Phil attends the BEST F(R)IENDS: VOLUME 1 & THE ROOM W/GREG SESTERO EVENT at the 3Below Theaters & Lounge - March 20, 2019

No sooner am I all done with my coverage and film reviews from the 29th Annual Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival, I'm back in Downtown San Jose to cover yet another major cinema event! Tonight I had the pleasure of attending the special screenings of BEST F(R)IENDS: VOLUME 1 & THE ROOM W/GREG SESTERO EVENT over at the 3Below Theaters & Lounge! Needless to say, I was pretty damn excited for this one! Now, some of you out there may be familiar with Sestero's name, having written the book chronicling the making of THE ROOM and his friendship with the man responsible for it: Tommy Wiseau! His book "The Disaster Artist" was made into a Hollywood film in 2017 that starred James Franco (who also directed the film) as Wiseau and his younger brother Dave Franco as Sestero (read my review of that film here). So let's not waste anymore time and get this review started!

Original Theatrical Poster (2017)

The first film screened was the latest project featuring this dynamic duo: BEST F(R)IENDS: VOLUME 1. The film's official synopsis: When a drifter (Sestero) is taken in by a peculiar mortician (Wiseau), the two hatch an underground enterprise off the back of the mortician's old habits. But greed, hatred, and jealousy soon come in turn, and their efforts unravel, causing the drifter to run off with the spoils and leaving the mortician adrift.

I found a lot of things that I really liked in the movie, First, Sestero's script deals with universal themes that we all have experienced in our lives: friendship, love, loyalty, greed, betrayal, and death. It almost has a Shakespearean tragedy to it, but feels very contemporary. Now I thought this while I was watching the movie, wondering if this was intentional or just a happy coincidence. However, during the intermission, Sestero admitted to being very high when he wrote the script, so my question was answered. Once again, he and Wiseau play off each other so damn well and have great on-screen chemistry, and with good reason. Being friends in real life for more than a decade, they have pretty much seen it all and lived to tell about it, and they bring all that experience to their respective roles. Of course, Wiseau steals every scene he's in, but Sestero holds his own, and dare I saw, looks damn handsome! Seriously, he look s like a sexy Jesus with porn star good looks! And dreamy eyes that will warm your cold dead heart. Yeah, I went there! And speaking of dreamy eyes, where the hell did actress Kristen StephensonPino come from? Wow! Not only is she absolutely stunning, but she's a damn fine actress, who plays Sestero's love interest and is the catalyst for what happens in the third act! Even though she's only acted in a handful of movies, I'll be watching this woman's acting career with great interest! And yes, she's in Volume 2, so I gotta see what she does next!

Director Justin MacGregor has some really cool shots and compositions that help bring Sestero's script to life, keeping the movie moving at a decent pace. Plus he got some awesome drone shots! Like, a shitload of drone shots! What I also liked about his directing was that it a hybrid of both arthouse style and traditional filmmaking. I dug his style immensely and I can't wait to what he does with Volume 2.

Overall, BEST F(R)IENDS: VOLUME 1 is great cult classic/midnight movie/indie film that cult enthusiasts and brave moviegoers will love and appreciate! Fans of the Wiseau and Sestero team-up will have a blast seeing these two back up on the big screen! 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended viewing!

After the film, Sestero came up on stage and participated in a hilariously funny and engaging and informative Q&A with the audience. Afterwards, we all got up stage to meet him, take pictures with him, and get some cool swag from him! Yours truly bought the Blu-ray with both movies on it, and Sestero autographed it for me as well! Again, this is one cool, laid back guy that you need to meet!

Original Theatrical Poster (2003)

The second film in tonight's double feature was the 2003 cult classic that started it all: THE ROOM. The film's official synopsis: The film is an electrifying black comedy about love, passion, betrayal and lies, starring "The Disaster Artist" himself, writer/director Tommy Wiseau. He plays a successful banker with a great respect for—and dedication to—the people in his life, especially his best friend Mark (Greg Sestero) and future wife Lisa (Juliette Danielle). As the film depicts friendships and relationships in the lives of its five major characters, it raises life's real and most-asked question: "Can you really trust anyone?"

The is one of the most infamous films ever made!! It's widely known as one of the worst movies ever made!! And I fucking love it!! With high levels of campiness, inept dialogue, and see-through plot, insane bantering, chicken clucking, and one of the most outrageous endings ever captured on celluloid!! This is a perfect example of what a true midnight movie should be!!

It's been a long time since I've watched this movie, and despite all its faults (which there is a plethora of!), there's a lot of heart and passion found within its insanely bizarre frames. Wiseau put his heart and soul (and allegedly $6 million of his own money) into this project, with the intention that it would launch his career and make him world famous! It did, for very different reasons! If you have seen THE DISASTER ARTIST, then you know the whole story. But I give him credit, he was able to take a negative and turned it into a very popular and profitable positive! Ever since its initial release, the movie has played all over the country to packed houses at midnight screenings! If you have never seen the movie, then you need to get out of the house more often! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

And there you have it folks!! What a wild and crazy night it was here in Downtown San Jose! But the the fun has just begun! Both movies are on tour, so make sure you check your local listings to see if either film is playing at a theater near you! To learn more about BEST F(R)IENDS: VOLUME 1 and the upcoming tour screenings with Greg Sestero, visit the official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bestfriendsmovie. To learn more about THE ROOM and the upcoming tour screenings with filmmaker Tommy Wiseau, visit the film's official website at theroommovie.com. To learn more about the 3 Below Theaters & Lounge, their schedule of films and shows, and ticket pricings, visit their website at 3belowtheaters.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil counts down to the 14th Annual ANOTHER HOLE IN THE HEAD FILMFEST at the New People Cinema in Japantown, San Francisco October 25th - November 8th, 2017

One of the aspects I love about living here in the Bay Area is all the awesome films festivals that are held here. One of these is the upcoming 15th Annual ANOTHER HOLE IN THE HEAD FILM FESTIVAL, which is presented by SF IndieFest and will be held at the New People Cinema, located in Japantown, San Francisco. From November 28th through December 15th, 2018, fans of horror, sci-fi and fantasy genres can witness a total of 29 films and 94 short films during the festival's 15-day run!

The festival kicks off with the its Opening Night's Film THE GOD INSIDE MY EAR. The directorial debut from write/director Joe Badon, the film is, "a challenging yet wholly accessible and satisfying blend of surrealism, horror, psychological thriller, and science fiction. Imagine Repulsion by way of David Lynch and Luis Bunuel, with some Douglas Sirk high melodrama for good measure, and you start to sense what you are in for.  It is also a marvel of independent filmmaking, and its terrific production values belie that it was made in 13 days for a mere $8,000." Last year's Opening Night Film MOHAWK was distributed by Dark Sky Films and has went on to great acclaim, so don't be surprised if THE GOD INSIDE MY EAR will repeat this trend!

