tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34182060218848939062024-03-05T08:27:41.373-08:00The Horror HotelObservations on all things Horror, Sci-fi and FantasyKyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.comBlogger211125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-52919479449255541322014-07-03T23:48:00.001-07:002014-07-03T23:48:22.630-07:00Writing Blog Hop: Author - Stuart Keane<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEN-oEB2AOyo9R5Apgaz5_1z-eWYKL3wh6lz3ixkULfx5stGnFiYtfYh34oqmhp3WtGVBp0Wn9CgdIIwuPicFG-jLHgnYvkty2eoamNEmSXyFQGDPZYI2cWqWzQo7FSZQJ-G_z1CuZXM/s1600/Customer-Is-Always24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEN-oEB2AOyo9R5Apgaz5_1z-eWYKL3wh6lz3ixkULfx5stGnFiYtfYh34oqmhp3WtGVBp0Wn9CgdIIwuPicFG-jLHgnYvkty2eoamNEmSXyFQGDPZYI2cWqWzQo7FSZQJ-G_z1CuZXM/s1600/Customer-Is-Always24.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a></div>
After a few weeks of preparing a wedding, actually getting married
and going on a mini honeymoon, it’s time to get back to the writing.
What better way to do that then with my very first Writing Blog Hop. A
Writing Blog Hop is as it sounds, it’s like a relay between authors. We
answer a few questions, tag other authors and they do the same.<br />
The author who tagged me is Shari Sakurai, a British author who wrote
Demon’s Blood, an original take on vampires, and the upcoming Perfect
World. You can find out more about Shari by visiting <a href="http://www.stuartkeane.com/my-blog/www.goodreads.com/author/show/7756989.Shari_Sakurai" title="Goodreads">Goodreads</a> or her <a href="https://sharisakurai.wordpress.com/2014/06/16/the-writing-process-blog-hop/%20" title="Website">Website</a>.<br />
So, here are the questions. Let’s do this!<br />
1. <strong>What Am I Working On?</strong><br />
Currently, I’m preparing the final format of All or Nothing, my debut
feature length novel. It’s due for release on June 30 on Amazon Kindle
and paperback. It’s going to be a busy week. I’ve received my ARC
reviews back and all were positive so this is becoming a busy, but very
exciting time. As well as this, I’m editing two short stories for two
upcoming anthologies and I’m currently working on my new novel. 2014 has
been a busy year for me thus far and this doesn’t look like changing.<br />
2. <strong>How Does My Work Differ From Other’s In It’s Genre?</strong><br />
I don’t think it falls into the one genre which makes it more
accessible to a wider audience. The book is primarily a horror. However,
it borrows from the psychological/suspense/thriller genres in equal
measure. On some counts it’s also a crime thriller and a drama. I like
to alternate between genres because it’s not too restrictive and I find
it more liberating to write this way. It also can produce some
interesting results. After all, horror needs suspense and vice-versa so
it’s more a natural process that infuses into my work.<br />
3. <strong>Why Do I Write What I Do?</strong><br />
It’s been a life long dream of mine to do this. Since I first read
Richard Laymon – and to be honest any book, my first ever when I was
three – I’ve always enjoyed being creative. It started from reading,
processed through school and college, all the way up until I hit thirty
and realised I was ready to do this. Two years later, this January, I
started my first novel and released my first novella, The Customer Is
Always… which has received some great reviews. In six months, I’ve had
several short stories accepted to several anthologies (Terror Train is
currently available on Amazon Kindle and paperback) and I’m humbled by
the response to my work. This is why I write what I do. I remember being
excited when I first read a book that appealed to me and my hope is
that I can return this to people who appreciated good horror.<br />
4. <strong>How Does My Writing Process Work?</strong><br />
It depends on my current project. For example, All or Nothing I
planned from the beginning to the end. I knew where I wanted it to go.
