The Daves would like to once again welcome Brandon Engel to this site with his continuing retrospectives, this time covering Italian zombie films!

Zombies have long captured the attention of horror movie fans worldwide. George A. Romero, director of Night of the Living Dead, may have started modern zombie madness, but Italian directors offered unique twists with their own contributions to the genre.

If you dig seventies exploitation movies, and you haven’t seen many international releases, you’d be wise to scope out vintage Italian zombie films, particularly those directed by guys like Lucio Fulci and Jorge Grau. Here are the top five Italian zombie movies.

1. Let Sleeping Corpses Lie (1974)

Directed by Jorge Grau (who also recently contributed to The ABC’s of Death), this film features a decidedly anti-macho protagonist. Manchester, England, provides a deceptively calm setting for the film’s irradiated undead hordes. The film begins with George riding his motorcycle into town amid nude hippie streaking and the destruction of George’s motorcycle by a bad driver named Edna. George demands that Edna drive him to his rural home, and zombies soon enter the scene after the two encounter pest control professionals experimenting with radiation to kill grasshoppers. Although almost comical, this premise also helps create an anti-establishment theme appropriate to the early 1970s social climate (and to zombie films in general). Run-ins with police and shocking plot twists occur as George and Edna work to clear her sister of false murder charges while zombies maraud Manchester in force.

2. Nightmare City (1980)

This Umberto Lenzi film is the first undead flick with fast-moving zombies. A classic radiation leak at a nuclear plant occurs in an unnamed city, and the designer of the plant travels to the site to placate the locals. Journalists are waiting at the airport when a camouflage plane arrives only to be surrounded by gun-toting security personnel. After the newly zombified designer and dozens more undead emerge and dominate the security force, the journalists narrowly escape. Martial law is established, and the journalists try to warn the public on television before trying to fight their way out of the chaos.

3. City of The Living Dead (1983)

Directed by Italian horror master Lucio Fulci, this movie depicts a New England town called Dunwich (an obvious nod to H.P. Lovecraft), where a doorway to hell opens after a priest commits suicide. Soon, zombies roam and other supernatural horrors begin to escalate. A journalist and a woman who are linked psychically to the event work together to close the door before the situation grows out of control. A foggy, dreamlike atmosphere and shocking yet artistic images, often riddled with maggots and plenty of trademark Italian gore, accompany the progression to the movie’s unforgettable climax. The film has historically done well in the home viewing market, and more recently, DirecTV subscribers have been able to catch the film somewhat frequently on El Rey Network.

4. The House by The Cemetery (1984)

Also directed by Lucio Fulci, this film portrays a journalist who moves with his family from New York City to a small town in New England to investigate a murder. Replete with Fulci atmosphere, the plot picks up as the young son receives a supernatural warning that the family should stay away. The family is soon terrorized by gruesome visions, off-putting townspeople and even bat swarms. The man of the house, still in journalistic mode, steadfastly refuses to leave as he works to figure out what secrets lie behind the bizarre occurrences.

5. Zombi 2 (1980)

Fulci’s finest. Inspired by the success of Dawn of The Dead, which was released as Zombi in Europe, “Zombi 2” is completely unrelated to the Romero film that preceded it. A scene featuring a zombie fighting a shark in Caribbean waters is easily one of the most memorable zombie scenarios of all time. The film follows a woman named Anna who enlists Peter, a journalist, to help investigate the disappearance of her father. Upon traveling to the tropical island of Maful, Anna and Peter encounter a scientist who worked with Anna’s father to find a cure for a deadly local illness that brings people back from the dead. The juxtaposition of a tropical paradise with voodoo and a heavy atmosphere of doom creates a zombie adventure without match. The film still shows regularly at midnight screenings throughout the world.

The Daves would like to once again welcome guest blogger Brandon Engel to this site, expressing his opinions on the best monster movies of the 1980’s!

An argument can be made the 1980s was the true golden age of the monster movie — a time when no theme was deemed too ridiculous and just about any inanimate object could become consumed by evil. Here are some of the “best” monster movies from the decade that gave us Pac-Man and Madonna:

After being traumatized by an encounter with the killer, the reporter (Dee Wallace in one of her many horror film roles) and husband are sent to a secluded resort to relax and recover from the trauma. Here they encounter some strange people who turn out to be werewolves, including one werewolf who has taken the form of Eddie, the presumed dead serial killer. Loosely based on the novel of the same name by Gary Brandner, the movie is noted for its intentionally humorous undertones and use of puppetry, stop-motion animation and cartoon animation (when the werewolves are supposedly getting it on at the resort) to make the creatures appear more lifelike.

In this case, the title pretty much says it all, a staple of similar low-budget films of the era that relied on a descriptive title with some variation of “deadly or killer” to attract curious moviegoers. The movie itself is high on the gore factor, with face-eating aliens who come to Earth via a meteorite and set up camp in the basement of a nearby home, which is where the spawning starts before spreading throughout the area, much to the surprise of unsuspecting neighbors, who eventually become aware of the menace and, along with a teen obsessed with horror movies, attempt to kill the out-of-this-world invaders and save the day.

New York City’s sewers have produced Cannibalistic Humanoid Underground Dwellers, a fancy name for bums who’ve been affected by toxic waste in a film declared “enjoyable” by the New York Times. This campy ’80s monster movie is delightfully loaded with horror movie clichés and is currently being aired this month on the El Rey network (check this resource for listings). The toxic creatures, apparently having grown tired of living underground, start pulling unsuspecting strangers down into their world through the city’s many manholes. It turns that the “creatures” were once homeless people who came into contact with toxic materials dumped into the city’s abandoned subway tunnels, leading to a showdown with corrupt government officials that further complicates efforts to stop the creatures from coming above ground to feast on city dwellers. Look for early appearances by Home Alone‘s Daniel Stern as the reverend and Roseanne‘s John Goodman as one of the cops.

Not nearly as cute or popular as Gremlins, Ghoulies have a direct connection to the forces of evil unleashed by the son of a sorcerer who inherits his father’s house. In an effort to harness his father’s supernatural powers, he attempts to resurrect demonic forces. In the process, he also awakes some nasty little creatures with a ferocious appetite for humans. While the satanic/black magic subplot is somewhat fascinating, it’s really the antics of the Ghoulies that make this movie a true ’80s monster movie classic, as does an early appearance by Mariska Hargitay and the scene involving one of the creatures popping out of a toilet, which was actually a marketing promo that was later inserted into the movie when it became clear that people actually expected to see that particular scene in the actual movie.

A man’s son is accidentally killed by a group of teens riding dirt bikes. He goes to see a supposed witch, seeking revenge against those who killed his son. Ignoring a warning that revenge comes with a price (there would be no movie if he actually heeded the warning), he digs up the disfigured body of the creature he saw as a boy, effectively bringing Pumpkinhead back to life. Not satisfied with taking the life of the guilty boy, the creature goes on a killing spree and forms a supernatural bond with the man who brought him back to life, with the two apparently connected, meaning that it won’t be possible to stop it without making decisions with serious consequences. Thanks to the legendary Stan Winston, the man behind the special effects in such films as Edward Scissorhands and Avatar, Pumpkinhead doesn’t come off as campy as other horror flicks of the decade, although its limited budget is still obvious.

CLINGER, directed by Michael Steves, is one of those movies that could go either way. The premise has been done before so what is important here is the execution. What I can say is that Steves succeeded where others have failed.

CLINGER is a teenage love story about Fern Peterson (played by Jennifer Laporte) and her first boyfriend Robert Klingher (played by Vincent Martella). Fern is very goal oriented wanting to go to MIT college after graduating high school and doing everything she can to get a track scholarship. Robert’s motivation is being with the love of his life.

Every minute with Fern is cause for celebration in Robert’s eyes, which starts to push Fern away. Though she cares deeply about Robert, his clinginess oftentimes is overwhelming and she realizes that once she leaves for college, she would be leaving him as well.

During one of their many anniversaries Robert sets up an elaborate scheme to proclaim his undying love for Fern. As Fern interrupts him to end their relationship, Robert is accidentally killed by the very scheme he set up. The remainder of the story deals with Robert coming back as a ghost to be with Fern and when he has his heartbroken by her, he plots to kill her so that they can be together forever in eternity.

I found this movie very entertaining from start to finish with a very likeable cast. For the most part it is a teenage comedy, similar to those that were so common during the 80’s, with a bit of horror thrown in the mix. Fern and Robert are both perfectly cast and if you have any memories of teen love from your high school days, then you will be able to relate to both of them.

The film moves at a nice pace and keeps you interested throughout. Even the secondary characters are fun, in particular Fern’s friend Moe who always talks in double speak, setting up something sexual but then turning it around into something clean. This movie plays out like a long episode of Joss Whedon’s BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER and you just can’t go wrong with that!

CLINGER will be in select theaters and on VOD on October 23, 2015.

~David Albaugh

The Daves are pleased to welcome back our very first guest writer, Jamie Lee Cortese! 

Horror comedy is a very interesting and diverse genre.  “Horror comedy” sounds like an oxymoron, but horror and comedy go together so well, and there are so many ways to approach this fun genre.

On one end of the spectrum, you have films like Killer Klowns from Outer Space, which lean much more towards comedy (unless you have coulrophobia).  On the other end, you have films like Scream, in which the danger comes across as very real, but there’s a lot of dark comedy throughout.  Somewhere between those two extremes are films like Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, which has much more light-hearted comedy that mainly comes from characters’ reactions to serious danger.

