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DVD Reviews => The "Marathon" reviews => Topic started by: addicted2dvd on September 29, 2017, 08:04:51 PM

Title: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on September 29, 2017, 08:04:51 PM
Horror/Halloween 2017 Challenge

(https://s22.postimg.org/wrvrb2pap/16953.gif)

We tried this last year and failed.... So attempting again this year. Years ago I had the record of 103 films watched in the one month. Of course I was not working at the time. So this year my roommate Danae Cassandra and I are going to combine efforts to try see if we together can beat the 103 films in the month. Meaning we have to each watch at least 52 films each. Since we both work full time this will be a challenge.

What Counts:
Any movie that we feel fits in with the season. Whether it is a straight up horror movie... Comedy horror including spoofs (ie Scary Movie) or just straight comedies with horror elements (ie Buffy the Vampire Slayer/Hocus Pocus)... animated films with horror elements (ie Frankenweiner/ParaNorman) Or even Kid friendly films that fit in with the season (ie The Dog That Saved Halloween/HalloweenTown). Pretty much anything we feel fits the season.

(https://media.tenor.com/images/f4e01d38bee4562b4c26a8a2af3d05a8/tenor.gif)

Count:
Pete: 37
Danae: 35
Both: 16
Total: 88
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 01, 2017, 05:36:34 PM
I'll put up full reviews once I get the video card in my desktop working.  Until then, I'll keep a list here.

1.  1408 - 4/5
2.  The Haunted Castle (Schloß Vogelöd) - 2.5/5
3.  Dracula (1931) - 4/5
4.  The Premature Burial - 3.5/5
5.  Tales From the Crypt - 3.5/5
6.  It (2017) - 4/5
7.  The Most Dangerous Game - 3/5
8.  I Bury the Living - 3/5
9.  The Ghost Ship (1943) - 3/5
10.  The Nude Vampire (La vampire nue) - 3.5/5
11.  Creepshow - 3.5/5
12.  Christine -3.5/5
13.  It (1990) - 3.75/5
14.  Frankenstein Created Woman - 3.5/5
15.  Extraordinary Tales - 3/5
16.  13 Ghosts (1960) -3/5
17.  The Watcher in the Woods - 3/5
18.  The Worst Witch - 1.5/5
19.  Ghost of Mae Nak - 3/5
20.  Theatre of Blood - 3.75/5
21.  Night of the Living Dead (1968) - 3.25/5
22.  An Evening of Edgar Allen Poe - 3.75/5
23.  The Long Hair of Death (I lunghi capelli della morte) - 3/5
24.  The Invisible Man - 3.5/5
25.  Wishing Stairs (Yeogogoedam 3: Yeowoogyedan) - 3.25/5
26.  Isle of the Dead - 3.25/5
27.  The Shallows - 4/5
28.  Cat's Eye - 3.25/5
29.  In the Mouth of Madness - 4/5
30.  The Thing (1982) - 4/5
31.  The Conjuring - 4/5
32.  The Blob (1958) - 3/5
33.  Let the Right One In (Låt den rätte komma in) - 4/5
34.  Tower of Terror - 2.75/5
35.  The Nightmare Before Christmas - 5/5
36.  Corpse Bride - 4.5/5
37.  Cube - 3/5
38.  Brides of Dracula - 3.5/5
       It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown - 5/5
39.  The Cat and the Canary (1927) - 3.25/5
40.  The Creeping Flesh - 3/5
41.  The Crater Lake Monster - 2.75/5
42.  The Witching - 2/5
43.  Ugetsu - 5/5
44.  The Tomb of Ligeia - 4/5
45.  Creature From the Black Lagoon - 4/5
46.  Revenge of the Creature - 3.5/5
47.  Lifeforce - 3.5/5
48.  The Rocky Horror Picture Show - 4/5
49.  Hotel Transylvania 2 - 3/5
50.  Bride of Frankenstein - 3.5/5
51.  The Silence of the Lambs - 4.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 01, 2017, 05:50:35 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/089859820021f.jpg)      Dark Night of the Scarecrow (1981/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082235/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Night_of_the_Scarecrow) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWCt9QKWtLU) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)VCI Entertainment, Wizan Film Properties (United States)
Director:Frank De Felitta
Writing:J. D. Feigelson [J.D. Feigelson] (Screenwriter), J. D. Feigelson [J.D. Feigelson] (Story By), Butler Handcock (Story By)
Length:97 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Charles Durning as Otis P. Hazelrigg
Robert F. Lyons as Skeeter Norris
Claude Earl Jones as Philby
Lane Smith as Harless Hocker
Tonya Crowe as Marylee Williams

Plot:
When young Marylee Williams (Tonya Crowe) is found viciously mauled, all hell breaks loose in her small rural town. Officious Postmaster Otis P. Hazelrigg (Charles Durning) leads a gang of bigots in pursuit of the suspect; her mentally challenged friend Bubba Ritter (Larry Drake). Finding him hiding inside a scarecrow, they exact brutal mob "justice"...only to discover a tragic mistake! Now a strange apparition stalks the land seeking each of them out, as the legend of the Scarecrow begins.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a TV Movie from the '80s that I somehow missed this one when it originally aired. I found this one to be a very good movie. It has great atmosphere. The cast... with a lot of familiar faces... did a wonderful job. I can easily see this film become a Halloween tradition. Highly recommended.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 02, 2017, 05:58:17 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/60/602573215319f.jpg)      Havenhurst (2017/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3424690/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyBintoFWUU) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Havenhurst) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Brainstorm Media (United States)
Director:Andrew C. Erin
Writing:Andrew C. Erin (Writer), Daniel Farrands (Writer)
Length:84 min.
Video:Widescreen :1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English

Stars:
Julie Benz as Jackie/Jamie
Belle Shouse as Sarah
Josh Stamberg as Tim
Danielle Harris as Danielle
Douglas Tait as Jed

Plot:
Welcome to Havenhurst, a gothic apartment complex in the heart of New York City's historic Tudor City district. A beautifully maintained, turn-of-the-century building that houses over 3,000 residents...and many dark secrets. The rent is reasonable and the rules are simple: live a good and decent life and you can stay for as long as you like. Break the rules and face certain eviction...and never be seen or heard from again.

JACKIE SULLIVAN, a troubled young woman with a serious alcohol addiction, is released from rehab and given a second chance with a new job and a furnished apartment at Havenhurst. Guilt-ridden over the tragic loss of her 6-year-old daughter, Jackie is quickly drawn into the mysteries of Havenurst, in particular the unsolved disapppearance of the apartment's previous occupant, a young woman who fled in the middle of the night and disappeared without a trace.

Aided by a hardened New York police detective who is well aware of Jackie's checkered past and a lonely foster child who lives under the shadow of her caretakers' sadistic whims, Jackie must not only face her inner demons...but the very real ones that live deep within the walls of Havenhurst.


My Thoughts:

I watched this one on Netflix when I saw that it starred Julie Benz. I been a fan of hers since her Buffy the Vampire Slayer days. So I was excited to check this one out. While it is not a terrible film.... it also is no more then average. In other words it is nothing special but was good enough to keep my interest throughout. I would probably add this one to my physical collection if I found it cheap enough. If nothing else but to add to my Julie Benz collection.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 02, 2017, 02:21:01 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883476150451f.jpg)      Extraordinary Tales: Special Edition (2015/Luxembourg, Belgium, Spain)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3454574/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4IDwG_FMpM) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)GKIDS, Cinedigm Entertainment (United States)
Director:Raúl Garcia
Writing:Edgar Allan Poe (Original Material By), Raúl Garcia (Writer)
Length:73 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Commentary: DTS: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Christopher Lee [Sir Christopher Lee] (1922) as Narrator The Fall of the House of Usher (voice)
Bela Lugosi as Narrator The Tell-Tale Heart (voice)
Julian Sands as Narrator The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar
Guillermo del Toro as Narrator The Pit and the Pendulum (voice)
Roger Corman as Prince Prospero in The Masque of the Red Death (voice)

Plot:
Five of Edgar Allan Poe's best-known stories are brought to vivid life in this heart-pounding animated anthology featuring Sir Christopher Lee, Bela Lugosi, Julian Sands, Roger Corman and Guillermo del Toro. Murderous madmen, sinister villains and cloaked ghouls stalk the darkened corridors of Poe's imagination, as his haunting tales are given a terrifying new twist by some of the most beloved figures in horror film history.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Another film I found on Netflix. The first thing I noticed is that I found the animation to be a little off putting. While the segments has different styles of animation I found them all to be a bit odd. Unfortunately I couldn't really get into this film.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 03, 2017, 01:18:36 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192354960f.jpg)      The Boy (2016/United States, Canada)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3882082/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Boy_(2016_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGbB9UQ6r1g) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:William Brent Bell
Writing:Stacy Menear (Writer)
Length:98 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Lauren Cohan as Greta Evans
Rupert Evans (1977) as Malcolm
James Russell as Brahms Heelshire
Jim Norton (1968) as Mr. Heelshire
Diana Hardcastle as Mrs. Heelshire

Plot:
The Boy is a frightening thrill ride directed by William Bell (The Devil Inside) and starring Lauren Cohan (The Walking Dead). Greta (Cohan) is a young American woman who takes a job as a nanny in a remote English village. She soon discovers that the family's 8-year-old is a life-sized doll that they care for just like a real boy, as a way to cope with the death of their own 20 years prior. After violating a list of strict rules, a series of disturbing and inexplicable events bring Greta's worst nightmare to life, leading her to believe that the doll is actually alive.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is the first time I watched this one. As a Walking Dead fan the first thing I noticed is that it stars Lauren Cohan (Maggie). Despite (or maybe even because of) the unexpected twist I rather enjoyed this one. This film went from one type of creepy atmosphere to an entirely different type. I would say it is definitely worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 03, 2017, 03:46:03 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/63/634991356442f.jpg)      Dog Soldiers (2002/United Kingdom)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0280609/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog_Soldiers_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX9S3hdgZ5g) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)First Look Studios (United States)
Director:Neil Marshall
Writing:Neil Marshall (Writer)
Length:105 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby TrueHD: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Sean Pertwee as Wells
Kevin McKidd as Cooper
Emma Cleasby as Megan
Liam Cunningham as Ryan
Thomas Lockyer as Bruce

Plot:
A band of soldiers is dispatched to war games deep in the woods. When they stumble across a rival team slaughtered in camp, they realize they're not alone. Something deadly is waiting in the darkness: something not animal and not human. Holed up in an abandoned farmhouse, the soldiers start a bloody battle against the beasts. Dawn is only a few hours away but they may not live to see it.

DOG SOLIDERS is a terrifying chiller in the tradition of Predator and An American Werewolf in London.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is one I haven't seen in several years. Going in I basically only remembered 2 things about this film. It is werewolves vs. soldiers and I enjoyed it. I like how they did the werewolves in this film. For those of you that are squeamish about such things... I will warn there is a but of gore in this one. This one is definitely worth the time put in to watch it. Recommended.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 03, 2017, 08:23:55 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/19/191329005767f.jpg)      Get Out (2017/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Jordan Peele
Writing:Jordan Peele (Writer)
Length:104 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Daniel Kaluuya as Chris Washington
Allison Williams as Rose Armitage
Catherine Keener as Missy Armitage
Bradley Whitford as Dean Armitage
Caleb Landry Jones as Jeremy Armitage

Plot:
When Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a young African-American man, visits his white girlfriend's (Allison Williams) family estate, he becomes ensnared in the more sinister, real reason for the invitation. At first, Chris reads the family's overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter's interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he could have never imagined. This speculative thriller from Blumhouse (producers of The Visit, Insidious series and The Gift) and the mind of Jordan Peele (Key & Peele) is equal parts gripping thriller and provocative commentary.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one I found to be an enjoyable... although somewhat predictable show. It has an interesting concept... though I would say this one is just as much suspense/thriller as it is horror... maybe even a little more so.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 04, 2017, 12:42:01 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/796019815246f.jpg)

1408
Year of Release: 2007
Directed By: Mikael Håfström
Starring:  John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, Mary McCormack
Genre: Horror, Suspense/Thriller

Overview:
Based on a story by suspense master Stephen King, 1408 is a gripping "roller-coaster of a head trip" (Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly) that will have you on the edge of your seat. John Cusack delivers "a tour de force performance" (Stephen Farber, Hollywood Reporter) as a skeptical writer investigating paranormal events. When he insists on staying in the reportedly haunted room 1408 at the Dolphin Hotel against the grave warnings of the hotel manager (Samuel L. Jackson), he discovers the room's deadly secret – an evil so powerful, no one has ever survived an hour within its walls. In the tradition of King's The Shining and Misery, 1408 is "a psychologically thrilling movie that leaves you gasping in the end" (Desiree Belmarez, Denver Post).

My Thoughts:
Solid piece of haunted house horror.  Okay, haunted hotel, but you get the basic idea.  Very strong performances from John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson.  In fact, I really wish we'd gotten to see more of Jackson's hotel manager.  Olin's a cool character who seems really underused. 

This is Cusack's show, and his performance as cynic Mike Enslin carries it very well.  The film is as much psychological horror as supernatural, and the room preys upon Mike's own issues and problems to create greater horrors for him. 

My criticism would be that we never learn exactly what is going on with the room.  I think that's intentional, but I would have liked to know.  Reading about the various different endings after I watched the film, I am happy my blu-ray defaults to the original ending, which I feel works the best.  Recommended.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall:  4/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 04, 2017, 12:51:49 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/73/738329062422f.jpg)

The Haunted Castle (Schloß Vogelöd)
Year of Release: 1921
Directed By: F. W. Murnau
Starring:  Arnold Korff, Lulu Kyser-Korff, Lothar Mehnert, Paul Hartmann, Paul Bildt, Olga Tschechowa
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Horror, Drama

Overview:
Before plumbing the depths of horror and despair with such films as Faust and The Last Laugh, Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau tested the waters with this moody drama of a storm-bound manor and the grim mystery that lurks within. A hunting party is interrupted by the arrival of a notorious Count (Lothar Mehnert), who is believed to have murdered his brother. The uninvited guest sets in motion an elaborate plot to resurrect the ghosts of the past and bring to light the dark secret that lies at the center of his brother's death.

The foreboding atmosphere and psychological complexity inspired Murnau to delve deeper into the horror genre, which he did the following year, with the immortal vampire tale Nosferatu (1922).

My Thoughts:
I think I would have enjoyed this more if I hadn't been expecting it to be a horror film.  If you're expecting something like Murnau's Nosferatu, or Wiene's Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, lose those expectations.  The only creepy part is a dream sequence.  The rest of the film is basically a chamber drama.  The only thing haunting this castle is the secret of what happened to Count Oesch's brother and who is to blame.  The film does have great lighting, and the rain-drenched manor setting could make for a good horror film.  Alas, this is not as advertised.

