31:00.000-05:00

After a few days of chilling out with some vintage classics, I decided to come back to modern day and find something more mysterious and thought provoking. After some debate with the voices in my head, I decided on the 2007 psychological thriller Anamorph.

Plot/ Stan is a quiet, solitary detective in New York City. A few months ago, he solved a gruesome case of serial murders, although an undercover police officer lost her life. A new set of similar murders begins: the bodies are elaborately displayed and the killer uses equipment from art and early movie making in the tableau, or he leaves a clue as to where the investigators are to stand to get the full artistic effect.

When I stumbled upon this the other day, I had no idea what to expect. As a rule, I never read reviews before watching anything, as I do not want that to influence my overall feeling, and in some cases ruin the storyline. In this case, I am glad that I stayed true to my beliefs. I thought that this flick was original, taking an interesting storyline and creating a good flick. It has many solid elements including decent atmosphere, nice cinematography and some graphic visual effects. Sure, some of the acting is so-so, some characters are undeveloped and there is really no violence or gore (especially considering striking array of graphically arranged dead bodies). All and all, this thriller is a lot better than many that have come out and one that flies a bit under the radar. If you are looking for something interesting, check it out!

Murders in the Rue Morgue (1932)

2012-01-23T21:58:00.001-05:00

As I was taking a walk into the early stages of Sci-Fi and Horror, I felt that my night would not be complete unless I ventured into the mind of my favorite master of terror, Edgar Allan Poe. What a better way to close my evening but with a classic tale starring one of the greatest horror icons of all time Bela Lugosi, in the often overlooked 1932 adaptation of Murders in the Rue Morgue.

Plot/ In 19th Century Paris, the maniacal Dr. Mirakle abducts young women and injects them with ape blood in an attempt to prove ape-human kinship. He constantly meets failure as the abducted women die. Medical student Pierre Dupin discovers what Mirakle is doing too late to prevent the abduction of his girlfriend Camille. Now he desperately tries to enlist the help of the police to get her back.

I love movies based on the works of Poe (albeit loose adaptations), in fact, I can never get enough of them when I find them. Sure, some are better than others, but in same ways they always carry at least some of the flair that was woven into them decades before their transition to the silver screen. This adaptation, while running only about 80 minutes, is definitely worth watching. Filmed by Universal Studios, after their initial foray into horror, this flick features great set design and perfect atmosphere. The acting is solid, but it is Bela Lugosi that is amazing, captivating the screen during every second of his screen time. Yes, there are some flaws. Some of the cinematography is so-so and editing was uneven. In the end, this is a classic early example of Universal Studios mastery and a film that is definitely worth watching.

Tarantula! (1955)

2012-01-22T21:13:00.002-05:00

As a football fan, I should be excited about today, unfortunately, my Steelers were eliminated already and I cannot stand any of the four teams remaining. Honestly, the lesser of all evils is the Giants, and I cannot see myself pulling for them in any way (although seeing Eli with more rings than Peyton would be funny). With my football entertainment limited, I decided to venture back in time for some viewing pleasure with the Sci-Fi classic Tarantula.

Plot/ A spider escapes from an isolated desert laboratory experimenting in gigantism and grows to tremendous size as it wreaks havoc on the local inhabitants.

The 1950s was such a great decade for the Sci-Fi / Horror genre, many films created during that period set the standard for the films of today. Amazingly, some of the best still stand the test of time with their combinations of solid effects and storyline. This flick is one of the finest from that era. Watching this today, the tremendous story stands tall and the effects are amazing when you consider when it was done. The tarantula (which was real) is believable and the acting and cinematography were solid as well. Sure, some of the dialogue seems dated and the sound-effects are laughable at times, but those a very small flaws and are not detriments in any way. In the end, this is a great Sci-Fi movie and awesome entertainment. If you have not watched this one, you are missing out.

Bikini Girls on Ice (2009)

2012-01-22T00:07:00.000-05:00

While some may say that my review of Alice and Murderland was a bit off, I like to give the benefit of the doubt to no budget indie flicks. I look past some of the flaws and try to see the potential within the idea. This next flick almost fits into that category, here is hoping that the material can live up to the title with 2009s Bikini Girls on Ice.

Plot/ When a bus-load of women's college soccer players get stranded on their way to a bikini car-wash fundraiser, they decide to set-up shop in front of an abandoned gas station on the edge of town. Little do they know the place is the stalking-grounds for a homicidal maniac mechanic?

