Where Am I?

Where am I, who, where? Paralysis takes hold of my body and I am petrified. Who would have thought, after this long journey, I would be the alien on this desolate red planet.I can only imagine what I look like to these creatures. My teeth protruding like razors from beneath this glass shroud. Of course, that may be the only thing keeping me alive, though. Maybe they believe I am the monster, and they are afraid. Good thing that they have not noticed my shaking. I would be done for.

As every minute passes, a deafening silence seals this lair. My warmth is shattered by a swirling tide of emotion. I am both astonished and horrified with this discovery. Somehow, I need to free myself though; I do not want to die here on this planet.

It is hard to concentrate, as signs of my potential demise surround me. What are those, tentacles? Eyes? Yes, they must think I am a monster. I have to escape before that the blade juts, and my body leaves crimson stains all over this lab. I do not want to die an experiment; I came here in peace.

I can see the probes attached with the bounds clasped tight on that thing in the corner. It is crazy, why have they left me alone? What do they see? Am I that hideous? Are my eyes rising like antennae? Yes, I have to escape this lab. I struggle to move, with no avail, what am I going to do?

I do not have much time left; I can see that they are starting to inch close to me. Please, do not remove my helmet; I will surely die. I try scream, but nothing comes out – I am trapped. Silence.

The cold slab chills my inner fears, but I can feel that something is different. My helmet, God, no, not my helmet. Wait, it cannot be. This cannot be real. I can breathe. I am alive, the atmosphere, no, this is not happening. Forbidden stories lost in the ancient wars? Truths banished to hide our real ancestors? The harsh truth shakes me to my core! Lies, everything we have been told are lies.

“Hello, my friend?” I hear from the depths of this lab, “We have waited for centuries for you to come rescue us.”

Like a proud parent, a tall grey stands above me, his gaze eying every inch of my naked flesh. A lone tear cascades from his scaled flesh. In his eyes I see hope; in his voice I hear pleasure.

“At last, we can come home.”

The Lighthouse Keeper (2016)

After taking last night away from the blog to nap before driving to North Carolina for the Easter holiday, I figured I would focus tonight’s entry on the last film I watched during the week. That movie is the 2016 Edgar Allan Poe-inspired The Lighthouse Keeper.

Plot/ Marooned on a remote peninsula and haunted by frightening specters, a young man must confront the grotesque denizens of the night, or follow the Lighthouse Keeper's cryptic warning to, always keep a light burning!

There are times when I want to relax and watch the classic horror tales of the past. Filmmaking was so different in the past eras, with the atmosphere and storylines taking center stage instead of the forced effects and gore. That is exactly what I found with this one. Loosely based on the short story by Edgar Allan Poe, this one harkens back to a different time in cinema. While it is not perfect, the storyline is interesting, there are some atmospheric moments, and the direction/cinematography was solid. Yes, some of the performances were flat and uneven, and the ending felt a touch abrupt and forced, but those flaws are minor and do not bring down the film. In the end, if you are a fan of Poe or enjoy movies that make you think instead of relying on effects and gore for entertainment values, this one is for you. Check it out!

The Bye Bye Man (2017)

Last night, I made a trip to Family Video to see what had come out recently. What I found was a wide selection of new horror flicks on the shelves. To start off these new choices, I decided on the 2017 horror/thriller The Bye Bye Man.

Plot/ When three college students move into an old house off campus, they unwittingly unleash a supernatural entity known as The Bye Bye Man, who comes to prey upon them once they discover his name. The friends must try to save each other, all the while keeping The Bye Bye Man's existence a secret to save others from the same deadly fate.

This one definitely has a unique approach to the slasher genre and a ton of potential. While I would class it as more of a thriller than a straight horror flick, there are just enough elements to keep it above water. The storyline was interesting, the casting decent, and the cinematography and filming were solid. Yes, some of the performances are uneven, there are minimal scares, and some of the scriptings felt rushed or disjointed, but those parts are easily overlooked. In the end, this movie will not be for everyone, but it is a decent PG-13 entry that makes for a great scary movie night with the kids.

The Garden - Short Story

I see you from a distance and I cannot touch. Oh, how I want to; I crave the life force and nectar you harbor. Your pale skin; your sparkling eyes, my pulse quickens as I stare through the shrouded veil, I can almost taste you. You are close, as I can feel your warmth. Yet, as I reach for you, the emptiness consumes me. You have vanished and my longing continues.