If you're looking for a horror film, I can't recommend this.  If you're a fan of silent drama, this might be worth a look.  I believe I'll go back to it later at some juncture, knowing what I'm going to be watching, and likely enjoy it more.

Bechdel Test: Uncertain – the hostess and the Countess share a scene without the men, but it has no intertitles.

Overall:  2.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 04, 2017, 12:58:11 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/VV/VVE2O3HCU24N8AC01f.jpg)

Dracula
Year of Release: 1931
Directed By: Tod Browning
Starring:  Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners, Dwight Frye, Edward Van Sloan
Genre: Horror

Overview:
The original Dracula is one of the silver screen's most unforgettable characters and, along with the other Universal Classic Monsters, defined the Hollywood horror genre. Dracula: Complete Legacy Collection includes all 6 films from the original legacy including the frightening classic starring Bela Lugosi and the timeless films that followed. These landmark motion pictures defined the iconic look of the famed vampire and continue to inspire countless remakes and adaptations that strengthen the legend of Dracula to this day.

My Thoughts:
A true horror classic.  Dracula, more than any other film, defined what it means to be a vampire.  The suave, cultured, elegant, old-world romantic.  The deadly menace of velvet words.  The bloodlust and control.  Lugosi has such a chilling yet charismatic presence here.  His performance is iconic, and rightfully so.  Edward Van Sloan makes a worthy Van Helsing, even if the runtime means we don't get to see as much of him as I would like.  I am not impressed with David Manners's bland Harker, but Dwight Frye's Renfield is quite maniacal.  Browning has a beautiful way with atmosphere.  The film feels cold and threatening.  The shadows are deep, the fog is thick, and wolves howl in the night.

My only complaint, and it's what keeps me from rating the film higher, is that they rush the ending.  It seems no sooner does Van Helsing know what Dracula is, then they are able to defeat him.  For all the atmosphere and buildup Browning does, and for Lugosi's performance, it should be harder for the heroes to win.

Nonetheless, this is my second watch of this film and I've enjoyed it more this time than the last.  An absolute must-see, especially for any horror fan.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall:  4/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 04, 2017, 01:04:27 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/73/738329161828f.jpg)

The Premature Burial
Year of Release: 1962
Directed By: Roger Corman
Starring: Ray Milland, Hazel Court, Richard Ney, Heather Angel
Genre: Horror, Suspense/Thriller, Drama

Overview:
Edgar Allan Poe's Chilling Tale of a Fate Too Horrifying to consider! The classic style of literature's most bizarre author, Edgar Allan Poe (The Oblong Box), comes to life in this ghoulish tale of murder and suspense starring acting great Ray Milland (X: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes) as Guy Carrell, a medical student and painter whose obsessive fear of being buried alive compels him to build himself a tomb with a view, equipped with everything he can think of to escape death. But it's when his long-suffering wife Kate (Heather Angel, The Informer), convinces him to destroy the tomb... he finds himself in the gravest of danger, trapped in a web of doom so devious and intricate that there's no escape. Produced and directed by the iconic Roger Corman (The Secret Invasion) and beautifully shot in widescreen by the legendary cinematographer Floyd Crosby (Tales of Terror). The top-notch supporting cast includes Hazel Court (The Masque of Red Death), Alan Napier (TV's Batman) and Dick Miller (Gremlins).

My Thoughts:
This is Roger Corman and Edgar Allan Poe, so you're also expecting Vincent Price.  There is no Price, but instead we get Ray Milland, who is very effective in his role as the paranoid lord with a great fear of being buried alive.  We also get lovely and talented Hazel Court. 

It seems someone may be trying to drive Lord Guy insane.  Is it the loving wife?  The devoted sister?  The doctor father-in-law?  Has every bit of the atmosphere and setting of Corman's other Poe pictures, and a really solid last act.  Recommended if you're a fan 60's horror - you won't be disappointed.

Bechdel Test: Pass, barely

Overall:  3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 04, 2017, 01:10:33 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/IA/IA96F5A0A818A63D3f.jpg)

Tales From the Crypt
Year of Release: 1972
Directed By: Freddie Francis
Starring: Sir Ralph Richardson, Joan Collins, Ian Henry, Peter Cushing, Robin Phillips, Richard Greene, Nigel Patrick, Patrick Magee
Genre: Horror, Suspense/Thriller

Overview:
When five unwary travelers with dark hearts stumble into a series of catacombs, they find themselves in a cavern with no way out. But the horror's only just begun as a mysterious figure appears to reveal to each person the shocking events that will lead to their will-deserved, untimely – and unavoidable – demise. Starring Joan Collins (Empire Of The Ants), Peter Cushing (Horror Of Dracula), Patrick Magee (A Clockwork Orange) and Sir Ralph Richardson (Rollerball), and directed by Freddie Francis (The Creeping Flesh), Tales From The Crypt is the original, gets-right-under-your-skin creepfest!

My Thoughts:
This is a pretty good anthology film, though like most anthology films the stories vary in quality.  The framing story involves a group of tourists who have wandered off from their tour group and end up trapped together with a monk who slowly reveals each of their sins.

"All Through the House" is about a woman who kills her husband for money.  She tries to clean up the crime scene and stage the death as an accident, instead of arranging for blame to fall on an escaped maniac.  The maniac might be closer than she thinks however...  Decent story, stars Joan Collins, and has some tension too it once the maniac shows up.  He's also really creepy, so that's a plus for a horror film.  3.5/5

"Reflection of Death" features a man leaving his wife and child to run away with his lover, only to fall victim to a car crash.  He emerges from the crash, but everyone cringes in fear from him.  Does give you the question of what he looks like, what has happened to him, and why people are so scared.  The ending is a bit surprising.  3/5

"Poetic Justice" is about a rich snob and his father who terrorize a poor man of good heart whom they wish to leave their neighborhood.  Features the great Peter Cushing as the unfortunate Grimsdyke.  A very cruel story, but has the best performance and the most fitting ending.  4/5

"Wish You Were Here" is a cheap knockoff of "The Monkey's Paw," about a sleazy businessman who goes bankrupt.  His wife uses a statue they acquired in Hong Kong to enact 3 wishes, which of course backfires.  It ends in a terrible plot hole.  This is the clunker of the bunch.  2/5

"Blind Alleys" finishes the film, and is about a hardnosed, miserly ex-military man who takes over running a home for the blind.  He treats the residents cruelly while he lives in comfort, eventually causing the death of one man.  The blind men then enact their revenge upon him.  This one starts slow but ends strong.  Nigel Patrick does a good job as the ex-soldier.  The second best of the lot.  3.5/5

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall:  3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 04, 2017, 01:15:17 AM
What can I say, it's a slow, slow night here at work and I might as well use the computer here to post reviews.  :)

Count:
Pete: 6
Danae: 5
Total: 11
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 05, 2017, 06:20:02 PM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BOTE0NWEyNDYtYWI5MC00MWY0LTg1NDctZjAwMjkyMWJiNzk1XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNjk5NDA3OTk@._V1_UX182_CR0,0,182,268_AL_.jpg)

First let me say I never read the book to compare. I have seen the miniseries on many occasions. I loved the miniseries and I loved this film. I thought all the child actors did a wonderful job. The atmosphere was done well... and I left not being able to wait to see the next film! I feel like I can watch this film again already! IMHO it is a must see... a must addition to any horror fan's collection.

Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 07, 2017, 04:53:09 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396056299f.jpg)      Fright Night (1985/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089175/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fright_Night) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ISgM9sjza8) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:Tom Holland (1943)
Writing:Tom Holland (1943) (Writer)
Length:106 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai

Stars:
Chris Sarandon as Jerry Dandrige
William Ragsdale as Charley Brewster
Amanda Bearse as Amy Peterson
Roddy McDowall as Peter Vincent
Stephen Geoffreys as Evil Ed

Plot:
Meet Jerry Dandridge. He's sweet, sexy, and he likes to sleep in late. You might think he's the perfect neighbor. But before inviting Jerry in for a nightcap, there's just one thing you should know. Jerry prefers his drinks warm, red — and straight from the jugular! It's FRIGHT NIGHT, a horrific howl starring Chris Sarandon as the seductive vampire and William Ragsdale as the frantic teenager struggling to keep Jerry's deadly fangs out of his neck. Only 17-year-old Charley Brewster (Ragsdale) knows Jerry's bloodcurdling secret. When Charley can't get anybody to believe him, he turns to TV horror host Peter Vincent (Roddy McDowall), who used to be the "Great Vampire Killer" of the movies. Can these mortals save Charley and his sweetheart Amy (Amanda Bearse) from the wrathful bloodsucker's toothy embrace? If you love being scared, FRIGHT NIGHT will give you the nightmare of your life!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I had to watch this one... it is one of my favorite vampire movies. No it is not the scariest Vampire movie out there... but for some reason I think it is a lot of fun... and I never tire of it. Of course the fact that Roddy McDowall is in it is a help. Also Amanda Bearse (the neighbor in Married... With Children) is in it as well... looking rather young which is surprising since the movie is only 2 years older then the series is. I think Chris Sarandon did a good job at bringing the classic idea of the vampire to this movie. but at the same time thought Stephen Geoffreys (Evil Ed) did a great job for a fun vampire that gave us a few laughs. I must admit though... I have always been disappointed in Amanda Bearse's look as a vampire... first I didn't care for her with that long red wig on... then I despised the look of the "Monster" version of her Vampire. Oh well... the way I see it is if that is all I have to complain about... then so what... I will enjoy this movie for years to come.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 08, 2017, 05:04:50 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/032429211569f.jpg)      Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse (2015/United States)

Paramount Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Christopher Landon
Writing:Carrie Evans (Screenwriter), Emi Mochizuki (Screenwriter), Christopher Landon (Screenwriter), Carrie Evans (Story By), Emi Mochizuki (Story By), Lona Williams (Story By)
Length:92 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Portuguese, Spanish

Stars:
Ty Sheridan as Ben Goudy
Logan Miller as Carter Grant
Joey Morgan as Augie Foster
Sarah Dumont as Denise Russo
David Koechner as Scout Leader Rogers

Plot:
Three scouts and lifelong friends join forces with one badass cocktail waitress to become the world's most unlikely team of heroes. When their peaceful town is ravaged by a zombie invasion, they'll fight for the badge of a lifetime and put their scouting skills to a test to save mankind from the undead. "Wickedly funny and endlessly entertaining."* Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse is "wall-to-wall laughs, thrills, and chills."**

*Heather Wixson, DAILY DEAD
**Steve Barton, DREAD CENTRAL

Extras:


My Thoughts:

What do I say about this one? Mostly unfunny comedy... though there is a few good jokes here and there. Some of it works some of it doesn't. The same goes for the zombie effects and action. It is one that kept my attention enough to get through it. But is no more then an average horror comedy.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 09, 2017, 02:06:12 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929527571f.jpg)      Stephen King's It (1990/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099864/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/It_(miniseries)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72l9HjPoYOw) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Tommy Lee Wallace
Writing:Stephen King (1947) (Original Material By), Lawrence D. Cohen (Screenwriter), Tommy Lee Wallace (Screenwriter)
Length:187 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, German: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Italian: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Czech: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, Thai

Stars:
Harry Anderson (1952) as Richard "Richie" Tozier
Dennis Christopher as Edward "Eddie" Kaspbrak
Richard Masur as Stanley "Stan" Uris
Annette O'Toole as Beverly "Bev" Marsh
Tim Reid as Michael "Mike" Hanlon

Plot:
October, 1957. "It" awakens and the small town of Derry, Maine will never be the same, Stephen King brings to life every childhood fear and phobia as seven children face an unthinkable horror which appears in various forms, including "Pennywise" (Tim Curry) – a clown who lives, hunts and kills from the town's sewers. Years later, the surviving adults who are brave enough return to stop the new killing spree, this time for good.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is one of the King miniseries I like a lot... but for some reason seldomly watch. I guess it has something to do with the length of miniseries. This one is loaded with big names and is a story that easily keeps your attention. I am not a big reader so I can't compare the miniseries to the book... but it is one of my favorites of his miniseries.

Comparing it to the new film... there is a lot I actually think they done better in the theatrical film. At the same time there is things I like how they handled here as well. I am familiar with (and fan of) a lot of the cast members in the miniseries. I also liked how this one handled the story in flash backs. Though I am glad the new film did not do this. Over-all I really enjoyed both versions a lot and I can't wait for the next film to get released... will be a must see at the theater as well.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 09, 2017, 04:47:24 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/014381781250f.jpg)      Idle Hands (1999/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Image Entertainment (United States)
Director:Rodman Flender
Writing:Terri Hughes (Writer), Ron Milbauer (Writer)
Length:92 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:English

Stars:
Devon Sawa as Anton
Seth Green as Mick
Elden Henson as Pnub
Jessica Alba as Molly
Christopher Hart as The Hand

Plot:
Anton Tobias (Devon Sawa, Wild America) is a channel-surfing, junk-food munching, couch potato burn-out who can't control the murderous impulses of his recently possessed hand. With the help of his zombiefied buddies, Mick (Seth Green, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me) and Pnub (Elden Henson, The Mighty), Anton's got to stop the rampaging devil appendage before it takes total control of his life and ruins any chance he has with class hottie Molly (Jessica Alba, Never Been Kissed). Vivica A. Fox (Independence Day) and Jack Noseworthy (The Brady Bunch Movie) co-star in this wickedly funny horror comedy.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I found this one to be a fun little comedy horror. The big plus for me has to be the fact that it is an early role for the lovely Jessica Alba. I never been a fan of the whole stoner thing so that took away from it a little for me. But I definitely found it to be worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 09, 2017, 07:43:04 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396392045f.jpg)      Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (2010/United States)
Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_Be_Afraid_of_the_Dark_(2010_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1270761/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DNqpUH4tpw) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Troy Nixey
Writing:Nigel McKeand (Original Material By), Guillermo Del Toro (Screenwriter), Matthew Robbins (Screenwriter)
Length:100 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Bruce Gleeson as Buggy Driver
Edwina Ritchard as Housekeeper
Garry McDonald as Blackwood
Bailee Madison as Sally
Carolyn Shakespeare-Allen as Airport Cart Driver

Plot:
While architect Alex Hurts (Guy Pearce) and his new girlfriend Kim (Katie Holmes) restore their Gothic mansion's period interiors, Alex's young daughter Sally (Bailee Madison) can investigate the dark corners of the estate. She begins hearing raspy whispers coming from the basement and her curiosity gets the better of her. She finally opens the door to an army of beady-eyed, sharp-clawed monsters. The horror is real and she and her family are in peril. She tries to warn everyone... but no one is listening.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Over-all I would say this one is a fairly average spook-fest. It is a decent story that could have used some polishing, as while I found it interesting enough to watch my attention was drifting on certain scenes. I also felt that most the characters wasn't very likable... though I did like the kid. It is a decent way to waste some time... but there is better out there.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 09, 2017, 09:23:48 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391748823f.jpg)      The Exorcist III (1990/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:William Peter Blatty
Writing:William Peter Blatty (Original Material By), William Peter Blatty (Screenwriter)
Length:110 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:

Stars:
George C. Scott as Kinderman
Ed Flanders as Father Dyer
Brad Dourif as The Gemini Killer
Jason Miller (1939) as Patient X
Nicol Williamson as Father Morning

Plot:
A woman crawls by unnoticed — on the ceiling like a fly. A long-dead killer claims victim after victim. Flames erupt, snakes slither, the ground opens and reveals a writhing pit of the damned. The evil is back.