Horror comedy is a great genre for horror fans, who have seen so many tropes repeated to varying effect in horror movies that it’s great to actually laugh with a movie.  It’s also great for people who are new to horror, because it can ease them into the genre.

This snow was yellow when I got here, I swear.

If you’re going to read reviews before seeing Krampus, please keep in mind that some reviewers unfortunately miss that it’s supposed to be a horror comedy, which might affect their rating.

I have a special place in my horror-loving heart for horror comedy, and another one for monster movies, so I walked into Krampus expecting to have a fun time.  In other words, I’m definitely biased.

Never bring a stick to a Krampus fight.

For those of you unfamiliar with the Krampus legend, here’s the gist: Krampus is St. Nicholas’ assistant.  St. Nicholas brings presents to the nice children.  Krampus punishes the naughty children.  And I don’t mean the “go sit in the corner” type of punishment.

Take a look at the trailer, which shows both the comedy and horror in Krampus:

Krampus was released, appropriately enough, on December 4: the day before St. Nicholas Eve, when St. Nicholas and Krampus make their rounds.  The film was directed and co-written by Michael Dougherty (Trick ‘r Treat); Todd Casey and Zach Shields also co-wrote.  Its stars include Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation), Toni Collette (The Sixth Sense, Little Miss Sunshine), David Koechner (Anchorman, The Office), Allison Tolman (Fargo), and Conchata Ferrell (Two and a Half Men, Mystic Pizza).

As a gift to you “nice” readers, this review is spoiler-free!

“You better watch out”… or he’ll make you cry…

The trailer tells you the basic plot, so let’s get right down to business.

Since Krampus is a horror comedy, I’m sure you have two important questions…

Is Krampus funny?

Goodness, yes!  Since Krampus centers around a family, the comedy is surprisingly varied.  The older, troubled Aunt Dorothy is going to make different comments than the middle-aged, gun-toting Howard.  The comedy becomes more scattered as the film progresses, which helps highlight the increasing desperation of the targeted family, but it’s never completely lost.  Yes, comedy is subjective, but the sheer variety really does promise something for everyone.

We spend a lot of time getting to know the family and their relationships before the horror sets in, so if you’re seeing the movie specifically to see Krampus, be aware that you’re in for a wait.  I enjoyed seeing everyone under “normal” (for Christmas) circumstances before their world was turned upside-down.

Which brings me to your next question…

Is Krampus scary?

You bet!  The scares are also varied, ranging from hilarious, to creepy, to thrilling, to, yes, very scary: sometimes alternating between them.  The horror gradually becomes more intense and consistent as the film progresses, which feels like a very natural growth.  The comedy helps lighten the mood between (and sometimes during) the horror, which really keeps you engaged.

Scary?  Funny?  Both?  You decide!

Of course, horror is also subjective: if you prefer horror movies that are closer to something that could happen in real life, then you may not find Krampus scary at all.  But that’s another great thing about horror comedies: if you don’t find them scary, you can still find them funny and enjoy them anyway.

Krampus is rated PG-13, so it’s not a gore fest, but you may want to be careful about bringing very young children.  There are a lot of jump scares and some of Krampus’ “helpers” are creepy in ways that adults and teenagers will easily brush off, but may disturb younger kids.  But, on the other hand, some kids will be able to handle it with no problems.  Just make sure you know what your kids can take.  You may want to discuss the film’s themes afterwards with them.  Also, there’s a fair amount of swearing.

Now, the bonus round…

Is Krampus good?

Here’s a question: when was the last time you saw a horror movie that had heart?  And I don’t mean someone getting his or hers ripped out.  Krampus has a lasting effect because the title character doesn’t just randomly wreak mayhem: he goes to specific households for a very specific reason.

Krampus has a lot of characters, but pretty much everyone really gets a sequence in the spotlight.  Every adult character has at least one moment to shine in the family’s fight for survival.  The actors do a great job of playing both the comedy and the horror.  The script gives them fun sequences of bickering and snark that will remind everyone of your relationship with those particular relatives that you only see on holidays.  But an even stronger reminder is that underneath that “I’m only tolerating you because it’s Christmas” attitude, they really do love and care for each other, and definitely don’t want to see each other succumb to the evil of Krampus.  Because you get to know the family before the horror really gets rolling, you’re genuinely rooting for them, too.

I don’t see what coulrophobes are worried about, it’s just a jester… OH MY GOD!

Let’s be honest: most of us know when a movie’s using CGI.  Even if it’s incredibly realistic-looking, there are certain things we know have to be CGI, for one reason or another.  I’m not against CGI at all: when used well, it’s wonderful.  But, I also love practical effects.  Many of the effects in Krampus don’t use CGI, which is great to see in a modern horror movie.

Will you like Krampus?  It all depends on how you like your horror comedies.  If you’re a fan of horror, holiday films, or both, I say you won’t regret giving Krampus a chance.

Krampus is a fun, thrilling ride, and, believe it or not, a great way to get into the spirit of the holiday season.  I definitely recommend it, and will be seeing it again.  Stick around during the credits for a new, haunting holiday song.

Scary, funny, and a little something extra to take with you this holiday season?  What more could you ask for in a holiday horror comedy?

A sleigh bell… or a “slay” bell?

Happy Holidays, and please, be good… for goodness’ sake!

Before we officially begin looking forward at the big horror/thriller films 2016 has in store for us, we thought we’d take some time to look back at which films of the genre earned a permanent spot in our home video libraries last year. Most of these never made it to our local theaters so we thought we’d share our Top Ten Choices; possibly calling attention to some you may have missed. Before delving into them, we’d be remiss not giving a special Terror Dave ‘shout out’ to our friend, Jason Schoolcraft. He’s responsible for bringing most of these to our attention and his love of cinema made him the ideal person for helping us sift through the riff raff and directing us straight over to the good stuff! The following films represent our ten favorites. We’re not saying they’re critically the “best,” just that we liked them a lot and deemed them worthy of multiple viewings. Please feel free to share YOUR favorites of 2015 in the comments below!

Backcountry: I love a good “man vs. nature” film but finding a decent one can be pretty daunting. Sure there are plenty of them out there but, unfortunately, for every JAWS there’s about a hundred Sharknados. Personally, I like the ones where the animals aren’t super-sized, riding tornadoes, or boasting multiple heads. Despite our complacency, the fact is we humans are fairly easy prey items for plenty of real creatures living today. Two great examples are the Australian films, The Reef (2010) involving a shark and Black Water (2007) featuring a crocodile. Canada added another great entry to the mix this past year with a rather minimalistic story featuring two people, the great outdoors, and a marauding black bear. The tension between the main couple is occasionally reminiscent of Strangers and makes the viewer almost as quick to ignore the signs of a lurking bear as they are. By the time the animal actually does materialize, tension gives way to terror and you’ll think twice before ever veering off a forest trail again.  Dave F.

Bone Tomahawk: I’ve never liked Westerns but 2015 managed to serve up two that have me reconsidering that. One was Quentin Tarantino’s stunning The Hateful Eight and the other Bone Tomahawk. Both starred Kurt Russell (2015 was a stellar year for Mr. Russell) with the latter venturing into the realm of horror. After members of a small town are kidnapped by a cannibalistic tribe of cave dwellers, it’s up to a band of unlikely heroes to save the day. Gore fans will enjoy some gruesome effects while there’s enough great story and character building to keep those with weaker stomachs tuned in. You genuinely care about these people and find yourself inspired by their facing of such incredible odds.  Dave F.   

A Christmas Horror Story: there is nothing better than a good holiday film to get you in the Christmas spirit. While most people indulge in films like Miracle on 34^th Street or Elf, some of us like to add horror films to our holiday viewing. There have been many classic films that have come out over the years and A Christmas Horror Story is destined to be added to that list. This anthology-style film features four Christmas-themed horrors and the whole package is hosted by William Shatner, who plays a radio disc jockey who not only loves Christmas but loves to drink as well. The stories remind me of some of the better Tales From The Crypt episodes from year’s back on HBO – aside: did you know the inception of that show can be traced to Lethal Weapon? The first story features some teenagers investigating a homicide from the previous Christmas. Story number two finds a mother and father who notice that their son has changed after returning from cutting down a Christmas tree in the woods. Next is a story featuring Krampus, the anti-Santa, in an exciting and fun offering. Lastly, we visit the North Pole where Santa is battling zombie elves. Personally I have gotten tired of many of the Christmas-themed horror movies over the years as they just do not stand up to repeated viewings. This one on the other hand will be around for years to come! David A.

Cooties: This is one of those movies that could’ve gone either way. It has gotten mixed reviews but because I went into it with no expectations, I really enjoyed it. It is a horror comedy and has many laugh out loud moments as well as some pretty terrifying ones. We are all living in a time where we are educated about the importance of washing our hands constantly and using hand sanitizer because of all of the illnesses that are out there. This film takes that fear and exploits it to an extreme with a virus that breaks out at a school causing the students to become homicidal maniacs. You will recognize many of the actors including Elijah Wood and Rainn Wilson. This movie has cult-following written all over it and if you just relax and enjoy the show, you will be a part of an ever-growing legion of fans. David A.

