The Code 2011 (Short Film) - REVIEW

Your first date with someone is always the most important. You have to make a good impression, make sure you don’t run out of things to talk about, and most importantly watch out for zombies!

The Code begins with Chad (Daylon Walton) and Vanna (Tamara Voss) alone on a grassy hillside, talking and getting acquainted. Chad is sweet talking her about to make his move when they are interrupted by a slew of zombies. Turning around to run away they are greeted by a masked killer named Carl (Todd Terry). One of the zombies named Shaun (Taylor Brandt) tells Kyle to take off his mask that he is actually there on the wrong night. They switched weeks and it was updated in the Google calendar. Later a vampire named Neil (Ben Cody Rogers) also shows up to partake in the killing along with Bigfoot (Jason Walter Vaile). Bigfoot is sent away immediately because 4 different sets of killers is obviously too many. Shaun the zombie is forced to get out “The Code” to settle the debate on who gets to kill the couple. As he is reading they realize that the woman they want to kill is no ordinary woman but is Vanna Helsing. It is Vanna who does the slaying to everyone’s disappointment.

The Code was recently featured at the Splatterfest Festival in Houston and won 11 awards. Best Film, Best Director, Best Splatter and Audience Favorite Film just to name some. The writing in this short film is excellent. This could easily be made into a feature film. The acting is great with everyone being able to deliver. There is comedy, horror and of course splattering blood.

I thought this film was fantastic. I never had so much fun watching a film that was 6 minutes long. The delivery of the humor is what made the movie for me. Taylor Brandt did an outstanding job along with everyone else that was involved with the project. Definitely a 2 thumbs up in my book. Makes you want to ask the next woman you take on a date if she is monster slayer.

Be sure to stop by and "LIKE" The Code's Facebook page then head over and check out the full short on Funny or Die.

Reviewed by J.R. Watkins

Puppet Master: Axis of Evil 2010 - REVIEW

Everyone loves low budget cheesy horror movies right? If not, why not? You have all the elements of a great movie. They are scary (sometimes) there is comedy and average to bad acting. Charles Band always manages to include all of these factors in his movies which always makes for a good hour and a half of horror movie fun.

The year is 1939 and Andre Toulon (William Hickey) has just committed suicide. The Nazis discover this in his hotel room and rummage the room looking for his coveted puppets to find the secret of bringing the inanimate to life. The Nazis walk out of Toulon’s room and one bumps into a hotel worker by the name of Danny Coogen (Levi Fiehler). Danny is a craftsman at the hotel and was going to discuss his art with Toulon, only to find him dead. Danny finds the puppets and takes them home, but has no idea what he has involved himself in. Danny finds himself in the middle of WWII in America as Germans and Japanese conspire together to blow up the American bomb manufacturing plant that his girlfriend Beth (Jenna Gallaher) works at.

The main puppets appearing in the movie is Tunneler, Pinhead, Blade, and Jester. A new puppet is also introduced in this installment named Ninja. Being a Puppet Master movie the important acting is not done by the human cast it is the puppets which in Axis of Evil seem to steal the show (mainly because the other characters are not as likable as in the past Puppet Master installments in the series).

While Axis of Evil is in a long line of direct to video releases from Full Moon Features, it does have some merit. The movie is left wide open for part X to pick up, which is in production as we speak. I am a fan of low budget, direct to video movies, with Full Moon Features movies being my favorite of this category. Charles Band has made some masterful movies over the years, and Axis of Evil is no exception. I’m sure when a series gets to number 9 ideas begin to run out. Not the case here. The storyline is well thought out and pretty darn clever to branch off to another storyline were the first movie starts. So make some popcorn, relax and enjoy watching the Nazi’s getting whipped up on.

Reviewed by J.R. Watkins

Silent Night, Deadly Night 1984 - REVIEW

A Classic for the holiday season. One of the most controversial horror movies of the 80’s and also one of the best. While this movie lacks the big name talent it doesn’t lack a body count, nudity, and of course Santa Claus with an axe. Starring in the lead role is Robert Brian Wilson as Billy , and it’s also worth noting that the original scream queen herself Linnea Quigley makes an appearance of an unfortunate victim.

Silent Night Deadly Night starts out with Billy (Danny Wagner) in the backseat as his Mother and Father are driving through what seems to be the middle of nowhere to visit Grandpa at a nursing home. After arriving, Billy’s parents talk to the Grandpa’s doctor and leave Billy with Grandpa. He snaps out of his catatonic state revealing to Billy that if you are naughty Santa will not bring you presents but he will punish you instead, scarring Billy to his core. While driving back from the nursing home Billy’s Father stops to help a broke down motorist dressed as Santa. Santa then pulls a gun killing his father as Billy escapes the car and hides in the brush. Santa pulls Billy’s Mother from the car pins her to the ground and slits her throat.

The story then picks up years later as Billy and his Brother Ricky (Alex Burton) are in an orphanage now run by nuns which we all know are wicked and will scare the piss out of you. Billy is subject to beatings from Mother Superior (Lilyan Chauvin) for being “naughty”. While kindly Sister Margaret (Gilmer McCormick) feels he remembers his parents murder and feels the evil is still in him. Mother Superior feels Punishment is the only thing he needs.

Picking up 10 years later Billy (Robert Brian Wilson) is now 18 yrs old and with the help of Sister Margaret he obtains a job at a local toy store. Life is seeming relatively normal until he is asked to dress up as Santa for the little kids. This disturbs Billy, and as a result after the store employee Christmas party on Christmas Eve Billy starts this reign of terror to punish all the “naughty”. With a killing spree that would make Jason Voorhees proud.

Silent Night Deadly Night spawned 4 sequels while only parts 2 & 3 are direct sequels to the original story. This by far is the best of the series and will make you think twice about being naughty as we all know Santa is watching.

