"It Follows" If You Have Promiscuous Sex!

“It Follows” has become the most talked about horror film of the season thanks to rave reviews and a ridiculous amount of press from not only genre outlets but mainstream ones as well. With so much hype surrounding it, I deemed it necessary to drop everything and see it as soon as possible. As I left the theater, I couldn’t shake the feeling that while what I saw was both engaging and thought-provoking it still somehow missed the mark of true terror.

In “It Follows,” a teenager (Maika Monroe) has disturbing visions following a strange sexual encounter. She has the inescapable feeling that someone -- or something -- is after her.

I couldn’t help but be intrigued with the premise of what has now become a juggernaut of a horror film. As a Christian who promotes sexual abstinence before marriage, the concept of “It Follows” caught my attention right away. It’s like taking one of the most important “rules” of slasher films and really pounding it home.

“If you have sex, you’re going to die!”

Several viewers will take “It Follows” as a metaphor for the endless spreading of the AIDS virus through unprotected sex. Others might look at it as a warning that premarital sex never ends well. There’s always emotional baggage we’re left with after the experience. Either way, there’s a lesson to be learned whether it was intentional or not.

Is “It Follows” actually THAT scary like everyone else says it is? Not really. Is there an ever-present sense of dread and gloom? I would say so. The main problem with the film is that you’re expecting some over-the-top controversial ending thanks to all the hype the media is throwing at us. Sadly, I think most people will find the conclusion unsatisfying.

Another issue I had with “It Follows” is the way the horror is taken out of the lead character’s head. At first, only she can see the evil coming for her and that provides a certain personal or first-person psychological appeal to the film. Once the “entity” manifests itself to the others like a poltergeist, you start to feel as if you’re just watching another typical supernatural thriller. The novelty of the whole concept just wears off during those segments.

The movie is rated R for disturbing violent and sexual content including graphic nudity, and language. There was definitely way more nudity than there needed to be in order to get the point across. It’s not sensual nudity, either. There’s nothing attractive or stimulating at the flesh we see flash across the screen. The violence is gory and includes a few head shots and blood splatters.

“It Follows” succeeds in its suspenseful set-up and establishment of an atmosphere of dread and panic. Unfortunately, it fails to deliver any real closure at its conclusion. Some will find this fitting, where others will leave the theater unfulfilled. I was caught somewhere in the middle of dissatisfaction and contentment. Although I enjoyed the basic premise and the unique blend of 1970s and 1980s nostalgia with present day technology, I was left wanting more in the horror department.

"It Follows" If You Have Promiscuous Sex!

“It Follows” has become the most talked about horror film of the season thanks to rave reviews and a ridiculous amount of press from not only genre outlets but mainstream ones as well. With so much hype surrounding it, I deemed it necessary to drop everything and see it as soon as possible. As I left the theater, I couldn’t shake the feeling that while what I saw was both engaging and thought-provoking it still somehow missed the mark of true terror.

"Something Wicked" Enters Your Home

Arc Entertainment serves up another slice of thrills and chills with the suspense thriller “Something Wicked.” Touted as Brittany Murphy’s last performance, it delivers through deliberate psychological missteps and a lingering dark sense of dread that leaves the viewer wondering if all is what it seems. Although it’s not quite up to par with most theatrical releases, it deserves a status a few notches above the Lifetime and TV-movies category it will no doubt be lumped into.

In “Something Wicked,” a young couple makes their wedding plans shortly after the death of the bride’s parents in a tragic car collision with a train. As they settle into married life, gruesome secrets from their past collide with the present.

“Something Wicked” achieves what all movies should aim for. It gives audiences a distraction from real life for over ninety minutes through a series of ups and downs and loops and sharp turns that any fan of suspense thrillers will enjoy. I had my suspicions of what might happen in the end, but it didn’t affect the level of entertainment I experienced along the journey.

“Something Wicked” is rated R for violence, sexuality, and language. Although there are a few sensual moments that get a little steamier than what we see in made-for-TV movies, that’s really the only thing that would push this into R-rated territory. Things never go overboard in the areas of violence and gore.

Brittany Murphy shows great emotional depth as the tortured sister-in-law of the lead character. She switches from grounded psychologist to a helpless, crazed, and empathetic shell with the sense of professionalism you would only hope for in a much more seasoned actor. I don’t know whether it was for the role or not, but her greasy slick-backed hair and pale features matched her character’s agonized and mentally drained personality.

“Something Wicked” is the equivalent of a Lifetime movie if production and the budget were taken one step further. One or two good twists and a big lie by omission fuel this suspense thriller. A cast who are invested in their characters lends a level of quality to a film that successfully rises above what could have been just another direct-to-DVD casualty. It acts as an acceptable tribute to the late Brittany Murphy, who turns out a fine performance in her last role.

“Something Wicked” is available now on DVD and as a Digital Download.

"Something Wicked" Enters Your Home

Arc Entertainment serves up another slice of thrills and chills with the suspense thriller “Something Wicked.” Touted as Brittany Murphy’s last performance, it delivers through deliberate psychological missteps and a lingering dark sense of dread that leaves the viewer wondering if all is what it seems. Although it’s not quite up to par with most theatrical releases, it deserves a status a few notches above the Lifetime and TV-movies category it will no doubt be lumped into.

"Vice's" Ambyr Childers Talks Pulling a Gun on Bruce Willis, More

Actress Ambyr Childers is quickly making a name for herself in different genres on television and in movies. Since taking her first job in the BBC comedy series "S Club 7 in L.A.," she's moved on to bigger opportunities like a role in the popular long-running American soap "All My Children" and supporting characters in "The Master," "Gangster Squad," "2 Guns," and several others. With "Vice," Childers re-enters the world of science fiction she first dabbled with in the award-winning 2011 independent film "Love."

I had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Childers about her work on "Vice." She shared her experiences working with Bruce Willis and tells readers what to expect from the movie. Childers also expands on her role of Kelly the "Artificial" and takes us behind the scenes of the making of the film.

How did you get involved in “Vice?”

Kelly, my character, pulls a machine gun on Bruce Willis! How cool is that? The opportunity to sprint, fight, and dodge bullets is something you don’t pass up. And I get to do it in tight black leather pants, with knee-high boots. When you get the chance to run in slow-mo dressed like that, with explosions going off all around -- you say, “I’m in.”

Give us a brief synopsis of “Vice.”

It’s set in the near future, where Kelly is an “Artificial.” She’s a machine, genetically cloned to look and act like a human who is used by a resort called Vice where clients live out their illicit fantasies. After being killed in a violent attack, the company reboots her, but something goes wrong: Kelly becomes self-aware and seeks revenge.

Describe your character in “Vice.”

Kelly is model 6126, a feisty pleasure “Artificial” who is programmed to want adventure and freedom from her job as a bartender at the Vice Resort. She also wants to find love. This makes her particularly vulnerable as a target of Vice clients who feel threatened by her independence and strong will. After numerous reboots, she begins to dream and have memories she doesn’t understand. Kelly’s Vice coding is the very thing that makes her run when she has the chance. She’s brave and she’s a survivor even though she doesn’t know she isn’t human. I love that Kelly discovers her humanity in a world that is corrupt and broken.

