Phil’s Horror Watch: ZOMBIE (1979) from Blue Underground - February 7, 2019

ZOMBIE Limited Edition "Bridge" Slipcover Blu-Ray

ZOMBIE (aka ZOMBI 2) (1979)
Starring Tisa Farrow, Ian McCulloch, Richard Johnson, Al Cliver, Auretta Gay, Stefania D'Amario, Olga Karlatos
Written by Elisa Briganti, Dardano Sacchetti (uncredited)
Cinematography by Sergio Salvati
Edited by Vincenzo Tomassi
Produced by Fabrizio De Angelis, Ugo Tucci, Gianfranco Couyoumdjian
Directed by Lucio Fulci
Originally released by The Jerry Gross Organization (USA), Variety Film (Italy)
Released by Blue Unnderground

For today's installment of Phil's Horror Watch, I visited the land of Italy, home to some of the most intense, gruesome, gory, and celebrated horror films of all time! What made me want to visit this far and away land? I have two words for you: Lucio Fulcio! You see, late last year Blue Underground re-released one of his greatest films of all time, in a brand new, 3-Disc, 4K restoration! And, it came with not one, not two, but three different lenticular slipcovers! Granted, the film itself is enough to make any horror hound happy! If you don't believe me, then you have never seen the film ZOMBIE, especially in high definition!!

The film's official synopsis: In Italy, it was considered the ‘unofficial sequel’ to DAWN OF THE DEAD. In England, it was known as ZOMBIE FLESH EATERS and banned as obscene. In America, it was called ZOMBIE and advertised with the depraved tag line “WE ARE GOING TO EAT YOU!” Tisa Farrow (THE GRIM REAPER), Ian McCulloch (CONTAMINATION), Al Cliver (CANNIBALS), and Richard Johnson (THE HAUNTING) star in this worldwide splatter sensation directed by ‘Maestro Of Gore’ Lucio Fulci (CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD, THE HOUSE BY THE CEMETERY) that remains one of the most eye-skewering, skin-ripping, gore-gushingly graphic horror hits of all time!

Original Theatrical Poster (1980)

Sounds like a very intriguing film indeed, but the backstory of the film is even more fascinating. In 1977, American filmmaker George Romero teamed up with Italian filmmaker Dario Argento, who would help with the financing to make DAWN OF THE DEAD. In exchange Argento would distribute the film in Europe, where it was retitled as ZOMBI. Director Fulci decided to capitalize on the film's success by making his own gore-infested, living dead film. Thanks to a legal loophole, Fulci was able to slap a sequel number to his film, allowing moviegoers to think that his film was an actual follow up to Romero's film. Unbelievably true, but in the end Fulci's ZOMBI 2 did phenomenal at the European boxoffice. When the film was imported to America, it was retitled ZOMBIE, as to not confuse American audiences.

The film itself is highly regarded as Fulci's best film ever, and a welcomed entry to the annals of horror. The special effects by F/X wizard Gianetto de Rossi are very impressive, and they still hold up to this very day. When Auretta Gay has her throat torn out is just gore-tastic. The scene when Olga Karlatos' eye is shoved into a large piece wood splinter is just so gruesome and painful to watch that I dare you to not look away. And of course, the film's most famous scene is when a zombie attacks and eats a shark. Yes my friends, that is a REAL person fighting a REAL shark! There is no CGI in this film people! Real sharks, real special effects, and real gore drenched the screen as it has never before. The Italians very much celebrated gore and violence, and in the process, made it into an art form that has influenced several big name horror directors. From Sam Raimi and Sean Cunningham to Eli Roth and James Wan, the Italian horror films from the late 70's to the mid 80's had a huge impact here in America. The film was released in Italy on August 25, 1979. It was imported and released to theaters here in America on July 18, 1980.

The movie has been released for the home video market in several different formats over the years by several distributors. In the 1980's and early 1990's, it was distributed by video companies like Wizard Video, Magnum Entertainment, and T-Z Video here in the states, while in the UK, it was part of the "Video Nasties" and was banned their for a time. By the late 90's, companies like Anchor Bay Entertainment, Shriek Show, and Blu Underground had released the film on DVD and Blu-Ray. In 2011, Blue Underground had restored Lucio's classic in a 2K restoration, and released it back to select theaters across the country (this lucky guy saw it at the Roxie Theater in San Francisco in October of that same year). Then in 2018, while being very quite for most of the year, they announced that they were once again restoring the film, this time in a new 4K scan in time for its 40th anniversary!!

Original Italian Theatrical Poster (1979)

This new Blu-ray release Blue Underground looks absolutely fucking amazing!! Holy shit! I have never seen the movie look this sharp, clear, fucking gorgeous before!! Their brand-new 4K Restoration from the uncensored original camera negative looks insanely flawless!! This limited collector’s edition includes 1080p Feature on Blu-ray, bonus High Def Extras Blu-ray, Soundtrack CD, collectible booklet, reversible sleeve with original US poster artwork, a collectable booklet with a new essay by Author Stephen Thrower, and three different special 3D lenticular slipcovers (for its First Pressing only)!!

Blue Underground also loaded this 3-Disc set with a ungodly amount of amazing special features! So what I'm doing is just copying what is on all three discs, just to make it easier on myself as to not leave anything off. On Disc One there's a new Audio Commentary #1 with Troy Howarth, Author of "Splintered Visions: Lucio Fulci and His Films", a second audio commentary with Star Ian McCulloch and Diabolik Magazine Editor Jason J. Slater, When The Earth Spits Out The Dead - Interview with Stephen Thrower, Author of "Beyond Terror: The Films of Lucio Fulci", theatrical trailers, TV and radio spots, poster & still gallery, and a cool intro by Guillermo del Toro. Disc Two has all the special features: Zombie Wasteland - Interviews with Stars Ian McCulloch, Richard Johnson & Al Cliver, and Actor/Stuntman Ottaviano Dell'Acqua, Flesh Eaters on Film - Interview with Co-Producer Fabrizio De Angelis, Deadtime Stories - Interviews with Co-Writers Elisa Briganti and (Uncredited) Dardano Sacchetti, World of the Dead - Interviews with Cinematographer Sergio Salvati and Production & Costume Designer Walter Patriarca, Zombi Italiano - Interviews with Special Make-Up Effects Artists Gianetto De Rossi & Maurizio Trani and Special Effects Artist Gino De Rossi, Notes on a Headstone - Interview with Composer Fabio Frizzi, All in the Family - Interview with Antonella Fulci, Zombie Lover - Award-Winning Filmmaker Guillermo del Toro talks about one of his favorite films . Disc Three is the aforementioned CD soundtrack by the great Fabio Frizzi!