Also back is the creative force whose novel and Oscar® -winning screenplay shaped the trailblazing The Exorcist. Adapting his novel Legion, William Peter Blatty writes and directs The Exorcist III, a jolting foray into terror that begins where the first film ended. George C. Scott plays police Lt. Kinderman, investigating mysterious murders. Kinderman doesn't believe in demons and possession. Not yet. Jason Miller reprises his priestly role from the original. And look for Samuel L. Jackson, pro basketball's Patrick Ewing and more bit-role surprises.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one is a good sequel... basically takes over where "The Exorcist" left off. This movie has a scene that I always found to be a bit on the creepy side... the scene where the little old lady crawls around the ceiling with that crazed look on her face. But not all the scenes that were meant to be creepy worked for me. One scene in particular that I can think of that just didn't work for me was the headless statue following behind the nurse with arms stretched out as if to catch her. But over-all the sequel worked well for me. Though is not one I find myself recommending to others much... as it seems this one is not to everyone's taste.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 10, 2017, 12:02:32 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398114819f.jpg)      Offspring (2009/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Lionsgate (United States)
Director:Andrew Van Den Houten
Writing:
Length:79 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Jessica Butler as Eartheater
Kelly Carey as Loreen Kaltsas
Holter Graham as Vic Manetti
T. J. Graye as Gloria
Stephen Grey as First Stolen

Plot:
They Hunt in Packs. They Feed on Flesh. They Prey on Innocence.
They are back with a vengeance and an insatiable appetite for human flesh. Their time has come again. Based on the acclaimed novel and adapted for the screen by best-selling author Jack Ketchum. Offspring follows the survivors of a brutal flesh-eating clan that has resurfaced in the once sleepy town of Dead River, Maine. The locals are in for a rude awakening when they realize it's the same pack that the sheriff thought he'd killed off a decade ago. Just when they thought the nightmare was over, they're about to discover that the fight for their lives has only just begun.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

While this one is a little on the weird side... I also found it to be interesting.What could happen to a group of people if they lived away from civilization for generations. Developing their own language... only having the most basic of hand tools... living very much like cavemen. Worth the time put in to watch it... though not sure how much rewatch value it has.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 10, 2017, 01:33:39 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/VV/VVE2O3HCU24N8AC01f.jpg)      Dracula (1931/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Tod Browning
Writing:Bram Stoker (Original Material By), Hamilton Deane (Original Material By), John L. Balderston (Original Material By), Garrett Fort (Original Material By)
Length:74 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: Mono, French: DTS: Mono, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish, Trivia

Stars:
Bela Lugosi as Count Dracula
Helen Chandler as Mina
David Manners as John Harker
Dwight Frye as Renfield
Edward Van Sloan as Van Helsing

Plot:
The legend of vampire Count Dracula begins here with this original 1931 Dracula film from Bela Lugosi.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a true horror classic and the first movie I ever watched with Bela Lugosi in it. This film is one of my favorite versions of Dracula. I think Bela Lugosi does an outstanding job in the iconic title role. Dwight Frye also did a great job as the crazed Reinfield. For me the only low part of this film has to be David Manners as Harker... I just found him to be so wooden and unappealing in the role. I would have also liked to seen this one to be a little longer. I found myself wanting more... but then I guess that is what the other films in the set are for.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 10, 2017, 03:13:34 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I1/I1EA3A02C0F316AC3f.jpg)      Dracula's Daughter (1936/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Lambert Hillyer
Writing:Garrett Fort (Screenwriter), John L. Balderston (Story By), Bram Stoker (Original Material By)
Length:71 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: Mono
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Otto Kruger as Jeffrey Garth
Gloria Holden as Countess Marya Zaleska
Marguerite Churchill as Janet
Edward Van Sloan as Professor Von Helsing
Gilbert Emery as Sir Basil Humphrey

Plot:
Countess Marya Zaleska seeks the help of a noted psychiatrist to free herself of her father's evil influence.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a good addition to the Dracula franchise. It is not as menacing as Dracula. But it does keep your attention with ease. Worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 10, 2017, 06:51:41 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I0/I030A9F5DB8058C06f.jpg)      13 Ghosts (1960/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0053559/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/13_Ghosts) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smki4Vupb9Q) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Mill Creek Entertainment, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:William Castle
Writing:Robb White (Writer)
Length:85 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: Mono
Subtitles:

Stars:
Charles Herbert as Buck Zorba
Jo Morrow as Medea Zorba
Martin Milner as Ben Rush
Rosemary De Camp as Hilda Zorba
Donald Woods as Cyrus Zorba

Plot:
When an eccentric uncle wills a huge, ramshackle house to his impoverished family, they get the shock of a lifetime. Their new residence comes complete with a spooky housekeeper, plus a fortune in buried treasure and 12 horrifying ghosts.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is one I find to be a little more on the silly side then actually frightening. But I believe that is what William Castle was going for. A silly, spooky story. Though obviously the spookiness does not hold up in today's day and age. But it still makes for an enjoyable viewing experience. I would say it is definitely worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 10, 2017, 09:26:12 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I9/I93E6F367CA03ACB4f.jpg)      Vampire Circus: The Hammer Horror Collection (1972/United Kingdom)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067924/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vampire_Circus) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjp6Tqu5ttI) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Synapse Films, ITV Global Entertainment, Carlton Film Distributors (United States)
Director:Robert Young
Writing:Judson Kinberg (Screenwriter)
Length:87 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.66:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Music Only: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:

Stars:
Bradforts-Amaros
Adrienne Corri as Gypsy Woman
Thorley Walters as Burgermeister
Anthony Higgins [Anthony Corlan] as Emil
John Moulder-Brown as Anton

Plot:
A little girl is brutally slain by a vampire in a tiny 19th century Austrian village. Seeking revenge, the townspeople invade the foreboding castle of Count Mitterhaus and kill him for the crime. As the Count dies, he curses the villagers and vows that their children will all die so that he may someday return to life. Fifteen years later, as the village is ravaged by the plague, a traveling circus comes to town and distracts the villagers from their current hardships. Little do they know that their troubles are only beginning! The circus is actually a troupe of shape-shifting vampires and, as the local children start disappearing, they realize the prophecy of the long dead Count is coming true. Synapse Films is proud to present VAMPIRE CIRCUS, now available for the first time on home video in glorious 1080p high-definition and loaded with amazing extras you can really sink your teeth into!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I never had much experience with Hammer films in the past. And what little experience I did have wasn't that great. But I think I was just unlucky enough to see the wrong ones as I found this film to be much better then the previous ones I have seen. The story was good and I liked how they did the vampires. This film has given me hope there is other Hammer films out there for me.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 11, 2017, 01:17:35 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398151425f.jpg)      Descendents (2008/Chile)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1361838/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Descendents_(2008_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJzpGHj5j1U) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Lionsgate Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Jorge Olguin
Writing:Carolina Garcia (Writer), Jorge Olguin (Writer)
Length:74 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Camille Lynch as Camille
Karina Pizarro as Camille's Mom
Carolina Andrade as 4 Year Old Girl
Cristobal Barra as 6 Year Old Boy
Rosa Luz Ramos as Wounded Woman

Plot:
In an unknown future, the earth has been destroyed by man and the air is polluted with a mysterious virus that turns humans into zombies, and only a few children are immune to the disease. Young Camille wanders through these desolate wastelands, protecting herself from zombies and armed military forces that roam the land killing anyone in sight. As she makes her escape, she will do whatever it takes to survive and be among other Descendents.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one disappointed me a little. While it has a good premise the follow through just wasn't there. It has a couple good scenes. But for the most part I found myself easily distracted. The film has a slow pace... which isn't necessarily a bad thing but it has to have a good story to back it up. Unfortunately this one did not do it for me. The film is only an hour and 14 minutes... and I found myself watching the clock on it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 11, 2017, 03:34:07 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/82/826663141726f.jpg)      The Fog: Collector's Edition (1980/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080749/) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bURJ11ZYixc) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, Shout! Factory (United States)
Director:John Carpenter (1948)
Writing:John Carpenter (1948) (Writer), Debra Hill (Writer)
Length:90 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English

Stars:
Adrienne Barbeau as Stevie Wayne
Jamie Lee Curtis as Elizabeth Solley
Janet Leigh as Kathy Williams
John Houseman as Mr. Machen
Tom Atkins as Nick Castle

Plot:
When the fog rolls in...the terror begins! This moody horror classic from master of terror John Carpenter (The Thing) and producer Debra Hill (Escape From New York) stars Adrienne Barbeau (Swamp Thing), Jamie Lee Curtis (Halloween), Tom Atkins (Halloween III: Season Of The Witch), Hal Holbrook (Creepshow) and Janet Leigh (Psycho). Don't get lost in the fog...

The sleepy seaside village of Antonio Bay is about to learn the true meaning of the word "vengeance." This seemingly perfect town masks a guilty secret...a past steeped in greed and murder. Exactly 100 years ago, a ship was horribly wrecked under mysterious circumstances in a thick, eerie fog. Now, shrouded in darkness, the long-dead mariners have returned from their watery grave to exact a bloody revenge.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one here is one of my favorite classic '80s horror. Loved the cast... loved the story line. This film is definitely worth the time put in to watch it. If you never seen this one... I highly recommend it. Just be sure you get the 1980 original... and not the remake or you will be disappointed. This is one case that not only is the original better.... it is MUCH better.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 06:34:37 PM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BOTE0NWEyNDYtYWI5MC00MWY0LTg1NDctZjAwMjkyMWJiNzk1XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNjk5NDA3OTk@._V1_UX182_CR0,0,182,268_AL_.jpg)

It
Year of Release: 2017
Directed By: Andy Muschietti
Starring: Jaeden Lieberher, Bill Skarsgård, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Sophia Lillis, Finn Wolfhard, Jack Dylan Grazer
Genre: Horror

Overview:
In a small town in Maine, seven children known as The Losers Club come face to face with life problems, bullies and a monster that takes the shape of a clown called Pennywise.

My Thoughts:
I was really glad to see that all the good reviews I'd been hearing weren't inaccurate.  This was really good.  The atmosphere permeates the film.  This is a town living in dread.  Even in the quiet moments, the moments where our heroes get to just be kids and be friends, still has the feeling lurking in the background.  The inescapable reality that children are vanishing and something/someone is taking them.  The knowledge that it could be any one of them.

I was really impressed by all the performances by the kids.  All of them created unique characters who were likable and believable.  I was really impressed by how the filmmakers handled telling the viewer about their home life.  Yes, you spent more time with some of them than others, but you got a sense about each of them from little scenes and moments.  Interactions between the kid and their parent told you everything you needed to know about the relationship between them. 

Bill Skarsgård's performance as Pennywise is also memorable.  I haven't seen the original film, so I'm not comparing him to Tim Curry.  Who knows how I'll feel once I have seen that interpretation.  (I have read the book, though it was a long time ago.)

Overall, well recommended.  Good pacing, good mix of action, jump scares and creepy atmosphere.  Great performances.  Any fan of horror should enjoy this.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 4/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 06:43:01 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/037429137321f.jpg)

The Most Dangerous Game
Year of Release: 1932
Directed By: Ernest B. Schoedsack, Irving Pichel
Starring: Joel McCrea, Fay Wray, Robert Armstrong, Leslie Banks
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Horror

Overview:
"One of the best and most literate movies from the great days of horror," The Most Dangerous Game stars Leslie Banks as a big game hunter with a taste for the world's most exotic prey—his houseguests, played by Fay Wray and Joel McCrea. Before making history with 1933's King Kong, filmmakers Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack wowed audiences with their chilling adaptation of this Richard Connell short story. Criterion is proud to present the DVD premiere of The Most Dangerous Game in a new digital transfer.

My Thoughts:

The OG of human-hunting films.  Short and pretty fast paced.  Really doesn't waste any time getting you into the action.  Leslie Banks plays Zaroff suitably suave and creepy, and Joel McCrea's Rainsford is exactly what you'd expect in a pulp hero of the time.  Fay Wray's Eve is a wimpy character, but at least her screams are sometimes useful. 

What impressed me most was the production design.  If this was filmed in studio (as it likely was), they went all out in designing the jungle for the hunt.  It was really well done and for a film of its age, really believable.  Overall, very solid adventure-horror, recommended.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 06:49:31 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616868428f.jpg)

I Bury the Living
Year of Release: 1957
Directed By: Albert Band
Starring: Richard Boone, Theodore Bikel, Peggy Maurer, Howard Smith
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Edgar Allan Poe would have truly appreciated this "crisp little chiller" (Leonard Martin) howlingly haunted with "dire happenings and eerie effects bound to please the spook set" (The Film Daily). Starring rugged Hollywood leading man Richard Boone (TV's "Have Gun Will Travel") and folk singer Theodore Bikel as a dynamic duo of death, his electrifying shocker may send you to an early grave — if it's not already occupied.

When a cemetary director (Boone) puts pins on a map of empty graves, the grave owners mysteriously die, driving the director crazy and the real estate pries sky-high. But there is something more devilishly demented behind the deaths — and digging for answers uncovers a most horrifying climax.

My Thoughts:
Slow to start, but builds into a nice piece of psychological horror as our hero slowly goes mad with the idea that he can bring about death by simply applying black pins to the map.  The map comes to take on this symbolic quality, a focus of malevolence in his life.  Richard Boone is very effective in his role as the poor man.  I do wish they had taken the premise to a more supernatural conclusion.  The mundane ending spoils the wonderful occult buildup.

Despite my dislike of the ending, I would still recommended the film for fans of old school horror.  Do you like William Castle's films or Roger Corman's Poe/Price films?  If so, you should enjoy this.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3.25/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:05:35 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/VV/VV2NIP048U8IMI201f.jpg)

The Ghost Ship
Year of Release: 1943
Directed By: Mark Robson
Starring: Richard Dix, Russell Wade, Edith Barett, Ben Bard, Edmund Glover
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Drama, Horror

Overview:
There's danger dead ahead when director Mark Robson (Bedlam) helms The Ghost Ship. Richard Dix (Cimarron, The Whistler series) plays the sinister captain whose port of call may be madness. All aboard!