This method can be quite taxing. However, on The Customer Is Always…, I
just wrote it and waited to see where it went. The characters developed,
the story progressed, and the finished product was a taut, tight
thriller. I normally will edit as I go, finish a draft and then go back
over it, bulk it, fine tune it etc. Sometimes I will write everything,
re-read it before I progress and then go back. As a result, I don’t
really have a set process but it’s interesting to mix it up with this
part of the writing.<br />
The one thing I always do, regardless of project, is develop the key
characters first. Even if they change motive, flip from a heel to face
etc. I always try to get their basic character down first. This always
helps me to lend their motives and challenges clarity, to ensure their
development isn’t too erratic or sudden.<br />
Now I’ve answered the questions, I hand this over to my nominated
authors. These are four names in the horror genre to keep an eye on.
Trust me when I say, you don’t want to miss their work.<br />
<em>Kyle M Scott</em>, author of Consumed: Volume 1. One of my
favourite horror books of the year, this volume includes four of the
sickest, most depraved horror stories I’ve ever had the pleasure to
read. I have the pleasure of working with Kyle on an upcoming
collaboration and to say I’m excited is an understatement. You can read
more about Kyle on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8180038.Kyle_M_Scott?from_search=true" title="Goodreads">Goodreads</a> or on his <a href="http://thehorrorhotel.blogspot.co.uk/?m=1" title="Website">Website</a>.<br />
<em>Charie D. La Marr</em>, author of several novels, most notably
Bumping Noses and Cherry Pie. Charie is also a keen contributor to
several anthologies such as Cut Up!, Axes of Evil, and The Terror Train
Anthology – a book I had the privilege of sharing with her. Quirky and
wholly original, her work deserves to be read. You can read more about
Charie on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7276654.Charie_D_La_Marr" title="Goodreads">Goodreads</a>.<br />
<em>Jack Rollins </em>is the author of the Dr Blessing series. Jack
is unique as he bases his horror in the 1800′s, in Victorian England.
Think Jack The Ripper atmosphere and detail and you’re halfway there.
His books are creepy and terrifying in equal measure and a must for
anyone who’s a fan of Hammer Horror or classics like Frankenstein and
Dracula. You can read more about Jack on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8288144.Jack_Rollins" title="Goodreads">Goodreads</a>.<br />
<em>Matt Shaw</em>, author of Sick B*stards and the upcoming Porn.
Shaw is the author of over forty books and also has a talent for film
making, taking the initiative to adapt his own books into short films.
Matt is a hard working individual, one who fully deserves to be
recognised for his contribution to the horror genre. His ability to push
the boundaries of taste, sex and violence is unparalleled. You can read
more about Matt on <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1089965.Matt_Shaw?from_search=true" title="Goodreads">Goodreads</a> or on his <a href="http://www.mattshawpublications.co.uk/" title="Website">Website</a>.Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-58647501528678340402014-07-03T23:44:00.000-07:002014-07-03T23:44:01.492-07:00Writing Blog Hop: Author - Jack Rollins<div class="body mediumText reviewText">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbBCE6AZIwpzgPNPnso95eWQTqW4rPqSm2QR5SPR2s9v-6QRD82tH4JMuvBT_lX9nPTcx6MUJxHTcGjuYiIFLKyCsnucNfJhaOEImOlzFFVBTBENOwGdzOHpZipXBove8-ZE_mtX9puE/s1600/21102074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbBCE6AZIwpzgPNPnso95eWQTqW4rPqSm2QR5SPR2s9v-6QRD82tH4JMuvBT_lX9nPTcx6MUJxHTcGjuYiIFLKyCsnucNfJhaOEImOlzFFVBTBENOwGdzOHpZipXBove8-ZE_mtX9puE/s1600/21102074.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a></div>
I have been asked to take part in my first Writing Blog Hop. For
those who don’t know, this is a bit like a relay between authors, where
each writer answers a set of questions, then signposts to other author
blogs. They do the same and on it goes.<br />
<br />
The author who tagged me
is Stuart Keane, writer of “The Cusomer is Always…” and “All or Nothing”
(which is currently being eyed for mainstream publication). You can