Reviewed by JR Watkins

Scream 4 2011 - REVIEW

Scream 4 was made in 2011 but it was almost like taking a step back in time to the 1990’s. Full of nostalgia along with the usual cast of characters. Reprising their roles from the original 3 movies are Neve Campbell as Sydney Prescott, David Arquette as Dewey Riley (now the Sheriff), and Courtney Cox as Gail Weathers – Riley.

The storyline is drawn out nicely and somewhat predictable. I mean how much more could they really do with it, but they did a good job of bringing the old characters back and introducing new ones to relate to this generation. Young stars include Lucy Hale, Britt Robertson, Hayden Panettiere, and Erik Knudsen. Most of these actors and actresses are virtually unknown but so was Neve Campbell when the first Scream came out.


Sydney Prescott now an accomplished author comes back to the town she grew up for her book tour. Low and behold the murders start again. Dewey, now the Sherriff of Woodsboro and married to Gail Weathers (looking a little rough I might add) find themselves in the middle of it again. As far as the rest of the story goes, you already know it. The phone calls start along with the murders, Sydney and her relatives are terrorized by someone with a voice box and a ghost face costume.

Like I said earlier the storyline is good and predictable at times. Nonetheless still a fun movie to sit back and enjoy. Not too scary, but enjoyable

Reviewed by JR Watkins

The Body Count Reaches World Records in Breaking Glass Pictures’ The Summer of Massacre

Philadelphia, PA — Breaking Glass Pictures/Vicious Circle Films has announced the January 10 Blu-Ray/DVD release of the horrifying gore fest The Summer of Massacre (SRP $29.99 Blu-Ray/ DVD $24.99). The Summer of Massacre sends viewers on a tour through the mind of madness, as multiple killers strive to create the biggest and bloodiest body count imaginable. Featuring 8 killers in 5 carnage-drenched stories, The Summer of Massacre lives up to its name with the highest body count ever recorded in a film by The Guinness Book of World Records.
Ungodly brutal beatings turn Chris into a fiend that sets off a bloody rampage. Beauty is truly only skin deep - Watch a young paraplegic fight for her life as her older, beautiful sister tries to murder her.

It’s been 36 years since Jesse’s biological father raped his loving mother. Now, after hiding and running their entire lives, he has found them. A group of Christian teenagers are stalked, maimed and burned by a local legend in a haunted forest.

Three legendary serial killers terrorize downtown Los Angeles and their killer plan is to go out with a real bang.

The Summer of Massacre is a 100 mph slasher ride through the sweltering heat of summer and insanity. Packed with enough gore to turn every type of stomach, The Summer of Massacre delivers a pile of corpses that The Guinness Book of World Records has awarded “biggest body count” in all of film history.
Writer-Director Joe Castro (Terror Toons 1&2, The Jackhammer Massacre) introduces another original tale -- the first ever anthology/slasher film that presents eight killers in 5 gore fest tales. The Summer of Massacre features Brinke Stevens (Slumber Party Massacre), Nick Principe (Laid to Rest), and Cleve Hall (Nightmare).

The Blu-Ray/DVD release will come loaded with numerous HD special features, including: a director’s commentary, a behind the scenes director’s diary, interviews with Brinke Stevens, cast audition tapes, and Joe Castro’s “Childhood of Massacre” a short film furthering the bloodshed.
For more information on The Summer of Massacre including interviews and final DVD copies, please contact Justin@bgpics.com
www.BreakingGlassPictures.com
www.Facebook.com/BreakingGlassPictures
http://www.twitter.com/BreakingGlassPx

All American Zombie Drugs Texas Premiere

Growing up in a home where the accomplishments you made were secondary to everything else either crushes your self esteem or creates somewhat of an overachiever. If I had to pick one, I'd say I'm the latter. Not to the point of annoyance... ok well maybe but that's not the point. The point is that it makes it hard to do things you're proud of because even if everyone else thinks it's great, to you it's just mediocre. So, when the time came to say goodbye to Alex Ballar and Beau Nelson, I felt like we had accomplished something to be proud of. I didn't have anything to do with the film so I can't take credit for the cheers and laughs it produced but I was damn proud to be a part of getting it here and having a successful run and raising money for a great charity. It was honestly a bit surreal to be surrounded by so many friends and family. I just stood back and watched it unfold and was genuinely proud to see them having such a great time.

Alright, enough of that... The guys got a great response from the film and we knocked it out of the park on donations for Operation Kindness. We had a great group of friends and family helping along the way so they of course deserve some acknowledgment... My brother John Pace for helping put it all together. Stacia Langenheder was the main contact for Operation Kindness plus she kept me level headed and calm for the most part. Wolfgang Weber and Gloria Shuri Nava (AKA Glowpinkstah) for coming all the way in from CA to be a part of the festivities. Angelika Film Center and Trinity Hall in Dallas for allowing us to use their facilities. The volunteers from Operation Kindness who brought all the beautiful animals out for us to see and interact with. Our super cool photographers Mason Pelt, William Shea and Deborah Frances. The local filmmakers who made the trip out in support Jason and Lewaine Heath, Kristen Hall, Joshua Moreno, Robert Luke and Kevin A. Green. Our esteemed emcees Ken Harrelson with AngryPuppyFilms and Devin Pike. And last but certainly not least, to Alex and Beau for taking the time out of their busy schedules and allowing us to use their film as a platform to raise awareness for Operation Kindness and give some holiday love to our fuzzy little friends. We definitely couldn't have done it without you!!!

Stay tuned and keep a look out for all the red carpet pics coming up very soon!! Thanks again to everyone who came out in support!!

