Horror Occurs Near Midnight in Gilbert Chan's 23:59

The Singapore film 23:59 will make its way to North America this June. 23:59 is a film from director Gilbert Chan and the film is a supernatural thriller.

A platoon is haunted by visions of a ghost. Rumours are circulating that a woman has recently died at the exact time of 23:59. And now, a platoon commander thinks that he will perish at the same time.

A trailer for 23:59 has been released along with the film's DVD artwork. This title will release June 4th through Magnolia Pictures and cinema fans can preview the title below.

Release Date: June 4th, 2013 (DVD, Blu-Ray).

Director/writer: Gilbert Chan.

Cast: Mark Lee.

The trailer for the film is here:




*bonus features: The Making of 23:59, and trailers.

The film's fan page is here:

23:59 on Facebook

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Preview a Concept Trailer for Zombie Feature Beautiful People

A new film is being developed by Italian production company Doghouse Pictures. The title is Beautiful People and producer Marco Palese is attached to this film. Palese also produced the Italian language and zombie film Eaters.

Beautiful People is also an undead film. The film's story follows a scientist whose experiments are upset by masked raiders. Something is unleashed from the labs below.

A trailer for this feature has been released. The clip shows some of the makeup from the film and potentially, one of the characters.

Director: Amerigo Brini.

Writer: Andrea Cavaletto.

Cast: Francesco Primavera, Iselin N. Mork, Enrico Galli, Giorgio Rosati, Alexandra Antonioli, and Giulia Russo.

The first trailer for the film is here:



The film's fan page is here:

Beautiful People on Facebook

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Coffin Baby Turns Hollywood into a Graveyard July 9th, 2013

A new killer is in town and he goes by the name Coffin Baby. Coffin Baby is a serial killer that haunts Hollywood. His killing will be shown on DVD July 9th, through Image Entertainment.

Coffin Baby is also hounded by the local authorities. But, no one can find this killer's lair, a rundown hotel. The bodies begin to pile up and the city is terrorized, with Coffin Baby set to victimize more and more women.

Fans of serial killer thrillers will want to keep tabs on this release. The promotional material for the film (DVD artwork, stills) shows Coffin Baby as a grisly killer. His face is scarred and his body is twisted. Horror filmites can view the killer inside, in more detail and the available release details for the DVD are also below.

Christopher Doyle as Coffin Baby

Release Date: July 9th, 2013 (DVD, Video-on-demand).

Director: Dean Jones.

Writers: Josh Edwards and Dean Jones.

Cast: Bruce Dern, Brian Krause, Ethan Phillips, Clifton Powell and Lianne Spiderbaby.

The official trailer for Coffin Baby is here:



The fan page for Coffin Baby is here:

Coffin Baby on Facebook

More details on the release can be found here:

Coffin Baby at Image Entertainment

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Preview The Ganzfeld Experiment in this Sexy Clip

The Ganzfeld Experiment is a supernatural thriller from director Michael Oblowitz (The Breed). This film stars Ryan Donowho (Altitude), Rumer Willis (Sorority Row), Billy Zane and Dominic Purcell. And now, horror fans can check out a sexy trailer for the feature.

The clip shows four students, who set out to perform and extrasensory perception experiment. The characters seem to get sidetracked by hard drugs, sex and later: the supernatural. Then, a killer stalks this quartet and horror fans will know how this ends.

A release date for The Ganzfeld Experiment has not been confirmed. But, fans of indie thrillers can preview the film below.

Director: Michael Oblowitz.

Writers: Theodore E. Gildred III, Michael Oblowitz, and Caroline Riley.

Cast: Dianna Camacho, Taylor Cole, Ryan Donowho and Dominic Purcell.

The first trailer for The Ganzfeld Experiment is here (mature rated):



Source:

Dread Central. Article. 25 April 2013.

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The East Reveals Plot Details and Motivations in this Second Trailer

A new espionage thriller has completed. The East is a film that deals with corporations and anarchists. This title will release in theatres May 31st and a second trailer is now available for the film.

The clip focuses on the character Sarah (Brit Marling). Sarah is tasked with infiltrating an underground organization, which targets wealthy industrialists. This secret organization's concerns involve the environment and their methods are deadly. Sarah loses perspective, when she falls for The East's anarchist leader and her life might be in jeopardy. Thriller fans can find the trailer below.

Release Date: May 31st, 2013 (Theatrical).

Director: Zal Batmanglij.

Writers: Zal Batmanglij and Brit Marling.

Cast: Brit Marling, Alexander Skarsgård, Ellen Page, Toby Kebbell, Shiloh Fernandez, Aldis Hodge, Danielle Macdonald, and Hillary Baack.

The second trailer for The East is here:



The film's official website is here:

The East's Homepage

Source:

The East at Quiet Earth

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The Colony Releases Behind-the-scenes Clips #2 and #3

The sci-fi thriller The Colony is set to release in just a couple of days. Canadian distributor Entertainment One has released three behind-the-scenes clips for this thriller. The latest two reels are hosted below.

