Hell House llc Origins: Carmichael Manor (2023)

I've taken a few days away from n the movies after going to see the final films in the Hampton Roads 48 Hour Short Film contest.  There were actually a few that could make cool features.  But, now time to get back at it.  Today,  I did kick back and watch something interesting the 2023 entry Hell House llc Origins: Carmichael Manor.

Plot: A group of cold case investigators stay at the Carmichael Manor. After four nights, the group was never heard from again. What is discovered on their footage is even more disturbing than anything found on the Hell House tapes.

When I saw this was coming out,  I wasn't sure what to expect.  I really liked the first one,  but the two sequels left a lot to be desired and did not match the overall promise of the first one.  Fortunately, this one is so much better than this two entries.  This one definitely delivers where this cime up short with an interesting story,  some tensiom and atmosphere, and a few decent scares.  Of course,  the characters and performances are uneven and there were some head scratching moments,  but it was a lot better than the other sequels. It may not be as good as the original,  but this one does a good job of building into the lore and keeping it entertaining. 

Consecration (2023)

After spending a large portion of the day doing hardworking yesterday,  I decided that it was time to take a break and catch up on some movie watching.  While searching the different streaming services,  I settled on this 2023 entry,  Consecration.

Plot: After the suspicious death of her brother, a priest, Grace travels to the Mount Saviour Convent in Scotland to find out what really happened. Once there, she uncovers murder, sacrilege and a disturbing truth about her own past.

Not knowing anything about this,  I took the chance because of the religious look.  For some reason,  I have been caught up in that genre for a few days.  This one was definitely better that i would have expected. The cinematography creates a tremendously dark and brooding atmosphere. That matches the heavy themes in the storyline.  This is backed by some outstanding performances and solid production qualities.  This one won't be for everyone though,  especially those looking for a quick jump scare.  There are some pacing elements (especially in the first portion of the film) and there really isn't anything that hasn't been seen before,  but those aspects don't destroy the movie in any way.  Yes,  if isn't perfect,  but if you are looking for an atmospheric film with some intriguing scenery give this one a shot.  

Cthulhu (2007)

After spending the day Saturday attempting to get some work done and failing miserably, I decided that I wanted to dive into some of the works of H.P. Lovecraft. After a search of my streaming services, I was a bit shocked at the lack of material available from this horror master. After some time, I settled on the 2007 indie entry Cthulhu. 

Plot/ A Seattle history professor, drawn back to his estranged family on the Oregon coast to execute his late mother's estate, is reacquainted with his best friend from childhood, with whom he has a long-awaited tryst. Caught in an accelerating series of events, he discovers aspects of his father's New Age cult which take on a dangerous and apocalyptic significance. 

When I saw this one streaming on Amazon Prime, I was excited. I was in the perfect mood for some Lovecraft and hoped this would hit the spot. Unfortunately, this one never came together in a way to quench my desire for something from the Cthulhu Mythos. While not terrible, featuring a few moments of creepiness, some bizarre moments that worked well, and a story that made the perfect vehicle to bring this to life, still, the movie never took off or came together in a way that made it entertaining. The performances were uneven, as was the cinematography, the political and sexual overtones weighted too heavily inside the story, and the scripting left the atmosphere behind. It really played more like a flawed comedy than a horror movie. In the end, if you are a fan of Lovecraft and anything from the Cthulhu Mythos, stay away. I know there are much better choices out there.

Salem - Season Three (2016)

With this being eight days into NaNoWriMo, I am spending time breaking down my own characters in my book. While my project is supernatural in nature, it is not a straight supernatural entry. With that in mind, I decided to binge watch the final season of Salem over the past couple days.

Plot/ The witches’ plan to remake the New World by bringing the Devil to earth and making Salem his capital, but the Devil is a liar, and instead of a New World free from murderous Puritan hypocrisy, his own plan will bring nothing but death and slavery with the ultimate aim of leading humanity to destroy itself. And there’s only one person on earth who can beat the devil — the very witch that birthed him, his mother, Mary Sibley — the only problem is she’s dead. Or is she?

In some ways, I am upset that I finished watching Salem and really think that I may have to break down and purchase it. In many ways, Season Three takes the series to an entirely different arena featuring an insane storyline the delved in many different and darker directions. In fact, the writers seemed to embrace ever taboo that was thought of and decided to bring them to life on the screen. In many ways, this season came across as a modern, almost more action-packed version of something that would have been perfected by Argento or Bava during their artistic peak. The cinematography, performances, practical special effects, and storyline are amazing, and the character development is brought to life perfectly by the cast (Marilyn Manson was crazy) and honestly, it was a shame to see the series end. Yes, there are still some dialog issues that felt out of place and too modern for the period and there were a few disjointed moments that felt out of place, but those issues are extremely minor and did not impact the overall feel of the series in any way. In the end, this was a series that left the air too soon and one that should be seen (especially now that it is available on the different streaming services). If you have finished Stranger Things and are in the mood for a darker more adult period piece, give this series a shot. You may be like me and become a huge fan.