Tell us a little bit about your experience making “Vice.”

Kelly is very physical. She’s a fighter, so I had to be fit. Even though I’m a petit person, I’m athletic. Choreographed fights with bullets flying around your head, requires concentration and focus. It’s exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. We filmed “Vice” in Mobile, Alabama. Great locations and the people there are super nice. The cast and crew were great. It was tons of fun.

What sort of message (if any) do you think “Vice” is trying to deliver to audiences?

I don’t see “Vice” as a message film. But, through Kelly’s experience, I think “Vice” does ask the question: “What makes us human?” I also like the idea of technology becoming self-aware and how will we use Artificial Intelligence in the future? Technology is changing reality and that affects human behavior. “Vice” has interesting themes that are addressed and played out in a way that only science fiction can do.

If you were in line at the movies and someone was trying to choose between “Vice” and the other latest ones, how would you convince them to see it?

I’d say, “How do you know you’re really human and not a cloned cyborg?”

"Vice" is available on Blu-ray, DVD, and as a Digital Download.

"Vice's" Ambyr Childers Talks Pulling a Gun on Bruce Willis, More

Actress Ambyr Childers is quickly making a name for herself in different genres on television and in movies. Since taking her first job in the BBC comedy series "S Club 7 in L.A.," she's moved on to bigger opportunities like a role in the popular long-running American soap "All My Children" and supporting characters in "The Master," "Gangster Squad," "2 Guns," and several others. With "Vice," Childers re-enters the world of science fiction she first dabbled with in the award-winning 2011 independent film "Love."

I had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Childers about her work on "Vice." She shared her experiences working with Bruce Willis and tells readers what to expect from the movie. Childers also expands on her role of Kelly the "Artificial" and takes us behind the scenes of the making of the film.

Writer / Director Lowell Dean Introduces Us to "WolfCop"

Writer / Director Lowell Dean has a varied roster of television shows and movies he’s helmed since his career kicked off in 2006. Not content to simply stay within one genre, he’s used his talents on everything from reality and documentary series to horror films. “Wolfcop” is his latest release and it will please fans that are always up for some gore and horrifyingly ridiculous fun.

I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Dean about his time making “Wolfcop.” He shared what viewers can expect from the film and the challenges faced when creating a sophisticated piece of independent cinema. Even though it’s his written word, I’m pretty sure his sense of humor will resonate through this interview.

How did you get involved in “WolfCop?”

The idea for WolfCop popped into my brain when I was working on a different script. The character was so funny, weird, and cool that I immediately dropped everything and worked on that script instead.

Give us a brief synopsis of “WolfCop.”

“WolfCop” is the story of pathetic, hard drinking cop Lou Garou. Lou is wasting away his life in the (seemingly simple) small town when something happens that changes him forever. Spoiler alert: he becomes a WolfCop, and must use his newfound powers for justice and to protect his town.

Tell us a little bit about your experience making “WolfCop.”

“WolfCop” was a crazy film to make; much like any independent film is no doubt a challenge as you are constantly fighting for more time and more money. For us we also had to fight things like bad weather as we were shooting in Saskatchewan. However, it was also great fun because we had a WolfCop on our set and no shortage of day to day weirdness.

What sort of message (if any) do you think “Wolfcop” is trying to deliver to audiences?

That’s a tough question. I think the true message of “WolfCop” is it’s never too late to be a better WolfCop… or crime doesn’t pay.

If you were in line at the movies and someone was trying to choose between “Wolfcop” and the other latest ones, how would you convince them to see your film?

I feel like people already know, in their heart, if they want to see “WolfCop.” If they were on the fence, I would let them know that what our film may lack in budget or big Hollywood stars, it more than makes up for with weirdness, gore, sex appeal, and a few things you can never ever unsee.

“WolfCop” is available now on Blu-ray, DVD, and as a Digital Download.

Writer / Director Lowell Dean Introduces Us to "WolfCop"

Writer / Director Lowell Dean has a varied roster of television shows and movies he’s helmed since his career kicked off in 2006. Not content to simply stay within one genre, he’s used his talents on everything from reality and documentary series to horror films. “Wolfcop” is his latest release and it will please fans that are always up for some gore and horrifyingly ridiculous fun.

I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Dean about his time making “Wolfcop.” He shared what viewers can expect from the film and the challenges faced when creating a sophisticated piece of independent cinema. Even though it’s his written word, I’m pretty sure his sense of humor will resonate through this interview.

Scream Factory Resurrects "Blacula" and Its Sequel for Blu-ray

Scream Factory performs its magic again by reviving not one but two cult classics from the grave. Blaxploitation gems “Blacula” and “Scream, Blacula, Scream” get the high-definition treatment in this must-have double feature. However, I can’t imagine the release won’t face some controversy based on some of its “dated” content.

In “Blacula,” an African prince (William Marshall) gets turned into a vampire by Count Dracula (Charles McCauley) during a visit to Transylvania. Sealed in a coffin for several lifetimes, Blacula reawakens in 1970s Los Angeles. Leaving a trail of bloodless victims in his wake, he pursues Lina (Vonetta McGee), a woman who bears a striking resemblance to his dead wife. Meanwhile, Dr. Gordon Thomas (Thalmus Rasulala) and top cop Lt. Peters (Gordon Pinsent) are hot on the bloodsucker's trail.

“Scream, Blacula, Scream” follows up the original when a hated rival, Lisa Fortier (Pam Grier), is chosen to lead the voodoo cult of Willis Daniels' (Richard Lawson) late mother. A vengeful Willis brings the doomed vampire Prince Mamuwalde (William Marshall) back to life. Willis soon finds the vampire too powerful to control, and Lisa agrees to perform a spell that will break the curse placed on the prince. But, when racist sheriff Dunlop (Michael Conrad) gets involved, the vampire unleashes his deadly revenge.

I really enjoyed both “Blacula” and “Scream, Blacula, Scream.” There were many instances where I was left with my jaw on the ground because of what many will find racist and unacceptable in today’s diverse society. Uses of the “N” word to describe African Americans and the “F” word to label homosexuals flew out of characters’ mouths like they were just part of casual conversation.

The use of voodoo chants and rituals in “Scream, Blacula, Scream” might keep some religious folks from taking the movie in. “Blacula” really is just a remake of “Dracula” with African Americans in a contemporary 1970s setting. I found both films to hold a certain passion and striving to be taken seriously in the world of horror. Amongst all the jive-talking is some really intense and scary sequences accomplished by some great camerawork and pacing.

“Blacula” and “Scream, Blacula, Scream” are both rated PG for violence, gore, adult situations, drinking, smoking, references to drug use, and some intense scenes of horror. There’s no nudity but quite a bit of language and stereotypical terms that would be considered unacceptable today. The violence and gore is of the vampire type and not very graphic.

The “Blacula / Scream, Blacula, Scream” Double Feature has some interesting bonus material. Audio commentary is provided by Author / Film Historian / Filmmaker David F. Walker (“Reflections on Blaxploitation: Actors and Directors Speak”). A new interview with Actor Richard Lawson (“Scream, Blacula, Scream”) is found. Theatrical trailers are included as well.