Both movie clips #2 and #3 deal with themes of leadership. Actor Bill Paxton plays Mason, an executioner. He kills off those who are a threat to a small group of survivors. And now, he has lost empathy for some of the others, in his group. Paxton provides more details on his character in the behind-the-scenes clip #2. In the next clip, Laurence Fishburne is Briggs. Briggs is another leader, who oversees an underground shelter. He also sets out with a small group of men, to contact another survival colony, after an ice age has frozen the world. Briggs is more empathetic, but no less brutal than Mason. Fishburne talks about his character, in depth, in the behind-the-scenes movie clip #3. Both actors discuss their character's view and approach to leadership.

Sci-fi fans are invited to view the latest for this thriller, which releases in theatres April 26th.

Release Date: April 26th, 2013 (Theatrical).

Director: Jeff Renfroe.

Writers: Jeff Renfroe, Svet Rouskov, Patrick Tarr, and Pascal Trottier.

Cast: Laurence Fishburne, Kevin Zegers, Bill Paxton, Charlotte Sullivan and John Tench.

The Colony behind-the-scenes featurette #2 is here:



The Colony behind-the-scenes featurette #3 is below:



The first behind-the-scenes clip is below:

The Colony Movie Clip #1 on 28DLA

The film's fan page is here:

The Colony on Facebook

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There is No Stopping Victor Crowley in this Red Band Trailer for Hatchet III

The Hatchet series has spawned two sequels to date. Hatchet III will be the first film without director Adam Green at the helm. However, Green has written the screenplay for this latest slasher film. And now, Dark Sky Films has released a Red Band trailer for the film.

This second sequel brings actress Danielle Harris back to the series. She plays Marybeth, once again. And, Marybeth believes that she has rid the local swamps of Victor Crowley (Kane Hodder). But, Crowley comes back from the dead, ready for vengeance. Now, it is up to Marybeth to rid the Louisiana swamps of a voodoo curse, which keeps Crowley alive and almost invincible.

Horror fans are invited to take a look at this mature rated trailer. A few of the film's jokes are on display and the reel features plenty of bloodshed. Film fans can prepare to see Crowley at his bloody worst below.

Release Date: June 14th (Limited Theatrical, Video-on-demand).

Director: BJ McDonnell.

Writer: Adam Green.

Cast: Danielle Harris, Kane Hodder, Zach Galligan, Caroline Williams and Derek Mears.

The Red Band trailer for Hatchet III is here:




*Hatchet III will play at New York City's Cinema Village and in Los Angeles at the Laemmle Music Hall on June 14th.

The film's fan page is here:

Hatchet III on Facebook

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Alyce Kills Releases A Better and Bloodier Trailer for its North American Release

Alyce Kills is a brutal film from The Collective and Bloody Disgusting Selects. This horror title will have a video-on-demand release before showing in theatres this May. Now, an official North American trailer has been released for the film.

The clip is longer than the original, seen here (Alyce Kills Trailer #1 on 28DLA). This second clip shows Alyce, after she has accidently killed her friend. She seems possessed by something supernatural as seen in her glazed eyes (above). Alyce continues her rampage after the guilt of accidental homicide consumes her. Preview the exciting clip below.

Release Date: May 21st (Video-on-demand) and May 24th (Theatrical).

Director/writer: Jay Lee.

Cast: Jade Dornfeld, Tamara Feldman, James Duval and Eddie Rouse.

Trailer #2 for Alyce Kills is here:



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Put this Tape in and Push Play for V/H/S 2: A Preview

Tagline: "Who's tracking who?"

The sequel to 2012's V/H/S is set to release in a couple of months. This horror anthology brings creatures to birthday parties and terror to your home entertainment centre this June. And, horror fans can preview some early promotional material for V/H/S 2 here.

The first movie poster has been released for this title from Magnolia Pictures (left). The graphic is shown with a blood red background. The skull looks made from videotape, while strange images can be seen in the darkness. This film will be one of the best to released this year, based on early reviews. And, horror fans can check on the film's specific release dates below, along with an official trailer.

Release Date: June 6th (Video-on-demand) and July 12 (DVD/Blu-ray).

Directors: Simon Barrett, Adam Wingard, Edúardo Sanchez, Gregg Hale, Timo Tjahjanto, Gareth Huw Evans and Jason Eisener.

Cast: Kelsy Abbott, Hannah Al Rashid, Devon Brookshire, Samantha Gracie, Hannah Hughes and Kevin Hunt.

The trailer for the film is here:



The film's fan page is here:

V/H/S 2 on Facebook

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"Zombieland" Introduces Some Unlikely Survivors: A Pilot Review

Director: Eli Craig.

Writers: Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick.

Cast: Kirk Ward, Maiara Walsh, Tyler Ross, and Izabela Vidovic.

Amazon has begun a pilot project for eight potential new shows. Each show is given one episode, which airs on video-on-demand and viewers pick the shows that they would like to see made into a series. One of the first pilots to air is "Zombieland." This potential series is based off the 2009 film. And, writers, Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, have returned from the movie to script this first episode. Only twenty-eight minutes long, the pilot episode for "Zombieland" only has one or two solid scenes and the same number of laughs. This series might be destined to stay on Amazon's back-burner.

