Welcome to the new home of Creepercast.com. Where we let the fear creep in with all things horror genre. News, Reviews, and more! STAFF:
J.P.: Editor (EIC - Editor in Cheif), Writer (CC - Content Contributor);
Joel Kenyon: Editor (AE - Assistant Editor), Writer (CC - Content Contributor); William S Mayfield: Writer (CC - Content Contributor)
the intense new horror thriller from Tim J. Brown, on VOD March 7th
Starring Robin Dunne (Syfy's Sanctuary), Dan Payne (Star Trek Beyond), Daniel Cudmore (X-Men: Days of Future Past), and Briana Buckmaster (The CW's Supernatural)
Directed by Tim J. Brown (The Cradle)
There's no escape from this.
When estranged brothers Adam and Clint attempt to reconnect over a week-long hunting trip in remote British Columbia, they find the tables turned by a mysterious presence lurking in the forest.Convinced that they are now besieged by a supernatural presence, the siblings begrudgingly agree on only one thing: they will have to put aside their differences and work together if they plan on making it out these dark woods alive.
Directed by Adam Wingard and written by Simon Barrett. It is the third film in the Blair Witch series and a direct sequel to The Blair Witch Project. The film stars James Allen McCune, Callie Hernandez, Brandon Scott, Corbin Reid, Wes Robinson, and Valorie Curry. The film follows a group of college students and their local guides who venture into the Black Hills Forest in Maryland to uncover the mysteries surrounding the disappearance 20 years ago of Heather Donahue, the sister of one of the characters. Initially, the film's connection to the Blair Witch franchise was kept secret, with the film having been shot under the fake title, The Woods. The initial theater for the screening was filled with posters for the fake film. After the screening (during which audiences realized that the film was a sequel), all the promotional material in the theater was changed to reflect the film's actual title.(WIKI)
We have chosen not to recognize Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2, and will henceforth refer to Blair Witch as the official sequel to The Blair Witch Project. Also, just to go on record, this reviewer (J.P.) is not a fan of the original film. I do recognize that it paved it a way for a new previously undeveloped genre of horror known as found footage that has grown exponentially since. Again, I would not call myself a fan of the filming style, although it does have its moments (see [REC]). I was also excited to hear about Adam's project The Woods, was not excited to hear it was actually a Blair Witch sequel, but firmly believed that if anyone could make the series better it was Mr. Wingard. Like most critics I would agree that is far better than its predecessor, remember Book of Shadows does not exist in our world, so yes, I am saying better than the original. Unlike what most critics would like you to believe, Wingard does have an amazing command of horror elements, making scenes of the film legitimately scary as hell.
Sure, all the standard found footage elements are there, shaky cam, glitching video, jump scares on the peripheral, someone yelling to shut the camera off, a pull away or two. Wingard even unapologetically throws in a face close up but not to tell us how scared the character is but to offer a peek behind them. Where the film excels even more is the way it throws us out of comfort zones with tunnel vision, use of sound, and messing with our phobias. My favorite evidence of such while in a tree a character tries to retrieve a drone, at night, with a flashlight. a jump scare later that defies logic! If you're a fan of the original this one will be better. If your like me and give or take the original, Blair Witch will be a newer better experience for you.
Troy Escamilla, in collaboration with Fright Meter Films, is set to produce his second feature film and bring true holiday terror to the screen in Fall 2018. Titled Stirring and penned by Escamilla, it was inspired by Escamilla's favorite horror film, 1974's Black Christmas and will focus a group of students attending a Christmas party at a sorority house with a sinister past who are stalked by a bloodthirsty killer. Horror icon and Scream Queen Brinke Stevens is set to star in the film alongside Helene Udy who appeared in the classic 1981 slasher My Bloody Valentine and up and coming indie horror actress Kaylee Williams (Model Hunger, The Lashman, Porkchop 3D).
Escamilla has a goal of raising $13,500 by March 10th, 2016 with the Stirring campaign. There are a plethora of great rewards available for backers, including the opportunity to be an extra in the film! Troy Escamilla knows and respects the horror genre. He founded the Fright Meter Awards, which have grown in respect and popularity over the last few years with global backers that make up the over 50 member international Award Committee, including bloggers, writers, directors, producers, actors and fans in the horror genre.