Everyday, it is the same ritual. I sneak upon the luscious garden toward your window. Your stunning beauty transcending the loneliness I feel inside this desolate heart. My hideous appearance drowning any chance I have at capturing a soul as pure as you. Still, I stare into your room, wondering what you are, your thoughts, feelings, and desires fill my void with meaning; fantasizing about a life inside your arms. Again, you vanish. Where have you gone?

Saddened, I return to my lair and stare into my mirror; thoughts, feelings, desires, all betray my eyes. You reach for me, and I return your touch, navigating my way through your warmth. My thoughts mirror yours. Our hearts; souls are the same, our lives entwined. Your commands are my actions and your desires, my eternal light. My destiny lies in your arms.

“No, this cannot be! I am not worthy of your untainted flesh!”

Sorrow engulfs my world, as I know there is only one truth, a fate prophesized at birth. These horns, ears, and my despicable countenance; my divine curse brought forth by evil, but, I long for something more; something real. This is not who I am, not who I will be. I want to love, I want to hold you and consummate all of my dreams. Unfortunately, my mind is opened to my bleak reality; fear and decay creep into my thoughts. I am lost, my existence full of isolation, and I know I will never have you.

I return to your precious garden, today will be the day we finally meet. My arms will soothe your fears and our lives will become one. Again, I reach for you; your soft skin tempting the dark cravings I harbor in my bowels. Your body quivers, as my sharp fingers gently descend toward your depths. I can feel your pulse race as the blood begins to flow down your neck.

After what seems like all perpetuity, our eyes meet. The flames of desire, of passion, blaze fiercely inside your sanctuary. The sanguine pain grasps consumes every inch, ecstasy is near. We are one. Our bodies combined as we drink from the consecrated chalice; dine on the sacred elixir; our secret union at hand, transporting us to forbidden realms of pleasure and pain. You have saved me from perpetual damnation and emptiness. I love you.

Unfortunately, I cannot stay with you my dear, for no one will understand, or accept, our stained visage. But, I will return, and again our souls combine, and our hearts will be as one.

Sunless Sky - Flash Fiction

Something is clearly wrong; it has been weeks since the sun graced our skies. The once majestic kingdom in the clouds replaced by binding darkness, a forbidden black shroud drowning our life force. Yet, the heat inside this masked reality continues to rise. How is this heat is so overwhelming? Could Hell really be any worse?

I have no idea. All I know is that this is killing me, driving me to place even blacker then the dismay that extinguished our once beautiful skies. I know that I cannot endure this world much longer. I gasp for air, but the putrid pong of decay that surrounds me suffocates my every step. The blood, the bile, the intestines; it is clear that the sun was not enough for the evil that has risen from the pit. 

In the distance, I hear a call; the fallen ones again rise to prey on those of us that remain. The dark angel grows strong, and his reapers worse. His blade of sorrow steals another life and my faith shudders at his might. My soul mourns, as the merciless truth of my destiny becomes clear.

Thunder echoes in the distance. Dammit, they stole the lightning as well. I look back toward the Nephilim, as scarlet flows from the tears I cry. I can feel them burn through my entrails; my fate lay ahead. I can see my salvation and redemption inside the murky depths of his eyes. 

Alone, I bare my soul to the reaper. My pure heart shudders, as the tears cascade like a waterfall from my sunken eyes. I can feel warmth of the inferno radiate from his blade; my end is indeed at hand. The flaming gates open as his blade penetrates my soul. 

And the reaper laughs at my despair…

The Beast Must Die (1974)

Sometimes I like to stem into something different when I sit back to watch a flick. Last night was one of those nights, as I wanted something that was both fun and interesting. After some thought, I decided on the 1974 werewolf flick The Beast Must Die.

Plot/ Eight people have been invited to an island estate for the weekend. One of them is a werewolf. Can you guess which one?

I love mysteries and this one was a bit of a surprise. Plus, this is definitely a different take for a werewolf movie being both entertaining and intriguing. The concept was tremendous (yes, somewhat clichéd and familiar in other genres), but it works well as a whodunit. Led by Peter Cushing, the cast is awesome and the scripting works in their favor with a great combination of action and schlocky dialog. On top of that, the decision on how to create the werewolf is perfect for the lower budget, the pacing flows well, and there are just enough twists to make it fun. Sure, the “Werewolf Break” does not really fit (not enough clues) and the some of the baseline theories do not make sense, but those are easy to overlook. In the end, this werewolf flick from Amicus is a fun trip into the genre and a great way to pass some time. Give it a shot if you are in the mood for something a little different.

