Eaten Alive - Blu-ray Review - Arrow Video

MEET THE MANIAC AND HIS FRIEND

Released by: Arrow Video
Release Date: September 14, 2014 (UK) / September 15, 2015 (US)
Production Year: 1977
Region Code: A + B
Running Time: 1:30:54
Audio: English LPCM Mono
Video: 1080p (1.85:1 Aspect Ratio)
Subtitles: English SDH

THE FILM - [3.5 / 5]:

Meet the maniac and his friend. Nearly a decade before he donned Freddy Kruger's famous red and green sweater, horror icon Robert Englund delivered a supremely sleazy performance as Buck in "Eaten Alive," another essay in taut Southern terror from Tobe Hooper, director of "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre." 

Deep in the Louisiana bayou sits the ramshackle Starlight Hotel, destination of choice for those who like to check in but not check out! Presided over by the bumbling, mumbling Judd (and his pet crocodile which he keeps in a large pond out front), the patron of this particular establishment may seem like a good-natured ol' Southern gent, but he has a mean temper on him, and a mighty large scythe to boot. Oozing atmosphere from every pore (the entire film was shot on a sound-stage at the famous Raleigh Studious, which lends it a queasy, claustrophobic feel) "Eaten Alive" matches "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" for sheer insanity and even drafts in Chain Saw star Marilyn Burns as the terrorized woman-in-peril, alongside William Finley (Phantom of the Paradise) and Mel Ferrer (The Longest Day). 

"Eaten Alive" is a horror film I have enjoyed for a long time. It is similar in tone to Tobe Hooper's "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" in that it has a dirty and gritty feel to it. The Starlight Hotel looks like the type of place you just drive right by when you are looking for a place to stay while on a road trip. It has that roach motel look to it that can almost make your skin crawl without even seeing the inside. This works wonderfully as it helps to further engulf the viewer in the sleazy atmosphere. The movie features a fair amount of blood and gore with the practical effects looking good.

Shortly after the film opens we meet Clara and also Buck, who utters a memorable phrase that has been repeated often over the years by those that have seen the film. After Clara scoffs at Buck's idea and intentions, she leaves for the Starlight Hotel where she encounters Judd (Neville Brand, "Without Warning"). More visitors soon arrive including Harvey Wood (Mel Ferrer) who is looking for his daughter, and a family consisting of Roy (William Finley), Faye (Marilyn Burns) and their own daughter Angie (Kyle Richards, "Halloween"). I don't want to spoil what happens along the way. Let's just say that not everyone survives until the end of the movie. 

The film also features a number of other actors in small roles, that have worked in horror films including Stuart Whitman (Ruby), Crystin Sinclaire (Ruby) and Janus Blythe (Wes Craven's "The Hills Have Eyes"). Fans of the sitcom, "The Addams Family" will find none other than Morticia herself, Carolyn Jones in the movie. But you probably won't recognize her due to her characters appearance. 

AUDIO - [4.5 / 5]:

There is one audio option on this Blu-ray and it is an English LPCM Mono track. The sound quality is terrific. The dialogue and sound effects are crisp and crystal clear. The track maintains a well balanced volume level throughout the movie. Whether it is the ear piercing screams from a soon-to-be victim, the splashing of water outside the Starlight Hotel or sounds from the lively bar where Buck hangs out, it all sounds great. I did not notice any issues with the audio at all such as hissing, dropouts or pops. The Blu-ray also includes optional English SDH subtitles.


VIDEO - [4.5 / 5]:

"Eaten Alive" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Arrow Video. The film is presented in 1080p with a 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio. For this Blu-ray release, Arrow Video had a brand new 2K transfer of the film created from the original camera negative. The results are fantastic. The movie has never looked better. The colors look great and really pop. The greens in Clara's outfit look gorgeous and robust. The contrast level in the film looks spot on. Black levels look fine as well. There is a nice looking layer of grain that looks to have been handled rather well. Even in darker scenes, it never seems overly heavy as is the case with other films. Throughout the movie, there is a good amount of detail present. In brighter scenes, the fine detail really shines whether it's the characters hair, clothing or miscellaneous objects. The film elements appear to have been well kept over the years with how great this transfer looks. Skin tones also have a pleasant and natural appearance. There are some instances of white specks here and there, but I did not find it to occur frequent enough to be distracting. Fans should be extremely pleased with the amazing job Arrow has done.

SPECIAL FEATURES - [4.5 / 5]:

Intro by Tobe Hooper - When playing the film, you have the option to view it with a 20 second Intro by director Tobe Hooper. 

