Split Second (1992)

It was busy around my shop yesterday with 3 online sales on top of the two packages that I had to send out. Fortunately, I have the time to focus on that on days when that happens. So far today has been quieter, allowing me to start rebuilding the workshop after neglecting it during my transplant hiatus. Once I finished yesterday, I decided to dive into the world of Rutger Hauer with the 1992 flick Split Second.

Plot: In a flooded future London, Detective Harley Stone hunts a serial killer who murdered his partner, and has haunted him ever since. He soon discovers what he is hunting might not be human.

I love Rutger Hauer movies and it is still hard to fathom that he is no longer with us. Onereason that i have always enjoyed his films is that he always seems to enjoy the project he was working on. This movie again shows that side of him. While this is clearly a B-Movie and far from a classic like like Blade Runner, he played his character perfectly. This is a lower budget film that has definitely built a solid cult following with a dark gloomy post-apocalyptic atmosphere, an interesting storyline, and decent scripting. Sure, this one will never boast great effects, truly believable moments, or being a cinematic masterpiece. But, if you enjoy fun, low budget, not bad but misunderstood movies and can appreciate schlocky Sci-Fi, this movie is for you.

 

Argento's Dracula (2012)

Last night I was a bit disappointed with my movie selection. While the case sounded interesting, it did not in any way live up to the description. For tonight, I was able to pick up one that I know will have some schlock moments, the 2012 Dario Argento 3D adaptation of the Bram Stoker classic, Dracula.

Plot/ It has been 400 years since Count Dracula's beloved Dolingen De Gratz passed away, leaving the immortal bloodsucker forever abandoned. But when he discovers that local newlywed Mina Harker bears a striking resemblance, Dracula embarks on a bloody quest to reunite with his long lost love and live forever with her in hellish immortality. Only the arrival of vampire expert Abraham Van Helsing can put an end to the unholy plan.

Dario Argento's Dracula is an interesting watch for many different reasons. While, I am not sure exactly what direction the film was intended to take, it did have some entertaining moments. Almost an homage to the classic exploitation flicks of the 1970s, this one feels like it is better suited for time. This is far from Argento's best, although it does boat a sexy edge, some decent gore and an awesome soundtrack. Unfortunately, between the horrible CGI, the choppy editing, uneven performances, and slow pacing, this one leaves a lot to be desired. In the end, this unneeded adaptation of Dracula does have some fun moments that did remind me of my youth, but those are nowhere near enough for me to go out and recommend this one to everyone. Sure, there are worse versions out there, but that is expected with a classic tale. Unless you are a serious Argento fan, it may be better to just stay clear.

Hobo With A Shotgun (2011)

 

 

Last night I needed to find something mindless to provide me with some late night entertainment as I continue to wrap my mind around some of the interesting items I have been researching lately. Of course, finding something that is entertaining, mindless and tinged with horror has become a bit difficult lately. My selection for the evening, the 2011 grindhouse entry Hobo With a Shotgun!

 

 

Plot/ A homeless vigilante blows away crooked cops, pedophile Santas, and other scumbags with his trusty pump-action shotgun.

 

 

This was one of the first Grindhouse / Exploitation flicks I have watched in some time that kept me very engrossed all the way through. The storyline works and is really an offshoot of what many people would love to do when they witness atrocities taking place. Sure, maybe it is a bit extreme, but, that is what movies are for. The acting is solid, with Rutger Hauer playing the role perfectly, the cinematography is good with an honest vintage appeal, the gore and violence is everywhere and unbelievably, there is actually some character development. Yes, there are some pacing issues and some of it may be too over the top, but that does not harm the film in any way as it almost adds to the comic outtakes littered in the story. In the end, this one is a must see for fans of Hauer and this genre, it is honestly, everything you could want in a Grindhouse / Exploitation flick.