The Iceman Claims 250 Murders as a Real Life Hitman: First Poster

Author/Michael Allen

The real life misdeeds of Richard Kuklinski will be covered in Bleiberg Entertainment's The Iceman. Growing up in a household of violence, where his brother was killed, Richard learned to use violence and aggression to solve his problems. He killed his first victim at the age of twelve or thirteen when a bully became too physical with him. He would murder several more in Manhattan where he perfected his trade, murder-for-hire. Kurlinski would then spend several years working for the Gambino Family and now his lowlights are being sensationalized in a real life crime thriller, which hosts an all star cast.

For now, the first poster for The Iceman is hosted here and the graphic states "Loving husband. Devoted father. Ruthless Killer." Have a look at a murderous legend who claimed to have killed "more than 250 people," below.

Release Date: 2012 or TBA.

Director: Ariel Vromen.

Cast: Michael Shannon, Chris Evans, Maggie Gyllenhaal, David Schwimmer, Ray Liotta, Elias Koteas, Olga Fonda, Christa Campbell, Ryan O'Nan, Weronika Rosati, Danny A. Abeckaser, Ori Pfeffer, and Brian Kinney.

*shot on 35 mm.

**running time: 120 min.

Source:

The Iceman at Bleiberg Ent.

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Chris R. Notarile's Stand Off and Four Femme Fatales: A Movie Review

Author/Ed Sum

*an online screener of this film was provided by Chris R. Notarile.

Director/writer: Chris R. Notarile.

Cast: Mandy Evans, Kim Santiago, Ella Jane New and Kerri Miller.

Almost every great director had a low budget start. When comparing Quentin Tarantino’s first feature film, Reservoir Dogs to Chris Notarile’s second major project, Stand Off, there is no denying a few similarities—and Notarile shows plenty of potential as an indie producer/director. He has had plenty of practice with his short genre films on his website, Blinky Productions, and in his foray into feature length movies, he is keeping the movies he likes to make simple.

With Stand Off, there’s a deeper meaning that can be found, or it can simply be enjoyed at face value. And just like this director’s other short film projects, Notarile has no problems in borrowing from other works. He releases these movies under the Creative Commons license, and that gives him the opportunity to experiment with recognized names from many lexicons—comics and drama for example—and build himself a following. From the horror films of the 80’s, Notarile’s short, “Krueger, a Tale from Elm Street,” demonstrates his panache as cinematographer, director and video editor, but just when will he reach mainstream?

With Stand Off, he is well on his way to being recognized. Notarile adapts the heist-gone-wrong scenario, and his version is all gams. A gang of thieves known as the Executives—comprised of Tess (Kerri Miller), Sims (Ella Jane New), Fox (Mandy Evens) and Youngblood (Kim Santiago) have to figure out what to do with the dough they stole.

Greed overcomes their reasoning and that’s starting to affect their relationship with each other. When a cop, Cole (Roberto Lombardi), walks into the scene, the situation is only made worse. Tess and Fox believe a snitch is in their midst and the remainder of the film rests on the group trying to figure out who she is.

The leading ladies have the prowess to pull off a very commendable round of a whodunit thriller. Even without the God of War (in this film, Lombardi looks like Kevin Tod Smith from "Xena: Warrior Princess") interrupting the scene and providing a few rough and tumble moments, the Executives are not cozy with each other after all. Notarile provides for a very interesting script, and the exposition that develops may be an allegory for a greater truism about the depths of the human psyche when faced with making tough decisions.

The latter part of the film breaks down what the self must feel of looking in the mirror and asking the question of who friends are and what a close knit group means to each other. Who is the lion? Who is the mouse? What’s the difference between reason and entropy? And more importantly, just how will the girls break up the money they stole after someone in their number disappeared? Egos are not the only thing coming into question.

But unbeknownst to them, the authorities are trying to put a stop to the girls’ shenanigans. In this subplot, Notarile does a good job in building the suspense by providing a few clues in who may be the nark. The better job he's pulled off is in the editing of this short 60-minute film.

The balance between exposition and plot nicely moves this movie along, and each actress gets the screen time she deserves. Audiences are invited along to guess how this tale will resolve itself, but the twist that this film answers the greater question of how conflict should be resolved. Just how that will go down is the fun part of this movie. Some may be more interested in watching the four-way catfight, while others will analyze it for the answer it provides. Either way, this product is worth the hour to watch the human drama unfold, and perhaps also realize that watching movies is not the best way to learn how to pull off a perfect robbery—or anything else for that matter.

After all, movie entertainment is meant to be escapism, and not be a shootout at the OK Corral. No one can really escape fate, but just don't tell Wyatt Earp that.

Currently, this movie is looking for a distributor. To track when this film will be released, or to learn more about the performers, please visit Chris R. Notarile’s official website below.

Overall: 8 out of 10.

Chris R. Notarile's website:

Blinky Productions

The film's fan page is here:

Blinky Productions' Stand Off on Facebook

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Notable DVDs for the Holiday Season: A Preview of the Dark Season to Come

Author/Ed Sum

Tis the season to be jolly and here at 28DLA, we have compiled a list of notable video titles that are available in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Yuletide fun can also include a tale of terror too to make those chilly nights even colder. This list is compiled from various sources.


November Releases

Bikini Bloodbath Christmas
"Jenny and Sharon are back! This time Ms. Johnson is in a coma, and the girls, along with their new friends, find themselves working at Mrs. Johnson's (Ms. Johnson's British cross-dressing sister) Bong Shoppe. Team Bong Shoppe is embattled in fierce competition for holiday business with a Christian Deli across the way. Things get a little crazy and in the heat of the moment, Jenny once again accidentally resurrects the Killer Chef... and mayhem—gratuitous amounts of gore and nudity—ensue! The Limited Edition Giftpack includes a limited poster and White Liger CD." (Source: Diamond Comics).