The story for the series begins almost right after the events of the film. First, the character Tallahassee (Kirk Ward)is introduced. Some of his backstory is told through a zombie laden flashback. Then, the film focuses on the four characters from the film: Tallahassee, Columbus (Tyler Ross), Wichita (Maria Walsh) and Little Rock (Izabela Vidovic). They are in search of other survivors of a zombie apocalypse. The few living characters they encounter are soon swallowed up by the undead. And, the pilot hardly moves ahead any sense of plot.

The comedy in this initial episode is also a little sparse. This zombie fan only laughed once as a 76 gas station ball rolled over a running zombie. This scene showed some imagination, but only one other scene showed any extraordinary humour. Instead, this twenty-eight minute outing hosted several product placements. If you can spot more than six ad placements, then you are truly paying attention. Similarly, one of the show's gags involves counting how many times the word vagina is spoken by Tallahassee. The crude humour does not really tickle the funny bone and the comedy in this episode was mostly a disappointment.

There is one scene, however, that show's some of the writer's creativity. This short film begins with a sterile scene inside an office building. Two co-workers are doing very little work and they are oblivious to the events outside. The spectacle in a parking lot, shown through a large pane of glass, is truly chaotic. A gardener is fighting for his life against the undead horde and another man is accidentally set alight. These external and internal scenes contrasted well together, until they came together in an explosive fashion. It would be interesting to see if more scenes like this one could be expanded upon in a series.

Overall, "Zombieland" is a middling affair. The comedy is more miss than hit. As well, one of the protagonists is a little too immature to lead this rag-tag group of zombie survivors. The running jokes involving "Best Zombie Kill of the Week" and "Zombie Survival Rules" might not be enough to entertain most viewers. But, a series often needs time to develop into something noteworthy. This viewer would like to see at least two more episodes before sounding any death knell on "Zombieland."

Overall: 6.75 out of 10 (an interesting use of the camera in the first scene, some characters are lackluster, others are a little too awkward to survive a zombie apocalypse, too many ad placements).

Watch the pilot episode for "Zombieland" here and decide if the show is worth turning into a series:

"Zombieland" at Amazon Instant Video

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Thale's Identity Might Be Best Forgotten: A Movie Review

*full disclosure: a DVD screener of this film was provided by XLrator Media.

Director/writer: Aleksander Nordaas.

Cast: Silje Reinåmo, Erlend Nervold and Jon Sigve Skard.

There have been a number of films that have been flowing out of Norway, in recent years. Troll Hunter was a title that dealt with creatures of yore. This film released in 2010 to acclaim. The Cold Prey series of films also originated in this Scandinavian locale. Cold Prey was a slasher film that dealt with several unlucky hikers. Now, Norway and director Aleksander Nordaas have released a fantasy film titled Thale. The character Thale is a huldra, a mythical creature, which is an off-shoot of humanity. Thale's identity is at the core of the film. Slowly paced with very little tension, film fans might be best served searching for other titles from this smallish country.

The film begins with the characters Elvis (Erlend Nervold) and Leo (Jon Sigve Skard). They are partners in a cleaning business, that deals with the deceased. They are tasked with refurbishing a cabin out in some desolate woods. While cleaning, they find a hidden room, which houses a frightened woman, Thale (Silje Reinamo). She is mute, or unwilling to talk with Elvis and Leo. Then, the film slowly transcends into a character study, with a late climax offering a few tepid scenes, involving researchers.

The film's tone and genre seems to change throughout the film. It begins as a comedy and a buddy movie. However, the tone changes with the introduction of Thale. The film begins to show signs of suspense and mystery. Thale's origins are unknown and the experiments that she has undergone are only hinted at. Near the climax, the film turns into more of a fantasy feature. Several CGIed huldras emerge from the local woods to lay waste to a research team. Each of these tonal shifts are not brought with much energy or excitement. There are few thrills to be found here.

The pacing of the film is a detriment to its full potential. Events seem to go by at a snail's pace. There are several scenes of characters staring at each other. Or, Elvis is busy throwing up in a nearby bin. These scenes are repeated often and they become unnecessary over time. The film seemed hampered by a small budget. So, story elements are only developed slowly. This slow pacing will not be for everyone and this reviewer was hoping for more horror elements. The pacing is one of the film's weakest elements.

Thale is not a very compelling feature. It will not be for most people. Only a small minority of film fans will find something of value here. And, horror fans will be truly disappointed by this outing, despite some of the film's misleading promotional material. Films fans will find better entries from Norway in the films mentioned here, such as Troll Hunter and Cold Prey 2. Thale is just too small of a film to bring any true intrigue to the screen.

Overall: 6.25 out of 10 (characters are well developed, few thrills, small indie feature, explanations are not really given for much that happens in the film).

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Several Friends Find Terror in Mark Murphy's Crypt

The United Kingdom shot Crypt has released some promotional materials. A trailer and movie poster have been released for Mark Murphy's latest title. And, the trailer shows a deadly supernatural element.

The film follows a group of twenty-somethings. They break into a church in search of a few thrills. Their lives end tragically and mysteriously. Then, an investigation is started to find out how they were killed.

An early trailer for the Crypt is below. The clip shows a few youths challenging themselves to enter a haunted church. Strange events follow soon after they enter this holy site. Horror fans can view the clip below.

Director/writer: Mark Murphy.

Cast: Lucy Drive, Jan Chappell, Peter Woodward, Nicola Posener, and Adrian Bouchet.

