Lulu (1978)

Last night as I was waiting on The Ringmaster’s Realm to receive its millionth page view, I stumbled on a movie that I had heard about for quite some time and the influence it had on both cinema and music. In fact, one band that I listen to, The Tiger Lillies, wrote an entire album based on the original stage production that predated this film. That movie is the 1978 entry, Lulu.

Plot/ This highly stylized melodrama of the rise of a femme fatale and her fate at the hands of Jack the Ripper.

While I had heard of this film (and stage production), I had never been lucky enough to see it. Last night I was finally able to watch this one, and I am more than happy that I did. Yes, this is definitely not my usual genre; I was blown away by the depths of the film and can see how it has influenced decades of writers and filmmakers. This highly stylized does a tremendous job blending different eras of film and stage, using a solid mixture of silent film cards, soundscapes, colorization, and even opera music to create an atmosphere that is dark, entertaining, and memorable. Plus, anything that had Jack the Ripper in it cannot be bad (right?). Sure, the movie is more art house cinema than mainstream and it does not fit into any specific genre, but that adds to the overall satisfaction found when watching it. In the end, this film is unquestionably worth watching if you are willing to step outside the box and embrace the experience. This one is definitely not for everyone, but it really hit home with me. I loved it.

Suspiria (1977)

Over the past few days, I have been working another 10-minute play potentially for an event later in the year in Pittsburgh. I have been so amazed by how my first play, Not Always What It Seems, continues to grow as the performance date approaches. Personally, I think I am hooked and love the process. Getting back to the blog before finishing my next play, I decided to venture into some darkness for some inspiration. My selection was the 1977 classic Suspiria.

Plot/ A newcomer to a fancy ballet academy gradually comes to realize that the school is a front for something far more sinister and supernatural amidst a series of grisly murders.

Staying inside the 1970s can be a fun time for any horror/sci-fi fan, as there are many classics that left an imprint on the genres to choose from. Suspiria is one of those films, and one of the movies that left a lasting imprint on me when I first started watching horror in my youth. In revisiting it this week, I found what I already thought; this Dario Argento masterpiece stands the test of time. Filled with a tremendous color pallet, a perfectly unsettling soundtrack from Goblin that blends into the atmosphere like a character, decent performances, and an incredibly dark and heavy atmosphere that that is woven into every second. Yes, the plot is thin with some giant holes in the storyline and the vibrant use of colors may turn some viewers off, but those are but minor flaws inside this mesmerizing journey into the depths of horror. In the end, this trip into darkness is one of the greatest Italian horror films ever made and a classic that every horror fan should watch. Find it and check it out.

Lost Highway (1997)

Once I completed After the Static, I decided that I wanted to rework/edit Walking Before Dawn, and I finished last week. Today, I was excited when I saw the reworked cover design for that book and should see it released in the next few weeks. To go along with that excitement, I decided to watch one of my favorite Lynch films: 1997s Lost Highway.

Plot/ After a bizarre encounter at a party, a jazz saxophonist is framed for the murder of his wife and sent to prison, where he inexplicably morphs into a young mechanic and begins leading a new life.

Like many, I am excited to have Twin Peaks coming back to the television in May. David Lynch is my favorite filmmaker and I am fascinated by everything he does. To me, this is one of his best films and a great example of bringing dreams and nightmares to life within the cinematic world. This journey into surreal has an extremely layered storyline with multiple things happening throughout, the cinematography is amazing, the performances solid, there is a great soundtrack, and the overall atmosphere brings everything to life. This is truly a masterful piece of filmmaking. Yes, as with every film by Lynch, it is definitely not for everyone with a myriad of storylines, strange twists, and endings that often leave non-fans scratching their heads wondering what is taking place. In the end, this is a great film and one that should be seen. Yes, there may be some confusing moments, but it is well worth.

The Eyes of My Mother (2016)

This weekend, I had a chance to catch a few solid movies and a couple sleepers. Fortunately, I am used to this being a fan of low budget indie flicks, but it can get frustrating. The next flick up for review is one that is so much better than I could have ever expected, the 2016 indie horror flick The Eyes of My Mother.

Plot/ A young, lonely woman is consumed by her deepest and darkest desires after tragedy strikes her quiet country life.

When I stumbled upon this one at Family Video, I had no idea what to expect and was unsure whether I should pick it up or not. I am so glad that I grabbed it, as it was definitely one of the best horror films I have seen in some time. While some may not like it, as it fits more in-line with art house cinema than the current flavor of mainstream horror, it has everything a true fan could ask for. The performances were decent, the atmosphere was dark and heavy from the start plus it continued to build throughout, the cinematography was amazing, and the storyline was both quiet and disturbing. Yes, the run time was a bit too short, and the ending was somewhat abrupt, but those definitely do not hamper the overall feel of the film. In the end, this is one of the best movies I have watched in some time and a flick that should appeal to true horror fans. Check it out!

Darling (2015)

I had to take a couple days away from movies after suffering through Ghostbusters. Even my wife apologized at the end for picking it up, yes, it was that bad. Over this time, I decided to watch People vs. OJ Simpson (which is tremendous). For my next review though, I decided to watch something a little different, the 2015 horror/psychological thriller Darling.

