my thoughts on.... 'The Collection'

I really enjoyed all of the 'Saw' films. I own them all and have seen them all, several times. What does that have to do with 'The Collector' and/or 'The Collection'? A lot, actually. Marcus Dunstan, co-writer and director of the 'Collector' films, was also the co-writer of parts 4, 5, 6 and 7 of the 'Saw' films. Maybe that's enough of an endorsement to sway you one way or the other, right off the bat. Maybe now. Either way, I really appreciate Mr. Dunstan's love of the genre and he has quite the eye for horror. His films have their own unique voice and vision. While they might not be the top of the heap, they're pretty damn amazing overall.

I recently talked about, on episode 65 of 'The Sunshine Happy Kpants Hour', the new crop of horror directors to keep an eye on. For whatever reason, I passed over Marcus Dunstan and that was a shame on my part. I'm now officially adding him to my list. I mean, after seeing how his films evolved from 'The Collector' to the 'The Collection', I can see big things in his future. His visual style reminds me of an early Alexadre Aja ('High Tension'). There was something very fresh about both of these films. This review is really for 'The Collection', but I feel that there should at least be some mention of the other films he's worked on. The world that 'The Collector' set up, is very similar to the world of 'Saw'. Where those films end, seems to be where 'The Collection' begins. It's almost as if it was a hybrid of those films.

'The Collection' begins with a brief back story on our main heroine and then quickly jumps right into the meat of the film. With the characters having already been established in the last film, there's no need for a ton of exposition. That, to me, is the way a sequel should be. You soon are re-introduced to the main character from the last film and all hell breaks loose from there. It's as if 'The Collector' was the appetizer and 'The Collection' is the main course. This film is amped up heavily with more kills, bigger sets, bigger production value, a meaner killer, a stronger set of heroes and a whole lot of horror. There's so much good going on in this film, that it's hard to find the negative. The big thing to keep in mind though, is that this is a horror film and not an academy award nominated film. It's meant to entertain and scare you, nothing more. Granted, he re-invents the wheel in some ways, but this won't re-write the genre. There's a lot of things here that are familiar, but it doesn't matter.... because there's so much more that's new and interesting. It's as if The Collector is Bruce Wayne/Batman, if he was a psychotic mass murderer with no remorse and no regrets. Not unlike the much lower budgeted 'Laid To Rest' movies. Those follow a very similar character arc and storytelling. The big difference is style and budget. Those are by far the lower budget movies. Mr. Dunstan seems to have some people with money that think he has promise and something new to say. It shows.

I feel like I'm heaping a whole lot more praise on these films then I did after the first time I saw them, but over time.... I've seen other movies and grown to appreciate what I missed the first time out. 'The Collection' is a fun, thrill ride that starts out strong and never really lets up. It has a memorable and likable cast. It has characters you actually care about and root for and it gives you an ending that leaves you feeling full and satisfied. It begs the question of a sequel, but doesn't assume that one will actually happen. My hope is, that it will spawn another installment, as I want to see where things go. I never expected these films to become a franchise, but with the path it's taken, I wouldn't be surprised if it takes on a life not unlike 'Saw' did. There's a potential here for another horror soap opera of epic scope. Even the potential to turn an extremely dark villan into a really dark anti-hero. I don't want to provide any spoilers for the endings, but things could head many different directions in part three.

If you're like me and you think that you've seen everything....twice, then this might be the film(s) for you. It's like settling down for another viewing of 'Friday the 13th' on a 25 year old VHS copy, that's been watched to death. Then, suddenly, putting in a Blu-ray special edition of it and watching it in full stereo surround sound on a 100 inch flat screen. It's night and day. This is the way horror should be made. Again, it's not the greatest ever and it's not adding anything new to the genre. It's really just a clean, fresh breath of air on a hot, muggy day. Just what that doctor ordered, whether you realized you needed it or not. It also has instilled a firm belief in me that Marcus Dunstan is a man to watch. He's just getting warmed up and I feel that there's some more amazingness headed our way soon. Mark my words.

3 out of 5 stars, heavily leaning on 4.

If you like 'The Collection', watch: 'The Collector', 'Laid To Rest' and 'Laid To Rest 2: Chromeskull'

my thoughts on.... 'The Human Centipede II: Full Sequence'

I never claimed to be an uber-fan of the original 'Human Centipede' flim. However, I did defend it for being orignal and really quite well made. It has a grossly over-hyped reputation as being one of the sickest films of all time.

I hate to burst your bubble folks, but there are many many other films that are FAR worse than this. See 'A Serbian Film' and we'll talk again.

This film actually has very good actors involved and they carry the film and turn a very disturbing subject matter into something tolerable. The real standout is Dieter Laser. He plays the doctor with such amazing skill and charisma that you can't help but love him. He's a villan for the ages. Now, with all that being said, let's move on to the sequel. I have to say, I was really hesitant about another film being made in this series. It really felt after the first one, that there wasn't any other territory to cover. I was dead wrong. Tom Six, the writer/ director, know exactly what he was doing. He planned on a trilogy from the start and it is obvious once you see this film. He created a concept that made a unique and interesting follow up, without being boring or just a re-telling of part 1. He also found an actor who matched Dieter Laser's performance and may have even surpassed.... without ever saying a single word. Laurence R. Harvey, who plays our lead character Martin, is not your typical leading man. He's obese, unattractive, scary to look at and doesn't seem to have anything going for him. In other words, he's perfect for this film. The funny thing is, Mr. Harvey is a British stage veteran and, yes, one-time children's television performer. Not the resume you'd look for in a depraved role such as Martin. No matter what his past was or how he got the role, he is so good that you can't take his eyes off of him and you feel repulsed and attracted to him in the same time. Even if you watch this and can't make it through the whole thing, at least watch some of it, so you can see this amazing performance. I just can't get over how much I really enjoyed this film. And that makes me a little sick to my stomach, but only because of some of the things I witnessed. Now, onto the plot. (Yes, there is one.)

The plot is taken from IMDB.com: "Martin is a mentally disturbed loner who lives with his mother in a bleak housing project. He works the night shift as a security guard in an equally grim and foreboding underground parking complex. To escape his dreary existence, Martin loses himself in the fantasy world of the cult horror film 'The Human Centipede (First Sequence)', fetishizing the meticulous surgical skills of the gifted Dr. Heiter, whose knowledge of the human gastrointestinal system inspires Martin to attempt the unthinkable." What they're referring to here is that Martin desires to make his own centipede and working at night in a parking garage affords him that possability. One by one, he begins collecting people to build his own monster. Meanwhile, things at home are going from bad to worse and he slowly slips further and futher into his delisions. When he finally begins 'construction' on his centipede, he quickly learns that he doesn't have the medical skills to do it the way the doctor does in the film. His alternate plan of action is.... well, frightening and thank god it's in black and white. I don't want to give away anymore of the plot than that. Needless to say, it's extremely original and blurs the lines of reality and fiction. The only version available right now is the censored version. There is an uncensored one that is set to appear soon, but Tom Six (the director) is just trying to get it to see the light of day. There are at least 3 scenes I know of, that were cut and they sound pretty disturbing. Although, there is one scene in this film that makes the entire first one look tame. Oh and I forgot to mention, Martin has twelve people for his creature.... that makes this much larger than the 3 person version in part one.'The Human Centipede II: Full Sequence' was filmed entirely in color, but converted to black and white in post production. I hear that there are a couple of color scenes still, but they were left out of the version I saw. The film was originally scheduled for a straight-to-DVD release. It was then banned in the United Kingdom by the BBFC because of its "revolting" content, but was eventually granted an 18 certificate after over 32 cuts were made. That means there is a lot of material that was left out and I've only heard of three of them. This could mean a very jam packed Blu-ray release. This film was released in theaters, on a limited run, but has not made it around the entire world just yet. That's why I believe there is still hope for a full, uncut version to make it here to the states. Now, once you see all of the things portrayed in this film, you'll be glad that it's in black and white. The blood is only part of it and what your mind can create out of the parts that are missing, are far worse then anything that was really filmed. I can imagine that if the final scene was in color, it would hit you like a punch in the throat with a metal glove. Because after spending an hour and a half getting used to the lack or color, the sudden addition of it would be shocking to the system.... just like the film itself.