Digging Up The Marrow: This is one of those movies that deserved a much wider release than it got. This mockumentary features director Adam Green (of Hatchet fame) who plays himself. He is approached by a man named William Dekker (Ray Wise) who claims that monsters are real and that he knows where they live. This movie is so well put together that if it wasn’t for the very recognizable Ray Wise, you would question if what you were seeing was actually real! You are torn between whether Dekker is telling the truth or if he is crazy and you feel for Green’s frustration. When the monsters do in fact show themselves it is such a shock and a truly horrifying moment! This is horror at its best and I cannot recommend this movie enough! David A.

Final Girls: Slasher fans revere the 1980’s like a wine connoisseur laments their favorite bottle’s peak year. It makes perfect sense since the elements back then that made them so popular (teen victims with IQ’s below room temperature and sex drives that would wear Gene Simmons out) just don’t click with today’s more sophisticated audience. That hasn’t stopped a few ambitious film-makers from trying to resurrect them on occasion but it can never be the same as if it were created during those golden years. Then comes Final Girls; a movie that reminds us of that old magic while staying true to today’s savvier film-goers. It also boasts a clever new concept which, in today’s reboot/remake/sequel driven world is about as likely to see as one of those recent 1.4 billion dollar winning Powerball tickets! The daughter of an actress who starred in a cult classic ‘80s horror movie finds her and her friends trapped in the very same film. This gives them “92 minutes” to figure a way out of it while avoiding the cleaver of a masked maniac. There are some amusing exchanges between the ‘80s teens and the Millennials along with some heartfelt moments between the screen “mom” and her real life daughter who was never able to make peace with her real-life mother’s death. Middle-aged fans like me will recognize nods to The Burning as well as the Friday the 13^th franchise while everyone should appreciate the humor and stylistic touches. Definitely worth checking out! Dave F.   

Howl: Both of us Daves love werewolves (even over vampires) and David A. listed his favorites a couple of years back in his Thirteen Werewolf Films with Bite piece. I have a feeling that if he wrote that today, there’d be a fourteenth entry and that addition would be the United Kingdom’s Howl. A group of unfortunate train passengers find themselves under siege by a pack of werewolves stalking the English countryside. The creatures are pretty grotesque and I appreciated the liberal use of old school monster effects. True, it probably could have benefitted from the “less is more” rule of thumb, but sometimes you just gotta see that monster! There’s gore, laughs, and further proof that male heroes don’t always come in brawny packages. Dave F.

Krampus: 2015 was a great year for ticket sales and featured some highly successful franchise returns such as The Lost World, Mad Max, The Avengers, and (most recently) STAR WARS. But while most of my friends saw Krampus once and STAR WARS multiple times this past December, the opposite was true for me. Don’t get me wrong, I loved STAR WARS and enjoyed all the movies I mentioned, but Krampus was by far my favorite. Michael Dougherty (Trick ‘r Treat) is one director that knows exactly how to convey the true essence of a holiday’s spirit; embellishing every scene with the perfect visuals. Krampus also manages to capture with satiric precision what a thousand Hallmark Channel movies never can; the immense stress most of us put ourselves through during the holiday season while losing sight of what’s really important. In the end, it isn’t Jolly Saint Nick that remedies the situation but Krampus; a darker version of Santa who hunts down the less faithful. The design of the movie’s villain is a loose homage to Pumpkinhead and assisting him on his dark deeds are some frightening yet imaginative “elves” and gruesome killer toys. It’s stylish and imaginative and worthy of repeated viewings. I saw it twice at the theater and anxiously await its Blu-ray release when I can see it again. Truly Krampus is a Christmas gift that will keep on giving.  Dave F.

Scouts Guide To The Zombie Apocalypse: This is one of those films that I really thought I would hate. Though the trailers looked promising I assumed that they were showing the best parts of the film. The scenes in the trailers make the movie look really fun and I am happy to say that the fun continues beyond those couple of minutes of clips. The most recognizable person in this film is David Koechner, who as the scout leader, proves he was really not prepared. The payoff of this film is that it is just fun. The sight gags are funny and they even manage to bring some originality to a zombie apocalypse. David A.

Tales Of Halloween: Halloween is the perfect time of year for horror movie viewing and every year, there is a handful of “must see” films that I make sure to watch before the night when the barrier between the living and the dead is at its thinnest. Films like John Carpenter’s Halloween and Michael Dougherty’s Trick ‘r Treat are at the top of the list and now this film, directed by eleven people no less, has been added to the Holy Trinity. This film features ten stories woven together with a Halloween theme. They range in quality from just ok to spectacular but even the lesser offerings are fun in their own right. It is chock filled with familiar genre faces in front of the camera as well as behind it and that’s what really makes this movie stand out. It never takes itself overly serious and is a perfect homage to not only horror movies, but to the Halloween season. This came out in limited release to mixed reviews but I am pretty sure that once it gets its official blu-ray release it will become the cult favorite that it was destined to be. David A.

The Daves would again like to welcome guest writer Brandon Engel with yet another of his insightful blogs!

Zombie movies are plenty scary, and horror films featuring psychos on a rampage are horrific, but there’s one thing that’s even worse: when mother nature gets fed up and doles out some hellish comeuppance. Such movies are increasingly referred to as climate fiction, which combines the horror and sci-fi genres. The scariness lies in the fact that the scenarios presented in these films aren’t far off from becoming reality – ENMAX estimates that in the US alone, only about 20% of our energy needs are met by renewables or cleaner fossil fuels like natural gas; mostly we’re still using energy sources that have been linked to climate change. Here are some cli-fi movies that imagine the consequences of nature truly going wild.

The Thing

Much like some of the climate phenomena that the world is witnessing today, the villain in the 1982 movie The Thing is hard to describe. This sci-fi thriller starring Kurt Russell was a hit because it maintained its mystery right through to its conclusion. What, exactly, is this thing? Where did it come from? How does it keep turning random guys and dogs into terrifying monsters? No one could answer those questions, but what the survivors did know at the movie’s end is that The Thing would eventually be how they met their end.

Tremors

Tremors (1990), which stars Kevin Bacon, Finn Carter, Reba McEntire, and Fred Ward, follows residents of a small town as they investigate a string of mysterious deaths. The culprits behind the mayhem turn out to be Graboids, huge, violent, snake-like creatures. The mutants rip apart buildings, turn over cars, and the way they deal with people isn’t all too great, either. The town’s survival depends upon them coming up with a plan to get rid of the Graboids for good. Side note: if you’ve ever seen the episode of Spongebob Squarepants where a huge worm attacks Bikini Bottom, you already have an idea of how this movie plays out. The monster worm in that episode, as well as the episode’s ending, were directly inspired by Tremors.

The Day After Tomorrow

Global warming and climate change are real problems, and The Day After Tomorrow (2004) explores the worst case scenario: a catastrophic weather event that leaves no hope for human survival. Jake Gyllenhaal, Dennis Quaid, and Sela Ward star in this apocalyptic film that sends a chilling message (no pun intended). As the movie unfolds, it becomes clear that climate change is bad, a global event that has the potential to destroy the earth is really bad, and inept politicians that can’t do anything but make the situation worse are terrifying.

Children of Men

When the environment has deteriorated so much that most women are infertile and countries are in chaos, there’s very little hope for humanity to survive. This is the exact situation that plays out in Children of Men (2006), which is based on P.D. James’ novel of the same name. Clive Owens and Julianne Moore play an estranged husband and wife who have to work together to protect one of the few women left in the world that is able to have children. The ending is definitely bittersweet, and no one comes out a winner.

Snowpiercer

Snowpiercer (2013) has to be the ultimate cli-fi dystopian movie. In it, Chris Evans plays Curtis, a bottom-rung resident on the back of a train that repeatedly speeds around the world. Living on the train is the only way for humans to stay alive, after efforts to stem global warming go terribly wrong and the entire earth freezes. Curtis is tasked with leading a riot to end the brutal class warfare that has raged for decades and overthrow the mysterious creator, and conductor, of the train. Add in a bit of political corruption, militarized police, and an epic fight scene, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Aside from the stellar plot and acting in this film, Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of Deputy-Minister Mason – a hilarious combination of Adolf Hitler, Margaret Thatcher, and Muammar Gaddafi – is not to be missed.

These movies are awesome entertainment, but there’s definitely something to be learned behind the drama and the action. While we may not see people-hungry reptiles or a train that holds all of humanity in real life, we are seeing our planet – the only place in the universe that we’re currently able to call home – undergo drastic changes due to our actions.

In the summer of 1986 Universal Studios and Lucas Productions (yes, THAT Lucas Productions) released a film that may go down in history as one of the worst movies of all time. It featured an all-star cast, featuring Lea Thompson, Jeffrey Jones and Tim Robbins and had a budget of $35,000,000 (it reportedly grossed $16,295,774 in the United States according to the IMDB website). The story features Howard, a humanoid duck character from a planet much like earth whose predominant species were ducks instead of hairless apes.

Howard The Duck opens with the title character coming home from a long day at work, checking his mail, having a beer and watching some television. All of a sudden the chair he is sitting in starts shaking and he is pulled from his apartment through a beam in space and brought to Cleveland, Ohio. Here he encounters the worst of the worst in humanity until he meets Beverly (Thompson), a wannabee rock star who treats him with respect. In trying to find out how Howard got here we are introduced to Beverly’s scientist friend Phil (Robbins) who then introduces us to Dr. Jenning (Jones), a scientist working on a laser spectroscope. It is this spectroscope that brought Howard to earth. When this machine is used again another being comes to earth, known as the Dark Overlord of the Universe, who possesses Dr. Jenning and is bent on taking over the world after using the spectroscope to bring down more Dark Overlords. It is up to Howard, Beverly and Phil to save the planet.

