The Fear Chamber: Movie Trailer and News

Author/Michael Allen

A new grisly thriller involving some very dark subject matter is making the rounds on the horror circuit via teaser trailer and all the latest information on "The Fear Chamber," can be found here. Nightlight Films has acquired North American distribution rights for gory horror flick "The Fear Chamber." Starring veteran actor Richard Tyson, moody Rhett Giles, and scream queen Bianca Barnett the feature involves the black market organ trade that has apparently moved from southeast Asia to North American shores. Shot in 1080p at 24 frames per second the film, in a digital format, will look and feel as if shot on on a quality 35mm reel. Foreign distribution is still being sought and the first disturbing trailer for "The Fear Chamber," can be seen here.

A synopsis for "The Fear Chamber," can be found here...

A highly psychotic man hunts down young women to kill them and sell their organs on the black market. Detective Nick Stevens has been chasing this killer for years and has to overcome this personal demons in order to conquer this brutal serial killer (NightLight).

Director: Kevin Carraway.

Writer: Lawrence Sara, and Kevin Carraway.

Cast: Richard Tyson, Steven Williams, Rhett Giles, Keesha Smith, Miranda Kwok, John Duerter, and Bianca Barnett.

A trailer for "The Fear Chamber," here...



Sources:

The Fear Chamber at NightLightFilms

Actress Bianca Barnett Homepage

Continue Reading!

Zombie Honeymoon 2 (ZH2): Fan Made One Sheet

Author/Michael Allen

Director David Gebroe remains very hush-hush as his film "Zombie Honeymoon 2." Only confirming that Tracy Coogan is set to reprise her role as Denise, into a straight continuation of the first film, Gebroe remains tight lipped on any possible plot developments in this first sequel to the very popular "Zombie Honeymoon." Likely due to the challenges that can come up on set and the difficulties of working with a creative budget film projects often remain quiet as to story and plot twists until near completion. However, a fan made one-sheet poster is now available from the film and once further details are confirmed they will posted here.

Director: David Gebroe.

Writer: David Gebroe.

Cast: Tracy Coogan.

Sources

Gebroe, David. Personal interview. 28 April 2009.

Continue Reading!

Chris Shadley's Nine Dead: Exclusive Pictures

Author/Michael Allen

As reported earlier this month "Nine Dead," from director Chris Shadley and starring Melissa Joan Hart as Kelley, is moving towards a release date once North American and international distribution is secured. In the meantime, Shadley has forwarded several never before seen photos for fans and the pictures show, for the first time, Shooter played by John Terry forefront and in action while the cameras were rolling. For those interested in the film there are several websites below for "Nine Dead," that if given a little more fan support might move this picture into the hands of horror enthusiasts a lot sooner. Have a look at all six photos past the break as this anonymous villain delights in torturing his prey all while behind darkened hood and mask.


* For full view click on each still.






Chip Bent as Sully with Melissa Joan Hart in an unknown location.











Shooter holding a gun to the camera.











Shooter now mobile.











Melissa Joan Hart looking for help via text message.











William Lee Scott as Jackson in the foreground.











Chris Shadley coaching Melissa Joan Hart before a scene.






For more information on "Nine Dead," check out the website:

Nine Dead Official Homepage

The Myspace page...

The Nine Dead Myspace Page

And Facebook support page...

Nine Dead Facebook Page

Continue Reading!

Albino Farm: Cast Information and Teaser

Author/Michael Allen

WWE performer Chris Jericho is set to showcase his acting talents in "Albino Farm," a straight-to-DVD feature from distributors MTI Home Video. "Albino Farm," involves a cannibalizing family in the backwoods who have a taste for...yes, you guessed right college kids. Along with a teaser trailer the films official homepage is available and from an initial viewing the film has some religious overtones that might enlighten viewers as to why the central villains appear so pig-like. Have a look inside at all the bloody fun including cast and crew information.

A synopsis for "Albino Farm," here...

"Albino...," follows a group of college students exploring the Ozark Mountains for a school assignment when they come upon mutated, redneck cave-dwellers (Shock).

Director: Joe Anderson, and Sean McEwen.

Writers: Joe Anderson, and Sean McEwen.

Cast: Chris Jericho, Richard Christy, Tammin Sursok, Alicia Lagano, Nick Richey, Sunkrish Bala, Duane Whitaker, Kevin Spirtas, Bianca Barnett, Troy Dunkle, Ryan Sheilds, Mike Strain, Paul Ford, Shelby Janes, and James & Joe Koenig.

The teaser for "Albino...," here...



For more information on "Albino Farm," have a look at the stylish official homepage that promises more information in the future...

Albino Farm Official Homepage

Sources:

Albino Farm at Shocktillyoudrop

Continue Reading!

Wrong Turn 3 Gets a Release Date

Author/Michael Allen

Straight-to-DVD horror feature "Wrong Turn 3," gets a vague release date. Probably one of the most underrated horror film series "Wrong Turn," and the sequels feature a group of deformed West Virginia hillbillies who have turned to cannibalism to satisfy that burning hunger inside. From director Declan O'Brien expect to see this film in the fall of '09 after all the summer blockbusters have died down. For now have a look at a short clip from the film and when a precise release date is announced the date will be posted here.

A synopsis for "Wrong Turn 3," here...

A group of people find themselves trapped in the backwoods of West Virginia, fighting for their lives against a group of vicious and horribly disfigured inbred cannibals (Internet).

Director: Declan O'Brien.

Writer: Alan B. McElroy and Turi Meyer.

Cast: Tom Frederic, Janet Montgomery, Tamer Hassan, Gil Kolirin, Tom McKay, Christian Contreras, Jake Curran, and Chucky Venice.

A trailer for "Wrong Turn 3," can be found here...



Sources:

Wrong Turn 3 Movie Stills at Upcoming Horror Movies

Continue Reading!

Dark Woods

Author/Michael Allen

Tracy Coogan has taken part in several feature films and plays throughout the world; now, this actress takes time out from a busy shooting schedule to talk about her central role as Susan Branch in the film "Dark Woods." This Irish born actress and producer has a connection to Canadian horror fans as her parents met and were married in Toronto, Ontario. Taking part in several upcoming films including the sex comedy “Good Guys Finish Last,” a dark comedy “The Devil in the kitchen,” and now appearing in romantic thriller “Dark Woods,” Tracy Coogan talks about her preparation for her role as a wife with cancer, hope in dark subject matter, and collaborating with Olivia Tracey on her latest project "Devil in the Kitchen."

Coogan’s list of acting credits is extensive and includes theatre performances in world renowned plays and films. Starring in the rugged Irish comedy “The Playboy of the Western World,” and timeless classic and thriller “Colleen Bawn,” at the New York Theatre Coogan later branched out to perform at the Irish Repertory Theatre. Woody Allen would cast her in his satire of Hollywood actors “Celebrity,” and now she can be seen in Jake Kennedy’s “Penance.”