The first trailer trailer for the Crypt is here:



The film's fan page is here:

Crypt on Facebook

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The Colony's Behind-the-scenes Featurette is Shot Hundreds of Feet Below Ground

The Colony is a post-apocalyptic thriller that is set for release in theatres April 26th. The film stars Laurence Fishburne and Bill Paxton. Entertainment One and Alliance Films will distribute this film in Canada and these distributors have released a behind-the-scenes featurette for The Colony.

The reel covers some of the challenges of production. Cinematographer Pierre Gill relates how certain visual effects shots were set up. Several bridge scenes were particularly difficult to shoot. As well, the actors relate their experiences shooting several hundred feet below ground, in one of N.O.R.A.D.'s decommissioned facilities. This four minute reel also houses extra footage from the film. Film fans can view the entire reel below.

Release Date: April 26th (Theatrical).

Director: Jeff Renfroe.

Writers: Jeff Renfroe, Svet Rouskov, Patrick Tarr, and Pascal Trottier.

Cast: Laurence Fishburne, Kevin Zegers, Bill Paxton, Charlotte Sullivan, John Tench, Atticus Dean Mitchell, Dru Viergever and Romano Orzari.

The Behind-the-scenes Featurette 1 of 3 is here:



The Colony on Facebook:

The Colony Fan Page

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Alyce Kills this May in Theatres: A Preview

The Collective and director Jay Lee (Zombie Strippers) will release the psychological thriller Alyce Kills this May. The film is a surrealistic journey through murder, guilt and the loss of a friend.

The story focuses on Alyce (Jade Dornfield). She leads a fun lifestyle of late night parties and drug use. This lifestyle leads to the death of her friend, through an accidental fall. The guilt of her death haunts Alyce, until she slowly begins to unravel. Now, Alyce is caught between the reality of events and everything else.

Alyce Kills will release in theatres May 24th, 2013, preceeded by a video-on-demand release May 21st. Horror fans can view a short trailer for the film below.

Release Date: May 24, 2013 (Theatrical), and May 21, 2013 (Video-on-demand).

Director: Jay Lee.

Producers: Zak Kilberg, Linda L. Miller.

Cast: Tamara Feldman, James Duval, Eddie Rouse, Larry Cedar, Yorgo Constantine and Jade Dornfeld.

A teaser trailer for Alyce Kills is here:



Ticket locations and theatrical locations for the premiere can be found here:

Alyce Kills at Bloody Disgusting Selects

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No One Lives in this Graphic for Ryuhei Kitamura's Latest

Tagline: "Everyone runs, everyone hides."

Recently, a Red Band trailer was released for Ryuhei Kitamura's (Midnight Meat Train) No One Lives. Now, the film has an updated graphic for fans. No One Lives will release in May, theatrically.

The graphic shows one character hung upside down. This image connects with some of the film's other material, including: the story and the latest trailer. The story involves a couple terrorized and kidnapped by a rogue biker gang. As well, the blood reds in the movie poster's background symbolize the bloody events that unfold May 10th. The Red Band trailer also shows some of the film's gore, which Kitamura is know for.

Horror fans can revisit the film's Red Band trailer below, before the film releases in just a few weeks.

Release Date: May 10th, 2013 (Theatrical).

Director: Ryuhei Kitamura.

Writer: David Cohen.

Cast: Luke Evans, Brodus Clay, Angus Macfadyen, Alexis Dziena, Laura Ramsey, Lindsey Shaw, America Olivo, Beau Knapp, and Derek Magya.

The Red Band trailer for No One Lives is here:




No One Lives on Facebook:

No One Lives on Facebook

Source:

Shock Till You Drop. Article. 17 April 2013.

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Look Skyward for Where the Devil Hides

Liddell Entertainment is the company behind the slasher film The Collection. Now, they are behind the supernatural title Where the Devil Hides. This titled was previously called The Occult and The Devil's Rapture. The first poster for Where the Devil Hides is hosted here, with the film's latest incarnation.

This film involves strange occurrences. Six girls are born on the same day. Eighteen years later, the girls begin to disappear, one at a time. Their disappearances could be part of kidnapping conspiracy, but a supernatural force is likely at work.

Horror fans can preview the film's artwork here. The graphic shows one character with extraordinary powers of flight. As well, a steeple hints that the film will involve demonic forces. Cast and crew details are listed below.

Release Date: October 11, 2013 (Theatrical).

Director: Christian Christiansen.

Writer: Karl Mueller.

Cast: Rufus Sewell, Anne Heche, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Colm Meaney, Thomas McDonell, Adelaide Kane, Leah Pipes, Jennifer Carpenter, Stacey Edwards and Ric Reitz.

More info' on this film will be released at the Liddell Entertaiment website:

Where the Devil Hides at Liddell Ent.

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Dead Snow: War of the Dead Rises in These Photos

Norwegian director Tommy Wirkola (Hansel & Gretel Witch Hunters) has begun production on a new horror feature. His latest is a sequel to the 2009 film Dead Snow. The sequel is being called Dead Snow: War of the Dead and a few stills from production have been released.

The photos show German soldiers risen from the dead. The above still shows a monstrous figure trying to enter a car, while a second photo (below) shows a NAZI officer with similar intentions.