The Birds (12 Peers Theater)

When you hear the title The Birds, the classic film by famed director Alfred Hitchcock has to come to mind. Based on the short story by Daphne du Maurier the classic tale has been modernized by an adaptation by Conor McPherson. While this modern entry does differ from the source, it is still an interesting and unsettling preview into the spiraling mental state within an apocalyptic state.

When I heard that local stage production company 12 Peers Theater was performing their interpretation of this classic tale, I was sold. I had to see it. While I knew the minimalist cast would create a story much different than the Hitchcock classic, the overall tension and atmosphere of seclusion and isolation from the turmoil outside would have to exist; and it did.

While nothing remotely similar to the Hitchcock classic on first glance, there is a darkness that exists in the modern Hell. Directed for the stage by Vince Ventura, the three-person cast of Gayle Pazerski (Diane), Nick Mitchell (Nat) and Sara Ashley Fisher (Julia) have tremendous chemistry in this dialog driven trip into the dark world of the end times (#birdpocalypse).

Backed by a tremendous soundscape and an impressive combination of setting and lighting, the play holds your attention throughout, and pulls you into the tumultuous relationships within a sanctuary full of fear, love, and jealousy. In the end, this 12 Peers Theater production is well worth the trip into Pittsburgh to see; and with only four shows remaining (Thursday, August 18 through Sunday, August 21), time is running out. If interested, the production can be seen at the Studio Theatre at the University of Pittsburgh Cathedral of Learning (in the basement) and more information can be found at their website (http://www.12peerstheater.org). If like me, you are a fan of The Birds, this is a must see.

The Adventures of Edgar the Eyeball - Diary Entry - Chapter 1

On my trip home from Orlando and my graduation, I discovered a strange stowaway tagging along as we hung out in the Mardi Gras Arcade in our short stop in Daytona Beach. While this strange one-eyed mutant is cute, he seems to be caught up in some ridiculous situations. Hell, I even had to save him from King Kong at South of the Border. Now, I am his protector, as we will work together to find his destiny. That is if he can stay out of trouble. 

It is strange though. As I tried to communicate with this critter I have named Edgar, he could never answer my questions. You know the ones, where are you from? How did you get here? Did you come in peace? However, Edgar did provide me with a crinkled sheet of paper from his diary. What is said was truly horrifying. 

Edgars’ Diary 

My life felt so empty. I could not face another day; my thoughts longed for another time, another place. I wanted to explore so much, and in turn feel a love banished centuries ago inside my unforgiving world. I could no longer hide my feelings; the pain was too much to take. So, I had to escape from my realm in search of freedom and happiness. 

That is how I arrived on your province, this hollow world called Earth. Unfortunately, I was trapped by the watchmen, the greedy malcontents that long ago infiltrated your world masquerading as humans. Yes, they do hide their reptilian blood well, but the eyes; those eyes will always give them away. 

I must survive this Hell, Deep inside; I know I am here for a reason, although the reason remains hidden. Strange, this destiny was prophesied by my birth by the sacred oracle within the volcanic shrine of Zarare. I thought it was a joke; I could not fathom such a destiny. Now, I am here, trapped inside this glass void waiting for a savior. Help me. 

Stay tuned for more adventures of Edgar the Eyeball as he tries to find his true destiny and save the world.

Nightbreed (1990)

After suffering through a miserable low budget flick last night, I wanted something different tonight that could help make-up for yesterdays wasted time. After some debate with myself, I decided to venture into the mind of one of my favorites, Clive Barker, and his 1990 cult classic Nightbreed.

Plot/ A troubled young man is drawn to a mythical place called Midian where a variety of monsters are hiding from humanity.

I know this may sound off, especially being a huge fan of Clive Barker, But I had not ventured into the world of Nightbreed until tonight. What I found was something more than I could have imagined. Like some of Barker’s other worlds, this one was fascinating, with outstanding make-up and effects, beautiful sets and design, some solid performances (especially David Cronenberg), and a tremendously dark and heavy atmospheric tone. Yes, some of the characterizations were uneven and there were many non-linear aspects that the passive viewer may find overwhelming, but those did nothing to take away from the overall feel and message of the film. In the end, if you have not seen it, what are you waiting for? This is a dark and beautiful flick that must be seen. Of course, it is not for everyone, but if you are a horror fan like me, you should LOVE it.