ZOMBIE is one of the all-time greatest zombie films ever made!! For it's shock value and sheer madness, no other zombie film can compare to nor come close to it! With this film, director Fulci was given the mantle "The Maestro of Gore." It is without hesitation to say that, after its initial release 40 years later, it is a title that no one has come close to achieving. Years after his passing, he continues to live on in his films, which are not only his legacy, but a gift to us to enjoy over and over again! And thanks to Blue Underground, we can have this new 4K restoration to watch over and over again! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly Recommended!! 

ZOMBIE is available in a 3-Dics Limited Edition with three different lenticular slipcovers (or purchase all as a bundle for a limited time) from Blue Underground. To order your copy, visit their website at www.blue-underground.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming! 

Phil's Halloween Horror Watch: BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD (2017) from Scream Team Releasing - October 13, 2018

BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD Blu-Ray

BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD
Starring Tiffany Arnold, Eric Boso, Daniel Alan Kiely, Laura E. Mock, Dan Nye, Cat Taylor, Sarah Starr
Screenplay by Max Groah, Tim Mayo
Cinematography by Justin Russell
Edited by Max Groah
Produced by Tiffany Arnold, Max Groah, Tim Mayo, Chris R. Mayo, Cynthia Mayo, Vincent J. Restivo
Directed by Max Groah
Released by Scream Team Releasing

Welcome folks to Day 13 of my Halloween Horror Watch! As you may have noticed, I am a big fan and supporter of the indie horror film community. There is so much activity happening now, and with technology readily available, friends and strangers are coming together to create new visions and new voices for the genre we love to death. And speaking about death, today's film comes courtesy of Scream Team Releasing and is a horror comedy that will make you feel high on life! And high of zombies too! So grab your special stash, pour your favorite bowl of cereal, and plunker down on your couch as I take you all on a stoner's nightmare come true with BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD!

The film's official synopsis: Hot off the film festival circuit and FINALLY available to enjoy from the comfort of your own couch, comes the multiple award winning stoner/zombie masterpiece from Backward Slate Productions...BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD!!! Its the story of five friends who share both a love of pot and a lifelong dream to see the zombie apocalypse become reality. But when the undead actually rise to gruesomely (and hilariously) eat the living, the group discovers it's not all corpse killing montages and mall raids ... and that their relationships will be pushed to the limit if they're going to survive.

The film is funny as hell but it also hits you in the feels, especially with its emotionally charged ending! Seriously, WTF  Max Groah! Dude, that ending was so damn emotional! I was having a blast with the film, and then that third act to a turn for the worse, meaning it got dark real fast! I was on the edge of my seat! I did not see that ending coming! Holy crap! You got me Max!! You got me good!! sniffle...what? No, I'm not crying.....sniffle sniffle......hang on a sec.......OK I'm back. I'm good, I'm good. So where was I? Oh yeah, my review of the film.

Original Festival Poster (2017)

The movie's five main leads are incredibly talented and they make it so much fun to watch! Tiffany Arnold, Eric Boso, Daniel Alan Kiely, Laura E. Mock, Dan Nye all deserve praise for their performances, especially Kiely as Hal. His scene at the end..man.....uh oh....the feels man, the feels...hang on a sec folks...sniffle.......OK I'm back. So yeah, way to go Daniel Alan Kiely! Good work man!!

The film played at several film festivals and won numerous awards. Some of the festivals it played at include Nevermore Film Festival, Nightmares Film Festival, Twisted Dreams Film Festival, Midwest Horror, Sci-Fi & Grindhouse Film Festival, and Days of the Dead Film Festival to name a few. Then filmmaker Justin M. Seaman (writer/director of the 2016 horror film THE BARN) approached them to have it released on his distribution label Scream Team Releasing and fans of the movie are so glad he did.

Scream Team Releasing has a Blu-Ray/DVD Combo that you can choose to have unsigned or signed by the cast and crew, plus it comes with a limited edition slipcover and a signed rolled poster! So obviously, I got the autographed edition. Both discs have a plethora of special features: Audio Commentary by Backward Slate Productions, 420 Friendly Commentary, Behind the Scenes & Bloopers, Deleted Scene, Smoke Pistola Grande Informercial, Stacey Seagull Big Workout, VHS Music Video, Zombie Killer, Swords and Bitches 3, Behind the Scenes, and Trailers.

BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD is a fan festival favorite, stoner cult classic of the year!! It's got Romero references, weed, flesh-eating zombies, weed, blood and gore, awesome special effects, weed, stoner jokes, nudity, weed and.....did I mention weed? So definitely check out this bad boy this Halloween season! And don't forget to bring your favorite baseball bat weed bat! Just in case you need to crush some zombie heads between tokes! 4 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

BONG OF THE LIVING DEAD is available on a special collector's edition Blu-Ray/DVD Combo, both signed and unsigned by the cast and crew from Scream Team Releasing. To purchase a copy for yourself, please visit their website at screamteamreleasing.com.

Thanks for watching, and enjoy the horror!

Phil's Horror Watch: NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (1968) from The Criterion Collection - February 27, 2018

Today's horror film needs no introduction. It is regarded as one the most important films in not just the horror genre, but within cinema history. I have lost track of how many times I have seen this movie, and it just keeps getting better and better thought the decades. And now, the fine folks over at the Criterion Collection has just released the definitive version of the movie. Now, let us bask in the moonlight of George A. Romero's iconic 1968 horror movie masterpiece NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD.

Original Theatrical Poster (1968)

The film's official synopsis: Shot outside Pittsburgh on a shoestring budget, by a band of filmmakers determined to make their mark, NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, directed by horror master George A. Romero, is a great story of independent cinema: a midnight hit turned box-office smash that became one of the most influential films of all time. A deceptively simple tale of a group of strangers trapped in a farmhouse who find themselves fending off a horde of recently dead, flesh-eating ghouls, Romero’s claustrophobic vision of a late-1960s America literally tearing itself apart rewrote the rules of the horror genre, combined gruesome gore with acute social commentary, and quietly broke ground by casting a black actor (Duane Jones) in its lead role. Stark, haunting, and more relevant than ever, NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD is back.

There isn't anything I can say that hasn't been said before. There isn't anything I can write that hasn't already been written before. This is the definition of DIY independent filmmaking at its finest. It truly doesn't get more perfect than this!

The Criterion Collection has once again outdone themselves with this release. Listed below are the special features that are on this jammed packed 2-Disc Blu-Ray Set:

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD Blu-Ray.