Chain Letter 2010 - REVIEW

There are so many things about horror films these days that disturb me and not in a good way. I'd really like someone to explain to me why filmmakers take iconic actors, good actors, dare I say even great actors, and stick them in roles that are beneath them. Is it to bring in an older audience? Is it because they idolized them as children? Or is it because they actually watched their film and realized just how shitty it was and decided they needed something else?

A group of high school friends all receive a chain e-mail claiming that someone close to them will soon die if they fail to keep the message circulating. At first Jessie Campbell (Nikki Reed) thought it might just be a sick joke, but when her friends break the chain and people start to die, she realizes it's only a matter of time until the Chain Man comes to claim her, too.


I'm completely over the whole cliché high school cast. You know, the cast that's suppose to be in their teens but are actually laughably in their mid-twenties. It's ridiculous! Filmmakers, I'm sure there are teenagers out there who would LOVE to get their start in your below average horror film. Take the time to look for them! I suppose most of the blame here can be put on the writer. Not one single character was developed enough for an audience to want to root for them. We're introduced to them, then they're gone, killed in some violent, grotesque manner. Brad Dourif and Keith David do the best they can with the laughable script they were given. I'm not a Betsy Russell fan at all. Yes, I know she's a member of the beloved Saw franchise, I just don't think she's that great of an actress. Let the hate mail ensue... you could even send me a chain letter if you'd like. I promise I won't forward it and you can send the evil, technology hating blacksmith Michael Bailey Smith to get me.

Which brings me to my next question... what the fuck was the point of this film?? Were they trying to convey the message that those who give up their privacy in trade for the newest, most convenient technology don't deserve safety? Is that message even relevant this day in age? Ok that's two questions but don't we all know that there are giant masked men with bloody faces wrapped in gauze who are members of a technology hating cult out there waiting to get us. Jesus Christ I feel like a dumbass just typing that! If deleting every chain email or text you get is motive for a gruesome death, I'd have been dead about 1000 times over. Hmm, I wonder if that's what hell is like? Dammit, I hope I didn't just give someone an idea for another dig my eyeballs out with a spoon film. If I did, I apologize. Feel free to send me a chain letter. Heh, I think that'll be my new catch phrase whenever I say something offensive and piss someone off. (I'd be saying that A LOT!) So, if for some reason you're still not convinced to never bother turning on this shitfest, don't say I didn't warn you. Yes, the first 5 minutes or so may make you reconsider but trust me, it's all down hill from there. It's sloppily done, badly written and honestly my 6 year old could've executed it better. Given that I am the "Gore Whore", I will admit that there are some really great effects but it's still not enough to save it.

Indemnity 2010 - REVIEW

There's an old adage that says "Anything is possible if you put your mind to it." Let's explore that a bit... Is anything possible if you put your mind to it?? I suppose so. I mean even William Hung made an album, M. Night Shyamalan makes an ass load of money with every shitty movie he makes and some people actually give a shit what I have to say so hey, I guess anything really is possible.

That said, I don't know where this "anyone with a camera can be a filmmaker" thinking comes from. I guess with the advantages of social media and all that it encompasses it IS easier to get your stuff seen. But, there are clearly people making films, independently produced and studio produced, who shouldn't be. Another adage that comes to mind is "Don't quit your day job."

What I do LOVE about indie filmmakers and their use of social media and things of that nature is that eventually the cream will rise to the top. Yes, it takes a lot of hard work and it's definitely not always easy to raise the funds that are needed to get it done. So, even when I see a bad indie film, I still have a certain respect for the people that worked hard and brought that script to life. Am I contradicting myself... probably just a little but it's the same like any other would be profession. Just because you're not that great at it, doesn't mean you didn't try your hardest and in my opinion YOU DESERVE A FREAKING COOKIE! But I don't have any, come back later.

William (David Dietz) thought he’d finally found the love of his life, but something went horribly wrong. Now, he finds himself alone and on the run – pursued across the country by a woman consumed with rage, who now only wishes to see him dead. And heaven help anyone foolish enough to get in her way! Taking refuge in a rural watering hole, William finds an unlikely ally in Joe (Dan I. Radakovich), a bartender battling his own demons. But as William opens up to him over several drinks, Joe begins to wonder if the stranger is simply a victim of circumstance… or if he is hiding a much darker secret...

Dietz himself gives the best performance of the fairly green cast. Did I mention that he was also the writer, director, producer and editor on this project? No, well he was. I thought Radakovich did a pretty good job too. Occasionally his lines seemed a bit unnatural but not so much that it was distracting. For me, Crystalann wasn't very convincing. Given that she's suppose to be a scorned lover out for revenge, I expected to see one pissed off vengeful bitch. But I didn't get that. Wow, never thought I'd hear myself say someone NOT being a bitch was a bad thing.

The biggest issue I had with this film was that some of the scenes, especially the dark ones, were horribly grainy and had too much of a blue tint to them. I'm not sure how that all works as I've never had to render or edit a film, I'm sure it's not an easy task but in this case it seems quite possible it was retouched too much.

All in all, Indemnity is worth a watch and I think with the right tools Dietz can rise to the top and reach his full potential as a filmmaker. I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next.

Indemnity is available on the film's website for $1.99 and is expected to hit DVD in March 2012.

Dallas Morning News Shuns Homeless Animals

In attempt to get the word out on an upcoming charity event, we sent out multiple press releases to a number of local media outlets. The usual rigmarole is that you'll get some bites from people requesting more information or you'll just be ignored... yes, they'll ignore a charity event because let's face it, unless you have some high powered company or high profile celebrity, they just don't care. Sucks, but it's the truth. BUT, the response we got this morning from the major local newspaper in town, The Dallas Morning News, is down right shameful. The media outlet who claims in this article to focus on community, actually put us on the "REMOVE" list. Yes, you read that right... the "REMOVE" list. It's not like we were advertising for some out of country charity, all proceeds from this event will go to Operation Kindness, a LOCAL charity.