Before I finish this review and give you my final rating on it all, I want to go back to the characters in this film. Tom Six must have had a messed up childhood or has a really sick and twisted imagination. Between the mother of Martin, his sexually depraved doctor and his asshole neighbor, you actually are rooting for him to torture and kill them all by the end. I know I hated the supporting characters far more than Martin, who was the sickest of them all. But Tom Six built the story up in such a way, that you feel sorry for Martin and look to him as an anti-hero or a man with a reason for his actions. He is basically a monster that was built by a perfect storm of situations in his upbringin. Perhaps, if he wasn't raised the way he was, he may have turned out fine. It's also kind of funny that Tom Six would point some of the blame back on himself. Martin is the way he is, because of his life prior to 'The Human Centipede'.... but 'The Human Centipede' also pushed him over the edge and into a very dark place. It gave him some extremely twisted and horrific ideas that he ended up carrying out on a lot of innocent men, women and children. It takes some balls to say that what you've created may cause others to act out and do terrible things.

All in all, I am sure there is a lot more I could say about this film. I feel like I have left out a lot. However, I don't want to give away any more possible plot points and I want to leave you with some desire to fill in the blanks that I left out of here on purpose. That being said, this is a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It's a rare example of a sequel that didn't so much surpass it's predecessor, but rather built up on it and moved the story forward. It actually made the first film stronger and in turn, made itself stronger too. Usually the sequel is a time for the film maker's to rest on their laurels and just give the audience more of the same from the first film. That's kind of the rule in movies. Tom Six didn't seem to get that memo or he chose to ignore it. The root of this film is basically the same as the orignal, but it's oh so much more. I plan on adding this and the first one to my collection as soon as I can. I can't say that I'll run out and recommend it to every friend I have, but for those who are adventurous and like their horror a little more "unique".... this will be at the top of my list. Go see it, if you dare.

Before seeing this film, you must see: 'The Human Centipede: First Sequence', but if you want to see something 20 times more depraved than both of these films put together, track down 'A Serbian Film'.... but don't say I didn't warn you. There are some things you can never unsee.

my thoughts on.... 'Hobo With A Shotgun'

4 years and 3 days ago, a film was released that proved to be one of the best movie going experiences that I've ever had. The film was 'Grindhouse'. It was a fun ride that lasted several hours and the entire audience was involved, not something that is seen too often these days. One of the fun little side effects of that film was the 'faux' trailers that were at the beginning and middle of the films. Robert Rodriguez's trailer for 'Machete' has already been made into a full length movie and released to some pretty good reviews. One of the other trailers was a fan-made one that only played in certain cities.... it was called 'Hobo With A Shotgun'.

It was a sweet little piece of heaven written and directed by a gentleman named, Jason Eisener. Due to the reception of this 2 minute opus, Mr. Eisener was given the greenlight to make a full length version. I had the pleasure of seeing it last night and I have to say, I loved it! I can't think of the last time I saw a Rutger Hauer movie that I enjoyed. I also wasn't sure that this concept could carry a full one and a half hours and still be worthwhile.... I was wrong.

Today it seems like studios are cranking out remakes and reboots and very little original material. And when it is original, it's not always 'original' if you know what I mean? That's what made 'Hobo With A Shotgun' so damn fun! Not only was it original, but it was truly an original concept and one that was so incredibly simple that it was genius. It just proves the point that there are new ideas still out there in Hollywood and you don't have to create the next 'Star Wars' saga to make a good piece of cinema. What I mean is that this is a film, literally, about a hobo with a shotgun. No more, no less. You don't have to find a deeper meaning, although I think there is one here.... you can just sit back, eat some popcorn, root for the vigilante and check your brain at the door. You get as much or as little out of this film as you want. It's not begging for your approval, it just is what it is. It's chock full of blood, guts, gore, violence, comedy, one-liners, 70's style cheese, pretty ladies, nasty villans, gritty cinematography, big guns and a hero for the new age. I may be heaping way too much praise on something so basic, but I had so much fun watching this from the get-go that I can't help but want to pass the joy along to anyone else who'll listen. This film is an example of why I love film and why I love to write about film.

The plot? Read on....

An unamed hobo wanders into town on a railroad car. What he finds is a town in ruins. The law is currupt, criminals are everywhere, money is scarce, people are willing to do anything for a dollar and there is little to no hope of a future. The few people that still have a good heart are forced to do terrible things or are so afraid of the bad guys that they have to hide. Despite all of this depression and gloom, our hero only wants to get enough money to buy a lawnmower and make a decent living cutting peoples grass. After he wittnesses one too many violent crimes, he decides that he's had enough and he has to step in. So while being held up at a pawn shop, he takes down a shotgun off the wall (that he eventually pays for) and proceeds to blow away the three criminals that are robbing the place. From this point forward, he's out to clean up the town one shell at a time. Along the bloody path towards redemption, he meets a good hearted prostitute and she befriends him. Meanwhile, the head villan turns the entire town against him by having them all go out to kill the hobo.... not just the one hobo, but all the hobo's, just in case. Things go from bad to worse as two hired killers get involved and things turn into a bloody battle for justice. What happens in the end? You'll have to find out for yourself! Watch, 'Hobo With A Shotgun'.... Rated R.

If you decided to delve into this film, think 'Mad Max' meets 'Death Wish'. Rutger Hauer turns up the intensity factor in this film.... all the way to 11. As a matter of fact, this entire film is at an 11, the whole time. It starts out with a 5 minute intro that lulls you into a comfortable place, but then all hell breaks loose and it doesn't let up for another hour and a half. I felt exhausted by the time it ended, but in a 'cigarette after sex' kind of way. Something that you may be thinking by the simple plot is that this can't have a good script, you would be wrong. I don't know how Jason was able to pull something so smart out of something so basic, but he does. I also figured that the acting would be sub-par since this is a kind of throwback to a simple time, I was wrong there too. Everyone in this film turns in a quality performance. It's as good as anything that you'll see in a "serious" film. This might just mark the return of Rutger Hauer and the rise of Molly Dunsworth. I can only hope that the critical reviews of this film are as glowing as mine, however I kind of doubt that everyone will see this the way I did. Hell, maybe you won't even agree with me about this. I just hope that if you do watch this little gem, please have an open mind and a clear head.... that's all I ask. Also, make sure you have a strong stomach, this has some VERY graphic content. Lots of blood and things being broken or ripped off of bodies. That's about all I have to say, I guess. Let me just sum this review up by saying that I give this a rare 5 out of 5 star rating. It deserves nothing less than that and I cannot wait to see what Jason Eisener has coming out next. That and I want to see where this takes Rutger Hauer. Even if neither of them do anything else for the rest of their lives after 'Hobo With A Shotgun', this film will stand as a testament to all that is right with filmaking and all that is wrong with the world.