My Thoughts:
Decent psychological thriller/drama with some elements of horror, but not truly a horror film.  Richard Dix does a good job as the tormented and ultimately mad captain.  Russell Wade and Edmund Glover are equally competent in their roles.  Glover's Sparks is actually the most memorable character in the film.  The film moves quickly, and has a good, tense atmosphere, especially after Merriam is brought back on board. 

I don't know that I'd recommend this for horror fans, because as I said, this isn't a horror film, but I would recommend it to someone who enjoyed any short thriller style films from the 40's.  It's darker than most of those, but rather well done.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:09:34 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/73/738329085827f.jpg)

The Nude Vampire  (La Vampire nue)
Year of Release: 1970
Directed By: Jean Rollin
Starring: Christine François, Olivier Martin, Maurice Lemaitre, Caroline Cartier
Genre: Horror, Fantasy

Overview:
Wealthy industrialist Georges Radamante (Maurice Lemaître) has dreams of immortality. Not through his own achievements, but by finding a way to share the biochemistry of the mute, orphaned vampire woman (Caroline Cartier) who has been raised by hooded needle-stickers in isolation, deprived of exposure to human faces. Radamante's son Pierre (Olivier Martin, Rollin's real-life brother) innocently complicates matters while trying to infiltrate his father's private club. It is love at first sight and Pierre determines to liberate his beloved, a goal which attracts the companionship of other vampires, who plan a torch-carrying siege of Radamante's palatial compound.

Rollin's first color film and his first collaboration with director of photography Jean-Jacques Renon, THE NUDE VAMPIRE (La Vampire nue) is a curiously science fiction-tinged story in the then-fashionable style of Jean-Claude Forrest (Barbarella) and Metal hurlant artists Jean "Moebius" Giraud and Philippe Druillet, who was in fact recruited to design the film's poster.

My Thoughts:
Another beautiful film from Rollin.  Like many of his films, there is a dream-like quality here.  Soft focus, rich color palette, romance, eroticism, all of Rollin's trademarks are here.  If you're a fan, like I am, this is a film you'll enjoy.  Compares favorably to some of my favorites of his (Lips of Blood for example). 

Rollin is an acquired taste.  His films are very symbolic and very visual.  He isn't interested in character so much and plots are very bare bones.  There often isn't very much dialog.  Rollin definitely prefers to show rather than tell.  His films are all about atmosphere, this gorgeous, erotic, gothic feel that he creates.  There's also generally quite a bit of nudity.  If that sounds like something you'd enjoy, then I'd recommend it.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:13:27 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929064410f.jpg)

Creepshow
Year of Release: 1982
Directed By: George A. Romero
Starring: Hal Holbrook, Adrienne Barbeau, Fritz Weaver, Leslie Nielsen, Carrie Nye, E. G. Marshall
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Macabre masters Stephen King and George A. Romero conjure up five shocking yarns, each a virtuoso exercise in the ghouls-and-gags style of classic '50s horror comics. A murdered man emerges from the grave for Father's Day cake. A meteor's ooze makes everything...grow. A professor selects his wife as a snack for a crated creature. A scheming husband plants two lovers up to their necks in terror. A malevolent millionaire with an insect phobia becomes the prey of a cockroach army. Add the spirited performances of a fine cast (Hal Holbrook, Adrienne Barbeau, Leslie Nielsen, Ted Danson, E.G. Marshall and King himself) and the ghoulish makeup wizardry of Tom Savini. Let the Creepshow begin!

My Thoughts:
Fun anthology horror film, with the framing device of the horror comic worked in with image framing techniques at the end of each story.  Like most anthologies, the stories vary in quality.

"Father's Day" opens the show, featuring a woman visiting the grave of the abusive father she killed.  He's a terrible person, and you have a lot of sympathy for her.  It turns pretty horrific, and you're left with the idea that evil never really dies.  A good metaphor for the lasting effects of abuse.  3/5

"The Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill" is up next, and has a Lovecraftian feel to it, the story of an idiot who can't leave things the hell alone (namely a meteor).  Stephen King plays Verrill, and he seems to be having a great time doing it.  3/5

"Tide You Over" is a story of revenge and counter-revenge, as a man kills his wife and her lover, only to pay for it in a very karmic way.  Stars Leslie Nielsen, of all people, as a calculating, evil SOB, and he's rather good at it.  The best of the bunch.  4/5

"The Crate" follows a meek little fellow, his overbearing and crass wife, and the murderous beast found at the college where he works.  The bloodiest of the lot, features solid performances all around.  You really sympathize with Hal Holbrook's character, and Adrienne Barbeau is very convincing as his harridan of a wife.  Has a nice horror ending too.  3.75/5

"They're Creeping Up On You" is the last one.  E.G. Marshall is very nasty as the ruthless buisnessman.  Nice karmic justice in how he goes, but I do wish it had ended just a bit sooner than it did.  The last shots are unneccesary.  3/5

The wrapping story is decent, and ends appropriately.  Makes a good watch for any fan of horror, especially anthology style films.  Not my favorite of those style, but still rather good.

Bechdel Test: Pass (barely)

Overall: 3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:16:20 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396461659f.jpg)

Christine
Year of Release: 1983
Directed By: John Carpenter
Starring: Keith Gordon, John Stockwell, Alexandra Paul, Robert Prosky
Genre: Horror

Overview:
John Carpenter brings Stephen King's best-selling novel to life in the chilling thriller.

She was born in Detroit... on an automobile assembly line. But she is no ordinary automobile. She is CHRISTINE – a red and white 1958 Plymouth Fury whose unique standard equipment includes an evil, indestructible vengeance that will destroy anyone in her way. She seduces 17-year old Arnie Cunningham (Keith Gordon), who becomes consumed with passion for her sleek, rounded chrome-laden body. She demands his complete and unquestioned devotion and when outsiders seek to interfere, they become the victims of Christine's horrifying wrath.

My Thoughts:
Decent adaptation of the Stephen King book of the same name.  Changes some things, but hews pretty well to the themes.  Very typical Stephen King story of teens, outcasts and bullies, the prettiest girl in school, the transition of child to adult.  King does these sorts of stories well. 

Of course, you're watching this primarily for the killer car, and she doesn't disappoint.  She's gorgeous and murderous from the start.  The scene where she's on fire is very memorable.  Recommended.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:23:21 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929527571f.jpg)

It
Year of Release: 1990
Directed By: Tommy Lee Wallace
Starring: Harry Anderson, Dennis Christopher, Annette O'Toole, Tim Reid, John Ritter, Richard Thomas
Genre: Horror

Overview:
October, 1957. "It" awakens and the small town of Derry, Maine will never be the same, Stephen King brings to life every childhood fear and phobia as seven children face an unthinkable horror which appears in various forms, including "Pennywise" (Tim Curry) – a clown who lives, hunts and kills from the town's sewers. Years later, the surviving adults who are brave enough return to stop the new killing spree, this time for good.

My Thoughts:
Different take on the story than the 2017 film takes, and still takes liberties from the book.  On the one hand, it seems unreasonable to compare the two films, since they are different takes on the story, but on the other hand one almost can't help it.  Especially seeing the two films so close together.

There is a lot to like here - the kids act more like kids, there's greater inclusion of Beverly here (the boys seeing her as a friend rather than a girl and she has a skill that is key to defeating It).  and there's the bittersweet nostalgic atmosphere that King's works have.  The indifference of the town comes through quite well.  Tim Curry's performance is suitably creepy.

Still, I think the newer film is scarier, and it's atmosphere of palpable dread is more suited to the story than the indifferent one of this film.  I don't want to overall say that I prefer the new adaptation, since the second part hasn't come out yet, but as of right now I do.

This is still worth watching, and I'd show this to a younger viewer for a first time watch over the newer film.  But I think I'll sooner rewatch the 2017 than this one.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3.75/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:27:09 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/68/687797936660f.jpg)

It
Year of Release: 1967
Directed By: Terence Fisher
Starring: Peter Cushing, Susan Denberg, Thorley Walters, Robert Morris
Genre: Horror

Overview:
A tormented girl (Susan Denberg) drowns herself after her lover is framed for her father's murder and guillotined. Baron Frankenstein (Peter Cushing), experimenting with the transfer of souls, places her lover's soul into her body, bringing Christina back to life. Despite having no memory of her past life, she is driven by revenge and carries out a violent retribution on those responsible for both deaths.

My Thoughts:
The fourth in Hammer's Frankenstein series sees the Baron lodging with a village doctor and conducting experiments in trapping the soul and placing it in another body.  Cushing's Baron is a man of science devoted to his craft, but (at least here) he's not the villain.  The villains are instead a set of three dandies who bully the scarred daughter of the local innkeeper. 

They are virtual caracatures of evil and we have no trouble rooting for their deaths.  Our sympathy goes to Christina and Hans, the doomed lovers, and their actors do a decent job with their characters.  Still, Cushing is the star here, and he carries all the focus for the scenes he's in.  His Baron Frankenstein manages to be both charming and cold. 

This is a Hammer film, so it has that style to it.  Recommended for anyone who enjoys films of this sort (such as Corman's Poe/Price films).

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:55:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883476150451f.jpg)

Extraordinary Tales
Year of Release: 2013
Directed By: Raúl Garcia
Starring: Christopher Lee, Bela Lugosi, Julian Sands, Guillermo del Toro, Roger Corman
Genre: Horror, Suspense/Thriller, Animation

Overview:
Five of Edgar Allan Poe's best-known stories are brought to vivid life in this heart-pounding animated anthology featuring Sir Christopher Lee, Bela Lugosi, Julian Sands, Roger Corman and Guillermo del Toro. Murderous madmen, sinister villains and cloaked ghouls stalk the darkened corridors of Poe's imagination, as his haunting tales are given a terrifying new twist by some of the most beloved figures in horror film history.

My Thoughts:
An animated anthology film, this feels very much like a tribute to Poe featuring readings of his stories from such folks as Christopher Lee, Bela Lugosi, Guillermo del Toro, Julian Sands.  With stories from Poe and such luminaries reading them, this sounds like it should be a winner.  I really wish it was.  I wanted to like this film a lot more than I did.

Ultimately I think it's done in by budget.  The animation all feels jerky, the movement awkward.  Honestly, it seems cheap.  The art is often better than the animation of it.  Character designs in "The Masque of the Red Death" section are beautiful (especially Death).  Yet all of the background looks static.  The art for "The Facts in the Case of M. Valdemar" reminds me strongly of certain comic book styles - and is animated about as well as a motion comic too.  Others like "The Pit and the Pendulum," "The Fall of the House of Usher," and the framing story all look like earlier CGI than this is.  The animation would have been impressive ten years earlier.

Still, as a fan of Poe, I can't say that I didn't enjoy the film at all.  I do think other fans would garner some enjoyment from it.  I just wish the animation was more fully realized.

Bechdel Test: Fail

Overall: 2.75/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 11, 2017, 07:59:01 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I0/I030A9F5DB8058C06f.jpg)

13 Ghosts
Year of Release: 1960
Directed By: William Castle
Starring: Charles Herbert, Jo Morrow, Martin Milner, Rosemary De Camp, Donald Woods, Margaret Hamilton
Genre: Horror

Overview:
When an eccentric uncle wills a huge, ramshackle house to his impoverished family, they get the shock of a lifetime. Their new residence comes complete with a spooky housekeeper, plus a fortune in buried treasure and 12 horrifying ghosts.

My Thoughts:
Ahh, William Castle and his gimmicks.  This is a fun, silly, almost campy story.  It's about a typically wholesome 50's family (mother, father, 2 children) who inherit a haunted house.  Is the house haunted?    If so, can it get un-haunted? 

Not much to say for the performances, they're all about average, as is the production.  I do like the design of the ghost viewer glasses, they're so wonderfully clunky.  One of the earliest films to feature a Ouija board!

This isn't a scary film, but it would be fun to watch with the whole family.  There's nothing objectionable here.  I do wish our blu-ray came with the Ilusion-O viewers so we could have Castle's gimmick.  A blast if you like Castle, or enjoy 50's/60's low budget films.

Bechdel Test: Fail (I think)

Overall: 3/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 11, 2017, 09:34:55 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192287534f.jpg)      The Visit (2015/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3567288/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Visit_(2015_American_film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Fv3gU-ed7Y) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Studios Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:M. Night Shyamalan
Writing:M. Night Shyamalan (Writer)
Length:94 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Olivia DeJonge as Becca
Ed Oxenbould as Tyler
Deanna Dunagan as Nana
Peter McRobbie as Pop Pop
Kathryn Hahn as Mom

Plot:
When Becca and Tyler are sent to their grandparents' secluded Pennsylvania farm for a weeklong stay, they quickly discover something is not right with the elderly couple. Faced with strange rules and increasingly frightening behavior, the children soon realize it will take all their wits to make it home alive. Critics rave, the latest heart-pounding thriller from the director of THE SIXTH SENSE and SIGNS and the producer of PARANORMAL ACTIVITY and THE PURGE is a "DELICIOUSLY CREEPY TRIUMPH." (Scott Mendelson, Forbes.com)

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one is a bit different. Kind of a cross between a found footage movie and a regular one as not all the scenes seemed to be like found footage. There is things I liked about this one and things I did not. One thing I liked about it... and the truly scary part about this film is that it could really happen in today's world. While it is worth watching I really don't know how much I would re-watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 11, 2017, 10:37:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I2/I2EE8690362B08DC7f.jpg)      Cat People: A Val Lewton Horror Double Feature (1942/United States)
Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cat_People_(1942_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0034587/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ADPSaybusM) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Jacques Tourneur
Writing:DeWitt Bodeen (Writer)
Length:73 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Simone Simon as Irena Reed
Kent Smith (1907) as Oliver ''Ollie'' Reed
Tom Conway as Dr. Louis Judd
Jane Randolph as Alice Moore
Jack Holt as The Commodore

Plot:
The studio gave Val Lewton small budgets and lurid pre-tested film titles. Lewton, working with rising filmmakers and emphasizing fear of the unseen, turned meager resources into momentous works of psychological terror. Directed by Jacques Tourneur, Cat People is the trailblazing first of Lewton's nine horror classics. Simone Simon portrays a bride who fears an ancient hex will turn her into a deadly panther when she's in passion's grip. Simon returns in The Curse of the Cat People, a sequel in title and a landmark study of a troubled child in fact. Robert Wise makes his directing debut, co-helming a gothic-laced mix of fantasy and fright so astute it was used in college psychology classes.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one I enjoyed a lot. Even if there was a couple of slow scenes in it where I caught myself checking the clock. Like a lot of horror from this time it is more about what you do not see then what you do. There is some great suspenseful scenes... I especially enjoyed one scene at a hotel swimming pool. And I must mention the star of this movie... Someone named Simone Simon. This is the first time I ever seen anything with her in it. But she was absolutely adorable... and I loved her accent. Not sure if it was real... but I would guess so since she was born in France. If you never seen this classic horror... I highly recommend it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 12, 2017, 01:43:13 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936234220f.jpg)      The Watcher in the Woods (1980/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Disney DVD, Buena Vista Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:John Hough
Writing:Brian Clemens (Screenwriter), Harry Spalding (Screenwriter), Rosemary Anne Sisson (Screenwriter), Florence Engel Randall (Original Material By)
Length:83 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French

Stars:
Bette Davis as Mrs. Aylwood
Carroll Baker as Helen Curtis
David McCallum (1933) as Paul Curtis
Lynn-Holly Johnson as Jan Curtis
Kyle Richards (1969) as Ellie Curtis

Plot:
Legendary actress and two-time Oscar® winner Bette Davis (Dangerous, 1935; Jezebel, 1938) stars in this frightening and atmospheric thriller. When an American teenager joins her family in an English country house, she experiences strange and supernatural occurrences. Mrs. Aylwood (Davis), the kindly caretaker, knows the dark secret behind the happenings...and prepares for the return of a young girl who died mysteriously some thirty years earlier! The Watcher In The Woods weaves a haunting, riveting tale that stays with you long after the explosive ending!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one I enjoyed quite a bit. It has good atmosphere... especially considering it is a Disney film. The story line keeps your attention with ease and there is a number of good stars in it. Definitely worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 12, 2017, 01:56:47 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/06/066805916779f.jpg)      The Worst Witch: The Movie (1986/United Kingdom)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Robert Young
Writing:Mary Planshette Willis (Screenwriter), Jill Murphy (Original Material By)
Length:70 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:

Stars:
Diana Rigg as Miss Hardbroom
Charlotte Rae as Miss Cackle/Agatha
Tim Curry (1946) as The Grand Wizard
Fairuza Balk as Mildred Hubble
Sabina Franklyn as Miss Spellbinder

Plot:
When pupils disappear into thin air or turn into pigs by mistake, everyone points a finger at Mildred (Fairuza Balk – The Craft) – the worst witch in the school. No matter how hard she tries to master potions and flying, something always goes wrong!