The Red Carpet Event, being hosted by yours truly on December 9th & 10th at The Angelika – Dallas - has one goal in mind – raise awareness for, and bring a little Holiday Happiness to the animals without homes during this holiday season.

The film, All American Zombie Drugs – a Comedic Social Satire, is an award winning independent film with cast members making the hike from Hollywood on their own dime in support of the cause.

BTW, I checked their entertainment headlines for the day. It seems Jamie Foxx will be in town, Justin Bieber and the cast of Glee are releasing a Christmas album, Demi Lovato gave a great performance at the Verizon Theatre and Let's Rock Elmo is a top toy. This folks......... is the news.

Dallas Morning News provides a means for their viewers to submit news topics to the editors, and rather than showing the least bit of respect by just not responding, “Remove Emails” is a clear indication that their motivation isn’t for the community of Dallas, but rather for their own well-being. So, on behalf of myself and... well... just myself, I'd like to say a great big SHAME ON YOU! Actually, I'd like to say a lot more than that but I actually care about this charity so I'll bite my tongue for once. I'm sure they won't miss my piddly little dollar and however much they charge... oh who am I kidding, I didn't read their shit anyway.

All American Zombie Drugs And Twisted Central Team Up For Operation Kindness

All American Zombie Drugs is heading to Dallas for a two-day showing at the Angelika Theater; a Twisted Central hosted event in support of the local animal shelter Operation Kindness.

All American Zombie Drugs is a hilarious comedic social satire put together by filmmakers Beau Nelson and Alex Ballar. Sebastian (Beau Nelson - The Artist, Madoff: Made Off With America) and Vinny (Wolfgang Weber) are burn-outs going nowhere in small town Suburbia, USA. Still riding the high left over from their high school days, they start a business manufacturing the only thing they have ever been good at, drugs.

With the help of Sebastian’s jealous girlfriend Kara (Susan Graham) and her rich Goth friend Melissa (Natalie Irby), our two slackers take on the local Mob, angry geek-frat-boys, Vinny’s dead brother Michael (Alex Ballar – War Wolves, Sasquatch Mountain) and Zombies.

For two days only, December 9th and 10th at 8pm, Twisted Central will be sponsoring the event at The Angelika Theater in Dallas, TX in support of North Texas’ Oldest and Largest No-Kill Animal Shelter, Operation Kindness. All proceeds go directly to support animal humanity. Operation Kindness will be in attendance with animals from the shelter prior to the showing, then join the Director, Alex Ballar, and actors Beau Nelson and Wolfgang Weber for a Q&A following the showing each night.

The film, nominated for Best Comedy, Best Cinematography and Winner of Best Art Direction at the AOF Int’l Festival has been compared to Dude Where’s My Car meets Pineapple Express with Zombies; special appearances by Brian Thomas Smith (Big Bang Theory) and David Reynolds (The Hills Have Eyes, House of 1000 Corpses).

Twisted Central (TwistedCentral.com) is run by Dallas-area local native, Tammy Dupal. Together we hope to raise awareness and help save the homeless animals in the world.

PRESS RELEASE: Penny Dreadful Unleashes Season 8

PENNY DREADFUL UNLEASHES HER ACCURSED NEW TV SEASON
Local Show Returns With New Horrors

October 19, 2011 --- Award-winning cult TV show Penny Dreadful’s Shilling Shockers continues giving monster movie fans an alternative to the drudgery of reality TV and infomercials. Penny Dreadful, the witch hostess, presents classic horror and sci-fi films on over 200 public access channels throughout New England. Shilling Shockers Season 8 hits the TV scare-waves this October and features such classic silent films as The Phantom of the Opera starring Lon Chaney, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde starring John Barrymore, and the Fritz Lang masterpiece, Metropolis.

Producer Danielle Gelehrter asserts, “People often knock public domain films, but some of the greatest motion pictures ever made are in the public domain. Many of them just happen to be silent movies. In Season 8, we’ll showcase some of the most iconic films in the history of horror, fantasy and science fiction.”

Shilling Shockers stands out from other hosted movie programs because of its detailed storyline segments that often complement the film being shown. This season, Penny travels through time with her fiendish friends (Garou the werewolf, Dr. Von Bulow the monster hunter, and madwoman Luna) in an ambitious plot that takes place over the course of several centuries and episodes. As these misadventures unfold, Penny guides viewers through the films with her usual morbid wit.

Of the more ambitious direction the show has taken over the past three years, Shilling Shockers director Rebecca Paiva explains, “We’ve been challenging ourselves more each season. A ‘hosted horror movie’ used to mean a charismatic character offering trivia and amusing anecdotes during breaks in the film. We have been expanding on this idea over the years to develop plots and backstories for our characters, and our shows often include local history, musical numbers, and complex narratives for viewers to enjoy.”

Gelerter adds, “The show now lives up to its namesakes ‘penny dreadfuls’ and ‘shilling shockers’ by featuring story arcs and ongoing chapters in a larger storyline. While we aren’t the first horror host show to attempt ongoing storylines, we have taken it pretty far in terms of merging the horror host formula with the continuing serial format.”