The movie is based on the Marvel Comics character created by Steve Gerber and Val Mayerik who debuted in December of 1973 in the comic book Adventure Into Fear number 19. In 1976 Howard got his own title that ran for 31 issues and every few years a new limited run series is released featuring everyone’s favorite wise-cracking duck and his misadventures.

The movie was widely panned upon its release though it does seem to have a bit of a cult following now. Recently it was released on Blu-ray. I myself have always liked this movie and upon seeing it again in this release I wanted to write because to be honest, it’s really not that bad of a movie.

The script itself is fun and fast paced. It never lets up and is a great mix of comedy and adventure, though some of the comedy does fall short. Thankfully this only happens on occasion and overall I found this movie very satisfying and to me it has held up nicely all of these years, even after repeated viewings. I think one of the reasons that this movie got such bad reviews is that people just didn’t get it. They probably never read the comics and honestly didn’t know what to expect. If you go into it with a clear and open mind, you just may be pleasantly surprised!

The cast is just wonderful. Lea Thompson as Beverly is in her prime here and looks absolutely stunning. Her chemistry with Howard is actually pretty convincing which must have been difficult to do considering who Howard is. Beverly sings in a rock band called Cherry Bomb and she did all of her own singing, which is actually really good! She has a great voice and stage presence and her songs are one of the highlights on the Howard The Duck soundtrack! The music is totally 80’s and since this was the time that I was in high school, I probably find it more appealing than most.

Tim Robbins, though a little over-zealous, is perfect as Phil and his chemistry with Beverly and Howard are great. At times he comes off as more immature than his character’s age but he does mature as the movie progresses. The banter between Phil and Howard during the ultralight plane police chase is fun and one of the movie’s highlights.

Jeffrey Jones is perfectly cast as Dr. Jenning. Before changing he is a very likeable character and his metamorphosis into the Dark Overlord is fantastic, thanks to some subtle makeup prosthetics and Jones’ acting ability.

Many of the scenes are beautifully shot with great angles and the lighting is perfect. The ultralight plane police chase is fast and exciting and looks as though it was difficult to shoot. Jenning’s laboratory looks very realistic and ominous with the laser spectroscope a sight to behold.

As much as I enjoy this movie though it is not without its faults. First off are the actors who play the secondary characters. When Howard first arrives in Cleveland he confronts two thugs who try to attack Beverly. They come across as goofy and more annoying than a threat. The acting is horrible and it takes away from what would’ve been a genuinely tense scene. Later, when Howard confronts the manager of Beverly’s band Cherry Bomb we see a group of low lifes that once again do not come across as a threat at all. They all come off as comic relief and it just doesn’t work. When Howard, Beverly and Dr. Jenning stop to grab something to eat after escaping the police, every single person in the restaurant is made up of poorly acted hicks with the only redeeming thing being that Jenning, as the Dark Overlord, attacks them all in much-deserved fashion.

Lastly are the special effects. You would think that I am talking about the duck costume but I am not. In my opinion the costume is actually pretty good, even though it doesn’t hold true to the images from the comic book. The face has great expression, especially in the eyes, and the character actually grows on you.

The main special effects complaint deals with the visual effects from Industrial, Light and Magic. George Lucas just came off of three highly successful Star Wars movies loaded with visual effects and those used in Howard The Duck are such a step down that it is insulting to the viewer. Most of the scenes in question feature Dr. Jenning as the Dark Overlord and his ability to shoot beams from his eyes. These effects should be second nature to ILM. When Jenning’s eyes start to glow, a very basic effect, the “glow” is not even properly placed over the actor’s eyes. You are basically adding a solid glowing color to the actor’s eyes covering the whites and pupil. This effect extends unevenly beyond this area and looks horrible. The eye beams themselves vary in quality from poor to decent but with a company like ILM you would expect them to be flawless.

Lastly is the Dark Overlord himself, after escaping Jenning’s body. The actual design is very cool and the animation used is very similar to what Ray Harryhausen was very famous for. The problem is Harryhausen, for a fraction of the cost, would’ve done a lot better. The movements are ok but the creature is lit in such a way that doesn’t match its surroundings so it is always evident that it is a poorly executed special effect. There are motion blurs that should not be there and many of the scenes featuring the creature and the live actors do not match up that well. It’s really a shame too as this battle is the finale of the movie and it really should’ve been explosive and exciting. The quality of the effects is more evident now in high-definition on Blu-ray.

Don’t let the poor job on the part of Industrial, Light and Magic deter you though from a very fun film. Howard The Duck, now 30 years old, is a great addition to the Marvel Universe and should be a part of everyone’s movie library. With the appearance of Howard once again at the end of 2014’s Guardians Of The Galaxy at least we know the character is not dead. Watch this movie with no expectations and you will have a good time. It is after all a talking duck!

~David Albaugh

The Daves would like to welcome friend and fellow horror fan Jason Schoolcraft to our site with his take on the film Seven Dorms Of Death! We are honored that Jason is sharing his first blog with us here on Terror From Beyond The Daves! Now, a little about Jason from Jason!

My name is Jason Schoolcraft and,  just like the Terror Daves, I’ve always loved movies and animals! The former was sparked by my local library playing classic Our Gang/Little Rascals shorts back when I was growing up in the ‘70s. Later, my world would be forever changed when I was thirteen and my best friend Mike’s dad took us to a midnight showing of the original Dawn of the Dead by George Romero. I can honestly say that the film changed my life and single-handedly sparked a love of horror that persists to this day. I’m now forty-nine years young and fortunate to work at the Roger Williams Park Zoo (the same one that Terror Dave Albaugh works at) for twenty-six years and also part-time at a movie theater for the last nineteen. Both jobs have their perks but being affiliated with a theater not only garners me free admission but an introduction to just about every genre imaginable. In fact, calling me a “movie lover” is a definite understatement as I watch, on average, about 350-400 movies a year; not an exaggeration as I track and “grade” every single one of them! Though I’ve gained a broad appreciation for cinema, horror remains at the top, and my latest viewing was one I felt compelled to share with all of you.

Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

You need to see Baron Von Blah as the Horror host of the Celluloid Crypt (what a great name) in Seven Dorms of Death!

A short time ago I was lucky enough to have scored one of the very last tickets to the premiere of Richard Marr-Griffin’s newest feature Seven Dorms of Death. It was a full house, including many fans and the cast members. Richard said a few words before the lights were dimmed and then the crowd grew silent as the title appeared on the screen. The theatre was full with laughter until the final, final credits ended!

Let me back up and start at the beginning.  I met Richard many years ago working on some TV shows. I was always working a camera while Richard was directing, editing and pretty much doing anything else they would let him do. I think he cut his teeth on those early shows.  A short time later he kept moving on doing more shows and I lost track of him. Then, ten years later, a writer friend of mine said he was working with this guy Richard Griffin.  I said there can be only one Richard Griffin so I began to follow his career and his films.

Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

His early films seemed to have what has been missing in Hollywood. He is someone who longs for the old films with directors who made films with hard work, fun and a good story. I have been on the set for a few productions because I was curious. Richard works at break-neck speed and his cast and crew would do anything for him. Besides directing and running his company, Scorpio Film Releasing, he has written screenplays for others and worked with many other producers and directors.

Richard tells me he is lucky to have worked with the greatest cast and crew in the business. Since I am a fan of the horror genre, I need to let you know about just some of his recent film titles. Frankenstein’s Hungry Dead, Normal, They Stole the Pope’s Blood (short) and The Sins of Dracula!  As Richard matured as a director his skills for directing continued to be refined. Most (if not all) of these films can be bought at the website HERE or for sale on many formats of Video On Demand. So, please check them out for yourself. Richard has been fortunate that the films he produces are in demand and he has recently partnered up with MVD, which I understand is an astounding distribution company for indie directors.

Seven Dorms of Death merchandise table.

On a cold winter’s night as I entered the theatre, I was met by a growing group of fans aching to catch his newest film.  I saw cast members and crew milling with the fans. Everyone was a buzz. Once ushered to our seats, the director went to the front of the screen and said a few words about the film, spoke accolades about the cast and crew and prepared us for what we were about to experience. He said that everyone thought that this broadcast of Baron Von Blah’s The Celluloid Crypt was lost forever, but that in a very old UHF television station they found a rough copy on VHS, and we would be the first to see a screening of the film Seven Dorms of Death.  The film, in my opinion, is his best film. I think it would do well in a wide theatrical release, or an admirable wide DVD release. I know there is rarely a film that can be called perfection. Many come close, but this film came so close that I give the film a 9.5/10!  It was the most fun I’ve had at the theatre in quite some time.

Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Here’s what the press release said about the film:

Seven Dorms of Death tells the tale of a cursed stage play that is about to be performed at a New England college. Unfortunately for the director, the young cast, and anyone else involved with the production, someone has much deadlier plans for this play! Can a pair of homicide detectives, an intrepid newspaper reporter, and a student with psychic powers solve the mystery and catch this ruthless killer before more people are horrifically murdered… or is everyone doomed? Put on your Members Only Jacket, fire up your Walkman, and get ready to go back the 80’s with Seven Dorms of Death.

