Phil’s Exploitation Cinema: FUGITIVE GIRLS (1974) from Vinegar Syndrome - August 10, 2019

FUGITIVE GIRLS Blu-Ray Cover

FUGITIVE GIRLS (1974)

Starring Jabie Abercrombe, Rene Bond, Tallie Cochrane, Donna Young, Margie Lanier, Harvey Shain, Nicolle Riddell, Edward D. Wood Jr.
Screenplay by Stephen C. Apostolof (original screenplay) (as A.C. Stephen), Edward D. Wood Jr. (original screenplay)
Cinematography by Robert Birchall
Edited by Luigi Rogatoni (as Louigi Rogatoni)
Produced by Stephen C. Apostolof (as A.C. Stephen), S.B. Cooper
Directed by Stephen C. Apostolof (as A.C. Stephen)
Originally released by SCA Distributors
Re-Released by Vinegar Syndrome

Awww......is there anything better than 70's exploitation smut? The short answer is no! During this groovy decade, drive-ins and grindhouses were filled with these types of movies: sex crazed fiends, hot nude scenes, sizzling sex scenes, violence, and acting that ranks right below high school drama class. However, they were never boring; sometimes there were really risque with the subject manners ranging from lesbianism, rape, violence towards women, and prison treatment. A lot of these topics appear in the grindhouse sexploitation classic FUGITIVE GIRLS (which was co-written by the late, great Edward D. Wood Jr.) from Vinegar Syndrome!

The film's official synopsis: Beautiful Dee is implicated in a fatal liquor store shooting committed by her boyfriend. Sent to an all-female work camp, she quickly finds herself at the mercy of four other violent and sex crazed prisoners who force her into their daring escape plan. Once on the outside, the five fugitives embark on a brutal and sex filled rampage across the countryside, while making their way to a mystery site rumored to have a buried suitcase full of money!

Original Theatrical Poster (1974)

The movie was directed by Stephen C. Apostolof (as A.C. Stephen) and co-written by Edward D. Wood Jr. The same team that brought us ORGY OF THE DEAD (also from Vinegar Syndrome), this dynamic duo hit their peak with this movie (the two made nine films together). Hell, even Wood has a couple of roles in the movie, unfortunately you can see how hard life has hit him. Sadly, Wood would pass away on December 10, 1978, four years later after appearing here. Another legendary sexploitation star appears in the film. Rene Bond got her start acting in several Harry Novak produced exploitation flicks, such as COUNTRY CUZZINS, COUNTRY HOOKER, and PLEASE DON'T EAT MY MOTHER. She would also appear in several hardcore pornography films, and was one of the first actresses to have a breast enlargement. She left the film industry in the late seventies and was never seen again, until he appeared on the old game show Break the Bank in the mid-eighties. She passed away from of liver problems on June 2, 1996 at the young age of 45. Apostolof made two more movies after this, then left the film industry. He made several appearances in Ed Wood documentaries, then died on August 14, 2005, aged 77.

There were actually two different versions of the film being played back then. There was the exploitation version called FUGITIVE GIRLS without the softcore sex scenes, then there was the one with all the softcore sex scenes which was called FIVE LOOSE WOMEN. Now, thanks to Vinegar Syndrome, they were able to restore the film with all of the sexiness and put it out under the title.

Vinegar Syndrome once again has done an incredible job of restoring the film, featuring a newly 2k scan from the 35mm original camera negative. Some of the special features include the following: Audio commentary track with Frank Henenlotter (Exploitation filmmaker) and Rudolph Grey (Ed Wood biographer), archival audio interview with Tallie Cochrane (actress), moderated by Casey Scott, original theatrical and promo trailer, and English SDH Subtitles. The region free Blu-ray/DVD combo pack is limited to only 2,500 units, ans as I am writing this review, there are only eight copies left on their website!!

FUGITIVE GIRLS is a sexploitation cult classic for fans who love these films, and is a required addition to any Ed Wood library!! Here is a film that has been long overdue for a reissue and a rediscovery, and now you have a chance to won this amazing sex-filled, nudity laced, Ed Wood hamming it up acting, and lesbian loving gem of a flick! So what the hell are you waiting for? Order this movie now! 4 out of 5 stars! Highly recommended!

FUGITIVE GIRLS is available in a Blu-Ray/DVD combo pack from Vinegar Syndrome. To order a copy for yourself, visit their website at vinegarsyndrome.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Exploitation Cinema: THE WAGES OF SIN (1938) from Something Weird Video - February 14, 2019

THE WAGES OF SIN DVD Cover

THE WAGES OF SIN (1938)

Starring Constance Worth, Willy Castello, Blanche Mehaffey, Clara Kimball Young, Carleton Young, Paula Bromleigh
Cinematography by Harvey Gould
Edited by Robert Jahns
Produced by Willis Kent
Directed by Herman E. Webber
Originally released by Willis Kent Productions (as Real Life Dramas)
Released by Something Weird Video

Welcome everybody to a brand new installment series entitled Phil's Exploitation Cinema! In case you don't know the term, an exploitation film, "is a film that attempts to succeed financially by exploiting current trends, niche genres, or lurid content; are generally low-quality B-movies." Since the dawn of cinema, exploitation films have been part of the movie-going experience. Case in point, imagine if you will: The year is 1939. The two biggest films of the year GONE WITH THE WIND and THE WIZARD OF OZ are battling it out at their respective theater chains. But down the street, around the corner, and down an ally way there's an independently owned movie theater where they're showing a different kind of motion picture. One that offers something different, more adult, and more scandalous. The film in question is the exploitation classic THE WAGES OF SIN.

The film's official synopsis: The sole support of her worthless family, Marjorie Benton (Worth) works during the day in a sweat shop. But when Florence (Mehaffey), a co-worker, asks her to go on a blind date, Marjorie’s taken to a roadhouse where she gets her first taste of booze and drugs. Marjorie promptly gets shitfaced and attracts the attention of slimy Tony (Castello). With big plans for her future, Tony arranges to have Marjorie fired from her job, then asks her to move in with him, promising to marry her in the morning. Three months later, they’re still not married when Tony decides to pimp her out. By the time another three months pass, Marjorie’s a hard boiled hooker turning tricks at a local hotel under the “professional name” of Judy. Starting to “look seedy,” Tony finally ships her off to Fat Pearl’s whorehouse. All of which ends with Marjorie on trial for murder and a contest for the audience: “What will the verdict be? $1,000 in cash prizes will be given for the best answers. Mail your opinion in not over 300 words to Real Life Dramas, 4376 Sunset Drive, Hollywood, CA...”

