Released Today --> After the Static

Finally, finally, I can’t believe it. After years of work, the horrid atrocities brought forth upon our nation by those vile merciless traitors at the United Nations will finally be brought to light. I really can’t believe it. The document I had spent so much time dissecting, organizing and writing has finally been released. 

Yes, yes, this book caused me much pain and loss as I had to endure the torturous screams and voices tormenting me every day. But, I swear, all of that will be worth it if I can enlighten one person about the carnage left in our great city. Please help spread the word about this nightmare by picking up a copy today in either paperback or digital download. 

Here is the synopsis I came up with when working with the cover designer:

Years after a strange infestation swept through Southwestern Pennsylvania and released a wave of cannibalistic fiends across the land, a tormented survivor, Malachi Isaacs, remains haunted by the depravity he witnessed during the ordeal. Overwhelmed inside a never-ending living nightmare filled with visions of bloodstained streets and the constant sounds of the voices and screams of the fallen, he sets out on a quest for discovery aimed at unmasking those responsible for unleashing the vile plague on humanity. Armed with personal memories of love and loss as well as a myriad of first-hand accounts from different victims he found during his research, Malachi tells their stories, and in time, discovers that the truth behind the undead may be worse than he ever could have fathomed.

Grab yours today! 

War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)

After taking a couple days to enjoy my trip to Columbus and the Softball World Series event, I decided to kick back tonight and review the movie I saw over the weekend. That one is the finale of the Planet of the Apes reboot, 2017s War for the Planet of the Apes.

Plot/ After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind.

I had heard a few different perspectives on this movie that covered the entire spectrum of film reviews. With that in mind, I figured that this would definitely be one of those love/hate entries that seem to be growing with every passing release. While that is fine (and somewhat expected), I am definitely at the point where seeing is believing. I absolutely loved this one and think that it is a film that does have some elements that have to sit inside your mind before the entire depth of the storyline and script hit home. The storyline is detailed with a few different subplots woven in, the performances are solid, scripting works, and the CGI is amazing. In fact, the imagery created in this one was top-notch throughout. Yes, it does have a slower pace and there are many silent moments used for effect, but those elements only add to the meaning of the film and work well for emphasis. In the end, I can see why this will be a polarizing film and a movie that will fall into the love/hate category. Sure, there could have been some more action and some of the storyline is a touch absurd, but that happens in many films. For me, this is a movie with a message and one that was a perfect capstone and one that left me wanting more. Check it out and make your own decision.

Refuge (2013)

Once I left the softball field and caught the fourth episode of Twin Peaks: The Return, it was nice to get back to finding movies that will capture my attention. The next one did just that and left me wanting more. What was it; just the 2013 post-apocalyptic tale Refuge (AKA The Mansion).

Plot/ As food and supplies dwindle and the threat of marauders becomes more apparent, the family must ultimately face the decision to either stay in hiding or go in search of an elusive mansion they've heard of - that may or may not exist.

Now that I have finished the first four episodes of Twin Peaks: The Return, it was time to get back to my usual viewing cycle and I am glad that I did. This is a film that I knew nothing about and was excited to see how this film took on the post-apocalypse environment. What I found was something that was both atmospheric and entertaining, and a film that definitely stepped outside the box when creating this world. Similar to The Walking Dead minus the zombies, but that is in no way a bad thing. The performances are solid, the storyline enthralling, the cinematography is on point, and the entire movie works. To nitpick, some of the characterizations and decisions may not be perfect, but how many are really that way. In the end, there are a ton of positives in this film and it may be one of the best low budgeted flicks out there. Yes, it does lack zombies, but it more than makes up for it with its overall quality. Check this one out; it is a great addition to the post-apocalyptic world.  

Independence Wars: Insurgence (2016)

After sitting through Shark Exorcist, it would be hard to imagine finding something that would make that movie even more appealing. Fortunately, I did and can say I found something to take my mind off it. Next up for review is the no budget Sci-Fi cheesefest, Independence Wars: Insurgence (AKA Interstellar Wars).