I’ve never really dived head-on into the genre, but if there were a “King of Blaxploitation Films” it would have to be “Blacula.” Its right-hand man would have to be “Scream, Blacula, Scream.” I’ve never witnessed anything so politically incorrect by today’s standards, yet so awkwardly fun, in my entire life. Somehow, they’re also fueled with social and racial commentary that speaks for the African American of the 1970s. Blacula’s plight was put upon him by the evil white Dracula. By the second film, all he wants is to be free from his bloodlust. However, he always strives to be a champion of his race.

The “Blacula / Scream, Blacula, Scream” Double Feature is available now on Blu-ray.

Scream Factory Resurrects "Blacula" and Its Sequel for Blu-ray

Scream Factory performs its magic again by reviving not one but two cult classics from the grave. Blaxploitation gems “Blacula” and “Scream, Blacula, Scream” get the high-definition treatment in this must-have double feature. However, I can’t imagine the release won’t face some controversy based on some of its “dated” content.

Batgirl Goes Up Against a City Full of Jokers

Batgirl: Endgame #1 is a unique little one-shot brought to us by the folks at DC Comics. Although Cameron Stewart and Brendan Fletcher are credited with writing the story, their actual work is only represented by one word bubble which contains “Phew” and some “HaHa’s” floating in the city air. It’s 20 pages of Bengal’s artwork telling the tale in gorgeously colored illustrations.

In Batgirl: Endgame #1, there’s a mob of Jokerized madmen in Gotham City. They’re determined to spread the virus into the world beyond. The crazed crowd is going to have to get past Batgirl first!

Entitled “The Battle for Burnside,” the one-shot is a fine example of the art of telling a story through the use of images and not narrative. It makes for a contemporary and youthful experience by using cell phone emoticons, computers, signage, and texting. The whole book is a reflection of how tied to visual imagery the kids of today and even us have become.

Batgirl: Endgame #1 is rated T for Teen. There’s some comic book violence and disturbing scenes. Children are in peril, which could scare younger readers. Obviously with no actual dialogue, there’s no profanity.

I was very impressed with everything about Batgirl: Endgame #1. It was a breath of fresh air and something new to enjoy. I know comic books without words have existed before, but it’s been a while since I’ve seen the concept utilized. Bengal’s artwork is the icing on the cake for what I find one of the more enjoyable monthly titles coming out of DC Comics right now.

Batgirl: Endgame #1 is available now in print and Kindle editions.

Batgirl Goes Up Against a City Full of Jokers

Batgirl: Endgame #1 is a unique little one-shot brought to us by the folks at DC Comics. Although Cameron Stewart and Brendan Fletcher are credited with writing the story, their actual work is only represented by one word bubble which contains “Phew” and some “HaHa’s” floating in the city air. It’s 20 pages of Bengal’s artwork telling the tale in gorgeously colored illustrations.

Director / Writer Petr Jakl Talks About Supernatural Horror "Ghoul"

Petr Jakl has come a long way from his roots in Prague, Czechoslovakia. He started out with roles in foreign films in the late 1990s and early 2000s and quickly found a spot in Hollywood playing supporting characters in movies like “xXx” and “AVP: Alien vs. Predator.” Not content to stay in front of the camera, Jakl has now written and directed two of his own projects. The latest one, “Ghoul,” is hitting select theaters on March 20th.

I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Jakl while he was busy promoting the film. We talked about the rich history, superstitions, the supernatural leanings of the Ukrainian people, and more about the background of the movie “Ghoul.” Read on to climb inside the head of this up and coming director, writer, producer, and actor.

How did you get involved in “Ghoul?”

My first movie was a thriller called “Kajinek,” inspired by the true story of the most famous Czech prisoner. It was number one at the Box Office for seven weeks with the highest opening weekend of a Czech movie in the history of the Czech Republic. The success of the movie was also because it was a politically driven story about corruption in Czech and people were afraid to talk about it before. So the movie was a reason to start.

A month after the premiere in 2010 we went with “Kajinek” to the Ukraine to a festival. I had a chance to speak to some villagers and all of them mentioned famine in 1932 and the cannibal Chikatilo. It was very interesting because they spoke about cannibalism like it was something that was part of their life. I started to investigate more about it and I found more connection between the famine and Chikatilo. I also like the Ukrainian habits and how they believe in psychics, they are superstitious, and a lot of the people there also believe in supernatural forces. I decided to use those as much as possible and blur the lines between reality and fiction. Nobody will be sure what is real and what is not. That’s why I bought the real footage of the cannibal Chikatilo. That´s why I shot a real documentary with survivors of the famine that is used in the movie. I also shot the movie on the real locations where these horrible things happened and where Chikatilo was born.

Give us a brief synopsis of “Ghoul.”

“Ghoul” is a supernatural horror and also partly a thriller film involving the real life story of the Soviet Union’s most violent serial killer and cannibal. Andrei Chikatilo killed more than fifty people. Three Americans travel to the Ukraine to film a documentary about the cannibalism epidemic that swept through the country during the famine of 1932. They have chosen an area from which many more people are disappearing for no apparent reason. After being lured deep into the Ukraine forest for an interview with one of the last known famine survivors, they quickly find themselves trapped in a supernatural hunting ground.

Tell us a little bit about your experience making “Ghoul.”

I wanted to find actors who were not well known, but they had to be great. That´s why I did the casting in seven countries for almost six months. I had one actress from London, two actors from LA, and the others were Ukrainians. When the actors from California got to Kiev, they were pretty scared right from the beginning because they knew that we were going to shoot in real locations where people were killed. We had to go to the frontier zone between Russia and the Ukraine every day. Border police told us not to go alone to a forest because there are wolves and bears and that we should avoid speaking to strangers there and such. We had mostly night shoots in the forest. Some situations were really scary during the shooting because we thought that somebody was watching and we could not get rid of that feeling. I think it also helped to build a real atmosphere for the movie and it was a part of my plan.

What sort of message (if any) do you think “Ghoul” is trying to deliver to audiences?

I have to mention that we started to shoot “Ghoul” in 2011 before the Ukrainian Revolution and before “the conflict” between Russians and the Ukrainians began. There was no political reason to show a Ukrainian cannibal eating people and his connection with the famine caused by Soviet Union leader Josef Stalin. I just wanted to make the movie so real that people would feel like they are in the Ukraine in danger. That’s also why I interviewed real people and let them say what happened. Their stories about cannibalism are extremely horrifying because they are true.

If you were in line at the movies and someone was trying to choose between “Ghoul” and the other movies playing, how would you convince them to see yours?

I would say, “Would you be scared if you were in a cottage in the middle of a forest far from any civilization and Charles Manson or Jeffrey Dahmer would be outside watching you?” That’s how you will feel when you watch “Ghoul.” The two of them together are not as brutal and dangerous as Ukrainian cannibal Chikatilo. He killed and mutilated more than fifty people and he ate their parts. He was extremely brutal so people nicknamed him the Red Ripper. When you watch the movie you will be surprised who is really out there waiting to get you!