Extras:
-slide show
-outtakes
-interview w/commentary (Jonathan Gorman, Thomas Edward Seymour, Jonathan Gorman, and Sheri Lynn)

Bikini Bloodbath Christmas on DVD at Amazon


Helldriver
"From the creators of Machine Girl, and Tokyo Gore Police, an alien-spawned, mysterious mist blankets the northern half of Japan, transforming those who inhale it into ravenous, flesh-eating zombies hell-bent on devouring the surviving human population. Plunged into chaos, Japan is torn into two areas. The southern half of the country, where the population remains untouched by the deadly gas, lives behind a heavily fortified wall, while the northern half is a lawless, zombie-infected wasteland" (Source: Amazon).

Extras:
-three exclusive short films set within the "Helldriver" universe: "Helldriver Dokata," "Catch Me If You Can!" and "Bailout!"
-interview with director Yoshihiro Nishimura
-"Sushi Typhoon: Tokyo Invasion!" featurette

Helldriver on DVD at Amazon


Chillerama (Unrated)
"In the spirit of classic anthology films like Creepshow and Twilight Zone: The Movie and containing films that not only celebrate the golden age of drive-in B horror schlock but also span over four decades of cinema, Chillerama offers something for every bad taste. With titles like "Wadzilla," "I Was a Teenage Werebear," "The Diary of Anne Frankenstein," and "Zom-B-Movie" and featuring appearances by Joel David Moore (Avatar), Lin Shaye (Insidious), Ray Wise (X-Men: First Class), Kane Hodder (Friday the 13th), Eric Roberts (The Dark Knight) and more cameos than you can count, Chillerama is sure to have you screaming for more. From the depraved minds of Adam Rifkin (Detroit Rock City), Tim Sullivan (2001 Maniacs), Adam Green (Frozen), and Joe Lynch (Wrong Turn 2)" (Source: Amazon).

Extras:
-directors' video commentary
-"Wadzilla" deleted scenes
-"The Making of The Diary of Anne Frankenstein"
-"I Was a Teenage Were Bear" behind the scenes and deleted scenes
-"Zom-B-Movie" deleted scenes
-directors' interviews
-also available on Blu-ray Disc

Chillerama Unrated Edition at Amazon


Tucker & Dale vs. Evil
"Horror comedy has best friends Tucker and Dale heading out for a relaxing weekend of fishing at their secluded cabin. Unfortunately for them, evil has different plans when a series of misunderstandings and tragic events start killing a group of preppy college students, who believe Tucker and Dale are backwoods hillbillies out to kill them" (Source: Magnolia Home Entertainment).

Extras:
-commentary
-behind-the-scenes featurette
-also available on Blu-ray Disc.

Tucker and Dale vs Evil on DVD

Frankenhooker
"When Jeffrey Franken's fiancée is chopped to pieces by the blades of a remote-controlled lawnmower; he uses his dubious medical knowledge to try to bring her back to life. He reassembles his beloved Elizabeth using the body parts of New York City's finest prostitutes, and resurrects her during a heavy lightning storm. Unfortunately for Jeffrey, Elizabeth's brain is scrambled and she runs amok on 42nd Street, turning tricks and bringing high-voltage death to her customers" (OnVideo).

Extras:
-commentary by Henenlotter and make-up effects designer Gabe Bartalos
-"A Salad That Was Once Named Elizabeth" Patty Mullen featurette
-"A Stitch in Time: The Make-Up Effects of Frankenhooker"
-"Turning Tricks: Jennifer Delora Remembers Frankenhooker"
-Jennifer Delora's Frankenhooker photo scrapbook (Source: CAV Distributing/Synapse Films).

Frankenhooker on DVD at Amazon


Early December Releases

More Brains! A Return To The Living Dead
"Do you ever wonder about all the different ways of dying? Dan O'Bannon's outrageous splatter classic 'The Return Of The Living Dead' has continued to terrify and entertain horror fans for over twenty-five years with its delicious mix of blood, guts, sex and punk. Boasting offbeat humor, plenty of attitude and one of the most famous zombies ever committed to celluloid, it's easy to see why the film's legacy continues to grow" (Source: Amazon).

Extras:
-four making of featurettes
-Dan O'Bannon's final interview
-Stacey Q's Live!
-exclusive tonight music video
-even more brains: deleted documentary interviews
-Return of The Living Dead in 3 Minutes

Zombie Diaries 2
"The sequel to the smash-hit The Zombie Diaries! Three months have passed since a viral outbreak wiped out 99.9% of the world's population, turning its victims into flesh-eating living dead. In the UK, a surviving band of soldiers and civilians have taken refuge at a rural military barracks. Life is tough, but hope appears when a high level communication is received from a military base on the coast, telling of sanctuary elsewhere in Europe!" (Source: Diamond Comics).

Extras:
-behind the scenes featurette
-director's Commentary

Zombie Diaries 2 on DVD at Amazon


Zombie Allegiance
"Cannibals, Zombies, Necrophilia - Welcome to the U.S.A. In post-World War III America, where the walking dead outnumber the living, a determined band of mismatched survivors scour hostile terrain in their quest for shelter and community. Chock full of gore and dripping with suspense, Zombie Allegiance presents ""a sometimes scarily accurate metaphor regarding the current state of affairs here in the good ole U.S.A" (Source: Amazon).

Extras:
-information unavailable

Zombie Allegiance on DVD at Amazon


Santa Claus vs. the Zombies
"Santa Claus Versus the Zombies tells the story of a suburban family that finds themselves barricaded in their house following the outbreak of the zombie plague. Along for the ride are a couple of elves and an actor that just might be the real Santa Claus. In the meantime, the President and his military advisers are holed up in a bunker feverishly trying to hatch a plan to rescue Santa and the desperate family" (Source: Amazon).