So I caught up with two of the stars after the premiere and I am grateful for their time and candor. I wanted to ask what it is like to work with Richard Marr-Griffin.

Aaron Andrade as Detective Vargas. Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

First up was Aaron Andrade who plays Detective Vargas. His character of a loud and tenacious detective is a stand out performance in the film.

He met Richard about 15 years ago, while shooting Future Justice. It was nice meeting him for the first time. When asked was he great to work with he said one of the best things a director can do is trust their actors. And if Richard casts you, then it’s safe to assume he trusts you to do the work required and be able to roll with the punches as they come. Aaron said Richard’s style compliments his immensely. He’s an experienced enough filmmaker to know what he’s looking for. And just as he trusts you, it’s got to be reciprocal. I, with a wink, asked if Richard was tough on the set and he said “a tyrannical pussycat.”   He added that Richard is a prolific, hard-working director. The man has an amazing work ethic that is both inspiring and terrifying.  Lastly I asked him to use one word or phrase to describe Richard. His response was, “He’s not just one of my favorite directors, but one of my favorite people.”

Check out Aaron Andrade’s IMDB page HERE for some of the great work he has been up to lately, other than his tremendous work on Seven Dorms of Death.

Michael Thurber as Baron Von Blah. Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Then I was able to get Michael Thurber to take a few minutes to share his thoughts on Richard. Michael plays the horror host that ties the film together. Baron Van Blah is not your typical horror host. No, MUCH better! After you see this film, and you must, you will agree with me that Baron Von Blah needs his own film! Here is some of what Michael had to say about Richard.

Michael first heard about Richard while working in a stage play with Sarah Nicklin. She told him that she did these Indie films and Michael expressed a sudden interest! As luck would have it, Richard would be coming to the play that night and Sarah introduced Michael to Richard. As they say, I think sparks flew that night because Richard offered him a small role in The Disco Exorcist! The rest, as they say, is history. He said Richard is a “no bullshit” director and that suits him fine because Michael is as well with his own theatre company. He said, “Richard does NOT waste my time, and prefers the actors NOT to waste his.” He is completely prepared when he starts production because of all of the pre-production legwork that he has accomplished – no wasting time! Michael sees a lot of what Richard does is the way that he, as Artistic Director and founder of his theatre company, has run for 32 years.

I asked the same question with a wink if Richard was a tough director to work with and he said, “Neither a tyrant NOR a pussycat! Richard, a professional who knows his craft, has one of the best senses of humor that I have ever come across in my life! He can and has reduced me to absolute tears of hysteria many times. And then it’s back to work!”

I still can’t hear! Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Asked for a word or phrase to describe Richard he said, “Benevolent Dictator.” Someone has to be in charge, to be answerable for any and all things “Scorpio”…and yet at the same time be focused on the schedule and quality of the project you are creating as well as the care and well-being of the people involved! He handles it like a master and I am one actor who would take “the bullet” for this guy, any day, and any time. I hope I have been helpful, my friend.

Check out Michael Thurber’s IMDB page HERE for some of the great work he has been up to lately in addition to  his tremendous work on Seven Dorms of Death.

And you can see his cast love Richard. And if you ever get a chance to see a screening with Richard you would see all of his cast and crew feel the same way.

Dinner time. Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

After the film I wanted to interview him as I had decided to do a story for the Terror Daves web site. Richard was reeling with the great feedback at the theatre, and so many great, incredible reviews online.  I was afraid he might not have time (did I mention this guy never stops?). But he was gracious and answered my questions. I even called him back after I finished writing it with 2 more bonus questions.

Coming up next: TEN QUESTIONS WITH FILM MAKER RICHARD-MARR GRIFFIN!

Friend of the Daves, Jason Schoolcraft, finishes up his two part coverage of the film SEVEN DORMS OF DEATH by interviewing film maker Richard-Marr Griffin!

Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: When and where did you get the bug to work in the film industry and make films?

Richard: When I was 12 years old my father bought me a Super 8 camera. I totally fell in love with making short films with friends and family members. When I was 20, I was hired by a local television station, where I spent 14 years directing, producing and editing magazine shows, talk shows, commercials. It was a tremendous way to learn all aspects of production, and get paid while doing it! In 2004 I left TV and formed my production company, Scorpio Film Releasing, with my partner Ted Marr.

Did you hear something? Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: How many films have you directed?

Richard: I have directed 20 features and so many shorts that I can’t even keep count.

Jason: What film/director inspired you want to make films?  And why HORROR?

Richard: That’s not an easy question to answer quickly! I was inspired by directors like Billy Wilder, Howard Hawks, Dario Argento, Frank Tashlin, Chuck Jones, John Carpenter, David Cronenberg, Francis Ford Coppola. And, why horror? Well, I love the genre! My mother was a huge horror movie and horror novel fan, so I guess some of that rubbed off on me. I think maybe I’m so attracted to it because I love getting a reaction from the audience. Make ‘em scream, make ‘em laugh. Just make them react! Also, horror allows me to be very visual, unlike a run-of-the-mill drama.

Let me talk! Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: I have seen some of your films. Is it safe to say you have some go to actors/actress?

Richard: Yes, there are certain actors I keep going back to again and again. Some of it is that they’re very talented, and some of it is that there is an ease to working with people you know well. Making a movie is hard enough without going through the “getting to know you” phase

Jason: It is also safe to say you are a prolific Independent film writer/producer/director. How are you so successful?

Richard: Our success as a company is that we have fun. We work very hard, but we all love and respect everyone. On my sets nobody gets “star treatment”. We’re all in the trenches together, making the best movie we possibly can, and at the same time we’re having a blast doing it. I think the audience notices that. Also, we respect our audience. We don’t talk down to them; we know that horror fans are really a smart, savvy group of people who know when you’re just phoning it in.

Let’s Get The Bad Guys! Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: You seem to hedge towards horror but have dabbled in many genres. What would you like to do that you have not tried yet, or when you did it did not work so well?

Richard: I would love to direct a western! I actually have a screenplay for a supernatural western called “Four Coffins for the Devil” that I still want to make. Also, I want to direct more comedies. I had a blast making Accidental Incest, which is based on an award-winning play by Lenny Schwartz and I’d like to do something similar in the future.

Look Out! Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: This is a 2 part question: What was your favorite film you directed? What was the film you had the most fun making?    

Richard: They’re all my favorites. I know it’s a cliché, but they’re like you’re kids. You love them all for different reasons. Some films turned out great, but they were hell to make… but you still love them. And mostly I love them all because of the people involved. But, if I was going to say what film I had the most fun making, it would have to be a movie called Exhumed, which Guy Benoit wrote. That was 11 days of filmmaking bliss.

What?!? Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: If you had one WISH and could pick any Hollywood actor/actress or writer who would you love to work with?

Richard: They’re all dead! Seriously! I would have loved to work with Lee Van Cleef or Ernest Borgnine. But the actors from the “Golden Age” of Hollywood are almost all gone. If I had to say, I would like to work with a great character actor like John Goodman.

Photo courtesy of Scorpio Film Releasing.

Jason: I have seen you write on more than one occasion after a Hollywood film has been released and you didn’t like the way it turned out, heard you say something like “Give me 1/100 that budget and I could make that film a success”! What film in recent 10 years or so would you love to get the chance to make it right?

Richard: Oh boy. I could have done a much better job with Sweeney Todd. I would have also liked to be able to take a crack at Stephen King’s The Stand. The entire cast is a standout in my opinion. They had to act campy, and lost in the school production. The director did an outstanding job pulling together the cast, crew, writer and was lucky to get that something special, that turns a good movie into something special that only comes along once 10 or 20 years!

So in closing I will say I am waiting for my limited cast signed DVD edition of the film SEVEN DORMS OF DEATH. Richard put out on the Scorpio Film Releasing Facebook Page  about this limited sale, I jumped on it! I am eagerly awaiting his next film, because no matter what it is, it will be FUN and entertaining and independent!!

With a few exceptions, I can’t say I was overly impressed with 2016’s horror movie selections. In fact, I’d pretty much written it off as yet another lousy year until the other night when I popped on a screener copy of The Autopsy of Jane Doe.  The film made its debut last September at the Toronto International Film Festival before receiving a limited theatrical release here in the States on December 21^st. It was filmed in the UK and marks the first English-speaking movie by Norwegian Director, André Øvredal, who also directed and produced a film the other Dave discussed back in 2011, Trollhunter. I can only hope this won’t be his last.

Andre’ Øvredal – A new face for Horror

The film centers on Tommy and Austin Tilden (deftly played by Brian Cox and Emile Hirsch); father/son coroners in a small town who are just about to call it a night before a rather unusual body shows up at their door. For inexplicable reasons, an attractive nude female (portrayed by Owen Catherine Kelly) was found half buried in the basement of a home where seemingly unrelated murders took place. The charred remains of the occupants are directly at odds with the pristine body of the unidentifiable woman and, making things even more baffling, was that there were no signs of forced entry but rather evidence the residents were trying to break out of the house instead. The befuddled Sheriff Sheldon (Michael McElhatton) asks the Tildens to put in a little overtime on his “Jane Doe” in the hopes her autopsy will garner some insights before his inevitable grilling from the press.