There are plenty of independent film screenings and events at the festival this year, including the "based on true events" sci-fi film THE PHOENIX INCIDENT on November 30th at 7pm, the documentary SURVIVAL OF THE FILM FREAKS, which focuses on, "how technology has changed the way we define and consume cult cinema." The documentary will be screened on Saturday, December 1st at 5pm. Another film that you all should definitely see is the modern day, women-in-prison masterpiece AMAZON HOT BOX, playing on Monday, December 3rd at 7pm. This film has a special place in my heart because I donated to its original Kickstarter and I received the limited edition signed Blu-Ray, but still, go watch this movie! Another interesting documentary that will be screened at the festival is INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENT: THE STORY OF WAX TRAX! RECORDS, chronicling. "Wax Trax! Records began in a tiny storefront in Denver Co in the mid 70s. At the center of Wax Trax! are two music-obsessed men and their taboo love affair." Due to popular interest, the festival will be having to screenings: Friday, December 7th and Wednesday, December 12th, both start at 7pm.

EVIL DEAD REVISION on Thursday, December 6th.

The festival will also be featuring some very cool and fascinating events, like the incredible EDDIE KING DOUBLE FEATURE event that consists of DEAD FALL and ARSENAL on Thursday, November 29th at7pm and 9pm respectively. There's also the WALT DISNEY'S FANTASIA LIVE MOVIE RE-SCORE featuring the return of Firmament on November 28th at 9pm and again on Sunday, December 9th at 9pm. And for all you deadites, there's EVIL DEAD REVISION on Thursday, December 6th at 9pm. Franchise fan Jorge Torres-Torres took all three films, re-edited them to a scant 72-minute black and white video, filled with all the fun and gore that fans love! There's also the free event entitled AHITH IN CYBERIA VR that, "will gather an audience from around the world to a virtual screening room on the SANSAR platform for one day of short film screenings with live Q&A’s." Then on Saturday, December 8th at 7pm, the supernatural thriller REBORN will be screened and in attendance will be the film's star and legendary genre actress Barbara Crampton!

Original Festival Poster (2018)

The film festival is featuring a plethora of short film programs that will haunt your dreams and make you scream with joy, with 14 different short film blocks no less! There's the animated shorts block STRANGERS WITH EYE CANDY on Sunday, December 9th at 3pm, the LGBTQ+ themed DARK RAINBOW on Sunday, December 2nd at 3pm. There's the STRICTLY LOCAL SHORT FILMS 1 and 2 on Saturday, December 1st and Sunday, December 2nd at 11am for both blocks, spotlighting on local films and filmmakers.

Closing out the festival will be the US Premiere screening RONDO, a dark comedy thriller that's about, "a kinky sex proposition devolves into a chain of murder, sex, revenge. And more murder." Written and directed by Drew Barnhardt and staring G.C. Clark, Ketrick 'Jazz' Copeland, and Reggie De Morton, the film starts at 7pm on November 9th.

There's so much happening at the festival, it'll take another post to list them all!! So what are you waiting for?  Mark the festival's date on your calendar and come out to the city for some amazing works of art! Individual tickets are $20 online and at the door. All-inclusive festival passes will be priced at $150, which includes all the films and special events. For the full festival schedule, visit the Another Hole in the Head's official website at www.ahith.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show! 

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: Phil sees HAPPY DEATH DAY at the Cinelux Almaden Café & Lounge Theater - October 16, 2017

Hello and welcome to another installment of my horror movie marathon! Boy, I've been watching a lot of horror films this month!! One of them I saw this past Monday at the Cinelux Almaden Theater. The film has already garnered a lot of positive press and was the Number #1 film this past weekend!! It's hear that I saw HAPPY DEATH DAY, the newest film from Blumhouse Productions and Universal Pictures.

The film's official synopsis: Blumhouse (SPLIT, GET OUT, WHIPLASH) produces an original and inventive rewinding thriller in Happy Death Day, in which a college student (Jessica Rothe, LA LA LAND) relives the day of her murder with both its unexceptional details and terrifying end until she discovers her killer’s identity.

I recall seeing the trailer and thought that it looked interesting. Basically, it looked like GROUNDHOG DAY meets MEAN GIRLS meets FRIDAY THE 13th all rolled up into one movie. While as generic that may sound, the film itself was a blast to watch!

First, hats off to screenwriter Scott Lobdell for coming up with a fun and clever script that had cool characters, great villain and inspiring kills! Lobdell is best known as a comic book writer, having penned several Marvel titles like Fantastic Four, Alpha Flight, Uncanny X-Men and Generation X, which he created with artist Chris Bachalo. legend has it that Lobdell wrote the film's script over ten years ago and Michael Bay was to produce it and star Megan Fox under its original title HALF TO DEATH. Then on October 11, 2016, Blumhouse Productions were going to make the film with Christopher Landon directing the project.  Landon is no stranger to the horror genre, having helming films like PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES and SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE and was the writer for DISTURBIA, VIRAL, SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE and PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 2-4 and the THE MARKED ONES. Landon does an exceptional job of crafting a solid film with that perfect balance of laughs, scares and mystery. A terrific job from these two individuals who know how to keep our interests!

Our heroine Tree Gelbman is portrayed by the very talented Jessica Rothe. Tree isn't your typical sorority rich bitch. There's a reason she's a self-absorbed, snotty and downright rude; she's been through a lot and throughout the movie she evolves and changes, but still has that cunning and at the end, she becomes that bad ass final girl horror fans have grown to love. Her companion on this never-ending day trip is Carter Davis, played by Israel Broussard. Both have great on-screen chemistry and it was great to see their characters interact with one another, especially Tree remembering everything and Carter always is the same person but not in the same sense as the previous day.

HAPPY DEATH DAY is a clever and entertaining slasher horror thriller that will keep you guessing all the way to the final scenes!! Don't give this movie a pass! Go to your local theater, grab some popcorn, snacks and drinks, and then sit back and have a good time!! 4 1/2 out 5 stars!! Highly recommended!! 

HAPPY DEATH DAY is currently playing in theaters nationwide, including at the Cinelux Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view showtimes, visit their website at www.cineluxtheatres.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: Phil sees BETTER WATCH OUT at the Osio Theater - October 7, 2016

Welcome back to another installment of my Halloween Horror Watch marathon! Today's film adventure took me back to the lovely coastal town of Monterey! There at the Osio Theater in downtown Monterey, they were showing two films that I was really excited to see (more on the second film later on). The first film I saw was the holiday horror film BETTER WATCH OUT, which was a wonderful way to start my cinematic day!