New 4K digital restoration, supervised by director George A. Romero, co-screenwriter John A. Russo, sound engineer Gary R. Streiner, and producer Russell W. Streiner, New restoration of the monaural soundtrack, supervised by Romero and Gary Streiner and presented uncompressed, NIGHT OF ANUBIS, a never-before-presented work-print edit of the film, New program featuring filmmakers Frank Darabont, Guillermo del Toro, and Robert Rodriguez, Never-before-seen 16 mm dailies reel, New program featuring Russo on the commercial and industrial-film production company where key NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD filmmakers got their start, Two audio commentaries from 1994 featuring Romero, Russo, producer Karl Hardman, actor Judith O'Dea, and others, Archival interviews with Romero and actors Duane Jones and Judith Ridley, New programs about the film's style and score, New interview program about the direction of ghouls, featuring members of the cast and crew, New interviews with Gary Streiner and Russell Streiner, Newsreels from 1967, Trailer, radio spots, and TV spots, PLUS: An essay by critic Stuart Klawans.

Back in October 2017, Mill Creek Entertainment released a sub par, poorly transferred, bare bones Blu-Ray of the film. This caused no end of rage among fans of the not only the film, but its beloved director. So do yourself a favor and ignore that piece of crap. THIS is the version of the film you want in your film library!

While it is amazing to see the film in a brand new, crisp and clear 4K digital restoration, part of me felt guilty because Romero never got the chance so see it. Granted, he helped supervised with the transfer, but George Romero passed away from lung cancer in Toronto, Canada on July 16, 2017. He was only 77 years old. His passing left a vast void in the cinema world that will never, ever be filled.

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD is one of the greatest, timeless, and trailblazing film ever made! Romero created an entire sub-genre within the horror world, and will forever be known as the Godfather of the Zombie genre. From movies like SHAUN OF THE DEAD and 28 DAYS LATER to television shows like The Walking Dead and Z Nation, Romero's influence stretches far and wide, across generations and time itself. This was his gift to us, and for that, I thank you George A. Romero!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer as well as on iTunes. The film is also available on the Criterion Collection website. To purchase a copy for yourself, visit www.criterion.com.

Thanks for reading, and long live George A. Romero!

Phil sees SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE from Paramount Pictures - April 10, 2016

Zombie movies have been a stable within the horror genre since 1968 when director George A. Romero released his iconic zombie classic NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD. Since then there has been a plethora of zombie films, made here in the states and abroad. But with the release of 1986's RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD, the late great director Dan O'Bannon added a new ingredient to the zombie film: comedy. In last several years we've had the zombie horror/comedy reach dizzying heights with films like SHAUN OF THE DEAD, ZOMBIELAND, WARM BODIES, DEAD SNOW and most recently ZOMBEVERS and POULTRYGEIST: NIGHT OF THE CHICKEN DEAD. Now the people at Paramount Pictures have unleashed another zombie comedy (or zom com or zomedy as it's affectionately called) to moviegoers everywhere. So what you will but SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE is one funny, gore soaked film!

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Three scouts and lifelong friends (Tye Sheridan, Logan Miller, Joey Morgan) join forces with one badass cocktail (Sarah Dumont) waitress to become the world's most unlikely team of heroes. When their peaceful town is ravaged by a zombie invasion, they'll fight for the badge of a lifetime and put their scouting skills to the test to save mankind from the undead.

I loved this a lot! It contains all the requirements of a zombie film and horror movie: people getting eaten alive, gore, bloodshed, scares, thrills, nudity, foul language and zombies. As for the comedy, it's freaking hilarious! Awwww.....to be a teenager during the zombie apocalypse has never been more fun!

Screenwriters Carrie Lee Wilson, Emi Mochizuki and Christopher Landon (the film's director) wrote a very funny, very bloody and very entertaining script that kept the formula of what fans expect from a zombie comedy. Landon is mostly known as a screenwriter, whose past writing credits include DISTURBIA and PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 2-4 and PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES. This is the third film he has directed, the last being PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES which I didn't like. However I am very happy and enthusiastic that he rebounded from that film with this one. His set-ups are great, the pacing is perfect and he captures all the humor and gore beautifully.

The cast is another contributing factor for my love of the movie. Tye Sheridan is a really good actor and is awesome as our lead hero Ben Goudy. I first saw him in the movie THE TREE OF LIFE. Then I saw him appear in the drama DARK PLACES, which I thought he was fantastic in. Logan Miller's character Carter Grant is a friend we all had growing up: funny, foul mouthed, perverted and just fun to hang out with. Actor Joey Morgan's Augie Foster is the one kid that refuses to grow up. He loves being a boy scout and that's all he cares about. Little bit of loser but this kid kicks major zombie ass! The sexy Sarah Dumont becomes the boy's mentor and parental figure. Smart, hot and she knows how to kill zombies with a shotgun! How could you not fall in love with her?!?

SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE is a funny as hell, blood dripped zombie horror comedy that will leave you in pieces (pun intended)! Seriously, it really is that funny and that entertaining! The absurdity of it makes it that much more fun to watch! So sharpen your knives, bust out the shotgun, grab your bat and have fun watching this film! 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended viewing!

SCOUTS GUIDE TO THE ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE 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's Horror Watch: DEATHGASM (2015) from Dark Sky Films-February 5, 2016

DEATHGASM Blu-Ray (2015)

DEATHGASM
Starring: Milo Cawthorne, Kimberley Crossman, James Blake, Daniel Cresswell, Sam Berkley, Delaney Tabron, Stephen Ure

Written by Jason Lei Howden

Cinematography by Simon Raby

Edited by Jeff Hurrell & Gareth Van Niekerk

Produced by Sarah Howden, Andrew Beattie & Morgan Leigh Stewart

Directed by Jason Lei Howden

Production companies: MPI Media Group & New Zealand Film Commission

Distributed by Dark Sky Films

The problem I face these days is trying to get caught up with all the movies I've been wanting to see, especially my beloved horror films. Today's movie has been showing up on several "Best of 2015" lists from several websites and publications like Fangoria, Rue Morge and Dread Central. So I finally got around to seeing the ultra crazy, ultra gory, ultra metal and ultra hilarious New Zealand film DEATHGASM from our friends at Dark Sky Films.