Director Wirkola promises that Dead Snow: War of the Dead will be funnier and gorier than the original. Earlier in 2013, Wirkola said of the blood: "we have a script that I am super excited about, which is bigger, scarier, funnier, more action-filled and gorier than the previous one." Horror fans should prepare for a spectacle. Also, this second film will bring a troupe of American zombie hunters into the snow and the zombie horde will be increased in size. Fans of international horror can preview the film with these stills hosted above and below.

Director: Tommy Wirkola.

Cast: Vegar Hoel.









More behind the scene images are available below:

Dead Snow: War of the Dead at Joblo

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Expiration Has a Short Shelf Life: A Movie Review

*there are spoilers here.

Director: Alastair Orr.

Writers: Jonathan Jordaan and Alastair Orr.

Expiration is a film that completed in 2011, under the title Rancid. Since then, this film has received a release date through Grand Entertainment Group (April 19th, 2013). This low budget indie film was shot in South Africa and Expiration features a few characters stuck in a research lab. Fans of film will become familiar with these hallways as they are shot over and over again. Much of the film involves cat and mouse chase sequences, which create few thrills. Expiration is a fairly average zombie styled feature and most horror fans will likely be disappointed by this outing.

The budget for this film was small and so is the story. The plot involves four participants in a research experiment. Unknowingly, they consent to allow the scientists to clone them. Then, their clones are given an experimental drug, called B15. This drug heals some of debilitating injuries and turns others into raving lunatics. The survivors are then chased, continually, by those seeking an easy meal.

This film is indie in nature because of its small budget. Expiration was made for under 70K. This small budget does not allow for a large cast. There are really only six central characters in this film, with a few minor ones. Often found in independent films, one primary set is used for the whole film, an abandoned government facility. Viewers will see certain hallways and rooms shot over and over again. Also, the story is simple, to keep costs down. The plot is focused, but it does not allow for very much exterior shooting. Thus, the shooting style is simple and unexciting. This indie film is unable to rise above the many challenges of a small budget.

Expiration houses a lot of filler. There are a number of sequences that are repeated. A solider enters the research facility to fix a camera. He is hounded by the film's zombie-like lab rats. Another soldier enters the facility to track down the remnants of a previous experiment. He and his comrade are also chased by the experiment-gone-wrong denizens. A large portion of the film is full of cat and mouse scenes, which become repetitive and monotonous over time. The pacing suffers because of these scenes. And, this title needed to move ahead at a quicker speed.

Thus, this film is not recommended. This style of film has been tried in other features: The Terror Experiment (2012) and The Ganzfeld Experiment (2013). The plotline is nothing new. And, the small budget for Expiration does not allow the film to step out of its small confines. The film grows tiresome over time, despite some interesting characters. The acting in the film is also well done. But, characters are often only one meal away from being eaten. The music from composer Fabian Sing is also well put together. Yet, there is very little tension to amplify on the screen. Expiration is simply an average indie zombie film.

Horror fans might be enticed to see the film based on promotional material. The scenes in the trailer are most of the exciting shots compiled in under two minutes. The other eighty-eight minutes or so involve only a few thrills and lots of repetitious scenes and scenery. Cinephiles are encouraged to see other better indie zombie films such as Extinction: The G.M.O. Chronicles (2011), 13 Eerie (2013), State of Emergency (2013), or a host of other films. Expiration grows old and moldy after only a few hours on the shelf, or a few minutes in a home entertainment player.

Overall: 6.5 out of 10 (good characters, solid music, shaky cam', repeating scenery, monotonous).

A trailer for the film is available here, on 28DLA:

Expiration Trailer on 28DLA

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Prepare to Watch the Blood Fly in this Red Band Tailer for No One Lives

The brutal horror thriller No One Lives now has a Red Band trailer. This title, from Japanese director Ryuhei Kitamura (Midnight Meat Train), will be released in select cities in the month of May. And, horror fans can preview the film's mayhem here.

The story involves a couple on vacation. Their leisure is interrupted by a sadistic biker gang, who kidnap them. However, the surprise favours the victims, when one of the abductees turns out to be a trained killer.

The violence explodes in this film's latest clip. Several characters find themselves on the wrong end of a sharp implement and the blood flies. Horror fans can preview the film, with this exciting reel below.

Release Date: May 10, 2013 (Limited Theatrical).

Director: Ryûhei Kitamura.

Writer: David Cohen.

Cast: Luke Evans, Adelaide Clemens, Derek Magyar, Beau Knapp and America Olivo.

The red band trailer for No One Lives is here:



*this title will open in select cities May 10th, including: NYC, L.A, Chicago,
San Francisco, Dallas, Philadelphia, Miami, Boston, Detroit, Houston and Baltimore.

The film's fan page is here:

No One Lives on Facebook

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Fortune Cookie Prophecies Promises Death Around Every Corner

Osiris Entertainment is set to release another indie thriller. The title, this time, is called the Fortune Cookie Prophecies. And, this film blends Chinese mythology with the supernatural.

In the story, four friends head out to a cabin for a fun weekend. They share stories over dinner, while opening their fortune cookies. Each message in their dessert promises the reader an early death. Then, characters begin to succumb to the prophecy. Can the survivors change their fate?