Extras:
-information unavailable

Santa Clause Versus the Zombies on DVD at Amazon

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"Death Ship: The Last Voyage of the Demeter" and Movie Aspirations: A Graphic Novel Review

Author/Ed Sum

Aficionados of Bram Stoker's Dracula will be in for a double treat. Discounting a similarly titled Death Ship (1980), which bears no relation to the recent graphic novel of the same name, at least this tale may be the inspiration for a coming film, Last Voyage of the Demeter. News of this film broke early 2011 and as of late, David Slate (30 Days of Night) is to direct, and Bragi F. Schut (Season of the Witch) to write the screenplay. Until this film goes into production, UK residents have the treat of BBC Radio 4's version to tide them over. They provided a chilling version that was last broadcasted in '09, which is now hard to come by.

At least the graphic novel compilation of "Death Ship: The Last Voyage of the Demeter," is more current. IDW Publishing released this title Sept 28 and this tale explores the last few days of the Russian schooner, the Demeter, a sailing vessel which brought the king of all vampires to England. Madness and forlorn is explored as Dracula slowly ravages the crew. And as they disappear, only the captain becomes the last to navigate the doomed boat towards safe harbour.

But in Bram's Stoker's tale, the boat was washed up on the shore near Whitby, England and Dracula escaped to the wild countryside to meet the lovely Lucy. Perhaps a page was lost in the graphic novel to describe the fact that it was found and later towed to harbour? For some reason, in the comic, the boat looked like it made harbour and that was the captain's last gasping act. While the carcass of that man is accurately depicted as tied to the wheel, the other detail about how the boat arrived may irk continuity snobs.

At least that single page does not disturb the rest of the tale. Written by Gary Gerani (co-creator of Pumpkinhead!) and illustrated by Stuart Sayger (creator of Shiver in the Dark), the two are a great team who can read in between the lines of each other's work. In what is described, Sayger brings an ominous tone to the illustrations when the tale gets dark. The tale succeeds in chronicling the journey the Demeter just like in Stoker’s novel. A few lines are even borrowed and used in the graphic novel to hint at what‘s lurking from within the bowels of the ship.

The tale even emulates a little bit of the charm of a Samuel Taylor Coleridge's own frightening narrative, "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner." The theme of seeking salvation is explored. The Captain may be a simple man, but he depends on the crucifix that he desperately clings onto let him see the light. In this case, all he sees is despair as his crew disappears. But when the last few survivors happen to be Yuri, a cabin boy, and Constantine, a crew mate, their smitten lives drive the hardened sea dog to the brink.

The reading of this graphic novel can not be any better, and it can be savoured time and time again because of the artwork. The watercolors bring a certain level of expressionism out of the illustrations Sayger provides. He brings out even more depth in his artwork whenever he caricaturizes the emotionally wrought characters. And colourist Dom Regan does a great job in enhancing Sayger's work.

While some readers will opt for the graphic novel, the comic books are still worth tracking down; cover artist Cliff Nielsen and Sayger also provides for some great-looking covers for art collectors to appreciate.

If this team is ever to reunite, Coleridge's tale is still up for reinterpretation. There still has not been a decent adaptation of his classic poem of where the Mariner has survived the curse of the seven seas. So what if he is still stark raving mad? At least he's still alive.

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The Undying and Predestined for Sunday Afternoon Television: A Movie Review

Author/Michael Allen

*a screener of this film was provided by MTI Home Video.

Director: Steven Peros.

Writers: Steven Peros and David M. Flynn.

A necrophiliac doctor, a sexually inappropriate physician, a murdering ghost - how could this film go wrong? The Undying seems to have been put together for a television debut. Instead, this film finds itself being released on DVD through MTI Home Video December 13th. Understandably, this is director Steven Peros' first film, but the chills of the horror genre are left behind in favour of a more supernatural and romantic approach to filmmaking. The result is a pretty tepid thriller.

Robin Weigert ("Deadwood") plays Barbara a night doctor who has taken residence in a new locale. Recently, her fiance died by idiocy when he backed up into speeding traffic while taking a picture. Now, she laments his demise but she has something to keep her distracted. A Civil War ghost haunts her abode and he wants her to help him become physical once again. The death of a local vagrant at the hospital allows for Barbara to fondle her comatose patient while preparing to steal his body out of the ward. Her plan and the body's possession go off without a hitch until Barbara figures out that the body she took is that of a murderer! Cue the dramatic music and prepare for way too many love scenes.

Meanwhile, two stories are being played out: one is another romance gone awry from the Civil War and the other is taking place between Barbara and Elijah, her Civil War boy toy. Both of these stories unify in the violent climax, but by this time The Undying seems more fizzle than pizzazz.

Although this film did not find a television premiere as of yet, The Undying just has this Sunday afternoon television quality that makes it fairly forgettable. There is no swearing, much of the violence occurs offscreen and many of the actors are in fact from television. It seems as if this film has toned itself down to reach a wider audience.

This title just cannot find its genre. As a thriller this film only offers a little tension as Barbara tries to cover up her theft of the body. As a romantic film, this title works on some level. And as a horror film, well you better look elsewhere.

The Undying does have a market out there. Those who are little sensitive when it comes to thrillers might find this film suits their taste. Horror fans will find very little of value here and die-hard thriller fans might be better off with other titles. Granted this is Peros' first film, so The Undying seems like a cautious experiment. For this reviewer, the experiment did not create a chemical reaction. Others might enjoy a Civil War vet' coming to life to shag an unstable doctor. Who knows?

Overall: 6.5 out of 10 (this film sits on the fence a lot and it does not have a solid identity).

*special features on the release:

-film commentary
-photo gallery
-trailers

The Undying at MTI Home Video:

The Undying at MTI Home Video

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Notable Titles to Kick-off 2012's Nightmares: A Preview Guide

Author/Ed Sum

Mayan prophecies notwithstanding, terror will be coming to video stores nearly once every three weeks. The following titles are just but a taste of the mainstream releases. Valentine’s Day, however, will offer North American audiences a hint of what may be a very controversial title for some, and a godsend to others just because of the subject matter:

(Jan 3) – Guillermo del Toro’s remake of Don't Be Afraid of the Dark gets dibs as one of the many titles to be released first for 2012. This video release will offer a three part, making-of documentary: "The Story," "Blackwood's Mansion," "The Creatures." The Blu-ray edition will include a conceptual art gallery.