Constantly creating Tracy Coogan will reprise her role as Denise from “Zombie Honeymoon,” in the currently unannounced “ZH2.” “Dark Woods,” will be Coogan’s eleventh feature film to date and Coogan has a lot to say about this psychological thriller that releases later this year. Have a look at Coogan’s film career, life, and work with several well known actors, actresses, and filmmakers in this one of kind interview.

(28DLA) Can you tell me a little bit your role in "Dark Woods," as Susan Branch?

(Tracy Coogan) “Susan is losing a battle with cancer. At this point now her disease is pretty advanced. She has gone past the point of no return. She is coming to terms with her marriage in the last part of her life. So, Henry takes her to their cabin to spend the last part of her life there. He wants to take care of her and he wants to take care of her on his own. I do not have the experience of coming to terms with a death of a close partner. I like the possibility of hope. The characters are holding on to the possibility of her getting better."

(28DLA) What kind of hope is there in the film as “Dark Woods,” deals with some darker subject matter?

(Coogan) “It is an interesting question. For Susan who dies there is hope. The hope, even with the possibility of death there is a letting go. The film does have some fairly dark subjects. Yet, do we hope these characters move on? We hope that they realize something more.

It is so funny I watched a screening of the film recently and some of the cuts did not make it into the film. The whole process when you are shooting, it is an interesting one, everuthing comes together on some level."

(28DLA) Does Henry get romantically involved with the young girl?

(Coogan) “That is not what you want to hear. There is that want that he cannot have fulfilled with Susan. Sometimes we find with characters and reality people get lost along the way. And this is what happens between Aleisha and Henry. There is some definite sexual tension between the characters. Is it right for Henry to approach Alicia? Morally that is up to the viewer. What do you do in this situation? What do you do when you are confronted with infidelity?"

(28DLA) Are there any other projects you would like to talk about? Right now you are working on “Devil in the Kitchen,” with your husband Herbert M. Brindl. Can you talk a little bit more about that project?

“Herbert wrote the script, ‘Devil in the Kitchen,’it is the screenplay of his short story ‘The Rescue,’ an almost autobiographical account of his adventures in the kitchen.

We also have Ollivia Tracey in the picture. I can remember watching Olivia Tracey when she won Miss Ireland; I remember watching her on television. We eventually crossed paths in Los Angeles as we were both in films that were at the same film festival. She ws in ‘Red Roses and Petrol,’ and I was in 'Zombie Honeymoon.' She is a big part of this project and we are really honored that she is a part of the film! Recently, she was voted 2009s Irish Woman of the Year by the Irish Fair Committee in conjunction with the City of Los Angeles. She is absolutely amazing, she is so down to earth, and she is gracious!

'The Devil in the kitchen,' will be directed by award winning German director Boris Schaarshmidt from 'Green,' and 'Return to Sender.' We are also very proud to have composer Patrick Kirst attached to 'The Devil...,' who wrote additional music for Disneys recently released documentary 'Earth.' He has also worked with Aaron Zigman on 'Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium," and 'Sex and the City: the Movie." He will also score the upcoming Swiss-German co-production 'Der Grosse Kater (The Great Cat),' which includes a European all-star cast led by award winning actor Bruno Ganz from 'Downfall.'"


(28DLA) I read that “The Devil in the kitchen,” is a comedy. Is the film horror in any way or a spoof?

(Coogan) “It is not a spoof, not at all! It is dedicated to all chefs and food critics around the world. It is a twisted dark restaurant comedy where you will find elements of horror, romance, and suspense."

(28DLA) Are there any roles that you would like to take part in for the future?

(Coogan) “'A Woman Under the Influence,' a John Cassevetes movie starring Gena Rowlands and Peter Falk. I like these types of roles. I do not want them to do a remake, God no, but if I had to choose roles those would be the types I am after. 'Francis,' 'Le Vie en Rose,' what a dream role for Marion Cotillard. I am drawn to these roles. I like the psychological aspect of these roles and there is so much to learn for these types of roles.

For Susan I researched a lot and talked to a lot of people. How does mental illness affect someone? I watched a lot of documentaries. She is dealing with a lot of dementia. She is foretelling her future. It was fun to research for that role. I watched a documentary on Alzheimers for this role. It is a lot of work and it is exciting! There is a lot to show. That is what scares me with these types of roles; I want to make sure I do it the best I can. How do you portray the physical aspect? Everybody is different. I would love to explore those types of roles a lot more. I like the idea of the audience being inside of that character, their mind…”

For more information on Tracy Coogan and her film productions have a look at her homepage here…

Tracy Coogan Homepage

Also, for more information on “Dark Woods,” including cast and crew check here…

Dark Woods at IMDB

And for information on Tracy Coogan’s forthcoming film project, with husband and talent promoter Herbert M. Brindl, visit “The Devil in the Kitchen,” here…

The Devil in the Kitchen Official Homepage

Continue Reading!

Hush (2009): A Movie Review

Author/Michael Allen

A film from first time director Mark Tonderai "Hush," focuses on moral responsibility, human trafficking, and the love between central characters Beth and Zakes. Receiving financing from the UK Film Council and currently being distributed through North America by IFC Films "Hush," is a tightly wound thriller that primarily utilizes action sequences in place of dialogue to tell a tale of human depravity. Intense throughout the film offers well executed action sequences and a flair for the imaginative in ninety-one minutes flat.

The plot and story mostly revolves around characters Beth (Christine Bottomley) and Zakes (William Ash) who, unbelievably, encounter human trafficking on the English M-1. After witnessing a woman caged in the back of a generic white lorry Zakes reports the incident to police, but carries on as if business as usual. This scene hints at the films underlining message that each of us, the viewers, have a moral responsibility to look out for each other or seek justice in difficult circumstances. However, Zakes does not realize this in the early scenes and after losing his girlfriend, to the same human trafficker (Andreas Wisniewski), he finally decides to become the hero temporarily as he chases, beats, becomes crucified, and then dispatches the villain via cargo container in the final few scenes.

"Hush," for a first time outing is devilishly clever in its execution of story. Despite a lack of dialogue in the second half of the film Tonderai manages to find his stride while displaying, subtly, a second craft his love of djaying throughout the film. Not really adding much in the way of uniqueness to the man versus man, or hero versus villain story Tonderai does deliver enough twists along the way to keep a viewing surprising at times and intense during others.

Few flaws, with the exception of a couple continuity errors, means that the film holds together on a visual level, but due to an uncomplex plot "Hush," seems to leave the memory shortly after viewing, even after months of anticipation. Some of the elements that the film connects with correctly is the use of impressionistic lighting on the M-1 with the effective use of yellow colouring. As well, the acting from a semi-experienced cast comes off believably and becomes enjoyable to watch as characters battle each other in various settings. The arguments, or ups and downs between characters Beth and Zakes is also full of intense dialogue initially and the sub-plot of infidelity is a very common challenge that viewers will be able to connect with. On the other hand, the sparseness of Theo Green's score that is absent in parts and too subtle in other takes away from a possible heightening of intensity. And the unbelievability of human trafficking occurring in England does come of as imaginative, but fails on a realistic level.