find out more about Stuart and his work at his website <a href="http://www.stuartkeane.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.stuartkeane.com</a> or on Goodreads <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8122585.Stuart_Keane" target="_blank">https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...</a><br />
<br />
Now on to my bit.<br />
<br />
1. What Am I Working On?<br />
<br />
Several
projects at once, in fact. The closest to release is a novella called
The Séance which I aim to make available as an e-book this summer. The
story is set in Victorian London, but is separate from the Dr Blessing
series. Simultaneously, I am working on 2 stories connected to Dr
Blessing. I don’t want to give anything away for those who haven’t read
the first 3 parts, but I’ll give away a couple of hints: London between
the Rapture and Christmas… And we have to go right to the beginning
before we can get to the end…<br />
<br />
2. How Does My Work Differ From Other’s In Its Genre?<br />
<br />
The
Dr Blessing stories are based in the horror genre, but, particularly
with Dr Blessing’s Rapture (the second part of the series) I wanted to
play with things a bit and add more of a sense of Victorian adventure,
or thriller, along with some traditional horror aspects.<br />
As the series has a blood-drinking monster at its core, it would be
too easy to peddle out just another vampire story, but even vampire
fiction has changed over the years. I have avoided the erotic, romantic,
“vampires can live among us and be our boyfriends” stuff, by sticking
to a simple principle: the creature in my stories is a malevolent,
heartless being who will (literally) chew up anyone in its way. No
romance. No sparkling in the sunlight. The creature is evil and out for
survival by any means.<br />
<br />
I think the creepy, gas-lit, foggy London
setting helps to take the reader away from the familiar, and takes
horror back to basics. Beyond that, I try not to simply throw gore at my
readers, although there is naturally some bloodshed; I try to serve
something more disturbing, something lingering, something that will make
you wonder about it later and hopefully, something you will read again
and find all of the little set-ups and connections that were there all
along…<br />
<br />
3. Why Do I Write What I Do?<br />
<br />
I wouldn't say that I
will always write horror; I follow specific ideas as they come. I think,
for example, I have at least one contemporary thriller and three
westerns in me, if I turn my attention to them. If a good sci-fi idea
occurred to me, I would follow it up, but there is not a strong desire
in me to concoct a sci-fi story. I have steam-punk niggling away in the
back of my mind as something I might try one day.<br />
<br />
My current and
recent works stem from my fascination with Victorian life and there is
something classic about horror stories set in that time that really gets
my imagination going. I have a contemporary story/series that has been
gestating for a long time and while I think of it as horror, it could be
considered a supernatural thriller, urban fantasy or dark fantasy.
Essentially I write what I believe and hope will be a good, entertaining
story no matter what the genre. It’s difficult to explain… I just get
an idea, follow it and build upon it, and it just sort of… writes
itself.<br />
<br />
4. How Does My Writing Process Work?<br />
<br />
It all
depends on the project. I have consciously tried to work in different
ways over time. For example, there are stories I have written straight
through from start to finish with very little planning, and there are
others I have planned meticulously, act by act, chapter by chapter. Some
parts of the story I will type directly, and other parts are notes,
then handwritten sections, and then these join the typed material when
ready. There are times that I have focussed on set-pieces first and then
connected the dots and there are whole projects that have ground to a
halt as I tried to find the time to get some research done… Then comes
the re-reading and rewriting and the tuning up. I try to leave each
draft for about a month if I can and around draft 3 or 4, I have to let
go of the story and prep it for launch.<br />
<br />
Well, that concludes the