Annabelle: Creation (2017)

With the weekend winding down and the days of NaNoWriMo piling up, it is hard to find time to watch and review movies that will not in any way influence my Man of the Cloth project. After some searching earlier at Family Video, I decided on the 2017 entry Annabelle: Creation.

Plot/ 12 years after the tragic death of their little girl, a dollmaker and his wife welcome a nun and several girls from a shuttered orphanage into their home, where they soon become the target of the dollmaker’s possessed creation, Annabelle.

This is one movie where I am so happy to have waited until it came to DVD to watch and luckily, for me, we have a Family Video so I didn’t have to even pay full price. This one was a tough watch, as the amount of jump scares and clichéd moments worked to fracture what came across as something extremely disjointed, to begin with. The doll was creepy, and that may be the only real positive that came across from this movie. The storyline was uneven, the actions in the performances were laughable (although Anthony LaPaglia was not bad), and the cinematography, pacing and the overall feel was extremely predictable and nonsensical. It is really that bad. In the end, this movie is one that I believe we could have done without. There is really nothing new inside and it clearly came across as a money grab and rushed production.

Salem - Season Two (2015)

For some reason, I have been trapped in a Saw mood lately and while I could continue with a review of Saw V, I decided that I needed to go a different direction tonight and catch up on something I should have written about a few days ago. The next review is for Salem Season Two from 2015.

Plot/ the consequences of the Grand Rite are apparent: Salem is afflicted by a terrible plague and a witch war is on the horizon. Mary is reunited with her son; trying to seize power, Mercy kills the Elders, effectively starting an open fight with the remaining witches; Anne is learning about her powers while keeping them secret; John's fate is revealed; Cotton deals with his failures and his father's death. But Salem's biggest threat comes in the form of the Countess an original witch that is trying to raise the devil. It's soon revealed that the Dark Lord himself possesses Mary’s son, and this starts a full-scale witch war that could destroy the town—and the entire world.

After thoroughly enjoying season one of Salem, it was a no-brainer to dive back into it during the month of October with season 2. What I found when venturing into this is something that pushed the limits even further than it did during the first season. While this fictional tale was interesting and at times somewhat over-the-top, the quality and depth of the storyline made it interesting and the subject matter was perfect for viewers like me that love dark and violent period pieces that are loosely connected to real events. This one definitely continued with the action, the torture, the blood, and the explicit sexual tension that made the first installments adult friendly. In this case, the added details to the storyline with the Grand Rite and the Dark Lord may turn some viewers off, but for me, this was the perfect step that the series should take. As in season one, the characters are interesting and the cast is solid, the cinematography and effects are tremendous, and the action and atmosphere do a great job working in tandem to create an entertaining show. Unfortunately, the series is still littered with historical inaccuracies and the performances are still a touch uneven, and the dialog isn’t where it should be for a period piece. Fortunately, these flaws are easily overlooked and do little to bring the series down. In the end, while this one may not be on the top of the list for some people, it is an entertaining and dark journey into a different time and a series that talks about some subjects that should be talked about. In many ways, the social commentary sprinkled into the storyline speaks volumes about where we are in society today, and that alone makes it a must-see.

An American Werewolf in London (1981)

Having returned from a wet but amazing trip to Haunted Hills Estates, it was time to cocoon myself in a blanket and review the movie I decided on after watching Jigsaw last night. That movie was the 1981 classic An American Werewolf in London.  

Plot/ Two American college students on a walking tour of Britain are attacked by a werewolf that none of the locals will admit exists.

Even after all these years, this movie remains one of the best werewolf films ever made. Complete with a great mixture of comedy, drama, gore, and horror, everything seems to fall perfectly into place. The storyline is both entertaining and interesting, the performances are outstanding, the dialog and scripting work and the special effects are tremendous, as they still run circles around much of the subpar work that is seen in films today. Most importantly, between the soundtrack and the masterful work of director John Landis, everything works to create a dark but uplifting atmosphere in a film that is an easy watch and one that has more than stood the test of time. Sure, there are some predictable elements and the movie feels a touch short, but those are very small flaws within a movie that is a must-see for all horror fans. In the end, this is a classic take on the werewolf genre and a movie that should continue to be the standard that all others in the genus should strive to achieve. If you have not seen it, you are missing out. Find it and check it out.

The Mummy (1932)

After watching an entire series last night in Lore, I decided that I wanted to go back to the roots of horror for my next movie and review. My viewing choice for the evening is the 1932 Universal Studios classic The Mummy.

Plot/ In 1921 a field expedition in Egypt discovers the mummy of ancient Egyptian prince Im-Ho-Tep, who was condemned and buried alive for sacrilege. Also found in the tomb is the Scroll of Thoth, which can bring the dead back to life. One night a young member of the expedition reads the Scroll aloud, and then goes insane, realizing that he has brought Im-Ho-Tep back to life. Ten years later, disguised as a modern Egyptian, the mummy attempts to reunite with his lost love, an ancient princess who has been reincarnated into a beautiful young woman.

People who suffered through the latest reboot of The Mummy should definitely head over to Shudder and revisit the 1932 Universal Studios classic to burn the modern monstrosity out of their minds. While this is not a straight horror film with it actually feeling more like a gothic romance/drama only in a different location, it does have all the elements needed to make it an entertaining and memorable trip into darkness. This movie screams atmosphere and creates a dreamlike state that takes the viewer to a different place. The performances are outstanding, especially horror icon Boris Karloff in one of his most memorable characters, what little make-up effects that are used are tremendous, and the cinematography, setting, and the set pieces are remarkable. Of course, many viewers that watch this will not like the slower pace and lack of action, but those elements just help bring the story to life in a way that ties the entire movie together. In the end, this may be one of the most subdued horror films from that early 1930s Universal catalog, but it is still an amazing watch. If you have not seen it, there is no way you can call yourself a true horror fan. Head over to Shudder and watch it. It is a must see.

And Now the Screaming Starts! (1973)

Last night I decided to continue venturing down that retro path and turned to Shudder to find something interesting. After some debate, I decided on the 1973 gothic ghost story And Now the Screaming Starts!

Plot/ England, 1795: the young Catherine has just married Charles Fengriffen and moves into his castle. She becomes the victim of an old curse that lays on the family. On her wedding night, she is raped by a ghost and gets pregnant.

This was a different film than I expected and I was actually quite entertained by the odd elements that were added in. From Amicus Studios, this gothic ghost story offers an interesting (albeit somewhat clichéd) storyline that was brought to life by an outstanding cast led by Peter Cushing. The performances were solid, the cinematography and setting were captivating, the atmosphere was heavy, and the visuals and color pallet used was amazing. Yes, the special effects were lacking in quality and the end game was a bit drawn out, but those are small flaws in what is definitely an underrated film in the studios' catalog. In the end, while there were some contradictory moments in the storyline and some of the low budget flaws rise up, for the most part, this one delivers. Yes, it is not perfect, but it is an entertaining movie and one that can be found on Shudder for free if you are in the mood for a classic gothic ghost story.

Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979)

Having spent last night with Chucky, I decided that I wanted something completely different tonight. After searching through Shudder, I went for a classic vampire tale in 1979s vampire entry Nosferatu the Vampyre.

Plot/ Count Dracula moves from Transylvania to Wismar, spreading the Black Plague across the land. Only a woman pure of heart can bring an end to his reign of horror.

Wanting a classic vampire tale, this movie seemed like the perfect selection for the evening. Having not seen it in some time, I had forgotten how beautiful this movie was and how well it captured the great story of Dracula. Werner Herzog did a great job at creating a modern version of Murnau's classic Nosferatu, while adding some almost human elements to the Dracula character. The performances are outstanding, the cinematography and visuals are amazing, and there is a subtle calm that ties everything together. Unfortunately, the splendor captured inside those elements do take a small toll on the overall feel of the movie as this one does seem to lack the darker atmosphere of the original, the pacing is slow, and there really are no creepy or frightening moments. Fortunately, when you submerge yourself into the film, those flaws are easily overlooked. In the end, this is a different film than most Dracula interpretations because it shows sadness in the character that usually doesn’t exist. It may not be for everyone, but it is definitely worth watching and an underrated film in Dracula lore.

Salem - Season One (2014)

Period pieces have always been one of the things that I like to take in when attempting to find something to watch. After spending multiple hours in the colonial period at Friendship Hill, I decided to change some things up today. It has been a while since I have reviewed any type of true television show. But now, after finishing season one of Salem (2014), I figured I would give it a shot once again.

Plot/ Season One follows Mary Sibley, a witch conspiring with other witches to bring forth the Grand Rite, as she brings forth hysteria among the Puritans of Salem. Her former flame, John Alden, returns after years of absence, complicating her wicked plan.

While I did bypass this when it first premiered, after finishing season one, I have to ask myself why. For me, this interesting mixture of historical fact and pure fiction has turned out to be one of the most entertaining series that I have watched in some time and I look forward to starting season two later tonight. For fans of dark and violent shows on television, this one should sit near the top of your list. Between the action scenes, witch tortures, and executions, there is enough blood to go around. Couple that with some gratuitous sexual situations, it is clear that this a show for adults. The characters are interesting, the storyline may not be authentic, but it is intriguing, and the cinematography and effects are outstanding. Yes, there are a ton of historical inaccuracies with both the setting and the characters, the performances are uneven, and the dialog lacks an authentic time period feel, but those did not hurt the overall feel of season one.

For some, this show will not resonate in the same manner as it has with me, and that is understandable. However, the network and writers should be applauded for the way they take on the subject manner without fearing a backlash. Sure, season one was not perfect, but it definitely should have opened some eyes on the hypocritical nature of some religious practices that still take place in the world today. If you have not got into this one, give it a shot; just don’t expect to find a watered-down trip back to Salem.  

Manhattan Baby (1982)

After spending last night with Lucio Fulci, I decided to go back into his mind for an encore. After some debate, I decided on the 1982 entry Manhattan Baby.

Plot/ An archaeologist opens an Egyptian tomb and accidentally releases an evil spirit. His young daughter becomes possessed by the freed entity and upon arrival back in New York the gory murders begin.

While this isn’t a great movie or even anything close to Lucio Fulci's best work, there is something in this one that always makes me want to see more. Not a typical Fulci gorefest, this one is definitely closer to an atmospheric thriller than true horror film. As usual, it does suffer from some of the typical issues that seem to permeate most films by Fulci with slower pacing, underdeveloped characterizations, and uneven performances. Plus, the movie does feel a bit dated, but that too should be expected with it being filmed in the early 1980s. Fortunately, if you are a fan of his work, you should already be expecting this. This one does offer an interesting (sure, unbelievable) storyline, a tremendously dark and heavy atmosphere, and a perfectly matched gothic soundtrack that helps build the tension. In the end, this one may not be his best work, but it is still an entertaining (and polarizing) journey into the world of Fulci. If you have not seen it, you should give it a shot.

7 Witches (2017)

Last night, not only did I miss one of the best episodes of Twin Peaks to grace the screen, I was away from the computer and could not keep my posting streak. I did get to see an awesome concert with The Regrettes in a very intimate setting at Mr. Smalls Funhouse so that at least made the evening entertaining. To catch up today, I decided to finish with the 2017 independent entry 7 Witches.

Plot/ As their big day approaches Cate and Cody should be celebrating, they've got their family with them, they've rented an island for the big day, but unbeknownst to them, their wedding falls on the day when a 100-year-old curse comes to fruition. Instead of celebrating, they find themselves fighting for their lives as a coven of witches risen for revenge.

I knew nothing about this one when I picked it up at Family Video, and because of that, I was thoroughly satisfied with what I found. While there were some clichéd moments toward the end of the film and the idea may not have been overly original, it was an entertaining film that came across as a mix of art house cinema and a larger budgeted suspense flick. The characters were interesting, the cinematography was atmospheric and solid, and the pacing was fitting for the short run time. Yes, there are the clichés and the short run time will definitely turn some people away, but those elements are minor flaws in this intriguing flick. In the end, this one has just enough of a horror vibe to be somewhat satisfying. Yes, it is not the most original film out there, but it is better than many entries in the low budget arena. Give it a shot.

The Undying Monster (1942)

While my plans for this first weekend of vacation are still a bit up in the air, I decided that I would watch some classic horror in case that I don’t make it to Monster Bash. My selection was the 1942 werewolf flick The Undying Monster.

Plot/ A legendary monster threatens surviving members of an aristocratic English family when they venture out on chilly, foggy nights.

Honestly, there is nothing better than the B-movies of the early sci-fi and horror that came out during the cinema’s infancy and this is a great example of that. This 1942 werewolf entry has all the elements that made those films popular. With its dark and heavy atmosphere, some solid performances, and a storyline that does a great job mixing mystery into the werewolf genre. Yes, some of the dialog is a bit off, the characterizations are uneven, and there are some of the typical flaws that plague movies from that era, but those are easily overlooked. In the end, this is one of the better B-class werewolf films and a movie that those that enjoy classic horror/mystery should enjoy. Check it out!