Fortune Cookie Prophecies will release on DVD June 4th and the trailer for the film is below. The clip shows two couples pursed by a spirit. The blood flows and indie thriller fans are encouraged to take a look at the reel, inside.

Release Date: June 4th, 2013 (DVD).

Director/writer: Henry Li.

Cast: Emily Alatalo, John Maillet, Adam Kolozsvari, Amanda Strachan, and Vivian Cheung.

The trailer for the film is here:



Fortune Cookie Prophecies at Osiris Entertainment:

Fortune Cookie Prophecies at Osiris

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A Killer Crashes an Engagement Party in No One Will Know

Tagline: "Not even those closest to you know the truth."

Osiris Entertainment is set to release another murder mystery. Their latest title is No One Will Know and the film involves the cover-up of a crime. This indie thriller will release June 18th on DVD.

The story focuses on Nathan (Ben Bledsoe) and Aubrey (Jesse Draper). They have committed murder on the day of their engagement party. Now, they have to cover their tracks and deflect questions on Elle's disappearance, or the authorities will come knocking.

The official DVD artwork is hosted here, from Osiris. The graphic shows the body of a young woman and her killer. Fans of thrillers can find the rest of the release details for No One Will Know and a film still, below.


Release Date: June 18th, 2013 (DVD).

Director: Raj Reddy.

Writers: Logan Leikam and Raj Reddy.

Cast: Ben Bledsoe, Mirai Booth-Ong, Kelly Curran, Bettina Devin, Jesse Draper, and
Amanda Dreschler.

The film's fan page is here:

No One Will Know on Facebook

No One Will Know at Osiris Entertainment:

No One Will Know at Osiris Ent.

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Murder Eleven Will Take Place October 1st, 2013 Through Indican Pictures

Indican Pictures have picked up Jim Klock's Murder Eleven for distribution. Murder Eleven will release on DVD October 1st, 2013 and a few details on the release are available here.

Murder Eleven is a story of a serial killer. This sadist stalks prostitutes and he has already killed ten, to date. Detectives Jesse (Richard Reid) and Mayfield (Michael Mack) are tasked with tracking him down. Unfortunately, the murderer has struck again. Katey has been abducted and the detectives only have a few hours to find her, before Katey is Murder Eleven.

A still from this feature is hosted below. The photo shows actress Autumn Federici as Katey. She is bound to a chair and gagged by the killer. An official trailer for this feature will be released shortly.

Release Date: October 1, 2013.

Director/writer: Jim Klock.

Cast: Jim Klock, Julienne Irons, Michael Mack, Autumn Federici and Richard Reid.



*this film has won awards including: Best Actress in a Feature Drama (Julienne Irons) and Best Writer in the Feature Category (Jim Klock).

More details on the release will be posted on the Code 3 Films fan page:

Code 3 Films on Facebook

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Haunted Poland: The Origins is Set to Shoot a Sequel: A Preview

Directors Pau Masó and Ewelina Lukaszewska will continue the Haunted Poland saga with Haunted Poland: The Origins. This second film has moved into pre-production and a few details from the film have been released. As well, this title will begin shooting in May, 2013, once funded.

The story follows Elewin into the haunted forests of Poland. Here, a supernatural mystery begins to develop, which leads to her disappearance. Irene, a character from the first film, comes in search of her. But, Irene uncovers a demonic mystery, instead.

The first film poster and concept trailer for Haunted Poland: The Origins are here. The graphic highlights Elewin and the demon that lies just below the human flesh. As well, a proof of concept trailer has been released for the film. The reel again features Elewin as she tries to escape a supernatural force. More details on this sequel are below.

Directors/writers: Pau Masó and Ewelina Lukaszewska.

Cast: Ewelina Lukaszewska, Kate Korbel, and Irene Gonzalez.

The concept trailer is here:



This title has started an Indiegogo campaign, which can be found here:

Haunted Poland: The Origins at Indiegogo

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The Sorority Party Massacre is Missing Something: A Movie Review

*full disclosure: a screener of this film was provided by the filmmakers.

Directors: Chris W. Freeman and Justin Jones.

Writer: Chris W. Freeman.

Cast: Marissa Skell, Eve Mauro, Ed O'Ross, Yvette Yates, Thomas Downey, Casey Fitzgerald, and Rebecca Grant.

Sorority Party Massacre is a horror film from directors Chris W. Freeman and Justin Jones. These two filmmakers have worked on another thriller titled Mirror Image (2012). Their latest indie thriller will release on DVD soon and film fans might want to read this review before buying. Sorority Party Massacre is light on story and character development. And, the bevy of beauties add little to the title, unlike the film's music. This film is more fluff than substance and most viewers might be more entertained by the trailer for this feature, compared to the film itself.

The story begins in Grizzly Cove. Here, a Police Captain's (Kevin Sorbo) daughter has gone missing. She was supposed to attend a competition for a college grant, involving other sorority members. She has disappeared along with several other girls. An angry detective is sent to find her, but he is unable to stop the bodies from piling up. Instead, the detective seems to bumble from murder to murder, much like many of the other characters.