Sanguine Tears, Scarlet Dreams - A Short Story

After many months of facing the harsh reality trapped within their relationship, Edgar knew the finality of the situation. He could no longer hide from the inevitable. He must face the harsh truth that rested inside the decaying tomb outside Fordham. Although he hated what he was about to undertake, he knew that he must say goodbye to his dearest friend, lovely Virginia. 

Four o’clock, Edgar arrived at the entrance to the cemetery. The frigid winds howling off Long Island Sound sent a chill down his spine. He could feel the emptiness in his soul grow larger as he glanced beyond the grey willows toward the Valentine family crypt in the far corner of the graveyard. He shuddered to think about what lay before him. He loved Virginia with all his heart and her loss was slowly destroying him. 

As he crept toward the tomb, vibrant Virginia raced through his mind. He remembered how 11 years earlier an ancestral storm was spawned by his desire to wed his cousin. True, it was a forbidden love frowned upon by society, but only young Virginia made him feel complete. Her beauty, even at the mere age of 13 when they married was beyond compare, with her pale skin and dark hair flowing down the subtle curves along her cheeks. However, the comfort and understanding of her words made all of the outrage worthwhile. Many could not understand this relationship, as the specter of their shared bloodline blinded reality. For Edgar, who never consummated this relationship with his bride, the blood was not thicker than their bond. 

A life so pure, he thought, how could this damn disease ravage her so? Looking back, it seemed like yesterday when the small trickle of blood flowed from her mouth at the piano. Now, she was but a shell of herself, damaged by the years of consumption that ravaged her frail body. Edgar, too, had suffered with her, turning to cognac and whisky to drown his sorrow as his wife withered away. Not only did her ailment cause mental fatigue, his physical appearance deteriorated, his once flowing hair was now unkempt, his face sunken and scarred from many a fall in a drunken stupor. 

Finally, upon the steps to the vault, Edgar shuttered to face what was inside. Could her week inside this dismal tomb decay her beyond recognition? After a nip of cognac to ease his nerves, he opened the chamber. The crisp aroma of lily overwhelmed him. At that exact moment, his broken heart raced as he saw her lying in wait; her pallid skin stained by the lasting remnants of the sanguine tears, her pale blue eyes reflecting the candlelight. This could not be the end; God would not take her purity. 

He entered, with only the chorus of heartbeats breaking through the silence. Slowly be reached down with his rough hands and caressed her soft cheek. “I am here my love,” he whispered as her lifeless eyes looked through him, piercing his soul. Gently Edgar untied the bow on her flowing lace gown, something he longed to do for so long, but could never muster the courage. Soon, he thought, our bond will be complete. 

The shadows fell across Virginia’s striking face. Edgar thought his heart would stop, his life gasping for one last breath. “Darkness should never touch flesh so pure, consume a life as yet untainted, or steal a soul so loved,” he said as he slowly navigated his way along her slip. He could feel Virginia’s pale eyes guide him through her taut labyrinth. With every shiver, he felt an exciting a new sensation and every curve on her body ignited another flame in his heart. Edgar’s screams echoed throughout the abyss, yet Virginia’s stillness remained steadfast. At last, after 11 long years, their bodies were finally combined as one. 

Edgar fell beside his motionless love, “Darling Virginia, how did we reach this point, why did it have to be you?” His muted beauty spoke no words, as the trail of scarlet tears rained down to her breasts. Edgar realized what he had done. He did not bid farewell to his darling Virginia; he defiled her. He became one of the monsters from his stories, he was destined to survive as the tortured soul buried in the wall. 

Quickly he rose, horrified by what he saw lying before him, his mind petrified. Her magnificence was tainted by an unholy lust. Edgar knew he could not face the world again, he must send himself to Hell. Edgar reached for the candelabra and placed it beneath the vast drapes. His eyes pooled and his heart swelled with regret, as he embraced Virginia for one last time, “I am so sorry my love-- Goodbye!”