“Game of Thrones” Michael McElhatton not thrilled to see the press pull up

The family owned mortuary setting is unnerving in and of itself and even creepier when Austin gives his girlfriend, Emma (Ophelia Lovibond), a peek at some of the other bodies currently residing there. If nothing else, it definitely dispels the myth about small towns being dull and devoid of violence. It’s also an opportunity for the senior Tilden to discuss his ritual of tying a bell on all the bodies; heralding back to an old practice designed to prevent premature burials as well as an effective plot device here.

Hells Bells!

It isn’t until they start cutting into their “Jane Doe” that the supernatural elements of the film begin to unfold and the viewer finds themselves locked in a rollercoaster ride they can’t get off until its denouement.

While the final explanation for these occurrences seems a bit contrived, it’s an original concept nonetheless. Truly good supernatural horror films outside of anything James Wan touches aren’t easy to come by these days but Øvredal proves himself more than capable. Despite lots of gruesome sights, the horror is fairly subtle as the fear factor slowly reaches its boiling point. I must confess it’s been a long time since a movie actually got my adrenaline pumping but this one succeeded during several scenes.

“Why didn’t I become a dentist!?!”

The acting is superb and I legitimately cared about the Tildens and their enviable father/son relationship. Øvredal stated in an interview that the best acting was actually from the “corpse,” Kelly, who not only put the cast at ease with her being nude throughout the film but used her Yoga skills to minimize breathing.

The role of Tommy Tilden was originally supposed to be played by Martin Sheen but I honestly can’t imagine anyone else being as effective as Cox despite usually seeing him portray a villain. This was Øvredal’s first foray into horror and he is said to have been inspired after seeing a screening of The Conjuring.

Again I say…let it not be his last!

Dave Fuentes~

The Terror Daves would like to welcome back our friend, Jason Schoolcraft, for his scintillating review of a brand new horror anthology you won’t want to miss!

I just watched The Dark Tapes, brought to the masses from Epic Pictures. Knowing that these are the same guys that have been knocking it out of the park with such great films as Tales of Halloween (loved it), Turbo Kid (wow, what a retro sci-fi masterpiece!), and V/H/S (awesome), I was very excited to see what next they had in store!

What’s described in the press junket accompanying this screener as “a genre-defying mixture of horror, sci-fi, myth, mystery and thrills told as four interlocking tales of one intelligent anthology full of ghosts, spirits, and creatures” is dead on folks. They didn’t oversell this film at all, save perhaps for the “interlocking” part. Regardless, the overall tone was steady throughout the film and the transition between tales was done very well.

Let me start by saying this is not your average found footage/POV film and I think it should stand as the genre’s new standard. The film begins with no explanation of who or why someone is viewing the footage nor why the first story is broken up amongst the others but somehow it all works. The first story is called To Catch a Demon and is woven throughout the remainder of the anthology. Directed by Vincent J. Guastini, this story initially resembles the majority of found footage films but, rest assured, you’ll be blown away at the conclusion! The best I can say without spoilers is that it reminded me of Altered States. My only criticism is that I feel they made a mistake showing the “demon” with so much clarity. I think found footage films work much better when there’s more left to the imagination and, in my opinion, that would have provided this story more impact.

The second story is called Hunters and Hunted. This tale begins with a couple moving into their beautiful new house only to discover there’s something terribly wrong with it. After unsuccessfully trying to work things through themselves, they turn to the paranormal community for assistance. Needless to say, help no sooner arrives when all hell breaks loose! Although on paper this may sound like your typical “Paranormal hunters trying to rid a house from ghosts,” let me assure you, it’s not! As with all these stories, the film doesn’t get stuck with one style of filming which keeps each story fresh and the viewer ever vigilant.

The third installment, Cam Girls, really stood out for me! Although the story is slow to reveal itself, it’s well worth the wait. The lead female, Emilia Ares Zoryan. is an actress whom I suspect we’ll be seeing much more of in the future. Not only is she nice to look at, her character is a rollercoaster of emotions! This story leans towards the erotic side but like the other tales will have you jumping out of your skin by its end!

The final installment is titled  Amanda’s Revenge and, of the four stories, proved to be the film’s deepest. Amanda played superbly by Brittany Underwood, is attacked at a party by some no-gooders. She awakens the next day with no recollection of the night before, thus beginning a four-month journey of self-discovery. Then, FINALLY, she…well…you’ll just have to watch and see for yourself! Again, it is worth the ride and the ending will blow you away!

Although I said there wasn’t much “interlocking” with these stories, I will say the mixture of horror, myth, sci-fi, ghosts, and monsters all have one thing in common; scaring the hell out of you! The stories also all show strong performances from their casts along with great storytelling and deft directing/editing. It’s a super creepy, mind-bending paranormal ride with more pieces of the puzzle revealed as satisfied viewers go forth.  This anthology should change the way found footage films will be told and take the genre to a much-needed, higher level. I hope I’ve inspired you to run out and see this film because it’s well worth it! MIND BLOWN 8/10 stars.

~Jason Schoolcraft

Terror from Beyond the Daves welcomes our friend and Cinemaphile, Jason Schoolcraft…

The Night of the Virgin (La noche del virgen) is a 2016 Spanish film I’d read about but didn’t get to finally see until this past weekend’s Days of the Dead convention in Indianapolis. The movie was scheduled to screen on that opening Friday night and, after checking out some of their amazing vendor’s (see Dave’s last post), I eagerly made my way to their make-shift theater to see this. Although there was so much going on at Days of the Dead, I was happily surprised to see a small crowd would be joining me for this show. Originally the director was supposed to introduce the film but didn’t make it. I should also mention that shortly after it began we noticed there were no subtitles and, despite repeated attempts from the organizers, we’d all be seeing the film entirely in Spanish. It wasn’t their fault as the director had gotten stuck in transit and this was the only video file he’d sent them. Although a couple of people understandably walked out, most of us stayed and I was glad to be one of them.

The story takes place on New Year’s Eve and revolves around a young man named Nico (Javier Bodalo) who’s intent on losing his virginity before the night is over. This is easier said than done for the less attractive Nico who hilariously strikes out left and right during the course of the evening. He’s just about to concede defeat when the lights suddenly dim and he sees the attractive Meda across the room. Even better, she seems to have her eyes for his as well! The chemistry is such that the two seem to have an entire conversation without words (not that I’d have understood what they were saying anyway) before making their way back to her apartment. Actually, it was less an apartment and more like the worst dorm room ever!

The rest of the film is a journey of perseverance, fear, loathing and pain. It involves jilted lovers, the supernatural, and Nico’s tunnel vision to have sex with a woman, any woman! I thoroughly enjoyed it as it reminded me of two of my favorite movies, the first being a comedy, sex romp called Kika (1993) and the other Peter Jackson’s infamous Dead Alive (1992). The Night of the Virgin was loaded with laughs and plenty of gags…some which made the audience want to “gag,” themselves! The single-minded Nico will stop at nothing to pop his cherry to the point that he’s oblivious to Meda being much more than she appears. The humor and the gore factor appropriately build until everything (and everyone) gets to their climax!

Even without knowing anything anyone what was saying, I still give this film a solid 8 out of 10 “Buckets of Blood!” I’m sure that rating will climb even higher after I have   seen the subtitled version!

Coming up…TWO Godzillas stomp Days of the Dead!

~Jason Schoolcraft

I spent our last night at the 2017 Indianapolis Days of the Dead just like I did the first one; taking in another screening at their “48 Hour Independent Film Fest!” This time around I’d be seeing Plank Face, an Independent film created by a group of Indianans who’ve managed to put out several genre movies for the past few years. I got my first taste of them here and would categorize them as “B horror films,” though this is not a criticism. I grew up on a steady stream of low budget films that I loved and will forever cherish. In fact, in my home state of Rhode Island, I work with an Independent movie company called Scorpio Films Releasing and consider several of their films to be the hallmark of my movie library.

So let’s talk about Plank Face…

Before the film began, Brian K. Williams and Scott Schirmer provided an introduction. These guys, together, had written, produced, edited, and composed the score for Plank Face. They also mentioned that the gal who wore the bunny mask in the film, Alyss Winkler, was sitting in the audience and that she was with her mother. At this Ms Winkler responded, “Don’t worry guys, it’s gonna be a lot more awkward for me than it will be for you!”

Before the lights dimmed, they informed us that there will be boobs in the film, in fact lots of them. They also forewarned us that the first five minutes was NOT what the film was about. Needless to say, I was intrigued and still paid way too much attention to that opening scene!

As always with my reviews, this is spoiler free! The film starts with a typical slasher type scene featuring a male and female having sex in the woods. Despite the tone, it’s the woods itself that is integral to the plot and you feel its isolation and loneliness before it becomes a stage for survival. The score was very good and I remember commenting to Terror Dave Fuentes that it reminded me of Pink Floyd. The music was also effective at driving many scenes that lacked dialog.

The cinematography was top notch and the shot composition excellent! These filmmakers took their time and the effort shows. There were three female leads whom I can best describe as “ferial.” I should also mention that the wait for  bare breasts isn’t long and, once they’re out, become pretty much a staple. The ladies need a “NEW” man and believe they’ve found one to fit the bill. The story progresses to become an odyssey of torture and survival with the traditional male/female victim roles reversed. You’re never really sure what the full scope of the captive’s role is meant to be: hunter, protector, or possible sperm donor but it’s a painful conversion nonetheless.