Original Theatrical Poster (1938)

Australian born actress Constance Worth was originally brought over by RKO, but then was dropped her after her first two American features films (1937's CHINA PASSAGE being one of them)  failed at the boxoffice. She worked for about three years at Columbia while also appearing in poverty row films and B-westerns like BORROWED HERO (1941), CITY WITHOUT MEN (1943), and WHY GIRLS LEAVE HOME (1945). She even has an uncredited role in Alfred Hitchcock's 1941 film SUSPICION. Willy Castello was notorious for playing the "heavy" in many B-movies! Look for him playing almost the same character in other Willis Kent films like SMASHING THE VISE TRUST (1937), RACE SUICIDE (1938), and MAD YOUTH (1939). Actress Blanche Mehaffey started off as a dancer with the Ziegfeld Follies before appearing in Hollywood comedies, westerns and dramas. She starred opposite Charley Chase and Glenn Tryon in several short comedies for the Hal Roach Film Company from 1923 to 1929, before leaving to go study voice and languages for more than a year in New York City. She made her return in 1931 film THE SUNSET TRAIL starring opposite Bob Steele. She went on to appear in other B-movies and westerns like RIDER OF THE NORTH (1931), BORDER GUNS (1934), and THE SILENT CODE (1935). She would retire from the movie business after the completion of this movie. 

Producer Willis Kent is one of the most famous producers out of what was dubbed "The Forty Thieves," a group of directors and producers that operated outside the Hollywood Production Code during this time of cinema. Kent started off producing cheap, low budget B-movie westerns before churning out some of the most infamous exploitation films, such as THE PACE THAT KILLS, COCAINE FIENDS, and MAD YOUTH (all available from Something Weird Video), as well as SMASHING THE VISE TRUST, RACE SUICIDE, and his infamous film CONFESSIONS OF A VICE BARON. The reason why this was one of his infamous films was that it was mostly made up of scenes from earlier exploitation films with new footage of actor Willy Castello as a prisoner about to be executed who dictates the the story of his life of crime added on to the front and end of it! Overall, Kent produced 43 films from  1929 till 1958. He passed away in Los Angeles on March 11, 1966 at the age of 87.

Something Weird Video was founded in 1990 by Mike Vraney, a former concert promoter who worked at several theaters during his teenage years. Named after the Herschell Gordon Lewis film, his Seattle based company would specialize in, "in releasing a rich array of low-grade trashy out-of-the-mainstream independent fare on both VHS and DVD alike that runs the gamut from horror features to softcore flicks to vintage classroom scare items to TV commercials to hardcore X-rated smut to theatrical trailers to collections of nudie loops and burlesque clips." He would go on to release the film libraries of some of the greatest exploitation filmmakers of all time, including Lewis, David F. Friedman, Harry H. Novak, Joseph W. Sarno, Doris Wishman, William Grefé, Bethel Buckalew and Barry Mahon. Unfortunately, Vraney died from lung cancer on January 2, 2014. He was only 56 years old. His wife Lisa Petrucci now runs the company and continues the legacy of her late, beloved husband.

THE WAGES OF SIN is one of most famous, funny, cheesy, and ludicrous exploitation films of all time! It's a highly entertaining, wonderfully absurd and bonkers movie that diehard exploitation fans will love and new viewers will get an education on the dangers of drugs, vice, and sex!! If you have never seen an exploitation movie before, this is the perfect place to start!! It doesn't get any better than this!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE WAGES OF SIN is available on DVD-R from Something Weird Video. To purchase a copy for yourself, please visit their website at www.somethingweird.com

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show! 

Phil Gets Tromatized: CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH (1986) from Troma Entertainment - December 15, 2016

CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH Blu-Ray

CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH

Starring Janelle Brady, Gil Brenton, Robert Prichard, James Nugent Vernon, Gary Rosenblatt, Brad Dunker, Gary Schneider, Théo Cohan, Mary Taylor, Pat Ryan
Written by Richard W. Haines, Mark Rudnitsky, Lloyd Kaufman, Stuart Strutin
Cinematography by Michael Mayers
Edited by Richard W. Haines
Produced by Michael Herz, Lloyd Kaufman, James Treadwell, Stuart Strutin
Directed by Richard W. Haines, Lloyd Kaufman (as Samuel Weil)
Released by Troma Entertainment
Originally released on December 12, 1986

Welcome back to another installment of Phil Gets Tromatized!! Today's entry is a special one because I am celebrating the anniversary of one of Troma's greatest films ever and my personal favorite! Combining over the top violence, high school hijinks, teen sex, peer pressure, drug use, social commentary and environmental issues, CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH is one of the classics from the Troma library!

The film's official synopsis: Created by the same lunatics who brought you the smash cult classic THE TOXIC AVENGER, CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH takes place in the radioactive halls of Tromaville High School, where a dangerous leak turns great minds into great mutants. Expose yourself to outrageously awesome doses of science fiction, horror action and bizarre humor. This nuclear age movie has something for everyone... and everything. Your entertainment level will shoot right off the meter!

Phil sees SAUSAGE PARTY from Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures - December 18, 2016

Every now and then I'll see a movie that completely takes me into another world that I've never seen before. Others introduce me to exciting and interesting characters that I've never met before or show  me stories and lives that I haven't lived yet. And then there another film's that make ask myself, "What the f*ck to I just f*cking Watch?!? Seriously, what the f*ck was that?!?" Yup, this happened to me recently when I finally sat down to watch SAUSAGE PARTY from Sony Pictures.

The film's official synopsis: In this R-rated CG-animated movie, one sausage leads a group of supermarket products on a quest to discover the truth about their existence and what really happens when they become chosen to leave the grocery store. The film features the vocal talents of some of today’s best comedy stars – Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, Jonah Hill, Bill Hader, Michael Cera, James Franco, Danny McBride, Craig Robinson, Paul Rudd, Nick Kroll, David Krumholtz, Edward Norton, and Salma Hayek.

Ok, I'm forgoing my usual review and just doing something completely different. Was this an original film? Yes. Was it funny? We're the voiceover actors great? Yes. Did it have funny characters? Yes. Was it politically incorrect? Yes. Was it racist? Yes. Was it misogynistic? Yes. Was it highly offensive? Yes? Was it way over the top? Yes? Was it made for adults? Yes. And lastly, was I entertained? Yes I was!!

I can honestly say that I have never seen anything like this before! Ever! And I've watched some crazy shit in my lifetime!! I mean for crying out loud, I watch Troma movies!! But this was something all together new. And the end of the third act?!? Holy shit I did not see that coming at all!! All I can say is that that shit never happened when I worked at Safeway back in the day!!