questions, and so I have to hand over to my nominated author (I hope
he's still up for doing this!). Beneath my nomination I have have posted
some additional info, including some promo information for those who
are yet to get into the Dr Blessing series and who might like to give it
a try as well as all the other ways to get involved.<br />
<br />
<br />
My nominated authors are:<br />
Terry M. West and David Basnett.<br />
<br />
Terry
is a well known and prolific author, filmmaker, actor and artist. He
has written several books in the young adult field (most notably the
graphic novel series, Confessions of a Teenage Vampire) and he has also
written several horror short stories as well as the horror/thriller
novel, Dreg. <br />
<br />
Terry's Blog, Confessions of a Darkly Disturbed Ink Slinger is here: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/127945.Terry_M_West/blog" target="_blank">https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...</a><br />
<br />
<br />
David
is another horror writer based in Northumberland, like myself. He has
written a young adult horror trilogy: Eve Of The Damned, Island Of The
Dead and The Shadow Of Life, based on the young members of a vampire
hunting organisation known as De Omori. David also happens to be a
friend of mine, and some eagle-eyes readers have spotted that although
his stories and mine are separated by over 100 years, they are
connected.<br />
<br />
David's website is here: <a href="http://www.david-basnett.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.david-basnett.com/</a><br />
<br />
Over to you, gents.<br />
<br />
<b>Additional Shoutout</b><br />
Another horror writer, nominated by Stuart Keane, has put up his blog hop entry too, check out Kyle Scott and his work here: <a href="http://thehorrorhotel.blogspot.co.uk/2014/07/writing-blog-hop-kyle-m-scott.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://thehorrorhotel.blogspot.co.uk/...</a> <br />
<br />
More info on Jack Rollins:<br />
<br />
The
first part of the Dr Blessing series, “Dr Blessing’s Curse, Or, The
Baby In The Bell-Jar” will be free for download as an e-book from Amazon
from 4th July 2014 to 6th July 2014.<br />
<br />
Alternatively all 3 parts are available in one volume, “The Cabinet of Dr Blessing” as an e-book on Amazon, and as a paperback.<br />
<br />
There
are lots of ways to get in touch and get involved – many of my readers
and supporters already do, receiving updates and info on upcoming
projects, links to other writers, promos, etc.<br />
<br />
I would like you to enjoy my work, and if you do like it, please leave a review telling others about it.<br />
<br />
The next best thing is for Facebook users to Like my page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/doctorblessing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/doctorblessing</a> where I post up to date info on all of my work.<br />
<br />
Those
who use Twitter, I would like you to follow me @jackrollins9280, and if
you drop me a message saying you read the blog, I’ll know you are a
real person and I’ll even follow you back!
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-89576504174386338402014-07-02T00:49:00.001-07:002014-07-02T23:06:05.954-07:00Writing Blog Hop - Kyle M. Scott<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7mfgtlfUhuWlkJk0L9ofab_RAycWqQkZNbQd4oFRyj3Eij9DwCEvZxxrSMID-ZBeT7fb4QJJm-tYp8bBkML46ZhM1m7tcZuHW4G-y4EagqX4SglXmsfXR2AayXdhyphenhyphenL9Zsnz5JfpcWEnk/s1600/ffff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7mfgtlfUhuWlkJk0L9ofab_RAycWqQkZNbQd4oFRyj3Eij9DwCEvZxxrSMID-ZBeT7fb4QJJm-tYp8bBkML46ZhM1m7tcZuHW4G-y4EagqX4SglXmsfXR2AayXdhyphenhyphenL9Zsnz5JfpcWEnk/s1600/ffff.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a>Hi all. I’ve been passed the baton – so to speak – in a
Writing Blog Hop. Now, for those of you wondering what in the hell this is; it’s
basically like a relay, (hence my phenomenal reference to batons – that's why I’m
a writer, folks!), wherein a writer is nominated to share some info on his
work, answer a few questions, and then pass the questions onto one or more of
his peers. Exposure, people! Exposure!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was tagged by my good friend and writer-in-arms, Stuart
Keane – Author of The Customer is Always, and the upcoming All or Nothing.