Don't Be Afraid of the Dark [Blu-ray]

For an early or late Christmas present, "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark: Blackwood's Guide to Dangerous Fairies", by Del Toro, can be a great accompaniment prior to rewatching the film again. This hardcover novel takes place a hundred years prior to the events of the movie. In Amazon's summary: "it chronicles the travels and adventures of a young nature scientist who begins to understand there’s more to the world than science understands."

Don't Be Afraid of the Dark Blackwood's Guide to Dangerous Fairies

Viewers interested in the original film can now buy the remastered edition through Amazon. Discs are made on-demand. Extras include a superfan commentary track from horror fans Jeffrey Reddick, Steve Barton ("Uncle Creepy") and Sean Abley. (Amazon)

Don't Be Afraid of the Dark - Original Version


(Jan 24) - Ishiro Honda's Gojira is getting a new print, or rather, a gigantic release from Criterion. In addition to a remastered print, the disc promises a bevy of extras—included are commentary tracks, new interviews (with actor Akira Takarada, Gojira performer Haruo Nakajima, score composer Akira Ifukube, and effects technicians Yoshio Irie and Eizo Kaimai), audio essays, featurettes and even a booklet (featuring an essay by critic J. Hoberman) to even make the most die-hard salivate.

Godzilla Takashi Shimura

(Feb 7) – Ben Affleck's thriller, The Town gets the Ultimate Collector’s edition treatment. This rerelease will include an extended cut with the alternate ending, a new 30-minute documentary, and additional commentaries. In this package will feature, to name a few, a “letter” from Affleck, a 48-page photo book with behind the scenes information and a poster-size map of Charlestown that details the crime scenes from the film, cards, tattoos and a FBI dossier.

The Town Special Edition




(Feb 14) – The one movie that sparked controversy in more than one front, including film rights and illegal distribution is finally getting a North American release. Nude Nuns with Big Guns is getting a release by Image Entertainment. Just how fast or slow this title will fly off the shelves depend on how many people are after this sexploitation film. At the time of this publication, no details have been issued about what the DVD/Blu-ray extras will be.

Nude Nuns with Big Guns

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Deadheads and Zombie Humour: A Movie Review

Author/Ed Sum

Directors/Writers: Brett and Drew Pierce.

Cast: Ross Kidder, Michael McKiddy and Markus Taylor.

The Deadheads is less about the horror of being undead and more about the relationships known back then and made now. When Mike Kellerman (Michael McKiddy) awakens to the unknown—and unaware he's technically a zombie of a new generation—the only help he's going to find is with Brent Guthrie (Ross Kidder), a drifter who's all about living life even though he’s dead too.

Part bro-rom-com and part adventure, this film quickly gets these two characters paired up for a look at what life is like for two outcasts. A part of what defines a horror film is retained, and that's to look deep into mankind's fears of acceptance within society.

Kellerman is an author, an individual who can hardly make ends meet, and he's in still in love with his high school sweetheart. He explains his motivations and this reveal sets up the movie's plot. He wants to puts to rest some feelings he has had for this girl, but he does not know what has happened in the years since he was absent. She may have moved on and to get there requires the help of Guthrie.

McKiddy and Kidder have a great chemistry throughout the film. And what develops about kin looking out for each other does not include just them. They have a pet of sorts, a mindless zombie named Cheese, that's wonderfully played by Markus Taylor. This gentle giant overshadows another comedy pairing, and some viewers may wonder if each group is trying to outdo each other. McDinkle (Benjamin Webster) and Eric's (Brian Matthew Richardson) camaraderie is more reminiscent of a wrestling tag-team.

Webster is obviously hamming it up a la Hulk Hogan and Richardson plays up the straight man from the traditional comedy duos of yesteryears. He’s the only character who keeps his head throughout the film. But when there is a secret agenda going on, nobody is going to win. Apparently, someone is out to make the ultimate super soldier. When McDinkle isn’t it, someone else is going to be. Perhaps that's why Kellerman ends up surviving more than just bullet wounds.

The military needs a thinking soldier than just a mindless one; they need someone who can think in the battlefield but yet take orders without question. The underlying tale is great when viewers stop to think about how all the characters behave in contrast to each other throughout the film.

The Pierce Brothers provide some great thinking moments when these reveals are made. After all, Elle Masterson’s (Natalie Victoria) dad is some kind of scientist who thinks Kellerman is worth more than in what his little girl feels for him. With this amount of thought put behind the tale, this film stands very well on its own merit than to be compared.

To even liken it to another buddy film, Shaun of the Dead, really does not work. British humour is nothing like American humour, and this film is all American. That can be found with the in-jokes to popular culture, namely Transformers. Unless fans have been living under a rock in the last few years, like Kellerman, the throwback to the movie styling of the late 80’s and early 90's are heavily apparent in this film.

The Pierce Brothers wrote and directed a wonderful gem of a product. By borrowing a little from the zombie highlights of several decades, they even make the pre-requisite African-American warrior spectacular. Thomas Jeremiah (Thomas Galasso) channels everything that audiences can remember from the character of Ben from Night of the Living Dead. Had the original character survived, he would no doubt be continuing the legacy by making a cameo appearance.

Currently this film is touring the film festival circuit and is available in select markets, including video on demand, like NetFlix.

Overall: 7 out of 10.

The film's fan page is here:

Deadheads on Facebook

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"The Walking Dead" and Ruining Your Welcome: A Television Review ("Pretty Much Dead Already")

Author/Michael Allen

Director: Michelle Mclaren,

Writers: Frank Darabont, Robert Kirkman, and Scott M. Gimple.

So, apparently Herschel had a secret of his own waiting in his barn. This episode, "Pretty Much Dead," ended with a powerful and emotive ending, but did this final five minutes make up for the previous thirty-five minutes of predictable dialogue? The consistent drama and repetition of previous plotlines such as searching for Sophia (Madison Lintz) continued in this episode with the inclusion of a few more. The writing or lack thereof and reduced budget has kept this show in an idyllic landscape for too long. Now, is the time to push on.