Plot/ Beyond the dark side of the moon, an ancient portal opens, bringing the return of a ruthless alien species to the ill-prepared planet Earth. The aliens attack with devastating destruction, bringing society quickly to its knees.

There are times where I expect to see a train wreck, and that is exactly what I got when I picked this one up at Family Video. As soon as I saw the box, I knew this would be a no-budget knock off the Independence Day franchise, but what I did not expect was how they would twist it into something filled with cliché and ludicrous moments that tried to emulate almost the entire original on multiple levels. Honestly, there were many times I could do nothing but say WOW. The performances trend from bad to worse, the scripting is all over, and the storyline is a mash-up of any idea that was already seen on the screen. Plus, throw in the abduction/zombie outbreak connection and you have a head scratcher for the ages. Yes, there was a touch of humor, but even that I believe was unintentional. In the end, this one clearly sets out to capitalize on the Independence Day wave and offers very little to the viewer. Stay Away!

Dead Within (2014)

After spending most of the weekend making last minute adjustments to and then launching Wisdom From Beyond, it was really nice to have a night where I could relax (although my latest class has started worrying me). While I understand that this will likely be my only light day with parades, meetings, a football game, and a zombie run on Saturday, at least I had some time to work on some fun stuff. As I did, I decided to watch 2014s Dead Within; a movie that definitely helped set a mood.

Plot/ Six months after the outbreak, a man and woman have survived by isolating themselves in a remote cabin. Starved for resources, they must confront the horrors that threaten them from outside and from within.

As usual, I had no idea what to expect and went into this completely blind. I am glad I did, as this was much better than I expected from reading the synopsis, and it was not the zombie flick that I figured was coming my way. More of a psychological horror than true horror flick, this one is more about atmosphere and tension than anything else. Plus, it definitely outlines how much fear plays a role in psychosis and terror. The acting is solid, the characters are believable, and the overall message can resonate with viewers. Yes, it is not a gorefest and anyone expecting a zombie movie will likely be disappointed, but that is his or her loss.  In the end, this was much better than I imagined and a movie that I am glad I watched. If you have not seen it, give it a shot!

Maggie (2015)

I know that I have been slacking, and that any followers of my blog would know that I usually take part in the Halloween countdown. Unfortunately, time has been at a premium and I have been excessively busy. But, for those who do follow me, I have a couple of projects in the works that look to be interesting. Next up for review though is an interesting film, 2015s zombie entry, Maggie.

Plot/ A teenage girl in the Midwest becomes infected by an outbreak of a disease that slowly turns the infected into cannibalistic zombies. During her transformation, her loving father stays by her side.

Not knowing anything about this film, I was hesitant seeing cover. However, after sitting back and allowing the movie to play, I found something much better than I could have ever imagined. The atmosphere was perfect for such a dark and dramatic film. Everything was on point from the tremendous cinematography, solid performances, and deeply layered storyline that should appeal to anyone as a serious immersion into love and sickness. Sure, zombie fans searching for action may feel cheated or disappointed, as this is more of a drama than horror film, but to me, that made it even better. If you have no seen it, check it out.

Antidote (2013)

I was in the mood for some zombie themed material this weekend after making a trip to Monroeville. Every time I venture near the mall that made the original Dawn of the Dead so amazing, I have to venture into the world of the undead. With that in mind, my next review takes place in the post apocalypse, 2013s Antidote.

Plot/ In a post-apocalyptic plague-ridden world, a man and woman face unimaginable horrors when he suddenly becomes infected, and the only possible cure slowly drives him mad.

Also known as Viscera, this one is a bit uneven to review. More of a horror drama centered in and around the infection during the zombie apocalypse than flat horror experience, there were some intriguing elements that make it better than its common competitors. Yet, with a short run time (76 minutes) the mixture of amazing cinematography that creates a tension filled atmosphere is lost in the flat storyline focused on the mindset of one character. Sure, the acting is decent and there are some very artistic moments, but those were nowhere near enough to save the film from the uninteresting characters and uneven pacing.  In the end, this no-budget entry had a ton of potential to create something special within the packed genre, but appeared to be caught in limbo about where it fits in. Yes, there are some entertaining moments, but not enough to make it memorable in any way.