More information can be found at shillingshockers.com.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT PENNY DREADFUL’S SHILLING SHOCKERS

“Shilling Shockers is no fly-by-night production. Slick and professionally produced, it should be on the Sci-Fi Channel or PBS.” - David Nahmod, Scary Monsters Magazine

“Horror hostess Penny Dreadful is the one to watch!” – Dave Fuentes, Terror From Beyond the Daves

“A hot and hilarious host, and two zany sidekicks makes a cult series, and one worthy of the attention. Stop looking for a successor, Elvira; your replacements are right here.” - Felix Vasquez Jr, Cinema Crazed

“Penny has drop-dead comic timing, and the rare ability to be in character and at the same time stand back and arch an ironic eyebrow at that character. Her low, sexy, husky voice is like Bela Lugosi channeled through Greta Garbo." - Big Ole Face Full of Monster Magazine

The Shilling Shockers “scream team” are popular guests at horror conventions and frequently appear at Rock & Shock (Worcester, MA), Monster Bash (Pittsburgh, PA), WonderFest (Louisville, KY), and HorrorHound (Indianapolis, IN). Penny Dreadful won the 2007 Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Award for Favorite Active Horror Host. She won the award again in 2010, becoming the first and only horror host to win the award twice. Shilling Shockers has also sponsored fundraisers for the “Make a Wish” Foundation and the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit shillingshockers.com

PRESS RELEASE - The Night Shift Released on DVD

Fighting Owl Films is pleased to announce that the family-friendly supernatural-adventure-comedy The Night Shift received North American DVD distribution by R-Squared Films on October 25. The film has been met with critical acclaim and a positive response from fans. The Night Shift is currently available at Amazon.com Walmart and many other retailers.

“The Night Shift” is a supernatural-adventure-comedy about Rue Morgan, the undead night watchman at Pinewood Oaks Cemetery. Rue, along with his buddy Herb, a limbless corpse, spends his nights trying to keep the cemetery’s cantankerous residents in, and his days dreaming of a date with hard-nosed day-shifter, Claire. It’s an okay afterlife until a scourge of supernatural occurrences leaves Rue not only watching the cemetery, but also watching his back!

To stay abreast of the latest updates, please become a fan of Fighting Owl Films on Facebook For more information, trailers, downloads, photos and cast information, please visit www.thenightshiftmovie.com.

PRESS RELEASE - Re-Kill Exclusive Footage Now Available

Exclusive footage of RE-KILL is now available for all to see! Please click on the link below to download your own copy of the new Re-Kill Promo Piece: Download

Synopsis:

It’s been 5 years since the outbreak that wiped out 85% of the world’s population, but the war between Re-Animates (Re-Ans) and Humans wages on. Most of the major cities are still uninhabitable. Within the few surviving cities, the Re-Ans have been segregated into "zones" and are policed by the R-Division of the QUASI S.W.A.T. Unit who hunt to re-kill the Re-Ans in the hope of quelling a second outbreak.

"R-Division, Frontline" is America’s #1 TV show in this Post-Apocalyptic world. Weekly, the show follows different R-Division units on the battlefield as they work to keep America Safe and Re-An free. Jimmy, the videographer for the Outbreak Network, thought this week’s episode would be like every other. He was wrong. Through the lens of his eyes and camera, we see raw, revealed and uncut, that which could be mankind’s last day.

After Dark Films
Horrorfest - 8 Films to Die For
AfterDark Originals

Bring Me the Head of Lance Henriksen - Exclusive Clip

To celebrate Friday's eve, the producers of the upcoming mocumentary Bring Me the Head of Lance Henriksen have decided to tease us a little with an exclusive clip. It's only going to be available through Saturday so get it while you can!

Directed by Michael Worth, the film features (in no order of importance or age)
Tim Thomerson (Uncommon Valor)
Karen Kim (God's Ears)
Adrienne Barbeau (Escape From New York)
George Cheung (Rambo)
Natasha Alam (True Blood)
John Saxon (Enter the Dragon)
Cerina Vincent (Cabin Fever)
Steve Mason (Radio DJ)
Frank Cassavetes (John Q)
Martin Kove (Karate Kid)
Raffaello Degrutolla (Quantum of Solace)
Robert Patrick (Terminator 2)
Michael Worth (God's Ears)
Max Tadman (future spoiled child star)
Anya Monzikova (Zombie Apocalypse)
John Witherspoon (Wayan Brothers)
Alex Ballar (Zombie Drugs)
Marjean Holden (Mortal Kombat)
&
Lance Henriksen (Everything)

In this exclusive clip from "Bring Me the Head of Lance Henriksen", Tim Thomerson tries to arrange a meeting through his agent for the sequel to his own film from the early 1980s, Uncommon Valor. Frustrated, Tim's friend John Witherspoon gives him some advice that may be a bit unorthodox.....

Honor Among Angels - A Tribute to Neil Lisk

Ever heard me talk about Michael Worth? Of course you have. He's the visionary behind the drama God's Ears (2008) and the WWII drama Fort McCoy (2011). He's the man with the plan and the talent to make it happen. As I type, he's in the process of putting together Bring Me the Head of Lance Henriksen a "mockumentary" on ageism in Hollywood. Surely you've heard me mention it once or twice.

What you haven't heard me mention is what's missing... and that's light. A light brought to the set of several of Michael's films. That light is Neil Lisk. A brilliant cinematographer, husband, father and friend taken way before his time. Every person that I've spoken with about Neil has talked about him with such adoration and respect and love. He may not be physically here anymore but his legacy does live on. Immortalized on films like God's Ears and Fort McCoy. Just recently, one year to the day of his passing, September 22, 2011, his talent was officially recognized when he won Best Cinematography for Fort McCoy at the 27th Annual Boston Film Festival. God's Ears is not without it's own merit... This month it premieres at The Carmel Art and Film Festival in California. Just three weeks after taking home the Best Drama award from The Route 66 Film Festival.