SAUSAGE PARTY is one of the most f*cked up, disturbing and hilarious animated comedies I have ever seen!! And it's also the best comedy film of 2016!! The filmmakers really pushed the envelope with this movie! It's not what you'd expect. It's something more, way more than you can possibly imagine. So, if you want to politically and socially offended, then go see this movie!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

SAUSAGE PARTY is still playing in select theaters across the country. The movie is also available on Blu-Ray and DVD. It is also available on iTunes, Video On Demand, Netflix and Redbox.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil sees CABIN FEVER from IFC Midnight-February 20, 2016

In 2002, filmmaker Eli Roth made a huge splash in the horror genre with his directorial debut CABIN FEVER. A homage to Sam Raimi's EVIL DEAD, Roth's film's was a breathe of fresh (or contaminated) air. After two less than stellar straight-to-video sequels, the series was reported to receive a reboot using Roth's original screenply with Travis Zariwny directing it. Now I found this bit of news perplexing considering that the original film came out only 14 years ago. However, one must remember that this is Hollywood we're talking so I shouldn't have of been surprised. Once the film was completed, the film was picked for distribution by IFC Midnight. So let's talk about what I thought about the remake of CABIN FEVER.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2016)

The film's official synopsis: Executive producer Eli Roth presents this reboot of his instant classic gorefest, which features all new characters and all new kills. The story is familiar: fresh out of college, a group of five friends retreat to a remote cabin in the woods for one last week of partying—only to become snacks for a gruesome, flesh-eating virus. What’s surprising are the ingenious new deaths, which offer a fresh spin on a horror-comedy milestone. With Gage Golightly (Teen Wolf) and Dustin Ingram (PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3).

So what did I think of it!? It was OK. There were some cool stuff in it but mostly it was a shot-for-shot remake of the original. My understanding is that the filmmakers used Roth's original script but all the deaths were going to be changed and they incorporated aspects into the film that Roth wasn't able to include. So believe what you want but it was entertaining, albeit an unessesary remake. But I'll explain to you all in more detail what I liked about it.

First up is the cast. The stand-outs for me were actresses Nadine Crocker who portrays Marcy in this version (Cerina Vincent played her in the original). Crocker's performance was really good and she goes full throttle in her performance and doesn't hold back. Her acting is believable, showed great range of emotions and her sex scenes were very hot. I was surprised by how raw and risqué those scenes were because she was very much in the moment. Very beautiful, sexy and talented, I hope to see more of Miss Crocker. The other actress I enjoyed watching was Louise Linton as Deputy Winston. While she didn't get a lot of screen time, I really enjoyed her interpretation of the character. Now as many of you recall, actor Giuseppe Andrews originally portrayed the deputy in the original film. Zariwny changed the character from male to female because he thought there as no way to recapture Andrews' performance. 

Some new ingredients to the remake/reboot include this crazy infested dog, which as a cool concept. The formentioned Deputy Winston gender swap was a good idea. Again, all the character's death scenes were completely different and very gory, which was a lot of fun to watch. Let's see what else am I missing here......well hell's bells, I think that's about it! Oh, during the end credits we see the police arriving and taking away all the dead bodies. So yeah, that's all folks!

Travis Zariwny is best known as a production designer, having worked on films like BEHIND THE MASK: THE RISE OF LESLIE VERNON, WAKE, CHILLERAMA, SUGAR and DIGGING UP THE MARROW. His previous directing duties include SCAVENGERS, INTRUDER and a couple of short films. Overall, I can't really comment on his style cause this was a rehash of the original and I saw nothing new here. I'll have to view his other two films to better make a critique of his directing style.

CABIN FEVER is an OK remake, but honestly, there was no reason to remake the movie. It was perfectly fine but some people can't leave well enough alone. Truth be told, I thought that trailer was better than the film itself. So if you want to see this remake, go ahead but you're better off watching the original. 2 out of 5 stars! It's a rental at best!

CABIN FEVER is playing in limited release in select theaters nationwide. It's also available through Video On Demand. To learn more about upcoming releases, visit the IFC Films website at www.ifcfilms.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil Gets Tromatized: THE TOXIC AVENGER (1984) from Troma Entertainment-Feb. 8, 2016

THE TOXIC AVENGER Blu-Ray/DVD (2015)

THE TOXIC AVENGER

Starring: Andree Maranda, Mitch Cohen, Mark Torgl, Jennifer Babtist, Cindy Manion, Robert Prichard, Gary Schneider, Pat Ryan

Written by Joe Ritter, Gay Partington Terry & Lloyd Kaufman

Cinematography by Lloyd Kaufman & James A. Leobovitz (James London)

Edited by Richard W. Haines

Produced by Lloyd Kaufman & Michael Herz

Directed by Michael Herz & Lloyd Kaufman (Samuel Weil)

Distributed by Troma Entertainment

Hello everybody and welcome to a brand new segment entitled Phil Gets Tromatized. Here, I'll be reviewing the many, many films that Troma has released over the past 42 years. Now some movies are classics, some alright and there are those that suck horribably. However, for my inaugural entry, I'll be talking about the most famous hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength and the first superhero from New Jersey: THE TOXIC AVENGER.

The film's official synopsis: Meet little Melvin. He's a 98lbs loser who works at the Tromaville Health Club where he gets picked on a lot. But when a practical joke goes awry, Melvin falls into a vat of chemical waste, thus transforming him into a hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength. Melvin becomes The Toxic Avenger, the first superhuman from New Jersey! Soon Toxie is fighting crime and cleaning up Tromaville, much to the chagrin of its fat corrupt Mayor Peter Belgoody (Pat Ryan). But can Toxie and his blind and beautiful girlfriend Sara (Andree Maranda) survive the wrath of the mayor's revenge?

Original Teaser Poster (1984)

Every time I watch this movie, I feel like I'm eighteen years-old again. Being a movie lover, I had never seen anything like this. It was absolutely amazing to watch. Kaufman and Herz also added social commentary to the film, touching on issues like chemical waste, the environment, the underdog becoming the hero and more. There's always something interesting to look for in a Troma movie.

This is the film that put Troma on the map. Originally, nobody wanted to see the film. But when it was booked at the midnight screenings at the Bleeker Street Cinema, the word of mouth spread. Soon there were lines around the block. With its gratuitous nudity, gore, the infamous head crushing scene, toilet humor, and not so special effects, the film went on to win the hearts of fans and became an instant cult classic! The film has spawned three sequels to date (with a fourth one in the works), a children's cartoon show, merchandise, action figures, books, games, etc. Troma had created their own mascot and the world hasn't been the same since. The little New York independent film studio had just became part of pop culture and film history.

To this day, I still get excited whenever I watch the THE TOXIC AVENGER. And finally, after years of seeing the movie on edited VHS copies, Troma released a director's cut of the film back in the mid 90's. Now in the 21st century, it has been transferred on to Blu-Ray and it looks phenomenal. As a result, a whole new generation of fans can now discover this cult classic in hi-definition and get the same kind of excitement as I have been experiencing for the past 22 years. 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE TOXIC AVENGER is now available on both standard DVD and as a Blu-Ray/DVD combo. To purchase a copy for yourself, visit your local retailer or visit the Troma website at www.troma.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil sees TRAINWRECK from Universal Pictures-December 29, 2015

Let me first start this review off by making this very important statement: I love Amy Schumer. Seriously I love Amy Schumer. I think she's funny, sassy, and smoking hot. She has the sexiest legs I have ever seen. And those eyes; they look so sultry but yet tough and independent. She has more balls than most of her male comedian peers. She's fearless when it comes to her stand-up performances. And those legs. Good grief I love this woman! I love you Amy!! OK, sorry about that people. I just had to get that off my chest. Now all of this leads up to today's review of her film TRAINWRECK which I finally saw.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Since she was a little girl, it's been drilled into Amy's (Amy Schumer) head by her rascal of a dad Gordon (Colin Quinn) that monogamy isn't realistic. Now a magazine writer, Amy lives by that credo - enjoying what she feels is an uninhibited life free from stifling, boring romantic commitment - but in actuality, she's kind of in a rut. When she finds herself starting to fall for the subject of the new article she's writing, a charming and successful sports doctor named Aaron Conners (Bill Hader), Amy starts to wonder if other grown-ups, including this guy who really seems to like her, might be on to something.