After taking in "Hush," from beginning to end most viewers will feel they have gotten there moneys worth and that the ninety-one minute visit through Yorkshire, England was a fun experience. From Mark Tonderai this is an excellent first outing and here is hoping that this director and writer continues his filmmaking career into the future. Also, emphasizing the acting abilities of Christine Bottomley, William Ash and "28 Days Later," actor Stuart McQuarrie the success of "Hush," and the ability to receive international distribution, with the help of IFC Films, means that these actors will likely be seen in future film productions.

"Hush," can now be seen at the IFC Films video-on-demand website as of April 8, 2009. Winner of the British Independent Film Award for Best Achievement in Production this film must be seen by fans of intense thrillers that are light on dialogue and full of action. Visit the IFC Films website below for more details, or the films official website for ordering information.

7 Crushed Skulls out of 10.

"Hush," at IFC Films...

Hush at IFC Films Video-On-Demand

"Hush," myspace page below...

Hush Homepage

Continue Reading!

Terrorism Now Worldwide

Author/Michael Allen

Joseph Dickstein of Lightning Entertainment has acquired North American and United Kingdom distribution rights for "Bio-Dead," a futuristic, post-apocalyptic, science fiction thriller starring Derek Long (Socket, 3-Day Weekend, Black Dawn) and Matthew C. Norton (America's Next Top Model, G-Spot). From first time director and screenwriter Stephen J. Hadden "Bio-Dead," will be receiving a video-on-demand August 2009 initial release date; then, the DVD will be available for fans worldwide shortly after that. Already a teaser trailer for "Bio-Dead," is available along with a whole slew of movie stills from the films homepage both of which can be found below.

A synopsis for "Bio-Dead," can be found here...

"Set in the not-too-distant future, “Bio-Dead,” takes place during the aftermath of a bio-terrorist attack that has killed twelve million people and rendered Southern California uninhabitable. The once thriving mecca has now become a contaminated wasteland known as “The Zone”. Hazmat teams are dispatched into “The Zone” to search for survivors and document all casualties (Lightning Media)."

"When a lone hazmat team enters a seemingly abandoned building after dark, the men begin to experience terrifying hallucinations and soon realize that they are not alone. Trapped inside the compound with no escape, the terrified team finds themselves locked in a struggle for survival against a vicious predator...and each other (Lightning Media)."

Producers: Manfred Drews II and Paul W. Hazen.

Additional cast: Tony Williams, Rick Hall, Jacob W. Gentry.

A teaser trailer for "Bio-Dead," can be found here...


Bio-Dead from AO on Vimeo.
For more information on "Bio-Dead," have a look at the films official homepage below...

Bio-Dead Homepage

Sources:

Lightning Entertainment Group

Continue Reading!

GPS: An Interview with DJ Perry

Author/Michael Allen

DJ Perry is a writer, actor and producer for several films across genres. His recent film credits include "Ghost Town: The Movie," and "Blood Ties;" as well, this prolific filmamker has over a dozen other projects currently in pre or post-production. Now, Perry takes some time out from his busy acting and writing schedule to talk briefly about "GPS," an adventure tale that has recently been released and reported here (March 31, 2009). Taking on the role of antagonist in "GPS," Perry uses a duality in his characterization to offer something special for film fans and some of the details on his approach to acting and future DJ Perry film productions can be found here.

(28DLA) Can you tell me about your role in the film "GPS?" What type of a process does an actor, like yourself, go through in preparation for playing any type of a role?

(DJ Perry) "I play Sam a rival treasure hunter in “GPS the Movie” released recently to DVD. I will let you into something and maybe viewers will notice. I had read this Johnny Depp interview in Playboy where he talked about blending fictional or actual people into his roles. I think the Keith Richards and Jack Sparrow mix became well known. I had used this technique once in “Judges,” playing the bounty hunter Buddy Colt infusing the role with a little "Blaze of Glory," Jon Bon Jovi. Sam’s role required someone who is crass and loud, complains and the first person I thought of was Archie Bunker from the “All in the Family,” TV show. So, Sam is a nice blend of humor and asshole."

(28DLA) What was the experience like playing Sam in "GPS?" Did you enjoy becoming the villain in this feature?

(Perry) "The villain is always fun to play. Sam was partnered with Hallie Shepherd who plays his love interest Frankie. Despite the manly name she is a hot blonde so no Brokeback "GPS," here. Instead, bad boy gets the hot girl. I also got to punk out leads Bob and Andrew played by Paul Proios and Daniel Magill. So, I enjoyed it immensely!"

(28DLA) In the film your were working with Eric Colley (Going Straight, Observation Room). What was your experience like working with director and screenwriter Eric Colley?

(Perry) "First, I will also add that my Frankie, Hallie Shepherd and Sean Gleaves also are credited with the scripts which I think was a great mix of thriller and humor. It had that great 80s movie feel. Eric Colley is very cool to work with and open to ideas. That said he also has a strong vision of what he wants and is happy to explain to an actor why he wants to go in a certain direction. The other great thing about Eric is that he IS an actor so he knows what we are asking for in terms of direction. I would very much like to work with Eric again in the future."

(28DLA) Perry you have over a dozen films in pre production or nearing completion including the dramatic thriller "The Stalker Within," and an action adventure, which you wrote, "Timberwolf," are there any other projects that you would like viewers to know about?

(Perry) "I have got a slate of films including three westerns "Wild Michigan," "Scarlet Creek," a pot movie "Buds," a comedy "The Science of Cool," a crime drama "A State of Hate," and I just finished a script for a tighten on a sword and sorcery picture "Pandemonium," working with a UK/Romania company. So as you can see I’m keeping busy.

Horror fans be looking for “Dog,” and “Blood Ties,” coming out this year!"

Special thanks to talent scout and public relations manager Herbert M. Brindl for facilitating the interview.

For more information on films from DJ Perry visit the Collective Development Incorporated website below...

Collective Development Inc. Homepage

Also, visit Perry's fansite below...

DJ Perry Fan Club

And for more information on "GPS," have a look at a preview of the feature here on 28dayslateranalysis.com:

GPS at 28DaysLaterAnalysis

Continue Reading!

Step into the Darkness

Author/Michael Allen

Herbert Brindl from the heart of Hollywood drops me another line on "Dark Woods." The film, which is psychologically themed, involves infidelity and terminal illness and "Dark Woods," is currently moving towards a future release date. Despite the serious subject matter the first trailer and one sheet poster have a distinct gloomy atmosphere that manages to heighten the films tension. As well, first time director Michael Escobedo steps behind the camera in this horror film that focuses primarily on atmosphere and story. Have a look at the first full length trailer inside.

A synopsis for "Dark Woods," here...

A young married couple moves to a secluded area to cope with the wife's terminal illness. As the wife's condition gets worse, the husband's growing detachment from her forces him into a tumultuous relationship with a local teenage girl whom he rescues from a sexual assault (Quiet).