Fright Meter Films first feature, Party Night, was filmed this past June after being successfully funded on Kickstarter. Also written and directed by Escamilla, it wrapped post production last month and has received very positive early reviews from sites such as Dread Central, iHorror, The Horror Sydicate, and PopHorror. Escamilla plans to hit the festival circuit in 2017 with Party Night. He promises Stirring will not disappoint: “Fans of holiday themed horror will enjoy the hell out of it; it’s bigger, bloodier and bolder than Party Night! Fans will recognize winks to Black Christmas, Silent Night, Deadly Night and To All a Goodnight, but will also appreciate its own unique style and take on the Christmas themed slasher,”
JOIN THE PARTY & support the film at: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1488629688/stirring
Remember: Kickstarter Campaigns are all or nothing.
Pledge now. There are great rewards for backers! Big or small, all pledges are welcomed and all count! Every amount helps us hit the front Kickstarter page! Remember: the money is not contributed now—It will not be paid until the campaign ends and only if the project meets its funding goal!
Visit the Kickstarter page even if you can’t pledge. All views help boost our notice!
If you know someone who could contribute and is a fan of the arts and/or horror, tell them about the film and ask them to pledge at Kickstarter.
Let others know—share the Kickstarter campaign page on your social media accounts.
Yearly film festival hosted by Drunken Zombie. The DZFF strives to showcase truly independent horror films. Hosted at the Landmark Theaters in Peoria, IL.
The annual Mega-Showcase of the newest products and services for the Haunted Attraction industry. Networking, events, haunt tours & more.
--
MAD MONSTER PARTY
MARCH 24 - 26, 2017
Rock Hill, South Carolina
The Hood Center, 375 South Anderson Rd.
Presented by Mad Monster magazine, this horror convention returns with guests so far including Ricou Browning, Haruo Nakajima (Godzilla), Bin Furuya (Ultraman), a Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 reunion and more..
--
WALKER STALKER CON
MARCH 25 - 26, 2017
Chicago, IL
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
Giant touring Walking Dead convention with a huge part of The Walking Dead cast in attendance along with other TV & zombie stars.
It was only a couple of days ago when our son was watching the television adaptation of Training Day, that I happily pointed out the lead on the show was Chet from Weird Science, A movie we had shared with him hardly a week before when we were going through a John Hughs faze, as we sometimes do. Months before we also marathoned the Terminator, Alien, and Predator series' and remember one of us saying, "wow, Bill Paxton is in everything!" Not only does that seem to be the case but he is an important character actor in just about every film that we hold dear to our hearts from The Lords of Discipline to Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.. His unashamed lack of ego, ability to steal a scene, and humor will forever be a challenge to his peers. But sadly, for now, to one of the greatest and most prolific actors to ever grace our screens, to the actor that has been killed on screen by the ultimate trifecta of monsters (an Alien, Terminator, and Predator), to the one I've often bragged of sharing a day of birth with, it is with sad hearts we must bid Bill Paxton a Creepercast farewell. Yet, we refuse to believe his famous Alien quote here, since we strongly believe the game is never over, only just beginning.
As with all of my reviews of films for The Creepercast, I fully recommend that you check each and every one of them out. I am one man and this is my opinion. I've seen plenty of movies that received reviews that were the complete opposite of how I saw the film. These writers, directors, producers and actors all put a lot of time and love into these projects. They deserve to be seen and appreciated for what they are. Everyone has a dream and I fully support the people that take the time to make theirs a reality. With that being said....
'Clownhouse' is one of those films that gets mentioned, a lot, as being a classic of the clown horror genre. I've been putting it off for years, because I was never in the right mood and wanted to let the hype die down. Over that time, it continued to cement itself on many critics 'best of' lists. Well, I finally took the time to sit down and give it a day in court.
Directed by the controversial director, Victor Salva, primarily known for the 'Jeepers Creepers' franchise and 'Powder' and stars a very young Sam Rockwell. 'Clownhouse' opens 2 weeks prior to Halloween, as we're introduced to 3 brothers who are enjoying a local circus. The youngest brother, Casey, is revealed to have an irrational fear of clowns after being asked to be a volunteer during the show. He screams and runs out, leaving his other two brothers behind. At this same time, we learn that 3 men have escaped from a local mental institution and promptly kill the 3 clowns from the show and choose to put on their makeup to.... hide from capture? After the circus, the 3 brothers head home to spend the evening alone, as their mom is away for the night. The oldest brother, played by Rockwell, makes some popcorn and puts in a scary movie for them to watch. As they're watching the film, the power goes out and the 3 clowns sneak into their home. The rest of the film, consists of the 3 brothers eluding the 3 clowns and eventually fighting back, as best they can. At some point, the police are called and things come to an end, with still no sign of mom.