Cabin Fever (2002)

There are only four episodes left in my Fringe marathon. I cannot wait to see how it ends, although I will say they definitely left the rails a few times. Sometimes, I enjoy venturing back in time to see how things aged That is the case this weekend, as I prepare to watch the new Cabin Fever: Patient Zero. With that in mind, I decided to revisit 2002s Cabin Fever.

Plot/ A group of five college graduates rent a cabin in the woods and begin to fall victim to a horrifying flesh-eating virus, which attracts the unwanted attention of the homicidal locals.

I remember watching this one when it came out. While I found it entertaining and interesting, it was far from the hype of the day. Now, after some time, there are definitely more positives and negatives. Looking at it now, it would have definitely fit well within the 1980s spectrum of B-Movie splatter. Eli Roth captured the 1990s perfectly, and pulled together a solid piece, with decent acting, good effects, a sound storyline, and enough blood to make a viewer smile. In the end, this movie has held up well, and has just enough dark comedic elements to make a viewer laugh. If you have not seen it, check it out! Especially, if you intend on watching Cabin Fever: Patient Zero.

Open Grave (2013)

There is nothing like taking an evening out to get the blood flowing. Last night, we went to see Hairspray at the State Theatre. That movie is one of Markie’s favorites, and with her birthday in a couple days, it made for an easy gift. That performance was awesome, and I am glad we went. Getting back to the blog, I still have a couple movies I must catch up on. The first is the 2013 mystery/thriller Open Grave.

Plot/ A man wakes up in the wilderness, in a pit full of dead bodies, with no memory and must determine if the murderer is one of the strangers who rescued him, or if he himself is the killer.

I really had no idea what to expect when I picked this up. While the premise on the description seemed interesting, there definitely appeared to be many ways that this could become cliché riddled. What I found was much better than I would have imagined, complete with solid cinematography, decent performances, and an interesting storyline that kept me engaged throughout. Sure, there may have been some repetitive moments in the middle and the ending was somewhat flat, but all in all it was one of the better movies of the type I have watched in some time.  In the end, this was an entertaining and somewhat memorable movie, and one that is much better than what its generic title would suggest. Give it a shot.

The Returned (2013)

As my sickness took hold this week, I could not believe the amount of movies that I had not had a chance to review prior to falling ill. During this vacation from the institute, I decided to venture into a few different genres in my viewing, as well as some more of my favorite no-budget indie entries. This next review is on a an interesting zombie flick from 2013, The Returned.

Plot/ In a world where a deadly zombie virus has infected some of the population, a single cure has been found. The cure, a treatment which stays the effects of the virus in its host. With injections every 36 hours, the Returned are able to live as though they were never bit, despite the virus still coursing through their veins. When it is discovered that the protein stock is running low, chaos hits the streets.

I am a huge fan of zombie films, but can honestly say that the market has become over-saturated and I have been shying away from them. This movie was different, as from the outset; it did not appear to fit inside the recent zombie trends. In fact, it definitely offered a somewhat new approach to the popular genre. This one is an entertaining thriller, with a solid storyline, outstanding cinematography, a dreary atmosphere, and some originality. Yes, the acting was average and there was not a lot of blood, guts, or violence, but that was fine for a change of pace. In the end, this was an entertaining trip into zombie lore and refreshing storyline. Sure, some will be turned off by the lack of blood and gore, but if you enjoy thought out thrillers, you should enjoy it. Give it a shot!

The Eschatrilogy: Book of the Dead (2012)

Zombie films are always fun. Unfortunately, with the rise of popularity in that genre, there are many snoozers out there. With that in mind, it is always hit and miss when I pick one up. Next up is another independent zombie flick, 2012s The Eschatrilogy: Book of the Dead.

Plot/ A dark figure appears in the night, bringing with him a virus that turns people into monsters. Hoping to gather stories to take back with him to the other side, he meets his opposite, a light figure prepared to do battle with the dark man in order to save the human race.

Zombie films have become hit and miss over the past few years. Unfortunately, with the incredible rise of the zombie genre over the past few years, too many films have saturated the market in the past decade. This no-budget entry is actually better than I expected. While it is no masterpiece, there was a lot to like in this film. While each segment is a touch uneven, there is enough storyline to keep the viewer interested. A throwback to the Romero zombie lore, there is a touch of the social overtones thrown in as well. Yes, the acting is uneven, the effects the same, and some of the scripting is a touch off, but for an ultra low budget entry, it is much better than expected. In the end, this British zombie flick may not be for everyone as the slow pacing may turn some viewers off. If you are a fan of this style, give it shot; there are a lot worse out there.

Flu (2013)

While I did take off a few days from the blog to finish some homework assignments, I did watch a few interesting movies. One of the first ones that I watched this week was the South Korean entry Flu from 2013.

Plot/ People are helpless against the airborne disease and the number of infected increases quickly, spreading chaos. As the worst-case scenario precaution, the city of half a million people, just 19 kilometers from Seoul, is about to be sealed off. The government orders a complete shutdown.

Flu is the movie I expected to see when I watched Contagion. While Contagion fell flat, Flu succeeded in creating an awesome disaster movie. The storyline works and was realistic, the performances are solid, and the underlying message was tremendous. Yes, some of the dubbed dialog at the beginning of the movie was out of place and there were some unbelievable moments, but those flaws were expected as they usually come with the territory when dealing with the translation from the foreign market. In the end, this Korean entry was not only entertaining is was everything that you would want in an epic disaster flick. If you have not seen it, give it a shot!

Germ Z (2013)

It was a nice break today, no daughters, no wife, just silence for a few hours. During that time, I was able to edit my short story for class, do my Steelers 101 stuff, and watch a couple of horror flicks. After some debate on which one I would review, I decided on the 2013 low budget flick Germ Z.

Plot/ The military's attempt to shoot down an orbiting satellite unleashes a space-borne epidemic on a remote, small town.

This low-budget indie flick is extremely uneven. While I am used to these flaws with a viewing schedule full of independents, this one was a bit different overall. This one actually had some solid acting, something many other films of its budget lack. Unfortunately, the plot was a touch stale, the pacing a touch off, and there is a lot of wasted time setting up story. On top of that, there was really nothing special to set it apart from any of the other flicks in this genre. In the end, while there were a few entertaining moments, it was not enough to make it memorable in any way. Unless you have nothing else to watch, there are better choices out there.

The Last Man on Earth (1964)

Not often does a book come around that causes a stir like Richard Matheson’s I Am Legend. Not only has it spawned three movies, its influence has forever given the world a doorway into the undead. With the first and best adaptation, the 1964 Vincent Price classic The Last Man on Earth, the modern zombie tale took root. Every film, every story, has a way of giving life, and the staying power of this tale appears ready to span generations.

While this low budget film has many drawbacks like poor sets and uneasy editing, Price’s performance is masterful. His ability to transcend the unbelievable and take the viewers on a solitary journey into the world of the undead is remarkable. Price plays Dr. Robert Morgan, the only human survivor of the devastating plague that wiped out humanity, turning the victims into vile specimens of remorse. These vampire-like creatures roam the streets by night, search to crave their desire for blood. By day, Price searches the abandoned city, destroying the infected, all the while, trying to create an antivirus from the immunity of his own elixir of life. By night, he stands in his fortified house, trapped and tortured by the sounds of their constant attack.

The introduction of the female character near the end of the film does nothing more than detract from Price, and his daily outings in search of garlic and the undead. As a viewer, I felt captivated by his grim routine, the sharpening of stakes or replacing the mirror on the front door. These endeavors left a lasting impression of the doom and despair left by a life all alone.

From this film, the messages of redemption and salvation ring true amidst the unnerving backdrop of apocalypse, much the same way these messages survive in the modern works that owe their creation to this influential, yet, often overlooked horror classic. Without it, Barbara may not lose her brother in the graveyard and Night of the Living Dead may only be a dream.