Director: Michael Escobedo.

Writer: John Muscarnero.

Cast: James Russo, Tracy Coogan, John Muscarnero, Mary Kate Wiles, Mark Shady, Corey Mendell Parker, and Martine Jean.

A trailer for "Dark Woods," below...


Dark Woods from AO on Vimeo.

For more information on "Dark Woods," visit the homepage below...

Dark Woods Homepage

Actress Tracy Coogan's homepage:

Tracy Coogan

Sources:

Dark Woods at Quiet Earth

Continue Reading!

Going Global

Author/Michael Allen

Herbert Brindl drops me a line on "GPS," an action thriller set in the woods of the Pacific Northwest. Involving a group of enthusiastic treasure hunters in search of millions this group will have to contend with other adventurists with the same goal. Released recently on DVD this feature involves DJ Perry a prolific actor and the stylish writings of Eric Colley. Not to be missed the theatrical trailer can be found here and for more information check out the "GPS," homepage in the sources section.

A synopsis for "GPS the Movie," here...

A group of adventure seeking college kids embark on a GPS treasure hunt in the Northwest wilderness. They are led to believe they will find two million dollars in cash. When they arrive at the treasure location they find what appears to be a grave. They dig up the grave to find a small coffin. What they find inside is shocking. Are the contents of the coffin real or is it all part of the game (GPS)?

Release Date: March 31, 2009.

Rating: Restricted for some violence.

Director: Eric Colley.

Writer: Eric Colley, and Hallie Shepherd.

Cast: Daniel Magill, Paul Proios, Nicola Anderson, Danielle Arnold, Artine Brown, Erika Swan, Jeff D. Howard, Hallie Shepherd, and DJ Perry.

A trailer for "GPS," here...

GPS the Movie Trailer


Sources:

GPS the Movie Homepage

Continue Reading!

Light in the Darkness

Author/Michael Allen

28DLA supporter and talent agent Sandra L. Rostirolla drops me a line on "Callous," an independent from director Joey Lanai. Premiering at the Riverside Rilm Festival, in California, the film tells the tale of a Native American dealing with family abuse this Friday April 24. Also, highlighting the musical score of another supporter to 28DLA Kurt Oldman the films musical soundtrack is rich in acoustical guitars and haunting instrumentals. Some of Oldman's work along with additional information on "Callous," can be found at the films website past the break.

A synopsis for "Callous," from the Riverside Film Festival...

Callous is an unpredictable and violent ride on the shoulders of Garrett Blackfoot. This once-abused fragile boy is now a single father haunted by the demons of his childhood. In denial of his Native American lineage, he is brought face to face with the reality that there is a spiritual plane and the things he saw in the shadows as a child may be more than just imagined. His own mother is the catalyst of his painful youth and devourer of his future. He must wrestle with his best intentions for his daughter, a race against time to save his dying brother, and the unceasing effort to contain a rage sown from the seeds of despair, abandonment and revenge (Riverside).

Release Date: April 24 (3535 Riverside Plaza Drive Riverside, California 4:45)

Director: Joey Lanai.

Writer: Chris Billett, and Joey Lanai.

Cast: Joey Lanai, Kari Nissena, Madison Nicole Alexander, Thom Michael Mulligan, Brian Groh, Seth Adams, Brenda Hattingh, Paul Major, and Jamie Wilson.

A trailer for "Callous," can be found here:

Callous Homepage

For additional information on Kurt Oldman visit his homepage below:

Kurt Oldman Homepage

Sources:

More Films at the Riverside Film Festival and Show Schedules

Continue Reading!

Remember to Turn the Safety Off

Author/Michael Allen

A short film that is gaining some buzz from the Tribeca Film Festival is "Glock," a slightly gory film from writer, director, and actor Tom Everett Scott. Premiering at the festival this Friday (April 24) this fifteen minute film will cover everything from bloody torture to thrilling chase scenes. Have a look at the full trailer for "Glock," which is currently searching for worldwide distribution, below.

A synopsis of "Glock," here:

Glock centers on a promising new spy who is given a cell phone by his agency and told to wait for his first mission. However, the phone never rings, and our hero slowly descends into a downward spiral of heartbreak and frustration (Tribeca).

Showings: April 24, April 29, May 2, and May 3 (Tribeca Film Festival)

Director: Tom Everett Scott.

Writer: Michael McMillian, and Tom Everett Scott.

Cast: Tom Everett Scott, Ciaran Hinds, Stephen Root, Michael McMillian, Krysten Ritter, and Rhys Coiro.

For a trailer on "Glock," check here:


Glock Trailer from Walleye Pictures & Sound on Vimeo.

Sources:

Glock at Vimeo

Glock at Tribeca

Continue Reading!

The Real Thing

Author/Michael Allen

One of the shining stars at the Tribeca Film Festival is "Paintball," an independent Spanish film from director Daniel Benmayor. One of only three horror films currently playing at the Tribeca Film Festival "Paintball," along with "Hysterical Psycho," and "The House of the Devil," can now be seen by horror film fans on the east coast. From director Benmayor and screenwriter Mario Schoendorff "Paintball," makes a social commentary on our tribalist society and how the role of violence, in various media forms, still remains relevant to society today. Also, adding in several tricks of the camera, first time director, Benmayor will add a visually appealing landscape that will thrill those fortunate enough to receive initial screenings. Have a look at the available details for "Paintball," here and let us all hope that "Paintball," also shows at the 2009 Los Angeles Film Festival this summer.

The synopsis for "Paintball," below...

Eight strangers convene in a remote forest for an expensive experts-only paintball retreat. They enter the game at full throttle, but already something is not right. The rules have changed and more is at stake than they expected. This frenetic thriller is akin to a live-action video game, but getting to Level 10 does not seem to guarantee anything (Tribeca).

Release Date: Currently playing.

Rating: Unknown.

Director: Daniel Benmayor.

Writer: Mario Schoendorf.

Cast: Brendan Mackey, Jennifer Matter, Patrick Regis, Neil Maskell, Laione Perez, and Anna Casas.

A trailer for "Paintball," here...



For more details on the film visit the official "Paintball," homepage found here:

Paintball Homepage

Sources

Paintball at IMDB

Paintball Synopsis at Traileraddict

Paintball at Tribeca

Continue Reading!

Lunarcy!!

Author/Michael Allen

Dan Fogler, actor and playwright, steps behind the camera to tell a tale of insanity and horror in grainy black and white. Part of theatre troupe Stage 13 Dan Fogler meant for "Hysterical Psycho," to be a an acting exercise for his cast, but the film blossomed into something grander. Set to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, this April 24, the film will offer a deaf mute sister for laughs and various offings of characters that will entertain those fortunate enough to live in the New York greater metropolitan area. Have a look at the trailer and synopsis for the film; then, pray that Tony award winning Fogler makes his way over to the sunny west coast or finds wider distribution for his cabin-in-the-woods thriller.

A synopsis for "Hysterical Psycho," here...