After the movie was over, I started to question what all the hype was about? Why was this film considered such a classic? It felt more like a TV movie of the week or an 'After School Special' than it did a horror film. Don't get me wrong, I think Victor Salva has talent, despite his unhealthy fascination with young boys, but this is not his crowning achievement. The music, the cinematography, the script and the direction all felt so flat and uninspired. The actors all did the best they could, with what they had to work with, I can't fault them for that. Perhaps it was just dated or perhaps it was intended to be the way it was? I guess only Mr. Salva knows for sure. All I know is that I was unimpressed.
Let's take a quick moment to talk about the music. In any film, horror or not, the music should underscore the action and help to set the tone of what you're seeing. In 'Clownhouse', the music was designed to play up the fact that mentally unstable men were dressed as clowns out to terrorize a house of young boys. In small doses, it might have worked. The problem was is that it never seemed to end or let up. After a while, it actually began to detract from the film. It's overuse became almost comical. I don't know if it would have made it a better movie without it, but it might have made a little more tolerable. All in all, 'Clownhouse' was a giant letdown. A 2 out of 5 star film, at best and I think I'm being kind in giving it that much. Maybe I missed the point? Maybe I waited too long to see it? Maybe it really was just that bad? I don't regret the time I spent watching it, because now I can check it off my list of things I needed to see.
Give it a chance, as you might see it and really dig enjoy it. For me, I don't ever need to see it again.
If you want enjoyable clown based horror, check out: 'Killer Klowns from Outer Space', 'Clown' or 'All Hallows Eve'
Just like in 2010 when ‘Stake Land’
originally premiered I missed it at first. So last week when looking for a new
movie with my wife I am shocked to saw a poster for ‘Stake Land 2’. I sat with
my jaw on the floor. How did a sequel to one of my favorite movies, let alone
the best vampire movie I have seen in years, slip past me? I must be getting
old.
Stake land 2 starts off some years after we
left Martin (Connor Paolo) with Peggy(Bonnie Dennison), now a couple with a
child living a simple life in the what’s left of America. It doesn't take long
for Martins past to catch up to him in the form of an all-out Vampire attack on
the local town. Moving with a new leader or hero’s world is torn away from him
and forces him in to a bloody path of vengeance. Once on the road to now find his
mentor, the mysterious Mister (Nick Damici) Martin runs into trouble here and
there as he sees nothing has changed in the “Stake Land” since he settled down.
Crossing the wasteland he is captured by a small band of psychos that love to
have pit fights to the death that reminds me, at what point of the apocalypse
do we start to have fighting pits dug for our enemies? But quickly he is
reunited with Mister. After learning of Martins quest for blood he agrees to go
with him on his quest for the vampire leader who is rallying the vamps and who
killed his family. We are introduced to some new characters along the way who
have no love for the blood suckers either.
Stake Land 2 shows us what a vampire apocalypse would be. Fearing the
vampires are just the beginning as the humans are just as evil in some
instances. Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, they help continue where the
first left off and hopefully into the future. I love this series and I promise
you there is no sparkling.
As with all of my reviews of films for The Creepercast, I fully recommend that you check each and every one of them out. I am one man and this is my opinion. I've seen plenty of movies that received reviews that were the complete opposite of how I saw the film. These writers, directors, producers and actors all put a lot of time and love into these projects. They deserve to be seen and appreciated for what they are. Everyone has a dream and I fully support the people that take the time to make theirs a reality. With that being said....
Every once in a while, you come across a movie that makes you wonder if the film makers were making it just for you. This was exactly what happened tonight, when I had the pleasure of seeing Josh Bear's 'Lumberjack Man'. Within the first ten minutes, I knew exactly what kind of film this was going to be and that I was already in love with it. From the opening credit sequence, showing the killer preparing for his reign of terror and questionably ending with him making some pancakes, you could tell that this wasn't going to be your run of the mill camp hack and slash kind of outing. Being a bit of a jaded horror film fan, at this point, I've practically seen it all. When something comes along that catches me off guard and makes me giggle like a school girl, I know that it's going to be something special. It takes a lot these days, to scare me or make me flinch and even more to make me audibly laugh out loud. Although, 'Lumberjack Man' was neither very scary or cringe worthy, it was incredibly funny and full of some genuinely horrific moments. Feeling like the love child of Lloyd Kaufman and Sean S. Cunningham, you could instantly tell what the film makers had grown up watching, as kids. I could easily imagine them sitting around the TV with their friends, hoping that mom wouldn't come downstairs and catch them watching something they weren't supposed to be seeing. Just like I did, when I was a youth. Except that I ended up writing about those films, as an adult, and not making them instead.