This character reenacts a scene from 1996's Scream

The one film element that this reviewer enjoyed was the music. Composer Michael Quinlan creates a diverse soundtrack for this feature. Initially, the music is overdone and the film comes across as a music video. However, the musical choices often keep the events onscreen interesting. From heavy bass to lighter tracks, the music is one of the film's stronger points.

The story is the film's weakest element, though. The ending does add some interesting character reveals. But, the many female characters rarely develop outside of their cliches. They each play a certain role, which is the same from one to the next. These characters are interchangeable. As well, Det. Watts (Thomas Downey) is given little backstory. He is an angry cop and this is the only angle that is developed for the character. Other minor characters are hardly developed at all. Viewers might lose interest in what the characters onscreen are doing or not doing as this viewer did.

Sorority Party Massacre is a fairly shallow affair. This film begins as a music video and an homage to Wes Craven's Scream, but it never rises above averageness. There are a few jokes to be had here. A scene involving a mentally disturbed man and an eavesdropping session brings some laughter. Yet, these scenes are few and far between. Characters are murdered before they show any promise and the main murderer's motivations involve boredom. This watcher felt the same as the killer. This film cannot be recommended to horror or comedy fans.

There are too few quality scenes in Sorority Party Massacre. And, the film seems to bounce around between genres. The film begins as a horror feature and then changes into a comedy. Later, this title is a drama. Its ever changing form creates for a little instability. The film is all over the place and any chance for cohesion and substance are lost somewhere in Act II. Even the T & A, which is expected in a film like this, is light. So, viewers are sure to find better films out their in the indie thriller market, which houses a few gems. The treasures here are rare and not worth much.

Overall: 6.5 out of 10 (thin plot, inconsistencies, why is the Sheriff wearing high heels?, too many killers to make the writing believable).

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All American Zombie Drugs is a Good High: A Movie Review

*full disclosure: a DVD screener of this film was provided by Midnight Releasing.

Director/writer: Alex Ballar.

Cast: Beau Nelson, Wolfgang Weber, Susan Graham, and Natalie Irby.

All American Zombie Drugs is a film that completed in 2010. And now, in 2013, the film will move to home theatre formats April 23rd, through Midnight Releasing. The film is a blend of comedy and horror, but the film focuses more on the laughter than the scares. All American Zombie Drugs is well acted and shot. And, the film stands out in production values, despite a smallish budget. The film will have most viewers laughing.

The story involves four drug using friends. They spend their days looking for ways to get high. The characters are also looking to make some easy money to support their habit. Sebastian (Beau Nelson), Vinny (Wolfgang Weber), Kara (Susan Graham) and Melissa (Natalie Irby) decide to buy some hard drugs from a local supplier to sell, but they get ripped off. With no other choice, this foursome sets out to create their own illegal inventory. Their mix involves used cat litter and an assortment of household products; the result is a mixed bag. Soon, Vinny is seeing the dead rise from their graves, while the others are oblivious to the undead going-ons.

All American Zombie Drugs is an excellent indie film. This title was produced for under or near 200K. Though, the film is not hampered by its budget. The acting from the characters is well done. Natalie Irby as a standoffish goth queen, is especially good. As well, Alex Ballar's shooting style utilizes lots of outside shooting. The production is not limited to a couple of interior sets as many indie films are. And, All American Zombie Drugs is a quality film.

Some of that quality comes from the well written and comedic script. Ballar keeps the focus on the characters. These characters are not overly deep, because the tone of the film is meant to be light. Many of the gags involve the misuse of drugs. For instance, the characters Vinny and Sebastian decide to drop LSD before work. They are soon rolling on the ground and Vinny is seeing undead hallucinations. Sebastian is simply happy to drive his mower around in circles. This scene will create laughter for some. Shortly after that, Vinny is seeing angels in the eyes of Melissa, the goth girl. His awestruck expressions created giggles for this viewer. The comedy in this piece is its strongest element.

Overall, All American Zombie Drugs is a must see. Fans of comedy will find a lot to enjoy in this film. Though, the horror here is limited. This production offers a few zombies near the climax. However, All American Zombie Drugs is essentially a comedy. The witty dialogue and interplay between the characters is one of the highlights of the film. The actors obviously enjoyed working together. Also, the film's light-hearted tone keeps the film entertaining. Characters die here and there, but the film continues to offer hilarity and more jokes. This title is well put together and fun to watch.

This title will release on DVD shortly and comedy fans are encouraged to pick it up. Light-hearted, well produced and hilarious, All American Zombie Drugs is a laugh out loud, good time. This film has few shortfalls (some silly scenes). And, the film offers an anti-drug message, without coming across as preachy. All American Zombie Drugs will rise from the grave soon and film fans should take notice.

Overall: 7.75 out of 10.

The film's fan page is here:

All American Zombie Drugs on Facebook

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Mr. Jones will have Its World Premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival April 19th

Mr. Jones is a horror feature, which will make its debut at the Tribeca Film Festival. Karl Mueller, the writer behind 2011's The Divide, will helm this feature. And, the film's story is mysterious.

The plotline follows Scott and his girlfriend, Penny. Together, they set out for an isolated cabin, in search of a creative breakthrough. They find a strange neighbour, by the name of Mr. Jones, instead. Mr. Jones is a relentless artist who works in the woods at night. But, Mr. Jones latest work might be deadly for both Scott and Penny.