Since there are no other films that I want to relate to this, I'll leave you with the classic speech from this film:
Hobo: [to a group of newborn babies] "I used to be like you. A long time ago. All brand new and perfect. No mistakes, no regrets. People look at you and think of how wonderful your future will be. They want you to be something special, like a doctor, or a lawyer. I hate to tell you this, but if you grow up here, you're more likely to wind up selling your bodies on the streets, or shooting dope from dirty needles in a bus stop. And if you're successful, you'll make money selling junk to crackheads. And don't think twice about killing someone's wife, because you won't even know it's wrong in the first place. Maybe... you'll end up like me. A hobo with a shotgun."

Side note: This film has officially been added to my list as one of my top 50 films of all time. Nuff' said.

my brief thoughts on.... 'Doghouse'

Zombies, zombies, zombies.... I love zombies. It's so nice to find a new twist on an old theme, especially one involving the undead. I've been lucky enough to have several zombie movies that have found their way to my TiVo or DVD player in the past few weeks that are new and different. It has re-ignited my love affair with the flesh eating corpses. (not that it ever went away really.) I remember seeing the trailer for 'Doghouse' quite a while ago and thinking that I wanted to add it to my Netlfix queue, but it wasn't available at the time. This little gem came out in 2009 and hit Netflix just recently. Most of you will probably recognize the star, Stephen Graham. He was Jason Statham's partner in 'Snatch'.... the one looking for the caravan. He's spot on in this movie and is equal parts funnyman and the hesitant hero. His friends are all likeable characters and you can find at least one that you'll relate too. They're a nice cross section of the male gender. The special effects are well done and each zombie is unique and a character all by themself. It seems in the zombie films of the past, zombies were all kind of interchangeable and a lot of them just blended together. Nowdays, zombies are as much of a main character as the main characters. They're all done as though they'll be the main focus of the movie. You can quickly identify each one. Granted, they may not have a specific name.... but like the 'Baseball Girl' in 'Land of the Dead', you remember who they are.

The plot here involves six guys who all leave their significant others to go to a little town called Moodley for the weekend. They take a little bus and leave one guy behind, who just couldn't get away. When they arrive in the quaint little town, the guys are let down that it looks like a little mountain town from the old days. Afraid that they will die of boredom, they begin to rethink coming. One of the blokes notices a woman walking down the street, when he approaches her.... she turns on him and he discovers she's a zombie. But she's not the only one, every woman in town has been affected by a government made virus that only turns females into the walking dead. There is not a single man in sight. The boys make a run for the bus, but their female bus driver has turned now and they make a 180 turn back towards the town. While seeking shelter, they have to dodge hordes of zombies. Soon they get seperated and it's almost every man for himself. Things get cranked up at this point and build to the finale. See what I mean about a new twist on an old theme? It's not quite re-inventing the wheel, but if it ain't broke.... don't fix it, right? Regardless, it's still nice to see something different. The zombies are, as always, disgusting looking. Each one has an obvious look to them that leads you to draw a conclusion about who they were before they turned. Like the butcher that one guy runs into. Even if she hadn't still been in the butcher shop chopping up a victim, you'd still be able to tell who she was. That's kind of a nice little touch that they've added here. There are a few fun little 'inventions' that they create to fight the undead. Like a remote control car with model plane fuel or the old fuel in a water gun trick. Some of these things are more effective than others, thus lending itself to some funny moments. All in all, a solid story with solid characters and solid zombies.

I couldn't say this was nearly as good as 'Shaun of the Dead', but it has a similar feel to it. Maybe it's because it was made across the pond? It's not nearly as clever or as strong as that movie was the whole way through. I wouldn't be surprise, however, if it was a strong influence on the writers of 'Doghouse' and I wouldn't say that's a bad thing. I narrowed it down to a 3 out of 5 star attempt. One that probably won't make it into my DVD collection, but one that I might watch again in the future. It's available to rent from Netflix, but not OnDemand sadly. It's worth the rental and worth your time to watch it. I don't know how readily available it is from any other source, but I'm sure you can find it if you dig around. So before you head out for a boy's weekend out, think about 'Doghouse' and make sure you're prepared to defend yourself if they female gender takes a turn for the worse.

If you like this, you'll dig: 'Shaun of the Dead', 'Dead Alive aka Braindead' and 'Cemetary Man'

my brief thoughts on.... 'Piranha' (2010)

when Alexandre Aja released his film 'Haute Tension aka High Tension' in 2003, i hailed him as one of the up and coming directors that was going to save horror.... he was part of an elite group of artists that had a unique vision and something fresh to contibute to a genre saturated with PG-13 crap fests.... he had something gritty, dark, original, well thought out, violent, and beautiful to watch (cinematography).... over the years he's released some good and some okay horror films.... i don't think he's done yet and i still have faith in what the future holds.... regardless of all of that, when i heard he was remaking the cult classic 'Piranha' from 1978 i was a little concerned.... and when i heard it was going to be yet another 3-D movie, i got a little more concerned.... i thought maybe i was wrong and that maybe he had bought into all of the recent trends in Hollywood filmmaking.... because of that, i stayed away from this for a bit.... the only thing that turned me around on watching this sooner than expected was some very glowing reviews.... not only did the press enjoy it, but a lot of my friends felt the same way.... no one said this was high art, however they all agreed that it was a damn fun ride worthy of an audience.... and that brings me to now....

this movie is about a spring break like scenario at Lake Havasu.... while all the young people are partying and getting drunk, an earthquake strikes the town.... some researchers are exploring the phenomenon and find an underwater lake beneath the lake.... what they discover there is killer piranha's from 1000's of years ago.... soon the killer fish begin to attack and kill everyone around the lake and chaos ensues.... only a few survivors remain to stop the attack....
i hesitantly gave this 3 out of 5 stars.... i think with another viewing of this movie, that i will probably raise it to 4 stars.... it's just such a fun little excursion from the average movie going experience.... it's big stupid fun with a silly script and storyline.... the fish are over the top.... the acting is over the top.... there's nothing small or half-assed about this movie.... it knew what it was going to be and relished in that fact instead of trying to pretend it was something other than a B-grade movie with a big budget.... this is not the defining moment of Alexandre Aja's career, but it's a nice little notch in his accomplishment belt.... if you want a silly little bloody getaway, this is the movie you need to see.... even the ending is funny.... the only thing is, before you watch this movie, grab some fish to eat.... before it eats you....!