'Lumberjack Man' is a story about revenge. At it's very core, it's a story about a simple man who was taken advantage of. Because of this wrong doing, he's seemingly cursed to come back every 30 years, to wreak havoc on anyone that happens to be in his path. The film opens, at the beginning of another murderous anniversary. As the Lumberjack Man has come back, yet again, to slice and dice his way through the unsuspecting camp full of Christians. (not that he's the religious type, they're just victims of circumstance) We see a bus load of camp on their way to camp, complete with all of the expected stereotypes. Meanwhile, we also meet Dr. Peter Shirtcliff (played by Michael Madsen), who's headed the same direction, but for a very different reason. He knows about the Lumberjack Man and is hell bent on stopping him.... or at least getting all of the camp counselors out of harms way. But of course, every one thinks he's crazy and doesn't want to heed his warnings. Not long after everyone arrives at the camp ground, does the murder and mayhem begin. One by one, each of the staff is cermoniously dispatched by the backwoods butcher. Before long, it becomes clear to everyone that maybe their lives are in danger. Sadly, it's too late to escape the wrath of the Lumberjack Man, except for a small rag tag group of people willing to fight back. Will they survive the night? And will there be breakfast in the morning?
Co-written and directed by Josh Bear, this movie is everything I want a horror comedy to be. A great villain, over the top kills, main characters that you want root for (either to survive OR get killed) and a touch of absurdity to make it stick out. Sure, it's got some flaws here and there. I mean, how realistic can you make a giant stack of pancakes? It's also got one of silliest premises I've seen a film of this kind, but that's what balances out the whole mixture. Plus, if you've ever wanted to see Michael Madsen be funny, then this is the movie for you. Not too mention that item on my bucket list that I never knew existed.... seeing Micheal Madsen get out of a tiny car. Check. Now, 'Lumberjack Man' isn't all fun and games. There are some genuine moments of brilliance. For example, the ax throwing scene, is pretty amazing and I'm still not entirely sure how it was pulled off. Or the scene where the boy is pulled back inside the mess hall and the garage door slowly closes. That's the kind of stuff, straight up horror is lacking in. There was also a big question mark on what the purpose of the glowing red eyes, behind the mask, was. I soon found out, during the part when the lights go out and then again at the end. It's a very original twist on the theme of a faceless killer and one I've never seen done before.
I can't say enough good things about this film and I recommend that anyone with a taste for the bizarre, should check this one out. There are so many little jokes sprinkled throughout the run time, that it begs for repeated viewings, to catch all of them. My only regret is that I can't watch it again with fresh eyes. (also, why is this not on Blu-ray?) At this point, I've already talked this movie up so much, that I can only hope that it will live up to the hype, if/and when you take the time to enjoy this little slice of horror heaven. Perhaps, in this case, the people that are always telling me about films that were 'made for me' are right. It's like someone crawled inside of my head and pulled out all the stuff that makes me laugh like an idiot. 'Lumberjack Man' is a full on 4 out of 5 star powerhouse, that deserves a larger audience. Maybe not everyone will get it and I'm sure that quite a few will be offended at the jokes made about Christianity, but life is full of too much political correctness as it is. It's time to step back and laugh at ourselves. There's not enough humor in the world today. So kudos to everyone involved in the production and I'm very much looking forward to what comes spewing forth from their collective brains in the future. Until then, I've got this little gem to tide me over. Now where's my syrup?
If you like this film, be sure to also check out: 'The Final Girls', 'Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead' and 'Thankskilling'
KATEE SACKHOFF TALKS "DON'T KNOCK TWICE" WITH BLASTR!