The site of some ancient, angry goings-down between the moon and the earth, rural Moon Lake now holds the strongest amount of insanity-inducing lunar radiation on the planet. When a New York theater troupe travels to those snowy woods to "find themselves," one by one, each member begins to get killed. But who is the killer among them? Did the lunar radiation turn one of the thespians into a crazy killer? And what's up with the groundskeeper and his deaf-mute sister (Tribeca)?

Release Date: April 24, 2009.

Rating: Unknown.

Director: Dan Fogler.

Writer: Dan Fogler.

Cast: Noah Bean, Lennon Parham, Kelly Hutchinson, Sarah Saltzberg, Charissa Chamorro, Randy Baruh, Ariel Shafir, Thomas Michael Sullivan, and Kate Gersten.

A "titillating," spoof of horror films that take place in the woods here:



For more information on "Hysterical Psycho," visit the homepage found here:

Hysterical Psycho Homepage

Sources:

Hysterical at Cinematical

Hysterical at IMDB

Hysterical at Tribeca

Continue Reading!

A Chilling Experience

Author/Michael Allen

Director: J. T. Mollner

Writer: J. T. Mollner

Noremake Productions comes through with the mind-bending short film "The Red Room." Delivering the right amount of lighting effects and characterizations "The Red Room," delivers in a few minutes what many full feature films cannot in an hour and a half, an entertaining, sophisticated viewing experience. Director J. T. Mollner amps up the tension in the film, with various photography techniques, while Mikos Zavros as Nicholas Rowe and Nathan Russell as Dr. Hardley Prince work off of each others performances to make the screenplay for "The Red Room," shine.

The plot involves character Rowe partaking in some criminal activity, for money, with temporary business partner Dr. Hardley Prince. Meeting in a dark, well-lit parking lot an additional meeting location is discussed and once at Rowe's apartment the story moves into very grey territory.

Showing off the city landscapes cinematographer Kevin Atkinson uses varying colours to create for a very surreal visual experience. Changing the colours of backdrops from purples to oranges and back again "The Red Room," amplifies the visual appeal by deliberately contrasting the intensity of lighting sources. Only the scene transitions, which use bright reds and blues, stand out more strongly than the lighting in the picture itself.

The story and plot remain straight forward as the short runtime of fourteen minutes means that every shot must serve a purpose and move the film on towards the climactic ending involving a very clever twist. Not skimping on characterizations Dr. Hardley Prince and Nicholas Rowe are fleshed out in the sparse time frame, but only surface details of each character are shown, initially, to the crowd. Heightening the tension in the final few scenes the writing utilizes a clever camera technique to slow down the final story reveal that will not be given away here.

"The Red Room," has already had a premiere at the SoCal Independent Film Festival in 2008 and copies of the DVD are rare. So, if viewers would like to the see the film for themselves, and this reviewer recommends that you do, contact Mikos Zavros or other Noremake Producion business partners at the pages listed below.

8.5 Greyish Skulls out of 10.

The homepage of Mikos Zavros actor in "The Red Room," and business partner of Noremake Productions:

Mikos Zavros' Homepage

Director and writer J. T. Moller's homepage:

J. T. Mollner's Homepage

Continue Reading!

Breath of Hate

Author/Michael Allen

As a child and teenager I became interested in horror films from the first time I saw Gunnar Hansen swing a chainsaw, at Dennis Hopper, in "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2." Unknown to me at the time there was and additional world full of the undead, pin-headed villains, and demon possessed girls who were each anxious to scar my perceptions of reality. Now, I will soon get the chance to replay the trauma of my youth in 2010 when Wes Laurie puts the final ink on his dark screenplay for "Breath of Hate."

Envisioning a world gone awry "Breath of Hate," will sear my memory again as cultists from a psychiatric ward, terrorize the innocent and destroy hope for a happy tomorrow. In Wes Laurie's new script there will be dark comedy, romance, and for horror fans lots of thrilling goretastic sequences. Blending several genres together with a focus on characters throughout; horror enthusiasts will get a greater taste for the production after shooting begins this summer. Have a look at some snippets from Laurie's latest production "Silent Night, Zombie Night," and all the bloody details from his next gritty project "Breath of Hate."

(28DLA) Wes, how did you meet Sean Cain and get involved with Velvet Hammer Films for the film project "Silent Night, Zombie Night?"

(Wes Laurie) "Basically I got the money to make a movie through my production company Arsoncuff Entertainment and Sean had a movie ready to go. He had a script he had written that was primed and ready to be shot (previously I think he had set it up and people did not come through with the money). So, I made a deal with him to make his movie first and then one of my scripts secondly; a two-fer kind of deal if you will. Velvet Hammer Films and ArsonCuff Entertainment are 50/50 partners on these two movies.

I met Sean when I interviewed him for a horror website I was writing for. I also reviewed his movie 'Naked Beneath The Water,' but had nothing to do with the production of it. The story behind the making of that movie is quite interesting in its own regard as he made it a long time ago and then got the chance to re-shoot 60% of it and release it for a second go round. I was quite honest in my review of it and stated it was a good example of indie filmmaking and the issues that arise, making 'Naked Beneath The Water,' quite interesting to watch from a filmmaking aspect, perhaps film students should see it in a class. Though, I think Sean may even refer to his first baby as, 'it is what it is.' I am sure he still loves it all the same. 'Silent Night, Zombie Night,' was a chance for him to take another swing and as the party bringing in the big chunk of the financial backing I hope I was accommodating enough for him to feel he got close enough to making the movie he wanted to make. I mostly stayed hands off and let him keep control of every aspect that he needed to make it his art."

(28DLA) Can you introduce readers to Arsoncuff Entertainment, your production company, and talk a little about the path that you have traveled to bring Arsoncuff to where the company is today?

(Laurie) "As for ArsonCuff Entertainment, it was technically founded in just 2008, though the name is one I have had with me since my teen years. ArsonCuff was a detective from some noir style tales I used to write. In kindergarten I wanted to be a policeman, but by first grade I was a writer and have been ever since. I was born and raised in Missouri and movies have always been a huge part of my life watching everything I could get my hands on and having a Grandma that indulged such behavior on the weekends. Eventually, I combined my loves of movies and writing and moved to California because some folks liked what they read. Unfortunately for me I moved to Cali' the same year as the writers' strike and the people interested in my work went quiet due to such events. However, I did write a horror comedy script, entitled 'Baghead,' that a newly founded Canadian company wanted to produce. The project was never completed, as that company dissolved before they got too far. Oddly enough another movie from the Duplass brothers named 'Baghead,' was released around then. Their movie is quite cute, nothing like the silly gorefest I had written. I am not a patient person when it comes to projects and I am a massive multi-tasker, so instead of focusing on selling scripts I decided to figure out how to finance them. This leads us to the present circumstances and I will have made two movies by the end of 2009. It will not stop."

(28DLA) "Silent Night, Zombie Night," was recently at the LA Weekend of Horrors this past weekend and the first trailer was shown before "Live Evil." How was the fan response for your trailer and the reception of "Silent Night, Zombie Night," at the event?