As an aside, it is at this point that Frank Darabont left the show. His departure occurred during this episode or in epis. 8. How will the show progress? It is possible that Darabont plotted the rest of this series. However, the show's success now lies in the hands of producers Glen Mazzara, Gale Anne Hurd and the money grubbing cronies at the AMC. Mazzara's presence will likely not be felt much until seas. 3 and hopefully by then this show will be receiving the budget it deserves.

In this episode, Glenn (Steven Yeun) revealed his discovery in the barn to the rest of the group, a horde of walkers. Then, Rick (Andrew Lincoln) produced his best Hermes impression as he tried to forestall the group's eventual move into the zombie infested wild. Herschel (Scott Wilson) was having none of it. However, Shane (Jon Bernthal) was showing off his best one man looney tune impression as he threatened Dale's (Jeffrey DeMunn) life and forced a confrontation between Herschel's family and Rick's fractured group. The result was a one sided OK Corral shootout which left Herschel's family and friends in tatters, while revealing Sophia's hiding spot. Just think: no tears, no tears.

The powerful ending has been set up for several episodes now, but were these five minutes enough to satisfy zombie fiction fans? Epis. 8, which airs February 12th, will be the determiner. This reviewer found there to be too much dialogue and inter-group conflict here like previous episodes; but this showing was amping the tension to something. Much of the episode was dedicated to fostering a new alliance between Rick and Herschel. All of his work was undone by Shane's short-sighted plan.

And Shane's hijacking of the group's direction led to one very brutal gunfight. Rick being tied up by the plot device of a leashed zombie kept him from interrupting Shane's strategy. Shane has also likely put this group on the road as shooting Herschel's folks is not likely to sit well with anyone. Although, Daryl (Norman Reedus) seemed on Shane's side, the rest of the group seemed ambivalent, as well they should be. As guests, Rick and his group really know how to ruin their welcome. One last thought, Sophia's presence and eventual demise was very affective and her ruin finally puts to rest a seven episode sub-plot that should have been wrapped up in two or three showings. Certain story elements are being drawn out for far too long.

Now that "The Walking Dead" has taken a mid-season hiatus, it would be interesting to predict future plot developments. Based on promotional material, this reviewer is guessing that Shane is sent packing after his despicable actions on the farm. His survival will be limited based on the comic's forecast for this character. To be optimistic, the rest of this group will also be sent on the road, but this reviewer has a sinking suspicion that much of this season will take place on Herschel's overly safe estate. If the group does hit the road, then expect Maggie (Lauren Cohan) to join Rick's group. Also, T-Dog's (IronE Singleton) periphery presence in the show is a signal to this reviewer that his demise is looming. With this season's slow progression, expect T-Dog to find a zombie's maw next season. What are your predictions?

Overall, thirty-five minutes of the usual dramatic formula was almost overshadowed by a very interesting finale in "Pretty Much Dead Already." This show's budget seems to be hampering the excitement, while Mazzara's future helming of this series could create for a new path for the show. With the resolution of the Sophia sub-plot, there is no need to stay on the farm and the show should (this is a big should) take to the road. A zombie road trip could then potentially bring back some of the excitement to this series which has been lacking through much of the first half of the season.

Overall: 7 out of 10 (a good ending, more drama, little action, minor characters drifting in and out of episodes).

More on this show at the AMC:

The Walking Dead at the AMC

Another review of "Pretty Much Dead Already" at Hit Fix (Alan Sepinwall):

The Walking Dead Epis. 7 Reviewed at Hit Fix

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Smiley Introduces Himself to Horror Fans with a Mask and a Blade: First Trailer

Author/Michael Allen

Here is a preview of a slasher film called Smiley. This title is from Michael Gallagher, a twenty-three year old director and the film's story involves a myth, a keyboard and a girl trying to save her life from a crazed serial killer. Now, the first trailer for Smiley is available, which shows the killer behind a strange mask. Is he from a supernatural realm or a physical one? This film fan will put his money on the latter as Smiley gets set to release in 2012. Check out the trailer below.

Release Date: 2012.

Director: Michael Gallagher.

Writers: Glasgow Phillips and Michael Gallagher.

Producer: Michael Wormser.

Cast: Caitlin Gerard, Melanie Papalia, Shane Dawson, Andrew James Allen, Roger Bart, Liza Weil, Keith David, Michael Traynor, Toby Turner, Jana Winternitz, DeStorm Power, Patrick O'Sullivan, Billy St.John, Steve Greene, Richard Ryan, Nikki Limo, Bree Essrig, Jason Horton, and Elizabeth Greer.

The trailer for Smiley is here:

Smiley on Facebook:

Smiley's Fan Page

Source:

Smiley at Upcoming Horror Movies

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Romeo & Juliet vs. The Living Dead and Romancing the Bard: A Movie Review

Author/Ed Sum

Director: Ryan Denmark.

Writers: Ryan Denmark, Jason Witter, and William Shakespeare (original play).

Cast: Hannah Kauffmann, Jason Witter, Mark Chavez, Kate Schroeder, Reuben Finkelstein, and Kevin R Elder.

What strangeness doth producer/writer Jason Witter and director Ryan Denmark bring? And how do they reinterpret a classic play for a zombie generation? In what gets created, Romeo & Juliet vs. the Living Dead defies every expectation for a zombie film that aspires to be very literary. These two filmmakers have made a very unique product that can easily rank up there with author Seth Grahame-Smith’s "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies." Their passion for this bard's work is easily apparent, but their love for the classic zombie film is just as equally visible.

The team behind this movie put together an amazing product that will satisfy certain types of audiences. For those looking for spectacular makeup effects, that will not be found here. What is presented is very basic, and it gets the job done in a theatrical sense. To really go all out would only detract from this film. For those looking for gore, there is nothing over-the-top or even remotely horrific. Most of the scenes of a zombie feasting are more suggestive than visceral.