Also appearing in the film are Brie Larson (Kim), Vanessa Bayer (Nikki), Tilda Swinton (Dianna), Dave Attell (Noam ), WWE wrestler John Cena (Steven), Norman Lloyd (Norman) and LeBron James as LeBron James with cameos by Daniel Radcliffe and Marisa Tomei.

Amy Schumer is just laugh-out-loud hilarious in the film. Her performance as the swearing, drinking, pot smoking, rude, unapologetic, promiscuous, does whatever she feels like is so refreshing, honest and real. Now not only is she a really funny comedian and a talented actress but she also wrote the film as well! Her script is spot-on accurate with today's women who are just as rude, crude and sexist as their male counterparts. I had no problem laughing at the film. I think we need to see more female characters like Amy in today's films. We also get to see her grow as a person when she's caught off guard and falls in love with Bill Hader's character Aaron. It was interesting to see Bill play the straight guy cause usually he's the comic relief. When these two are on the screen together, there's magic right there. Their on-screen chemistry is perfect and we, the audience, fall in love with these crazy kids and we want them to be together. Truly, they are the perfect couple we can all relate to because they are us and vise versa.

Another aspect I thoroughly enjoyed were the funny, eccentric and diverse supporting cast. Quinn's Gordon is a misogynistic, racist, inconsiderate douchebag father we all love to hate, but we really do love guy. Swinton's Dianna is pretty much just as bad as Amy but only with a sexy British accent. Lovable Norm is a lovable guy that we wish was our grandfather. Dave Attell is Noam, who is one funny bum that I would like to have drink and piss with in the back of an alley. But the biggest surprise is wrestling superstar John Cena has the big, buff, homoerotic bodybuilder who seems very gay. I only say this based on the freaking hysterical dialogue he says in the film, especially during the sex scene and again in the movie theater. Trust me when I say that it is some funny ass shit!

The film was directed by the very talented Judd Apatow, the man responsible for making THE 40 YEAR-OLD-VIRGIN, KNOCKED UP and FUNNY PEOPLE and produced  PINEAPPLE EXPRESS, BRIDESMAIDS and the ANCHORMAN films. Amy actually wrote the script with having Apatow directing it in mind so this was a match made in heaven. Great set-ups, awesome shots of New York and just overall an awesome and incredible director.

TRAINWRECK is my absolute favorite, laugh-out-loud, so funny my balls hurt, raunchy, vulgar, feel good, romantic comedy of the year!! So for all you ladies and couples out there who are tired of seeing the same old, boring, predictable rom-coms, then this film is for you! And don't forget to bring your box wine! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

TRAINWRECK is now available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. The movie is also available at your local Redbox as well as on Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil attends the TROMA MARATHON at the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica-March 29, 2014

The Aero Theatre marquee displays the Troma Marathon.

Hello again! So while Bobby, Michelle, and I were attending Monsterpalooza, that same weekend there was a Troma Movie Marathon over at the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, which was about a half hour away from Burbank. They were going to show four classic Troma movies: THE TOXIC AVENGER, CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH, TROMEO & JULIET, and it's newest release RETURN TO NUKE 'EM HIGH: VOLUME 1. Now what made this event even more special was that Troma President and co-founder Lloyd Kaufman was there live in-person!! Now I have been a fan ever since I saw the first three TOXIC AVENGER films on the old USA Up All Night program back on a cold Saturday night in February of 1992. These three films changed my life forever, and 22 years later, I was going to finally meet my hero and idol!!

Mark Torgl and myself outside the Aero Theatre.

The theater lobby was packed with fellow Tromites (Troma fans as they are affectionately called) and for the first time, I felt like I was home. Lloyd and his wife Pat had a table set up filled with Troma merchandise: DVDs, Blu-rays, stickers, buttons, posters, comics, they had it all! Plus Toxie was there as well as other celebrities such as Mark Torgl, who played Melvin the mopboy in the first TOXIC AVENGER film and the sequel CITIZEN TOXIE: THE TOXIC AVENGER PART IV. I was able to shack his hand get an autograph from him. A really cool guy who also just happens to have an Indiegogo fundraiser to help make his new project TOXIC TUTU. To learn more about this project and to make a donation, please visit the website http://toxictutu.com.

I also saw some old friends of mine. SpookyDan was on hand there, as well as Will Keenan from TROMEO & JULIET, TERROR FIRMER, and a film I saw at Cinequest 22 entitled THE GHASTLY LOVE OF JOHNNY X (you can read all about that infamous screening here). Also in attendance was Alyce LaTourelle, Will's co-star from TERROR FIRMER who also just happens to be his wife! How cool is that? Plus Count Smokula was there to entertain fans with his outstanding accordion skills and E. Yarber, the man who wrote tonight's program that was handed out to fans entitled 40 Years of Troma-More Than Meets the Bile. At 7:30pm, it was time for the marathon to begin!

Troma President Lloyd Kaufman and Mark Torgl.

Lloyd thanked all the Troma fans out in the audience that came out for this historic event, which was hosted by the American Cinematheque. He engaged the audience by having a Q&A session, which was being video recorded by his lovely wife and former New York City Film Commissioner Pat. Will Keenan and Mark Torgl also participated for bit. Count Smokula also serenaded the crowd. Plus making his first SoCal appearance was Stefan Dezil, who portrayed Slater in the RETURN TO NUKE 'EM HIGH. For me, it was so great to be able to interact with Lloyd, Pat, Mark, and even Will. What I love about Lloyd and Troma is they are very loyal to their fans. I had Lloyd autograph just about everything I own and he did it without hesitation. Name one studio head that would do that? None! As long as there is a Troma, I will always be a fan! Now, let's talk about all the movies I saw on that Tromatic night!!

Theatrical Movie Poster (1984)

THE TOXIC AVENGER (1984): Meet little Melvin. He's a 98lbs loser who works at the Tromaville Health Club where he gets picked on a lot. But when a practical joke goes awry, Melvin falls into a vat of chemical waste, thus transforming him into a hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength. Melvin becomes The Toxic Avenger, the first superhuman from New Jersey! Soon Toxie is fighting crime and cleaning up Tromaville, much to the chagrin of its fat corrupt Mayor Peter Belgoody (Pat Ryan). But can Toxie and his blind and beautiful girlfriend Sara (Andree Maranda) survive the wrath of the mayor's revenge?