Check his work out, because 1 – I said so,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>and 2 – He’s a fine writer.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now for the part all us writers hate....talking about ourselves...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>What Am I Working On?</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<u><span style="color: blue;"></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the moment, I’m just finishing up my second draft of my
full length novel, DEVILS DAY. It’s an old school throwback to the sort of
horror movies and literature that fueled my adolescence, and is set in 1984 on
Halloween night. It’s the tale of a town under siege by satanic forces. I can’t
divulge any more than that at present as I hate spoilers. What I can tell you
is that it’s an explicit hard-core horror novel with a nostalgic heart pumping
blood through its veins. It’s written as a full-tilt rollercoaster ride, and
should appeal to fans of monster movies and literature, character-driven
thrillers and gore-hounds alike.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>How Does My Work Differ From Others In The
Genre?<u><span style="color: blue;"></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-indent: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think any writer worth his/her salt will always find
something unique to bring to the table. It may not be a conscious thing, though. I don't spend much time worrying about finding my voice as I'm more interested in telling the stories I want to tell.<br />
With many of my stories, I like to fuse elements of the classic horror I grew up loving, with the more hardcore elements found in modern horror - I often try to create recognisable, almost comfortable horror scenarios and then pull the rug out from the reader with explicitly brutal scenarios that often cross more than a few lines of decency. The melding of old and new, hopefully makes for an interesting, disorientating and shocking read. In my work scenes of whimsy or nostalgia can turn on a dime into vicious, hard hitting violence.<br />
Also, my background is that of a
horror reviewer, (cinema and literature), I’m a true fan. I do this because
I love it. I’m writing for the fans of the genre, and for myself. That same joy that I find in telling the stories hopefully translates into a fun experience for the reader. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Why Do I Write What I Do?</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<u><span style="color: blue;"></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I mentioned before, Horror is my great love. I’ve lived
and breathed the genre since I was a child, and it’s never left my heart in all
the intervening years. I believe as a genre, it can thrill, terrify, teach and
even comfort. Through many of the tumultuous periods in my life, Horror has
been there. I owe the genre big-time, and after spending years reviewing and
dissecting the art of others, I found myself dissatisfied. I realised that if I wanted to give something
back to the genre that gave me so much, it was time I turned my hand to
creating my own dark realities. I haven’t looked back and I never will. I may
experiment with other genres, but Horror will always be my home. It’s either
this or kick bricks in the street.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>How Does My Writing Process Work?</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s evolved into a really organic thing, as time has went on.
When I began, my writing day would consist of perhaps five hours of self-doubt,
some pacing the floor, and a page of writing, but as time has went on and my
confidence in my work has grown, I find that it’s a very natural process. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Usually, I’ll have an idea that gets stuck in my head and
needles away at me until I acquiesce. I tend to obsess over whatever I’m
working on to what could be considered an unhealthy degree. I have difficulty
focusing on anything other than the story in my head, and usually I’ll only
work on one project at a time – give it my all, so to speak. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I tend to allow the characters and the stories to grow and
expand as I write them, and often find myself being dragged along for the ride
with no idea where my creations plan to take me. It’s a fun, liberating
experience that often leaves me simultaneously exhausted and exhilarated.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once I complete my first draft, I give the novel a few weeks
to breathe. I try to turn my mind from it for a spell, and then return to iron
out any issues that I may have overseen, and hone the characters, pace and
tone. After the second draft, I let it rest again for a few more weeks and then
read as any reader would. If all’s well, its publication time. So far that's been
the case so it’s happy days all around at the moment.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Okay, here endeth the questions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For anyone interested, you can purchase my first book, CONSUMED - VOLUME 1 via the links below:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
</div>
77p UKP/ $1.29 USD<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00I3ZRSEU?%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0" target="_blank">http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00I3ZRSEU?*Version*=1&*entries*=0</a>
UK<br />
<a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00I3ZRSEU&h=pAQHgvj01&enc=AZP153Xaa4MZZqaRcI2AFivCmZrIpYuc6HP6Y0ZhTDcYvclQdBjvC82TQiQ2j8JG0fFUK4uAQDZO_xWt7ege-D45TgipTDwkyRhfmt7lv1dqVAJGa6VlEJFbvtSW6DukETqU7YlNLZ0QfGdaml5ZhDfn1q3inR69u8OKlMwWoSFwyQ&s=1" target="_blank">http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I3ZRSEU</a> USA<br />
<br />
DEVILS DAY COMING SOON!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
I also wanna give a quick shout out to Author, Jack Rollins.