Worth remembers Neil fondly and had this to say:

"Neil and I met back in 2003 but didn't get a chance to actually work together until 2005 when we shot Devil on the Mountain with Steven R. Monroe. He had a way of keeping the set light but remaining very focused on his job. It was a nice quality to watch balanced that way. I worked with him as a director first on God's Ears. In hindsight, the fit would have never worked any other way. He was as excited about making that movie as I was. Our last film together was Fort McCoy. The two weeks I spent with him out in Wisconsin before shooting was a good way for me to get to not only learn from him but know him as a person better. Just the two of us running all over La Crosse picking the shots, time of day, locations, etc. I don't think we ever worked so hard in our life doing that. Was a big job, but we had our personal language down so well I knew that is what made it possible to get through all that. We had a chance to work together one last time as Neil shot Steven R. Monroe's film Complacent which I worked on as an actor. That was nice since the three of us all worked together on Devil so many years before. God's Ears, Neil had always expressed to me, was one of his favorite films and the fact that we are just about to take our first film to the Carmel Art and Film Festival after his winning an award for our last film, means a lot. But can you argue its destiny? His award was announced September 22, 2011. Neil passed away 2010.... on September 22. You tell me?"

Be sure and check out the Grizzly Peak Films blog and read about Worth's experiences alongside Lisk and how his imagery and talent has inspired so many.

God’s Ears screens October 15 at 8pm at the Carmel Art and Film Festival. If you're in the area, definitely check it out. I've seen it several times now and I never tire of it. It's beautifully shot and directed with superb acting. I'm thrilled beyond belief that it's getting the recognition it deserves.

PRESS RELEASE - SEGA and After Dark Films Giveaway

SEGA® of America, Inc. and After Dark Films have partnered up for an exciting giveaway. Ten copies of the newly released game, Rise of Nightmares, for your Xbox 360® with Kinect™ is up for grabs on our Facebook page and Twitter account (one game per winner).

If you can’t wait to have the Rise of Nightmares game now, we don’t blame you!!! Please visit www.riseofnightmares.com to purchase.

RISE OF NIGHTMARES GIVEAWAY PROMOTION

This exclusive giveaway runs from Thursday, September 22nd to Wednesday, September 28th @ 11:59pm on Facebook and Twitter. Five Facebook winners and five Twitter winners will be notified via e-mail by October 5th for a total of ten winners. Here are the details:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/afterdarkfilms/

Go to our After Dark Films Facebook page, and if you haven’t done so already, be sure to “like” us. On the Rise of Nightmares tab you will find the sweepstakes rules, and the email address where to enter. On the subject line please write: Rise of Nightmares Giveaway. Five winners will be randomly selected by Oct 5th.

Twitter: www.twitter.com/afterdarkfilms

To win, first make sure you're following us on Twitter. Then, tweet a response to this question: What is your worst nightmare?

Be sure you include @afterdarkfilms and the URL www.riseofnightmares.com. Limit one (1) entry per person and/or per Twitter account. You must be following us on Twitter to win. Five winners will be randomly selected by Oct 5th. One tweet per day.

Here’s a sample tweet:

@afterdarkfilms My worst nightmare was when all my ADF movies were destroyed www.riseofnightmares.com

After Dark Originals new DVD now on sale!

After Dark Originals latest movie, 51, directed by Jason Connery and starring John Shea, Bruce Boxleitner, Jason London, Vanessa Branch and Rachel Miner, is out on DVD now. To purchase or for Digital Downloads visit: www.facebook.com/afterdarkfilms/




And don’t forget The Task and Scream of the Banshee are available On Demand or here, check your local listings:


The Task on Amazon.com








Scream of the Banshee on Amazon.com

Summer School 2006 - REVIEW

Being a horror film reviewer is pretty interesting. Some people do it as a job and some people do it as a hobby. In other words, some people get paid and I don't. Bummer? Yes. But who cares. I get to watch really cool films (sometimes) by really cool people (some of them) and I enjoy it (always). Some might say I'm overly critical but I like to think I'm just brutally honest. And why not? Why would you want someone to sugar coat it and tell you your film is good when it's clearly not? If you're opening yourself up for critique you should put on your big girl/boy pants and just take it. Good or bad.

Having spent the last three days watching crappy B grade horror films, to catch up on his website movie reviews, Charles (Simon Wallace) attempts to attend his first day of Summer School. All he wants to do is get his Physics class out of the way before starting senior year. Attending Summer School as well, by court order no less, are two of Charles' friends Dennis (Lance Hendrickson)... no, not THAT one... and Steve (Tony D. Czech). Also his crush Lindsey (Amy Cocchiarella) appears to finally be noticing him. If his teacher, Mrs. Wickham (Jennifer Prettyman), doesn't drive him insane what lurks in the school just might.

I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of talent in this film. Especially considering when you're working with a super low budget, one bad apple really can spoil the bunch. Wallace did a pretty stellar job. He was convincing and believable as a teenage horror reviewer who has seen one too many and ends up losing his grip on reality... or does he? Even the supporting cast was really good. Hendrickson and Czech banged it out as the goof ball buddies and while we're on the subject... Hendrickson's smile reminded me so much of Corey Haim in the 80's. Don't ask me why because I really couldn't tell ya. BUT, if it had been genetically possible for Corey Haim and Corey Feldman to have a love child, it would look like Hendrickson... ok, maybe that's not the best way to describe him but that really is a good thing. I thought he was a cutie! Cocchiarella went in and out of the different characters she was playing like a pro. I don't think you can really ask anything else from such a green cast.

Each 15 minute segment pays homage to a different genre of horror. You have cults, monsters, slashers, nazis, hillbillies and vampires and they hit it dead on every time. From the lighting to the mood, to the colors they used and the characters they developed, it's what horror really should be. Not only did they manage stay true to the look and feel of the different sub genres explored, but they successfully tied each segment together in a believable way all while keeping the viewer (ME) entertained. The effects were really well done. It's not one of those films where they just threw in a gut slice to get a shot of entrails falling out. They use it where it's needed and there's just enough to satisfy even a Gore Whore like myself.