The film's official synopsis: After his mother is institutionalized, misfit Brodie (Milo Cawthorne) is sent to live with his fundamentalist Christian uncle and aunt, whose son torments him. A heavy metal fan, Brodie forms a band called Deathgasm with his friends Zakk (James Blake), Dion (Sam Berkley), and Giles (Daniel Cresswell). When the bandmates break into a local house, they discover that one of their idols, reclusive musician Rikki Daggers (Stephen Ure) lives there. Daggers gives the band magical sheet music, which a cult later murders him to find. Skeptical of the sheet music's power, the band plays it, only to summon a demon. With the help of his crush, Medina (Kimberley Crossman), and his bandmates, Brodie must find a way to defeat the demon.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

After watching the film, I can see why this bad boy was on every horror best of list. Seriously, this was such an ingenious, absurd, funny and bloody movie to watch. You can tell that this was a labor of love and director Jason Lei Howden (making his feature length debut) should feel pretty damn proud. Combining the common ingredients of horror, humor and heavy metal music, Howden was able to make something totally different and unique. His influences were there, taking inspiration from Peter Jackson's DEAD ALIVE, Sam Raimi's EVIL DEAD and Edgar Wright's SHAWN OF THE DEAD. His playful attitude towards directing, his visual look of the film, the smart and funny script that he wrote himself and all the awesome blood and guts he showcases for fans. But what really sold me was the characters that inhabited this wild and crazy world where the film takes place. Unlike Hollywood's typical fake, two-dimensional interpretation, Howden's characters look and sound like real teenagers, thanks in large part to the spectacular cast.

Our lead Milo Cawthorne who portrays Brodie is just like the guy you went to school with: different, loner, has teenage hang-ups, looking for something to do, hates his family, despises his teachers, loathes his school, loves the pretty popular girl, basically he could've been you back in high school. Cawthorne does a fantastic job of conveying all this plus being a cool and sensitive heavy metal hero. His love interest is popular girl Medina, portrayed the gorgeous Kimberley Crossman. Funny, sweet and who is very handy with an ax, Kimberley brings a lot of fun, depth and blood-drenched beauty to her role. And let's not forget the bad ass heavy metal bad boy Zakk as played by James Blake. He is Brodie's best friend and worse enemy. Blake excels in his role and is the asshole best friend we've all had at one point in our youth.

Wal-Mart DVD Cover (2015)

With its theme of horror and heavy metal, you know that it was going to have a killer soundtrack, but I had no idea how freaking awesome it turned out to be! Boasting songs from bands like Bulletbelt, Axeslasher, Nunslaughter, Elm Street, Midnight and Beastwars, the film will make you bang your head while raising your fist high up in the air and give the heavy metal salute! Freaking awesome soundtrack people!!

The film was released by Dark Sky Films here in the states and was met with accolades, acclaim and rave reviews from critics and fans. However, it was met with resistance from the evil soul-sucking, poverty wage paying, corporate entity called Wal-Mart. According to an article published on the Bloody Disgusting website, "Yet another case of horror movies getting a bum rap as it's been announced the the Wal-Mart DVD edition of DEATHGASM will be changing titles to HEAVY METAL APOCALYPSE and that the artwork has been changed, removing the pentagram but allowing a gun. After all, Satan is evil and cannot be promoted in any way, shape, or form, but guns are fine." The sheer stupidity and hypocrisy of this blatant form of censorship makes me angry. Basically, Wal-Mart is just swapping an imaginary evil for an all too real evil that's been plaguing society and taking away lives on a daily basis for decades. Now it's understandable why this has to be done. With Wal-mart being one of the largest retail chains out there, having your movie there will get exposure and sales at the register. I just think their logic is just stupid as hell. But then again, I fucking hate Wal-Mart and all that they stand for.

DEATHGASM is a heavy metal horror comedy masterpiece that will make you shout at the devil and laugh at the face of Death! It is the most outrageous gore soaked comedy horror film that I have seen in a long time! Fans of the genre need to see this movie! So go out and buy this movie right now! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

DEATHGASM is currently available on Blu-Ray and DVD. Visit your local retailer or order directly from Dark Sky Films. You can follow the film on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about Dark Sky Films visit their website at darkskyfilms.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
 
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Horror Watch: DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER (2015) from Sony Pictures-December 1, 2015

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER DVD (2015)

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER

Starring: Jesse Metcalfe, Meghan Ory, Virginia Madsen, Keegan Connor Tracy, Aleks Paunovic, Dennis Haysbert, Carrie Genzel, Rob Riggle, Julia Benson, Peter Benson, Harley Morenstein

Written by Tim Carter

Cinematography by Mahlon Todd Williams
Edited by Mike Jackson
Produced by Tim Carter & Tomas Harlan

Directed by Zach Lipovsky
Production Company: Legendary Digital Media, Contradiction Films, Dead Rising Productions

Distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment

The majority of movies based on popular video games have been, shall we say, disposable train wrecks that almost ruin the game it's based on (remember MARIO BROTHERS and STREET FIGHTER). When the RESIDENT EVIL films came out, it seemed like the new trend in Hollywood was the game adaptations. Soon others followed like the HALO direct-to-video films and the atrocious HOUSE OF THE DEAD series plus those FINAL FANTASIES movies that people didn't like. Now there's a new game adaptation on the block making its debut and, to my surprise, is really awesome and very entertaining. So let's dive right into my review of DEAD RISING:WATCHTOWER.

The film's official synopsis: Set between the events of Dead Rising 2 and Dead Rising 3, The story follows online reporter Chase Carter (Jesse Metcalfe) and his camerawoman Jordan (Keegan Connor Tracy) as they cover the stories of the people inside of the walled-in quarantined area in Oregon, as the government (running an organization called FEZA—Federal Emergency Zombie Authority) attempts to contain a viral outbreak that turns people into ravenous zombies. An anti-viral drug called Zombrex, that keeps the virus at bay, is being administered to those infected. When it becomes clear that the drug is no longer effective and a zombie outbreak purges the town and infects its inhabitants, Chase, Jordan, grieving mother Maggie (Virginia Madsen), and survivor Crystal (Meghan Ory) battle their way out of the city before it gets firebombed. But Crystal has a dark secret, and the army has a hidden agenda.

Promotional Movie Poster (2015)

Unlike most films based on video games, this one is jammed packed with awesome action, cool characters, fun story, great directing, and very scary looking zombies. What I liked was that the film stated very faithful to the game, which is a rarity these days. Plus I liked that it fits into the game's continuity, which fans of the franchise will get a big kick out of. It's a long movie, which I found very satisfying because most films are really rushed and the filmmakers try to cram so much into their film. For some reason, filmmakers feel as if they need to tell it all in just 90 minutes. Where is that written in stone? Take the time to make a good movie and don't worry about the film's length. If the film's entertaining, the audience will go with you.

Director Zach Lipovsky does a great job of constructing some excellent set-ups, pans and clean narratives that keep the story moving forward. He builds tensions and scares with precise execution while giving the characters breathing room so we can get to know them better. And the action scenes with the zombies is spot-on; it looks like it was ripped from the video game. Every scene serves a purpose and it looks spectacular, especially the amazing bus scene where Chase is being chased by zombies in and around a school bus. That was an excellent scene!! That blew my mind away!! Great directing on the part of Mr. Lipovsky!!