The horrid Miss Hardbroom wants Mildred expelled, but this little witch with a big heart does not give up – until the day that all her hopes come crashing down. After running away from school, it will take all of her courage and powers to conquer her fears and find her way! Hold on to your brooms while you join Mildred in this magical adventure of good and evil!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one is just cute and silly fun. Definitely aimed towards kids. Nothing here for scares of course. Though I do kind of wonder what the writers were on when they wrote this. Especially when it comes to Tim Curry's song.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 13, 2017, 11:41:03 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192257858f.jpg)      Visions (2015/)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Kevin Greutert
Writing:Lucas Sussman (Writer)
Length:83 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:

Stars:
Isla Fisher as Eveleigh Maddox
Anson Mount as David Maddox
Gillian Jacobs as Sadie
Joanna Cassidy as Helena
Eva Longoria as Eileen

Plot:
After moving to a vineyard to start a new life with her husband, a pregnant woman begins to experience terrifying visions.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a film I found on Netflix. It is a slow moving story but interesting enough to keep me watching til the end. And I am glad I stuck with it as it has a good ending. I would probably add this to my physical collection if I could find it cheap enough.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 14, 2017, 06:02:40 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I7/I718FB038BA7DDDB5f.jpg)      The Invisible Man: The Legacy Collection (1933/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Home Video (United States)
Director:James Whale
Writing:H. G. Wells (Original Material By), R. C. Sherriff (Screenwriter), Preston Sturges (Screenwriter), Philip Wylie (Screenwriter)
Length:71 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Claude Rains as The Invisible Man
Gloria Stuart as Flora Cranley
William Harrigan as Dr. Kemp
Henry Travers as Dr. Cranley
Una O'Connor as Jenny Hall (innkeeper's wife)

Plot:
Renowned acting legend Claude Rains made a remarkable screen debut in ‘The Invisible Man’, based on H.G. Wells’ acclaimed novel. Rains, a mysterious doctor, creates a serum that makes him invisible. But the miraculous potion also has the power to drive him mad, as he discovers when he is forced to commit horrific acts of terror. Directed by the master of the macabre, James Whale, ‘The Invisible Man’ set the standard for dazzling special effects with ingenious techniques that are still imitated today.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a fun classic horror. Claude Rains does a wonderful job in the title roll. Considering just how old this film is... the effects were great. I did not care much for the innkeeper's wife. I didn't like her attitude through-out the film and her hysterics was just too much to take. Other then that definitely worth watching.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 14, 2017, 08:07:26 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396297463f.jpg)      Vinyan (2008/France)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Fabrice du Welz
Writing:Fabrice du Welz (Writer)
Length:96 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French

Stars:
Emmanuelle Béart as Jeanne Bellmer
Rufus Sewell as Paul Bellmer
Petch Osathanugrah as Thaksin Gao
Julie Dreyfus as Kim
Ampton Pankratok as Sonchaï

Plot:
A couple leaves the civilized world behind and descends into a living nightmare in this chilling horror thriller. Six months after losing her only child in the Southeast Asia tsunami, Jeanne (Emmanuelle Béart, Mission: Impossible) is convinced she sees him in a film about orphans living in the jungles of Burma. While her husband (Rufus Sewell, "Eleventh Hour") is worried that she's losing her mind, he still agrees to take her to search for their son together. Introduced to a dangerous gang of human traffickers, they find themselves alone and stranded in the middle of a treacherous jungle, set upon by a band of feral children. Has their search for their son led them to a fate more horrific than death?

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one I just couldn't get into. It is a very slow movie that lost my attention in the beginning and was never able to pull me back in.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 15, 2017, 05:31:54 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360182743f.jpg)      Stephen King's Silver Bullet: Widescreen Collection (1985/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090021/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_Bullet_(film)) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hSkvsPs13I) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Paramount Home Video (United States)
Director:Daniel Attias
Writing:Stephen King (1947) (Original Material By), Stephen King (1947) (Screenwriter)
Length:95 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English

Stars:
Gary Busey as Uncle Red
Everett McGill as Reverend Lowe
Corey Haim as Marty Coslaw
Megan Follows as Jane Coslaw
Robin Groves as Nan Coslaw

Plot:
Something is killing off townsfolk in Tarker's Mills. Something mysterious. Something ingenious. Something remotely human. But the only person in town with courage to stop this lurking menace is a 13-year-old boy, confined to a wheelchair since birth. Adapted to the screen by suspense master Stephen King from his "Cycle of the Werewolf" novelette, this exhilarating thriller features astounding special effects by three-time Oscar® winner Carlo Rambaldi ("E.T.," "Alien," "King Kong").

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I have loved it since I first saw it when I was just a teen. I absolutely love the supped up wheel chair... The Silver Bullet! I really enjoyed the scene when he first got it... finding out just how fast it went. I believe Stephen King's take on the werewolf legend is just right on the spot. And I liked who the werewolf turned out to be. While it is not what I would call a gory movie... there is a scene or two that shows it's fair share of blood. There was nothing about this movie that was not just plain enjoyable. It is definitely one of my favorite werewolf movies.If by chance you never seen this film it is one I highly recommend!

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 16, 2017, 07:23:32 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I6/I6863C5456A9D0809f.jpg)      Warlock: The Armageddon (1993/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108517/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warlock:_The_Armageddon) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSrG-TqBRZI) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Lions Gate Entertainment, Vestron Video (United States)
Director:Anthony Hickox
Writing:Kevin Rock (Story By), Kevin Rock (Screenwriter), Sam Bernard (Screenwriter), David Twohy [David N. Twohy] (Original Characters By)
Length:98 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Julian Sands as Warlock
Chris Young (1978) as Kenny Travis
Paula Marshall as Samantha Ellison
Joanna Pacula as Paula Dare
Steve Kahan as Will Travis

Plot:
The Warlock (Julian Sands) returns to try and free his father from the fiery chains that imprison him – and is challenged by two warriors with supernatural powers.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This was a good sequel... I really enjoyed it a lot... but I think I prefer the first one a little more. I liked how they had the teenage couple as Druid Warriors... gave the warlock someone to fight that also had powers. Which of course made for an interesting fight.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 16, 2017, 09:27:09 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396030640f.jpg)      John Carpenter's Vampires (1998/United States)
Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kl4_ixye7f8) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vampires_(film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120877/) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Columbia TriStar Home Video (United States)
Director:John Carpenter (1948)
Writing:John Steakley (Original Material By), Don Jakoby (Screenwriter)
Length:108 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, French

Stars:
James Woods (1947) as Jack Crow
Daniel Baldwin as Montoya
Sheryl Lee as Katrina
Thomas Ian Griffith as Valek
Maximilian Schell as Cardinal Alba

Plot:
In the blood-chilling tradition of Halloween and Village of the Damned comes John Carpenter's unique vision of the ultimate killing machines, VAMPIRES.

"Forget everything you've ever heard about vampires," warns Jack Crow (James Woods), the leader of Team Crow, a relentless group of mercenary vampire slayers. When Master Vampire Valek (Thomas Ian Griffith) decimates Jack's entire team, Crow and the sole team survivor, Montoya (Daniel Baldwin), set out in pursuit. Breaking all the rules, Crow and Montoya take one of Valek's victims hostage.

The beautiful but unlucky prostitute (Sheryl Lee) is their sole psychic link to Valek, and through her senses they will track down the leader of the undead. As Valek nears the climax of his 600-year search for the Berziers Cross, Jack and the new Team Crow do everything humanly possible to prevent him from possessing the only thing that can grant him and all vampires the omnipotent power to walk in the daylight.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is another of my favorite Vampire movies. I think James Woods did a great job as a vampire hunter. The story line is great and I really like the way they did the vampires. This one is well worth the time put in to watch it. I would highly recommend it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 16, 2017, 11:32:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543671589f.jpg)      Mirrors 2: Unrated (2010/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Victor Garcia
Writing:Matt Venne (Screenwriter), Kim Sung Ho (Original Material By)
Length:90 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Nick Stahl as Max Matheson
Emmanuelle Vaugier [Emmanuelle Vaugiér] as Elizabeth Reigns
Evan Jones (1976) as Henry Schow
Christy Romano as Jenna McCarty
William Katt as Jack Matheson

Plot:
Inside The Mirrors...The Dead Live On...Waiting For Vengeance. When a young woman is brutally murdered in front of a mirror that is a portal to the world of the undead, her spirit goes on a murderous rampage. One by one, she stalks the men and women responsible for her horrific death, exacting bloody revenge by dismembering and eviscerating the guilty. They can't run...they can't hide...they can't look in the mirror!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one I liked quite a bit. The story was interesting and the effects were good. I do however think I liked the first one better. But this is definitely worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 17, 2017, 01:51:05 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/017153215663f.jpg)      The Monster Squad: Two-Disc 20th Anniversary Edition (1987/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093560/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Monster_Squad) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBG29nM_uEg) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Lions Gate Entertainment (United States)
Director:Fred Dekker
Writing:Shane Black (Writer), Fred Dekker (Writer)
Length:82 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
André Gower as Sean
Robbie Kiger as Patrick
Stephen Macht as Del
Duncan Regehr as Count Dracula
Tom Noonan (1951) as Frankenstein

Plot:
You know who to call when you have ghosts, but who do you call about monsters? Whether it's a bat in your belfry or a mummy in your microwave, THE MONSTER SQUAD ain't afraid of no ghouls!

Count Dracula has until midnight to retrieve an ancient amulet that will give him final control over the delicate balance between good and evil in the world. To help him, the creepy count calls on some old friends: the weird Wolfman, grotesque Gill-Man, mildewed Mummy and freaky Frankenstein. As the ghoulish group gets closer to the amulet, it's up to THE MONSTER SQUAD, headquartered in the local tree house, to pool its questionable resources and stop the monster mayhem!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I felt like watching something that is just plain fun next. So I pulled out The Monster Squad. This one is an old favorite of mine that I liked to try to fit in every October. Always good for a few laughs... the lines "the Wolfman has nards!" and "Well Steve... but he doesn't count!" gets me laughing every time I watch this movie. I like how they have most all the classic monsters in this movie. They made the story fun and interesting at the same time. This movie would make a good introduction for kids that are curios about horror movies. If by chance you never seen this movie I would definitely recommend it to all.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 17, 2017, 04:17:34 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012236106517f.jpg)      Near Dark (1987/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093605/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Near_Dark) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIW59HFrpiQ) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Lions Gate Films (United States)
Director:Kathryn Bigelow
Writing:Eric Red (Writer), Kathryn Bigelow (Writer)
Length:94 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, English: PCM: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Adrian Pasdar as Caleb
Jenny Wright as Mae
Lance Henriksen as Jesse
Bill Paxton as Severen
Jenette Goldstein as Diamondback

Plot:
Country boy Caleb Colton (Adrian Pasdar) whittles away the quiet rural nights hunting local girls – but when he falls prey to the mysterious and beautiful Mae (Jenny Wright), Caleb unknowingly becomes the hunted. Mae is no ordinary girl, Caleb soon learns: she is part of an outlaw band of vampires, and their love is about to lure him into a terrifying world of bloodlust, mayhem and absolute horror. Will Caleb pay the ultimate price for love and eternal life – or will he find a way to defeat the evil growing inside him each night NEAR DARK?

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a movie that has seemed to fly in under the radar for most people. I discovered it while I was working at the local video store.... and everyone I ever suggested it to never even heard of it. But yet of the MANY people that took a chance on this movie because of my recommendation... I don't remember ever hearing bad feedback. As far as I remember everyone enjoyed it!

One of the things I like about this movie is that even though while watching it there is no doubt in your mind this is a vampire movie... they never once use the word vampire in the movie... and you never once see a set of fangs. Another thing I like in this movie is the awesome bar fight scene. I have seen a few bar fight scenes in horror movies... and this is one of the best. Then you have the added bonus that one of the stars of this movie is Lance Henrikson.... a great genre actor of the time.

Another thing about it is the simplicity of it all. The portrayal of the vampires... and even the cure for vampirism is so simple that it just makes sense. This is one film that if by chance you have never seen I highly recommend it. Definitely a must see for any vampire fan.

If there is one thing I would change about this blu-ray release (other then give us more extras!... never enough extras!) it would have to be the cover art they used! looking at this cover art and I think films like Twilight. Like they are trying to pique the interest of teen girls in this film. As irritating as that seems... lets face it... that really is of little importance. The most important thing is having the film itself.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:07:54 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936234220f.jpg)

The Watcher in the Woods
Year of Release: 1980
Directed By: John Hough
Starring: Bette Davis, Carroll Baker, David McCallum, Lynn-Holly Johnson
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Horror

Overview:
Legendary actress and two-time Oscar® winner Bette Davis (Dangerous, 1935; Jezebel, 1938) stars in this frightening and atmospheric thriller. When an American teenager joins her family in an English country house, she experiences strange and supernatural occurrences. Mrs. Aylwood (Davis), the kindly caretaker, knows the dark secret behind the happenings...and prepares for the return of a young girl who died mysteriously some thirty years earlier! The Watcher In The Woods weaves a haunting, riveting tale that stays with you long after the explosive ending!