This is the film that put Troma on the map. Originally, nobody wanted to see the film. But when it was booked at the midnight screenings at the Bleeker Street Cinema, the word of mouth spread. Soon there were lines around the block. With its gratuitous nudity, gore, the infamous head crushing scene, toilet humor, and not so special effects, the film went on to win the hearts of fans and became an instant cult classic! The film spawned three sequels to date (with a fourth one in the works), a children's cartoon show, merchandise, action figures, books, games, etc. As we speak, Hollywood is working on a big budget remake of the film. Click here to view the film's original trailer.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1986)

CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH (1986): Tromaville High is your typical ordinary American high school, with just one exception. It's located only one mile away from the Tromaville Nuclear Power Plant! When the plant has a major meltdown, its toxic chemical waste seeps into the school's water supply, thus transforming students into Cretans! High school couple warren and Chrissy (Gil Brenton and Janelle Brady respectively) are the only ones who notice that something's wrong, but when their mutant baby becomes a chemical creature of destruction, they have no choice but to blow up their school!

This is personally my favorite Troma film. It has it all: hot naked chicks, high school pranks, mutant monsters, Cretans, teenage rebellion, destruction to private and public property, and drug usage. What's not to like about all of that? My favorite scenes were all the exterior shots, which were filmed beautifully. Troma Fun Fact: When the film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, the radioactive dust from Chernobyl was blowing over the south of France (this fun fact came courtesy of Lloyd Kaufman's first book All I Need to Know About Filmmaking I Learned from the Toxic Avenger which I highly recommended reading). Click here to view the film's original trailer.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1996)

TROMEO & JULIET (1996): Body Piercing, Kinky Sex, Dismemberment. The things that made Shakespeare great! With both Will Keenan and Jane Jensen cast in the lead roles as our favorite star crossed lovers, the film takes place in the modern world where the war between the Capulets and the Ques begin to escalate. But can true love conquer hate or will Tromeo and Juliet suffer the same fate as their past incarnations?

After being in a creative slump, Kaufman bounces back with this ingenious adaptation of Shakespeare's beloved classic. The film also boasts an exceptional soundtrack with music by bands such as Motorhead, Superchunk, Ass Ponys, Supernova, The Meatmen as well as Jane Jensen herself. Troma Fun Fact: the movie was written by James Gunn, who would go on later to write the two SCOOBY-DOO films and the DAWN OF THE DEAD remake. He also wrote and directed the horror film SLITHER, the superhero parody SUPER, and the upcoming Marvel Studio blockbuster GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY. Hard to believe it, but it's true! Click here to view the film's original trailer.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2014)

RETURN TO NUKE 'EM HIGH: VOLUME 1 (2014): The newest Tromamasterpiece from Lloyd Kaufman. The Tromaville Nuclear Power Plant has been torn down to make way for the Tromorganic Foodstuffs Conglomerate. But when bloggers and lesbian lovers Chrissy and Lauren (Asta Paredes and Catherine Corcoran respectively) begin to sense that something is amiss, the Tromaville High Glee Club is mysteriously transformed into a vicious gang of Cretins! And just what is wrong with Lauren's pet Kevin the Wonder Duck? Can these two luscious lipstick lesbian loves lick this investigation?

While both equal parts a remake and a sequel, Kaufman demonstrates that he still has that magic touch. The film is filled with humor (both political and satirical), social commentary on school lunches, evil corporations, violence in schools, and gay rights. Oh, and it still has all the gore, violence, and nudity that one would expect from a Troma movie. Originally the film was one long feature until Quentin Tarantino suggested to Kaufman that he split the film into two volumes like he did with his film KILL BILL. Overall this is another worthy entry in the franchise that all of you out there should see! And guess what? The movie is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD so go out there and pick up a copy for yourself! Click here to view the film's trailer.

And folks, there you have it! One of the most amazing cinematic experiences I have ever had! Meeting Lloyd, Pat, Mark, Keenan, Toxie and the rest of the gang was awesome!! So do yourself a favor, if you've never seen a Troma film, I would recommend seeing these four movies today! All of these cinematic gems and more are available to buy on Blu-Ray, DVD, and digital download. To learn more about Troma, their film library, and to make purchases, visit their website at www.troma.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil hosts the Cult Movie Screening of TWIN PEAKS: FIRE WALK WITH ME at the Camera 3 in Downtown San Jose-June 13, 2013

Hello again everybody and welcome to Month Five of the 2013 Cult Movie series at the Camera 3 in Downtown San Jose! Now for those of you who are late to the game, let me explain this cool series. In 2011 the Camera Cinemas started up the Cult Movie series (which for years had been called the Midnight Movie series). They would show one cult film twice a month (Thursday nights at 9:30 and Saturday nights at midnight) from February through November. Tonight we screened the David Lynch's 1992 cult film TWIN PEAKS: FIRE WALK WITH ME. Once again yours truly was back as the host for tonight's screening. Prizes were donated by Streetlight Records and by Time Tunnel Toys, both located here in San Jose. There were also yummy donuts to eat, courtesy of Psycho Donuts located in the lobby.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1992)

Essentially a prequel to David Lynch and Mark Frost's earlier TV series "Twin Peaks." The first half-hour or so concerns the investigation by FBI Agent Chet Desmond (Chris Isaak) and his partner Sam Stanley (Kiefer Sutherland) into the murder of night-shift waitress Teresa Banks in the small Washington state town of Deer Meadow. When Desmond finds a mysterious clue to the murder, he inexplicably disappears. The film then cuts to one year later in the nearby town of Twin Peaks and follows the events during the last week in the life of Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee) a troubled teenage girl with two boyfriends; the hot-tempered rebel Bobby Briggs (Dana Ashbrook) and quiet biker James Hurley (James Marshall), her drug addiction, and her relationship with her difficult (and possible schizophrenic) father Leland (Ray Wise), a story in which her violent murder was later to motivate much of the TV series.

If you have never seen this film before, it's a freaking trip! It's not for the faint of heart. Don't watch this before you go to bed because it will give you nightmares. Seriously, it will. It will f*ck with your head so badly you will seek psychiatric help. It's an amazing film, don't get me wrong! But it's a pretty f*cked up movie. But then again, we are talking about David Lynch here. The man who gave some truly outstanding and sureal cinematic gems such as ERASERHEAD, BLUE VELVET, WILD AT HEART, MULHOLLAND DRIVE, and ISLAND EMPIRE. A true definition of the word auteur, you will never mistake his films with any other director!

The film was released to theaters by New Line Cinema on August 28, 1992. The film's budget was an astounding $10 million dollars. Unfortunately, it only grossed $4,160,851. It literally bombed at the boxoffice. The only people who saw the film were the die hard fans of the show and Lynch's loyal fans. But when it was released on VHS, that's when word of mouth began to spread, and the film is now regarded as one of his best films!