Plot/ A lonely young woman descends into madness when she becomes the caretaker of a mysterious New York mansion that has a troubled past.

Before I dive into specifics, I have to say that this film is exactly what Hollywood should be producing instead of the overdone reboots and lame attempts at horror they are coming out with. Shot in black and white, this film has both a style and substance that pulls a viewer in. While it does build slowly, the cinematography allows the tension to build and grow throughout. The minimalist cast is tremendous and the performances fall perfectly within the storyline. Even the editing and soundtrack feel wholly immersed within the overall film. In the end, I am sure that this film will fall into the love/hate category as it may be too artsy for the hardcore gore fan. However, if you are into watching something different, especially viewing it with an open mind, than you should definitely enjoy this one. Check it out!

You Are Not Alone (2014)

As I head into September, it is nice to be able to kick back and check out some of the interesting movies that are coming out from the indie circuit. It is a good thing too, and much of Hollywood is more concerned about reboots or sequels to take a risk on something original. One movie that is definitely a different take is the 2014 slasher, You Are Not Alone?

Plot/ Natalie is a college graduate visiting her hometown over the 4th of July. The night she arrives, a sociopathic killer stalks her.

This is a movie that will cause arguments and disagreements among the viewers because of the different approach it takes with the filmmaking. A complete POV, there are some interesting elements viewing things from a potential victims perspective. Of course, this also leaves some elements outside the visual spectrum of the character and there are some missing moments that could make it even better. This one starts slow and ramps up throughout with the atmosphere building along with the action. Yes, it could have been a touch shorter (especially toward the beginning where the pace is slower), but other than that, it is an interesting and solid entry into the slasher genre. In the end, viewers will either love or hate it (like with many horror films), but if you like movies with a different perspective and can handle a show burn, give it a shot!

Dark (2015)

Now that I am finally getting back on track with things, it is nice to finally dissect some of the films tat have caught my eye recently. One such film is the 2015 psychological thriller Dark (my next review).

Plot/ A disturbed young woman must confront her worst fears when she finds herself trapped alone in a New York City loft during the 2003 blackout.

This movie is definitely one that falls into the love/hate category of filmmaking. More of a dark art house psychological thriller than horror, this flick offers some elements that make it worth watching. This one boasts some outstanding performances, a heavy atmosphere that conjures moments of dread, and an intriguing look at the spiraling psychology of being trapped in a blackout. Yes, there were times where the pace felt slow and some of the overall storyline elements were left dangling, but honestly, those add to the atmosphere and the emotional states of the main character. In the end, this one is definitely not for everyone, but it is a thought provoking thriller that is one of the better art house flicks I have seen in some time.

Deep Dark (2015)

With the natural snow fort set up around the perimeter of the house from digging out yesterday, it left me times to watch a few different movies last night. While I did not pull an all-nighter, I did squeeze in a couple from the selections I grabbed at Family Video before the blizzard hit. Next up is a movie that I truly cannot classify, the 2015 trip into the surreal Deep Dark.

Plot/ A failed sculptor discovers a strange, talking hole in the wall. It has the power to fulfill his wildest dreams...and become his worst nightmare.

Yes, that about sums up the plot for this intriguing gem. Honestly, I am still trying to figure out exactly what genre I should place this mind bender into, as it is one of the most thought-provoking and original films I have seen in some time, but it definitely does not fit squarely into any specific genre. Part fantasy, part, horror, and dare I say part comedy, this one takes you places that you will never expect, and creates an entertaining trip into the surreal. This low budget entry is better than most, featuring solid performances, strange originality, and amazing soundtrack, atmosphere, and some top-flight cinematography. Yes, there are some confusing moments and non linear actions, which could be a turnoff, and the ending may not be for everyone, but for me these only added to the impressive story that was unfolding. In the end, this was an incredible journey, and a movie that had enough strangeness to make me want more. Check this one out!

Queen of Blood (2014)

Yes, I have been struggling trying to find something decent to watch. Now, being stuck in the house for the evening as the snow falls outside from this projected blizzard, I could only hope one of my five rentals from Family Video would hit the spot. My first selection for the evening is the 2014 micro-budget vampire flick, Queen of Blood.

Plot/ Vampire Irina is reborn as a bloodthirsty plague, a force of nature whose destiny is to lay waste to a fever dream vision of the Wild West.

After suffering through some really bad low budget flicks, I was excited to find something that was both low budget and extremely different. More of a macabre art house trip into the surreal than true vampire flick, this one is definitely not for everyone. While it does feature a heavy mood, subtle pacing that allows it to grow, the storyline is not cliché riddled, and an amazing soundscape that adds some haunting elements to the atmosphere, the lack of dialog (yes – no dialog) will surely lead to most of the hatred for the film. Amazingly, the performances are decent, and the cinematography is eerie and at times thought provoking (iPhones can do some great work). Plus, any movie with Nivek Ogre from Skinny Puppy cannot be bad, can it? In the end, as a fan of art house cinema, this film struck a chord and drew me in. While I am sure that I am likely in the minority, I love this one and will definitely search for the first entry, Blood for Irina, and check that one out.

The Scribbler (2014)

The weather was incredible today, as the upper 80s with humidity was replaced by a cool 73 and comfortable breeze. I was actually able to get some fishing in. Now, I have time to relax and again do some work here on the blog! Next up for review is the 2014 Sci-Fi thriller The Scribbler.

Plot/ A young woman is facing her destructive multiple personalities using an experimental new procedure known as "The Siamese Burn."

It looks like I am continuing my streak of movies the will either fall in a love or hate category, and again, I absolutely love this one. The Scribbler is definitely a movie that sits outside the box, and is more of an experimental art house sci-fi psychological drama than thriller. Based on a graphic novel (one that I have not read), it does have some interesting moments, a solid atmosphere, outstanding pacing, and some decent performances. Unfortunately, there are some characterization issues, and some action/stunt problems that could have easily been improved with a larger budget. In the end, this one is definitely not for everyone, and as mentioned earlier will either be loved or hated. To me, it was an entertaining trip into some surrealistic world, and I loved it!

Under the Skin (2013)

After a couple days of working on some homework and finishing some writing, I decided it was time to jump back in for some reviews. While I am currently watching some alien stuff right now, it is nowhere near as surreal as the next film for review. That movie is the 2013 entry Under the Skin!

Plot/ A mysterious woman seduces lonely men in the evening hours in Scotland. Events lead her to begin a process of self-discovery.

This movie will definitely divide the audience, as some will love it and others will hate it. It is that simple of an analysis. Personally, I loved it! The surrealism of what is developing on the screen and in the story kept me guessing. However, I am a huge fan of surrealism and spent many hours dissecting the works of David Lynch. Yes, there are some pacing issues, there is some vague plot moments, and some of the acting has some uneven moments. That being said, this film is amazing, with stunning visuals and enough open space to allow your mind to fill in the blanks. In the end, this movie is definitely not for everyone and will likely go unnoticed by the masses. If you enjoy surrealism and movies that push boundaries, give it a shot!

The Lords of Salem (2012)

Friday the 13th is always a great day to watch horror flicks. While I usually try to watch some type of slasher, likely featuring Jason Voorhees or another classic serial killer, I decided to change things up this week. One reason is my frustration with the brakes on my car, which decided to go out during my 40-mile drive home, what fun! After the stressful drive, I decided to venture into something new that I have not watched yet, the 2012 Rob Zombie flick The Lords of Salem!

Plot/ Heidi, a radio DJ, is sent a box containing a record -- a "gift from the Lords." The sounds within the grooves trigger flashbacks of her town's violent past. Is Heidi going mad, or are the Lords back to take revenge on Salem, Massachusetts?

This movie will be a very polarizing flick for horror fans. Written and directed by Rob Zombie, this may be one of the most incoherent and psychedelic flicks I have seen in some time. Yet, even with the non-linear structure, there is so much to love about this tremendously visual flick.  The storyline, the soundtrack, the cast, the artistic interpretation; really everything worked. Yes, there was a lack of detailed characterization and some of the back-story was only touched on, but that does not matter. Unfortunately, this one will definitely not be for everyone, as the combination of Devil-worshiping witchcraft and art-house feel will turn some off, especially if they are searching for a gorefest. In the end, I feel this one is a movie that must be seen as it is not the typical flick created by Zombie. In fact, next to The Devils Rejects, this may be his best work. That being said, it is also understandable for people, even some Rob Zombie fans, to hate this flick; it is definitely an independent film that will divide opinions.  

Dark Watchers: The Women in Black (2012)

 

 

After watching Dogman, I wanted to watch something with a conspiracy flair. To be truthful, I have been working extremely hard researching something strange, and honestly, I cannot believe what I am uncovering. For any reader, I will get it out to the masses very soon, as I am tying up some loose ends. With my mind wrapped in this certain subject, I decided to go into a fringe area for my next entry, the 2012 Sci-Fi flick Dark Watchers: The Women in Black.

 

 

Plot/ Three UFO hunters come face to face with the Men in Black and have their life completely turned upside down.

 

 

Not being a huge Men in Black fan, I had hoped that this would be different from the mainstream incarnations of those films and yes, I knew this was going to be flawed when I picked it up, and it was. However, this was one entertaining film on certain levels. Sure, if you are a MIB fan or straight Sci-Fi fan, you will probably hate this. For me, the mixture of art-house type cinema, a strange-layered story, and a soundtrack that worked will within the confines of the scripting made it watchable. Sure, the acting is not top notch, the characterization is lacking and there are some incoherent moments with strange cinematographic choices, but to me that was fine.  In the end, some of this movie makes little to no sense, but I found it enjoyable in a weird way. This is not your typical Sci-Fi flick, as it is almost a surreal attempt at creating a supernatural / UFO driven science fiction entity. Many will not like it, as it is not straightforward, but if you like a little strangeness in an artsy form, you should check this one out.