“Ghoul” haunts select theaters throughout the U.S. beginning on March 20th.

Director / Writer Petr Jakl Talks About Supernatural Horror "Ghoul"

Petr Jakl has come a long way from his roots in Prague, Czechoslovakia. He started out with roles in foreign films in the late 1990s and early 2000s and quickly found a spot in Hollywood playing supporting characters in movies like “xXx” and “AVP: Alien vs. Predator.” Not content to stay in front of the camera, Jakl has now written and directed two of his own projects. The latest one, “Ghoul,” is hitting select theaters on March 20th.

I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Jakl while he was busy promoting the film. We talked about the rich history, superstitions, the supernatural leanings of the Ukrainian people, and more about the background of the movie “Ghoul.” Read on to climb inside the head of this up and coming director, writer, producer, and actor.

Where's the Anarky We're Promised in DC: Endgame #1?

DC Comics gives fans another one-shot prequel to their current Batman event through Detective Comics: Endgame. There’s no denying the cover of the issue featuring a figure wearing an Anarky mask with a smile painted on it is eye-catching. However, many will be disappointed as to what they’ll get on the inside of a book holding the subtitle “Anarky is No Joke!”

In Detective Comics: Endgame #1, the city is overrun by Jokerized victims, but a small band of teenagers unites to take a stand. Their secret knowledge of Gotham City’s streets helps them survive, but will Batman take help from this young group of upstarts? And what could it mean for the future of the young heroes in Gotham City?

Writer Brian Buccellato seems less than enthusiastic about giving readers anything too important or memorable when it comes to what happens before Endgame. I’m not sure anyone will gain anything they need or want from this one-shot. The artwork by Roge Antonio and Ronan Cliquet is highlighted by a full-page spread of a young vigilante team heading into battle donning Anarky masks with red smiles painted on them.

The one-shot comic is rated T for Teens. Detective Comics: Endgame #1 features violence and frightening and intense scenes. There’s nothing here except the usual comic book smackdowns and fist fights. Some of the action takes place at a strip club, but nothing sensual is shown.

Detective Comics: Endgame #1 really has little to get excited about. Batman is nowhere to be found amongst all the action as Batwoman, Batgirl, and Red Robin do battle with a crowd of Joker’s poisoned victims. An insinuated appearance by Anarky doesn’t even come to fruition, unless you’re satisfied with a full page spread and two panels of individuals wearing the white masks with a painted-on smile. I found the issue rather anticlimactic after the false hope we’re given by such a striking cover.

Detective Comics: Endgame #1 is available now in print and Kindle editions.

Where's the Anarky We're Promised in DC: Endgame #1?

DC Comics gives fans another one-shot prequel to their current Batman event through Detective Comics: Endgame. There’s no denying the cover of the issue featuring a figure wearing an Anarky mask with a smile painted on it is eye-catching. However, many will be disappointed as to what they’ll get on the inside of a book holding the subtitle “Anarky is No Joke!”

Ridley Scott's Soulless "Exodus: Gods and Kings" Disappoints

I’m not entirely sure if Ridley Scott even read the story of Moses and the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt found in the Holy Bible before agreeing to climb behind the camera and direct “Exodus: Gods and Kings.” Here we have an extremely fallible attempt at re-visiting what Cecil B. DeMille already perfected twice in two different decades with “The Ten Commandments.” While those movies still took artistic freedoms, they were one hundred times more close to the source material than what we see here.

In "Exodus: Gods and Kings," Egyptian Princes Moses (Christian Bale) and Ramses (Joel Edgerton) are raised together as brothers. When Ramses becomes pharaoh, Moses is his most-trusted adviser. However Moses soon discovers his Hebrew parentage, and Ramses banishes him to the desert -- often a death sentence. But God has a mission for Moses: Free the Israelites from slavery. Moses returns from exile and demands that Ramses let his people go, but the arrogant ruler is unmoved, leading to a battle of divine wills.

I can’t believe it took four writers to completely desecrate and butcher what many would consider one of the most vital stories found in the Bible. Even if you consider the Holy Bible just to be another great piece of literature, “Exodus: Gods and Kings” is a terrible adaptation for the big-screen of what many believe is a cornerstone of their faith and some respect as great fantasy. If Ridley Scott were Chris Columbus, this is his “Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” versus “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” as far as imprecise and exact book adaptations go, respectively.

The acting in “Exodus: Gods and Kings” is all over the place in regards to performances. Christian Bale is completely wasted as Moses. He walks and stands around most of the film acting like a helpless bystander. Every once in a while he’ll lead a revolt against the Egyptians, but for the most part he just observes God’s spiteful punishment from afar.

John Turturro plays the King of Egypt and does his very best in the dramatic role. However, the entire time I watched him onscreen I kept waiting for him to exclaim, “I’m very sneaky” in a weird accent. Joel Edgerton’s performance as the Pharaoh Ramses II shows he has the acting chops to take on better big-budget productions than this tripe. Sigourney Weaver floats through her fleeting appearances in the movie as if she’s doing Ridley Scott a favor portraying the Queen of Egypt.

I won’t deny it was cool seeing the plagues come to life through the use of modern CGI. The alligators ravenously devouring the fisherman and turning the Nile red with their blood is a fun scene to watch. It was also an impressive sight to see all the frogs and locusts invading Egypt and wreaking havoc. The parting of the Red Sea was a bit of a visual disappointment, however. The primitive visual effects from 1956’s “The Ten Commandments” were more stunning than what we got in “Exodus: Gods and Kings.”

“Exodus: Gods and Kings” is rated PG-13 for violence including battle sequences and intense images. There are some gory scenes of Egyptians being eaten by alligators and animals throwing up blood. We also see the lifeless bodies of Egyptian children as their parents cry in agony over their deaths, which will be disturbing to some.

A few special features are found on the DVD version of “Exodus: Gods and Kings.” A featurette entitled “'Exodus: Gods and Kings’ – Ridley’s Epic World” goes behind the scenes of the film. Deleted scenes and trailers are also included.

“Exodus: Gods and Kings” completely belittles its reluctant hero and makes him nothing more than a raving mad bystander instead of the obedient instrument of God’s just rule. On top of that, the once powerful God is whittled down to a spoiled child who is arrogant and prone to venomous temper tantrums. The supernatural plagues found in the scriptures are reduced to natural disasters for the most part, easily explained away by convenient scientific theory. When it’s all said and done, the entire production is nothing more than a soulless and humanistic attempt at rehashing Cecil B. DeMille’s original masterpiece “The Ten Commandments.”

“Exodus: Gods and Kings” is available now on Blu-ray, DVD, and as a Digital Download.

Ridley Scott's Soulless "Exodus: Gods and Kings" Disappoints

I’m not entirely sure if Ridley Scott even read the story of Moses and the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt found in the Holy Bible before agreeing to climb behind the camera and direct “Exodus: Gods and Kings.” Here we have an extremely fallible attempt at re-visiting what Cecil B. DeMille already perfected twice in two different decades with “The Ten Commandments.” While those movies still took artistic freedoms, they were one hundred times more close to the source material than what we see here.

Tim Ogletree Talks About Life Among "The Walking Deceased"

Actor / writer Tim Ogletree is fairly new in the world of filmmaking. He kicked off his career in 2010 as an office production assistant for the movie “Hesher.” Ogletree then moved into a starring role in the spoof movie “Supernatural Activity.” He decided to get even more involved in his latest venture, “The Walking Deceased,” by producing, writing, and taking a role in front of the camera.

I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Ogletree about his latest project, “The Walking Deceased.” With zombies all the rage right now, the timing couldn’t be more perfect for a film lampooning the lumbering undead. Read on to see what to expect if you take the opportunity to sit down and watch this horror / comedy.

How did you get involved in “The Walking Deceased?”

I’ve actually been involved from the conception. Derek Nixon, our rock star of a producer, came to me with the idea of doing a parody of the zombie genre. Honestly, at first I was hesitant. We had just done a found-footage spoof movie and I didn’t want to get pigeon-holed as a “spoofer.” Derek convinced me that this was an opportunity to be the first to market with a zombie parody revolving around the most popular show on TV, “The Walking Dead.” There have been great zombie comedies in the last few years, most especially “Shaun of the Dead” and “Zombieland,” but not one that encompassed all of zombie pop culture. I thought of it as a chance to change the face of the parody / spoof genre; to turn it from the eye-rolling genre that it has become back to the clever, smart humor that Mel Brooks was the king of. So I wrote the script, Derek and I formed the production LLC, and it went from there.

Give us a brief synopsis of “The Walking Deceased.”

“The Walking Deceased” is essentially what would happen if the archetypical characters from every major zombie screen-story came together to survive the zombie apocalypse. A brain-damaged Sheriff wakes up to the world literally rotting, finds his grown-up-too-fast 12-year-old son and hooks up with a squabbling group of survivors sheltered in the tattered local mall. Once the safety of the mall is compromised by a horde of zombies unwittingly led there by a healing zombie who’s chasing love, they go in search of a rumored safe haven and find that it may or may not be as welcoming as advertised.

Describe your character in “The Walking Deceased.”

I play Green Bay, who is perhaps the least-equipped person to ever survive the zombie apocalypse. The dude couldn’t even shoot himself in the foot, his aim sucks so badly. He, along with his survivor friends at the mall, inexplicably goes by the names of their favorite cities since that makes sense. Identities are stolen all the time in the apocalypse… and I would definitely respond if someone yelled a random city name to warn me of an impending walker attack… yeah.

Tell us a little bit about your experience making “The Walking Deceased.”

I literally had the time of my life making this. First of all, I got to work with my little brother, Troy. He played Romeo, the warm-bodied zombie. That was an awesome experience. I also went to school with a few other members of the team, including our director, Scott Dow. He was also my roommate a few years ago. Basically, I got to make a movie with all of my best friends in my home town with a script I wrote. I couldn’t ask for anything better.

What sort of message (if any) do you think “The Walking Deceased” is trying to deliver to audiences?

Above all, I want it to make people laugh with smart humor that you can watch multiple times and always catch something new or a joke you missed or didn’t get the first time around. I want to show people that even if you’re the dumbest person ever who repeatedly makes the most illogical decisions possible, you can survive the zombie apocalypse if you surround yourself with people who are even marginally smarter than you… or at least live long enough to be missed by an audience.

If you were in line at the movies and someone was trying to choose between “The Walking Deceased” and the other latest releases, how would you convince them to see it?

Take their daughter hostage and tell them the only way they will see her again is if they spend an hour and a half laughing or call Liam Neeson to get her back for the fourteenth time. If they don’t have a daughter, tell them they could support and laugh at an indie comedy trying to redefine a genre or pop another Hamilton into the pocket of a studio that only pumps out sequels and bloated adaptations of overrated best-sellers.

“The Walking Deceased” is available for pre-order now on DVD. It is releasing in select theaters, on VOD and iTunes this Friday, March 20th.

Tim Ogletree Talks About Life Among "The Walking Deceased"

Actor / writer Tim Ogletree is fairly new in the world of filmmaking. He kicked off his career in 2010 as an office production assistant for the movie “Hesher.” Ogletree then moved into a starring role in the spoof movie “Supernatural Activity.” He decided to get even more involved in his latest venture, “The Walking Deceased,” by producing, writing, and taking a role in front of the camera.

I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Ogletree about his latest project, “The Walking Deceased.” With zombies all the rage right now, the timing couldn’t be more perfect for a film lampooning the lumbering undead. Read on to see what to expect if you take the opportunity to sit down and watch this horror / comedy.

Game Trilogy Comes to End with Batman: Arkham Knight Prequel

DC Comics brings the video game world of the Caped Crusader to life again in the form of a prequel to Rocksteady’s new Batman: Arkham Knight. Issue #1 hits shelves after being previously only available for online readers. The 40-page book is masterfully written by Peter J. Tomasi with gritty art provided by Viktor Bogdanovic.

In Chapter 1 of the series, entitled “Death of a Rival,” the Joker is dead. Arkham City is closed. As a new day begins, Bruce Wayne finds himself in devastating pain, recovering from his injuries and questioning whether his role as Batman is still necessary to the city’s survival. But as the sun rises in Gotham City, dangerous new threats emerge from the shadows… and the Arkham Knight is just beginning.

Whereas I used to have issues venturing out of the regular continuity of the monthly Detective Comics and Batman titles, I’ve come to appreciate these little jaunts outside of the lines. It’s nice to travel into an alternate universe where anything goes and you can expect the unexpected. Different visions of the same world and characters take readers on new journeys of entertainment.

Batman: Arkham Knight #1 is rated T+ (Teen Plus). The book contains violence and gore and frightening and intense scenes. The art featuring a headshot with blood running from it and the Joker’s body on the autopsy table are just a couple instances where the illustrations might be a bit much for some younger readers.

Even if you don’t play video games, Peter J. Tomasi does a brilliant job of giving you an engaging story full of action and emotion that will make you want to come back for the next issue. Viktor Bogdanovic’s artwork provides the window to Tomasi’s soul in every disturbingly beautiful panel. Batman: Arkham Knight #1 leaves readers wanting more and does a great job showing the complexities Bruce Wayne runs into leading a double life.

Batman: Arkham Knight #1 is available now in print and Kindle editions.

Game Trilogy Comes to End with Batman: Arkham Knight Prequel

DC Comics brings the video game world of the Caped Crusader to life again in the form of a prequel to Rocksteady’s new Batman: Arkham Knight. Issue #1 hits shelves after being previously only available for online readers. The 40-page book is masterfully written by Peter J. Tomasi with gritty art provided by Viktor Bogdanovic.

Dig Into This Pot of Gold Treasures to Watch for St. Patty's Day!

St. Patrick’s Day is another fun holiday to celebrate with a few good movies between gulps of green beverages and hunts for that one person who forgot what day it was and will get your full wrath in one hard pinch. I wanted to take a little time to list a few films which will help you rewind after a hard day at work or at the local Irish pub. These are just a few of my favorites and a couple suggestions that give horror fans and family folks an alternative to the usual fare they’re bombarded with every year around this time.

“Leprechaun”

Dan O'Grady (Shay Duffin) steals 100 gold coins from a leprechaun (Warwick Davis in a role far from his cuddly one as Wicket the Ewok) while on vacation in Ireland. The leprechaun follows him home, but Dan locks the murderous midget in a crate, held at bay by a four-leaf clover. Ten years later, J.D. Redding (John Sanderford) and his daughter, Tory (Jennifer Aniston in one of her first performances), rent O'Grady's property for the summer. When their new neighbors accidentally release the leprechaun, he goes on a murderous rampage to reclaim his gold.

“Leprechaun 4: In Space”

Yes, it is as ridiculous as it sounds! Our little gold-seeking killer visited the stars a good four years before “Friday the 13th’s” Jason Voorhees. Resurfacing on an alien planet, the Leprechaun (Warwick Davis) abducts a member of the world's royalty, Princess Zarina (Rebekah Carlton), in an attempt to wed her and become the supreme ruler. Unfortunately for the diminutive schemer, well-armed soldiers arrive to foil his plans. Not easily defeated, however, the feisty Leprechaun continues to battle the warriors while also contending with the warped scientist known as Dr. Mittenhand (Guy Siner).

“Leprechaun: Origins”

It might hold the same name as the other entries in the franchise, but “Leprechaun: Origins” is a serious reboot that reminds me of the differences between Sam Raimi’s original “The Evil Dead” series and Fede Alvarez’s 2013 remake. While backpacking through Ireland, two couples discover that one of the country's most-famous legends is terrifyingly real. American WWE professional wrestler Dylan Mark Postl (aka Hornswoggle) takes on the role Warwick Davis made famous, but is completely unrecognizable buried under layers of creature makeup.

“Red Clover”

If you’re looking to steer clear of the typical slew of “Leprechaun” movies, you have an alternative in “Red Clover.” It was originally known as “Leprechaun’s Revenge” and aired as a TV movie. It’s obvious why the film’s name was changed to avoid confusion with the “Leprechaun” franchise. In this After Dark Films entry, sixty-six years ago the town of Irish Channel in Louisiana was the site of a horrible massacre on St. Patrick's Day. Some blame a terrible storm that blew through the town, but those that were there don't speak of the truth. Due to petty superstitions St. Patrick's Day festivities were banned for the last sixty-six years, but now the new Mayor wants to tempt fate and celebrate.

“Darby O’Gill and the Little People”

I can’t have a list of movies to watch on St. Patrick’s Day without mentioning this one. It’s one of my all-time favorite Disney movies. What’s not to like? There’s a drunken old man trying to steal a leprechaun’s gold, a banshee trying to steal people’s souls, and James Bond singing! That’s right; just a few years before donning the tuxedo for “Dr. No,” Sean Connery belts out some Irish tunes to prove he has way more than a license to kill to attract the ladies.

In the movie, just-fired Darby O'Gill (Albert Sharpe) does not want to tell his daughter, Katie (Janet Munro), that his position has been taken by a dashing younger man (Sean Connery). Then, on his way home, Darby slips through a portal to the land of the little people. There he meets the leprechaun king, Brian (Jimmy O'Dea), and winds up accidentally bringing the little monarch home with him. Darby then demands Brian grant him three wishes, but the request brings Darby bittersweet, and unexpected, results.

There’s something here to watch for everyone on a great St. Patrick’s Day. Your whole family can enjoy “Darby O’Gill and the Little People.” After you put the little ones to bed, you can pop in either some frightful fun or corny comedic killings to serve as a nightcap. Click on any of the titles above to watch the movies instantly.

"Scooby and Shaggy's Unlucky Day" by Artist-SRF.

Dig Into This Pot of Gold Treasures to Watch for St. Patty's Day!

St. Patrick’s Day is another fun holiday to celebrate with a few good movies between gulps of green beverages and hunts for that one person who forgot what day it was and will get your full wrath in one hard pinch. I wanted to take a little time to list a few films which will help you rewind after a hard day at work or at the local Irish pub. These are just a few of my favorites and a couple suggestions that give horror fans and family folks an alternative to the usual fare they’re bombarded with every year around this time.

"Exterminators of the Year 3000" Crash Into Your Home

Scream Factory digs even deeper than usual with their latest hi-def offering of the sci-fi / apocalyptic “Exterminators of the Year 3000.” Director Jules Harrison’s (aka Giuliano Carnimeo) low-budget Italian / Spanish blend of “The Road Warrior” and Death Race” blows up all over the screen with exciting car crashes and chases. To add even more camp to the movie, the most ridiculous dialogue you’ll ever hear is overdubbed as half the cast speaks English and the others shout their lines in their native tongues.

In “Exterminators of the Year 3000,” the post-apocalyptic earth is a desert and water is the most precious substance of all. A band of survivors must turn to a mysterious stranger (Robert Iannucci) to battle a ruthless gang of motorcycle psychos for control of the wasteland and the water. Can their reluctant savior defeat the sadistic outlaws and get the water back home before their supply runs out?

Every part of “Exterminators of the Year 3000” invokes images of other end-of-the-world films of the 1970s and 1980s. The demolition derby jousting and destruction is obviously heavily influenced by “Mad Max,” “The Road Warrior,” and the original “Death Race 2000.” The survivor’s compound, water plant, and other locations are extremely reminiscent of the ones seen in “Logan’s Run” and “Battle for the Planet of the Apes.”

Anti-hero Alien looks like he walked off the set of “Megaforce” wearing Barry Bostwick’s hair and headband combined with Peter Hunter’s costume from “Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone.” Alicia Moro’s wardrobe and makeup department appear to have watched episodes of “Battlestar Galactica” and studied Farrah Fawcett’s hairstyle in “Saturn 3” to get their inspiration. Head bad guy Fernando Bilboa looks as if he was given permission to raid the left-over wardrobe from “The Road Warrior” for his outfit.

Scream Factory gives more bonus material than one would expect for such an obscure movie as “Exterminators of the Year 3000.” Audio commentary is provided by Actor Robert Iannucci. He also provides a detailed interview where he talks about his involvement in the making of the movie and shares his experiences working with the other actors. TV spots are included as well.

Although it’s nowhere near as graphic as movies of this nature would be today, “Exterminators of the Year 3000” is rated R. It contains violence and gore, profanity, alcohol use by a minor, and frightening and intense scenes. The scene of a young boy downing beer after beer as a pain killer might offend some. One other sequence has our heroes battling mutants that resemble the deformed ones from “Beneath the Planet of the Apes.”

“Exterminators of the Year 3000” is the perfect film for those who have ran out of “Mad Max” and “Death Race” flicks to watch. It’s a B-movie to top all B-movies that conjures up the same tingles and giggles you get when watching anything Roger Corman produced or directed in the 1970s and 1980s. With the release of “Mad Max: Fury Road” so close on the horizon, I can’t think of a more fitting time for audiences to enjoy this little known cult classic.

“Exterminators of the Year 3000” is available now on Blu-ray.

"Exterminators of the Year 3000" Crash Into Your Home

Scream Factory digs even deeper than usual with their latest hi-def offering of the sci-fi / apocalyptic “Exterminators of the Year 3000.” Director Jules Harrison’s (aka Giuliano Carnimeo) low-budget Italian / Spanish blend of “The Road Warrior” and Death Race” blows up all over the screen with exciting car crashes and chases. To add even more camp to the movie, the most ridiculous dialogue you’ll ever hear is overdubbed as half the cast speaks English and the others shout their lines in their native tongues.

First Jason Ari Lehman Would Love to Return to Crystal Lake

What better way to celebrate Friday the 13th than by catching up with the first ever Jason Voorhees from the 1980 slasher classic. Ari Lehman may have only had a few seconds of screen time, but they were the most important seeing that they established our image of the masked killer for the rest of the series. Let’s be honest. The scene where Jason comes out of the water and grabs Adrienne King was more startling and shocking than any of the actual butcherings Mrs. Voorhees committed in the film.

I had the opportunity of interviewing Ari about whether he would be up to the challenge of playing Jason again and what he would want in a sequel if that were to happen. It’s a fun bit of wishful thinking from a fan that sees Mr. Lehman as the child actor who gave us our first and most frightening appearance of the Jason Voorhees before he donned his trademark hockey mask. He also shared his optimistic opinion of where the next installment in the franchise is heading with Director David Bruckner at the helm.

If you had the opportunity to play Jason Voorhees again in a new “Friday the 13th” movie, would you?

Of course, being an adventurous character actor, I would be willing to take on the challenge. However I am probably not the right height, being 5' 9", unless they developed special boots! Also, I am not the right age to play Young Jason anymore. Crazy Ralph is a better choice for me. The film I was in the protagonist was brilliantly played by Betsy Palmer. Perhaps there are other members of the Voorhees family that I could play, too. Maybe Jason's Father?

Why would you want to be involved in a sequel?

The fans of "Friday the 13th" are very dedicated and devoted to the original intent of the series. It's crucial that the next installment reaches them and takes them back to Camp Crystal Lake. I received a thoughtful letter from David Bruckner, the director of the next "Friday the 13th," and what he wrote made it clear that his production will honor the legacy of the original 1980 Feature. I feel that we are all in for another Jason Voorhees thrill ride in 2016, so get ready campers!

What would you want the story to revolve around?

It's time to reveal how and why Young Jason went from a vulnerable little boy to become an indestructible monster. The character of Pamela Voorhees needs to be explored a bit more I feel. Many times fans ask me how Jason's complete transformation took place. I think that before we go forward again we need to get a deeper insight into what drives Jason Voorhees to kill. I am optimistic that the fans have something really great to look forward to. Many Thanks from Camp Crystal Lake and remember... JASON NEVER DIES!

Ari Lehman continues to be involved in the world of “Friday the 13th” off the silver screen. He sings and plays keyboard for a metal band named First Jason whose lyrics both pay tribute to the slasher franchise and branch out from there. They currently have two albums out entitled “First Jason” and “Heed My Warning.” For more information on concerts and music, go to www.firstjason.com.

First Jason Ari Lehman Would Love to Return to Crystal Lake

What better way to celebrate Friday the 13th than by catching up with the first ever Jason Voorhees from the 1980 slasher classic. Ari Lehman may have only had a few seconds of screen time, but they were the most important seeing that they established our image of the masked killer for the rest of the series. Let’s be honest. The scene where Jason comes out of the water and grabs Adrienne King was more startling and shocking than any of the actual butcherings Mrs. Voorhees committed in the film.

Archie Imprint Dark Circle Comics Revives The Black Hood!

The launch of Archie Comics' mature division is spearheaded by The Black Hood #1. Reminiscent of the now classic tales of the Minutemen and resembling Hooded Justice from that team, you have a rather solid idea of what direction we can expect the new monthly title to move in. However, it is darker in tone if you can even imagine that.

The first issue of The Black Hood kicks off the five-part story arc entitled "The Bullet's Kiss." When Philadelphia police officer Greg Hettinger stepped into the middle of a gunfight, hot lead shredded his face—and he pulled the trigger, blind. Now Greg is waking up in a world where he’s a killer, hopelessly scarred and hooked on painkillers. What does a man do when he can no longer face the world, yet still wants to do good? He puts on a hood…

I really enjoyed the rough imagery artist Michael Gaydos conceived to bring Duane Swierczynski's tale to life for The Black Hood #1. Both the writing and artwork is a perfect combination of everything you'd expect from a gritty police procedural drama and the noir landscape of dark pulpy silver screen classics featuring Sam Spade and Mike Hammer. The story was tantalizing enough to keep me turning pages until the very end.

The Black Hood #1 is definitely for mature readers. It contains violence and gore, profanity, druge use, and frightening and intense scenes. Michael Gaydos' illustrations include blood splatterings, the deformed face of The Black Hood, and our hero downing pain pills.

Dark Circle Comics' The Black Hood #1 is a great start for the mature superhero Archie imprint. Duane Swierczynski's modern noir foundation and gritty storytelling is masterfully complimented by Michael Gaydos' grim artwork. If you're a fan of classic crime thrillers of the 1940s and 1950s as well as vigilante films like "Dirty Harry" and "Death Wish," you'll find something to love inside this promising first issue.

The Black Hood #1 is available in print and Kindle editions.

Archie Imprint Dark Circle Comics Revives The Black Hood!

The launch of Archie Comics' mature division is spearheaded by The Black Hood #1. Reminiscent of the now classic tales of the Minutemen and resembling Hooded Justice from that team, you have a rather solid idea of what direction we can expect the new monthly title to move in. However, it is darker in tone if you can even imagine that.

Anchor Bay Takes Us to the "Fear Clinic"

Anchor Bay gives fans of Robert Englund another impressive movie to add to their collection with “Fear Clinic.” Based on the renowned web series, the concept carries over to a feature length film magnificently. I was first exposed to the excellent talent of filmmaker Robert Hall at a screening of his new slasher classic “Laid to Rest.” With his latest endeavor in terror, he far surpasses that simple, yet genre-bending work of art.

In “Fear Clinic,” five people with incurable phobias seek treatment in a machine that animates their fears. Unbeknownst to them, the machine's operator harbors an entity which feeds on terror.

Robert Englund proves once again that his acting abilities stretch much further than what many expect from the man who created the character of Freddy Krueger in one of the most popular horror franchises in the cinema history. His role in “Fear Clinic” dares the audience to not have sympathy for him as he strives to rescue the human race from the terrors they suffer from. The rest of the cast are visibly invested in their parts as well.

“Fear Clinic” is rated R for bloody horror violence, disturbing images, language and some sexuality/nudity. Many of the dream sequences and flashbacks feature hallucinatory cinematography and choppy editing that give the viewer a sense of anxiety. It’s nowhere near as graphic and gory as the “Laid to Rest” movies.