This feature is about 1:45 minutes but could easily have been trimmed about ten to twenty minutes, in my opinion. Despite the nudity it was easy to lose interest as some of the scenes did drag on, though it’s worth staying till the end. This is not your typical horror film but, if you’re like me, you prefer your movies unique and interesting anyway.

I give Plank Face 6.5/10 buckets of Blood (and Boobs)!

~Jason Schoolcraft

Coming up…2017 Indianapolis Days of the Dead coverage concludes with John A. Russo’s panel on George Romero.

This is another film I was able to see because of attending Days of the Dead (DOTD) in Indianapolis in early July and I am so glad I did. I was able to meet the director, Brooke Ewing, a first-time director that pulled no punches telling everyone and anyone that she made the film for $0. Brooke had an idea, friends, passion and time. I was able to hear her talk about her film making experience on a panel where she spoke about the joy and pain of being an indie film maker. Making her movie was the easy part and selling her film was a challenge and hence her marketing phrase $5 movie “Buy it, don’t pirate it”. I loved chatting with her at her vendor table and was excited to hear that she had wrapped on her sequel to SHE WAS SO PRETTY!

Now onto the review. Although it sounds like a typical horror film (young girl in the woods with her friends, separated and kidnapped) but everything else is NOTHING like you have seen. The protagonist is played by Amanda Butler and she does a great acting job. Playing the victim to Jerry Larew’s standout performance as Alfred James Ellis III all though we never hear it spoken. His performance was one of the creepiest in recent memory. The supporting cast was ok, and the detective on the case gets a few good laughs. And Alfred’s apartment was creepy as hell! There are more than a few twists and I can‘t wait for the sequel!

This little film, a $5 dvd indie film, that was a fan favorite at DOTD deserves to be seen. A film with soul, a creepy soul, needs to be seen. Brooke has a seasoned eye for film making. The story was great. The set and actors were great. I see great things coming her way so go and buy this film, it’s only $5. At the INDIE panel Brooke said she was getting better, was able to raise a decent amount of funds to make the sequel MUCH better. Let me tell you she is off to a great start. I hope to see her next year at DOTD again hawking her new film: SHE WAS SO PRETTY: BE GOOD FOR GOODNESS SAKE! This film is not perfect but it is an Indie film made for the love of Horror film. And it far exceeded that!

Worth a watch, I loved it 7.5/10 buckets of blood!

Today’s review is about another great Australian film. The film scene down under consistently puts out a few great films a year. WYRMWOOD, Wolf Creek and Animal Kingdom come to mind as great thriller/horror films since 2005. It also goes without saying FURY ROAD is in another category all together! But before I get into KILLING GROUND I think it is worth a moment to clear up what is a HORROR film and/or THRILLER film. When I am asked what makes a film a thriller or horror I often give a quote ex-vice president Al Gore’s wife stated (for another reason, but works for me) during her fight to censor music lyrics. When asked what are explicit lyrics she said, “Well it’s like pornography. I am not sure but I know when I see it.” I feel the same way about a HORROR film or THRILLER film. Hard to define, but I know when I see it. I did a little research and here are the best definitions I can find (although vague) that make it easier to really know the difference and why so many films have been described as BOTH!

Horror: an intense feeling of fear, shock, or disgust. Thriller: with an exciting plot, typically involving crime or a high degree of intrigue, adventure or suspense.

And after seeing KILLING GROUND, both of these descriptions describe the film. The film is an Australian survival thriller that starts with a couple off for a getaway weekend only in the quiet outback. I’ve seen the haunting trailer so I know it’s not going to go well. And in short time they do as well when the site they have selected is not as isolated as they had hoped. There is a nice tent set up 20 yards away on the water’s edge but they decide they’ll make the best of it and besides, Ian (Ian Meadows) has plans to make the weekend memorable. Sam (Harriet Dryer), his girlfriend, is not afraid of the outdoors and is equally excited for time alone. Things soon are not what they seem. They soon realize the tent is abandoned and overtime we then learn through great story telling that the couple in the adjacent tent have a small child and a teenager. The tension builds as the 2 families and outside forces collide putting them in fear of their very lives! The isolation of the location plays a vital role in the film. And the realism makes you feel like you are fighting along with them. Grimacing around every tree, after every trip and every SHOT.

In this rare occasion, there are 2 antagonists that feed off each other that brings FEAR to a new level. Chook (Aaron Glenane) and German (Aaron Pedersen) are characters that make you squeamish the moment they are on screen. These are  roles that might type cast them or give them plenty of work as the BAD GUY in many films.

The story is well thought out and it all comes together very well. The actors are top notch and they play well to the characters strengths and weaknesses. What starts as an adventure ends in SHOCK and it will leave you drained and shaky. I am sure this film will make you think twice before your next camping trip.

8/10 buckets of BLOOD with a sh%t load of fear!
#killingground

I first read Stephen King’s “IT” when I was a sophomore in high school. It was the longest book I’d ever read at that point (later beaten by King’s full version of “The Stand” a few years later) and I remember being consumed by the story and characters. The iconic author is known for his uncanny ability of capturing the angst of youth as well as tapping into what scared us. In truth, it wasn’t until my late ‘20s when I read IT a second time that I truly appreciated that. We adults tend to romanticize childhood, reminiscing about our favorite cereals and TV shows, while dismissing the grimmer realities of neighborhood bullies, parental pressure, and how helpless we were. Many people site their first exposure to IT via the 1990 TV mini-series but I’ve always been much closer to the source material.

That’s not to say that I idealized the book and hated the series. I thought they did a decent job with the casting and it’s pretty much unanimous that Tim Curry was a phenomenal Pennywise. By the same token, there are two scenes in the book that I wish weren’t there: one involving a puppy and another a childhood gangbang (and fellow IT readers know what I’m talking about). Like most people, I found the second half of the series lacking before completely unraveling at the end. I think the problem was that they tried so hard to stay true to the book and that’s not always something that translates with a Stephen King book. Reading his books is an intimate experience and allows us glimpses of what his characters think and feel and dialogue that reads well on paper doesn’t always sound so natural out loud. In the end, lack of budget/technology led to a huge eight-legged let down and that’s all I’ll say regarding that. So let’s dive into the new one…

I just returned from the theater and look forward to when I can go back to see IT again! After having nothing but doubts since I first heard the project was even happening, I’m happy to report that director Andres Muschietti has hit a home run! The famous opening scene with Georgie and the sewer drain (as seen in the trailers) is the perfect set up for a film chock full of jumps and, dare I say, genuine scares. The viewer is fully engaged from start to finish; something even the book and mini-series couldn’t completely pull off. I was worried about the casting, particularly with regard to the children, but they all nailed it. In my opinion the young actors in the mini-series were weak individually but worked well as a team. These youngsters, in contrast, are endearing both together and separate. I also thought this version of Beverly Marsh (Sophia Lillis) was much more how I imagined her while reading the book. The presence of Finn Wolfhard (Richie Tozier) is oddly appropriate as this film does has a Stranger Things feel to it. In this regard pop culture has gone full circle since “IT” has been cited as one of the popular Netflix series’ influences. It also has their time period as the ’80s instead of the ’50s to further the comparison.

Of course the million-dollar question is how IT’s iconic villain stacks up. Swedish actor, Bill Skarsgard, wisely made Pennywise his own and not a parody of Curry’s. Taking full advantage of the film’s “R” rating, this clown is scary as hell and I’m fairly certain will achieve its own cult status among horror fans. Another advantage of a 2017 motion picture Pennywise vs a 1990 TV movie one is that they’re able to utilize more of his supernatural elements (and seamlessly I might add). Pennywise is only one expression of IT; an evil that transcends physical form and that was more evident here. Fans of the 1990 one, however, will notice a nod to their favorite clown if they pay close attention.

Just as the mini series fell short in trying to be so much like the book, this one succeeds by taking the core elements and becoming its own thing. It’s less adaptation and more inspiration and that works to IT’s advantage. Though I wasn’t thrilled with a “damsel in distress” plot device they had going, I did understand its usage and approved of all the other changes they made. This movie also leaves out a lot of unnecessary details and nuances of the characters and their relationships with there parents that work much better in written form.

Like the mini-series, this tale will have two parts and I’m hopeful the same creative team is in charge and can wash away the short-comings of the former. I should mention that in 2018 HULU will be releasing an original series called “Castle Rock” which will intertwine characters from Stephen King’s most famous works. Skarsgard’s Pennywise will be included and is reason alone for me to hang on to my HULU subscription. Tomorrow (or today depending on when you’re reading this) I’m heading out to Horrorhound Weekend in Indianapolis where they’ll have a special killer clown costume contest and IT giveaways. That being said, IT is definitely worth celebrating!

~Dave Fuentes

Hello, Terror Dave readers! It’s time for a retro 90’s drive-in double feature!

First I have to ask…do 90’s “B” movies stand the test of time? Well I’ll let you know what I think after watching the two rerelease features I’m discussing today – Bio Tech Warrior and Time Trap!

I should mention, the Daves asked me to watch and review these at the request of the director, himself, Bret McCormick. Apparently these films are about to finally get a DVD release and he wanted to get the word out. I’d never heard of them and only read a brief synopsis before diving in. If you’ve read any of my previous reviews than you know I have a soft spot for low budget movies.

First up, the sci fi/conspiracy film, BIO-TECH WARRIOR, which has a running time of 1:21.