And again, to Staurt Keane for nominating me for this here lil fun-fest.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/doctorblessing">Jack Rollins</a> <br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8122585.Stuart_Keane?from_search=true">Stuart Keane</a> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Cheers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
K<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00I3ZRSEU?%2AVersion%2A=1&%2Aentries%2A=0" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-56684748973567905532014-05-15T12:37:00.002-07:002014-05-15T12:37:35.964-07:00Book Review - 'The Customer is Always' by Stuart Keane<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxJqBQopW_9RZwgiv1Erhc973Aqrh_Omcj8uEEV6cA8Avur6dFgsxTAaHlfUXMo5IN58xQkl1p5mohh0y1_jHY3uD8Qa3yHvrUqkV6_QUnSf07Gt4RqmCbLuNQdBln4VJlTqsx6x4VVk/s1600/21852777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxJqBQopW_9RZwgiv1Erhc973Aqrh_Omcj8uEEV6cA8Avur6dFgsxTAaHlfUXMo5IN58xQkl1p5mohh0y1_jHY3uD8Qa3yHvrUqkV6_QUnSf07Gt4RqmCbLuNQdBln4VJlTqsx6x4VVk/s1600/21852777.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></div>
<span class="readable reviewText">
<span id="freeTextreview926798929"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="readable reviewText"><span id="freeTextreview926798929">Horror has a long standing relationship with political and social metaphor.<br />Dating
all the way back to George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead, the
genre has been used to shine a light on the issues of the day, be they
racism, communism, the Vietnam conflict or any number of social ills
that encroach on the growth of a society. <br />In more recent years,
we’ve seen authors such as Bentley Little tackle the modern worlds woes,
and even Stephen King has a thing or two to say about our society as a
whole.<br />For every mindless slasher movie and/or novel, (and there is
nothing wrong with that style either – I’m a huge fan), there will
always be work out there that shows just how intelligent the genre can
be, when its handled with the right care and skill.<br />Stuart Keane is one such writer.<br />His
first release – the novella, ‘The Customer is Always...’, shows a
refreshing sense of confidence and focus. The story itself, a simple
game of cat and mouse, is elevated by the setting, the characters and
the subtext, all of which is handled with zero pretention, and for
maximum impact. Stuart – clearly a student of the late great Richard
Laymon – has an keen sense for what makes horror such an entertaining
and enthralling genre, and he understands that the story will hit all
the harder if the reader can relate.<br />Many of us have worked in call
centres – I myself have served my time caught amidst the snakes,
backstabbers and power-trippers that make up that particular vipers nest
– and we know the ropes. Stuart, dare I say, is no stranger to such a
dehumanising environment. <br />His sharp, violent and telling novella
details the workplace with relish, and no small amount of vitriol, but
it never suffocates the sense of pace or the suspense. It’s a fast paced
thriller that balances its subject matter with its tension, and builds
rapidly to a surprisingly thoughtful climax.<br />‘The Customer is
Always...’ is a fine example of indie-horror – thoughtful, tense,
occasionally violent and even a little sad. Keane is off to a very
strong start in his new career, and I’ll be watching closely. </span></span><br />
<span class="readable reviewText"><span id="freeTextreview926798929"><br /></span></span>
<span class="readable reviewText"><span id="freeTextreview926798929">You can buy Stuart's debut release by clicking the link<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00JFJOSHS/ref=x_gr_w_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=goodreads_uk-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00JFJOSHS&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2"> here </a>and heading over to Amazon.</span></span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-54729876742365082952014-01-30T10:07:00.004-08:002014-01-30T10:09:55.977-08:00CONSUMED: VOLUME 1 by Kyle M. Scott<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRcuaLUhMEaZMc3L10M8OwOVaNIBM8jQfyhNZ0EGEXikqj6xCu_7JKEh4-EvPwtVmEryr6T76sZtppPhJV4EsIThj0HkQtNu6tDVv7XWHvUtFCuBQ7nO1RPK2znmoSyjKCM6S5fX-Gdk/s1600/ffff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRcuaLUhMEaZMc3L10M8OwOVaNIBM8jQfyhNZ0EGEXikqj6xCu_7JKEh4-EvPwtVmEryr6T76sZtppPhJV4EsIThj0HkQtNu6tDVv7XWHvUtFCuBQ7nO1RPK2znmoSyjKCM6S5fX-Gdk/s1600/ffff.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