The only special feature included for the “Fear Clinic” Blu-ray is a making of featurette entitled “'Fear Clinic:' Behind the Scenes.” It includes cast and crew interviews mixed with footage of the shooting of the movie. The extra is around 11 minutes long and delves into the transition from web series to full length film and more.

Robert Hall has given horror fans a unique and engaging journey into the heart of our most dreaded nightmares. It’s hard to compare “Fear Clinic” to any other movies out there. Imagine the artful abstract imagery from “The Cell” blended with a Lovecraftian creature feature and you’ll halfway have an idea of what to expect. It also uses a familiar scenario which is becoming disturbingly more and more commonplace as its foundation.

"Fear Clinic" is available now on Blu-ray, DVD, and as a Digital Download.

Anchor Bay Takes Us to the "Fear Clinic"

Anchor Bay gives fans of Robert Englund another impressive movie to add to their collection with “Fear Clinic.” Based on the renowned web series, the concept carries over to a feature length film magnificently. I was first exposed to the excellent talent of filmmaker Robert Hall at a screening of his new slasher classic “Laid to Rest.” With his latest endeavor in terror, he far surpasses that simple, yet genre-bending work of art.

Get Ready to Celebrate "New Year's Evil" in Hi-Def

Scream Factory will make many horror and slasher fans very happy with the release of the rare and long-sought-after holiday slaughterfest “New Year’s Evil” on Blu-ray. They definitely missed the boat for the 2014 to 2015 festivities, but never again will I have to watch a bootleg copy or wonder if it it’s streaming on Netflix. I have all the blood and guts in high-definition to enjoy from now on.

In “New Year’s Evil,” Diane "Blaze" Sullivan (Roz Kelly) is the host of a nationally televised punk-rock show on New Year’s Eve. She begins receiving calls from a mysterious killer (Kip Niven) who tells her of his sadistic plans. The lunatic will off someone at midnight in each of America’s major time zones… and she will be the last.

“New Year’s Evil” takes an interesting approach to the typical slasher flick. Instead of the killer being masked and the audience being left wondering who they are, the murderer is identified almost immediately. The mystery we’re left to solve is who they are and why they’re targeting radio show host Roz Kelly. What is the endgame of the stalker and why is he targeting the DJ?

Scream Factory gives enthusiasts of “New Year’s Evil” some engaging bonus material for its Blu-ray debut. Audio commentary from Director Emmett Alston is included. There are also new interviews with actors Kip Niven, Grant Cramer, Taaffe O’Connell and Director of Photography Thomas Ackerman. A theatrical trailer is found as well.

“New Year’s Evil” is rated R for violence, gore, language, adult situations, and nudity. If you’ve seen any other 1980s slasher films, you know what to expect. There’s also smoking and drinking at the big New Year’s party.

I don’t know how much more perfect “New Year’s Evil” could be. It’s a fitting and entertaining holiday slasher for a time of the year that usually gets lost in all the Christmas craziness. As a bonus, the movie is a reflection of the 1980s new wave and punk rock movements that defined the era. Blended together, we get a film worthy to be added to any horror fan’s annual end-of-the-year home entertainment collection.

“New Year’s Evil” is available now on Blu-ray.

Get Ready to Celebrate "New Year's Evil" in Hi-Def

Scream Factory will make many horror and slasher fans very happy with the release of the rare and long-sought-after holiday slaughterfest “New Year’s Evil” on Blu-ray. They definitely missed the boat for the 2014 to 2015 festivities, but never again will I have to watch a bootleg copy or wonder if it it’s streaming on Netflix. I have all the blood and guts in high-definition to enjoy from now on.

Epic Battle Falters in "Frankenstein vs. The Mummy"

I love the classic Universal and Hammer horror and monster films. The Universal pictures of the 1930s and 1940s capture my fancy because of their black-and-white shadowing, atmosphere, and theatrical acting. The Hammer movies feed my appetite for Technicolor gore, gothic settings, and even more dramatic turns from two of my favorite genre actors – Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. Writer / Director Damien Leone’s “Frankenstein vs. The Mummy” puts a modern spin on and combines both the tales of Mary Shelley and the story for Boris Karloff’s 1932 original conceived by Nina Wilcox Putnam and Richard Schayer.

In "Frankenstein vs. The Mummy," Dr. Victor Frankenstein (Max Rhyser) and Egyptologist Naihla Khalil (Ashton Leigh) are both professors at a leading medical university. Victor’s latest grisly “experiment” is the re-animated corpse (Constantin Tripes) of a sadistic madman and Naihla’s most recent find is the cursed mummy (Brandon deSpain) of an evil pharaoh. When the two monsters face-off in an epic showdown, no one is safe from the slaughter. Can the murderous rampage be stopped and the carnage contained before it’s too late?

Writer / Director Damien Leone does his best at paying tribute to the classic monster mashups of Universal’s heydays of horror. We got to see Frankenstein’s monster go up against the Wolf-Man and team up with Dracula on a few occasions. For anyone who grew up watching these movies, it only makes sense that you’d want to see “Frankenstein vs. The Mummy.” Who in their right mind wouldn’t? Unfortunately, Leone’s ingenious way of marrying the two tales together ends up leading to a rather lackluster battle between the two iconic creatures that will leave audiences feeling unfulfilled.

“Frankenstein vs. The Mummy” is not rated, but if it were would probably be a hard R or NC-17 because of the amount of graphic gore. It also includes adult situations and sensuality, violence, profanity, smoking, and frightening and intense scenes. The sensuality and adult situations revolve around an unnecessary sex scene that adds nothing to the story and a couple of attempted rape scenes with the monster assaulting Naihlia.

The movie is only available on DVD and comes with one special feature. Audio commentary is provided by Writer / Director Damien Leone and Cinematographer George Steuber. I’m a little surprised someone didn’t document the making of the movie considering it is so heavy in the makeup and practical effects departments. It would’ve been cool to see behind-the-scenes of the gruesome butcherings and makeup applications.

“Frankenstein vs. The Mummy” is an admirable attempt at capturing the glory days of the Universal and Hammer monster movies. Weak acting and lulls in action work against the film as a whole. I do have to give credit to Writer / Director Damien Leone for trying to build up the story and character motivations, but here it only serves to slow down and put off what everyone watches the movie for in the first place. We want to see the big showdown between Frankenstein’s Monster and the Mummy, which is way too short when it finally arrives. In the movie’s defense, there are some great gory practical effects and a few bloodcurdling scenes that made me cringe.

“Frankenstein vs. The Mummy” is available now on DVD and as a Digital Download.

Epic Battle Falters in "Frankenstein vs. The Mummy"

I love the classic Universal and Hammer horror and monster films. The Universal pictures of the 1930s and 1940s capture my fancy because of their black-and-white shadowing, atmosphere, and theatrical acting. The Hammer movies feed my appetite for Technicolor gore, gothic settings, and even more dramatic turns from two of my favorite genre actors – Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. Writer / Director Damien Leone’s “Frankenstein vs. The Mummy” puts a modern spin on and combines both the tales of Mary Shelley and the story for Boris Karloff’s 1932 original conceived by Nina Wilcox Putnam and Richard Schayer.