Edgar awoke in a sweat, his writing desk cluttered with days of incoherent thoughts, insane prose and empty halves of cognac. “Virginia, why did you leave me, we were meant to be,” he said staring at an empty page, “Damn you Death! You have destroyed all that I am, all that I ever wanted!”

Clarity returned, his quill alive. The words began to flow; It was many and many a year ago, In a kingdom by the sea, That a maiden there lived whom you may know, By the name of Annabel Lee…

Wisdom From Beyond - A Lovecraft Themed Transmedia Journey

Uncle, what did you do? Did you accidently summon Nyarlathotep, the faithful servant of Azathoth, who rose to power during the reign of the evil pharaoh Nephren-Ka? In my research into this mysterious stone, that is the only thing that would make sense when comparing the information to your somewhat incoherent ramblings in your journals. Yes, you had to have awakened the Crawling Chaos, but how?

This is an opening paragraph on one of the blog posts from Wisdom From Beyond. Wisdom From Beyond was an extremely detailed transmedia project that my group built for class and has created a tremendous journey into the world of H.P. Lovecraft. This immersive, interactive, transmedia story based on H.P. Lovecraft’s “The Haunter of the Dark,” was designed and produced by students of Full Sail University's Creative Writing for Entertainment BFA program and I am proud to say that I was the project manager for this story.

If you are unfamiliar with transmedia writing, that is OK. It is a rather new literary form that sets out to create Alternative Reality Games (ARGs), using multiple storytelling techniques and platforms. In our case, we used Blogger, Pinterest, YouTube, Twitter, Google+, and Gmail to accomplish our goal. In the end, I feel that we created something that is creative, entertaining, modern, and most importantly, stays true to the source mythos. Honestly, if you are a fan of Lovecraft, you should enjoy it.

I would love to hear your feedback on the project, especially the content. I honestly have fallen in love with this type of storytelling and am considering venturing into my own project. If you want to get started follow this link to the first YouTube video and follow the prompts left inside the videos, descriptions, and blog.

And Jack Says...

Visual writing is one area that I would love to expand on. This is my first attempt at visual poetry -created with the poem And the Walls Came and a great piece of artwork entitled Jack by Nerva1.

The Babadook (2014)

Yes, it has been a few days since I ventured into the blog, mostly because I have been stuck at either the softball field or doing homework in my Developing New Worlds class. Of course, I am usually enjoying some type of movie though, as I cannot function unless my mind is transported elsewhere. One movie that I watched that made a tremendous impact was the 2014 Australian horror flick, The Babadook.

Plot/ A single mother, plagued by the violent death of her husband, battles with her son's fear of a monster lurking in the house, but soon discovers a sinister presence all around her.

It has been some time since I watched a movie and wanted it to keep going after it ended. That was the case with The Babadook. While the premise is subtle, the overall storyline is tremendous and effectively draws the viewer in and makes them want more. The atmosphere is amazing, the characterizations outstanding, the emotional performances over-the-top yet believable and the stylized images and sound effects work perfectly within the story. This movie is truly that good. Yes, the accents may turn some people off, but if that is the case, you should not be watching a foreign film to begin with. In the end, this is one of the best horror films to come out in some time and is an entertaining trip into an emotional tale of terror. If you have not seen it, find it, and watch it!

The Fly (1958)

I have been stuck inside a very retro mood lately. Between listening to classic folk music on my drives and watching 1950s low budget Sci-Fi, I have been living in a nostalgic dream. Next up for review is another movie from that era, the 1959 Vincent Price classic, The Fly.

Plot/ A scientist has a horrific accident when he tries to use his newly invented teleportation device.

What can one say, The Fly is a classic, and one of the best insect flicks of the 1950s. Starring Vincent Price, this movie has absolutely zero scientific merit, but it is definitely one of the most entertaining and memorable of the genre. The atmosphere is amazing, the performances solid, and the special effects were quite impressive for the day. Most importantly, the ending left a lasting impression on the viewer, and one that will be etched into their minds. In the end, this movie is a true classic and a movie that should be seen. Yes, the David Cronenberg remake was good, but this classic is better.

Stalking the Stalker - Flash Fiction

This was a piece that I did from a visual prompt. The picture reminded me of something that I would have seen in The Twilight Zone or Night Gallery. Any or all feedback is much appreciated.