The film's official synopsis: This holiday season, you may be home, but you’re not alone... In this fresh and gleefully twisted spin on home-invasion horror, babysitter Ashley (Olivia DeJonge) must defend her young charges Luke (Levi Miller) and his best friend Garrett (Ed Oxenbould ) when intruders break into the house one snowy night – or so she thinks.

The cast is absolutely outstanding in their respective roles. Olivia DeJonge is just reveting as our main protagonist Ashley. Tough, vulnerable and fierce, she could very well become this generation's new final girl! Levi Miller's Luke characters is the personification of all us young boys who had crushes on their babysitters. I mean, who hasn't had that one babysitter who we used to dream about? Ed Oxenbould plays Luke's stoner best friend Garrett. Fun fact: both DeJonge and Oxenbould played siblings in M. Night Shyamalan's 2015 thriller THE VISIT. Overall, all three of them have excellent on-screen chemistry, which elevated the film for me. Really enjoyed their performances in the movie!

Filmmaker Chris Peckover directed the film and co-wrote the screenplay with Zack Kahn. Together, these two gentlemen made one of the smartest films ever! The set-up is straight forward, however, by the end of the first act, the film did a complete 180 degrees and the movie became something completely different. I can't remember the last time I was impressed with a movie, where I figured out the plot, only to have it surprise the hell out of me! Peckover's directing is sharp, percise and moves the film at an even pace. Really great filmmaking from this awesome filmmaker!
 
Originally titled as Safe Neighborhood, the film a big splash when it was the Fantastic Fest in 2016. It went on to garner acclaim at other festivals before being picked up for distribution by Well Go USA Entertainment.

BETTER WATCH OUT is my new favorite holiday horror film of all time!! This is one of the most original, entertaining and sick horror movie I've seen in a long time!! You owe it to yourself to go see this festive fright flick on the big screen!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

BETTER WATCH OUT is currently playing in limited release in theaters nationwide, including at the Osio Theater in Monterey. To view showtimes, visit their website at osiotheater.com. To view the film's website for future screenings, visit www.wellgousa.com/theatrical/better-watch-out.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR (2016) from 20th Century Fox - October 31, 2016

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR Blu-Ray

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR
Starring Sarah Wayne Callies, Jeremy Sisto, Sofia Rosinsky, Logan Creran, Suchitra Pillai, Javier Botet
Written by Johannes Robert, Ernest Riera
Cinematography by Maxime Alexandre
Edited by Baxter
Produced by Rory Aitken, Alexandre Aja, Ben Pugh
Directed by Johannes Roberts
Released by 20th Century Fox

My Halloween Horror Watch marathon continues with another fantastic film that was very entertaining and horrifyingly chilling. I've heard good things about this movie and it took me awhile to finally get around to watching it. Filmed in India, THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR explores the different beliefs and evils that exist in other parts of the world.

The film's official synopsis: A family lives an idyllic existence abroad until a tragic accident takes the life of their young son. The inconsolable mother learns of an ancient ritual that will bring him back to say a final goodbye. She travels to an ancient temple, where a door serves as a mysterious portal between two worlds. But when she disobeys a sacred warning to never open that door, she upsets the balance between life and death.

Sarah Wayne Callies is just an amazing and wonderful actress. Here, her character Maria is so lost without her son that she will do anything to get him back. Her depression and desperation gets the better of and now she must come to grips that her son is gone and she must move on or her family will die. To display all these different ranges of emotions requires talent and Callies nails her performance perfectly. I was such a huge fan of hers since The Walking Dead and now she can be seen on the new USA sci-fi show Colony so this makes me very happy.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2016)

Also turning in a great performance is Suchitra Pillai, who portrays Maria's nanny Piki. Wise, caring and devoted to Maria's family, she tells her of the ancient ritual but warns her of the consequences if she breaks the rules. Pillai is quite famous in her native home of India. She is an actress, singer, model, anchor and VJ. She started acting back in 1993 and has appeared in several Bollywood movies like DIL CHAHTA HAI (2001),  FASHION (2008) and FITOOR (2016). Actor Jeremy Sisto (who plays Maria's husband  Michael in the film)has had a long career in Hollywood, appearing in CLUELESS, SUICIDE KINGS, THIS SPACE BETWEEN US, ANGEL EYES, MAY, WRONG TURN, THIRTEEN, WAITRESS and ROBOT & FRANK.

The film was directed by English filmmaker Johannes Roberts. He made his feature film debut with the 2001 SANITARIUM. He made several movies in England such as ALICE (2002), HELLBREEDER and DARK HUNTERS (both in 2004). His first film made here in the states was the 2011 feature ROADKILL for the Maneater Series and was shown on the SyFy Channel. Here, Roberts exhibits his growth as a competent director, creating fear, scares and dread as well drama and character development. He captures all the beauty and horror of India and showcases their beliefs, their folklore and their rituals.

The movie was released on March 4, 2016 in limited release in select theaters. It grossed $2.8 million domestically and $4.5 million internationally. However, critical response has been less than warm. Despite these negative reviews, I thoroughly enjoyed the film and was captivated by its story, characters and directing.

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR is a brilliant, entertaining and horrifying movie that will haunt your Halloween season! If you want to see something different in your horror film, then make sure you add this title to your library! 3 1/2 out of 5 stars! Recommended viewing!!

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD. The movie is also available on iTunes, Video On Demand, digital download and Netflix.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil attends a special screening of STREETS OF VENGEANCE at the Shire Community Space in Modesto - October 22, 2016

If you've been following my blog for all these years then you know that I'm a huge supporter of local independent filmmaking. A&P Productions is an independent film production company based out in Modesto, California. Founded by power couple Paul Ragsdale and Angelica De Alba, they make their films the old fashioned way; meaning they write, shoot, edit, produce and direct all themselves which is wonderfully inspiring. They're latest film caught my attention a couple of months ago and I knew that I had to review it. Lucky for me, they were having a special screening of the film at The Shire Community Space in Modesto. Taking inspiration from films like SAVAGE STREETS, ANGEL and ALLEY CATS with the late night format of USA's Up All Night, STREETS OF VENGEANCE is a perfect blend of 80's homage and local DIY filmmaking!

The film's official synopsis: Former adult film star Mila (Delawna McKinney) is attacked by a misogynistic cult known as The Sword. She turns vigilante and puts a group of bad-ass girls together and seeks revenge.