At least the blood is delivered in troves. But for those who love a good adaptation of a classic, this movie certainly delivers. Watching this film is more about satisfying a curiousity of how the bard’s work has been interpreted if one of the families happened to be a race of zombies. And the result is quite comedic.

But there is more to this movie than the love the two leading characters have. There is more to Romeo (Jason Witter) than what is portrayed. He seems intelligent, but when he is smitten, there is a lost puppy appeal to this zombie character. That’s just one great twist to this tale, and Witter does a great job with bringing out Romeo’s comic side with no dialogue at all. Juliet (Hannah Kauffmann) comes through as a very smitten hopeless romantic. As the intro shows, she has many courters.

But when the rest of the family gets involved, the range of characters portrayed suggest that most of the performers came from theatrical roots. They may very well be from the same acting troupe or college drama club, and the movie may be a trial of how they can fare on screen compared to a stage. In this film’s case, it is a test that needs to be explored some more. The transition is very good to show the commitment these people have to create this product.

With this film and much like the play, the themes of death and violence are explored. There is tragedy in every corner, as members and friends of the Capulet family are slowly picked off. The inevitable gets overshadowed with the "South Park" style humour that is spiced within this film. All the phallic references and crude sexual innuendos make this movie seem like a product of a juvenile mind, but that is far from what the producers may have intended.

This zombie comedy romance actually stays very close to Shakespeare’s work. When Abraham in the play challenges Sampson to bite his thumb at thee, he does so literally. These little moments make for a great reinterpretation of the Bard’s text, and those are moments worth more than the cruder aspects of this film’s production.

The challenge of whether or not the living can love the dead has been explored in previous zombie comedies, but this latest entry is the one that stands a better chance of achieving cult status than My Boyfriend's Back or Boy Eats Girl.

Witter and Denmark do a great job in bringing as much of what they understand about Shakespeare's tale into the film. They even bring as much of the Evil Dead tradition into the bloodbath. A zombie film cannot be complete without the traditional equipment of warfare: the bat, rat and chainsaw. They also provide a great twist upon Shakespeare's play that really has to be seen to be believed. With the message these young producers deliver in both the prologue and epilogue, they certainly understand what Romeo and Juliet is all about, and that alone is a five star act.

Overall: 8 out of 10.

Romeo & Juliet vs. the Living Dead’s Official Facebook Page:

The Film's Facebook Page

*available on VOD, Netflix and iTunes US.

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Eaters and Your Ticket to a Zombie Road Show: A Movie Review

Author/Michael Allen

*here be some spoilers.

Directors: Luca Boni and Marco Ristori.

Writers: Germano Tarricone and Marco Ristori.

Eaters or Eaters: Rise of the Dead is an Italian film in Italian that puts two characters on the road in an apocalypse. Much of the world's population is dead and those remaining shamble the earth forever. This is a tense zombie film that focuses primarily on two characters, Igor (Alex Lucchesi) and Alen (Guglielmo Favilla). Everyone else in the film, including a midget Fascist, are just a small part of this travelling zombie road show.

Much like a circus, this new world is full of perverts, mad scientists, talking zombies and even a bloodsport arena. Igor and Alen encounter all of these situations, but they deal with them in two different ways. Alen, the introvert, would rather use his guile to deal with Carvaggio, a painter of corpses and with others. Igor, the extrovert, would rather charge in bullets flying. These different styles also have differing levels of success. Meanwhile, Gyno is back at the base pulling their strings. He is developing a new and smellier race of humankind.

Luca Boni (Zombie Apocalypse) and Marco Ristori bring an interesting filmmaking style to Eaters. In this film, there is always something happening both in the central plot and in several sideplots. The dialogue is frenetic and the Italian style of fimmaking utilizes a lot more cinematography compared to other countries. There is a lot of beauty between the zombie beatings. As well, this is a darker film than most, with many of the minor characters more than a little crazed. Carvaggio, named after a real life painter, seems to like drawing decapitated heads a little too much. Also, the love story is more tragedy than fulfillment for Alen. After all, it is hard to date the undead, no? All of these elements makes Eaters a mostly unique time, at least for one reviewer.

Eaters is an action or horror film that follows a duo of survivors through a dangerous landscape. Full of bizarre characters, Eaters is a must see for the many zombie fans out there as this Italian style of directing brings a little more flare to the screen in comparison to most North American made films. A fun romp, Eaters is a great way to spend ninety minutes immersed in excitement and a few strange situations. After all, this is the first Hitler-like midget that this reviewer has seen in film, ever!

Overall: 7 out of 10 (light hearted zombie road movie with lots of great dialogue and action)

*available in the United Kingdom.

Eaters reviewed at Horror Talk (Daniel Benson):

Eaters at Horror Talk

The film can be purchased at the film's website:

Eaters Official Website

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The Rage of the Yeti and SyFy's New Crop of Films: A Movie Review

Author/Ed Sum

*Spoiler Alert.

Director: David Hewitt.

Writers: Brooks Peck, and Craig Engler.

Cast: David Chokachi, Matthew and Yancy Butler.

SyFy’s The Rage of the Yeti comes close to being abominable if the viewer is expecting more than a tale about monsters on the loose. They can lay waste to skiers and mountain climbers traversing the Himalayas. If this film was a science fiction product, they could easily cause problems for the Rebel Forces on the planet Hoth. At least, to have a bigger budget to create some truly devastating moments and terrible looking monstrosities will be an improvement.

Instead, these creatures are hardly frightening and most of the time, they are lost in the white background while stalking their prey. No one can blame these Yetis for protecting their habitat; but when has there been a film that made a statement about who eats whom, and where humanity stands in the food chain in this frozen wasteland?

Not many. A good horrific tale can be made with The Thing and 30 Days of Night, where the isolation is brought to the forefront to explore. But with Rage of the Yeti, this film is more action-adventure and about the thrill of the hunt, compared to anything else. Jace (Matthew Kevin Anderson) and Jonas (David Chokachi) are two adventure seekers. They are employed by Mills (David Hewitt, "Stargate: Atlantis"), a filthy rich philanthropist interested in an old book located out in the frozen wasteland and in capturing one of these beasts alive. The previous team is stuck up there. They are trapped in a compound with what they believe are “polar bears” encircling them. It’s up to the new pair to save the day as nearly everyone else, predictably, gets picked off.