DON'T KNOCK TWICE has proven itself to be a sleeper hit since its release two weeks ago, getting praise from fans and critics and staking out a place in iTunes Top 10 Horror Films charts. Star Katee Sackhoff has been getting heaps of praise for her role as the mother of a teenager haunted by a witch's curse ("one of her best dramatic performances to date", Nerdist), and she talks to SyFy's Blastr about the challenges of DON'T KNOCK TWICE and some sci-fi TV show she used to be on. Read it here!
13 Sins (also known as 13: Game of Death) is directed by Daniel Stamm. The film is a remake of the 2006 Thai horror comedy film 13 Beloved. Mark Webber stars as Elliot, a meek salesman who accepts a series of increasingly disturbing and criminal challenges. It premiered at the 2014 SXSW film festival and was released theatrically in the United States on April 18, 2014. (WIKI)
There was a salesman that swallowed a fly, for a lot of money, he swallowed that fly. I guess he'll die? Well, maybe not, no spoiler here, this is actually how our protagonists adventure begins, with an ominous phone call that offers to pay him to kill a fly that is bugging him and then eat it. Which he does, to find the money properly deposited into his bank account. As predicted, the tasks get harder, and more dangerous, with each phone call, to total 13 by the end, at which time he will be a very rich man. If he decided to back out, he'd lose everything. The perfect situation for a meek salesman that just lost their job. A story similar to what will eventually become Nerve with a touch of Would You Rather. Each task requires battling social norms and breaking cardinal laws. They mess with sensibilities but also serve as a release from boundaries as Elliot gets closer and closer to being Michael Douglass in Falling Down, a total change in personality and increased confidence is a bi-product of his experience. 13 Sins is gory with moments of violence and sometimes funny in a Weekend at Bernie's way.
Mark Webber is the perfect victim to this game of morals, he naturally expresses himself as a week individual and therefore his growth is drastic and violent, like the tasks he is being forced/volunteered to participate in. His story is twisted and human, and the whole dead guy scene was brilliant. Ron Pearlman is great (as always) as the detective tracking down the many crimes that are committed. 13 Sins is well cast, acted, and a twist of insanity that will make you wonder what you would do, with more than one twist and revelation.
The haunting and unique AMERICAN FABLE finally comes to select theaters, VOD and cable On Demand today from IFC Midnight! A truly unique and original cross between Guillermo del Toro and Terrance Malick, AMERICAN FABLE is a dark, dreamlike mystery plays out amidst the expansive farmlands of the American Midwest. With her family’s livelihood imperiled by the farm crisis of the 1980s, eleven-year-old Gitty (Peyton Kennedy) loses herself in a world of fantasy and make believe. But she stumbles into her own fairytale when she makes a startling discovery: a well-dressed mystery man (Richard Schiff) being held captive in her family’s silo. It’s the beginning of a labyrinthine journey that will turn Gitty’s world upside down and force her to question her loyalty to her own family. The feature debut from director Anne Hamilton unleashes a torrent of gorgeous, stunningly surreal images as it immerses viewers in a child’s imagination in this wondrous, storybook thriller.
Are you tired of the same old horror films? Looking for something new? Johnny Macabre and TheBloodShed have created www.IBleedIndie.com, a new indie VOD website that’s full of fresh meat.
You may already subscribe to streaming websites such as Shudder and Netflix, but IBleedIndie is the first of its kind. If you’re looking to see films that you truly haven’t seen before, this is the website for you.
The site provides a safe haven for indie filmmakers around the globe to share their work without the pressure of distribution contracts or sales agents.
As a pay-per-view service, 90% of the proceeds from sales and rentals go directly to the filmmakers. This is fantastic news for self-distributors who were previously limited to creator-operated channels on YouTube and Vimeo.
The filmmakers don’t have to sign over their soul, either. They keep the rights to their own films without any multi-year contracts to weigh them down.
IBleedIndie was launched in mid-November with a little over 100 films. They have now grown to 160 and aim to have 200 by the end of the month.
Filmmakers like Ryan Nicholson (Gutterballs, Live Feed), David Williams (FrightWorld, Red Scream Nosferatu), and Daniel Murphy (House of Whore, Night of the Dolls) have already supplied multiple films upfront.
With a library of titles, the site is divided into sub-genres, such as Anthologies, Foreign, Grindhouse, Shorts, Christmas Horror and Award Winning. If you’ve got a hankering for a specific type of terror, they’ve got you covered.
The beauty of the pay-per-view VOD structure is you only pay for what you want to watch, when you want to watch it. There’s no monthly charge for films that you’ve already seen five times.
Feature films rent for 72 hours at $3, short films are $1. A select few are available for digital download.
The Winchester brothers will be back for another round of horror, humor, and eerie action, as The CW has officially renewed Supernatural for a 13th season.
The CW President Mark Pedowitz announced the 13th season of Supernatural at the Television Critics Association Press Tour. A premiere date for the 13th season has not been revealed yet, but we'll keep Daily Dead readers updated as more details are announced.
The show is currently in its 12th season, which premiered on October 13th. Below, we have the official press release with full details:
Press Release: January 8, 2017 (Pasadena, CA) — The CW Network has given early renewals to seven of its primetime series for the 2017-2018 season. The announcement was made today during the network’s session at the Television Critics Association Press Tour in Pasadena by Mark Pedowitz, President, The CW. “Over the past several seasons, The CW has built a schedule of proven performers, from our lineup of DC superheroes, to critically acclaimed comedies, to sci-fi dramas,” said Pedowitz. “Early pickups of these seven series now allow our producers to plan ahead for next season, and gives us a solid base to build on for next season, with original scripted series to roll out all year long.” The series being ordered for the 2017-2018 season include ARROW (Season 6), CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND (Season 3), DC’s LEGENDS OF TOMORROW (Season 3), THE FLASH (Season 4), JANE THE VIRGIN (Season 4), SUPERGIRL (Season 3), and SUPERNATURAL (Season 13). Specific premiere dates for each series will be announced at a later time.
If you have ever rented a room then this
movie will hit home. Our story starts off with a older couple being questioned
by the police, we are introduced to Henry (Christopher Craig) and Josephine
(Antonia Davies) Baker. They are explaining that a younger couple had rented a
room from them but had just left pretty much in the middle of the night. The
detectives seem to believe them and leave. Now enters Mark (Michael Lieber) and
Jill (Loren Peta), a young couple in need of a room to rent. I'm starting to
see a pattern. ‘A Room to Die for’ is directed by Devanand Shanmugam. This is
his second time directing and its pretty good for an unseasoned director. All
the actors deliver top notch performances.
The Bakers put up another add to rent out
the spare room they have and Mark and Jill answer. Mark is a standup comedian
and Henry right from the start gives him crap for it, saying it’s not a real
job and how could a real man let his girl go out into the work force and stay
at home. So there is that tension brewing and Jill starts to resent Mark as he
does not work very much and only complains about Henry. The Bakers also have a
baby that you don' see but is heard crying through the house. The Bakers true
intentions come around slowly and the true horrors of this house are revealed. It’s
refreshing that a director can make a movie that does scare and disturb and
does not rely on big time special effect.
As with all of my reviews of films for The Creepercast, I fully recommend that you check each and every one of them out. I am one man and this is my opinion. I've seen plenty of movies that received reviews that were the complete opposite of how I saw the film. These writers, directors, producers and actors all put a lot of time and love into these projects. They deserve to be seen and appreciated for what they are. Everyone has a dream and I fully support the people that take the time to make theirs a reality. With that being said....
Sometimes, a movie won't garner enough inspiration to write a full review. Rather than mince words and spend a lot of time digging for words and content to explain what I saw on the screen, it's easier just to make it short and sweet. Hit the high points and leave you, the reader, with the opportunity to make a snap decision on whether or not it's really worth your time. This movie was a prime example of that.
The first time that I heard about this entry in the found footage genre, I thought it was a joke. Strictly created for the name alone. It sounded like some kind of spoof or parody film. As time went on and I realized that it was a real, honest to goodness horror film, I became a bit more interested in checking it out. Then came the reviews. So many negative reviews. It seemed like everyone walked in with an expectation for something completely different than they got. I didn't know why so many people felt cheated and being a fan of the genre, it actually increased my interest in seeing it. Because of that, I tried to stay away from too many reviews, so I could eventually watch it with an unbiased pair of eyes. Then it became a waiting game. I wanted to let the hype die down and watch it in my own time. Last night, was that time....