My Thoughts:
One of the better Disney live-action films. Suitably creepy atmosphere, good use of the natural setting, and reasonable amount of mystery for a family film. The acting is mostly just adequate (we're excepting Bette Davis, who is fabulous), but not nearly as bad as other live-action films aimed at kids. Interesting alternate endings, though I do thin they made the right choice for the theatrical. Recommended for something to watch with the whole family, this is good enough for both the adults and the kids.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass

Overall: 3/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:13:41 PM
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMjE5MTk5OTI5MF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjE5NzYyMQ@@._V1_UY268_CR5,0,182,268_AL_.jpg)

The Worst Witch
Year of Release: 1986
Directed By: Robert Young
Starring: Diana Rigg, Charlotte Rae, Tim Curry, Fairuza Balk
Genre: Fantasy

Overview:
Mildred is one of the young girls at a prestigious witch academy. She can't seem to do anything right and is picked on by classmates and teachers. The headmistress of the school, Miss Cackle, has an evil twin sister (Agatha) who plans to destroy the school. Can Mildred foil the plan before the Grand Wizard (Tim Curry) comes to the Academy for the Halloween celebration you'll never forget?!!

My Thoughts:
Pete once told me "Every movie is for somebody, but no movie is for everybody." I have to keep repeating that to myself, because there are people who love this turd.

The script is dull, the effects are laughable (seriously, I've seen better effects in films from 80+ years earlier), and the performances range from school play adequate to laughably bad. Seriously, people, there's camp and there's so over-the-top that you've passed camp into Everest-sized caricature. That's not even touching Tim Curry's "the filmmaker dropped acid" music video in the center of the film.

I like that almost all the characters are female - all the kids, teachers, and even the villains. That's really nice to see in a film aimed at kids. So 1 star for passing both Bechdel and Mako Mori. I love Tim Curry, I mean, I don't love him in this, but he is a cool dude, so we'll give this 1/2 a star for him just being in it. Still, would not recommend and have no intention of ever watching again.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass

Overall: 1.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:23:12 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/84/842498030455f.jpg)

Ghost of Mae Nak
Year of Release: 2006
Directed By: Mark Duffield
Starring: Marasri Issarangkul Na Ayutthaya, Siwat Chotchaicharin, Pornthip Papanai, Pataratida Pacharawirapong
Genre: Horror

Overview:
A young newlywed couple acquires an old abandoned house that soon brings them into contact with a vengeful spirit of horror and despair. While the ghost protects the couple from unscrupulous visitors at first, it becomes apparent that it expects a terrible favor in return. Only by setting the spirit free will they have any chance of surviving its wrath.

My Thoughts:
Decent ghost story based on a Thai folktale. Some of the acting seems a bit over done (the monk's greedy assistant comes to mind here), though I really like the actress that plays Nak. She's really good and her character develops into a strong, resourceful person. It's so nice to see a good female heroine in a horror movie. I'm not always happy with Nak's friends, and the film drags a little too long. It really should have ended with the scene before the last.

Despite the criticism, this is a good ghost story and I'd recommend it overall to folks who enjoy Asian horror. If it isn't as good as the best stuff out there, it's still a decent film that's worth seeing.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass?

Overall: 3/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:25:52 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/81/811956021342f.jpg)

Theatre of Blood
Year of Release: 1973
Directed By: Douglas Hickox
Starring: Vincent Price, Diana Rigg, Ian Hendry
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Theatre of Blood (1973), directed by Douglas Hickox, offers the one and only Vincent Price in a role both madcap and touching. He plays a Shakespearean actor determined to wreak vengeance on the critics who fail to appreciate his genius, killing them in a series of set-piece murders based on scenes from Shakespeare. Diana Rigg plays Price's Cordelia-like daughter, and a lineup of British thespian legends incarnate the critics, including Robert Morley, Jack Hawkins, Harry Andrews, Arthur Lowe, Robert Cooke, Michael Hordern, Dennis Price, Ian Hendry, and Coral Browne.

My Thoughts:
This is camp done right. Vincent Price is delightful as a Shakespearean actor driven mad by criticism. After his attempted suicide, he returns to gleefully murder his critics in elaborate Shakespeare-themed set pieces. Before and afterward he does pieces of the various plays famous monologues.

One of Price's best roles, this is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys his work. Definitely one to come back to.

Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 3.75/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:29:00 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/VV/VV029BMB3P9TS4B02f.jpg)

Night of the Living Dead
Year of Release: 1968
Directed By: George Romero
Starring: Duane Jones, Judith O'Dea, Karl Hardman, Marilyn Eastman, Keith Wayne, Judith Ridley
Genre: Horror

Overview:
In director George Romero's NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD, seven people secluded in a Pennsylvania farmhouse face relentless attacks by reanimated corpses seeking to eat their flesh. The group, which includes a married couple and their daughter, a pair of young lovers, and an African American man, try to keep their sanity as the living dead try endlessly to enter the house until they are laid to rest by burning or a severe blow to the head. As they listen to news reports of the zombie plague taking over the eastern United States, the ever-decreasing band of survivors loses ground in their battle to both keep peace with one another and stay alive.

Romero's low-budget, homegrown classic went from being unable to find a distributor to becoming one of the most influential horror films of all time. Aside from its visceral impact years before realistic gore became the fashion, the film is also important for its portrayal of a black man as the protagonist during a time when race relations were an extremely sensitive issue in the United States. Romero's choice for the ending of his film also made a shocking and bold statement about the issue.

My Thoughts:
Hard film to review here. This is super influential. Bleak, dark, actually horrific. Romero made very good choices for his low budget - the single setting, the cheap black-and-white film. He ushers in the idea that horror is not just something to hint at but something to show. We actually see the ghouls here eating the flesh and organs of their victims. Though they are called ghouls here, this is the start of the flesh-eating zombie genre. We also have a strong, resourceful, likeable hero in Ben ... who happens to be African-American.

On the bad side, I really hated Barbra. She's another example of the useless screaming woman trope that I despise. She does nothing to work toward her own survival, or to help the others. At least Harry, another character I really didn't like, did try to do things, even if he was a snivelling coward more interested in being right and being in charge.

I feel like I ought to rate this higher than I am, but for me the parts that I liked and thought were good are balanced out by my extreme dislike of Barbra.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 3.25/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:32:31 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/VV/VV90O7SQ67M36V301f.jpg)

An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe
Year of Release: 1970
Directed By: Ken Johnson
Starring: Vincent Price
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Vincent Price recites four Edgar Allen Poe stories: The Tell-Tale Heart, The Sphinx, The Cask of Amontillado, and The Pit and the Pendulum.

My Thoughts:
This short anthology film is a treat for fans of Vincent Price. He is the sole actor here, doing four of Poe's short stories as, basically, one-man stage shows. It's very much a showcase of Price's talent, since each story allows him to develop a different character.

"The Tell-Tale Heart" and "A Cask of Amontillado" are both two of Poe's best known stories and the best of these four features. One showcases Price as a raving madman, the other as cold and calculating a villain as you'll ever see. "The Pit and the Pendulum" is good, but I don't find it as engaging as the other two, though Price plays desperate terror quite well. I find "The Sphinx" the weakest of the lot, though still enjoyable.

This was made for television, and obviously very cheaply, but if you're a fan of Vincent Price it's well worth seeing.

Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 3.75/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 04:37:41 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/81/816018010838f.jpg)

The Long Hair of Death  (I lunghi capelli della morte)
Year of Release: 1964
Directed By: Antonio Margheriti
Starring: Barbara Steele, George Ardisson, Halina Zalewska, Robert Rains
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Iconic British-born queen of Gothic horror Barbara Steele (Mario Bava’s Black Sunday) is mesmerizing in this surreal, atmospheric chiller directed by Italian dark fantasy filmmaker Antonio Margheriti (Castle of Blood, Invasion of the Flesh Hunters). Essaying a dual role, Steele stars as an unlawfully-executed woman’s doomed daughter whose own murder won’t stop her from fulfilling her mother’s curse upon a despicable nobleman and his family, even from beyond the grave. Filled with shuddery, stark black and white imagery, bursts of operatic violence and featuring a thundering score by Carlo Rustichelli (Blood and Black Lace, The Whip and the Body), The Long Hair of Death stands as one of the finest European horror films of the 1960's.

My Thoughts:
Nice little Gothic chiller with a bit of ghostly revenge. Good performances from Barbara Steele and Halina Zalewska as the sisters, and Giorgio Ardisson did a good job as well, especially at making you hate his character. Lighting and setting are also done well to give this little Gothic a decent atmosphere. On the other hand, the script is kind of all over the place, and it does seem to drag a bit. Gets you into it by the last third of the film, and it does have a fine ending. Recommended if you like old school horror.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 3/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 05:29:52 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I7/I718FB038BA7DDDB5f.jpg)

The Invisible Man
Year of Release: 1933
Directed By: James Whale
Starring: Claude Rains, Gloria Stuart, William Harrigan, Henry Travers, Una O'Connor
Genre: Horror, Suspense/Thriller, Science Fiction

Overview:
Renowned acting legend Claude Rains made a remarkable screen debut in The Invisible Man, based on H.G. Wells’ acclaimed novel. Rains, a mysterious doctor, creates a serum that makes him invisible. But the miraculous potion also has the power to drive him mad, as he discovers when he is forced to commit horrific acts of terror. Directed by the master of the macabre, James Whale, The Invisible Man set the standard for dazzling special effects with ingenious techniques that are still imitated today.

My Thoughts:
This is my second time watching The Invisible Man and the effects are still amazing when you think this was made in 1933. Claude Rains performance still carries the film. He is able to embody this character, and tell you so much about him, with only his voice. I am also still annoyed with Gloria Stuart's hysterical, weepy, useless Flora. Una O’Connor's character also grates on the nerves.

These are minor complaints to an otherwise classic film that is not only influential but still holds up quite well and is a lot of fun to watch.  Recommended for anyone who enjoys classic horror or classic films in general.

Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 3.5/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 05:32:31 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/80/807839001723f.jpg)

Wishing Stairs
Year of Release: 2003
Directed By: Jae-Yeon Yun
Starring: Ji-hyo Song, Han-byeol Park, An Jo, Ji-Yeon Park
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Legend has it, if you climb the 28 stairs leading to the school dormitory and count each step aloud, a 29th step will appear and a spirit will grant you a wish. If your intentions are honorable, your wish can be a blessing of good fortune. But at this high school, where jealousy and paranoia reign supreme, malicious wishes are about to unleash an unspeakable evil. Be careful what you wish for; some wishes were never meant to be granted.

My Thoughts:
This is the third Whispering Corridors film. Like the previous two, it's a film about the pressures of high school, bullying, academic expectaitons, and also about love and friendship, and taboo relationships. It's about girls who care for one another but are also forced into intense competition. It starts off slow, giving us a chance to get to know these girls and build their relationships before things get grim and horrific. Be careful what you wish for. The film then develops into a genuinely creepy ghost story. Recommended for folks who enjoy Korean horror. The first two films in this series are pretty good too.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass

Overall: 3.25/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 05:43:10 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I1/I13E193F1583A2720f.jpg)

Isle of the Dead
Year of Release: 1945
Directed By: Mark Robson
Starring: Boris Karloff, Ellen Drew, Marc Cramer, Katherine Emery, Helene Thimig
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Horror

Overview:
The most celebrated star in the history of screen horror headlines these two atmospheric works filled with producer Val Lewton's trademark mix of mood, madness and premeditated dread. Boris Karloff shares a quarantined house with other strangers on a plague-infested - perhaps spirit-haunted Isle of the Dead.

My Thoughts:
Decent short thriller starring Boris Karloff, that proves that nothing is more deadly than superstition coupled with authority. Karloff is a talented actor and he's playing a kind of character here that I haven't seen from him before. (Though to be fair, he made a lot of movies and I feel like I haven't scratched the surface.) I also really liked both Katherine Emery and Ellen Drew's characters, as they weren't the usual screamers I expect in films of this vintage. Both had their moments of fear and weakness, but both had their moments of strength as well. Not exactly a horror film, IMO, really a thriller with horror elements, but recommended if you enjoy the shorter 40's thrillers.

Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 3.25/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 05:46:10 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396470804f.jpg)

The Shallows
Year of Release: 2016
Directed By: Jaume Collet-Serra
Starring: Blake Lively, Óscar Jaenada, Angelo Josue Lozano Corzo, Jose Manuel Trujillo Salas
Genre: Drama, Horror, Suspense/Thriller

Overview:
In the taut thriller,when Nancy (Blake Lively) is surfing on a secluded beach, she finds herself on the feeding ground of a great white shark. Though she is stranded only 200 yards from shore, survival proves to be the ultimate test of wills, requiring all of Nancy's ingenuity,resourcefulness and fortitude.

My Thoughts:
Really sharp, tense piece of survival horror. Beautifully filmed in a gorgeous location that belies the danger lurking beneath the surface. Blake Lively does a great job as the young woman trying to escape her problems only to be confronted by one she can't run away from. I love love love her character arc. She develops into a really strong, kick-ass person who is determined to fight for her life. I also really like that you find out a bit about the shark that gives him a motivation for being so interested in killing humans.

Overall, great film and highly recommended for fans of survival horror.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass

Overall: 4/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 05:53:39 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929549511f.jpg)

Cat's Eye
Year of Release: 1985
Directed By: Lewis Teague
Starring: Drew Barrymore, James Woods, Alan King, Kenneth McMillan, Robert Hays
Genre: Suspense/Thriller, Horror

Overview:
A wandering supernatural feline's adventures provide the linking story for Stephen King's Cat's Eye, a dead-on thrillogy scripted by King and directed by Lewis Teague (Cujo). The staff at Quitters Inc. promises to help nicotine fiend Dick Morrison (James Woods) kick the habit. Next, a luckless gambler (Robert Hays) is forced into a bet involving a stroll around the building – on the five-inch ledge encircling the 30th floor. Finally, our wayfarer kitty rescues a schoolgirl (Drew Barrymore) from a vile, doll-sized troll.

My Thoughts:
Solid, if not inspiring, piece of anthology horror. Everyone gives a good performance, though I found the mother's character in "The General" to be a bit over-the-top with her immediate hatred of the cat.

"Quitters Inc." is the first short, and easily the most horrific. It's really the only piece to remain a true story of horror, for it has an open ending hinting at the possibility that it will never end. Definitely the best of the three. "The General" was my favorite, because I really liked the design of the troll and it's the story you get to see the most of the cat in. The central piece, "The Ledge," is a good story, but I simply didn't connect with it as well as the other two.