Remember folks, the Camera 3 will be showing one cult classic film every month from now till November. Next month we'll be screening Steven Spielberg's 1981 action film RAIDER OF THE LOST ARK on July 18th and again on July 20th. So make plans to attend this screening folks! To view their upcoming schedule, visit the Camera Cinemas website at www.cameracinemas.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 28: Phil reviews THE HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW (1983) 2-Disc Set from Scorpion Releasing-October 28, 2012

HOUSE 2-Disc DVD Cover (2012)

THE HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW
Starring: Kathryn McNeil, Eileen Davidson, Janis Zido, Robin Meloy, Harley Kozak, Jodi Draigie, Ellen Dorsher, Lois Kelso Hunt, Christopher Lawrence, Michael Kuhn, Michael Sergio, Ruth Walsh
Written by Mark Rosman with additional dialogue by Bobby Fine
Produced by John G. Clark, Ed Beyer, Igo Kantor, Mark Rosman
Executive produced by John Ponchock and W. Thomas McMahon
Directed by Mark Rosman
Originally released by Film Ventures International (FVI)
Distributed by Scorpion Releasing

The final days of my horror movie marathon are coming close to an end, so let's get right into Day Twenty-Eight! Today's film comes to us once again from the early 80's. The film is a genre classic. In fact, it's so popular that it was remade in 2009. Today's film is the horror slasher film THE HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW.

Here is the film's synopsis: Seven sorority sisters, Katey (Katherine McNeil) Morgan (Jodi Draigie), Stevie (Ellen Dorsher), Liz (Janis Zedo), Vicki (Eileen Davidson), Jeanie (Robin Meloy), and Diane (Harley Jane Koazak) pull a prank on their strict house mother, Mrs. Slater, who is known for carrying a sharp walking cane. However it goes horribly awry and she winds up dead. Panicking, the girls try to hide the body, but someone (or something) witnessed the crime and begins to stalk them.

Healmed by first time director Mark Rosman, the movie was filmed on location in Baltimore, Marylland on a budget of just $425,000. Now the film has some good characters - for once we don't have an utterly virginal heroine whose morals are her strength. Instead we have several girls, most of them scared enough by what is happening to follow Vicky, the rebellious and selfish one, and the heroine as the only one who sees that Vicky is actually quite a stupid and uncaring bitch of a character. While it's not overtly gory, the death scenes are great and convincing, there is plenty of suspense and you are always kept hooked.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1983)

The film was released in US theaters on January 21, 1983, and took in $617,661 in its opening weekend. It would go on to gross a whopping $10,604,986! On November 14, 2000, Elite Entertainment released the movie on DVD. Then was re-printed and released again on November 18, 2003. Then it became out of print, but was once again re-released on January 12, 2010 as a special 25 year special anniversary edition. Soon this edition became out of stock as well.

Now this new 2-Disc DVD version comes courtesy from Scorpion Releasing, as part of the label's "Katarina's Nightmare Theatre" series. Special features on Disc One include: Katarina s Nightmare Theater format with our hostess Katarina Leigh Waters or play feature only, Brand New 16x9 (1:78) HD master from the original IN, Brand New audio commentary with Director Mark Rosman moderated by Katarina Leigh Waters, Bonus commentary with Stars Kate McNeil, Eileen Davidson and director Mark Rosman, On camera interview with co-star Harley Jane Kozak, 3 TV spots, Thearical Trailers, Storyboard Comparisons, Photo Gallery, Alternate Ending. The special features on Disc Two include: On camera interview with star Kate McNeil conducted by Katarina Leigh Waters, On camera interview with star Eileen Davidson conducted by Katarina Leigh Waters, On camera interview with Director Mark Rosman conducted by Katarina Leigh Waters, On camera interview with composer Richard Band, and an On camera interview with co-producer Igo Kantor.

THE HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW is a great 80's horror slasher classic! So do yourself a favor tonight. Make some popcorn, turn off the lights, and have a good time watching this movie! But don't watch it alone,especially on a college campus! 4 1/2 out of 5 stars! Highly Recommended!!

THE HOUSE ON SORORITY ROW is currently available on DVD from Scorpion Releasing. To purchase a copy for yourself, visit your local retailer or visit their official website at www.scorpionreleasing.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 22: Phil reviews FINAL EXAM (1981) DVD from Scorpion Releasing-October 22, 2012

FINAL EXAM DVD Cover (2011)

FINAL EXAM
Starring: Cecile Bagdadi, Joel S. Rice, Ralph Brown, DeAnna Robbins, John Fallon, Sherry Willis-Burch, Mary Ellen Withers, Timothy L. Raynor, Sam Kilman, Terry W. Farren
Produced by Carol Bahoric, Myron Meisel
Executive produced by John L. Chambliss, Lon J. Kerr, Michael Mahern
Written and Directed by Jimmy Huston
Originally released by Avco Embassy Pictures
Distributed by Scorpion Releasing

It's getting down to the wire folks so let's get Day Twenty-Two started! Here's another great and often overlooked horror film from the early 1980's. The film came out at the beginning of the slasher cycle of films that began with HALLOWEEN and FRIDAY THE 13TH. With these two films, there cam an avalanche of slasher films, ready to terrify audiences all around the country. With some suspenseful chilling moments and character development, FINAL EXAM is an exceptional slasher film that really does need to be rediscovered.

The film's official synopsis: At Lanier College, the semester is almost over. Exam week is coming to a close when some upper classmen play a prank by staging a phony terrorist attack. But the next excitement in the school won't be a prank. It's something a lot more final than an exam. Students are falling prey to the knife-wielding maniac hell bent on making sure that school is out... forever!

Theatrical Movie Poster (1981)

The film was written and directed by Jimmy Huston, who also directed MY BEST FRIEND IS A VAMPIRE and wrote the screenplay for the buddy cop action/comedy film RUNNING SCARED. Huston does a effective job of creating some moodiness, atmosphere, interesting characters, and a couple of gruesome mutilations. Lead actress Cecile Bagdadi does a great job as our favorite girl Courteny. Joel S Rice plays Radish with real depth as did the other cast members, espcially Wildman, Janet, Lisa, Mark and Gary. Overall they all played they're roles really quite well.

The film was originally released to theaters by Avco Embassy Films on June 5, 1981. The film found new life when it was released on VHS and developed a small cult following. Several years later, BCI released this film on DVD in September 2008 (that DVD is now out of print). On September 20, 2011 Scorpion Releasing re-released the film on DVD as part of the label's "Katarina's Nightmare Theatre" series. Special features include a hi-def transfer of the film, special introduction from host Katarina Leigh Waters, a brand new audio commentary with producer Myron Meisel, on camera interviews with some members of the cast and crew, and the film's original trailer.

FINAL EXAM is great little slasher film that deserves a second look! Scorpion Releasing has done a great job re-releasing the film and now you can enjoy this seldom seen slasher film. 3 1/2 out of 5 stars! Recommended!