To be nitpicky about SyFy’s films does get redundant. Instead, a few good points will be mentioned: the Yeti’s origin is explored well enough to satisfy the requirements of this movie. If a full discourse were to be explored, Hewitt would have had more than a dead zone to deal with. Nearly every culture has a giant beast in its folklore. It can range from Big Foot to the Sasquatch, but they are all a subspecies of the same monstrous genome.

At least, some ethnic origins of the Yeti are revealed, like in what they are called by the Chinese. The name “Yuren” makes for some bad jokes, and that can cause this film to lose more than a fair a bit of steam. Part of the reason may be because Hewitt is testing what he can get away with. As an actor, he injects his McKay persona from "Stargate Atlantis" into the role. He’s rather high strung and uppity—technically he is the comic relief.

This movie is very much tongue-in-cheek about the subject of Yeti hunting and survival in the Arctic wasteland. Had the setting been changed to Antarctica, the possibility of survival would have been worse. By the end, the only message this film delivers is in how man is truly the alpha male. With enough smart-ass innovative ideas, even man can defeat the Abominable Snowman on his own turf.

Had this movie been about the new Thing, man would stand no chance.

Overall: 5 out of 10.

Rage of the Yeti at SyFy:

Rage of the Yeti Trailer at SyFy

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Bellflower and Letting Go of Angst: A Movie Review

Author/Michael Allen

Director/writer: Evan Glodell.

Bellflower is one of those films that are hard to describe. Surreal in some parts, meandering in others, this is a film that looks at heartbreak from a masculine perspective and the results are not always pretty. This film was well received at Sundance 2011 and Evan Glodell's first film as director is a little Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, a little bit of Apocalypse Now and even a bit of 1981's The Road Warrior.

Two friends, Woodrow (Evan Glodell) and Aiden (Tyler Dawson), have moved from Wisconsin to Los Angeles for their love of film. They truly adore Mad Max: The Road Warrior as Aiden quotes lines from Lord Humungus. So, they build a flamethrower and a car to prepare for a never coming apocalypse. Meanwhile Woodrow falls for Milly (Jessie Wiseman). Their multi-day trip to Texas and back is full of adventure and romance. But this is not a fairy tale and soon jealousy, infidelity and angst rear their ugly heads. This leaves Woodrow wanting vengeance. He finds the nobler forgiveness instead.

One of the drawbacks of this film is the meandering of the film's central plotline. Glodell has found some great material here, from his own heartbreak; however, the film swerves back and forth like a drunk on the road. If viewers are patient, then they will find something unique and insightful here. As the saying goes: "it's not the destination but the journey that matters." This journey has a few speed bumps along the way.

And that journey involves Woodrow and Aiden searching for a masculine identity that involves booze filled benders, fist fights and muscle cars. The drinking in this film is something that would make Hunter S. Thompson proud. As well, Aiden's unravelling is reminiscent of Martin Sheen's portrayal of Cpt. Willard during his self-destruction in a Hanoi Hilton apartment building. You just do not know how native Aiden is going to get while he picks up the pieces of his heart. As well, there is this tone of angst in the film as Woodrow looks to unleash his pain on someone or something. All the roads of anger just lead to more pain. Thankfully, the protagonist finds a way to let go.

Bellflower recently released on DVD (Nov. 15th) and this film is definitely recommended. The message of heartbreak is almost universal, after all. Just do not be fooled by some of the promotional material surrounding this film. This is not really an action film, but more of a darkly themed romance.

Overall: 8 out of 10 (this film grows on you and keeps you thinking well after the credits have rolled).

The film on Facebook:

Bellflower's Fan Page

A second review of this title at The Village Voice (Alicia Couvering):

Bellflower's Fan Page



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Season of the Witch's Missed Opportunities: A Movie Review

Author/Ed Sum

Director: Dominic Sena.

Writer: Bragi F. Schut.

Cast: Nicolas Cage, Ron Perlman and Claire Foy.



Nicolas Cage's Season of the Witch began the 2011 year with what many critics have called a lackluster product. It is a supernatural thriller and period drama that did not evolve beyond what the movie's central themes tried to play up. When the tale is about Behman von Bleibruck's (Cage) loss of faith with the church, perhaps the direction it should have gone towards is the depravity of everything Bleibruck witnessed. This look could have also included the hypocrisy that he saw existing within the Church.

Instead the film heads towards another direction. The opening act of witches being hanged and the departure of Bleibruck and Felson (Ron Perlman) from the knighthood are tied together when they venture through Styria.

They are identified by the people living there as traitors to the cause, but they are also given a chance to save face by Cardinal D'Ambroise (Christopher Lee). All they have to do is to escort a suspected witch, Anna (Claire Foy) to a monastery. The monks there are said to be able to perform a ritual that will put a stop to the plague she has supposedly cast upon the land.

Historical inaccuracies notwithstanding, Season of the Witch, is at best a game of "Dungeons and Dragons." At least the plague ridden 14th century is looking right. But when considering who the supporting cast consists of, the fantasy game is rearing its head: Kay von Wollenbarth (Robert Sheehan) , is a young altar boy who yearns to be a knight, Priest Debelzeq (Stephen Campbell Moore) is the cleric, and Hagamar (Stephen Graham) is the guide. This party even encounters the pitfalls a Game Master will typically toss at them, like crossing a rickety bridge with plenty of saving throws to make, a romp through the prerequisite misty woods and an encounter with angry wolves.

Now if this movie dwelled on the Key of Solomon, a plot device that is said to thwart evil and restore hope to the land, then there might be a film. The Key can do more than placate demons. It can also summon and bind higher powers. Two books are said to exist.