Hi everyone.<br />
As many of you know, I've been less than visible of late in the Horror Hotel due to working on my own horror fiction. Well, as of yesterday, I've finally released the first volume of my horror anthology - CONSUMED.<br />
It's taken me quite some time to put the tales together, but I'm really pleased with the results and I'm sure many of you who frequent the hotel, (even in my absence), will find something to enjoy within it's pages. I don't wanna give too much away, but it features four stories - two rather lengthy and two rather brisk - that combine hardcore horror with elements of social satire and dark, twisted humor. Among its pages you'll find murder and mayhem aplenty, and even the end of the world as we know it - all good fun that I hope puts a smile on your face,<br />
The process of creating these stories has been a very enjoyable, (if rather scary), one, and I couldn't have done it without the support and the confidence that I've generously received from so many of you good people. It means the world to me.<br />
Influences that the more horror savvy among you will no doubt detect range from the works of the late, great Richard Laymon to the splatterpunk likes of Edward Lee and the satirical stylings of Bentley Little.<br />
For any of you who do decide to take a dip into my fiction, please take the time to leave a little review on amazon, and if you're among the blogger friends I have here, I'd be most grateful if you would perhaps post a review on your page. Should be fun seeing the different takes on my work.<br />
As you all know, reviews can make a huge difference to a writers exposure, and really can help me get my work out there to a wider audience, so any help and support would be much appreciated.<br />
You can find the link below for the Kindle edition by clicking on the title.<br />
Thanks for the good vibrations along the way, people. This new adventure could never have happened were it not for the goodwill and support that I've garnered here at the hotel. It's really been inspiring and has helped my once lowly confidence reach heights I never knew were in me.<br />
<br />
Contact me any time on: kyle_scott1975@hotmail.co.uk<br />
<br />
Keep on shining, and I'll see you in the pub.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Consumed-Volume-1-Kyle-Scott-ebook/dp/B00I3ZRSEU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1390996194&sr=8-1&keywords=consumed+kyle+scott">CONSUMED VOLUME 1 USA</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Consumed-Volume-1-Kyle-Scott-ebook/dp/B00I3ZRSEU/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1390995461&sr=1-1&keywords=kyle+scott">CONSUMED VOLUME 1 UK</a><br />
<br />
<i>Other versions are available through Amazon in each specific region. </i><br />
<br />
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-5189871907429862632013-10-30T01:33:00.002-07:002013-10-30T02:38:10.828-07:00Review - ODD THOMAS (2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTrQo5a8mYtQFQt_ydtInM0eERMbwg21Ve7Es1bjHHAnRmKO7hzrEypkQbDB_NLiRwGYQZq9sqnhbu8SuhGEwe7AwZpNwNyLuz1yuxuRnt0GoZgGdGcl18hg4G27Tm5z9Ul42CYLoBz4/s1600/odd-thomas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTrQo5a8mYtQFQt_ydtInM0eERMbwg21Ve7Es1bjHHAnRmKO7hzrEypkQbDB_NLiRwGYQZq9sqnhbu8SuhGEwe7AwZpNwNyLuz1yuxuRnt0GoZgGdGcl18hg4G27Tm5z9Ul42CYLoBz4/s1600/odd-thomas.jpg" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>A short-order cook who has the ability to communicate with the dead and has clairvoyant powers, seeks to thwart tragedy as dark forces gather in his hometown...</i><br />
<br />