FINAL EXAM is currently available on DVD from Scorpion Releasing. To purchase a copy for yourself, visit your local retailer or visit their official website at www.scorpionreleasing.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 21: Phil reviews EXCISION (2012) Blu-Ray from Anchor Bay Entertainment-October 21, 2012

EXCISION Blu-Ray Cover (2012)

EXCISION
Starring AnnaLynne McCord, Traci Lords, Ariel Winter, Roger Bart, Jeremy Sumpter, Malcolm McDowell, Matthew Gray Gubler, Marlee Matlin, Ray Wise, and John Waters
Produced by Dylan Hale Lewis
Executive Produced by Mark Linehan Bruner
Written and Directed by  Richard Bates, Jr.
A BXR Productions
Distributed by Anchor Bay Films

Here is it folks: Day Twenty-One! Thanks for joining me on my horror movie marathon! For today's film, I chose to review another indie horror film that was just released on Blu-Ray. With the onslaught of sequels, remakes, poorly made horror films coming out of Hollywood, the only pace to see unique and original genre film is in the indie scene, where a lot of filmmakers are pushing the boundaries and conventions of what defines a horror movie. Case in point today's film, which comes courtesy from Anchor Bay Entertainment. The film EXCISION can be best described as an art house horror film that combines horror and black comedy to create something extraordinary!

Here is the film's official synopsis: Based on writer/director Richard Bates, Jr.’s short film of the same name, EXCISION follows a disturbed and delusional high school student, Pauline (AnnaLynne McCord).  Pauline, with aspirations of a career in medicine, goes to extremes to earn the approval of her controlling mother (played by Traci Lords).  While dealing with both being an outcast teenager and having an obsession over curing her sister’s cystic fibrosis, Pauline becomes increasingly deranged as her fascination with surgery and flesh and blood grows into something compulsive and demonic, if not epic.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2012)

I have never seen such an ambitious and genre defying film in all my years! It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful horror films ever! I cannot begin describe just how truly incredible the film really is! There is so much going on in the film that it requires multiple viewings to understand all the themes going on.

AnnaLynne McCord is just riveting in her portrayal of outcast misfit Pauline. She shuns her beauty as found in her performance of Naomi Clarkon the CW's 90210 and completely transforms herself into the ugly duckling and deeply disturbed Pauline. It's a shame that the Oscars will overlook this performance, but this goes to show you of the Academy's ignorance. A standing ovation for AnnaLynne McCord's best performance ever!

The film premiered at this year's Sundance Film Festival, where it received raved reviews. The film was picked up by Anchor Bay Films and it played in limited released. The film was released last week on both Blu-Ray and DVD.

EXCISION is one of the most beautiful and gut wrenching films ever to come out of the genre! The film is brilliant, the acting is fantastic, the ending is just freaking unbelievable, and you're gonna love it! This is what an art house horror film should be! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

EXCISION is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD and can be purchased at your local retailer or on the film's official website. To purchase a copy visit www.excisionmovie.com. To check out other releases by Anchor Bay Entertainment, visit their website at www.anchorbayentertainment.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 20: Phil reviews THE LOVED ONES (2009) DVD from Paramount Pictures-Oct. 21, 2012

THE LOVED ONES DVD Cover (2012)

THE LOVED ONES
Starring Xavier Samuel, Robin McLeavy, John Brumpton, Victoria Thaine, Richard Wilson, Jessica McNamee
Produced by Mark Lazarus and Michael Boughen
Written and Directed by Sean Byrne
An Ambience Entertainment Production
Released by Paramount Pictures

Hello again everybody and welcome to Day Twenty of my Halloween Horrors Marathon! Today's film comes to us from Australia! Now our friends from Down Under have making genre films for years. During this time they've exported some very cool horror films such as PATRICK, RAZORBACK, and THE HOWLING III: THE MARSUPIALS. Then for some reason it became quiet. Too quiet. However that silence was shattered in 2005 with the release of WOLF CREEK, which shocked and terrified movie goers here in the states. Soon a new crop of filmmakers rose up and began breathing new life in the horror genre. Films like PIGHUNT and THE REEF carry on this time honored tradition of genre filmmaking that began decades ago. The newest film to arrive here in America is THE LOVED ONES, which is one helluva roller coaster ride the likes of which I wasn't expecting. But I did have fun on this ride!

The film's about a young man named Brent (Samuel) who is going to the from with his beautiful girlfriend Holly (Thaine). But when he turns down a prom invite from the school's shy girl Lola (McLeavy), she punishes him and a disturbing series of events unfolds for poor Brent that even he could not have imagined.

Theatrical Movie poster (2009)

Good lord was this an awesome film! It poses the question, "What if John Hughes made a teen horror film?" Well this film answers that question in spades! The film starts off with great promise: interesting characters, raging teen hormones and angst, pot smoking, pink satin, glitter, syringes, nails, power drills and a secret admirer. Nothing can prepare you for the horrors that is being an Australian teenager!

Lola is one of the greatest female villains in horror film history. Not since Carrie White have we've seen such a beautiful and deeply disturbed female within the genre. Actress Robin McLeavy is one talented actress who brought so much depth and terror to her role of Lola. An outstanding and riviting performance! Her acting alone is worth checking out the film!

The film was made in 2009 and was released in Australia by Madman Entertainment. It toured the film festival circuit for years thereafter. Then in 2012, the folks from Paramount Pictures finally released the film here in the states on DVD. Bonus features include interviews with Robin McLeavy, Xavier Samuel and special special effects makeup supervisor Justin Dix as well as the film's trailer.

THE LOVED ONES is one of the finest, most enjoyable and original movies the genre has seen in years. The film is destined to live on as a cult classic, hopefully as a midnight movie. 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE LOVED ONES is currently available on DVD and can be purchased at your local retailer or at the Amazon website.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 17: Phil sees V/H/S at the Camera 3 Downtown San Jose-October 17, 2012

My horror movie marathon continues with Day 17! So I headed back to Downtown San Jose to see another horror film. This time I went to the Camera 3 where I saw V/H/S, the new indie horror anthology. Now I first became aware of the film when I discovered the trailer for it on Youtube and it looked incredible! I was very excited to see this film! After yesterday's forgettable screening of SINISTER, I was so looking forward to this one. Now after I've watched it, I can honestly say that it is one of the worst horror films I have ever seen!

Here is the film's official synopsis: A POV, found footage horror film from the perspective of America's top genre filmmakers. A group of misfits are hired by an unknown third party to burglarize a desolate house in the countryside and acquire a rare tape. Upon searching the house, the guys are confronted with a dead body, a hub of old televisions and an endless supply of cryptic footage, each video stranger than the last.

So right off the bat, I would like to point out that the "found footage" idea has been done to death! With the release of 1999's THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT, every wannabe filmmaker has ripped off the film's look and style. Soon there was a glut of horror movies that adapted the "found footage" style and look. So for all you upcoming filmmakers, let me give you some advise: DON'T MAKE A FOUND FOOTAGE FILM! IT'S ALREADY BEEN DONE! CREATE SOMETHING NEW AND DIFFERENT!! THANK YOU FOR READING THIS!! AND YOU'RE WELCOME!!

The main story arc of the film (TAPE 56) was directed by Adam Wingard with shorts helmed by a slew of directors: AMATEUR NIGHT was directed by David Bruckner, SECOND HONEYMOON by Ti West, TUESDAY THE 17TH by Glenn McQuaid, THE SICK THING THAT HAPPENED TO EMILY WHEN SHE WAS YOUNGER was directed by Joe Swanberg, and 10/31/98 was directed by a quartet known as Radio Silence. Out of all of these shorts, the only decent ones were AMATEUR NIGHT and 10/31/98. The rest were all forgettable. I was really disappointed with SECOND HONEYMOON because I am a huge Ti West fan! With his two other films (THE HOUSE OF THE DEVIL and THE INNKEEPERS), West has become of the most popular new filmmakers within the horror genre. However with his short, it went on way too long, and the payoff, which I did like, it wasn't worth the wait to get to it. Really a massive disappointment.

V/H/S gets my vote as one of the worst horror films of 2012! I really wanted to like this film, but it was just a complete waste of time and a complete pile of garbage! The only good part of the film was the trailer! 1 out of 5 stars! Avoid with a passion!

V/H/S is available On-Demand and is playing in select theaters nationwide. To see if it's playing in a town near you, visit the film's official website at www.magnetreleasing.com/vhs/.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 13: Phil attends the Midnites For Maniacs "COUNTDOWN TO HELL" triple feature at the Roxie Theater-October 13, 2012

Welcome to Day Thirteen of my horror movie marathon! So once again I ventured back out to San Francisco to attend another installment of the Midnited for Maniacs show! This time host Jesse Hawthorne Ficks brought the show to the Roxie Theater, located in the Mission District. The theme of tonight's triple feature was "Countdown to Hell" and Ficks screened three of the greatest horror films of all time along with some classic horror trailers. As an added bonus, my good friend and fellow film blogger Jason Wiener (Jason Watches Movies) came out for the show! I also saw my good friend Beatriz Aguilar, who just also happens to be an awesome producer/director for the Fremont based film group called B.O.M. Productions (check out their excellent horror webseries called AMERICAN ZOMBIES on their Youtube channel)! So my fellow creatures of the night, let the horror begin!

Theatrical Movie Poster (2012)

The first film up was A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 3: DREAM WARRIORS. The film reunites Freddy Kruger (Robert England) with his old rival Nancy Thompson (Heather Langenkamp), the only survivor from the first film and now a psychiatrist specializing in dream therapy. When she begins working at a psychiatric institution, she meets the last of the Elm Street kids, who are being terrorized in their sleep by Freddy Kruger. She soon discovers that one of the children Kristen (Patricia Arquette) has a special gift which may help them all destroy Freddy once and for all.

With this installment of the franchise, director Chuck Russell (THE MASK, ERASER, THE SCORPION KING) and Wes Craven (who wrote the screenplay) returned Freddy to his roots: a demonic creature who haunts and kills you in your sleep. This was also the film that introduced many one-liners that would propel Freddy into the stratosphere of popularity. Classic one liners like, "Welcome to Prime Time Bitch!" and "Oohhh what a rush." The film was originally released by New Line Cinema on February 27, 1987 and it grossed over $44.7 million, making it the highest grossing installment of the series. This "horrifying"  35mm film print came courtesy of Warner Brothers. Three Wes Craven trailers were screened before the movie: 2005's RED EYE, 1994's WES CRAVEN'S NEW NIGHTMARE, and 1985's A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 2: FREDDY'S REVENGE as well as the trailer for this film.

Click here to watch the film's original trailer. 

Theatrical Movie Poster (1986)

Film number two for the night was THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE PART 2! It's been a over a decade since the events of the first film and our "friends" are back causing terror once again. When Texas radio DJ Vantia Block (Caroline Williams) records a call-in that evolves two high school graduates being killed by what sounds like a chainsaw, she becomes victimized by the cannibal family, especially by Chop Top (Bill Moseley) and Leatherface (Bill Johnson). Her only hope comes in the form of former Texas Marshall Lieutenant 'Lefty' Enright (Dennis Hopper), who will stop at nothing to stop their trail of death.

Directed by Tobe Hooper and written by L. M. Kit Carson, the movie is a departure from the first film. This sequel was a black comedy slasher film, which caused many Chainsaw fans to cry fowl. The MPAA gave the film an X rating, which meant the film was released to theaters unrated! The film was banned in Australia for over 20 years! But what a lot of people missed was the social commentary of the film. This was a product of the 1980's, therefore, the Regan-era mentality of greed was predominate throughout the decade. That greed is commented in the film with Grandpa Sawyer (Ken Evert) talking about all the money he's making with his chili. The film was released by Canon Films on August 22 (my birthday!), 1986. Ficks screened several modern day sequel trailers before the film: 2003's JEEPERS CREEPERS 2, 2007's HOSTEL 2, 2007's THE HILLS HAVE EYES 2, 2003's FINAL DESTINATION 2, and 2005's THE DEVIL'S REJECTS.

Click here to watch the film's original trailer.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1987)

The final film of the night is considered to be a classic among horror fans. HELLRAISER is one blood-soaked, gooey, gory, twisted film that could only come from the mind of Clive Barker! The film has it all: an unfaithful wife who is in love with her dead husband's brother, who's now a zombie thanks to the demons (angles to some) called the Cenobites. There's also a cool puzzle box and a lot of body parts being ripped off by chains with hooks on them! Yeah, it's that damn good!

The film's based upon the novel The Hellbound Heart by Barker, who also wrote the screenplay and directed the film. This is one of the best indie horror films to come out of the 1980's! Horror fans had never seen anything like this up until then, and it has spawned an unrepresented NINE sequels! The film was originally released here in the states by New World Pictures on September 18, 1987. Before the film, Ficks screened several Clive Barker trailers: 2008's MIDNIGHT MEAT TRAIN, 1995's LORD OF ILLUSIONS, and 1990's NIGHTBREED.

Click here to watch the film's original trailer.

And folks that was my night of horror movie watching! Three great films with great friends in a great theater! The next Midnites for Maniacs show will be on November 2, 2012 at the historic Castro Theatre. The theme for that show is "Celebrate the End of Days" and it will consist of 1991's TERMINATOR 2: JUDGEMENT DAY, 2010's INCEPTION, and 1982's HALLOWEEN III: SEASON OF THE WITCH! So make sure you mark that date on your calender and come on out for some M4M fun! To learn more about Midnites for Maniacs, visit their website at www.midnitesformaniacs.com. To view upcoming shows at the Roxie Theater, visit their website at www.roxie.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!