There are some cute nods to other works of Stephen King's such as Cujo and Christine being the most obvious. Definitely recommended for fans of King's, and wouldn't be a bad choice for a watch with older kids who want a horror film.

Bechdel Test: Pass
Mako Mori Test: Pass

Overall: 3.25/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 05:58:37 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883929329854f.jpg)

In the Mouth of Madness
Year of Release: 1994
Directed By: John Carpenter
Starring: Sam Neill, Julie Carmen, Jurgen Prochnow
Genre: Horror

Overview:
Sutter Cane is this century's most widely read author and his novels have been translated into 18 different languages, spawning a billion dollar industry. When Cane vanishes just days before he's expected to deliver his last manuscript, his publisher hires John Trent to investigate his disappearance. Trent believe at first it's an ill conceived publicity stunt--until he and Linda Styles, Cane's editor, travel to New England. There, they wind up in a town that cannot be found on any ordinary map- called Hobbs End, a fictional village that exists only in Cane's novels. Has the investigation unearthed a fantasy world or has reality blended with the macabre imagination of Sutter Cane?

My Thoughts:
Though this adapts no specific story, it has the most wonderful Lovecraftian feel. The idea of ancient beings of terrible and immense power, of humanity teetering on the edge of knowlege to horrific to be borne; that is so much Lovecraft's work. If you're a Lovecraft fan looking for a good movie adapted from his work, you won't be disappointed.

Sam Neill does a great job as the insurance investigator sent to find missing best-selling author Sutter Cane, whose latest manuscript will be worth millions of dollars to his publishing house if only they can lay their hands on it. He embodies a certain kind of character here, the sceptic that continually denies even after evidence is presented until it completely overwhelms him, and makes him both realistic and sympathetic.

Really, really excellent film. Not a linear film, and you should pay attention to catch all the details. Feels like it should be a must see for horror fans.

Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 4/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: Danae Cassandra on October 18, 2017, 06:02:40 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025195046107f.jpg)

The Thing
Year of Release: 1982
Directed By: John Carpenter
Starring: Kurt Russell, A. Wilford Brimley, T.K. Carter, David Clennon
Genre: Horror, Science Fiction

Overview:
Horror-meister John Carpenter (Halloween, Escape from New York) teams Kurt Russell's outstanding performance with incredible visuals to build this chilling version of the classic The Thing. In the winter of 1982, a twelve-man research team at a remote Antarctic research station discovers an alien buried in the snow for over 100,000 years. Once unfrozen, the form-changing alien wreaks havoc, creates terror and becomes one of them.

My Thoughts:
Another Lovecraftian film, for all that it's based on a novella by John W. Campbell, Jr. I was personally reminded a lot of At the Mountains of Madness, likely because of the Antarctic setting and the alien entity.

Really well done piece of sci-fi horror. Great work at showing the paranoia and breakdown of trust that happens between the crew as they begin to suspect that everyone around them may be an enemy. Great use of the isolated setting, and how that isolation can feed into the horror. Carpenter has some really gruesome, bloody effects here in the alien transformations, making this a body horror as well as anything else. Kurt Russell is really good in his role as our hero, and I came to appreciate his character more than I thought I would when he was first introduced. In fact, I thought all of the cast was strong.

Good directing, good cast, strong script, all round good film. I can see why this is so highly thought of. High recommendation from me as well. Likely a must see for horror fans.

Bechdel Test: Fail
Mako Mori Test: Fail

Overall: 4/5
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 18, 2017, 08:19:26 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/82/826663144390f.jpg)      Body Bags: Collector's Edition (1993/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106449/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_Bags_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLuApEHt4h4) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Scream Factory, Shout! Factory (United States)
Director:John Carpenter (1948), Tobe Hooper
Writing:Billy Brown (Writer), Dan Angel (Writer)
Length:94 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English

Stars:
"THE MORGUE"John Carpenter (1948) as Coroner
Tom Arnold as Man #1
Tobe Hooper as Man #2
"THE GAS STATION"

Plot:
Two Masters of Horror – John Carpenter (Halloween, The Thing) and Tobe Hooper (The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Lifeforce) – come together to create a chilling anthology of terror.

Alex Datcher (Passenger 57) stars as a woman working the late shift at "The Gas Station" while a killer is on the loose. Then, Stacy Keach (Road Games) can't stand the thought of losing his "Hair" and he'll do anything to keep it. And finally, Mark Hamill (Star Wars) portrays a baseball player that submits to an "Eye" transplant after he loses an eye in a car accident.

Featuring guest appearances by Deborah Harry, Sheena Easton, Twiggy, David Naughton (An American Werewolf In London), John Agar (Tarantula), David Warner (Time After Time) and cameos by Wes Craven, Tobe Hooper and Roger Corman, Body Bags delivers a fright-filled night of horror.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a TV movie that originally aired on Showtime. Going into this one all I really really remembered is I enjoyed it quite a bit. While I didn't enjoy it quite as much as I remembered... I still enjoyed it quite a bit and glad I finally have it in my collection. The first of the stories is by far my favorite. The other two... while not as good... are still rather enjoyable.This film is worth the hour and a half you need to put in to watch it. But it is not the best anthology horror I have seen.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 19, 2017, 04:28:37 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192285769f.jpg)      The Mummy (2017/United States)
Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mummy_(2017_film)) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2345759/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCdV3esMr9M) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Alex Kurtzman
Writing:David Koepp (Screenwriter), Christopher McQuarrie (Screenwriter), Dylan Kussman (Screenwriter), Jon Spaihts (Story By), Alex Kurtzman (Story By), Jenny Lumet (Story By)
Length:110 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: Dolby TrueHD: 7.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Tom Cruise as Nick Morton
Russell Crowe as Henry Jekyll
Annabelle Wallis as Jenny Halsey
Sofia Boutella as Ahmanet
Jake Johnson (1978) as Sgt. Vail

Plot:
Tom Cruise stars in this spectacular version of the legend that has fascinated cultures all over the world since the dawn of civilization: The Mummy. Thought safely entombed deep beneath the desert, an ancient princess (Sofia Boutella) whose destiny was unjustly taken from her is awakened in our current day. Her malevolence has grown over millennia and with it come terrors that defy human comprehension. From the sands of the Middle East through modern-day London. The Mummy balances wonder, thrills and imagination.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This film is a good combination of action and horror. It is not the greatest I seen of it's type... but well worth the time put in to watch it. I never been a huge fan of Tom Cruise... but he has grown on me over the past few years. I am not really familiar with the actress but I liked the woman that played Ahmanet. I also liked how they left the ending open for a possible franchise.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 19, 2017, 10:22:44 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616852939f.jpg)      Tales of Terror (1962/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)MGM Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Roger Corman
Writing:Richard Matheson (Screenwriter), Edgar Allan Poe (Original Material By)
Length:89 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:French, Spanish

Stars:
MorellaVincent Price (1911) as Locke
Maggie Pierce as Lenora
Leona Gage as Morella


Plot:
This triple treat of terror is a three-episode "blood-dripping package that includes murder, necrophilia, dementia, live burials, open tombs, exhumation, resurrection, zombies and feline vengeance," resulting in nothing less than "juicy entertainment" and "spine-chilling cinema" (Cue). Mix in three of horrordom's greatest villains, Vincent Price, Peter Lorre and Basil Rathbone, and you've got a shocker you dare not watch alone!

Price stars in all three episodes, including Morella, in which a man is haunted after blaming his young daughter for the death of his wife. In The Black Cat, a pair of illicit lovers are buried alive by a jealous husband, and in The Case of M. Valdemar, a sorcerer's spell backfires when he sentences an innocent man to living hell.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one is very good. I enjoyed all segments. But I especially liked the middle segment with Peter Lorre.... The Black Cat. That has to be my favorite of the three. Definitely worth the time put in to watch it. Recommended.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 20, 2017, 01:34:30 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/87/876964001793f.jpg)      Let the Right One In (2008/Sweden)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1139797/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Let_the_Right_One_In_(film)) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICp4g9p_rgo) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Magnolia Home Entertainment, Magnet (United States)
Director:Tomas Alfredson
Writing:John Ajvide Lindqvist (Screenwriter), John Ajvide Lindqvist (Original Material By)
Length:115 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Swedish: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Kåre Hedebrant as Oskar
Lina Leandersson as Eli
Per Ragnar as Håkan
Henrik Dahl as Erik
Karin Bergquist as Yvonne

Plot:
Lonely, 12-year-old Oskar is regularly bullied by his stronger classmates. A new friendship develops when Eli, a pale, serious young girl who only comes out at night moves in next door. Coinciding with her arrival is a series of inexplicable disappearances and murders. As Oskar becomes more aware of Eli's tragic plight, he cannot forsake her. However, Eli knows that to continue living, she must keep relocating. But when Oskar faces his darkest hour, Eli returns to defend him the only way she can...

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I enjoyed this one very much. It is at a slower pace then I am normally used to... but that really works with this storyline. I liked the way this movie handled entering a home without an invite. An idea I never seen before... as the way I normally see it the vampire just cannot enter... like there is an invisible force field in the way. So I got to see something I never seen in a vampire movie before this one... and with all the vampire movies I ever seen... that is saying a lot. This is one I definitely recommend... if you never seen it... give it a chance!

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 20, 2017, 01:25:12 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/71/717951006288f.jpg)      Tower of Terror (1997/)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0131620/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_of_Terror_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln1LVfUSa2U) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Buena Vista Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:D. J. MacHale
Writing:D. J. MacHale (Writer)
Length:89 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:

Stars:
Steve Guttenberg as Buzzy Crocker
Kirsten Dunst as Anna
Nia Peeples as Jill Perry
Michael McShane as Chris 'Q' Todd
Amzie Strickland as Abigail Gregory

Plot:
Big-screen stars Steve Guttenberg (Three Men And A Little Lady) and Kirsten Dunst (Drop Dead Gorgeous) encounter a host of haunts in this delightfully spooky mystery! Buzzy Crocker (Guttenberg) is a hard-luck photojournalist whose unexpected encounter with an old woman leads him to investigate an unexplained, decades-old disappearance. It seems that one Halloween night, many years ago, five partygoers vanished in the elevator of the Hollywood Tower Hotel...and ever since, their ghosts have remained trapped inside the dilapidated old building! In an action-filled story that delivers creepy fun for everyone, Buzzy ultimately teams with his niece (Dunst) to solve the mystery while managing to save their lives and capture the biggest story of the year!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a film that my daughter and I used to watch... so holds some nostalgia for me. I found it to be a fun movie. I have seen better, but is well worth the watch and perfect for family entertainment during the Halloween season. I recommend giving it a chance.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 20, 2017, 08:22:00 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/82/826663175295f.jpg)      The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3289956/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtTAhXuiRTc) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Autopsy_of_Jane_Doe) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Shout! Factory (United States)
Director:André Øvredal
Writing:Ian Goldberg (Writer), Richard Naing (Writer)
Length:87 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Brian Cox (1946) as Tommy
Emile Hirsch as Austin
Ophelia Lovibond as Emma
Michael McElhatton as Sheriff Burke
Olwen Kelley as Jane Doe

Plot:
It's just another night at the morgue for a father (Brian Cox, Trick 'r Treat, Zodiac) and son (Emile Hirsch, Lone Survivor, Killer Joe) team of coroners, until an unidentified, highly unusual corpse arrives. Discovered buried in the basement of the home of a brutally murdered family, the young Jane Doe — eerily well-preserved and with no visible signs of trauma — is shrouded in mystery. As they work into the night to piece together the cause of her death, the two men begin to uncover the disturbing secrets of her life. Soon, a series of terrifying events make it clear: this Jane Doe may not be dead. The latest from Troll Hunter director André Øvredal is a scarily unpredictable, supernatural shocker that never lets up. This chiller also stars Ophelia Lovibond (Guardians Of The Galaxy) and Michael McEhatton (Game Of Thrones).

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one I enjoyed quite a bit. It has some decent atmosphere as well as some unusual and unexpected visuals. The story line itself easily kept my interest. I would say this one is worth the time put in to watch it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 20, 2017, 09:48:42 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/030306759395f.jpg)      Trilogy of Terror: Special Edition (1975/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0073820/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trilogy_of_Terror) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)MPI Home Video, Dark Sky Films (United States)
Director:Dan Curtis
Writing:JulieWilliam F. Nolan (Screenwriter), Richard Matheson (Original Material By), Millicent and ThereseWilliam F. Nolan (Screenwriter), Richard Matheson (Original Material By), AmeliaRichard Matheson (Screenwriter), Richard Matheson (Original Material By)
Length:72 min.
Video:Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:English

Stars:
Karen Black as Julie/Millicent/Therese/Amelia
Robert Burton (1895) as Chad Foster
John Karlen as Thomas Amman
George Gaynes as Dr. Chester Ramsey
James Storm as Eddie Nells

Plot:
Legendary producer/director Dan Curtis (Dark Shadows, The Night Stalker) teams up with writers Richard Matheson (I Am Legend, The Twilight Zone) and William F. Nolan (Logan's Run, Burnt Offerings) to present three tales of horrific suspense in this made-for-television anthology that also showcases the tremendous acting talent of Karen Black (House of 1,000 Corpses, Easy Rider), who plays four distinct roles. In "Julie," an aggressive college student seduces and ultimately blackmails his seemingly shy English professor. In "Millicent and Therese," two polar-opposite sisters become increasingly hell-bent on the undoing of one another. And in "Amelia," a woman falls prey to a murderous Zuni fetish doll.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is a TV movie from back in the '70s. Remembering back to when I was working at our local video store... this movie was in great demand. Unfortunately at the time I never got to see it myself as the store's copy disappeared and none of our distributors at the time could locate a new copy for us (this is back in the VHS days). So the first time I got to see this movie was when I first got it on DVD back in 2007. And I must say I enjoyed it very much! And I have definitely got my money worth out of it as I have watched this film several times since.

The first story,Julie, Karen Black plays a College Professor who gets seduced and blackmailed (as the cover says).I liked how the student didn't have as much control over things as he thought he did. An enjoyable segment... but not my favorite.

The next story is Millicent and Therese where we have some sibling rivalry. This one, while I still enjoyed it, it wasn't as good as the first one. So this one has to be my least favorite segment of the movie.

The final story, Amelia, a woman falls prey to a murderous Zuni Fetish Doll. This is my favorite segment of the entire movie. It was very well done... especially for the time. And I just couldn't help but to get a kick out of that Zuni Fetish Doll. And as much as I liked that little guy... I must say the final scene is really what clinched this segment for me.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 20, 2017, 11:16:56 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I9/I9E935DED175A66AFf.jpg)      Badass Monster Killer: Limited Edition (2015/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5252606/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IYkFsor6CoM) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png) (United States)
Director:Darin Wood
Writing:Darin Wood (Writer)
Length:96 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: PCM: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:

Stars:
Jawara Duncan as Jimmy Chevelle
Amy Geiger as Lola Maldonado
Ryan Cicak as Reverend Anton Dellamorte
Stephanie Hyden as Nina Valencia
Tara Henry as Chief McCracken

Plot:
On the trashy side of Camaroville, there's a mob turf war going down, but the new gang in town ain't content with merely controlling the local dope and sex trade. They are also mixed up with dangerous black magic, intent on resurrecting hideous demon-gods who have waited centuries for the chance to eat all our souls and enslave mankind!