some other Alexandre Aja films: 'Haute Tension aka High Tension', 'The Hills Have Eyes' (2006), and 'Mirrors'

my brief thoughts on.... 'La horde aka The Horde'

in this day and age, zombie movie are a dime a dozen.... every director's first movie seems to be in the zombie genre.... there's an oversaturated market right now.... there's new zombie movies come out almost every week.... and very few make a lasting impression.... recently 'The Walking Dead' took the genre and made it into a series.... and it was the first time zombies were on TV on a weekly basis.... now there's another series starting soon and the movies keep coming.... i watch a lot of the movies that come out with the hopes that something fresh or original or at least fun will come out.... i love 'The Walking Dead' and have seen a few good zombie films in the past year or so.... but a couple of weeks ago i finally had the chance to see the French take on the undead....! and let me say that i was NOT dissappointed.... this movie was such a good time to watch.... it is what i would call a 'satisfying' movie.... something where at the end of it, you feel like you didn't waste your time.... and i certainly felt like it was time well spent.

the basic story is that some cops go rogue to avenge the death of a fellow officer.... they infiltrate a run down old apartment complex where the bad guys are hanging out.... things seem to be going fine, but then things suddenly go straight to hell and the cops get caught by the bad guys and are held hostage.... meanwhile, the rest of the world has been taken over by the living dead.... once they realize what's going on, they lockdown the building and make a shaky truce so that they might get out alive.... the rest of the film revolves around them making their way through the building in an attempt to escape....
if you don't mind subtitles, lots of gunfire and some pretty nifty gore, then this film is for you.... i am continually impressed with the quality of the horror films that the French have been producing.... they are a big time contender in the horror genre and this movie proves yet again that they're on the top of their game.... the action is well done.... the zombies are scary.... the characters are well drawn out and you get attached to each and every one of them.... i can't recommend this film enough.... it's a wonderful addition to the zombie lexicon and one that will eventually be a part of the Joel DVD library.... zombie films are my bread and butter of the horror genre.... and this one stands out above all the other garbage that keeps getting pumped out.... i gave it 4 out of 5 stars.... a great film.

if you like this, watch: 'Diary of the Dead', 'Zombieland' or 'Dawn of the Dead' (2004)

my very brief thoughts on.... 'Saw VII: The Final Chapter'

just so you don't think i only write negative reviews.... here's a positive one....!

when i watched the original 'Saw' for the first time, i was in love.... it reminded me of 'Se7en', but not as high budget.... it was a fun trip with a nice twist at the end.... i then watched all of the sequels and finally watched part 7 a couple of weeks ago.... it was an enjoyable watch, just like all the rest.... granted, the series has changed quite a bit since the original.... but everything has to evolve.... and with the 'Saw' series you can't just keep up with the original formula.... it would get boring.... so what did they do....? they turned it into one giant, bloody soap opera... . complete with plot twists, crazy ties between characters, an implausable storyline, and just all out drama.... despite how negative that sounds.... i don't mean it in that way.... i love to watch movies with sequels.... to see the characters grow and change.... and when the series maintains its level of quality throughout all the movies, that's rare.... and even though it might not be cool to say you like the 'Saw' movies anymore, i do.

if you're a fan of the first 6 movies, then you can't go wrong with part 7.... i know they say this is the 'Final Chapter', but there's still room for more sequels.... i don't know if that's the plan, however the option is open....
the storyline continues right where the last movie left off.... there's several traps and more twists and turns to possibly confuse or expand the world James Wan created.... i gave this 4 out of 5 stars.... it's just a good time all the way around and i love to watch these movies in order so i can see the progression.... and i suggest if you haven't done that before, you should try it.... they all tie together so neatly and all the actors remain consistant throughout the series, so there is continuity the whole time.... my final thoughts....? a solid possible end to a franchise that never seemed like it was going to be a franchise in the first place.

if you like this movie, watch all the other 'Saw' movie.... hopefully you don't start with the last one first....

my very brief thoughts on.... 'Faust: Love of the Damned'

i used to collect comics back in the late 80's and early 90's.... i had come across an ultra-violent comic called 'Grips' by a man named Tim Vigil.... i instantly fell in love.... it was kind of like Wolverine, without the mutation and with a LOT more blood.... soon after, Tim Vigil started a series called 'Faust: Love of the Damned'.... it was very similar to 'Grips', but it dealt with a man who made a deal with (basically) the devil.... to take revenge on those who murdered his significant other.... but the devil can't control him and he soon begins to wreak havoc and eventually confronts the evil 'M' himself.... it was a kick ass story, killer art, and every teenagers dream of a comic.... eventually (after i stopped collecting) i heard that Brian Yuzna, director of 'Re-Animator', was making a film version of the comic.... i was pretty excited, as Brian Yuzna is a fairly violent and disturbing director.... which made perfect sense with 'Faust'.... soon, stills from the movie started appearing and i begin to get a little concerned.... and when i finally saw an actual shot of Mark Frost as 'Faust' i nearly cried.... it was so terrible.... the reviews once it came out were terrible.... and a friend of mine, a mutual lover of Tim Vigil, saw the movie and told me how horrificly bad it was.... therefore i stayed away for a VERY long time.... it was recently released OnDemand from Netflix.... and i took the time to watch it, despite my better judgement.... i had a slight glimmer of hope that maybe it wasn't as bad as i'd heard.... and since my expectations were SO low, i figured that maybe i'd get some enjoyment out of it....

i was wrong.
Mark Frost's portrayal of 'Faust' was so over the top and bad that i almost turned it off within the first 15 minutes.... however, i generally will watch any movie to the end.... no matter how terrible.... so i soldiered on.... and it just got worse.... there was nothing good about this movie.... nothing.... the worst part was the costume for 'Faust'.... it was obviously made of latex or rubber (it wiggled when he moved) and made the character look like a bad SyFy original movie villan.... the special effects were sub-par.... the writting sucked.... the ending nearly made me hunt down Tim Vigil just so i could punch him in the testicles.... basically, what i'm saying is, "Don't watch this movie. Under any circumstances.".... i can never unsee what i saw.... i can't wash my brain clean of this giant piece of poo.... 1 out of 5 stars.... and i really wish i could give it negative stars....

that's all i have to say about that.

if you like this movie.... i don't think we can be friends.

my thoughts on.... the 'August Underground' trilogy

what can be said about these films that hasn't already been said....? they set the bar for indie gore-fests.... and Fred Vogel set the bar so high that no one has been able to top him.... i've spent years hearing about them and avoiding them like the plague.... i've never been a fan of gore, only in small doses.... ie: i've dabbled in it here and there.... however, as a student of film i feel that in order to be well rounded and able to critique a film, you need to have a firm base.... i mean, you can't honestly have an unbiased opinion if you haven't seen it from all sides.... that's what finally brought me to watch these films.... that and a recent viewing of 'Srpski Film aka A Serbian Film'.... which has been reviewed with the same vile love and seething hatred that the 'August Underground' series has been reviewed.... the only difference is that 'A Serbian Film' has some high production values and some obvious money behind it.... Fred Vogel had none of that when he started making his films.... (i also enjoy watching the same types of films, so that i can get as many examples as possible of a genre under my belt.)....