From the beginning of the movie, you can tell that you're in for something completely different than you've seen before. It's one of the new crop of films taking an approach to movie making that uses modern technology to create something unique. Similar to the use of GoPro cameras to make first person story lines. This one utilizes Skype, Facebook, YouTube, Gmail and other web based applications, to learn about the suicide of Laura Barns, a teenager who kills herself after being bullied by all of her classmates. One by one, our 5 main characters die off, seemingly by their own hands. As the body count rises, so does the suspicions as to who may have been the one to post the original video that started off the whole chain of events. What sets this apart from your typical narrative is that in 'Unfriended', we see the entire story play out from the perspective of our main character, using her laptop screen. I think this is the main reason it lost the audience and caused so much of a negative backlash. Even in found footage films, there's a formula that's we've become familiar with and that people expect to see. This one took that in an entirely different direction and left people feeling alienated and confused. I, however, felt that this gave a fresh coat of paint on a subgenre that was in dire need of a remodel. That doesn't give it a pass though and style over substance is never a good idea.
Once again, Hollywood felt that it knew best, in terms of what horror fans were in need of. It started out with such promise and made me believe that maybe all the criticism was unwarranted. In the end, it fell back on the same old, tired and worn out cliches. The deaths got more and more silly as the movie went on and in the end, all the characters were so unlikable that you didn't even love to hate them. You just kind of felt like they were the kids you never really liked in the first place. Not too mention that, Laura Barns herself, was not all that likable. There was no one to root for. No one to represent us, the viewer. In the end, it felt like a mispent night on Chatroulette, but with a killer ghost at the end. I wish that this one had proven all the reviewers wrong. That it had just been misunderstood. Sadly, it didn't. 'Unfriended' was a good idea gone bad. A high concept horror movie, that took more than it gave. If you want to give it a shot, go for it, but keep your expectations low. Maybe it'll end up being more than a 2 out of 5 star movie for you, but for me.... I'm going to have to unfriend it. I'm probably going to block it too.
If you'd rather watch some decent found footage films, check out: 'Creep', 'V/H/S' or 'The Sacrament'
As with all of my reviews of films for The Creepercast, I fully recommend that you check each and every one of them out. I am one man and this is my opinion. I've seen plenty of movies that received reviews that were the complete opposite of how I saw the film. These writers, directors, producers and actors all put a lot of time and love into these projects. They deserve to be seen and appreciated for what they are. Everyone has a dream and I fully support the people that take the time to make theirs a reality. With that being said....
Ever since the advent of Netflix and other streaming services, I've never been one to be a binge watcher. I prefer to savor my shows, just like a good meal. Knowing full well that all good things will come to an end, at some point. People seem to be confused by my desire and ability to take things slowly, but once you've rushed through something, you can't just make the next season appear right away. Why put yourself through several hours of pure enjoyment, only to be let down at the end? I've also, in the past couple of years, kind of become 'turned off' to anything episodic on television or otherwise. I've become a full time film watcher and even though I enjoy a lot of things on TV and streaming services right now, I have a hard time getting into the same formulaic mold of ongoing series. It seems kind of backwards to feel that way, considering my love of franchises and long running shows like 'Doctor Who'.... but here we are. However, I found myself home sick on Monday and have been intrigued by a new series that everyone kept recommending to me, saying it was “My kind of show!”. So, having nothing else to do, but lay on the couch, I started watching the first episode of 'Santa Clarita Diet'. That was the best thing and the worst thing I've done in a long time. Why? Because I binge watched the entire series in one day and am now longing for season 2!
Without giving away any major plot points, as this is a brand new series on Netflix, I'll try and rough out the basic story line for you. 'Santa Clarita Diet' tells the story of two real estate agents, Joel and Shelia Hammond, played by the amazing Timothy Olyphant and Drew Barrymore (both 'Scream' alumni). They live a VERY normal and hum drum life, complete with a teenage daughter, played by Liv Hewson and two neighboring families on either side. One sheriff and one police officer, complete with wives and kids in tow. We quickly get a sense of how mediocre and hum drum their lives are, before something strange happens at one of the Hammonds open houses. Shelia begins vomiting and ungodly amount and that's where the show really begins. From that point forward, no ones life will ever be the same again, as things spiral out of control in the best and worst way possible. That's really all I can say, without ruining what could be one of the most surprising horror/comedy hits since 'Ash vs Evil Dead'.