Mr Jones will debut April 19th and the film's latest press materials are hosted here. The film's first poster is located above. And, the graphic alludes to some sort of human artistry, in blood reds. As well, a still from the film is available here. The still shows actor Jon Forster as Scott and Sarah Jones as Penny. They appear spooked by something in the night.

Release Date: April 19th, 2013 (Limited Theatrical).

Director/writer: Karl Mueller.

Cast: Sarah Jones, Rachel O'Meara, Jon Foster, Mark Steger and Jessica Dowdeswell.

Mr Jones at the Tribeca Film Festival website:

Mr Jones at the Tribeca Film Festival w/Premiere Dates

Source:

Mr. Jones at the Film Catalogue

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Alastair Orr's Expiration Involves Human Guinea Pigs and a Dangerous Experiment

Tagline: "Everyone has an expiration date."

It has almost been two years since there has been any word on Alastair Orr's Rancid. In 2011, a trailer and synopsis was released for this zombie title. Horror fans reacted with some excitement for this action thriller. Since then, a second trailer has been released for this title and Grand Entertainment Group has picked up this film for distribution. Rancid has been renamed to Expiration. And, the story still follows a dangerous experiment.

The film is set in an isolated research facility. Here, four test subjects are given an experimental drug. Something goes wrong as the scientists and subjects must do battle against horrific monsters. Few will survive and most will be changed forever.

Fans of zombie thrillers are encouraged to check out the new details on Expiration, below.

Release Date: April 19th, 2013 (DVD).

Director: Alastair Orr.

Writers: Jonathan Jordaan and Alastair Orr.

Cast: Brandon Auret, Clive Gilson, Craig Hawks, Christien Le Roux, Ryan Macquet, and Alex Radntiz.

The second trailer for Expiration is here:



The first, arguably better, trailer is listed here:

Rancid Trailer #1 on 28DLA

*filmed in South Africa.

Source:

Expiration at Grand Entertainment Group

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Evil Dead is a Bloody Spectacle: A Movie Review

Director: Fede Alvarez.

Writers: Fede Alvarez, Diablo Cody, Sam Raimi and Rodo Sayagues.

Cast: Jane Levy, Shiloh Fernandez, Lou Taylor Pucci, Jessica Lucas and Elizabeth Blackmore.

Fede Alvarez's version of the Evil Dead takes place thirty-two years after the original. Sam Raimi is still here to produce this version, along with former showrunner Bruce Campbell. But, the 2013 version is much bloodier than the original. Evil Dead fans might be disappointed by the lack of campy humour from the first film, but Alvarez's interpretation is quite spine-chilling. Most horror fans will be satisfied by this new vision.

The story has changed somewhat from the original. Instead of a sex romp, five friends set off for an isolated cabin for a drug intervention; Mia (Jane Levy) is the addict. The others vow to stay at the location, until Mia gets clean. Mia encounters more challenges, however. A friend, Eric (Lou Taylor Pucci), opens a flesh-bound tome and he recites an ancient curse. A demonic spirit is released from the woods. And now, these five friends must do whatever it takes to find a way to counter the demon and its cruel intentions.

Hide the silverware.

And, this version of the Evil Dead feels like a new vision. This film is not a scene by scene remake of the original. Some die-hard fans might argue that the settings and basic plot structures are the same across both Evil Dead films, both past and present. Yet, the character motivations are different. The theme of the film, drug rehabilitation, is a little more serious, compared to the earlier work. Evil Dead fans will notice that certain conventions are repeated from the first film and the second film, Evil Dead II (1987). A chainsaw is used and amputations take place. However, Alvarez focuses more on the visual style of this latest film, compared to Raimi's earlier work. Alvarez is intent on creating a bloody spectacle. Also, Alvarez' version is more global. If the demon escapes, the world is endangered by a satanic plot. The production values have, understandably, also impoved over the years. The make-up effects are much more believable, here. These subtle changes make this film appear slightly grander, in scale.

Fede Alvarez's approach to horror is also splattered in gore. This title has been rated Restricted and rightfully so. There are several bloody examples of gore. One woman cuts here face apart with a piece of a mirror. Another character takes an electric bread knife to her arm, in a desperate bid to prevent possession. The results of his surgery eventually lead to a double-amputation, which is comical to watch (for those who like dark humour). As well, a nail-gun fight leaves two characters with multiple wounds. This late scene creates for an action packed climax, which is a sight to see. The finale goes all out with a blood rain shower and a flaming pyre. The colours on the screen are vibrant and bright. Alvarez's directing style and focus on the visuals create for a truly gruesome sight.

Evil Dead 2013 is an original work and it stands on its own. Although this title pays homage to the earlier films, Alvarez's treatment is more focused on creating a bloodier visual sphere, compared to the earlier 1981 and 1987 films. The director's intent is to make the viewership squirm. He achieved this goal, for one viewer. And, horror fans are encouraged to see this brutal material on the big screen, where it can deliver a greater and bloodier impact.

Overall: 8 out of 10 (interesting characters, a curious plot device, lots of gore: tree rapings, animal killing and several stabbings).

A fan page for the film is here:

Evil Dead on Facebook

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