in case you've never heard of or seen anything about these films, let me give you a short primer.... Fred Vogel is a guru of special F/X and was hired as an instructor at Tom Savini's school right out of college.... but his love was making films.... his love was film in general.... specifically horror.... and it all started with James Whale's 'Frankenstein'.... oh wait, who's Fred Vogel....? he's the star, writer, producer and director.... the all around brainchild behind the 'August Underground' series of films.... now the films themselves are based on the premise that serial killer movies glorify the killing.... but they don't show the reality of it.... how messy it is.... how horrifying it truly is.... it's all just a big show.... remember the scene in 'Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer' where they videotape their crimes and re-watch it later.... that's the catalyst for the design of these films.... because that one scene stands out in that movie as truly terrifying.... it's all too realistic.... and therefore it hits WAY too close to home.... and what Fred Vogel did was to take that concept and expand on it.... to create the ultimate 'snuff' film.... by using videotape to film the 'August Underground' series, it tears down that safety wall between you and the charaters on the screen.... it brings them right into your living room and it's almost like you're watching your own home movies, but with a lot more death.... the films aren't just all about killing, they also show the day to day life of those who kill.... it makes them even more real.... because the're just like you and me.... granted, some of their day to day stuff is a little 'off', but they're still just flesh and blood people.... but once the killing starts, you see the other side of humanity.... the sickest, cruelest parts.... and the original film was so realistic that it was believed to be a true 'snuff' film at one point.... i suppose that's enough information to give you an insight into what to expect....

the basic premise of the stories involves our main character, played by Fred Vogel.... he's never given a name, he's just our lead.... in the original film, the only oher lead character is the man filming the entire thing and he's never seen or named.... in 'Mordum', Fred is joined by a brother and sister duo and our original camera man does not return.... Fred is dating the sister, but the sister and brother have a 'special' relationship.... in 'Penance', Fred and Crusty (the sister from 'Mordum') are the leads and carry us out until the series ends.... all three films are tied together by Fred and a loose storyline.... and by loose, i mean it's like watching home movies.... you can only gain so much information by listening to the dialogue between people.... that's kind of the scary part.... there isn't much of a motive other than the killing is fun and they like to do it a LOT.... regardless of that, you still become attached to the characters and want to see how their lives will play out.... (or at least i did.).... all three films are snippits of these people's lives.... the day to day, the goofing around, the concerts they see, the homes they live in and the people they murder.... and it's all edited in such a way that it honestly feels like a home movie.... a lot of people find that boring.... others find it that much more intriguing because of the fact that it's hard to seperate fact from fiction....
the killings are what got these films the reputation that they have.... and make no bones about it, they live up to every bit of hype you've heard.... the actors in this film pull no punches and give Oscar worthy performances.... if you sat someone down who'd never heard of, seen or cared about these movies and told them they were real, they just might belive you.... now i'm not one for spoilers, so i won't get to in depth in the murder part.... but there's lots of blood, guts, maggots, nails, duct tape, a saw, a hammer, screaming, nudity, filth, humiliation, Christmas presents and (i hate to say it) rape.... this stuff will punch you in the gut and keep coming until you either throw up or keep watching.... this is the deep end of the pool, kids.... if you think you've seen horror because you've watched 'The Exorcist' or Alexandre Aja's remake of 'The Hills Have Eyes', you ain't seen nothing yet.... the funny thing is that Fred doesn't glorify it.... in my opinion he makes it so animalistic and brutal that you can't help but feel dirty for watching it.... but that base instinct in you keeps you in your chair just to see what happens next.... you can't believe what's playing out in front of you.... but then suddenly when you think you can't take anymore, it cuts to something from daily life.... and you can breathe again.... that's part of the genius of these films.... and i hate to use that term in regards to such vile fodder, but it's true.... regardless of the potential backlash and disapproval i may hear from this review, these films stand alone as part of film history.... and i don't mean that they're the stuff of tributes during the Oscar's or something you're proud to have in your DVD collection.... i mean they're like the 'Blair Witch Project' or 'Paranormal Activity' or even 'Open Water'.... they provide something that hasn't been seen or done before.... they're original.... he took a concept and ran as far with it as he could.... and if it wasn't for the brilliant special effects, the charisma of the actor's and the sheer balls to make these films i don't think they'd stand out.... it'd just be another crappy indie movie shot on video and fed to the masses....

i want to end this by saying that these films are NOT for everyone.... hell, they're not for a lot of folks.... but if you've said, "I've seen it all and there's nothing new out there anymore.".... maybe these are for you.... maybe you're like me and you like to expand your horizons and being a lover of film, you want to see it all.... perhaps you're just a freak who wants to see how far the envelope can be pushed before it breaks.... maybe you're just the slightest bit curious about all the ultra-violence.... who knows....? i just felt inclined to say something about this series.... after watching them all in two days, i've dwelt on them ever since.... trying to wrap my head around what i saw.... feeling kind of icky and perverted for enjoying the ride, but at the same time feeling satisfied that i took it.... despite my fear.... you may not feel the same way.... you may hate me or Fred or even yourself for these films.... therefore, go into them with an open mind and a strong stomach.... and don't say i didn't warn you.

i'd give them 4 out of 5 stars.... with 'August Underground' being the strongest, followed by 'Penance' and 'Mordum' being last.... only because it seemed to focus the most on the gore and not the characters....

other movies like these....? 'Srpski Film aka A Serbian Film' perhaps....? these really stand alone as a genre in and of themselves.... "serial killer home movies"

trailer for 'August Underground':


trailer for 'August Underground: Mordum':

August underground's mordum

trailer for 'August Underground: Penance':

my brief thoughts on.... 'Isolation'

i remember the first time i saw the man eating cow in 'The Tick' comic book way back in the early 90's.... however, i never thought i'd see a movie that kind of portrayed that character in real life.... but this little Irish movie took that idea a bit and brought it to a whole different level.... granted there are no man eating cows.... but their are cows that kill.... and this ties together with the other review i put up here for 'Black Sheep' (2006).... it was my "Farmland Massacre" double feature.... right off the bat, i have to say that this movie is extremely well done.... it's old school special effects, no CGI.... it's a true creature feature like from the days of old.... the last one i saw that was similar to this was the movie 'Splinter'.... that's one of the reasons i give this movie a lot of props.... it was very gooey and gory and full of nasty bits.... all of it done by someone in a workshop.... not on a computer.... and i can really respect that.... it's just not done that much anymore.... and i also give this movie a lot of credit for originality.... i can honestly say that i've never heard of this premise, never seen anything similar, it's unique.... just for that reason it's worth it to watch it.... not too mention, the directing and cinematography and actors are great.... it's a very brooding and dark, gritty film.... and yes, it's about cows.