There is so much to love about this show. It's not only for horror fans, but it also has something for the gore hounds, normal folk and everyone in between. It takes the modern day sitcom and turns it upside down. All the while, sending a positive message about what it means to be a family and how you can't judge a book by it's cover. No matter what that cover depicts. Not unlike the show itself, this is not anything like you be be expecting. I went into it not knowing anything more than the title of the show and that it was, apparently, created just for me. Complete with a main character with my same first name. Over the course of the season, things do tend to get a little bogged down with the old school cliches that are bound to happen with an ongoing series. This is partially the reason why I kind of stopped watching regular TV. Because, at some point, all shows have to follow a certain pattern, in order to keep the show moving forward. It's not a bad thing. It's just one of the pitfalls of creating something that doesn't wrap itself up in an hour and a half run time. Regardless of that, the show has laugh out loud moments, revelations that are unexpected and very heartfelt exchanges between the main characters. Created by Victor Fresco, the man behind 'Better Off Ted', he's get a wry sense of storytelling and humor that works well within Netflix's free form format. If you have a day to sit and binge watch or a week to take it in stride, 'Santa Clarita Diet' is well worth your time.
By the time the final episode was coming to a close, I was hooked. It left the viewer with an open ended invite to come back for season 2, to find out what happens with our hapless real estate agents. Each episode runs approximately a half an hour in length and can be viewed in one sitting, with very little effort. While, I don't recommend watching it the way I did, (Yes, I'm still anti-binge watching) I still recommend watching it as soon as you can. Don't let the internet and water cooler conversations ruin the surprise for you. Stay away from the trailer and just jump in, feet first. 'Santa Clarita Diet' earns a very hearty 4 out of 5 stars and a near pitch perfect start to, what I hope, is at least a 3 season run. Check it out now! Available to stream on Netflix exclusively.
If you like what you see, check out: 'Ash vs Evil Dead', 'Cabin in the Woods' and 'Tucker and Dale vs Evil'
Twenty-five years after members of a religious cult committed mass suicide, the lone survivor returns to the scene of the tragedy with a documentary crew in tow.
Director: Phil Joanou; Writer: Robert Ben Garant (screenplay; Stars: Jessica Alba, Lily Rabe, Thomas Jane
Director Phil Joanou has had some early success in film making starting with the the band U2's hugely successful Rattle and Hum video. He went on to direct irish mob film State of Grace with Sean Penn, Ed Harris, and Gary Oldman, and even directed Richard Gere and Dwayne Johnson in mildly successful films. So what exactly brought him to his first foray into horror is hard to determine. I wouldn't say its a down hill project given Thomas Jane and Jessica Alba's involvement. Also, as far as cult/ghost movies, its a pretty fresh concept. Then of course we add a screenplay by Garant, best known for his comedic role as Deputy Travis Junior in Reno 911 and writing credits that include Night at the Museum, you can't help but be confused at tis unlikely combination of experiences presenting a horror film. Fortunately we've learned that a comedians involvement in horror has often lead to decent films. There's obviously something about this pairing that attracted Jason Blum and given that endorsement alone we at the Creepercast are likely to dive into it without many questions. We usually discovery Blumhouse runs a 60/40 record on quality horror and The Veil is definitely one of those that snuck in on the side of 60.
As far as cult movies go, The Veil is fairly unique. The usual expectations are met as everything starts out looking believable and understandable. Jane's Jim preaches of love and acceptance. Than it starts to go crazy as we learn that Heaven's Veil is that space between life and death, which Jim is planning on conquering while taking everyone else with him. This is conveyed to us via found footage videos of the experiments viewed in present day by the documentary crew that is visiting the old compound with the only survivor of the mass suicide. Jessica Alba is mediocre as the leader of the documentary which is all that can be expected these days. As the weird stuff and possessions happen, driving the film to its inevitable conclusion, the lesson becomes more about misunderstanding and revenge. The Veil is a little slow to get to the point with all its build up through Jane's influence to insanity. But Jane is only reason to keep you riveted on whats happening. Without him its likely the entire story would collapse. The twist to the end almost took this reviewer out of the film. Give thanks again to Jane's performance and the uniqueness of the story.
Interesting trivia to consider while watching... originally, the film was supposed to be found footage. When the team felt found footage had run its course, Robert Ben Garant re-wrote his script to make it more traditional. We are thankful they made this decision. Also, Jane rewrote most of his character's dialog to convert him from a fundamentalist Christian to an occultist. This works in so many ways as Jane seems to be channeling Jim Jones and David Koresh, with elements of the rock star Charles Manson.
Available now on all platforms perhaps even Netflix.