The cast as a whole deserves nods from the horror community as well as from the game world. Jesse Metcalfe's Chase is the asshole you love to hate, but then cheer for at the end.
Meghan Ory pours on the mystery, the sexy, and the ass kicking as her character Chrystal is freaking awesome! And you can't help feel the sorrow of Virginia Madsen's character Maggie. No matter what role she plays, Madsen is one of the most underated actresses in Hollywood. Believe it or not I had the pleasure of meeting her at the Monsterpalooza convention back in 2013. She was such a sweet person that I found myself falling for her. Kind, considerate and very appreciative of her fans. She shows respect to her fans and that's why she is loved withing the horror community. One of the nicest women I have ever met! 

This was the first digital film developed by Legendary Digital Media, a division of Legendary Pictures. The movie premiered on Crackle, an online distributor of movies and television shows. Since then it's been released on DVD by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. It was announced recently that the sequel will premiere on Crackle in the spring of 2016.

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER is a worthy entry to the game's franchise as well as in horror fans' libraries. It's a bad-ass, zombie infested, blood stained, thrill-ride-of-a-flick that will definitely keep you entertained through the film's duration! So grab your self a bag a popcorn, some cold sodas and set back and watch this awesome movie! 4 out of 5 stars!! Recommended viewing!! 

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER is currently available on DVD by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Visit your local retailer and pick up your copy today. It can also be seen online on the Crackle website.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Horror Watch: EXTINCTION (2015) from Vertical Entertainment-Nov.2, 2015

EXTINCTION Blu-Ray (2015)

EXTINCTION
Starring: Matthew Fox, Jeffrey Donovan, Quinn McColgan, Valeria Vereau, Clara Lago
Screenwriter: Alberto Marini & Miguel Ángel Vivas
Cinematographer: Josu Inchaustegui
Director: Miguel Ángel Vivas
Production Company: La Ferme! Productions, Laokoon Filmgroup, Ombra Films, Telefonica Studios, Vaca Films
Distributor: Vertical Entertainment

When legendary director George Romero released his iconic horror masterpiece NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD back in 1968, he single handily created the zombie genre and the pop culture landscape hasn't been the same since. Fast forward to today, zombies are now everywhere: video games, toys, graphic novels, books, films, television shows, and zombie crawls in cities nationwide. There appears to be no end to the zombie craze that has taken over the country. While there has been a plethora of zombie movies released in the past 47 years, there are those special films that stand out from the pack by bringing something unique and different to the genre. Tonight's film EXTINCTION is one of those examples.

The film's official synopsis: Nine years after an infection turns most of the humanity into rabid creatures, Patrick, Jack and Lu, a nine-year-old girl, survive in seeming peace and calm in the forgotten snow-covered town of Harmony. We nonetheless sense that something terrible happened between Patrick and Jack because a deep hate keeps them apart. When the infected appear again, Patrick and Jack will have to leave behind all rancor to protect the one being who means more to them than anything else.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

Unlike most zombie films which focuses on death and decay of civilization, the film focuses on the humanity aspect, family dynamics and friends. How often do we see a zombie films that truthfully focuses more on the zombies and three kills rather than character development and thought provoking script about what happens when we lose our humanity and how do we get that back?

Both Matthew Fox are Jeffrey Donovan veteran actors who bring new life to the genre by taking their damaged characters and making them relatable to today's jaded horror audiences. Fox's Patrick is very likable and we gravitate to him and what exactly made him so scared and isolated. In contrast, Donovan's character Jack is much more grounded, especially since he has a daughter Lu (McColgan)  that he must protect and care for. While both these men are practically neighbors, Jack's hate for Patrick is. More harsh than the frozen winter world they now reside in. However, their friendship is once again put to the test as the must fight to survive and protect themselves and  Lu against the onslaught of the now evolved zombies. But as I stated, it's the human character examination that will appeal to audiences that are looking for something different than the same old zombie flick.

In my humble opinion, EXTINCTION is well worthy entry into the zombie genre! Even with its minor budget, the film accomplishes so much more than the bloated big-budgeted Hollywood films. Really worth your time to watch! 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended!

EXTINCTION is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD. It's also available on RedBox and VOD. Also check out their Facebook page as well.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the show! 

Phil's Horror Watch: Phil reviews MAGGIE (2015) from Lionsgate-August 8, 2015

MAGGIE Blu-Ray Cover (2015)

MAGGIE
Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Abigail Breslin, Joely Richardson, Douglas M. Griffin, Rachel Whitman Groves, Jodie Moore
Written by John Scott 3
Cinematography by Lukas Ettlin
Directed by Henry Hobson
Released by Lionsgate

Hello again horror hounds and welcome back to another installment of Phil's Horror Watch! While mainstream media is blasting Arnold Schwazenegger's newest film TERMINATER: GENISYS, one might have missed his smaller, intimate indie horror/drama the played in select theaters. A film that some horror fans may not even knew was released given to its stars. However, one must seek out Lionsgate's newest release MAGGIE to witness a zombie film unlike anything that's been made before.

The film's official synopsis: After a couple of weeks seeking out his teenage daughter Maggie (Abigail Breslin), Wade Vogel (Arnold Schwarzenegger) finds her in the quarantine wing of a hospital. Maggie has been infected by a lethal outbreak that transforms the victim into a zombie. Wade's friend Dr. Vern Kaplan (Jodie Moore) releases Maggie to spend her last days with Wade and her family. Her stepmother Caroline (Joely Richardson) asks Wade to take their little kids to her sister's house to keep them safe. While Maggie is slowly transformed, Wade stays with her protecting Maggie. But Dr. Vern warns him that the moment that he will have to take an ultimate decision is closer.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

This might be a film that Schwarzenegger fans may not like. This is not an action, adventure, shoot-em-up, big effects, big explosions type film. This is something very different from the norm, even for the zombie genre. Here is a film that is thoughtful, sensitive, emotional and makes you reflect on what's important in your life. Like I said, not your typical Schwarzenegger flick but that's a good thing for Schwarzenegger. We get to see him stretch out his acting capabilities and he's quite believable in his role as the world weary, loving husband and father Wade. I think this his best role he's ever played and it's very refreshing to see him in this 180 type role. When you think of dramatic roles, Arnold Schwarzenegger isn't the first name that pops into your mind. But after seeing him in this film, you might want to reconsider that stereotype you have of him.

Abigail Breslin once again turns in a powerful performance, in this her second outing in the zombie genre (the first one was the horror/comedy ZOMBIELAND). Her portrayal of teen infected girl turning zombie, Maggie is a very believable character and you feel for her outcome: you know she's infected right at the start of the film and you continue to root for her and tell her to fight the virus. You want her to overcome it and be a regular, normal teenage girl. But unfortunately that's not possible. A brilliant and compelling performance on the part of the young actress.