the story revolves around a single farmer who has agreed to have a cow of his experimented on by an outside group.... they're trying to create more fertile cows to increase production for milk, food, etc.... so basically the intentions are good.... however, something goes terribly wrong.... the cow that they're testing on is pregnant and the calf bites more than one person in utero and once it's out.... because of this, they have to kill the cow and eventually the mother.... but while examining the calf, they realize it was pregnant too.... soon after this, all hell breaks loose on the farm as people begin dying one after another.... it becomes a massacre....
i just happened across this movie on accident.... it was mentioned in a review for 'Black Sheep' (2006).... and was recommended as a follow up or tie in to the other movie.... and luckily it was OnDemand, so while i had 'Black Sheep' rented i could watch this one too.... i really recommend that you watch this.... as it's something you can see that's totally new.... it's a very fresh feeling movie.... i don't know why more people haven't heard of it.... it's one of those little gems that you have to hear about from word of mouth.... now, i've mentioned several times that there are cows and killing in this, but what does the killing is a cow in a way.... but it's something much more horrific in reality.... and the final act of the movie you really can feel the tension of the whole situation and it's got it's tense and scary moments.... it's a very effective movie.... and i tip my hat to the director and writer for creating such a tight little movie.... i gave it 3 out of 5 stars with a slight edging towards 4.... however, it may take another viewing before it pushes me over the edge.... you may think differently.... regardless.... add it to the queue and check it out.... maybe have some milk and cookies while watching it.

other films like this: 'Alien', 'Black Sheep' (2006)and 'Splinter'

my brief thoughts on.... 'American Zombie'

let me just start by saying this isn't your traditional shambling zombie movie.... or even your "BRAINS!" zombie movie.... these zombies are undead, walking, talking near humans.... as a matter of fact, you could barely tell they were undead unless you knew it.... it's an interesting premise to do this in a documentary style and to get some questions answered that you've maybe always wondered about.... it bothered me at first that they were normal talking people.... but they kind of explained it all by how there are 3 different kinds of zombies.... and each one functions at a different level.... the base level zombies are more of what we're all familiar with.... the next level can do basic things and work jobs, but aren't really high functioning.... and the highest level are basically human.... either way, over time i got used to it and just enjoyed the movie for what it was.... a mockumentary about zombies just trying to fit in and their annual gathering 'Live Dead'....

the plot involves several featured zombies and their different lives.... and it all leads up to the big gathering at the end.... it's hard to describe a plot to a documentary.... right....?all in all a worthwhile film.... 3 out of 5 stars.... for another take on an old theme, this my be for you.... just be prepared for something new.... i don't think i could enjoy a full length movie where the zombies are this human like.... i think the zombies in 'Return of the Living Dead' are about as verbal as i want them to get.... anyway.... check it out.... it's unique.

if you like this: call the director and ask them to make a sequel, because there isn't anything else quite like this.

my thoughts on.... 'The Rage'

when's the last time you had just flat out fun with a movie....? think about it.... and i don't mean i comedy..... i mean a b-grade horror flick....? last night i had the most fun i've had in a while.... granted i was disgusted for 90% of the film.... but that was part of the enjoyment.... the acting was way below normal standards, but i loved it.... the special effects were a mixed bag of awesomeness and awfulness, but it just made it all that much better.... and besides, how many movies have you seen with plague infested vultures who seem to have minds of their own....? not too many i would bet.... a cross dressing midget creature who needs subtitles....? people repeating the same lines over and over....? have i peaked your interest yet....? is your mouth watering and are you just chomping at the bit to put this in your instant queue on Netflix to watch it now or later tonight....? if not, maybe the rest of the review will convince you....

our story opens with a mad scientist trying to create a disease to overtake the world so that he can be the only one to offer the cure.... but not for any other reason than to get back his cure for cancer that was stolen from him by the drug companies.... who found it was more profitable to treat the disease than to offer a cure.... (seems like a good enough motive....) that leads us to a rave-ish party featuring the band Mushroomhead.... where we meat our group of hero's.... all of whom are enjoying themselves.... the next morning on their way back home, something happens that causes an accident that leads them right into the middle of the forest where diseased vultures begin to attack them.... in which they have to fight to survive.... (all because the mad scientist let one of his creations escape who was eaten by vultures after he died.... the rest is just an over the top romp of gore filled festivities....
starring in this movie is Erin Brown (aka Misty Mundae) and Reggie Bannister ('Phantasm').... a great due to say the least.... the script is silly, there are certain lines that are delivered that are hilarious.... and some that are just so bad that you groan.... let it not be said that this movie is a gore fest.... the blood, guts and icky stuff is way over the top.... everything is oozing and dripping.... blood drenched everything.... decapitations abound.... exploding heads.... it's all in good fun though.... it's a movie that would make Brian Yuzna proud.... the point of all of that was that if you have a weak stomach, this may not be the movie for you....

i gave this 3 out of 5 stars.... and that was with hesitation.... i almost wanted to give it 4, just because i felt so good after it was over.... like someone had just given me a giant glass of cold water after wandering the desert for weeks.... it was just such a nice change of pace.... and i'm not a huge gore hound.... but this movie just wouldn't have been the same without it.... it was almost like another character in the movie.... like the vultures.... i highly recommend that if any of this review made you interested and you have an hour and a half open in your schedule.... that you sit down with a bowl of popcorn and a soda and just have fun.... you really can't go wrong....

if you like this movie, check out: 'Re-Animator', 'Dead Alive' and 'Bad Taste'

my thoughts on.... 'Demons'

i've never been a fan of Italian horror films.... i just had to say that right off the bat.... for some reason they just never appealed to me.... i've seen several and tried to get into them, but the only one that i can say that i love and even own is Lucio Fulci's 'Zombi'.... but a friend of mine told me that i should check out the pair of Dario Argento produced films called 'Demons' and 'Demons 2'.... i was hesitant, but he insisted and i read the premise of the first one and it intrigued me.... so over this past weekend, i rented it from Netflix and last night i had the time to sit down and absorb the movie and give it the proper attention it needed....

the storyline begins with a strange man' with a silver mask and disfigured face, handing out free movie passes to a cinema called the Metropol.... the theater had been shut down for years, but this was the grand re-opening.... gradually we're introduced to several groups of people attending the premire and we're told little bits about them.... so as to make us worry about them when the poop hits the fan.... as the film begins, we find out that it's a horror film about Nostradamus and demons taking over the earth.... soon art begins to imitate life, when one women turns into a demon herself and begins infecting everyone else in the theater.... it's a fight for their lives to try and find a way out.... and that's all i'm going to give away.... sounds pretty intriguing, right....?
i have to admit and i'm not too big to say this.... i enjoyed this film from start to finish.... it was a lot closer to a zombie movie.... or '28 Days Later' than to anything else i've seen.... the virus spreads in the same way, for the most part, and the demons move fairly quickly.... which of course heightens the tension.... i think that's the reason that i really dug this movie.... was the original plot and the zombie-like similarities.... the special effects are overly gory.... the demons are extremely gooey and bloody.... the sets are used very effectively.... and it's amazing how much use you can get out of one movie theater for the plot of a horror movie....

hands down one of the first Italian horror movies i've seen in a long time that i enjoyed.... easily 3 out of 5 stars and highly recommended for zombie fans.... i might even go up to 4 stars on this one, once i see the 2nd one and find out where the story goes.... as i was a little let down by the end of this one.... and you'll see that for yourself if you watch it.... i want to take them as a whole piece of work, not just one film.... to sum this up, this movie comes Joel recommended.