I am not a paranoid person, but something is not right with what is happening to me. At first, I thought it was my imagination, there is no way this car is following me. After all, a car cannot have a mind of its own; it must have a driver. Yet, there was something weird about that car. Everywhere I turned, the sleek black sedan was there. It stared at me, it watched me, and it would not leave me alone. I am not sure when this began. Honestly, I have tried but cannot specifically remember the first time we crossed paths. While I could be wrong, as I usually do not pay attention to parking lots, I believe it was Sunday sitting outside my favorite antique store.

That day began as any other. I ventured inside to see if I could find something new for my cabinet of curiosities. Between the bones, fetuses, taxidermy oddities, wet specimens and Victorian era medical devices, it is quite the extensive collection. Unfortunately, it is becoming harder to find items that catch my eye. That was until I saw the shrunken head. There it sat inside a small bell jar in all its shriveled glory. The dark, manicured skin, the braided beard, hair, and mustache; the head was something out of a museum. Although the eyes were sewn shut, I felt it peer into both my mind and my soul.

When I looked at it, I could hear a deep voice cry out in pain; he wanted me to care for him. There was no doubt. I needed it, and at $250, it fit into my budget. I scurried to the counter, paid for the artifact, and headed for the door. That is when I stumbled upon the car.

Yes, that was it. The car was parked right next to me in the private lot to the right of the store. We were the only cars in the lot, yet no driver was around. This was peculiar, as there were no other customers in the store. I did not care; I did not have time, I had to find a location for my new discovery. That night, I did not notice anything strange, and I definitely did not see the car again. At least, I did not think so.

After that point, I could not rid myself of the sedan. On Monday, the car crept into my world. During lunch at Burger King, it was there. At the library picking up some research material, it was there. Everywhere I turned, it seemed to follow. The driverless vehicle would be there sitting idly almost waiting for me to depart. I would never see it on the road, yet it always appeared.

Early on, I found it somewhat laughable; there was no way someone would find me interesting enough to stalk. Could they, I was just an electronics instructor and writer. No way, this had to be my imagination playing tricks on me. It had to be. Unfortunately, the situation got worse. On Tuesday, the same thing occurred. Wednesday, check! Thursday, you bet. By Friday, it was getting old; the damn car was in front of my house all night. Incredibly, there was still no sign of a driver. I know because I started stalking the car. Yet, it was always just there. I would scurry into my house and quickly turn to the window, nothing. The car would seem to just appear in that split second where I was not paying attention. This bizarre situation had become both mentally and physically unnerving, and had to end.

When I woke on Sunday, there it sat. The sun reflecting off the blue starburst paint, the redline tires almost glistening in the brightness, but still, no one was in the car. Hell, in a week, I never witnessed anyone even approach the car. That had to change. After some thought, I decided to confront the vehicle. I know it may sound a touch extreme or insane, but I had to do it. This car was driving me crazy. I could not sleep, I could not eat, and all I could do was stare out the window hoping to see who (or what) was torturing me. It was a simple plan, step outside, and take a closer look. I had to see what was inside; hopefully find a clue to what was going on.

At four o’clock, I stepped toward the sidewalk and made my way towards my nightmare. Everything was quiet, as a dull murmur overtook my head; my eyes fixated on the car. I was captivated by its beauty, yet shook from the overwhelming sense of dread. I could hear my pulse echo through the emptiness. One more step and I was there. I hoped it would just one more step toward an answer.

“Hey, get away from my car,” a woman’s voice said, “I don’t know who you are, just get away, or I’ll call the cops!”

Startled by the person’s voice, I felt an inexplicable weight lifting from my shoulders. At that point, I realized something was amiss; that the stunning dark sedan that had been haunting me had disappeared; replaced on the street by a red sports car. That’s impossible, I thought as I looked up and down the street with no sign of the vehicle. What had happened? Where did that car go? This cannot be happening to me, I am not crazy.

Frustrated and confused by the situation, I collapsed to the ground staring with my eyes fixated on the coupe. Crack! A muffled sound came from my pocket as I hit the grass. What was that? I thought. 

“Damn, not the head! That car made me forget about the head. I’m sorry,” I said looking at the shattered bell jar. Unexpectedly, the sound of laughter erupted in my mind, and once again, those deep voices echoed through my soul, “Please, take care of me... and my caretakers car.”

Predestination (2014)

After being blown away by Nightcrawler, I figured that it would be hard to find something that I would enjoy even more in the next few weeks. Fortunately, I was wrong about that and found another movie that may be even better: 2014s Predestination.