For those who can, the powers it has to control the supernatural world are incredible. And what it can do can force the very nature of every individual to look deeper into him or herself. Unless the spell caster is pure of heart, not everyone can use the book. That's why Wollenbarth is there. At least writer Bragi Schut has some details right, and he could have gone further with what the Key is capable of doing. Instead, this film is more about the filmmakers and actors playing a game for themselves to enjoy than to produce a product to satisfy the fans. The casting of three big names in the horror and fantasy industry is the biggest giveaway.

Ron Perlman loved being Hellboy, but in this film, he simply had fun picking on Cage with the dialogue that was written. That's about the only appeal with this movie, but that does not define a film. At least one actor enjoyed himself at the end.

Overall: 5 out of 10.

The film's homepage:

The Season of the Witch Homepage

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Restitution and Entering the Murderous World of Neo-noir: A Movie Review

Author/Michael Allen

*a screener of this film was provided by Video Services Corp.

Director: Lance Kawas.

Writer: Mark Bierlein.

Restitution is an indie neo-noir thriller that is set in Detroit, Michigan where anything can happen. And that anything is Tom Arnold playing an ex-Marine sharpshooter. As well, the protagonist gets to kill two thugs while meandering around the crime scene. Should someone arrest him? Also, there are dubious detectives, a damsel in distress and a phony corporation who likes to deal in nose candy rather than legit' products. All of these plot elements create for a very enjoyable time in a neo-noir world.

The plot takes awhile to build momentum as two characters flirt across a bar. Their romance is short lived as Bryan Spikes, an investigator, finds his boss to be a little too demanding. Soon, Bryan is heading over a bridge with a chain collar. A year passes and a writer is now on the scene investigating Bryan's final hours for an upcoming book. This writer also finds a criminal element working in the boatyards and in corporate America which leads him to a climactic confrontation.

Some of the characters are excitable as well including Tom the neighbour, played by Tom Arnold. The best lines in this production are ad-libed by Arnold as he plays a semi-neurotic and homophobic companion to Alex, the writer. As well, Mena Suvari plays the femme fatale whose back story of abandonment is believable and full of angst. Finally, C. Thomas Howell plays one of several villains whose presensce is only made know in the final third of the film. Each of these characters are given attention by writers Lance Kawas and Mark Bierlein. And even the writer, Bierlein, gets to play the central protagonist, Alex.

Restitution plays with a few genres, but centrally this is neo-noir. This is an under utilized genre that was popular in American cinema during the '50s and some might say this style of filmmaking is finding a resurgence. Elements of the neo-noir include two-faced detectives and beautiful women with secrets, while the film's story is a mystery to be solved. All of these elements are found in Restitution, a film that is well written and full of new discoveries.

There are a few stumbling points in the film, however. The film's early pacing is a little slow and the story takes some time to find momentum. However, once the plots and sub-plots find an anchor in their characters, the film moves along at a quick pace. The sell sheet for this film calls Restitution an exciting action piece: "Restitution is an action packed thriller that is filled to the brim with suspense, mystery, murder and sweet revenge" (Video Services Corp). That is a bit of an overstatement. There is one car explosion and some gunplay, but this film is not action packed. Instead the film is a little more evenly paced and events build in a believable way. Also, the acting is well played and even Arnold sheds some real tears. The story offers a twist in the end and Restitution is a fun time spent with a genre that is not used or seen very often.

This film released on DVD November 8th and this film fan would recommend Restitution to those who enjoy independently produced features. Well written and full of great dialogue, from Arnold and others, this is a film to be seen and possibly even admired. Plus, you have to see Arnold in camo fatigues holding a fourty pound rifle to really understand acting depth and true entertainment.

Story/writing/dialogue: 8 (lots of great interaction here).
Characters/believability: 7.75 (every major characters gets some back story).
Style/directing: 7.75 (limited budget for this film, some Dutch angles, overhead shots).

Overall: 7.8 (comparing this film to others similar in budget e.g. Speed of Thought).

The film's homepage can be found here:

The Restitution Official Website

A second review of this title at Video Views:

Restitution Reviewed at Video Views


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"Death Valley" and Explosive Endings: A Television Review ("Peace in the Valley")

Author/Michael Allen

*here be some spoilers.

Creator: Curtis Gwinn.

Director: Peter Lauer.

Writer: Eric Weinberg.

"Death Valley" ended its twelve show running November 21st with "Peace in the Valley." This was another short episode that packed in a lot of plot developments in twenty minutes. The vampires in the valley declared peace, John John (Texas Battle) and Rinaldi (Tania Raymonde) shared a kiss and a new creature was prowling the San Fernando Valley in murderous style. Only one question remained; will there be a second season?

That question has not been answered yet. In this episode, there was a lot of action and very little comedy. There was an awkward enema at the hospital, but this episode stayed mostly with the tone of drama. The peaceful meeting between the Undead Task Force and the vampires in the city started off well and then, ended badly. John John and Rinaldi are getting closer, while Dashell's niece reveals her new undead status. As well, a full out vampire attack on a hospital showed how quickly vampires can betray their word. All of this and more happened in this short twenty minute episode.

Speaking of which, a Seas. 2 has not been announced for this show and evidence of ratings for "Death Valley" is sparse. So, it is hard to hypothesize whether this show will see a second season. If this series could find a little more comedy in some of the episodes, then MTV's latest production will be a success. However, another addition to the dramatic supernatural genre in the vein of "True Blood" or "The Walking Dead" could seal this series' demise. There is just too much competition in the dramatic undead thriller genre. There needs to be a little more comedy out their in La La Land.

Overall, "Peace in the Valley" capture this viewer's attention with a lot of action a couple humourous moments and even some character development. If you are going to see only one episode of this series, then see this one. There is a lot to be seen in this showing and the filmmakers behind "Death Valley" know how to inject a lot of thrills in just a few minutes.

Overall: 7.5 out of 10 (this was the best show this reviewer saw of Seas. 1 which is only about six episodes, good thrills here, lots of drama, comedy?).

More on this television show at MTV:

Death Valley at MTV

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