These blasphemous bad guys need stopping, and Jimmy Chevelle, agent of The Department of Supernatural Security, is just the cat to do the stopping. He hasn't let the man keep him down, and he's certainly not going to let some sinister shape-shifting suckas destroy the earth, and all of its foxy, foxy chicks, if HE can help it.

But can he stop the gangster cult's evil plans in time? Get ready for a freaky, funky thrill ride with demonic pimps, kung fu super foxes and terrible sanity-shattering extraterrestrial horrors from beyond space and time!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This one is just plane bad. Between the blackplotation and the bad acting had me feeling this already. But the kicker in this one for me was the fact that they did something digitally to the background over every single scene giving it a dirty, distorted and cartoonish look. Having the background like this in every scene literally made my eyes hurt and gave me a headache. This is one time I couldn't even finish the film.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 21, 2017, 03:03:58 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I2/I205449251F8848B4f.jpg)      Tim Burton's Corpse Bride (2005/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0121164/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corpse_Bride) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGACeWVdFqo) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Warner Home Video (United States)
Director:Mike Johnson, Tim Burton
Writing:Tim Burton (Original Characters By), Carlos Grangel (Original Characters By), John August (Screenwriter), Caroline Thompson (Screenwriter), Pamela Pettler (Screenwriter)
Length:77 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), French: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), Spanish: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), Music Only: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish

Stars:
Johnny Depp as Victor Van Dort (voice)
Helena Bonham Carter as Corpse Bride (voice)
Emily Watson (1967) as Victoria Everglot (voice)
Tracey Ullman as Nell Van Dort/Hildegarde (voice)
Paul Whitehouse as William Van Dort/Mayhew/Paul The Head (voice)

Plot:
An Academy Award® nominee and National Board of Review Award winner as 2005's Best Animated Feature, Tim Burton's Corpse Bride carries on in the dark, romantic tradition of his classic Edward Scissorhands and Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Set in a 19th-century European village, this stop-motion animated feature follows the story of Victor (voiced by Johnny Depp), a young man whisked away to the underworld and wed to a mysterious Corpse Bride (voiced by Helena Bonham Carter), while his real bride Victoria (voiced by Emily Watson) waits bereft in the land of the living. Though life in the Land of the Dead proves to be a lot more colorful than his strict upbringing, Victor learns that there is nothing in this world – or the next – that can keep him away from his one true love. It's a tale of optimism, romance and a very lively afterlife, told in classic Burton style.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

One look at this film and you know it is one of Tim Burton's. This is a fun film perfect for the Halloween season. I can see this one easily becoming a Halloween tradition. The story, the atmosphere, the cast... all this makes for a film that is well worth the time put in to watch it. Definitely one I would recommend for a good time with at least most ages in the family.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 21, 2017, 03:25:26 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/06/065935576549.3f.jpg)      Cube (1997/Canada)
Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAWSkYqqkMA) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0123755/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cube_(film)) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Alliance Films, Alliance Atlantis (Canada)
Director:Vincenzo Natali
Writing:Andre Bijelic (Writer), Vincenzo Natali (Writer), Graeme Manson (Writer)
Length:90 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, French: DTS-HD Master Audio: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:French

Stars:
Nicole deBoer as Leaven
Nicky Guadagni as Holloway
David Hewlett as Worth
Andrew Miller as Kazan
Julian Richings as Alderson

Plot:
Six ordinary strangers awaken to find themselves in a seemingly endless maze of interlocking cubical chambers armed with lethal booby traps. Without food or water, they have only a few days to live. None of them knows how or why they've been imprisoned, but soon discover that each possesses a skill that could contribute to their escape. As they work together to extricate themselves from their claustrophobic cell, one thing becomes painfully clear—unless they learn to cooperate to solve the secrets of this deadly trap, none of them has very long to live...

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I enjoy this one. Watched it several times over the years. Cube does have a bit of gore in it... but it has much more then that... shows what people are capable of in the name of survival. And you better believe... some of it is not pretty. Another thing I really enjoyed in this movie... it was my first introduction to Nicole DeBoer... an actress I quickly became a fan of. An interesting film for sure.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 21, 2017, 05:40:29 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398826422f.jpg)      Cube 2: Hypercube (2002/Canada)
Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cube_2:_Hypercube) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0285492/) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2m1aCPB_Ni8) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Lions Gate Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Andrzej Sekula
Writing:Sean Hood (Screenwriter), Ernie Barbarash (Screenwriter), Lauren McLaughlin (Screenwriter), Sean Hood (Story By)
Length:94 min.
Video:Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Kari Matchett as Kate Filmore
Geraint Wyn Davies as Simon Grady
Grace Lynn Kung as Sasha
Matthew Ferguson as Max Reisler
Neil Crone as Jerry Whitehall

Plot:
Eight strangers wake up in a bizarre cube with no recollection of how they got there and no idea of how to get out. They soon discover that they're in a deadly dimension where the laws of physics don't apply and they must unravel the secrets of the "hypercube" in order to survive.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Interesting film. I definitely like the first one better. Though I did like the hypercube... very cool. This one only has one familiar face in it... Graint Wyn Davies from the TV series Forever Knight. Worth the time needed to watch... but nothing to get too excited about.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 21, 2017, 08:44:51 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396488632f.jpg)      Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2592614/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resident_Evil:_The_Final_Chapter) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79Sd4GtOXuI) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Paul W.S. Anderson
Writing:Paul W.S. Anderson (Writer)
Length:107 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 7.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Portuguese: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Thai: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:Bahasa, Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai, Vietnamese

Stars:
Milla Jovovich as Alice
Iain Glen as Dr. Isaacs
Ali Larter as Claire Redfield
Shawn Roberts as Wesker
Eoin Macken as Doc

Plot:
Picking up after Resident Evil: Retribution, Alice (Milla Jovovich) is the only survivor of what was meant to be humanity's final stand against the undead. Now, she must return to where the nightmare began – The Hive in Raccoon City, where the Umbrella Corporation is gathering its forces for a final strike against the only remaining survivors of the apocalypse.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I found this to be a good, fun film. But I am not surprised as I always liked Action/horror films. Not to mention I have always been a Resident Evil fan. I enjoy both the film and game franchises. I think they did a good job concluding the story line.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 21, 2017, 11:11:03 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/65/651191950720f.jpg)      Barricade (2012/United States)

(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)WWE Studios (United States)
Director:Andrew Currie
Writing:Michael Brent Collings (Writer)
Length:82 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:French, Spanish

Stars:
Eric McCormack as Terrance Shade
Jody Thompson (1976) as Leah Shade
Conner Dwelly as Cynthia Shade
Ryan Grantham as Jake Shade
Donnelly Rhodes as Sheriff Howes

Plot:
Terrence Shade (Eric McCormack) takes his children on a holiday getaway to a cabin in the woods. But when a blizzard buries the house, the family finds themselves trapped and without communication. As the storm surges on outside, a sinister presence materializes. Unable to explain it, and unable to escape it, they quickly realize that maybe they haven't locked the evil out...instead they've just locked it in.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

Not bad... but it can get a little confusing if you don't give it your full attention.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 22, 2017, 03:47:27 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396381520f.jpg)      Insidious (2011/United States)
Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfcHoXTlMX0) |IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1591095/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insidious_(film)) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:James Wan
Writing:Leigh Whannell (Writer)
Length:103 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Patrick Wilson (1973) as Josh Lambert
Rose Byrne as Renai Lambert
Ty Simpkins as Dalton Lambert
Lin Shaye as Elise Rainier
Leigh Whannell as Specs

Plot:
From the makers of Paranormal Activity, INSIDIOUS is the terrifying story of a family who, shortly after moving, discovers that dark spirits have possessed their home and that their son has inexplicably fallen into a coma. Trying to escape the haunting and save their son, they move again only to realize that it was not their house that was haunted.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is my second viewing of the film. I did like it but found I didn't care about the characters as much as I should have. The atmosphere was good... but not great. Though it did have some pretty cool visuals.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 27, 2017, 05:32:46 PM
Still been watching but been a bit busy to write reviews... but here is a list of films and ratings that I watched since last post...

It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown
Clue
All Hallow's Eve
The Babysitter
Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 28, 2017, 06:35:56 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543743767f.jpg)      Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0103893/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffy_the_Vampire_Slayer_(film)) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnZkV_aR_9w) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Fran Rubel Kuzui
Writing:Joss Whedon (Writer)
Length:86 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 7.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: DTS: 5.1, French: DTS: 5.1, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: Mono, German: DTS: 5.1, Italian: DTS: 5.1, Russian: DTS: 5.1, Thai: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:Chinese, Croatian, Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Icelandic, Italian, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish

Stars:
Candy Clark as Buffy's Mom
Kristy Swanson as Buffy
Donald Sutherland as Merrick
Paul Reubens as Amilyn
Rutger Hauer as Lothos

Plot:
Blonde, bouncy Buffy (KRISTY SWANSON) is your typical high school cheerleader – her goal is to "marry Christian Slater and die" and nothing gets in her way when it's time to shop. But all that changes when a strange man (DONALD SUTHERLAND) informs her she's been chosen by fate to kill vampires.

With the help of a romantic rebel (LUKE PERRY), Buffy is soon spending school nights protecting L.A. from Lothos, the Vampire King (RUTGER HAUER), his sidekick, Lefty (PAUL REUBENS), and their determined gang of bloodsuckers. It's everything you'd expect from a teen queen in the Valley.

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I know a lot of people that prefer the TV Series to this movie... and I agree... I do enjoy the series more... but I do still enjoy the movie as well. As much as I enjoy this one... I have no idea why. It isn't particularly that funny... but all the same I still really get a kick out of it.... and keep finding myself coming back to it! I think if you go into this one expecting what it is... a silly, cheesy movie... then I think you will enjoy it.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 30, 2017, 03:38:05 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396460850f.jpg)      Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2510894/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hotel_Transylvania_2) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3nqmGgnJe8) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (United States)
Director:Genndy Tartakovsky
Writing:Robert Smigel (Writer), Adam Sandler (Writer)
Length:89 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: DTS-HD Master Audio: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, French, Spanish, Commentary

Stars:
Adam Sandler as Dracula (voice)
Andy Samberg as Jonathan (voice)
Selena Gomez as Mavis (voice)
Kevin James (1965) as Frankenstein (voice)
Steve Buscemi as Wayne (voice)

Plot:
In this all-new monster comedy adventure, everything seems to be changing for the better at Hotel Transylvania! However, Drac is worried that his adorable half-human, half-vampire grandson, Dennis, isn't showing signs of being a vampire. So while Mavis is on vacation, things get batty as Drac enlists his monster friends Frank, Murray, Wayne and Griffin to put Dennis through a "monster-in-training" boot camp!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I must say... while I enjoy the first one a little more... I really liked this one as well. Lots of laugh out loud moments with many (if not all) the characters from the first movie. I can see myself watching a Hotel Transylvania double feature often! It is a must see if you liked the fist one.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 30, 2017, 06:13:02 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/013138315083f.jpg)      Stan Helsing (2009/Canada)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1185266/) |Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stan_Helsing) |Trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzGV1uLXnF4) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Anchor Bay Entertainment (United States)
Director:Bo Zenga
Writing:Bo Zenga (Writer)
Length:90 min.
Video:Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio:English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: PCM: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English

Stars:
Steve Howey as Stan
Diora Baird as Nadine
Kenan Thompson as Teddy
Desi Lydic as Mia
Leslie Nielsen as Kay

Plot:
It's Halloween night, and video clerk Stan Helsing (Steve Howey of REBA) along with his sexy ex-girlfriend (Diora Baird of THE WEDDING CRASHERS and TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE: THE BEGINNING), his best buddy (Kenan Thompson of SNL) and an "exotic dancer/massage therapist" (Desi Lydic) - detour into a town cursed by parodies of 6 of the biggest monsters in movie history: Freddy (A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET), Jason (FRIDAY THE 13TH), Pinhead (HELLRAISER), Leatherface (THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE), Chucky (CHILD'S PLAY) and Michael Myers (HALLOWEEN). But when Stan discovers that he's a direct descendant of the legendary monster hunter Van Helsing, the four have to survive a night with the monsters, homicidal hitchhikers, vampire strippers, killer karaoke, and the temptations of lots of hot chicks. Did we mention that Leslie Nielsen of AIRPLANE! and THE NAKED GUN co-stars in this hysterical horror spoof written by one of the guys who brought you SCARY MOVIE? Now take this movie to the front of the store and pay the man!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

I used to be more into these spoof films then I am now. But I still enjoy one every now and then. This one is just average. It has a few decent laughs.... but for the most part it is just silly in a stupid way.

Rating:
Title: Re: Horror / Halloween 2017 Challenge
Post by: addicted2dvd on October 31, 2017, 06:34:45 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/I6/I6CF3E821431AD2BAf.jpg)      Halloween (1978/United States)
IMDb (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0077651/) |Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween_(1978_film)) |Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5ke9IPTIJQ) |
(http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)Anchor Bay Entertainment (United States)
Director:John Carpenter (1948)
Writing:John Carpenter (1948) (Screenwriter), Debra Hill (Screenwriter)
Length:91 min.
Video:Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio:English: Dolby TrueHD: 7.1, English: Dolby TrueHD: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:English, Spanish

Stars:
Donald Pleasence as Loomis
Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie
Nancy Kyes [Nancy Loomis] as Annie
P. J. Soles [P J Soles] as Lynda
Charles Cyphers as Brackett

Plot:
"Halloween," says Entertainment Weekly, "is, was, and ever shall be the alpha and omega of boogeyman flicks." And to commemorate its legacy as one of the greatest horror films of all time, John Carpenter's 1978 masterpiece is now presented in this ultimate fan edition. This Blu-ray features a newly remastered HD transfer supervised by cinematographer Dean Cundey, all-new Dolby TrueHD 7.1 audio AND original mono soundtracks, an audio commentary reuniting director John Carpenter and star Jamie Lee Curtis, an hour-long Curtis featurette, and much more. The immortal original is back and now more terrifying than ever. This is the night Michael Myers comes home like you've never seen or heard it before!

Extras:


My Thoughts:

This is of course a classic horror that I must watch every year around this time.The one that started it all... and finding out from one of the featurettes on the disc... a movie that was shot very quickly and cheaply. You would never know it watching the movie. I feel they all did an awesome job on this movie! While it would be hard for me to believe... if there is any horror fan out there that never seen this movie... I highly recommend checking it out ASAP!

Rating: