The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

After checking out The Ring last night, I decided to let Jolene pick the next movie that would be reviewed. Predictably, she chose her favorite movie for our viewing pleasure tonight, 1975s The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Plot/ A newly engaged couple have a breakdown in an isolated area and must pay a call to the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-N-Furter.

Before I begin, I know that The Rocky Horror Picture Show can’t be given its just due unless you watch one of the midnight shows that make it an amazing journey into the surreal. I love watching it in that setting and can’t wait to go into the next show (hopefully, next week for my birthday). However, this film can be enjoyed at home, if you watch it with and open mind and a sense of humor. We try to watch it at least once every couple of months, and after that atrocity that was remade for television, I had to definitely wash that out of my mind before enjoying another show. As a movie, it is mixed with good and bad, but overall it is extremely entertaining. The minimalist cast is tremendous, the musical aspects are catchy and perfect for the show, and the script is spot on. Yes, the special effects are uneven and the production qualities in some ways are lacking, but that is to be expected in a low budget B-Movie. In the end, I am amazed at the amount of people that have never seen this film either at home or live on a Saturday night. This is one of the first cult classics and a film that should be watched and enjoyed for generations. I just hope no one tries to remake it again; it can’t be done!

Sleepaway Camp (1983)

There is nothing like sitting back and catching a classic from my youth. Having grown up in the 1980s, there are plenty of movies and genres to choose from. Of course, nothing truly compares to the slasher film, and the way they made you think twice about camp. One of the most memorable films of that genre is the 1983 cult classic Sleepaway Camp.

Plot/ After a horrible boating accident kills her family, Angela, a shy and sullen young girl, moves in with her eccentric aunt Martha, alongside her protective cousin Ricky. One summer, Martha sends the kids to Camp Arawak. Soon after their arrival, a series of bizarre and increasingly violent accidents begins to claim the lives of various campers.

There is nothing like the slasher craze of the 1980s, and Sleepaway Camp is a must see for fans of the low budget 80s slasher. While not the best movie out there, it is a great example of what made the era of big boxes VHS so fun. This one offers very little gore, a somewhat predictable storyline, and a ton of dated costuming and dialog, but those flaws are easily forgettable with the twist ending that made this one a cult favorite. There are some interesting kills and although some of the performances are uneven, it does capture the 80s in all its glory (it definitely takes me back to my youth). In the end, this movie may not reach the level of the classics from the Friday the 13th franchise, but the ending alone makes it a film that should be listed in slasher canon. If you have not seen it, 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.

Frankenhooker (1990)

Now that I finally feel like me again with the sickness apparently gone and my weekly homework complete, it is time to settle down and focus on catching up on some of the films I have watched this week. One of the more entertaining and fun was one I had not seen in over a decade, the 1990 schlockfest Frankenhooker.

Plot/ A medical student sets out to recreate his decapitated fiancée by building her a new body made of Manhattan Street hookers.

If you are a fan of cheesy 1980s horror, you have definitely seen something from the mind of Frank Henenlotter (Basket Case). While none of these films will ever win an Academy Award, they will definitely live on in many circles as cult classics. This is definitely the case with Frankenhooker! Honestly, one look at the title should be enough to make anyone realize exactly what they are in for: classic low budget schlock at its finest. Yes, the effects range from laughable to bad, the acting is all over, and you must suspend the reality for a while, but that should have been expected. What you do have is an interesting and imaginative storyline mixed with a great balance of comedy and gore, something that many more refined (or popular) horror comedies lack. In the end, this movie is an entertaining romp through B-movie horror. If you love this type of film and have not seen it, check it out! For fans of schlock cinema, give it a shot!

Earthling (2010)

I am all for some strange Sci-Fi or Horror. Personally, there is nothing better than a trip into the surreal abyss of confusion. To me, I love it when I have to pay attention and think throughout a movie. One movie that made me think is next up for review, the 2010 Sci-Fi flick Earthling.

Plot/ After a mysterious atmospheric event, small groups of people wake up to realize that their entire lives have been a lie. They are in fact aliens disguised as humans. Now they have to make a choice. Live amongst men, or try to find a way back home

In many ways, this is a difficult movie to review. As a low budget flick, there are aspects that really work, especially the opening sequences that did a great job at capturing the viewers’ attention. Unfortunately, there are also some issues that hurt the overall feel. Earthling features some outstanding performances and has an amazing soundtrack, but it also has an irregular storyline that can lead one into confusion. Personally, I loved the disjointed feel and was quite entertained by the originality. However, I am also a huge fan of David Lynch and love surrealistic and strange journeys into the nether. In the end, this low budget entry is definitely not for everyone and will leave many lost and confused. If, like me, you enjoy that, give this one a shot. If you do not enjoy confusion, stay away.

Shivers (1975)

Over the past few days, I have watched a wide variety of stuff. Sometimes, I get in these moods, and cannot figure out exactly what I am in the mood for. This has definitely been one of those periods. Of course, it is likely the math, I hate math. One of the more interesting films I have watched over this period is the 1975 exploitation horror flick Shivers (AKA They Came From Within); the movie that in many ways created a cinematic legend.

Plot/ The residents of a suburban high-rise apartment building are being infected by a strain of parasites that turn them into mindless, sex-crazed fiends out to infect others by the slightest sexual contact.

Shivers was an interesting film with a fascinating mixture of sexual indulgence and zombielike overtones. Truly, it was a film that fit in the middle of the low budget exploitation movement of the time ad should be viewed as such. Amazingly, writer /director David Cronenberg knew little about the filmmaking profession, yet created a piece that demonstrated the skills (and thematic elements) that would make him a household name. The film is definitely uneven, with some so-so acting, incoherent moments, and low budget quality, but that does not matter when you immerse yourself into the storyline and remember that this movie predated the anti-sex craze and viral epidemics that plagued the world in the late 1970s to early 1980s. In the end, this early Cronenberg piece may not be perfect, but it is one of the more influential films in his catalog. Not for everyone, so be warned, but it is a movie that should be seen.

Here Comes the Devil (2012)

As I sit here watching The Exorcist with the twins, I figured it was time to pull together my next review. While the next movie on my list will never rise to the status of the classic I am watching, it was a solid entry. That film is the 2012 import, Here Comes the Devil.

Plot/ A married couple lose their children while on a family trip near some caves in Tijuana. The kids eventually reappear without explanation, but it becomes clear that they are not who they used to be, that something terrifying has changed them.

This movie definitely took me back toward the exploitation flicks of my youth. While subtitled, I found it extremely entertaining and easy to follow with a straightforward storyline that really worked. There was a lot to like featuring a slow-building atmosphere, violence, nudity, blood, and sexual tension. The acting was solid, the storyline worked and there were some unsettling moments. Yes, there were some plot holes, weird camera angles, and uneven audio (when paying attention to the subtitles), but for a low budget entry, that was expected. In the end, this occult / satanic themed movie is definitely not for everyone with its graphic sex and violence. However, if you can handle subtitles and enjoy a slow-burn throwback toward 1970s exploitation, give it a shot.

The ABCs of Death (2012)

As 2014 inches closer, it is nice to sit back and enjoy some relaxation now that my day at work is done. Of course, the SAW marathon I am watching helps. Jigsaw and the SAW franchise is one of my favorites. Right now, I am almost done with SAW IV. However, that is not my review for my evening. In fact, the may some days away as I have watched quite a few movies this week. Next up is the 2012 collection of shorts, The ABCs of Death. 

Plot/ A 26-chapter anthology that showcases death in all its vicious wonder and brutal beauty.

It is hard to write a review for this movie as it offers such a diverse blend of horror. More a collection of shorts instead of an  anthology, The ABC's of Death offers sch a wide variety of death, that it would be hard to explain the different dynamics. This ambitious project worked for me, as the varying styles added some dimensions you never see. With that, each vary in time, pace and depravity. Some are repulsive, some are hilarious and some will make you wonder what you just watched. Of course, this is not for everyone. There is graphic violence, nudity, multiple languages, furries, claymation, and even cartoons. However, each work well in the unfiltered manner put forth. X is for XXL and A is for Apocalypse are memorable, as is L is for Libido, but others miss the mark for me. In the end, this was an extremely entertaining flick and one that I may watch again on short notice. It may be shocking to some, but for others it will be a blast. Check it out. 

Virgin Witch (1972)

Thursday night I was able to catch up on some of my Netflix queue that I have neglected with the daughters being awake at all hours. First it was Devil's Pass, then my next selection took me back into the 1970s and the great era of exploitation flicks. My second selection for the evening was Virgin Witch from 1972. 

Plot/ Christine gets her big chance at modelling when she applies at Sybil Waite's agency. Together with Christine's sister Betty they go to a castle for the weekend for a photo shoot. Sybil has lured Christine to the castle for more than modelling: she is recruiting a virgin for induction into a witch's coven. 

Let me start by saying, if you are not a fan of 1970s exploitation flicks or you have a problem with excessive nudity, stay away. This is nowhere close to a horror / mystery / thriller, it is an exploitation flick from the word go. Far from perfect, this one does have some interesting occult aspects and the ceremonial scenes were pretty good. It also has a tremendous amout of nudity, so if you are into that, this one is for you. Sure, the plot was sporadic and thin, the acting is decent, and there was little atmosphere with minimal witchcraft aspects sprikled in. Truly, it was about the nudity. In the end, this is a British exploitation flick filled with nude women. If that sounds interesting, give it a shot. I found it entertaining. 