"Thus far most of the responses have been overall positive. We have had a lot of support from a lot of different folks. Naturally there have been those who have commented on the movie sounding like a 'B-movie,' or 'stupid,' However, even most of the people saying that have gone on to state that is just the way they like their movies any way. The teaser trailer is an action packed display of some of our gore which flowed day and night during production, soaking all of our paperwork as well. People tell me they've had fun seeing it and that was more or less the goal, having fun is what it is all about. The next trailer will probably be the 'drama,' trailer for it. As for the Weekend Of Horrors, Fangoria has been great in getting us press on the project. Sean Decker over there is a stand up guy. So, naturally we repaid him by dressing him up like a zombie, shooting him, and making him fall in the dirt."

(28DLA) Why do you think so many fans connect with horror? And what is the appeal for you or for fans with the zombie sub-genre?

(Laurie) "I am a fan of more 'bizarre,' things and the horror genre gives a storyteller a lot of freedom to explore taboos and beyond. I am not one to get all philosophical about why people love them and identify with them, but in a round about way, what you see with the horror fans is the same dedication and spirit you see with comic book fans and comic movie conventions. Really if you took the time to compare, all those iconic horror villains are basically superheroes too. As for zombies, looking at it from a filmmaking stance and considering it was to be my first production credit, sounded like fun. It would involve lots of makeup and bloody effects, the more chaos the merrier!

My first love in movie making I will confess is not horror, but interesting characters and entertaining stories; regardless of genre. My favorite movie is most likely Magnolia with P.T. Anderson being one of my favorite directors. Charlie Kaufman would probably be one of my favorite screenwriters. ArsonCuff Entertainment will not solely focus on horror in the future, or we might, but not on purpose. Might just be the cool stories we want to tell have horror elements. As for Velvet Hammer Films if you check their website you will find a trailer for director Jim Wright's movie 'Crossroads.' It is a short film, based off of a full feature script he has. It is actually more of a drama than horror and stars Jack Forcinito; the lead from "Silent Night, Zombie Night." Heck, Sean Cain's 'Silent Night, Zombie Night,' was inspired by Roman Polanski's 'Knife In The Water.'

From a business viewpoint horror movies are an easier sell thanks to the wonderful fans making such a strong market for them. However, that leads to a lot of people trying to just cash in with crap. I hope our crap looks and smells better than most crap though. A lot of people put in a lot of hard work."

(Mike Allen) What was the strangest event you saw or experienced on set for "Silent Night, Zombie Night?"

(28DLA) "There was something strange and magical about watching actor John Karyus on his knees in full zombie get-up, screaming out like some sort of demonic cat being sodomized in the middle of a Los Angeles neighborhood, right before actor Andy Hopper starts chopping at his head with a machete.

I guess what tends to make for the best stories are the LAPD stopped shooting one day and then the LA Fire Department. Someone called in that there were gangs at war in the street. The LAPD flew overhead in a helicopter and told us all to sit on the curb and drop our weapons. Then the squad cars came rushing around the corners and shotgun toting officers on foot hustled in as well. I was in full zombie makeup myself and blind from having my actual contacts out to wear special zombie ones. They rounded up our gang of zombies, had a laugh and then left. On the last day of shooting, just to show how our luck was, the Fire Department pulls on to the set. Two houses down they had an emergency call I guess, but as they came down the street they saw the prop cop car from our movie parked out front and mistook it for the house. Two fire trucks and an ambulance. The fire department guys hung around for a while getting autographs from the zombies."

(Mike Allen) Now that you have finished writing the script for "Breath of Hate," can you give fans a little taste as to what to expect from the film?

(Laurie) "'Breath Of Hate,' should be dark and moody, with elements of horror and romance, blended with the brutal drama. Of course some humor is present as well, as it always is in life. I really tried to bring some heart into the gore and kink of the story, which follows a call girl named Love who has decided to quit her job. For the first time she sees herself having a future with a romantic interest, and as a strong willed woman and a survivor in a dark world she must break down her walls to let this future happen. Of course her last job ends up dropping her into the hands of three escaped mental patients, who are more than happy to help break her down. And the leader of the trio envisions a spiritual revolution sweeping the world with him at its head. He becomes convinced that Love is the final piece he has been waiting for to fulfill his visions.

Right now people are thinking this is a 'torture,' movie, but hopefully those people are going to be pleasantly surprised at what it truly is. If we pull it off right, 'Breath Of Hate,' has the potential to be intimately unsettling, which could be scary, yet hopefully pack a punch in the emotional entertainment department as well. Or I could have just skipped all of that and said 'dinosaur vs cheerleader.' Oh yeah, and I tried to cater to Quentin Tarantino's foot fetish with the script."

(28DLA) "Breath of Hate," is your first screenplay to move into the pre-production phase of filming what was the writing process like for you? How many revisions have you made to the original script?

"I am always writing. Writing, to sound passionately silly, is breathing for me. I am always working on a script and I write very fast. The first draft of 'Breath Of Hate,' did not take me so long to write and Sean Cain chose to direct it off of that draft, but I always have to keep updating something to make it even better. The script has been finished for months, but I have lost count of the revisions I have chosen to do. Currently there are two versions of the script, with one specially written to cater to a different type of actor than the other for the main baddie. Because I am constantly writing and coming up with new ideas, since we have not started shooting yet, I like to revisit 'Breath Of Hate,' to just keep it fresh for myself.

(28DLA) When you were writing the script for "Breath of Hate," did you have anyone in mind for the central villain? Have you contacted anyone to play this part in your film?

(Laurie) "No, I did not write the script with anyone particular in mind for the villain. I cannot really discuss casting things right now because I think any actor we approach should be made to feel like they were our top pick, right? I can say that the 'villain,' of the script, ala the head of the weirdos causing Love some grief is not who I actually consider the 'evil,' bad guy of the script. I think the smaller role of Love's pimp is actually the bad guy of the script.

As far as casting goes I have indeed talked to several, very recognizable names for acting bits. 'Names,' are expensive and when it all comes down to our final decision I think I am more interested in making a good movie as opposed to trying to sell it. Obviously we want to sell it and 'name,' cast helps do that for you, but talent is talent for me and if the guy willing to do it for a cookie fits the role perfectly I want to give the guy a cookie and his shot. Of course if you give an actor a cookie, they are going to want some milk, and catering by the way gets real expensive and I would like to make sure we feed our actors a glorious spread. So, maybe we turn down Tom Cruise and buy a big ham instead."

(28DLA) I have noticed Tarantino's love for feet in "Pulp Fiction," and "Kill Bill Vol. I," among others. What is the fascination with feet for certain writers and directors?

(Laurie) "I would not say all writers and directors have such a fascination. However, for those that do, you can look at it like this: 1. turning on the foot people is only going to make them want to see and talk about your movie. 2. Non-foot people are not exactly going to turn away from a movie if there are some shots of feet; they will either pay them no mind or find them possibly gross depending on the scene and movie gross might be called for.