When I saw this title, it caught my attention. However, I will admit that the title may be the highlight of the film. Do not get me wrong, there are some good points. The idea was interesting (slasher cliché but interesting), the cinematography was solid and the girls were at least attractive. Decent elements considering being a lower budget flick. Unfortunately, it failed to create anything original or exciting with uneven acting, no characterization and almost no gore (or boobs for that matter). In the end, this is a predictable slasher with almost zero originality and you can find better…

Alice in Murderland (2010)

2012-01-21T21:19:00.000-05:00

I finally was able to kick back and relax for the weekend, thus enjoying some of the flicks that I had been waiting to watch. To start the evening, I decided to start with some no-budget indie stuff, something that I see as a critical backbone for the horror industry. My first selection for the night was Alice in Murderland (AKA The Alice in Wonderland Murders).

Plot/ It's Alice's birthday and her sorority girlfriends throw her a themed party. Everyone comes as his or her favorite, sexy character from Wonderland. The Jabberwocky was not invited when he brings murder and mayhem to the girls' night out.

This movie was quite a dilemma. To start, I love independent horror, especially the low-budget stuff. While this flick definitely had some elements that I loved, some of it came across just blah. The acting was uneven, the costuming so-so (especially the Jabberwocky), the characterization was underwhelming and there were many missed opportunities for nudity (not a must, but it could have added something). The effects were also a mixed bag, the actions of the killer definitely did not match the over-the-top gore (which I loved), but at least there was gore (something many films lack). I did like the storyline, and I could see a lot of potential in it, but some of it was undeveloped within the slow party scenes. In the end, this movie is not for everyone, and some (like me) should enjoy it. It is not perfect, but if you like no-budget indie flicks, check it out.

Evidence of a Haunting (2010)

2012-01-20T20:38:00.000-05:00

This has been a crazy week full of weird weather and lot of computer lab, not to mention trying to get used to working again. All that aside, I took a break from the blog for a few days, but I am back again with a review of Evidence of a Haunting from 2010.

Plot/ While shooting their reality TV show, a team of ghost hunters get into the fight of their lives as they investigate the haunted tunnels deep below an old Texas college.

Ahhh, ghost hunting reality movies… These gems are popping up all over the place in varying degrees, and this one may be one of the better ones. The storyline, the soundtrack, and the overall feel of the flick is tremendous and very authentic. In addition, the script does a great job at tying the stories together while developing the characters. Sure, there are some flaws that will noticeable by a trained paranormal investigator and the acting is uneven (but believably amateurish), however, those flaws are minimal. In the end, fans of hand-cam, paranormal investigational flicks should enjoy this one. If you are not one, give it a shot.

Shark Night 3D (2011)

2012-01-16T17:41:00.000-05:00

After hanging out and watching Contagion the other night, I decided to watch something very different for my next review. While I picked up a couple of things for my viewing, unfortunately, I had to watch something a little tamer with the daughters around. My selection, Shark Night 3D (it is only PG-13).

Plot/ A weekend at a lake house in the Louisiana Gulf turns into a nightmare for seven vacationers as they are subjected to shark attacks.

When watching the previews for this one, I got the feeling that I had already watched all of the good moments, and ironically, I was right (glad I waited until it was on DVD to watch it). To start, I was a bit depressed by the PG-13 rating, and after watching it, that disappointment was justified. There was really no blood other than the stuff that colored the water when someone was pulled underneath, no gore to mention and the dialogue was a train wreck. Honestly, this was just like something I would catch on the Sci-Fi channel, complete with the cheesy shark graphics. There were some good point in this, and in fact, the storyline had some potential and actually a bit of originality. Unfortunately, all of that was lost between the bad effects and numerous flaws in the production. In the end, if you love Sci-Fi Channel originals, you may enjoy this one. If not, stay away.

Contagion (2011)

2012-01-15T12:07:00.001-05:00

After spending a few hours at the skating rink for Genesis’ birthday party, (I cannot believe she is 14), it was time to kick back and enjoy some decent virus based entertainment. While zombies are always fun, the tragedy and devastation of a real outbreak may be scarier (especially considering this is the year 2012), fortunately, that is exactly what the 2011 thriller Contagion may deliver.

Plot/ A thriller centered on the threat posed by a deadly disease and an international team of doctors contracted by the CDC to deal with the outbreak.

When I saw the preview for this, I wanted to see it. With the way the media covers outbreaks such as H1N1 or SARS, I felt it was a great time for Hollywood to capitalize on the mass hysteria involved. To me, this one did not disappoint. The cast was solid and their performances were all good. Unfortunately, by boasting such a dynamic cast, the character development did suffer some with all of the divergent storylines formulated to take advantage of the cast, but that flaw was not a showstopper. Surrounding this cast, the storyline was tremendous, perfectly centering the main character of this movie The Virus itself. The scenery and cinematography was awesome, and overall this is a well-put together docudrama. It does have some flaws besides the character development as the pacing was a bit slow and there was a lot of story that went unresolved. In the end, this was much more a docudrama than thriller and should be viewed with that in mind, but it is an effective venture into the mind of an epidemic that would ravage the world. Check it out!