if you enjoy this, check out: 'Zombie', '28 Days Later' and 'Dawn of the Dead' (2004)

my thoughts on.... 'Infection'

i like my J-Horror just as much as the next guy.... but they're always hit or miss.... when they hit, they REALLY hit.... but when they miss.... they miss.... i came into this movie with no expectations and no real knowledge of the storyline.... it just seemed to intrigue me.... and sometimes those are the best experiences at the movies.... when you just come into it blank.

the storyline is that a man who's bleeding out from the inside is being rushed to the nearest hospital that will take him.... but no one seems to want to take him in.... the only hospital that is even remotely close to where the ambulance is, happens to be a hospital on the brink of shutting down.... they're running out of supplies, the nursing staff is minimal at best and the doctors are all disgruntled.... but they decide to leave him there whether they want them to or not.... soon he bleeds out and they find out that the infection is spreading to all of them.... and that's where things get messy, literally.
overall, as a horror movie, it's got a lot of strong points.... it's very well done visually and the tension is built at a nice even pace.... you never know exactly what's going on and there always seems to be something strange lurking around every corner.... it's extremely well thought out by the director.... the story is somewhat interesting.... the characters are fairly well developed, but as with a lot of J-Horror.... it gets complicated and surreal.... and not always in a good way.... i have to admit that i really wanted to like this movie.... but in the end i was left feeling really flat....

just for the good stuff up until the end, i'll give it 3 out of 5 stars.... would i recommend it....? no. it's available on Netflix OnDemand.... so you could do worse than this movie.... a lot worse.... it just seems like a good idea was wasted on a lame ending.... and it's a damn shame because this could have been one of the greats.... a classic.... oh well, they can't all be winners.... and you have to have the bad to appreciate the good....

if you like this or things like this, see: 'Audition', 'Machine Girl' and 'Tokyo Gore Police'

my thoughts on.... 'The Descent' and 'The Descent: part 2'

when i first read about The Descent back before it came out, i wanted to see it.... then when i started to see the stills from the movie, i wanted to see it even more.... so when it came out on DVD, i bought it without even seeing it.... a risk....? yes. but i knew i was going to love it.... and i was not let down.... it lived up to every expectation that i had.... it combined my fear of small places and being trapped in a place you can't get out of that's pitch black.... Neil Marshall, the director, did an amazing job making you feel like you were the 7th member of the group that went into the cave.... he used every trick in the book to make this movie shine.... from the gut wrenching beginning all the way to the blood spattered ending.... he didn't let the horror fans down with the monsters, gore and blood....

the story involves Sarah who has a tragedy occur while on a thrill seeking adventure.... one year later, Sarah meets up with 5 of her friends for another thrill seeking trek into a cave.... they had intended on going to a well known cave where they would be safe.... instead, the girl who set up the trip, takes them to an unknown cave and doesn't tell them until it's too late to turn back.... they soon realize they're not alone and it's a fight for their lives to find an escape before they turn into fodder for the Crawlers....
this is a prime example of filmaking done right.... the director uses his locations to increase the tention and terror level in the film.... the creatures are frightening in every way possible.... from their movements to the sounds they make to they way that they kill.... it's a great movie for creature feature fans and gore hounds alike.... it also caters to those who want to see a movie with women in power over their fates and likes to see them rise to the occasion to kick some ass.... this movie has it all....

4 out of 5 stars easy.... without a second thought.... i recommend this movie as one of the best horror films of 2005.... but it doesn't stop their.... i soon heard they were making a sequel.... which is a dangerous game when you have such a strong opening story.... the director was no longer on board as the director, but he was still an executive producer.... so that made me feel a bit better.... but lets wait to talk about that until the next review....

if you like this.... the only other movie that's even close to being similar is 'The Cave'.... but stay away from that movie like the plague.

sequels are a dime a dozen these days.... with the direct to DVD market being saturated with unecessary sequels to movies that weren't that good to begin with.... or for an amazing film that then gets a crappy sequel in an attempt to start a franchise.... either way, it's difficult to find a good sequel.... and usually they get a theatrical release if they're worth anything.... so what about The Descent: part 2....? you ask. well, let's talk about it....

it picks up right where the first one left off.... the local police and expert cavers are searching in the wrong cave for the women that disappeared 2 days ago.... Sarah makes it to the local hospital, but has no memory of the past 2 days.... but for some reason, the sheriff decides he's going to take her back into the actual cave that they were in to lead the search party for the women.... they all go down and begin to search and soon they're introduced to the Crawlers as Sarah's memory starts to come flooding back.... it's a fight for everyone's life to make it out alive and without ruining the ending.... let's just say the ending left it wide open for a part 3....
despite the hesitation and apprehension i had about seeing this movie.... and the mixed reviews that i read.... i was pleasantly surprised.... it's a farily strong sequel and when you watch the first one right before watching this one, it makes a great night of horror film watching.... i enjoyed every moment of my revist of the original and the edge of my seat viewing of part 2.... the Crawlers are still just as creepy.... the cave still creates that feeling of claustrophobia.... the characters are a bit more of stereotypes than in the original.... but i can let it slide because of the quality of the film....

4 out of 5 stars for this one as well.... and if you've seen the first one, rent it and watch it again with this one.... or if you haven't, then watch them both together.... this is a good installment in what appears to be a possible franchise.... i just hope that if they do make a third, they don't destroy the joy that i felt with the first 2.... but i won't get my hopes up.... either way.... the first two are well worth your time.... so go out and rent them as soon as you can.... you won't regret it.... and if you do, i'd be suprised.... my only complaint is the very ending of part 2.... it's a bit of a let down.... but at the same time it peaked my interest.... so i guess it's a double edged sword....

if you like this movie.... again, there's not much more i can compare it too.... but i'll restate again to stay away from the far inferior 'The Cave' like your life depended on it.

my thoughts on.... 'Undead'

i've owned this movie for a few years now.... and if you think you've seen it all in the zombie genre..... then you need to see this.... it's a terrific little Austrailian low budget horror flick that is as fun as it is worthwhile to watch.... it reminds me a bit of early Peter Jackson fare.... but perhaps with a slightly larger budget.... i just recently re-watched it during a zombie movie marathon that i had and i had forgotten how much i enjoyed it.... and how refreshing it was compared to all the other zombie movies out there.... and trust me, you've never seen a movie quite like this.... it's funny, it's gory, it's got great action and it takes a whole new twist on an old theme....

without giving all the plot away.... i'll try and stick to the basics.... it seems that things are falling from the sky and turning the population into the living dead.... a small group of survivors hold up in an old farm house and try and protect themselves from the onslaught of the undead headed for the house.... but that's when it gets weird.... i don't think i could explain it if i wanted to anyway.... so it's better for you to just watch it for yourself....
our main hero is unique.... our main heroine is a beauty queen.... the rest of the cast are all fun to watch and extremely likable.... especially the head police officer.... he says the 'F' word so much he makes it an artform.... not to mention he's hilarious.... the movie is worth it just for that.... and the action scenes with our hero are pretty kick ass.... nice double gun, slow-mo, triple barreled shotgun fun.... and a few acrobatics to boot.... (and you don't really notice until the end that he's missing a front tooth....!)