Since the release of GRINDHOUSE back in 2007, there have a plethora of retro styled horror and exploitation films that have been amazing. These releases include HOUSE OF THE DEVIL (2009), HOBO WITH A SHOTGUN (2011), THE SLEEPER (2011), THE FINAL GIRLS (2015), WE ARE STILL HERE (2015) and the movies from Canada's Astron 6: FATHER'S DAY (2011), MANBORG (2011) and THE EDITOR (2014). Here, director Ragsdale continues this trend but adds some new ingredients into the mix. While it feels and sounds like your classic 1980's revenge action movie, it looks like a like a modern day film. There's modern day cars, cellphones, computers and other forms of technology that reminds viewers that the film takes place in today's world of San Francisco. But, by having the grittiness of those films that inspire it and the totally awesome 80's synth soundtrack courtesy of Vestron Vulture, it takes you back to those crazy fun-filled days of Reganomics era America.

Ragsdale's directing is fantastic; providing that perfect balance between action and drama. His set-ups and compositions are incredible, creating some very iconic scenes that would make excellent lobby cards (hint hint Paul). He is able to tell a very compelling story (which he wrote as well) with complex and often hilarious characters and grotesque villains while offering the audience some cool action and gory death scenes. Credit also goes to cinematographer Dan Zampa who does an outstanding job of capturing it all. His visuals are sharp, clean and his lighting is very reminiscent of those found in Dario Argento's films like SUSPIRIA, DEEP RED and PHENOMENON. Truly a very talented cameraman and photographer.

As for the cast, I have nothing but absolute praise for them! Standouts for me include lead actress Delawna McKinney as our protagonist Mila, who shines bright as our heroine. She brings naïveté, vulnerability as well as strength, determination and guts! Paige Jenkins as Amber is sweet, kind and a loyal friend to Mila (she also did the special effects for the insanely sickening "Penis Scene" which was absolutely freaking impressive). Cassidy Irwin's Liv had the best one-liners in the film! She was hysterical and badass as well and I loved it when she appeared on-screen. Brian, played by Anthony lava To'omata proves that the average joe can become a hero and get to kiss the girl. Awesome job by this great actor.

Now you can't have a good movie without some bad guys and this film has the luxury of having not one, but two evil antagonists. While I won't mention their names due to revealing spoilers, but my hat goes off to both of them for their performances. These two are the most diabolical, disgusting, and deplorable human beings to ever appear in a movie. Seriously, these guys are just plain evil and I loved hating them while I was watching the movie. Like I said, I can't mention them due to ruining the plot revelations, but again, tremendous job fellas.

Another interesting fact is that the movie also features cameos from some of today's most popular adult film stars. So look for Alexis Amore and Sophie Dee in one scene together. Also having a small part in the film is Joann Angel, founder of Burning Angel Studio. Angel plays Nina, who is the catalyst for one of our antagonist going batshit crazy. The other actress to appear in the movie is the adult film icon Ginger Lynn Allen as Roxy Carmichael. I loved Ginger in her role and I am very happy and excited to see her being used properly and to see her acting in a film! I'm sorry but Rob Zombie's use of her in both THE DEVIL'S REJECTS and his latest project 31 is appalling. She is a legend, she is a gifted actress, and she is talented! She's completely wasted in those films. Here, she gets to show off her range as an actress and have real dialogue. I applaud Ragsdale for giving her the opportunity to display her acting capability. A great performance by this living legend!

I mentioned earlier that Ragsdale wrote the film's screenplay, which has a strong feminist message within the dialogue. Women have the right to do what they want with their bodies and shouldn't be slammed with vulgar displays of discrimination. Body shaming, name calling and misogyny are not tolerated. I am a big supporter of women's rights and if they wish to work in the sex industry or make adult films or whatever, then that's their right. Despite its over-the-top violence, gore and bloodshed, the movie acts as a reminder for all women to be and feel empowered and ignore society's so-called and outdated "standards" on what and how a woman should be and act like. It's their lives and their choices people, so if you don't like it, well, tough shit. Get over it!

After the screening, they had DVDs of the movie for sale as well as three different type posters. Of course, I went TOTAL fanboy and bought it all. I then had the cast and crew autograph everything plus made some new friends as well. This was my first real movie event that I've attended in a long time and overall, I had a total blast at the screening!

STREETS OF VENGEANCE is my favorite underground independent film of 2016!! It's only a matter of time before the film takes over the world! Till then, I'm gonna watch my DVD copy over and over again! Also, keep your eyes peeled here because in the very near future, I will be conducting interviews with several members of the cast and crew! If you see this film playing in a town near you, I would strongly suggest you see this movie!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Very highly recommended!!

STREETS OF VENGEANCE will be soon be screening at film festivals throughout the country. In the meantime, you can follow the movie on Facebook and checkout it's IMDb page and look for A&P Productions on Instagram.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: THE BOY (2016) from STX Entertainment - Oct. 11, 2016

THE BOY Blu-Ray

THE BOY
Starring Lauren Cohan, Rupert Evans, James Russell, Jim Norton, Diana Hardcastle, Ben Robson, Jett Klyne, Stephanie Lemelin
Screenplay by Stacey Menear
Cinematography by Daniel Pearl
Edited by Brian Berdan
Produced by Matt Berenson, Jodyne Herron, Gary Lucchesi, Tom Rosenberg, Jim Wedaa
Directed by William Brent Bell
Released by STX Entertainment

Welcome back my faithful followers to another installment of my horror movie marathon! Tonight I have another fright-tastic flick that will surely make you quiver with fear! Or at least entertain you for about 90 minutes. So let me tell you all about THE BOY from STX Entertainment.

The film's official synopsis: Greta (Lauren Cohan) is a young American woman who takes a job as a nanny in a remote English village, only to discover that the family's 8-year-old is a life-sized doll that the parents care for just like a real boy, as a way to cope with the death of their actual son 20 years prior. After violating a list of strict rules, a series of disturbing and inexplicable events bring Greta's worst nightmare to life, leading her to believe that the doll is actually alive.

Now here is horror film that truly delivers the goods! First, you have a smart and scary script courtesy of screenwriter Stacey Menear. It's rare to see a film that contains a unique and original script like this coming out of Hollywood. The story is a perfect blend of horror, thrills and mystery. Plus, we have these interesting and realistic characters that we actually care about. What's that you say? A horror film with characters that we are emotionally invested in? Yes, the end is nigh my friends! Also worth noting, it has one of the best twist endings I have ever seen in a horror movie! Not since THE SIXTH SENSE have I been caught off guard like this! Brilliant ending!

Original Theatrical Poster (2016)

Actress Lauren Cohan's performance as Greta is fantastic, but then again, I wouldn't expect anything less from the woman who plays Maggie Green from my favorite television show The Walking Dead. She's naïve in the beginning of the movie; thinking that this family with the life-sized doll are completely nuts. But then, she starts to believe in the possibility that this doll is alive as recent events persuades her to change her mind. The final act we see her become the heroine as she must not only fight to save her life but of her new love interest Malcolm, portrayed by Rupert Evans.

For a time filmmaker William Brent Bell was on my shitlist, reason being was because he directed the damn awful THE DEVIL INSIDE back in 2012. Now if you've been following my blog, you will remember that I was so pissed that film sucked so bad. In fact, I wrote that it was, "2012's worst horror film to be released" and to, "let this movie rot in Hell for all eternity." Yup, I hated it that damn much! Now, I love the man! The directing style was flawless; each set-up, every camera angle, every composition told the story of this young nanny being tormented by this little doll. Superb work by Bell people!! He has redeemed himself!

The film was released to theaters on January 22 of this year and went on to gross over $35.7 million here in the states and another $26.6 million in the international market. Overall, its worldwide box office take was $62.4 million. Not too bad considering the budget was only about $10 million but it received mixed reviews from movie goers and film critics. It opened up against THE 5th WAVE and DIRTY GRANDPA in the same weekend.

THE BOY is one fantastic film to watch this Halloween!! It's psychological, it's thrilling, it's scary and most important, it's fun and entertaining to watch!! So bust out the popcorn and drinks, sit back and relax and enjoy watching this movie! 4 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE BOY is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD. The movie is also available on iTunes, Video On Demand, digital download and Netflix.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: JESSABELLE (2014) from Lionsgate - October 4, 2016

JESSABELLE Blu-ray

JESSABELLE
Starring Sarah Snook, Mark Webber, Joelle Carter David Andrews, Ana de la Reguera, Chris Ellis, Brian Halliday, Amber Stevens West
Written by Robert Ben Garant
Cinematography by Michael Fimognari
Edited by Kevin Greutert
Produced by Jason Blum
Directed by Kevin Greutert
Released by Lionsgate

Welcome back my fellow horror hounds! Right now I would like to take you the bayous of Louisiana, where tonight's film takes place. Filled with voodoo magic, ghosts and hidden family secrets, JESSABELLE is one of those films that will surprise you with it's interesting story and complex characters.

The film's official synopsis: Returning to her childhood home in Louisiana to recuperate from a horrific car accident, Jessabelle (Sarah Snook) comes face to face with a long-tormented spirit that has been seeking her return and has no intention of letting her escape.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2014)

Actress Sarah Snook shines as our lead heroine. Vulnerable and naive the first half of the film, brave and fearless near the end. All roads on her journey towards both self-discovery and self-aware are steps in her character development. Snook really does an excellent job of conveying all of these elements and more. Jessabelle is a young woman who is trying to heal after surviving a horrible car accident. Once home, her life becomes even more complicated as she sooon unravels her true destiny but she once again fights for her life. I thoroughly enjoyed Sarah Snook's performance in the film and I am looking forward to seeing where her career takes her.

Kevin Greutert is no stranger to the horror genre, having directed SAW VI, SAW 3D: THE FINAL CHAPTER and VISIONS. However, he's best known as an editor and he not only edited this film but several others like SAW 1-6, THE COLLECTION, JOURNEY TO THE END OF NIGHT, ROOM 6 and THE STRANGERS. Greutert brings his eye for detail to the film, leaning towards more atmospheric chills as well as some nice jump scares. Credit also goes to screenwriter Robert Ben Garant for crafting a supernatural scary and intriguing script that contains a very satisfying twist ending.

The film was originally scheduled for release on January 10, 2014, but was pushed back till August that same year. It received a very limited theatrical release before being available on home video. Which to me it makes me very sad because there are some really interesting and original films being made in the independent film world. While there's the IFC Channel and Sundance Channel as well as the SyFy Network, it's not the same as going to an actual theater and watching a movie with those in your community.

Overall, JESSABELLE is a supernaturally spooky slice of cinema that you should really checkout this Halloween season! If you're looking for a movie with thrills and chills with a Louisiana voodoo twist, this will be right up your alley! 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended viewing!

JESSABELLE is currently available on both Blu-Ray and DVD. The movie is also available on iTunes, Video On Demand, Netflix and digital download.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: BACKCOUNTRY (2014) from IFC Midnight - October 3, 2016

BACKCOUNTRY Blu-ray

BACKCOUNTRY
Starring Missy Peregrym, Nicholas Campbell, Eric Balfour, Jeff Roop
Written by Adam MacDonald
Cinematography by Christian Bielz
Edited by Dev Singh
Produced by Brandon Baker, Michael Baker, Jeff Roop
Directed by Adam MacDonald
Released by IFC Films

Hello again boils and ghouls and welcome to Day Four of my Halloween Horror Watch marathon! Today we are going on a little hiking trip out in the woods for some rest and relaxation, to witness nature in all her beauty and bliss. Just as long as you don't accidentally run into a crazed man-eating bear!! Oh snap, there's one now! Hang on folks as we travel to the BACKCOUNTRY.

The film's official synopsis: Alex (Jeff Roop) is a seasoned camper, but Jenn (Missy Peregrym) is not. When they realize that they have entered bear territory, there terror gets turned up to a whole new level.

The film was based on the true story of story of couple Mark Jordan and Jacqueline Perry who were attacked by a bear back when they were camping up in Canada in 2005. The movie captures the authenticity of their horrific experience. Both Peregrym and Roop have great on-screen chemistry that propels the movie forward. We care about this couple and when things take a turn for the worse, we sympathize for them as well as with them. But make no mistake, Perry is the star of the movie and she proves it time and time again throughout the movie. Seriously, she is one tough actress as she pitted not only against her antagonist the black bear, but against nature as well.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The movie also marks the film debut of director Adam MacDonald, who cut his teeth at making a couple of short films. Making a film in the woods is not an easy job to pull off, especially if it's your first film. You have to worry about the elements, animals, insects, etc. MacDonald dismisses all of this by making such an intense thriller that plays on the old concept of man versus nature. But what makes him a really great director is that we was an actor prior to writing and directing, having appeared in SATAN'S SCHOOL FOR GIRLS, CONFESSIONS OF A TEENAGE DRAMA QUEEN, JEKYLL + HYDE and WOLVES plus television series like Vampire High, Beach Girls, Wild Roses and Being Erica. Because he can relate to his cast, he is able to obtain some fantastic acting, especially from the formentioned Peregrym. His directing leans towards more of the documentary style, very in your face, shaky camera and unflinching.

The movie had its premiere at the world famous Toronto International Film Festival in September 2014 to critical acclaim. It went to be screened at other festivals such as the Telluride Film Festival, Stiges International Fantastic Film Festival and the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Eventually, Event Film Distribution bought a share of ownership of the film, which they then sold the US distribution rights to IFC Midnight. The movie was finally released on home video in March of 2015.

BACKCOUNTRY is one of the best nature horror films to have been released in the past 20 years! It's a very suspenseful and horrifically realistic slice of cinema that make you shiver with fear! So if you go down to the woods today, remember that you're not going to find any teddy bear picnic! 4 out of 5 stars!! Recommended viewing!!

BACKCOUNTRY is currently available on DVD at your local retailer. It's also available on Amazon Video, iTunes, Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: THE SHALLOWS (2016) from Sony Pictures - October 1, 2016

THE SHALLOWS Blu-Ray

THE SHALLOWS
Starring: Blake Lively, Óscar Jaenada, Bret Cullen, Angelo Josue Lorano, Sedona Legge, Janelle Bailey, Pablo Calva
Written by Anthony Jaswinski
Cinematography by Flavio Martinez Labiano
Edited by Joel Negron
Produced by Jaume Collet-Serra, Lynn Harris, Matti Leshem, Douglas C. Merrifield
Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra
Released by Sony Pictures

Hello again everybody and welcome back to my annual Phil's Halloween Horror Watch, where I'll be watching nothing but horror movies for the entire month of October! This year, I thought it would be interesting to focus on films that were released within the last couple of years. As some of you know, I'm a huge advocate and supporter for independent films, especially within the horror genre. But every now and then, Hollywood releases a film that really captures my attention. So for tonight's inaugural entry, let me present to you THE SHALLOWS, which was released to theaters this past June 24th.

The film's official synopsis: When Nancy (Blake Lively) is surfing on a secluded beach, she finds herself on the feeding ground of a great white shark. Though she is stranded only 200 yards away from shore, survival proves to be the ultimate test of wills, requiring all of Nancy's ingenuity, resourcefulness and fortitude.

Ever since the release of Steven Spielberg's 1975 classic JAWS, there have been a plethora of shark films (JAWS 2-3, SHARK NIGHT 3D, SHARK ISLAND) well as knockoffs (ORCA, PIRANHA) but this movie caught me by surprise. Not only was it entertaining, but it had character development, a good story, great acting as well as great directing.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2016)

Credit goes to the lovey Lively, who carries the entire film on her shoulders and pulls it off amazingly! Her acting is fantastic and because of this, we the audience become emotionally invested in her character. We like her from the very beginning and we want her to survive. We want her to live. We want her to defeat her aquatic adversary; the great white shark who ruined her special trip to the secluded beach that her mom visited long before she passed. Lively brings strengths, determination and depth to her character Nancy and I applaud her incredible performance!

I would also like to acknowledge the acting skills of Sully Seagull, who portrayed Nancy's companion Steven Seagall. Get it? I thought it was pretty damn funny!! But the again I have a weird sense of humor. Moving on now...

It's difficult to set a story or film on only one location, but do it right and people will forget that detail. Screenwriter Joel Negron crafted one helluva script that has a great story arc, perfect beats and plenty of tension and thrills. Combine this with filmmaker Jaume Collet-Serra's directing and it's a win-win situation. Using both real world location, CGI and studio sets, Serra does the impossible by making the movie lean, mean and frightening cool! And it all takes place at one location! Impressive indeed people!

THE SHALLOWS is one of the best horror films of 2016!! This sleeper of a gem will surely make you afraid of the water all over again! So for make sure you watch this film this Halloween!! Just as long as you don't live on a boathouse or something. 4 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE SHALLOWS 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 screaming!

Phil sees JASON BOURNE from Universal Pictures - August 9, 2016

The BOURNE series was initiated back in 2002 with the release of THE BOURNE IDENTITY starring Matt Dameon. The film became a huge success and it spawned two sequels: THE BOURNE SUPREMACY (2004) and THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM (2007). After the last one it looked like the series had come to its conclusion. Then, the series was revived in 2012 with THE BOURNE LEGACY starring Jeremy Renner as Aaron Cross, which expanded the Bourne universe. For a time it looked like Renner was taking over the franchise, but then in November of 2014 it was announces that a new film was in the works and that Damon was once again returning as well as director Paul Greengrass. All of this brings me to my review of the newest installment to the series simply entitled JASON BOURNE, based on the Robert Ludlum universe of novels.

Theatrical Movie Poster

The film's official synopsis: Jason Bourne, long absconding after his exposure of CIA's Operation Blackbriar, is traced by the CIA to be living in Greece. Officers & vested interests in the CIA try to get hold of him for contrasting reasons before he gets the truth he seeks - of which he only has a clue from his father on how he was betrayed in operation Treadstone. Their paths cross in an International Technology event in Las Vegas. Does he get to settle scores with the betrayers?

The film picked up after the events of THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM, examining where Jason is and the secrets that he is trying to uncover regarding his father as well as his past. Damon once again shines as out lead protagonist. The man doesn't miss a beat as he's kicking ass and taking names during the film. Damon reminds us all that he was born to play this role. But the film has two other actors that I'd like to address. 

The first is Julia Stiles, who reprises her role as Nicky Parsons, the woman who convinces Bourne to come out of hiding. Stiles is another talented individual that is really underappreciated and underused. She is a fantastic actress, having appearing in major Hollywood films like 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU, HAMLET, DOWN TO YOU, MONA LISA SMILE, SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK and the original BOURNE TRILOGY. Stiles is one of the best, most beautiful and talented actress out there and I think that it's a crime that she isn't appearing more major Hollywood films by some of today's biggest directors.

The other actor is Tommy Lee Jones. Now here is a living legend and one of my favorite actors of all time. In the film he plays the antagonist CIA Director Robert Dewey, who will stop at nothing to see that Bourne is finally eliminated. Jones has been in countless films, but I always envisioned him making those old classic Hollywood war films and John Ford westerns. He's got this grit, this "snarely, no-nonsense, kick ass attitude and ride off into the sunset on a horse" attitude. If he were back then, we would've seen him in films with John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, Kirk Douglas, Elizabeth Taylor and such. One of the greatest actors of modern day cinema!

As mentioned earlier, Paul Greengrass steps behind the camera to direct this latest installment to the franchise. He directed the THE BORNE SUPREMACY as well as THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM. Both he and Damon teamed up on another film titled GREEN ZONE in 2010. But Damon always said that he'd make another BOURNE film if Greengrass would direct. Which leads us to where we are today. He keeps the action tight and at a fast pace, revealing the clues that Bourne must piece together soon before CIA Director Dewey finds him. 

JASON BOURNE is another worthy entry to this already classic film franchise. However, I'd very much like to see Borne meet and team up with Cross in a future installment! Let's make this happen Greengrass!! But in the meantime, this excellent action espionage film is definitely worth your time and attention! 4 out of 5 stars!! Recommended viewing!!

JASON BOURNE is currently playing in theaters nationwide, including the Century Greenback 16 Theaters in Sacramento. Check your local listing to see if it is playing at a theater near you.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show! 

Phil sees THE CONJURING 2 from New Line Cinema/Warner Bros. Pictures - July 12, 2016

When I first saw THE CONJURING back in 2013, I said it was "The best horror film of the year." I just recently rewatched the film and it still made my skin crawl, even in the comfort of my home. That right there is the power of film and it proves that filmmaker James Wan is the master of supernatural horror. Fast forward to this past weekend and the sequel THE CONJURING 2 is finally released to theaters and yours truly went to his local cinema and sat near the front so as to absorb all the horror that was projected onto the silver screen.

Theatrical Movie Poster

The film's official synopsis: In 1977, paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren (Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga respectively) travel to London, England, where single mother Peggy Hodgson (Frances O'Connor) believes that something evil is in her home. When Peggy's youngest daughter Janet (Madison Wolfe) starts showing signs of demonic possession, Ed and Lorraine attempt to help the besieged girl, only to find themselves targeted by the malicious spirits.

James Wan has accomplished a rare and difficult feat: he made a sequel that is better than the original. That is very hard to do, especially in this day and age. Films like THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, THE GODFATHER PART II and TERMINATOR 2: JUDGEMENT DAY are all perfect examples of when the sequel far surpasses the original in every way. So congratulations to Mr. Wan for this outstanding g and rare accomplishment.

Wan takes what made the first film so terrifying and cranks up to twelve. He's attention to detail is without question. From the fantastic 1970's inspired intro credits to the set-ups for his jump scares to the simple framing with disturbing sounds and music to build up the tension within a scene, Wan is, in my humble opinion, one of the best horror directors of the past twenty years and ranks among those legendary, iconic filmmakers like George Romero, John Carpenter, Tobe Hoper, Wes Craven and Dario Argento.

The film offers both familiarities and new additions for fans. Both Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return once again as Ed and Lorraine Warren, once again displaying their fanatic on-screen chemistry. However this time they are sent over to London to investigate a haunted house that has been terrorizing the Hodgson family. More specifically, this poltergeist is interested in the youngest daughter Janet and will stop at nothing till she is its new host. A huge round of applause to child actress Madison Wolfe, who puts in one the best performances ever in a horror film. Not since young Linda Blair in THE EXORCIST has a child been this horrifyingly disturbing. 

Originally, there were early reports indicating that the film was going to focus on the Amityville Investigation, which was the case that made the Warrens a household name was well as the inspiration for the 1979 horror film classic THE AMITYVILLE HORROR. The film is actually about the the equally scary Enfield Poultergeist which plagued the Hodgson's Brimsdown home in Enfield, England in the late 70's. During the film's end credits, the actual pictures of the family as well as pictures of the haunting are shown, which look absolutely authentic to this viewer.

THE CONJURING 2 is the best horror film of 2016 and the best horror sequel of the last 30 years!! If you want be scared out of your mind that you'll be sleeping with the lights on for the next two weeks, the you need to see this film!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Very highly recommend!!

THE CONJURING 2 is currently playing in theaters nationwide, including the Century Greenback 16 in Sacramento. Check your local listing to see if it is playing at a theater near you.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil attends an exclusive advanced screening of THE NEON DEMON from Amazon Studios - June 20, 2016

Hello again everybody and welcome to a very special edition of Phil's Film Adventures! While I was going through my Facebook feed I saw a very interesting post from the Sacramento Horror Film Festival. They were giving away free passes to an advanced screening of director Nicolas Winding Refn's new film THE NEON DEMON, which wont be in theaters until Friday, June 24th. Now I was very excited because I haven't done one of these types of screenings in over two years. So right after work, I headed down to the United Artists Arden Fair 6 Mall to check out this cinematic special occasion!

Theatrical Movie Poster

The film's official synopsis: When aspiring model Jesse moves to Los Angeles, her youth and vitality are devoured by a group of beauty-obsessed women who will use any means necessary to get what she has in The Neon Demon, the new horror thriller from Nicolas Winding Refn. The Neon Demon stars Elle Fanning (Maleficent, Super 8), Jena Malone (Inherent Vice, The Hunger Games series), Bella Heathcote (Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Dark Shadows), Abbey Lee (Gods of Egypt, Max Max: Fury Road), Karl Glusman (Love, Stonewall), Keanu Reeves (John Wick, The Matrix series), Christina Hendricks (“Mad Men,” Drive), Desmond Harrington (“Dexter,” The Dark Knight Rises), Alessandro Nivola (A Most Violent Year, American Hustle), and Charles Baker (“Breaking Bad,” Wild).

Actress Elle Fanning gives one of her best performances ever! She commands your attention when she's on the screen. Her portrayal as Jesse is nothing short of riveting. We witness her character turn from a kind, sweet and naive young girl to a self-absorbed, arrogant and prissy supermodel. It's a slow turn that is utterly amazing to witness. It is an extraordinary performance! Jena Malone is also captivating, if not shocking, as Jesse's good friend and make-up artists Ruby. She goes the extra mile in the film and let me just say there's this amazing "Holy Shit!" moment that was freaking crazy! Then there's Bella Heathcote and Abbey Lee, who portray Gigi and Sarah respectively. These superficial, super shallow and superplastic supermodels are the antagonists to our fair Jesse, who will stop at nothing to make sure she doesn't steal their spotlight and fame. Also, look for Keanu Reeves appearing in a very minor role as the jackass motel manager Hank, who spreads his time smoking cigarettes and breaking into the rooms.

Nicolas Winding Refn's directing is perfection at its finest! His compositions and camera panning are simple buy yet very effective. His eye captures the beautiful and the ugliness of not only our characters but also of the Los Angeles fashion world as well. Refn's framing is superb, documenting the rise and fall of Jesse with such captivating fluently. But what I really loved was the gorgeous neon lighting throughout the film. The last time I watched a film with this much colorful lighting was Dario Argento's 1977 horror classic SUSPIRIA. Now I would also like to address his partner-in-crime, which would be cinematographer Natasha Braier, without whom Refn's wouldn't have been able to bring his film to the screen. Exquisitely photographed by this very talented individual! Also, Refn co-wrote the film with two other talented writers: Mary Laws and Polly Stenham. The sparse dialogue enhances his unique vision but the story is so fascinating that we can't help but get swept into the lovely chaos of our characters.

Another aspect I loved about the film was the incredibly radical soundtrack! Music composer Cliff Martinez created a soundtrack that is an amalgam of 80's new wave synthesizer and traditional slasher music from like FRIDAY THE 13th. It's catchy, hypnotic and retro all at the same time. It's reminds of music that I would hear on the New Retro Wave website. It's new yet familiar at the same time, which is very difficult to pull off. I can't wait to buy the soundtrack and I hope it comes out on a totally awesome looking colored vinyl!