Everyone has something that 'does it,' for them and most of us are sexual beings so it ends up expressed in our art. I think women are the ultimate symbols of what is considered beautiful in our world and when a girl has it 'going on,' that extends to her feet for sure. There is nothing creepy about it.

Not to get too personal here, but I would say I could be turned on simply by a girl being barefoot, but then again I could be turned on by her fully clothed as well or never see her feet and feel the same way. I wrote some articles on the website Associated Content, which pays you performance payments via how many page views you get. I guess the relevance of catering in some small way to fetishes like feet interests me because I did some articles on the subject and they have to date been my best performing, consistently highest paying articles out there. So why not throw some bare feet in there? Not too hard to do, does not hurt anything. As for Quentin Tarantino, he is one of the cinema Gods right now and we must appease the Gods."

(28DLA) Any last words for Canadian horror fans or horror fans in general?

I have never been to Canada. I would love to travel there as a part of something or to make Canadians a part of something entertaining. As for horror fans I can only thank them for their support thus far in the early stages of our movie productions and hope what we create something worthy of their time.

For more information on Arsoncuff Entertainment and Wes Laurie check out the Myspace page below:

Arsoncuff Entertainment Homepage

And have a look at a whole slew of articles on feet from Wes Laurie at Associated Content below:

Wes Laurie on Associated Content

Continue Reading!

Descent into Madness

Author/Michael Allen

Starring a very young Catherine Deneuve as Carole Ledoux "Repulsion," is one of Roman Polanski's most thrilling films from his early career. Shot in London with a contrasting black and white scale the film plays on the viewer's fears of urban living and the descent of central character Carole into a darkening madness. Unsettling today as the film was in the past this instant horror classic will shock those looking for something more in the psychological realm of filmaking. "Repulsion," can now be found on Blu-ray this July 28.

Roman Polanski's most paranoid horror film will offer 5.1 suround sound and audio commentary from the director with central character Catherine Deneuve supporting. Not to be missed this newest version of "Repulsion," will be shown in the highest quality visual format high-definition digital and offer a behind the scenes video with several interviews. Have a look at the full list of extras past the break.


Repulsion full contents from Critterion:

* New, restored high-definition digital transfer
* Audio commentary featuring director Roman Polanski and actress Catherine Deneuve
* A British Horror Film (2003), a documentary on the making of Repulsion, featuring interviews with Polanski, producer Gene Gutowski, and cinematographer Gil Taylor
* A 1964 television documentary filmed on the set of Repulsion, featuring rare footage of Polanski and Deneuve at work
* Theatrical trailer
* A booklet featuring an essay by film scholar and curator Bill Horrigan

Here is hoping that Polanski's satanic "Rosemary's Baby," comes to blu-ray soon!

Additional stills from the film:













And for even more stills from "Repulsion," check here:

Repulsion Movie Stills at Phinweb

Sources:

Descent Blu-ray Details

Continue Reading!

No More Tinsel in Treevenge

Author/Michael Allen

Yer Dead Productions presents "Treevenge," a creative tale of Christmas trees, revenge and infanticide during Christmas time. From producer Rob Cotterill and director Jason Eisener this comedy, horror short has recently finished playing at the reknowned Calgary Underground Film Festival, for film fans. Winner of several coveted awards including Best Short Film from both Rue Magazine and Fantastic Film Fest "Treevenge," is likely coming to a film festival near you.

And fortunately friend to 28DLA and horror enthusiast Zacery Nova was able to catch a select viewing at the CUF Festival and here is what he has to say about the film...

Director: Jason Eisener.

Writer: Rob Cotterill.

"Treevenge," is about sentient Christmas trees, that are cut down by cruel woodsmen, then distributed to dumb families and the trees, subsequently, get their bloody revenge. That is it and yet the film is ten times better than anything in the theater today, tomorrow or next week! "Treevenge," was made by the creators of “Hobo with a Shotgun”, a mediocre effort I did not much care for, but this makes up for that film in spades. There is gore, which is played strictly for laughs, there are old-school effects, no CGI, and there is overacting, then murder of tweens, which I am always a fan for (I want this desperately to get released on DVD with either extended sequences or deleted scenes).

The kidnapping of the trees is amusing because the scenes are played like any alien abduction movie you ever saw except the trees are the victims and the woodchoppers are the nasty, brutal aliens. The trees make adorable squeaky noises and shake a lot; what they say is subtitled in suitably green font and in hilarious B-movie “No! Don’t leave me!” styled dialogue. I do not want to spoil anything else because if I do the film will not work for fans as well.

So, I will only say that for those of you that enjoyed "Santa’s Slay," there are a ton of Christmas-themed deaths, which I love and there are buckets of dark humor. Also, I liked the classic horror scenes, they robbed from other films, but replaced the killers, or occasionally victims with Christmas trees. I cannot emphasize how important it is for you to see this film. If "Treevenge," is playing near you, if you can find the film online, if you see a DVD of "Treevenge," watch it!

Check out Zac's horror-themed blog here:

Zacery Nova at Stupid Horror Movies

For a movie clip from "Treevenge," visit a host site below:

Treevenge - Christmas Tree Attacks Movie Clip

Sources:

Treevenge Homepage

Continue Reading!

Bong of the Dead

Author/Michael Allen

Thomas Newman created miniature models in "4: Rise of the Silver Surfer," to be destroyed; then, he had his rubber molds eaten by a giant crocodile in "Lake Placid," now Newman is laughingly hosing down dozens of undead extras with gallons of syrupy blood in "Bong of the Dead." In Newman's newest feature this passionate filmmaker got a chance to combine his past make-up skills, pyrotechnic experience, and love for the lens to deliver a full length feature film for fans of the arts. This expressionistic story teller, who now knows what bit him - the creative bug, takes some time out from post-production to talk about one of most stylistic sub-genres in horror, the coming zombie apocalypse!

(28DLA) How did you get into filmmaking?

(Thomas Newman) "I was always involved in stage, art and anything else creative right from Elementary school through to High school. Once I graduated I took a ten thousand dollar student loan and attended the Vancouver Film School (big mistake). I soon realized that film school was a bunch of people who had no idea what a good film was nor did they want you to have big ideas. They kept telling me to keep my ideas safe and small so that they could be doable. I guess in a way it makes sense but then again why limit your imagination? I decided to skip out and go to the local theater down the street every day and watch movies over and over again. I believe that's where I got my real education. Besides I'm a firm believer that you can't teach talent, you either have it or you don't. You can learn all sorts of technical aspects of the art but it still won't make you a good film maker. When I was not skipping out from film school I was making cheesy weekend films with my other film buddies. We would rent a camera from 7-11 and spend all weekend making stuff just to film. We would go til all hours of the morning juiced on Big Gulps and passion. Making those small no budget films made me believe that I could do this for a living. I decided to turn my hobby into my passion and my passion into my obsession! I wish I had taken my ten thousand dollars and made my first feature then!"