this is a great little unknown gem of a movie that needs a cult following.... it's worth multiple watchings and i would give it a high 4 out of 5 stars.... there were a couple of things i would have changed if i could.... but nothing major.... all the people involved must have had a lot of love for the project, because it bleeds through every scene.... it's not available to watch OnDemand.... so you'll have to rent it.... (that or stop by the house to watch it with me some night.).... in the end, if you like zombie movies.... this one is for you.... a zombie movie made by people who love zombies and wanted to share a new twist to make you remember why you loved zombies in the first place....

if you enjoy this movie, check out: 'Dead Alive', 'Bad Taste' and 'Dellamorte Dellamore aka: Cemetery Man'

my thoughts on.... 'Cabin Fever 2: Spring Fever'

i've been the first in line to say that Eli Roth is one of the savior's of the horror genre.... along with a few select others.... he wrote and directed the original 'Cabin Fever'.... this movie has nothing to do with him.... and Ti West who directed it, wanted no association with it once the producers got done with it.... he felt they ruined it.... granted, i have no idea what it would have been like if they never got involved.... but i'm not so sure it would have been that much better....

if you saw the original then you know the basic premise.... a flesh eating virus is killing off people one by one.... and luckily it hasn't spread outside of the small town where it started.... in the sequel, it picks up RIGHT where the last one left off.... and continues the story.... but not for long.... and once the plot of this movie begins, the movie bears little resemblance to the original.... in this case.... the water that is contaminated with the virus has been shipped out.... and the first place it goes is to the local high school.... the rest kind of writes itself.... ie: bloody high school kids, attempts to stop the virus, the government getting involved.... etc.... your typical virus scenario. the first point where this movie fails is that it goes to much for the humorous side of the storyline.... granted the original was satirical and had it's comedy moments.... but it never went all out for the ha ha funny.... this one does.... or seems to.... and it doesn't do it very well.... the virus has no real rhyme or reason and doesn't react the same with everyone, like in the original.... and they go for the gross out factor in a major way in this.... and turn it comical.... whereas the original never took the effects of the disease as being funny.... those parts were always serious....

would i recommend this....? well, if you're a completionist like me.... then you'll want to watch it.... just be warned that it really doesn't hold a candle to the first one.... the only worthwhile thing is the return of Officer Winston.... i would give this a solid 3 out of 5 stars.... but no more than that.... i would love to see the directors cut.... and find out what he was really going for.... because i can't imagine what he could do differently to salvage the script for this.... i mean, the disease at prom....? save your time and watch 'Dance of the Dead' instead.... MUCH better movie about the prom and zombies....

if you enjoy this movie, check out: 'Dance of the Dead', 'Prom Night' and 'Return of the Living Dead' (not really virus movies, but prom themed and i guess you can qualify zombies as a virus based reaction to something nasty.)

my thoughts on.... 'Dead Snow'

You're sitting at home and considering what to watch. What's the first thing that comes to mind? A horror movie? A zombie movie? A Norwegian zombie movie? A Norwegian Nazi zombie movie? Well, that's what you've got on your hands with 'Dead Snow'. Granted, back in the hay day of the 70's zombie films, one of the most popular sub-genre's was the Nazi zombie movie. I mean, who doesn't want to see some zombies killed? Espcially if they're Nazi's! You'll find that with some limited seraching, you can find a lot of "classics" out there to absorb. You will need a little bit of spare time to watch them all, but it'll be worth it. 'Dead Snow' is the first time I've seen anyone delve back into this genre, since it was popular. It's been re-vamped for a modern audience, but it's for the best.

It starts out simple enough with some younger folks in a cabin in the woods. You then hear about a legend of a Nazi miliatary outfit who was on the lamb from prosecution after stealing all of the gold and precious items from the town. Shortly after, they disappeared. Slowly, over time, they became less of a reality and more of a boogeyman story of sorts. The young folks are warned that it might not be the best idea to stay in the area, due to the legeng, but they stay anyway. Soon.... they're over run by Nazi zombies! Go figure. The rest of the time is spent fighting for their lives.

One thing to keep in mind before you watch this film, is that the zombies aren't your typical zombie fare. They don't shamble, they don't lack intelligence and they don't avoid the use of weapons. These aren't your grandmother's zombies. However, if you can get over that fact, you'll really find this to be a very enjoyable film. It's fun, it's campy, it's bloody and it's way over the top! A real gem of a movie, in the rough.

All in all, a solid 4 out of 5 star movie. Also, a welcome one that is trying to revitalize a long lost sub-genre. It's made it fresh and new again. Something all the jaded zombie lovers out there can get behind. It's also an extremely fun movie, which pays homage to all of it's predecessors. There's not a previous zombie movie out there that doesn't get a little bit of a tip of the hat. That just makes 'Dead Snow', all that much better. It almost reminds me a bit of 'Dead Alive', but not quite as bloody. My suggestion to you? Check your brain at the door, rent this little slice of heaven and enjoy. It's just that simple. A great little movie, that I think qualifies as a masterpiece in it's sub-genre.

If you enjoy this movie, check out: 'Shockwaves', 'Oasis of the Zombies' and 'Evil Dead 2'

my thoughts on.... 'Laid To Rest'

last night i had the pleasure of watching a little low budget nasty called 'Laid To Rest'.... is it going to win any awards, no. is it going to re-invent the wheel, no. but it's an hour and a half of non-stop blood, guts, gore and icky stuff.... not too mention that the killer was fairly original and entertaining to watch and learn about.... and in a sea of less than stellar slasher flicks.... it's nice to find one that is a tad above the bar.... the basic premise is that a woman wakes up in a casket with no memory.... she soon finds out that she's being chased by a serial killer called Chrome Skull and we're off to the races....! she tracks down some help along the way and one random kill after another, more and more is revealed.... soon we've reached the climax of the film and you wonder where all the time went....? the stand out parts of this movie involve the gore.... the effects are above average and tend to overshadow the story, which is very simple in scope.... there are some violent kills, but nothing new or too inventive.... still, it's worth the price of admission.... one thing that left me feeling a bit let down by the end, was the lack of closure.... it seemed like we got a lot of build up to a slightly abrupt and unsatisfying ending.... it pays off, however not as well as i'd hoped.... i mean, they built up this killer so much that it would have left itself wide open for a franchise.... sadly, it probably won't happen.... but i've said too much.... (or not.) all that being said.... if you have Netflix, it's available OnDemand right now or to rent.... and i would say it's worth a night of popcorn and brainless slaying.... you won't find any great revelations and will probably feel slightly let down, but the rest of it is so strong that it holds up to the test of an above average slasher film.... and if this piece of bloody good fun is any indication of what the director and writer have in store for the future, then i'm eager to see what's next....

all in all: 3 out of 5 stars.... worth your time, but perhaps not worth repeated viewings.... check it out for yourselves and let me know what you think.... a killer for a new age.... one of cell phones, fast cars and video cameras.... but not for the faint of heart....

if you enjoy this movie, check out: 'Splinter', 'Scream' and 'P2'