I love a creative film-maker who’s willing to take chances in getting their vision of a story on film. You can definitely see that McCormick did this with Bio Tech Warrior. The film starts with a 3 1/2-minute prologue that is so cinematically different from the film, yet does an excellent job laying its foundation. It opens with three men looking over a man who’s been hypnotized and recounts a story about aliens while warning of danger.

Christopher Heldman plays Seth Marshall, a government agent who really stands out. There are a few other actors deserving of  mention as well, most notably TJ Myers as Sam and Sky Callahan (awesome name) as the Bio-Tech Warrior.

The story is good though the dialog at times seems inconsistent. The leads are decisively more polished in comparison to the acting skills of the supporting characters. The locations for this movie were ideal and McCormick made excellent use  of his southwest setting. It has, as one might expect, a great 90’s vibe including early CGI and techno music scattered throughout. The makeup and costumes for the Bio-Tech Warrior, although minimal, really worked for me too.

I do feel this film would have worked better as a short as some scenes lingering a bit too long but it’s still very watchable. B or Indie films are big nowadays and I think Bio-Tech Warrior’s return comes at an ideal time for reaching a new-found audience and fan following

So does BIO-TECH WARRIOR stand the test of time? I give it 6/10 laser blasts and suggest you check it out and decide for yourselves!

Next up, TIME TRAP, running time 1:41

Another Bret McCormick film, this one starring the uber-famous, Jeffrey Combs, who boasts over a hundred roles spanning several decades. Many will remember him during his zenith in the ’80s and ’90s! In Time Trap he plays a not-quite-mad scientist named Dr. Carrington.

This film starts with a couple of PI’s on a seemingly routine stakeout. Soon, a 5000-year-old fossil takes them on a journey through time itself! As a scientific team is assembled for a terrifying time warp adventure, the chase is on! Combs leads a cast of very fine actors at many great locations and it’s a journey that kept the viewer guessing throughout. There was a great car chase early on with machine guns at high speed that was particularly fun. I’ve always been a fan of time travel films while pondering what effect that might have. The effects were very good and the monster make-up was awesome. There was a great line stolen from the legendary Clint Eastwood that was not expected but perfectly delivered and very funny!

The film is filled with time travel, dinosaurs, and even the Civil War! There’s something in this for everyone and it makes for a great double feature with Bio Tech Warrior! Add some friends and beer and you’ve got a perfect night of fun! If you’re like me and love 90’s B-movies, it will not disappoint! The best way I can describe TIME TRAP is Star Trek meets Land Of The Lost.

Time Tracers 7/10 stun blasters!!

In closing, BIO-TECH WARRIOR and TIME TRAP did indeed stand the test of time. Now go buy or rent this before your time runs out!

~Jason Schoolcraft

I love when I get an email from my friends, the Terror Daves, and it starts with, “Would you be interested in reviewing this film?” My answer is almost always “YES” and it’s even better when the film turns out to be a decent found footage film such as this.

The folks that made Hell House LLC have just released the Special Edition Director’s cut DVD. Last night I sat my butt down and was hoping this wouldn’t be just another “found footage” film that have flooded cinema these last few years. Thankfully, it wasn’t! Hell House LLC is a cut above the norm for this genre and one of the best I’ve seen in a long time. First, they took the much-needed time to work on the story as well as the print and TV footage that drives the film. Second, despite looking like the average POV cast, they slowly show their acting chops as the story develops.

The formula for most found footage films is that we hear about a story or incident and then the footage backs up what we already know. Not the case with Hell House LLC! They keep most of the story a secret until it’s actually revealed by the footage itself. You meet the four friends that are planning to open a seasonal horror haunt. We see them settle on a location, plan the rooms, and as the characters are introduced, it’s a slow burn leading to plenty of scares. In fact, it’s the most scares I’ve seen in a found footage film since The Blair Witch Project (1999)!

As the haunt’s opening looms closer, strange happenings cause the four friends to slowly unhinge. As I pride myself on spoiler free reviews, I’ll just say this: If you suffer from coulrophobia you might sh*t your pants!

I wish I’d been able to see this in theaters with a crowd. I think the audience’s reaction would’ve been awesome.

You can buy the special edition DVD HERE!  There’s are also a bunch of extra’s including director commentary and more!

I rate HELL HOUSE LLC an 8.5 on the SPOOKY meter! So go buy this one folks!!!

Jason Schoolcraft~

I was asked to review Dawning of the Dead from the TERROR DAVES’ site, and I typed in BOLD letters “you had me at ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE!” This film has a well thought-out story line with great special effects and some great acting. I will say though that over the last few years there have been more misses than hits in this genre and I am glad to say this film falls into the latter. The director did a great job showing the global scale of a zombie apocalypse and there are many nods to the George Romero zombie classics. Improvised weapons harken to memories of Peter Jackson’s Dead Alive (1992) as well.

The films starts with two government agents chasing a man down the street and then cuts to scenes all over the globe where something we will soon learn is a Pandemic Verdi is being released via small sealed vials seemingly by unwilling participants. And so the journey begins to start as we try to figure out what is it amid mounting death toll and ramped mayhem. You should know by now I do my best to give the feel of a film without giving spoilers. Another set of details that I really liked was that they took the time to work on the back story details through the use of TV news footage and news print ads.

Tony Jopia, the director as I stated, did a great job. The leads Ian Sayor and Ruth Galliers are phenomenal and there is a good supporting cast. The digital effects at the start of the film could have used more time/money but when they hit you with some practical effects they are great! There is a shot ear during the opening of the film when you see the reflection of the chaos in Ruth’s eye. This looks excellent!

The pace of the film is very good, never losing sight of the global implications. With a running time of 1:48 it’s a well packed zombie film. The film stays focused on the reporter and the group in the television studio (yes a television studio). The kills get better and more violent as the film charges to a conclusion along with the fast moving zombies. As the truth begins to unravel the likelihood of survival begins to fade. You can catch this film on most VOD formats as well as on DVD.

Dawning of the Dead
Story: 4/5
Acting: 3/5
Direction: 3.5/5
Gore: 3.5/5
SFX: 4/5
Final Tally: 7.5/10 buckets of dead zombies!! A must see for zombie fans!

I am looking forward to the director’s next film, Cute Little Buggers. Watch for review coming soon.

FULL DISCLOSURE: I donated to an online fundraiser to help produce this film. The “thank you” was a producer credit.

This past summer while at Days Of The Dead at Indianapolis I was able to see She Was So Pretty and meet the director Brooklyn Ewing (review of film here). While speaking with her I found out that the sequel was almost complete and with some luck would be out in time for Christmas 2017! She Was So Pretty was her debut film and she freely shared that the sequel was going to be so much better. Brooklyn said she learned so much making the first one and who could forget her selling pitch: anti-pirate edition, don’t pirate-buy it. I bought it! And If you read my review of the first film, you know I loved it, and that my hopes were high for the sequel. Indie film making at its best is about the story and making it come to life with what you have. Brooklyn worked her magic again.

She Was So Pretty: Be Good For Goodness Sake is Brooklyn Ewing’s sophomore film which had its world premiere recently at the Nightmares Film Fest in Columbus Ohio, as well as the convention premier at the DOTD Chicago fest in November. Needless to say I was too far away to attend either, but was able to watch a screener, thanks to Brooklyn and DIRT CANDY productions.

She Was So Pretty: Be Good For Goodness Sake brings back Jerry Larew Jr. (as Alfie the serial killer still in search of the girl of his dreams) just a few months after She Was So Pretty left off. Ms. Ewing delivers what she promised – a tighter, bigger, and better film. With this film the director had more help in the production which resulted in a more polished film. Along the way Alfie meets Eleonore, and he thinks she may be the one. Little does she know what she is getting into, and maybe neither does he? Of the new cast of characters Destiney’s was the stand out. She was shy and was able to hold your attention when sharing the screen with Alfie.

There are a few glimpses into Alfie and why he does what he does, and maybe hopes he can change. Maybe? I just wanted the film to be a bit longerso that they could delve into Alfie’s past. Perhaps show his childhood and show us what went wrong!

The story plays out very nice and with the holiday setting, it added another layer into the story and more into Alfie’s personality. The addition of Joe Huck editing and assisting on cinematography can be seen on much of the film and how it was cut.

Alfie is back with some holiday cheer along with Detective Baldwin (he looks a little different) when it quickly gets back to the….KILLING. I didn’t think Alfie could get more creepy but I was wrong, he does! I am not sure if Detective Baldwin is more hell-bent on killing or over the last few months he has come into his own and Alfie still carries his case of “tricks” where ever he goes. This means killing is just around the corner.

The overall production is very well done on a micro indie budget. The soundtrack is full of original tracks and plays a huge role in the tone and pacing of the film. Brooklyn has taken the creep factor to a new level as we are along for the ride with Alfie and Detective Baldwin as it leads to a final conclusion. This film will be out soon on VOD, Vimeo and other formats. I can’t wait to see what Ms Ewing has up next.

Too often sequels fall short of the original, but not this time. Brooklyn Ewing has made another gritty Indie film for all of us to enjoy. His work is right on the screen for you to decide.

Dear I say this is a new Holiday Classic? Perhaps this is not the last of Alfie, perhaps there be a SWSP 3: A Family Vacation!

She Was So Pretty: Be Good For Goodness Sake 8 /10 buckets of creepiness!!!