Now believe it or not, this is Henry Hobson's directorial debut and he just nails it from the first frame to the last. The film looks and feels like a beautiful nightmare that unfolds gracefully. Brilliantly photographed by cinematographer Lukas Ettlin, Hobson's vision of a father's loving devotion to his only daughter set against a world that is in a chaotic state of decay and death is lovingly captured for us film lovers to watch and discuss. And since this is technically a zombie film, there are some scares and some minor bloodshed to be found, but overall this is a zombie film that is more about life than death. A triumphant directorial debut on the part of Hobson!

Overall MAGGIE is hands down one of the most original zombie films I have ever seen! A new type of filmmaking has been achieved and for horror fans, this is a reason to celebrate. Everything is usually a remake, reboot, or a re-imagining. Here is an original film for a unique director who had a unique voice and was brave enough to make a personal, reflective, and creative work of art. Five out five stars!! Highly recommended!!

MAGGIE is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD and can be purchased at your local retailer or at the Amazon website at www.amazon.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil sees WARM BODIES at the Camera 12 Downtown San Jose-February 17,2013

So there were some chick flicks and romantic comedies that came out around Valentine's Day. Since I was so busy this past weekend, I didn't have time to see them all. I know, shocking huh? However I did see one film that caught my eye. So on Sunday I headed on down to the Camera 12 to see the romantic/teen/zombie/comedy film WARM BODIES.

Version "A" Poster.

Meet R (Nicholas Hoult). He's a zombie, but he's not your typical zombie. He's very introspective, trying to figure out who he is and whatnot. He sometimes hangs out with his only friend M (Rob Corddry). While out looking for food with his zombie pack, R meets Julie Grigio (Teresa Palmer) and a group of her friends in an abandoned building. After killing her boyfriend Perry (Dave Franco) and eating his brains, R rescues Julie and takes her back to his place (an airplane at the airport) to keep her safe. The two begin to form a bond, which makes R fell alive again, literally, and it soon affects the other zombies as well. But when they're being chased by a horde of living skeletal zombies (also known as Bonies), they must reach the barricade city in hopes that Julie's military father Gen. Grigio (John Malkovich) will aid them to defeat the army of Bonies and not kill R in the process.

Version "B" Poster.

Based on Isaac Marion's novel of the same name, the film was written and directed by Jonathan Levine, the man responsible for making the films ALL THE BOYS LOVE MANY LANE (2006), THE WACKNESS (2008), and 50/50 (2011). Levine changes the tone of the film from the book, giving it more light heartiness and more laughs. The film focuses on the romance between R and Julie, which creates some very funny and memorable laughs. When they're surrounded by zombies, he tell her to pretend she's one. When she does her imitation, complete with Romero-esque grunting and groaning, he whispers to her, "Too much." Another interesting aspect of the film is that a zombie is our protagonist, and we get to hear his inner thoughts. Who knew zombies could think? Again, Levine finds just the right balance of love, comedy, and bloodshed.

Version "C" Poster.

Actor Nicholas Hoult does a great job of playing a teen angst ridden zombie. Some of you out there might recognize him from such films as CLASH OF THE TITANS (2010), X-MEN: FIRST CLASS (2011) and he'll be staring in the upcoming film JACK THE GIANT SLAYER. Believe it or not, Hoult and other zombie actors practiced with circus performers to achieve the right body moves. Talk about taking their roles seriously! Teresa Palmer has appeared in numerous films like THE GRUDGE 2 (2006), DECEMBER BOYS (2007), BEDTIME STORIES (2008), THE SORCERER'S APPRENTICE (2010), and I AM NUMBER FOUR (2011). Both Palmer and Hoult have great on-screen chemistry, which makes the audience feel sympathetic to them and their cause. We are rooting for this 21st Century Romeo and Juliet to cross the finish line and live happily ever after.

Version "D" Poster.

For those of you who may not know this, but horror films have always carried some sort of social commentary that relates to the time to which they were filmed in. Don't believe me? Well then, let me drop some film knowledge on you. Vampire films such as DRACULA and NOSFERATU pray upon our anxieties about sex, disease and death. FRANKENSTEIN and THE GOLEM provokes unanswerable questions about the origins of man and the existence of God himself. DR. JEKEL & MR. HYDE and THE WOLFMAN deals with human nature's darker, more violent side. George Romero's LIVING DEAD films have provoked the issues of civil rights, comparing consumers to zombies, military paranoia, and so forth. HALLOWEEN emphasizes that the killer could very well be your next door neighbor. Need I say more? So in the case of WARM BODIES, you have several different messages within the frames.

Version "E" Poster.

First being is never judge a book by its cover. Or in this case, just because he's a zombie doesn't mean he's going to eat your brains. The second message is that we all strive to become a better person. Just because your labeled as this or that, it shouldn't define who you are and who you want to become. There's also the message of tolerance and accepting those who are different than you. Through this we have the capability to change and reshape our future. And the last, and most obvious, message is that love knows no boundaries. Whether your white, black, brown, gay, straight, bi-sexual or whatever you are, love is not prejudice. This topic has sparked a great many debates, especially regarding gay marriage. I for one believe in equality, and I support gay marriage. If two people have found that special someone and they want to spend the rest of their lives together, then let them! Tolerance and understanding can help bridge the gap of ignorance and bring people together.

So to wrap this up, WARM BODIES is this year's great date film! If you're looking for a clever, funny, witty, sweet and entertaining zombie-filled, romantic comedy, then you must see this film! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

WARM BODIES is currently playing in theaters nationwide, including at the Camera Cinemas here in the Bay Area. To view showtimes, visit their website at www.cameracinemas.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon, Day 12: Phil reviews MORE BRAINS! A RETURN TO THE LIVING DEAD (2011) DVD from Michael Perez Entertainment-October 12, 2012

MORE BRAINS! DVD Cover (2012)

MORE BRAINS: A RETURN TO THE LIVING DEAD
Starring: Thom Mathews, Beverly Randolph, Jewel Shepard, John Philbin, Brian Peck, Linnea Quigley, Miguel A. Nunez, Jr., James Karen, Clu Gulager, Don Calfa, Allan Trautman, Stacey Q.
Narrated by Brian Peck
Written by Christian Sellers, Gary Smart, Thommy Hutson (additional material)
Produced by Thommy Hutson
Executive produced by Beverly Randolph and Michael Perez
Directed by Bill Philputt
Released by Michael Perez Entertainment

Welcome to Day Twelve of Phil's Halloween Horrors Marathon! Today's review will focus on a documentary about one of the greatest zombie films of all time! But I'm getting a head of myself, so let me back track first. On August 15, 1985, Orion Pictures released RETURN TO THE LIVING DEAD, written and directed by Dan O'Bannon. With its blend of horror, humor, gore, and slapstick, the film became a cult classic that still to this day is loved and revered among horror fans and critics alike. Now 26 years after the film's release, director Bill Philputt and writers Gary Smart and Christian Sellers pay tribute to O'Bannon's film with their in-depth, informative, and highly entertaining film MORE BRAINS! A RETURN TO THE LIVING DEAD.