American Mary (2012)

Having a long night in the field last night doing some Bigfoot research made for a somewhat lazy day. Of course, the 90-degree temperatures may have played a role in that as well. As my day wore on, I decided it was time to take some time and find something different to watch. In the end, I decided to check out American Mary from the Twisted Twins, the Soska Sisters.

Plot/ The story follows medical student, Mary Mason, as she becomes increasingly broke and disenchanted with the surgical world she once admired. The allure of easy money sends Mary into the world of underground surgeries which ends up leaving more marks on her than her so called 'freakish' clientele.

Going in, I was not quite sure what to expect with this flick, but I am glad I grabbed it. American Mary is an interesting flick that seems to cross through different genres while delivering an entertaining trip. While it is not quite a normal horror flick, there is a lot to like. The acting was solid, the story dark, and the production values and cinematography top notch. Overall, the movie is as advertised. The only flaw is the ending, which is just average in comparison to the rest of the flick. In the end, the Soska Sisters created a flick with non-mainstream appeal and the potential rise to cult status. Check it out!

Slaughter Creek (2011)

 

 

It is time for me to continue my horror movie marathon for the 2012 Countdown to Halloween. After yesterdays trip into Bucks County Pennsylvania, I decided to head to Texas for tonight’s entry. Of course, there are a lot of dark subjects and great movies based in this state, but what I found was something decently obscure. From Midnight Releasing the movie is Slaughter Creek from 2011/2012.

 

 

Plot/ A film crew follows a young girl with aspirations of becoming a successful actress in Hollywood. Failing to find work, she arrives in Austin, Texas to star in what she believes is a soft-core porn film. After discovering the screenplay, the film crew realizes that this is no ordinary film and it could lead to horrific consequences for this naive young girl.

 

 

As any horror fan knows, indie films can run the gambit from outstanding to putrid. Fortunately, this one is closer to outstanding and an enjoyable watch. Primarily a dark drama, there is some blood, violence and taboo elements (originally titled Snuff) that really work. Sure, it is not perfect, but the storyline, the acting, cinematography, and sound quality are all far above the typical low budget stereotype. On the downside, some of the characters were blah, and offered very little. On top of that, this flick seemed like there was a lot more potential within the story that could have been brought to life, which would have taken it up a notch higher.  In the end, this extremely entertaining venture into a dark world, and movie was worth watching. It is not for everyone but if you like dark dramas, check it out.

 

 

Devil Seed (2012)

After suffering through Hell’s Gate, watching the paint dry on a project would be better. With that in mind, I finally sat down and watched the movie I rented on that night, Devil Seed.

Plot/ Alex, a returning college student, is suffering with an unseen entity; one that forces her to inexplicably happen to her, scratches, visions and ultimately rape. While her friends are worried, there is no way to truly understand what is happening to her.

Having this movie follow up the miserable entry Hell’s Gate, it already started on the right foot. Fortunately, this one actually had some things to like. The atmosphere was decent, cinematography and direction on spot, solid storyline and good acting. It even started really well by not going down cliché lane. Unfortunately, they could not stay away from cliché, and in the end, that choice brought the movie down. In the end, this is a pretty good low budget demonic possession-type flick, even with the cliché. I would not break the bank on it, but I would check it out if you had a chance.

Sacred Flesh (2000)

  

After spending yesterday dissecting the kitchen, I decided to take a break today and relax with some Netflix. I have been spending time engrossed in the original Kolchak: The Night Stalker, I decided to venture into something else. My choice for the morning was some nunsploitation in 2000s Sacred Flesh.

Plot/ A number of people who have devoted their lives to God find themselves undone by desires of the flesh in this unusual erotic drama. The abbess of a convent invites the leader of a group of monks to visit her and offer needed advice. A wave of sexual temptation has begun to flood the convent, with the Mother Superior aving bizarre sexual fantasies about Mary Magdalene, and many of the other nuns suddenly attracted to each other.

This was an interesting flick and one that helped pass 73 minutes with ease. Now, I am not saying this was a good flick by any means, and honestly, if you are not a huge fan of nunsploitation, you should not even give this one a second glance. This semi-porn plays on the look of the nuns and the erotic moments they create and nothing else. The plot is incoherent; the script ridiculous, there is little to no atmosphere and the timeframe does not match the storyline.  In fact, other than some appealing sex scenes and a large amount of nude nuns, there is really nothing here. In the end, this piece is for fans of nunsploitation, if you do not know what that is, just stay far away.