In my opinion, what was done with this film was pretty phenomenal. There were six different segments of the film written and directed by a total of five different people... Ben Trandem, Hendrickson, Steven Rhoden, Troy McCall and Mike P. Nelson. You would think with so many minds working at once, things would get lost in translation and become just a mess of cluttered ideas but it never does. The writing and directing of each segment fall together so well that you'd never know they were done by different people. This kind of idea would never work in Shittywood, I mean Hollywood. I don't think it would ever be possible to get that many egos in one film and actually make it work. Not to mention the fact that the budget for this entire film was a meager $8,000.00. This is a film made BY horror fans, FOR horror fans and if you get the opportunity to watch it, do it.

PRESS RELEASE - Monstermatt's Bad Monster Jokes Vol. 1 Gets Release Date

Book publisher Pill Hill Press,is pleased to announce an official scheduled release for "Monstermatt's Bad Monster Jokes Vol.1", written by Monstermatt Patterson,
illustrated by Kyle Kaczmarczyk, with an introduction by Joe Moe and an afterword by Pat Tantalo, for their non-fiction imprint, WestNeb Books.

WestNebBooks acquired the book from it's previous publisher, during a brief and successful run,with both critics and readers alike. Some changes have been made to the book, including some added content.

"Monstermatt's Bad Monster Jokes Vol.1" is a self described collection of over 400 badjokes, rancid rhymes, putrid puns and sophomoric song parodies, with illustrations, focused on horror films, monsters, sci-fi, superheroes and some popculture for good measure.

According to Pill Hill Press and WestNeb Books editor Jessy Marie Roberts, September 21st, 2011 is the scheduled release for Volume 1. Just in time for Halloween! Volumes 2 and 3 are currently being written with no release dates yet for the follow up editions.

Monstermatt has written over one thousand bad monsterjokes and this first volume gives you a sizeable introduction to the humor that resides within. The marriage of the jokes to Kyle Kaczmarczyk's insightful illustrations are what has fans waiting for more!

What can readers expect?
Bad jokes like:

Does the 666 on Damien Thorne's scalp mean he's the Devil?

No, it's his "Credit Score"!

------

Why was The Wolfman mad at his H.M.O.?

They wouldn't pay for his "flea dip"!

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Where does H.P.Lovecraft like to shop?

Bed, Bath & "From Beyond"!

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What coffee drink does The Phantom of the Opera like?

La lalalalalala, latte!

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Sophomoric song parody lyrics like:


"My Zombie Valentine"
"Intestines"
"Monsters in the Night"

And many, many more...


According to duo the book is acting as an introduction to the horror genre for newcomers while entertaining those already familiar with it. Jokes and illustrations about Frankenstein and Dracula to jokes about "The Manitou" and "Basket Case" even "The Human Centipede" are turning many a newcomer into a horror buff. The duo has heard feedback from readers that watched "Dead Snow" and some other notable films due to the book.


The jokes and song parodies have been used on horror podcasts like:

RueMorgue Radio
Screamwave Podcast
RottingFlesh Radio
Tomb TV with Tomb Dragomir


And more. This has helped to build a growing following of Maniacs(fans).

As the Emcee of Buffalo MonsterFest 2010, Monstermatt got a chance to field test his brand of humor-a mixture of Mad Magazine/Famous Monsters/Benny Hill/Borscht Belt Comedy finding that what produced groans from the audience felt delicious to him!
With Kaczmarczyk at the drawing pad, illustrating sight gags he knew they had something "ghoul" going on that could entertain, enlighten and grow on the reader.

Some notable names from the horror genre weigh in on the book:

"I wrote this blurb so Matt would stop the Pun-ishment."

-Rodrigo Gudino, Rue Morgue Magazine

------

"I tried very hard to find anything remotely amusing or anything that might induce at least a chuckle from this 'Joke Book' but was unsuccessful. In fact it actually 'scared' me how corny it is and that is hard to do to me! At least you have the guts. Congrats!"

-Tony Moran, The Original Michael Myers (Halloween,1979)

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"You can open any page of this book, read one line and feel intense pain throughout your entire body. I'm in awe."

-Joe Bob Briggs, Drive-In Critic & Host of MonsterVision

------

Here's what the Monsters themselves are saying about the book.


"Monstermatt's jokes are Good! Bad Good!

--Frankenstein's Monster


"Monstermatt's jokes are a pain in the neck"!

--Dracula


Kyle Kaczmarczyk's illustrations had me howling!!

--The Wolfman

"As soon as we opened the book, we knew we'd have a double headache"!

--The Thing with Two Heads

Critics also had something to say about the book:

“I laughed, I groaned, I shook my head in disbelief! I highly recommend this book!”

The Monster Librarian

------

“The book is purely enjoyable."

Sonar 4 Landing Dock Reviews.

------

“You’ll go back to the beginning and start reading it again! A very enjoyable read by two rising stars!”

Pissedoffgeek.com

------

"Monstermatt delivers countless yuk-yuk monster jokes while bringing horror goodies(and music) through the grue."

The Horror Fiction Review

A perfect book for the Halloween season, Monster lover, horror curious and more!
The book will be available at major online book retailers. For more information and updates, or to keep up with Kyle, Monstermatt and PillHillPress, follow them on Twitter at:
www.Twitter.com/zombieinkcomics
www.Twitter.com/1monstermatt
www.Twitter.com/pillhillpress

PRESS RELEASE - Pre-Order Raymond Did It

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Raymond Did It

Rockford, Illinois-based Plastic Age Productions is pleased to announce that our first feature length film, Raymond Did It, is NOW AVAILABLE for preorder on DVD!

Raymond Did It is a slasher film in the tradition of Halloween and Prom Night. When twelve-year-old Bryce Rourke (Trent Harr) is accidentally killed in a playground scuffle, his friends decide to blame Bryce's developmentally delayed older brother for the accident. Raymond (Kyle Hoskins) is taken to a state hospital while the true killer walks free.