There are some who will say that this is not a horror film while some say it is an art house movie. Then there are those who will call it a thriller. Some might dare say it sucked and would want their money back. This is an experimental film; one that lies somewhere between an exquisite dreamlike state and a nightmarish plane of reality.

 THE NEON DEMON is my favorite film of the year thus far!! Words cannot describe how much I loved this movie!! It truly is a work of art and it must be seen on the big screen! So if you are bored of the typical Hollywood schlockbuster and the tired remakes/reboots/rehashes, then you must see this movie! 5 out of 5 stars!! Very highly recommended!!

THE NEON DEMON is currently playing in theaters nationwide, including at the United Artists Arden Fair 6 Mall. Check your local listings and theater to see if it's playing near you!

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Horror Watch: PAY THE GHOST (2015) from RLJ Entertainment-March 24, 2016

PAY THE GHOST

Starring: Nicolas Cage, Sarah Wayne Callies, Veronica Ferres, Lyriq Bent, Jack Fulton, Lauren Beatty, Kalie Hunter, Stephen McHattie

Written by Dan Kay

Cinematography by Sharone Meir

Produced by Nicolas Chartier, Craig J. Flores, Ian Levy, Patrick Newall

Directed by Uli Edel

Released by RLJ Entertainment

Have you noticed that actor Nicolas Cage has been in a lot of movies lately? Seriously, there's been a shitload of movies starring the man. Since 2010, he has appeared in a total of 18 movies!! Holy crap that's a lot of movies! But let's be realistic about this for a moment. A majority of those either sucked ass or went straight to video. Now the film I'll be reviewing today falls in the later category. However, I must admit that I rather enjoyed PAY THE GHOST, which also stars actress Sarah Wayne Callies from AMC's The Walking Dead and USA Network's new hit sci-fi series Colony. 

The film's official synopsis: One year after Mike Lawford's (Cage) young son (Jack Fulton) disappeared during a Halloween carnival, he is haunted by eerie images and terrifying messages he can't explain. Together with his estranged wife Kristen (Callies), he will stop at nothing to unravel the mystery and find their son-and, in doing so, he unearths a legend that refuses to remain buried in the past.

Limited Theatrical Poster (2015)

This is one of Cage's better straight-to-video movies. What I liked about it was that it was a pretty creepy supernatural thriller that also plays on every parents' worse nightmare: your child goes missing. Nothing is more horrifying than not knowing what has happened to your children. Here, Cage becomes completely obsessed with finding his son and doesn't let one day go by without him putting flyers and visiting his local police district office. But because his son disappeared while under his supervision, his wife blames him and now their marriage is crumbling down, to the point that they live apart. Cage's performance is always a little over-the-top, but here he's much more in control and is more authentic. We the audience feel his loss, his frustration with the local authorities, his depression and, of course,  his fear when he begins to discover that there might something more sinister that's involved. Of course, Callies' acting is fantastic as always. You just believe her performance and she nails the emotional roller coaster her character Kristen goes through during the film. She's is simply an amazing actress.

German born director Uli Edel has made cult classic films like LAST EXIT TO BROOKLYN, BODY OF EVIDENCE and THE BAADER MEINHON COMPLEX. He's also made several made-for-television movies like Confessions of a Sorority Girl, Tyson, Rasputin and EVIL NEVER DIES. He's also directed episodes for Oz, Tales from the Crypt, Homicide: Life on the Street, and the mini series Houdini for the History Channel. Here, Edel dies a fine job of creating tension and chills and being able to keep the movie going forward at a decent pace with solid set-ups, close ups and 

After the movie was made back in 2014, it was finally picked up for distribution by RLJ Entertainment and gave the film a very small limited theatrical release in the fall of 2015. It was also released simultaneously on video on demand.

Overall PAY THE GHOST is a decent supernatural albeit predictable thrillet. But it does hold your interest with its decent story, solid acting and above average scares. If you're a hardcore Nicholas Cahe fan, then this will be right up your alley. 3 out of 5 stars! Worth the rental!

PAY THE GHOST is currently available on DVD at your local retailer. It's also available at selected Redbox kiosks and on Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil sees CRIMSON PEAK from Universal Pictures-February 20, 2016

Director Guillermo del Toro has made some of the most interesting, original and frightening films ever made. From his breakthrough debut of CRONOS to films like HELLBOY, PAN'S LABYRINTH and PACIFIC RIM, del Toro has crafted works of art that contains both surrealistic imagery and social commentary. His latest film CRIMSON PEAK is equal parts horrifying disturbing and atheistically pleasing visually.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: When her heart is stolen by a seductive stranger named Thomas Sharpe (Tom Hiddleston), Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska) is swept away to a house atop a mountain of blood-red clay: a place filled with secrets that will haunt her forever. Between desire and darkness, between mystery and madness, lies the truth behind Crimson Peak.

Words cannot describe just how amazing and gorgeous this movie is. With its sweeping visuals, impressive sets, outstanding performers and terrifying script, the movie harkens back to the old Hammer Films of the past. And like those gothic classics, this film captures the look and sounds of the early 1900s perfectly: the impressive exterior sets, the dramatic costumes, the eirry English castle, everything is done to perfection. You don't see to many movies being made with this much attention to detail. Again, del Toro's directing is fantastic!

Along with co-writer Matthew Robbins, del Toro's script is utterly horrifyingly romantic and weaves together themes of love, murder, life and death. It's sheer brilliance is such a welcomed change of pace from your typical Hollywood cookie cutter films and the tired reboot/remake/sequel trend. The story itself is gripping; showing us a time and place that we immediately are drawn to. We the audience  are transported into another world and we become so invested in not only the story, but the characters that inhabit this world.

The three main leads are phenomenal, each bringing something interesting to the table. Our protagonist Edith is wonderfully brought to life by Mia Wasikowska and she brings a wide variety of emotions. Edith is intelligent, a gifted writer, bold and has no problem with speaking mind, and yet at the same time she's naive, stubborn and vulnerable. A great performance by this talented actress. Tom Hiddleston breaks out of his Marvel alter ego Loki and shows us he has a lot more to offer to his fans. He adds a sense of intrigue, mystery and distrust to his character Thomas but there's a level of confusion. He knows what he has to do but he becomes town between his love for Edith and his loyalty to his sister Lucille, played amazingly twisted by Jessica Chastain. Lucille is both insanely breathtaking and gorgeously twisted which is very hard to pull off but Miss Chastain does this effortlessly. This actress was born to play this character!

CRIMSON PEAK is one of the most hauntingly beautiful romantic horror films I've seen in decades! Easily one of the most strikingly and original films as well! So do yourself a favor and see this astounding work of art!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Very highly recommended!!

CRIMSON PEAK is now available on Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. It's also available on Redbox and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!