Narrated by Brian Peck (who portrayed Scuz in the original film), the film chronicles the step by step process of the making of this legendary cult classic. From the pre-production nightmare that consisted of the legal battle between John Russo and George Romero over the rights to the film's title, original director Tobe Hooper backing out of the project and O'Bannon taking over even though he never directed a film before. Some of the issues that arose during the production of the film were the firing of special effects artist Bill Munns, the spats between the cast and O'Bannon, and the grueling 14 hour night shoots over the next 6 weeks took it's toll on the entire cast and crew. After filming was completed, the executives declared it "one notch above pornography." The film was finally released a year after it was finished and grossed over $14 million during its theatrical run.

Philputt left no stone unturned when making this film. It also helped the writers Smart and Sellers wrote the book The Complete History of The Return of the Living Dead, to which the documentary is based on. Philputt was able to get 25 members of the original cast and crew to conduct on-camera interviews, including Clu Gulager (Burt), James Karen (Frank), Don Calfa (Ernie), Beverly Randolf (Tina), Thom Mathews (Freddy), Jewel Shepard (Casey), Linnea Quigley (Trash), and Peck too, just to name a few. With these individuals sharing some hilarious, interesting, personal stories and memories, Philputt crafted an amazing film and really pulled together some fascinating facts for fans about this cult classic.

The special features on this DVD are just outstanding! First there's THE WON'T STAY DEAD: A LOOK AT RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD PART II: a half hour documentary on the making of the sequel and includes interviews with Michael Kenworthy (Jesse), Suzanne Snyder (Brenda), and Karen, Mathews, and Speck just to name a few. LOVE BEYOND THE GRAVE: A LOOK AT THE RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD PART 3: another short documentary chronicling the making of Part 3, including interviews with director Brian Yuzna, screenwriter John Penney, special effects make-up artist Steve Johnson, and actor Trevor Edmond (Curt). Resurrected Settings: The Filming Locations Today: both Speck and  Randolf host this very cool short showing us the actual filming locations as they are today, Stacey Q Live! An Exclusive "Tonight" music video, documentary deleted scenes, THE RETURN OF THE LIVING DEAD told in 3 minutes, trailers for both MORE BRAINS! and NEVER SLEEP AGAIN: THE ELM STREET LEGACY, and A Conversation with Dan O'Bannon: The Final Interview: the last on-camera interview O'Bannon gave before his untimely passing from Crohn's Disease on December 17, 2009.

My conclusion is this: MORE BRAINS! A RETURN TO THE LIVING DEAD is a highly recommended documentary that belongs on every horror fans collection. In fact here's a real treat for all you creatures of the night: watch the original film and this documentary as a double feature! That would be the best way for you to honor the legacy of Dan O'Bannon! Go out and buy this DVD today! 5 out of 5 stars!

MORE BRAINS! A RETURN TO THE LIVING DEAD DVD can be purchased at your local retailer or you can purchase a copy on the film's website at www.getmorebrains.com

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!

Phil attends the 5th Annual A NIGHTMARE TO REMEMBER INTERNATIONAL HORROR FILM FESTIVAL hosted by Miss Misery at the Opera Plaza Cinema Theater-June 16, 2012

This past Saturday night I was very fortunate and extremely privileged to be invited to the 5th Annual A Nightmare To Remember International Horror Film Festival, held at the Opera Plaza Cinema Theater in San Francisco. The festival is organized and  hosted by the talented Reyna Young, better know to all of us here in the Bay Area as horror film hostess Miss Misery. She has appeared on local television shows, such as the late night horror show Creepy KOFY Movie Time on KOFY Channel 20-Cable 13 and at conventions all throughout Northern California. She started the festival back in 2008 to bring local, nationwide, and international independent horror short films here to the Bay Area.

The night began with horror fans meeting some famous celebrities in the theater's lobby. There was the great John Stanley who, along with his late predecessor Bob Wilkins, hosted the legendary local television show Creature Features. Scream Queen Debra Lamb, who has appeared in classic B-horror films such as EVIL SPIRITS, THE INVISIBLE MANIAC, BEVERLY HILLS VAMP, and the upcoming horror film DISCIPLES, was the celebrity judge for tonight's event. Also attending were two very special guests: actress Devanny Pinn (NUDE NUNS WITH BIG GUNS, SONG OF THE SHATTERED, and DIARY OF DEATH) and actor/writer/director Brandon Sleagle (VIViD, THE LOCALS, and THE MASK THAT THE MONSTERS WEAR). Also in attendance was independent filmmaker Dave Reda (BIT PARTS, MY UNDEADLY short film). After hanging out with both filmmakers and movie goers, Miss Misery begun tonight's horror festival.

The show began with some very cool trailers: AMERICAN MUMMY by writer/director Charles Pinion (which will be in 3D), BEAUTY BITES by filmmaker Shane Maus, and THE DEVIL'S CARNIVAL by director Darren Lynn Bousman and Terrance Zdunich, the creative team that brought us the cult hit REPO! THE GENETIC OPERA. After these cool trailers, the short films were shown!

First film up was BAPTISM BY FIRE. The film's about two injured soldiers Isaac (Charles Solis) and Oscar (Sam Salter) recovering in a military hospital. Issac is haunted by the casualties of war and what he has done.  Then one night Issac is visited by his former comrade Piggy (Raymond Garland), who was left behind by Issac and his platoon to die. But Piggy survived and now wants revenge Isaac. The film was directed by Craig Surko and it contains some interesting ideas, such as the psychological ramifications of those who fought in wars and the guilt that they carry with them long after the shooting stops. Creepy and atmospheric, this was a great film to start the festival off with. To learn more about the film, visit its official website at http://surkoc1.wix.com/baptismbyfire.

Festival Movie Poster (2011)

The second film screened was DOLL PARTS, a visually haunting and disturbing film by director Karen Lam. The film follows a serial killer named Edward (David Lewis) who while driving on a lonely stretch of road picks up a female hitchhiker (Sarah Lind). He ties her up, kills her and rapes her dead body. However there's just one problem: she's not dead! And she's not exactly human! Boasting some great acting, very cool gore and amazing special effects, this was one fantastic short film! Can't wait to see more from director Lam! To learn more about Lam's films and future projects, visit her official website at www.karenlamfilms.com.