(28DLA) What do you recall about the filming of "Lake Placid?" Did you do any work on the scuba diver's dismembered body or the sheriff's beheaded body, in the film?

(Newman) "Lake Placid was a very fun experience for me because that is where I made my friends and connections for life! I worked in the shop mainly as a mold maker, painter, foam latex runner and other odd jobs. I was never a fan of being on set. I always felt being on set to be very frustrating and boring. You spend all day waiting for your scene then you run in really quick and all eyes are on you to set up the head or arm or what have you then it's back to hanging out at crafties waiting for the next scene. I liked being in the shop much more where all the behind the scenes magic and creativity occurs. I made a lot of cool friends there that are now my best friends who were involved in Bong Of The Dead also! Right down to my old boss Toby Lindala who gave me my break in the industry as a make-up artist waaay back when the X-Files were in Vancouver. He lent me dead corpses to use in my film."

(28DLA) Which leads me into my next question, did you work much with Toby Lindala on "Lake Placid?" And were you offered a make-up role for "Lake Placid 2?"

(Newman) "I have a great deal of respect and love for Toby! I was a young kid with no experience but a lot of talk and passion. I marched up to Lindala's FX, knocked on the door and Toby invited me in. He took a look at my home made make-up jobs that I did and hired me on the spot. He gave me my break and allowed me to learn from him and all the great people he had working at his shop. He will always be someone I will respect and look up to.

I never worked on Lake Placid 2 because I was doing my own thing. I started in make-up but only as a means to get my foot into the door so that I could get to the point of making my own films. I always approached the film industry as a means of education. I learned everything I could from it by doing everything I could in it so that one day I could put it all to use on my own films. I was a background performer for years just so I could learn about film sets, then I went to make-up, then directing music videos for local groups, then on and on and on, always aiming for producing and directing my own features some day."

(28DLA) Why have you stayed away from make-up since 2005s "Glitched?"

(Newman) "I worked on Glitched because my long time best friend and now co-producer of Bong of yhe Dead Vincent Akira Yoshida was producer on that film and wanted me involved. After Glitched I decided to get out of the film industry all together. I was frustrated by all the hurdles one had to jump just to get to a level where you could call the shots. I packed it in and got a job working in a pulp mill where I thought I could hide from my dreams and calling. It was very difficult to continue and to give up when you get a craving that just won't give in! I struggled with my inner monologue for a long time before I realized that making pulp was a waste of my life and talent. I needed to get back in the game and try again and try harder. I quit the mill and went back out there, this time only as a producer/director. I figured if I establish myself now as a producer/director then people will know me as such and take me more seriously."

(28DLA) You have a passion for make-up, special effects, and pyrotechnics will these elements be shown in, your directorial debut, "Bong of the Dead?" And is this, in fact, your directorial debut?

(Newman) "Absolutely! I love blood, guts and gore with some explosions thrown in for a good mix. And yes BOTD is my directorial debut and it's full of blood, guts and gore! However, I did not set out to just do a splatter film with no style; I made sure to design my shots months in advance with every scene story boarded with 3-D animatics also. I wanted to do a gory film that people would remember because it also has a plot and was beautifully shot. As for the amount of blood we used on the film....800 Gallons in one day! We had Brant's FX team using a fire hose to spray blood all over the actors and the zombies. There was enough blood there that we actually had a small creek running red most of the day!"

(28DLA) Do you find the horror genre limited or open enough to explore various creative possibilities? Do you find new challenges working in the horror field?

(Newman) "I'll be the first one to admit that the horror genre is a simple formula that is guaranteed to work every time. Do I want to be directing horror forever? I love horror but I also love biopics like the ones Martin Scorsese does, and dramas, action, sci-fi and basically every other genre known to man. I LOVE film so I don't believe a producer or director should limit themselves to one genre. If you can do something different then why not do it as long as its good. The beauty about the horror genre is that it allows first time directors such as myself a damn good chance to get noticed. More so then any other genres that are harder to sell. The horror genre is a simple formula that has always worked and always will because fear is a universal language. We all feel fear the same way which is why horror films are so big in the foreign markets also. I like mixing genres and making it work. In BOTD we have horror, comedy, suspense, action and a bit of romance to top it off. The horror genre for the most part has made it easier for hardcore film buffs to make a cool film by going back to the basics. Today there are too many CG monsters on screen and not enough good old rubber suits or foam latex appliances. Think of all the classic horror films like Evil Dead, Texas Chainsaw, Friday the 13th and many others, they used real people and no CG, so it made it a lot more scarier in my opinion. The only challenges I find with the horror genre is that its tough to get out of the five hot teens in a cabin, they all get killed in cool ways routine. I guess if you are going to do that same old thing you better have a twist that will make the film stand out more than the others."

(28DLA) How did you meet Mike Fields and how much did you collaborate with him on your film project "Bong of the Dead?" Did you see see things mostly eye-to-eye in the make-up, and special effects department or did you have different perspectives/visions?

(Newman) "I met Mike waaay back during the X-Files days and immediatly hit it off with him. I knew he was a great makeup artist and that he loved movies as much as I do. The guy has more movie tattoos over his body than any human alive! We share the same vision all the time to point that I did not have to say much and he already knows the look I am going for. Working with Mike is always a pleasure and always fun to say the least. He is a total pro and I believe if you are going to hire a pro to work with you then give them the freedom to do what they do best. I do not like limiting peoples potentials one bit. When we worked on BOTD Mike said he did not just want to be a co-producer but he wanted to be doing the make-up also 100%, which I obviously had no problems with. Again, let the pros do what they do best and allow them the freedom to give you their all. Mike is the reason the gore was made possible. We were always on the same page and there was never a moment that I doubted what he would come up with."

(28DLA) What new creative challenges came up for you as a director in "Bong of the Dead?" As well, are there any additional roles you would like to pursue in moviemaking for the future?

(Newman) "The additional challenges was keeping peoples spirits up everyday. My cast and crew were pulling eighteen hour days and starting to wear down. You would find people passed out in every corner of our sets when ever they could. The other challenge was trying to stay on schedule everyday in hopes of finishing on time. I believe we did everything I wanted to do and even more. My goals are set on producer/director for life! I love producing and directing together and will never just do one without the other. Producing is a great skill that if mastered will make you a better director, it only makes sense to do them together. Besides I like to be in control of my productions in hopes of preserving the vision from start to finish. I'm going Rodriguez the whole way!"

As of now "Bong of the Dead," has been entered into the American Film Market for distribution. As well, additional distributors are working with Newman for a European release and for those of you with an interest in Newman's projects check out the Mind in Motion homepage below. Then prepare to be blown away later this year as "Bong of the Dead," makes the rounds on the film festival circuit.

The "Bong of the Dead," homepage below...

Bong of the Dead Homepage and Thomas Newman Biography

And finally view the first trailer for "Bong of the Dead," here:

Bong of the Dead Teaser Trailer

Continue Reading!