Six years later, Raymond escapes from the hospital to seek bloody revenge for his brother's death.

The UNRATED DVD will be released on November 22nd. Fans can preorder a signed copy from writer/director Travis Legge at the Aegis online store.

Signed copies ordered by October 15th will ship by Halloween!

Raymond Did It stars Lindsay Felton (VH1 Scream Queens, Caitlin's Way), Jessica Palette (Vh1 Scream Queens, Under the Raven's Wing), Elissa Dowling (Dahmer vs. Gacy, Dread), Steven Edwards, Jake Skiba, Ty Yaeger, and Kyle Hoskins as Raymond.

Written and Directed by Travis Legge

Director of Photography Tim Stotz

Edited by Robert J. Williams

For more information, trailers, clips and news, visit http://www.raymonddidit.com

You can also like Raymond Did It on Facebook and follow writer/director Travis Legge on Twitter.

PRESS RELEASE - The Dead Hour Season 2 Teaser Trailer Released

The first teaser trailer for the new season of the horror webseries "The Dead Hour" has just gone live at:



"The Dead Hour" is an indie horror anthology series filmed in Omaha, Nebraska. The show centers around a mysterious and sexy radio DJ who brings her audience dark and twisted tales each night. The first season launched last fall and webisodes can be seen exclusively at www.thedeadhour.com. Season 2 is currently in production and will feature nine new episodes that will premiere this October also exclusively on the site.

More news, updates and behind the scenes features can be found on our Facebook page at.

Daniel Iske

Director/Executive Producer

The Dead Hour

www.thedeadhour.com

The Killing Jar 2010 - REVIEW

What pulls you (as a viewer) into a film? Is it the title? The look of it? How about who directed it or stars in it? Word of mouth? For me, it's a combination of things. I don't really rely much on word of mouth because frankly, I don't trust people. I know that sounds shitty but it all boils down to opinions and unlike some people, I wanna be able to form my own :) Again, probably shitty but hey, does anyone really care? I'll answer for you... no. Back to my point, the cast of a film plays a major part in whether I choose to watch it or not. Without a solid cast, even the most well written script with the best director will suck.

Seven people are passing time one late evening at a small roadside diner in the middle of nowhere. Among them are Noreen (Amber Benson), a waitress trapped in a loveless marriage; John (Harold Perrineau), a melancholy salesman; Hank (Kevin Gage), a quiet guy with a secret; Lonnie (Lew Temple), a small-town cop; and Jimmy (Danny Trejo), the ill-tempered owner. When a radio reports the disturbing murders of a family in a nearby county, the patrons immediately suspect new arrival DOE (Michael Madsen) as the killer. A bloody confrontation ensues, and the patrons become hostages as the troubled Doe decides their fates. As secrets are revealed, the desperate survivors slowly realize that one of the hostages may be even more dangerous than their captor.

This is the kind of cast I eluded to before. I don't know about you guys but I would sit and watch Michael Madsen read the phone book for 90 minutes. He is THAT good! While we're on the subject of good, Harold Perrineau plays his part extremely well. Which isn't surprising after seeing him in Oz but honestly, I was certain Madsen would outshine him but he held his own and gave a great performance. It would take two days for me to point out each and every good point about this cast so I'll just say it like this... Benson did a bang up job as the female lead. Temple, Gage and Jake Busey rocked it out and even though he only spent 5 or so minutes on screen, Trejo was greatness!

Even with a B-movie star studded cast, I didn't have very high expectations for this film. Making the choice to watch something based solely on the who's in it can sometimes back fire and leave you wishing you could un-watch it. I mean let's face it, even the BEST actors have made some stinkers. Fairly fresh faced writer/director Mark Young pulls together quite the entertaining little film. Some of the dialogue is a bit predictable and maybe kind of cheesy in spots but it only adds to it's charm. It's very well paced and Young makes sure it stays that way throughout the entire film. I think it's fair to say it starts off a little slow. Young uses the first 20 minutes or so to build up the story then slams you with plenty of tension and violence to hold your attention for the remaining 72 minutes.

I've read some really nasty reviews about this film so I know I'm not really in the majority here but I really liked this one. It has just the right mix of everything to make it a very solid Indie film. Indie film lovers will like it for it's simplicity and artsy transitional shots. Hardcore film lovers will probably figure out the twist (I did) but again, it doesn't take away from the charm of it. It's definitely a must see for Madsen fans. I would most definitely recommend it to others and given the opportunity, I would watch it again in a second.

PRESS RELEASE - Jabberwock to Premiere on SyFy

New SyFy Saturday Original Movie Starring Michael Worth, Tahmoh Penikett & Kacey Barnfield Airing 9 pm (ET/PT) Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011
"JABBERWOCK"


American World Pictures, an L.A. based independent sales and production company, has once again teamed up with Syfy for the Syfy Saturday Original Movie “Jabberwock.” The film, written by Raul Inglis and Rafael Jordan, directed by Steven R. Monroe (“I Spit on Your Grave”) and stars Michael Worth (“God’s Ears”, "US SEALS 2", "Bring Me the Head of Lance Henriksen", "Batman Forever"), Tahmoh Penikett (“Dollhouse”) and the beautiful Kacey Barnfield (“Resident Evil: Afterlife”)



In this sci-fi/fantasy tale, “Jabberwock” chronicles the story of a nomadic and battle weary warrior (Michael Worth) who returns home to be with his estranged and more domesticated brother (Tahmoh Penikett). The two must put their different natures aside and both become soldiers to to save their people and the lovely maiden (Kacey Barnfield), after a horrific beast, the Jabberwock, is unleashed on the Kingdom.











For interviews with Michael Worth, please email management at: Mavrock1@aol.com