Audio Commentary - This track features co-writer and producer Mardi Rustam, make-up artist Craig Reardon and stars Roberta Collins (Clara), William Finley (Roy) and Kyle Richards (Angie). The participants are not all present together for this commentary. Their individual segments are proceeded by an introduction with their name, which is a nice touch so listeners can easily tell who is speaking. First up is Mardi Rustam who as well as talking about Tobe Hooper and other members of the cast and crew, tells an interesting story about Robert Caramico, the director of photography. He said that during the second week of shooting, a couple union officials came to visit Mr. Caramico to tell him he was not allowed to work on the non-union film. After they discussed the matter, Robert Caramico quit the union and tore up his card, so he could continue working on the movie. Next to speak is Roberta Collins who tells a story of how a seemingly innocent dinner with Neville Brand turned into a scary situation. William Finley follows and he talks about his role in the film and also speaks about what is happening on the screen through several scenes. Kyle Richards also chimes in on her role of Angie and how she was scared to death when Neville Brand was chasing her because she felt like she was going to actually be killed. Craig Reardon discusses some members of the cast, including Neville Brand and also his career. This commentary track was fairly informative and a pleasure to listen to all participants. Fans of the film should enjoy this.


Interviews

• Blood on the Bayou: An Interview with Tobe Hooper (14:03) - Tobe talks about shooting the film on the same sound stage as Sunset Boulevard, the characters, actors and the films production.

• Gator Bait: An Interview with Janus Blythe (11:38) - Janus mentions how she got her part in the film and discusses her career. She shares personal stories such as the car that picks her up in the film was her own. Janus at one time had her own talk show and thankfully we get to see a few short clips. 

• Monsters and Metaphors: An Interview with Craig Reardon (11:35) - Mr. Reardon talks about his time on the film and working with Tobe Hooper and Neville Brand.

Archive Interviews - Interviews ported over from the Dark Sky Films DVD.

• The Gator Creator with Tobe Hooper (19:38) - Tobe discusses the different scripts for "Eaten Alive" and also the cast and aspects of the production of the film.
• My Name is Buck: A Look Back at "Eaten Alive" (15:05) An interview with Robert Englund. He speaks about his role in "Eaten Alive" and other films in his career. Robert talks about how he and Tobe Hooper got along really well and how he enjoyed his time on the set.
• 5ive Minutes with Marilyn (5:18) - An interview with Marilyn Burns. She briefly discusses her career and working with the other actors in the film.

The Butcher of Elmendorf: The Legend of Joe Ball  (23:05) - This featurette takes a look at the true story of the South Texas bar owner Joe Ball, on whom "Eaten Alive" is loosely based.

Theatrical Trailers: Seven trailers, some featuring different titles for the film.

TV and Radio Spots: Two "Starlight Slaughter" TV Spots and two "Eaten Alive" Radio Spots. 

Alternate Credits (1:05) - An alternate opening credits sequence with the "Death Trap" film title.


Galleries:

• Behind the Scenes Slideshow (8:09) - Slideshow of stills accompanied by music.
• Stills and Promo Material
• Comment Cards - Some of the negative comments, which there were plenty, made me laugh.

This Blu-ray and DVD Combo Pack also features reversible cover art with original and newly commissioned artwork by Gary Pullin.

Collector's Booklet featuring new writing on the film by critic Brad Stevens, illustrated with original archive stills and posters.

IN CONCLUSION:

A good horror film and an outstanding release by Arrow Video. As mentioned before, this is a Blu-ray and DVD Combo Pack. If you are a fan of this film, you most definitely want to purchase this. There is a trailer below for those who are unfamiliar with "Eaten Alive." I suggest horror fans buy this release because it not only has great audio and video quality, it also includes a large amount of special features. For those checking my math for the overall score, yes I know it technically should be 4.25 but since I go by half-points, I rounded up since this release is more than deserving. 


OVERALL: [4.5 / 5]

 

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Josh Duggar’s Porn Mistress, Danica Dillon, is “Scared Topless!”

Brooklyn, NY - September 3rd, 2015

Adult film starlet Danica Dillon, who shocked the media world with confessions of her “rough” secret sexual encounters with former TLC reality star Josh Duggar to Entertainment Tonight just days ago, will be baring it all in the sexy paranormal comedy romp Scared Topless. Duggar, whose sexual exploits have been blown wide open by the recent Ashley Madison hack, first approached Dillon in a club where she was dancing and soon lured her to a hotel for the first of two wild sexual encounters.

Directed by B-movie legend Jim Wynorski, the man behind such classics as "Chopping Mall" and "Return of the Swamp Thing" among many others, "Scared Topless" is bringing the cheese back to late night television courtesy of Old Mill Entertainment. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of women Duggar secretly obsessed over, Dillon’s performance and the movie as a whole, in the words of producer and writer, Dave Zani, who was also an animator for Grand Theft Auto V and Max Payne, is “a late night spectacle with so much cheese and scandal it’s a French fondue.” Give a shout to "Scared Topless" on Twitter @ScaredTopless or visit www.scaredtopless.com for more juicy updates.

For more information on the film, you can also read our previous article on "Scared Topless." 

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ABC Family's '13 Nights of Halloween' Starts October 19th

ABC FAMILY’S 17th ANNUAL “13 NIGHTS OF HALLOWEEN”

HOLIDAY PROGRAMMING EVENT, AIRING OCTOBER 19TH – 31ST

I know... I know... not much in the way of horror films, but there's a few. It's something to consider for the kids or maybe even a family night.


ABC Family scares up the 2015 13 NIGHTS OF HALLOWEENcelebration, with programming filled with scares and frights as you countdown to Halloween. The popular programming event, now in its 17th year, kicks off on Monday, October 19th and concludes on Saturday, October 31st, and features a special Halloween episode of procedural drama “Stitchers.” The stunt will also include the ABC Family premiere of Johnny Depp in “Sleepy Hollow,” the network premiere of“Disney & Pixar’s Monsters University,” and a delightfully scary mix of Halloween-themed programming airing for the 13 nights leading up to Halloween.
Night One – Monday, October 19th

The 17th annual 13 NIGHTS OF HALLOWEEN kicks off with back-to-back airings of the final Harry Potter films, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1” (1:30 – 5:00 PM ET/PT) and “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2” (5:00 – 8:00 PM ET/PT). Then everyone’s favorite Halloween sisters from “Hocus Pocus” (9:00 – 11:00 PM ET/PT) deliver the scares. “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride”(12:00 - 2:00 AM ET/PT) rounds out the evening with an invitation to the creepiest wedding ever!


Night Two – Tuesday, October 20th

“Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” (4:00 – 6:00 PM ET/PT) is back for another walk down the aisle, followed by beloved Halloween classic “Hocus Pocus” (6:00 – 8:00 PM ET/PT). Then tune in to aspecial Halloween episode of “Stitchers” where Camille preps for her annual Halloween bash, as the Stitchers team investigates the suicide of a young man (guest star Jeremy Sumpter, “Friday Night Lights”), who is suspected of abducting a missing college student (9:00 – 10:00 PM ET/PT), with an encore airing immediately following. Spend your late night with the friendly ghost “Casper” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Three – Wednesday, October 21st

Kick off the night with the friendly ghost “Casper” (5:00 – 7:00 PM ET/PT), then spend your Wednesday with “The Addams Family” (7:00 – 9:00 PM ET/PT) and “Addams Family Values” (9:00 – 11:00 PM ET/PT). Stay up late for extra chills with “I Know What You Did Last Summer” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT) where someone is watching, and they know your secret!


Night Four – Thursday, October 22nd

Spend some more time with the kookiest family around, “The Addams Family” (4:00 – 6:00 PM ET/PT) and “Addams Family Values” (6:00 – 8:00 PM ET/PT), then volunteer as Tribute with “The Hunger Games” (8:00 – 11:00 PM ET/PT). You’re in for another terrifying late night “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Five – Friday, October 23rd

May the odds ever be in your favor with another airing of “The Hunger Games” (5:30 – 8:30 PM ET/PT). Johnny Depp is Ichabod Crane in the ABC Family premiere of “Sleepy Hollow” (8:30 – 11:00 PM ET/PT). Finish your night with a visit with the most charming and magical girl, “Matilda” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Six – Saturday, October 24th

The day of Halloween hijinks kicks off with the story of a magical little girl who uses her extraordinary gifts to change her unhappy life in Matilda (7:00 – 9:00 AM ET/PT). Then spend some time with“ParaNorman” (9:00 – 11:00 AM ET/PT) and his dearly departed friends. It’s back-to-back Tim Burton thrills with “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM ET/PT), followed by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1:00 – 2:30 PM ET/PT), doubling your frights. Then “Casper”(2:30 – 4:30 PM ET/PT) the friendly ghost drops by. Spend some time with Gomez, Morticia, and the rest of the “The Addams Family” (4:30 – 6:30 PM ET/PT) and learn some “Addams Family Values” (6:30 – 8:30 PM ET/PT). Enroll with Mike and Sulley in the ABC Family premiere of “Disney & Pixar’s Monsters University,” (8:30 – 11:00 PM ET/PT) and stay to watch Buzz, Woody and all your favorite toys work together to track down their missing friend in “Disney & Pixar’s Toy Story of Terror!”(11:00 – 11:30 PM ET/PT). Cap off your day of thrills with the Sanderson sisters and practice some “Hocus Pocus” (11:30 PM – 1:30 AM ET/PT).


Night Seven – Sunday, October 25th

Start the day with a ghostly visit with “ParaNorman” (7:00 – 9:00 AM ET/PT), then you’re invited to the creepiest wedding of the year with “Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride” (9:00 – 11:00 AM ET/PT). Take a trip to Halloween Town to visit Jack Skellington in the cult classic, “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas”(11:00 AM – 12:30 PM ET/PT). Spend some more time with “Casper” (12:30 - 2:30 PM ET/PT) and“The Addams Family” (2:30 – 4:30 PM ET/PT), followed by “Addams Family Values” (4:30 – 6:30 PM ET/PT). Take a ride on “Disney & Pixar’s Toy Story of Terror!” (6:30 – 7:00 PM ET/PT) if you dare! And then go back to school at “Disney & Pixar’s Monsters University,” (7:00 – 9:45 PM ET/PT). Then spend another witchy late night practicing “Hocus Pocus” (9:45 PM – 12:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Eight – Monday, October 26th

Try to outrun the Headless Horseman terrorizing the town of “Sleepy Hollow” (5:30 – 8:00 PM ET/PT). Then join Buzz and Woody on “Disney & Pixar’s Toy Story OF TERROR!” (9:00 – 9:30 PM ET/PT), followed by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” (9:30 – 11:00 PM ET/PT). Stay up late to see the undead Sparky of “Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Nine – Tuesday, October 27th

Dr. Frankenstein and his dog are back in “Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie” (4:00 –6:00 PM ET/PT). Have another haunting holiday with “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” (6:00 – 7:30 PM ET/PT). Woody and Buzz are back with more scares in “Disney & Pixar’s Toy Story OF TERROR!”(7:30 – 8:00 PM). Don’t drink these witches’ brew as the Sanderson sisters wreak havoc in “Hocus Pocus” (9:00– 11:00 PM ET/PT). Then keep the late night spooks going with “ParaNorman” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Ten – Wednesday, October 28th

Kick off the night with “ParaNorman” (4:00 – 6:00 PM ET/PT), and continue on with the baddest witches in town in “Hocus Pocus” (6:00 – 8:15 PM ET/PT). Then Barnabas Collins returns from the dead in “Dark Shadows” (8:15 – 11:00 PM ET/PT). And you won’t be afraid to stay up late to see “Casper”(12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Eleven – Thursday, October 29th

The night kicks off with a bonus airing of “Casper” (5:00 – 7:00 PM ET/PT). Then spend time some with Uncle Fester and Cousin It in “The Addams Family” (7:00 – 9:00 PM ET/PT) and “Addams Family Values” (9:00 – 11:00 PM ET/PT). Have a late night with “Hocus Pocus” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT).


Night Twelve – Friday, October 30th

It’s your last chance to see “The Addams Family” (2:30 – 4:30 PM ET/PT) and brush up on “Addams Family Values” (4:30 – 6:30 PM ET/PT). Watch out for those witchy sisters in “Hocus Pocus” (6:30 – 8:30 PM ET/PT). They’re heeeeeeeeeeere! The classic horror film, “Poltergeist” (8:30 – 11:00 PM ET/PT) and “Poltergeist II: The Other Side” (12:00 – 2:00 AM ET/PT) will keep you up with spine tingling scares.


Night Thirteen – Saturday, October 31st

All Hallows Eve is upon us and promises to bring with it a day full of ghosts, witches, and Batman. The day kicks off with the Joker vs “Batman” (7:00 – 10:00 AM ET/PT), followed by a bat, a cat, and a penguin in “Batman Returns” (10:00 AM – 12:30 PM). The otherworldly battles between the Freeling family and some truly wicked spirits in “Poltergeist” (12:30 – 3:00 PM ET/PT) is sure to keep your Halloween scary. Then lookout for the Headless Horseman in “Sleepy Hollow” (3:00 – 5:30 PM ET/PT). You should always visit Halloween Town on Halloween in “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” (5:30 – 7:00 PM ET/PT). Spend your evening with back-to-back airings of “Hocus Pocus”(7:00 – 9:15 PM ET/PT), with an encore airing immediately after (9:15 – 11:30 PM ET/PT). Then wrap up 13 Nights of chills with an encore of “Sleepy Hollow” (11:30 PM – 2:00 AM ET/PT).

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The Blood Lands - Blu-ray Review - Magnolia Pictures

THEY'RE COMING FOR YOU

Released by: Magnolia Pictures
Release Date: September 1, 2015
Production Year: 2015
Region Code: A
Running Time: 1:23:02
Audio: English DTS-HD MA 5.1
Video: 1080p (1.78:1 Aspect Ratio)
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French

THE FILM - [2.5 / 5]:

It’s Ed (Lee Williams) and Sarah’s (Pollyanna McIntosh, "The Woman," "Let us Prey") first night at their new home – an isolated farmhouse on the Scottish borders. This should be a new beginning away from their stressful London lives. And at first it is; come sunset they fall in love all over again on a wander in the woods. But as darkness falls, Sarah suspects they’re not alone, Ed goes to investigate and quickly, the evening becomes a nightmare. It suddenly dawns on them; they do not belong here. And they certainly aren’t welcome either.
"The Blood Lands" starts off leading you to believe that it is going to be similar to the horror films, "The Strangers" and "Ils" which it is, but unfortunately, it is inferior to both. It is still an enjoyable film with Pollyanna McIntosh giving a great performance as the terrorized, Sarah. Lee Williams does a fine job as well in the role of Ed. The viewer does get the idea why things are happening. But it just seems like its reaching a bit too far or maybe I was expecting too much. While the plot may not be the best, director Simeon Halligan did an excellent job of creating tension. Once the action starts to roll, it is a roller coaster ride until toward the end when the film does not quite end as I was expecting. Even though a clue is given earlier on in the film by one of the antagonists, I still expected a different ending. 

The film is not heavy on blood and gore, nor does it have a high body count, but there is a very good scene depicting a heavy dose of violence and blood. With that said, the effects used did have a great look to them. If you watch the film with low expectations, you should be satisfied. Like I said earlier, despite its flaws, I still enjoyed watching "The Blood Lands."

AUDIO - [4 / 5]:

"The Blood Lands" comes with an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 audio track. The quality of the audio was terrific. The DTS-HD track does a great job of helping to set the right ambiance in the film. At times you feel like you are right out there in the woods with all the surrounding noises and people lurking about. I thought the audio had a great balance with the dialogue never being drowned out by the score or sound effects. I did not encounter any problems with the sound as far as hissing, drop outs and so forth. A pretty solid track. The Blu-ray also includes English SDH, Spanish and French subtitles.


VIDEO - [4 / 5]:

"The Blood Lands" stalks its way on to Blu-ray thanks to Magnolia Pictures. The film is presented in 1080p with a 1.78:1 Aspect Ratio. The film looks excellent. There almost seems to be two distinct aspects to the film in terms of color. In the daytime scenes, the countryside looks amazing with rich, lustrous colors. The house and all of its surroundings make you want to immediately book a trip. Although you would think twice about that after watching the film. In the scenes that take place at night, of which there are many, the colors are mostly dark, drab and cold, which in essence, matches the mood and outlook of our main characters. The brighter scenes reveal a significant amount of fine detail which just adds to the beauty of the scenery. Black levels looks good throughout the film. I thought the actors skin tones looked natural in appearance. 

SPECIAL FEATURES - [1 / 5]:

Making of The Blood Lands (16:21) - This extra features brief interviews with several members of the cast and crew including director Simeon Halligan, writer Iam Fenton and stars Pollyanna McIntosh and Lee Williams. They discuss their jobs in the film as well as the films production, from its inception, to filming.

More from Magnolia Home Entertainment - Trailers for "Skin Trade," "The Dead Lands," "Kill Me Three Times," "Chideo," and "AXS TV."


IN CONCLUSION:

A great looking and sounding Blu-ray from Magnolia Pictures. Even though I thought the film didn't quite fire on all cylinders, I could think of worse ways to spend 83 minutes. I would suggest tracking the film down on VOD or online rental service for most people. However, nobody knows better, what you like, than you do. The red band trailer is below and perhaps that will give you a good idea as to whether you would enjoy this horror film or not. 


OVERALL: [2.5 / 5]


   

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'Queen Crab' Starts Her Reign of Terror on DVD & VOD September 29, 2015

Queen Crab Rises from the Deep

Wild Eye Frees the Beast on DVD & VOD September 29th

Wild Eye Releasing has announced the September 29th DVD and VOD release of Queen Crab. The latest sci-fi horror film from cult auteur Brett Piper ("They Bite," "The Screaming Dead," "Raiders of the Living Dead") "Queen Crab" is a loving, action-packed tribute to the classic days of practical stop-motion animation, evoking the days of Ray Harryhausen creature features.

A meteor crashes into a quiet lake in the remote countryside, awakening a centuries-old beast. She emerges from the deep and tears through a nearby town and its inhabitants. The humans must fight for their lives and stop this Queen Crab before she can hatch an army of babies that will overrun the entire world.

The September 29th DVD release of Queen Crab (SRP $19.95) will exclusively include:

• Director's Commentary Track
• Special Effects Featurettes
• Behind the Scenes Featurette
• Blooper Reel
• Trailers

Wild Eye Releasing Facebook Page
Follow Wild Eye Releasing on Twitter

Read our review of the DVD.

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Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight and Bordello of Blood - Final Blu-ray Extras Announced by Scream Factory

Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight and Bordello of Blood - Final Blu-ray Extras Announced by Scream Factory

Tales From the Crypt Presents: Demon Knight 

• NEW Audio Commentary with Director Ernest Dickerson
• NEW Audio Commentary with Special Make-up Effects Creator Todd Masters, Visual Effects Supervisor John Van Vliet, Special Effects Coordinator Thomas Bellissimo, and Demon Performer Walter Phelan
• NEW Under Siege: The Making of “Tales From The Crypt Presents Demon Knight” – Featuring interviews with Director Ernest Dickerson, Co-producer A.L. Katz, Screenwriters Ethan Reiff, Cyrus Voris, and Mark Bishop, Stars Billy Zane, William Sadler, Brenda Bakke, Charles Fleischer. John Schuck and Dick Miller, Editor Stephen Lovejoy, Special Make-Up Effects Creator Todd Masters, Special Make-Up Effects Artists Scott Coulter and Scott Wheeler, and Demon Performer Walter Phelan (40 minutes)
• Panel Discussion from the American Cinematheque featuring director Ernest Dickerson, actor Dick Miller and Special Effects maestro Rick Baker
• Still Gallery
• Theatrical Trailer

Tales From the Crypt Presents: Bordello of Blood

• NEW Audio Commentary with Co-Writer & Producer A.L. Katz
• NEW Tainted Blood: The Making of “Tales From The Crypt presents Bordello Of Blood” – Interviews with Actors Corey Feldman, Angie Everhart and Erika Eleniak,, Co-Writer & Co-Producer A.L. Katz, Editor & Second Unit Director Stephen Lovejoy, and Special Effects Creator Todd Masters (35 minutes)
• Video Promo
• Still Gallery
• Theatrical Trailer

Both horror films will be released on Blu-ray, October 20, 2015. 

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Deathgasm - Coming to Select Cities and Digital Download

THE ROAD TO HELL IS PAVED IN METAL.

The producers of "Housebound" and "Starry Eyes" bring you the most Metal action horror film of all time... Deathgasm!

High School is Hell! Metal-thrashing Brodie (Milo Cawthorne "Blood Punch") is an outcast in a sea of jocks and cheerleaders until he meets a kindred spirit in fellow metal-head Zakk (James Blake). After starting their own band, Brodie and Zakk’s resentment of the suburban wasteland leads them to a mysterious piece of sheet music said to grant Ultimate Power to whoever plays it. But the music also summons an ancient evil entity known as Aeloth The Blind One, who threatens to tear apart existence itself. Their classmates and family become inhabited by demonic forces, tearing out their own eyes and turning into psychotic murderers…

and this is only the beginning!

It’s up to Brodie, Zakk and their group of friends to stop a force of pure evil from devouring all of mankind.

A blood-soaked and hilarious horror comedy, "Deathgasm" features an amazing original soundtrack of fist-banging metal and practical effects to satisfy metal-heads and splatter fans alike. "Deathgasm" will gush bodily fluids, rain limbs and tickle your funny bone, before tearing it out and giving you a stiff beating with it. 

"Deathgasm" was directed by Jason Lei Howden. The film will be be shown in select cities and be available for digital download on October 2, 2015.

Visit the Official website for a list of select cities and dates to see the film in theaters. 
Visit the "Deathgasm" Facebook page.
Follow the film on Twitter.

Read our review of the film.

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I Spit on Your Grave 3 is coming from Anchor Bay

VENGEANCE IS MINE

Anchor Bay Entertainment is proud to announce the release of the revenge horror film, "I SPIT ON YOUR GRAVE 3." Directed by R.D. Braunstein, the third installment of the controversial cult series will be released in select theaters and EST October 9, 2015 before heading to DVD, Blu-ray and Video On-Demand October 20, 2015.

Jennifer Hills ( Sarah Butler) is still tormented by the brutal sexual assault she endured years ago ("I Spit on Your Grave" 2010). She’s changed identities and cities, reluctantly joining a support group where she begins to piece together a new life. But when her new friend’s murderer goes free and the tales of serial rapists haunt her, Jennifer will hunt down the men responsible and do what the system won’t... make them pay for their crimes in the most horrific ways imaginable. Only this time, no jury may be able to save her. Jennifer Landon (“The Young and the Restless”), Doug McKeon ("On Golden Pond") and Gabriel Hogan (“Heartland”) co-star in this unforgiving, unmerciful and uncut new chapter of one of the most notorious franchises in movie history.

Anchor Bay Entertainment released "I Spit on Your Grave" in 2010 and "I Spit On Your Grave 2" in 2013 to critical acclaim. Based on Meir Zarchi’s 1978 version, the franchise has gained the respect of both mainstream and genre critics. This latest installment is a continuation of the 2010 film's story-line.



 

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Navy SEALs vs. Zombies coming soon from Anchor Bay

NAVY SEALS VS. ZOMBIES Available on Digital HD on September 25, 2015 Available on Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand on October 6, 2015

Rick Fox (Former NBA player, "Dope", “One Tree Hill”, “Sharknado 3”), Michael Dudikoff (“American Ninja series”, "Olympus Has Fallen"), Molly Hagan (“iZombie”, "Election", "Some Kind of Wonderful", “Instant Mom”), Ed Quinn(“Revenge”, “Mistresses”, “True Blood”), Olympian LoLo Jones and real Navy SEALs star in the upcoming action horror thriller Navy SEALs vs. Zombies. The film arrives on Digital HD on Friday, September 25th and on Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand on Tuesday, October 6th from Anchor Bay Entertainment and is directed by Stanton Barrett (NASCAR driver and Hollywood stuntman) in his directorial debut.

After losing all contact with the Vice President during a routine campaign stop in Louisiana, the U.S. Government sends in a team of Navy SEALs for the rescue. Dropped into a warzone, the SEALs quickly discover that they aren’t dealing with a normal enemy. The city is under siege by hordes of fast moving, flesh eating undead. The infection is spreading and urban warfare has been unleashed. With no cure in sight and time running out, the elite unit has to survive their most horrific mission of all.

Navy SEALs vs. Zombies will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $26.99 and $22.98, respectively.

Blu-ray Details:
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: Dolby TrueHD 5.1
English SDH and Spanish Subtitles

DVD Details:
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1
English SDH and Spanish Subtitles

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Lost After Dark - Blu-ray Review - Anchor Bay

And you thought the '80s were dead...

Released by: Starz / Anchor Bay
Release Date: September 1, 2015
Production Year: 2014
Region Code: A
Running Time: 1:25:06
Audio: English Dolby TrueHD 5.1
Video: 1080p (1.78:1 Aspect Ratio)
Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish

THE FILM - [3 / 5]:

Spring Ball, 1984. Adrienne (Kendra Timmins, "Midnight Sun", "Wingin' It"), a straight-A student, joins her quarterback crush Sean (Justin Kelly, "Maps To The Stars", "Big Muddy") and some friends in sneaking out of their high school dance for some unsupervised mayhem. The teens' party plans hit a snag when they run out of gas on a deserted road. They head out on foot and discover a rundown farmhouse where they hope to find help, but instead find themselves at the mercy of Junior Joad (Mark Wiebe, "Sweet Karma"), a cannibal killer from an urban legend. After the brutal murder of one of their friends, the group’s quest for help becomes one of survival. Will anyone survive the night?

While I enjoyed the film overall, there was room for improvement. The biggest mark against the film is that I found it to be overly dark. I can appreciate films that take place at night. But often the film is a little too dark in that you can't get a good look at what is happening. Now, that could be on purpose to hide poor special effects, but the effects we are able to see, look good. So it just made me feel like I was missing out on some good shots. Also, seeing as the film is supposed to feel like an 80's slasher, there was a total lack of nudity. Not to sound like a pervert, but 80's slashers were, for the most part, known to feature at least one young lady flashing her goods. I'm sure that will garnish the film some negative remarks from a number of fans. One other bad thing is while the characters in slashers are normally expendable, they should be somewhat memorable. I think that with a little better dialogue and some of the characters names used more often, it could have helped that issue.

My favorite thing about the film is that they nailed the feel of the 80's pretty good with their use of music, clothing and hair. There are even a few 80's staples like a boombox, rotary telephone and a Rubik's Cube that make an appearance. The filmmakers do a fair job of adding in the stereotypical characters like the jocks, pot head, good girl, bad girls and even a clueless parent. 

"Lost After Dark" features a fine cast. It is nice to watch a film like this that has some quality actors. I don't recall anyone standing out, in a bad way. They really did a good job casting the film. It was nice to see Robert Patrick and Rick Rosenthal among the cast, even in smaller roles. I thought the practical effects use in the film looked pretty good. The small amount of humor in the film was used to good effect. Be sure to watch for a short post credits sequence following the film.

AUDIO - [4 / 5]:

The Blu-ray comes with one audio option in the form of a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 track. I found the audio quality on the Blu-ray to be excellent. The film makes some good use of surround speakers in key situations. I thought that there was a nice balance of dialogue, sound effects and score. I did not encounter any problems with the audio such as drop outs, pops or hissing.  Also included on the "Lost After Dark" Blu-ray are English SDH and Spanish subtitles.

VIDEO - [4 / 5]:

"Lost After Dark" comes to Blu-ray thanks to Starz/Anchor Bay. The film is presented in 1080p with a 1.78:1 Aspect Ratio. The Blu-ray looks terrific. I did like the somewhat muted or faded look of colors used, as they give the film an aged look, which is what they intended. Viewers will notice some added effects such as scratches, white specks and even a "missing reel" in the film. If you are familiar with "Planet Terror," you have an idea what to expect. However the techniques used in this film do not occur anywhere near as often. They just pop up with the same frequency as some older horror films. Black levels looked pretty good. Skin tones have a nice, natural appearance. I did not notice any issues with the picture in the form of edge enhancement or other video artifacts.

SPECIAL FEATURES: [0 / 5]

Unfortunately, the Blu-ray does not come with any bonus materials. 


IN CONCLUSION:

A decent enough attempt at being a throwback to the 80's. Slasher fans should find enough things in the film to satisfy most of their basic needs. Notice I did not say all of them. The video does feature excellent audio and video quality. So that is a big plus. It's a shame there are no special features included. I would advise most people to watch the film via VOD, rental, etc. rather than purchasing. However if you are a die hard slasher fan, I think you will be okay blind buying this Blu-ray since currently, it can be purchased for a reasonable price. 


OVERALL RATING: [3  / 5]


 

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Clinger - Movie Review - Paragon Pictures

FIRST LOVE NEVER DIES

High School senior Fern Peterson (Jennifer Laporte) finds herself stalked from beyond the grave by her deceased boyfriend Robert (Vincent Martella), in the horror-comedy, "Clinger." 

The film opens with Fern running on the track of her high school. She hopes to go to MIT to study neuroscience and join their track team after she graduates from high school. In the stands watching Fern, is Robert. Their eyes meet and unfortunately for Fern, she has a minor accident on the track. This leads to the meeting of our ill-fated couple. At first it appears that they have a promising relationship in their future. But then we quickly see that Robert is coming on very strong and in the process, making Fern increasingly uncomfortable with their relationship. She meets Robert one evening and while he is trying to show Fern a surprise he has for her, tragedy strikes and Robert is killed.

It doesn't take long before Fern begins to suspect that she is being haunted by the spirit of Robert. She searches on the internet and locates a local ghost hunter, who conveniently turns out to be her track coach, Valeria Kingsley (Alicia Monet Caldwell). Shortly after their meeting, Fern and ghostly Robert meet and it seems like they are going to try and make their very unorthodox relationship work. That is until dinner at Fern's house where her sister Kelsey (Julia Aks), spills the beans that Fern was going to break up with Robert, the night that he died. Robert seems to have somehow forgotten that part and as expected, does not handle the news well. The scene is entertaining with several funny lines. Fern's parents are played by Jeffrey Bean and horror icon Debbie Rochon. We also get to meet Kelsey's boyfriend, Dean (Paulie Deo Jr.).

It doesn't take Robert too long, to once again become too clingy. While Fern tries to find a way of dealing with Robert, he consults with one of his new ghostly graveyard friends and comes up with a plan on how he and Fern can be together forever, she has to die. That way she can join him in the afterlife and they can live happily ever after. The problem is that Fern has no plans to die anytime soon. 

By the end of the film we are treated to a showdown between Fern, her friends and family, versus Robert and his ghostly pals. Who will prevail? Who will survive? Will Fern live and have her dreams of going to MIT be fulfilled? You will have to watch the film and find out the answers to those questions.

I quite enjoyed "Clinger." I found it to be surprisingly comical. Fern's friend Moe (Shonna Major), was great with her innocently spoken lines of dialogue that were filled with sexual references. Kelsey, Valeria and a few other members of the supporting cast also chime in from time to time with some humorous one-liners. You never know what to expect with independent films. They are often hit or miss, mostly miss. But I had a really fun time watching the film. As I am writing this now, I am watching it a second time. "Clinger" has a great blend of horror and comedy. I believe fans of the genre will have a good time watching the film. There was a fair amount of blood and gore present, usually used in an over the top manner, which I think worked well. For me, the comedy worked great. They weren't too heavy handed with it and spread it out nicely throughout the entire film. 

Horror fans may recognize Robert's mother, Eugenia, played by Lisa Wilcox (Alice in "A Nightmare on Elm Street 4" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street 5"). She is only in the film briefly which is a shame as it would have been nice to see a little more of her. The acting in the film was good overall. I thought Jennifer Laporte and Vincent Martella did fine in their starring roles. There was really only one actor that stood out as far as poor acting goes, but he did not have a lot of screen time and he actually made me laugh with some of his lines, so it wasn't much of a bother. The writers Gabi Chennisi Duncombe, Bubba Fish (who also co-produced) and Michael Steves who did triple duty by directing and co-producing the film as well, created a good script chock-full of funny lines. The film featured some entertaining supporting characters such as Kelsey (Julia Aks) the sock puppet entrepreneur, Moe Watkins (Shonna Major) the innocent and spiritual best friend, Jenny Bernstein (Rebecca Gail) the self-proclaimed best friend and Coach Valeria (Alicia Money Caldwell), the former ghost hunter. Supporting characters can often be easily forgotten by the end of a film but in this case, both the actors and writers helped make them memorable and a joy to watch.

Running Time: 1:20:18

Rating: 3.5 / 5


Here is some more information on "Clinger" including release dates.


CLINGER

In select cinemas and On Demand October 23

Paragon Releasing will release CLINGER in cinemas and On Demand October 23.
Michael Steves directs the supernatural horror he co-penned with Gabi Chennisi Duncombe and Bubba Fish.

When her possessive high school boyfriend dies in a gruesome accident, Fern Petersen’s life is thrown into turmoil. Things go from bad to worse when he returns as a love-sick ghost to kill her so they can be together for eternity.

Vincent Martella, Jennifer Laporte, Julia Aks, Lisa Wilcox and Debbie Rochon star.


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R.I.P. Wes Craven

Legendary director, Wes Craven, has died at the age of 76.

Reportedly, he died from brain cancer. A sad day for horror fans and fans of movies in general, is an understatement. A legend is gone. The horror genre does not have all that many legendary directors and now it has one less.

Horror fans know the films he has directed and had a hand in making. I'd rather talk about what he meant to me, as a fan. His movies made you experience a number of emotions, even in the same horror film. "The Last House on the Left" made me cringe in horror at what could easily happen to anyone. It made me feel vulnerable. Yes I am a man, but the film showed you just how easily something terrible could happen to you and it was just ordinary people that were the perpetrators. That film however features characters that go through a metamorphosis and there comes a time where you go from hating the violence you have seen, to wanting to see violence. I won't spoil things for anyone who hasn't seen the film. Freddy gave us something to think about at night while we tried or maybe tried not to, fall asleep. He made us think, if I die in my dreams, could I die for real?

The list goes on and on. He made a number of memorable films and they feature a number of memorable characters. Even as I am typing this, I still cannot believe the horrible news is true. It feels like losing a family member. In a way, Wes was a member of our family. For many of us, we grew up watching his films that had a variety of crazy, violent and even sometimes, humorous villains. In the 90's when the horror genre was going through a rough time, "Scream" came along and changed the game once again.

At 76, Wes was still working, as executive producer of MTV's Scream. Some people expressed their opinions of his current career, but how many people 76 or older do you know that are still working? Wes Craven was. He could have easily retired and lived the good life. But he was always trying to please horror fans. He was always giving us more and more. Wes, you can finally take it easy now. You were and are, a true legend. You left a body of work that most people could only dream of achieving. You may no longer be here physically, but your legacy will live on forever.

Rest in Peace

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