Third film shown was Reda's MY UNDEADLY. In the film a woman is being stalked by an undead zombie, but this awesome horror/comedy has a fun twist ending that made the audience laugh! For those who wish to spice things up in the bedroom, take notes from this film! Reda wrote, produced, directed, and starred in the film along with scream queen Michelle Tomlinson. A cool bonus trivia: the film was shot in the original Michael Myer's house that was used in the original HALLOWEEN! Overall a great short film! To learn more about Reda and his production company Elftwin Films, visit their official website at http://elftwinfilms.com.

Film number four for the night was THE HAUNTED SHIP. Created by Alex Zinzopoulos, Jack Skyyler, and Joel Brook, the film's about four friends who break into the U.S.S. Salem, known as the "Sea Hag." Once inside, they soon discover that the rumors about the ship being haunted are true and must survive until dawn. The film was shot in both narrative as well as POV, with the last being influenced by the 1999 film THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT. In my humble opinion, the found footage idea has been done to death. However in this case, the amalgam of both of these styles proved somewhat effective, and the film does contained some believable acting. Also known as INFESTED SHIP, the filmmakers are in production of turning this short film into a full length feature. To learn more about the film and its directors, visit their website at http://www.dearskyyler.com.

Festival Movie Poster (2011)

The fifth film of the festival was one of my favorite films of the night! Directed by Patrick Rea, HELL WEEK is about a fraternity pledge named Luke (Jerod Meagher) who finds himself tied up and at the mercy of three scorned sorority sisters: Aubrey (Molly Anderson), Mitzi (Meg Saricks), and Marla (Tasha Smith). This beautifully directed film was very slick looking, contained great production values, brilliant acting, and a killer soundtrack. Now this what a short film should be! To learn about the film and about the production company SenoReality Pictures, visit their website at www.senoreality.com.

The sixth film of the night was THE GRAVEYARD SHIFT, directed by April Wright. Kenny (Taylor Gerard Hart) is the new parking lot security guard on the graveyard shift. All seems going well until a woman (Jenna Johnson) overdoses in her car on his watch, but things are not what they appear to be. I had the privilege of meeting Wright years ago when her film LAYOVER was screened at the Cinequest Film Festival. With this film, she does an effective job of creating mood and some chills. To learn more about Wright and her films, visit her official website at www.april9entertainment.com.

Festival Movie Poster (2012)

Film number seven was another one of my favorites screened. Imported all the way of Spain, PROFESSOR BROFMAN was one funny horror/comedy! In the film, Brofman (Bruto Pomeroy) is called in the dead of night by a married woman (Lló Venturini) who suspects that her husband (Paco Maestre) is a vampire. And what role does the young, busty, and sexy maid Doncella (Beatriz Olivares) have in this scenario? The whole film is played for laughs, and comes complete with musical numbers, a love triangle, and a midget playing a ukulele! What more do you need? To learn more about the film, visit its official website at www.promofest.org/films/profesor-brofman.

The eight film up was the abysmal JESSICA, directed by Jason Mills. Inspired by true events, basically the film is about a young girl named Jessica who becomes possessed at a Bible Camp. She runs away. The camp counselors follow her. She stops. They stop. She then turns back to normal. Everyone is happy and relieved. The End. This was the worst film of the night. It contained no real plot, no character development, it had nothing. So if this was based on true events, then what was the whole point of the devil possessing Jessica in the first place? Why was this film made I have no idea, but it was totally unnecessary.

PHOTO was the ninth film screened and was my third favorite film at the festival. Directed by J. Enrique Sánchez, this suspenseful thriller (also from Spain) tells the story of a photographer (Juanjo Artero) and his customer (Patxi Freytez). The film's tag line is, "He only needed one photo. A good one." The film has a TWILIGHT ZONE ending to it, which was a complete surprise and the look of it was polished and well made. Overall a great film! To learn more about the film, visit its official website at www.promofest.org/films/photo.

Festival Movie Poster (2012)

The tenth film screened was a favorite among the audience, and it was my absolute favorite as well! FAMILIAR tells the story of John Dodd (Robert Nolan), a middle aged man who is looking for a way out of his mundane life and to escape from his work and his family: wife Charlotte (Astrida Auza) and his daughter Jordan (Cathryn Hostick). He hears a voice in his head and believes (as well as we the audience) it's his inner thoughts. He begins to act on them, but he soon discovers to his horror that the voice he's hearing may not be his after all. Director Richard Powell did an outstanding job with this film. The film is scares us right from the start, giving the audience chills that stay with them during the course of the film. Nolan also deserves a worthy note for creating one of the most disturbed and chilling characters in cinema, the like not seen since Norman Bates in PSYCHO. It was truly the gem of the night! This dark psychological creeper of a flick is required viewing! FYI: The film was also recently reviewed in the Canadian Horror magazine Rue-Morgue (June issue #123 to be exact). To learn more about the film and all future project from Fatal Pictures, visit their website at http://fatalpictures.wordpress.com.

The last film of the festival was LADY IN THE KITCHEN. Directed by Boi Campbell and Gino Oddone, the film stars Victoria Gauthier and is supposedly set in the 1980's (check out that aerobics attire and those big earrings). While cooking up something in the kitchen, she hears a strange sound coming from the kitchen sink. Is the garbage disposal backed up, or is it something else? Something demonic? This very short film (a whopping two minutes!) was quick, fun, and cool, with a nice blood soaked homage to FLASHDANCE at the end!

Devanny Pinn, Miss Misery, & Brandon Sleagle

After the screenings, Miss Misery called up both Devanny Pinn and Brandon Sleagle to receive their Miss Misery Coffin Statues and to screen trailers from films that they have collaborated on together: AREA 51 CONFIDENTIAL, VIViD, and SONG OF THE SHATTERED. Also receiving a coffin awards were Debra Lamb for work in independent horror films and the great John Stanley. Immediately thereafter, Miss Misery handed out the awards tonight's film winners: In third place was Reda's MY UNDEADLY, second place was PROFESSOR BROFMAN, and taking first place was, no surprise here, FAMILIAR! Miss Misery also handed out some very cool prizes for the audience, such as toys, graphic novels and passes to her horror convention coming this September. More on that in a little bit. After it was all over, everyone meet up in lobby were our winners and filmmakers posed for pictures for fans and photographers.

Overall the festival was a complete success! And I for one cannot wait for next year's fest! For those of you who wish to learn more about Miss Misery, visit her website at www.missmisery.net. To learn more about her company Last Door Productions, and all her future projects, please visit www.lastdoorwayproductions.com. Also as I previously touched on earlier,  Miss Misery will be hosting her Days Of Terror Sacramento Horror Convention at the Scottish Rite Center on September 28th and 29th. So make sure you mark these days on your calender! To learn more about the convention, visit their website at http://daysofterror.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!