Plot/ On his final assignment, a time traveling, Temporal Agent must come to terms with life and pursue the one criminal that has eluded him throughout time.

Sometimes, movies fly under the RADAR and are truly underappreciated. That definitely is the case with Predestination, as it was one of the best Sci-Fi films to come out in some time. This movie was not only smart; it carried a tremendous grittiness that enhanced the overall dark yet moving storyline. The characters were developed, the performances solid (especially Sarah Snook), the cinematography outstanding, and most of the entire story was detailed and thought provoking. Yes, the pacing was done with some odd time signatures that will cause some questions during the initial moments, but those questions should be answered as the movie plays out. In the end, this was an entertaining and strange journey into an interesting world and it is a movie that must be seen. If you have not seen it, find it and watch it!

Stonehearst Asylum (2014)

After finally finishing all of the available episodes of Agents of SHIELD, I was excited to find something a touch different when I made my latest trip to Family Video. Being a fan of Edgar Allan Poe, I love finding adaptations of his works and grab them whenever I can. That made today’s trip awesome when I found the 2014 entry Stonehearst Asylum (AKA Eliza Graves).

Plot/ A recent medical school grad who takes a position at a mental institution soon finds himself taken with one of his colleagues - though he has no initial idea of a recent, horrifying staffing change.

Being a huge fan of Poe, I had to grab Stonehearst Asylum as soon as I saw it on the shelf. Yes, some of the recent adaptations (even loose ones) have been uneven; I always hold out hope. This movie is one of the better efforts, pulling together the amazing cast into a tight/coherent gothic thriller. The atmosphere works in a manner that keeps the movie suspenseful and dark, the cinematography is sharp, and there are enough intrigue to keep you entertained. Yes, there is a lack of overall humor like in the source story, but that definitely is a small flaw that does not impact the final product. In the end, this is a solid (albeit loose) Poe adaptation and an entertaining flick. If you are like me and love his writing, give it a shot. It is a movie that should be seen.

The Thing on the Doorstep (2014)

After putting off my planned trip into the strange world of H.P. Lovecraft, last night I made the journey into his mythos. Fortunately, I was able to find something that filled that desire. After a quick search at Family Video, I decided upon the 2014 low budget entry The Thing on the Doorstep.

Plot/ Daniel Upton's relationship with his friend Edward Derby is abruptly changed after Edward becomes romantically involved with Asenath Waite, a hypnotist with an odd reputation. As Edward's behavior becomes more erratic and events unexplainable, Daniel investigates. Is it madness...or something far more terrifying?

I love H.P. Lovecraft and definitely enjoy when I find movies that stick close to the vest and look at the core of his work. Unfortunately, these are not always easy to find. In this case, the no budget indie flick takes on that exact ideology, and crafts a solid debut. Yes, it does have some flaws relying too much on the uneven performances and narration, but those are minor issues in an entertaining film. The cinematography is sound throughout; there is an eerie atmosphere, and enough of Lovecrafts’ warped sense of being flows through (amazing considering this is one of his least known works from Weird Tales in 1937). In the end, this may not be a perfect movie, but it is a realistic modern adaptation of Lovecrafts’ work that should satisfy those who appreciate the literary works of the master. Not for everyone as it relies on story more than gore, this low budget gem should be seen.

Mercy (2014)

As I continue to struggle through the final days of this miserable college math class, I decided that it was time to throw on something supernatural to assist in my learning. After some debate, I decided on the 2014 independent entry Mercy.  

Plot/ Two unruly boys move with their mom to grandma’s old farmhouse to care for her and discover that grandma has a pact with ancient beings that bestow on her special powers. Now they must survive the terrifying presence in the farmhouse.

I often cringe when I see something listed as a Stephen King adaptation, as usually they can never live up to the source material. Unfortunately, while this movie is not as bad as some, it definitely struggled to capture the atmosphere and creepiness of the original short story Gramma. While there were some positives in the film within the extremely short run time, with a decent cast, some solid performances, and the pace kept things interesting. However, even with those positives, the lack of atmosphere and some strange cinematic decisions with the lighting brought this down to average at best. In the end, this one again failed to match the potential of the sources King work, and becomes another in a long list of movies that fail to capture the magic. Is it terrible? No, but it is not great either. If you love Stephen King, give it a shot, if not, there are better options out there.