Its been a hearty long while since I read the first of Dean Koontz's beloved series of books about the titular Odd, a simple, small-town guy who works as a fry-cook, lives humbly, and also happens to see dead people and a whole lot more besides.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My memory of the novel is a strong one. I remember it being both a lighthearted supernatural jaunt and also a surprisingly affecting one. So much so, that I distinctly recall shedding tears at the books close. the details of the plot are far less hi-def in my imagination than the emotional resonance the book had with me, so it'll be up to far better, less frazzled men than me to compare and contrast between the original literary piece and this troubled adaptation. Instead, I'll review this curious genre-masher on its own merits.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I say 'troubled' as its no secret that ODD THOMAS has become embroiled in some sort of legal limbo and may never actually see a cinematic release. The details are hazy at present as to by Stephen Sommers, (THE MUMMY), latest offering has been held at arms length from the public, but it sure as hell isn't down to quality control. This is a very enjoyable, fast paced and eminently lovable work. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8rkwovmoQGQi3QXFpuJlx4MNyce7t105t_bTrhqksXLOVnigfg7hnDCEDNxUM44Jazi3zVuccadXccG_twMxba9oWCWa7L96HC1YDxCdqAdWJORn2gxYeOFPLD7-4CK4SItdTRclbxc/s1600/OddThomas-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8rkwovmoQGQi3QXFpuJlx4MNyce7t105t_bTrhqksXLOVnigfg7hnDCEDNxUM44Jazi3zVuccadXccG_twMxba9oWCWa7L96HC1YDxCdqAdWJORn2gxYeOFPLD7-4CK4SItdTRclbxc/s400/OddThomas-11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The first big surprise is that its director, Sommers, isn't exactly known for the integrity of his cinematic output. His films are often fun, but he seems a strange choice to adapt a beloved work of literature. Amazingly, he does wonders here, creating an off-kilter, warm and welcoming reality in which the characters of the novel are given free reign to run amok, and what characters they are...</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div>
Odd himself has become as beloved as any character in modern horror, so much so that he's featured in a whole series of hugely successful books, and Sommers has pulled an ace out his sleeve by casting Anton Yelchin as his hero. Yelchin has always exuded an every-man quality that makes him instantly relatable and not a little bit adorable, and he's a perfect fit for our supernaturally gifted crime-fighting fry-cook. There's real colour to Odd as a character, and Yelchin effortlessly embodies the inherent goodness and simple moral compass of the guy. Within two lines of dialogue, you'll be thinking of him as yer best buddy, just like in the books. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The supporting cast do wonders too. Odd's desert hometown of Peco Mundo plays host to a wonderfully quirky locale. And it appears that Yelchin's breezy and disarming approach to his character is reflected in the performances of all who ride this ship. Willem Dafeo is aways a boss, and here is no exception. As the long-suffering cop who has to clean up after Odd's many heroic deeds, he's world weary, funny and very amiable. A father figure we'd all like on our side.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyW5zt_guyAIRWXpjimBjzI3n4kNrPgV4YjLwWGnXpsh-latotRRL326UiLAM7MhwgodYbCyjfiO_kLCWdpbSEhvTzAeGq-cwu9QUObMbBpq5sj3G8k2ux8LK2s12Ghf3CCaR8fZGFB8/s1600/Addison-Timlin-and-Anton-Yelchin-in-Odd-Thomas-2013-Movie-Image-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyW5zt_guyAIRWXpjimBjzI3n4kNrPgV4YjLwWGnXpsh-latotRRL326UiLAM7MhwgodYbCyjfiO_kLCWdpbSEhvTzAeGq-cwu9QUObMbBpq5sj3G8k2ux8LK2s12Ghf3CCaR8fZGFB8/s400/Addison-Timlin-and-Anton-Yelchin-in-Odd-Thomas-2013-Movie-Image-6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
As the love of Odd's life, 'Stormy', Ashley Sommers makes you sit up and take notice. Not only due to her shockingly beautiful appearance, (and derriere), but due to sheer star appeal. She's charismatic in all the right ways that her character requires. Odd's a unique guy with an unflappable positivism, and it takes an equally optimistic and bright gal to convince us that he'd be head over heels for her. No worries there...the chemistry is so sound between these two that even Walter White couldn't find shit to complain about.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The approach to characters in ODD THOMAS is echoed in every aspect of the production. It deals with horrific, and sometimes saddening situations, but the whole show has a welcoming lightness of touch that's very hard not to love. It boasts some real tension, not least due to the audience authentically caring for the players, and it's not afraid to get its hands dirty and get it's 'violent' on, but it's all so damned quirkadelic that you're never in danger of taking it too seriously, as is clearly the intent. This is the very definition of a good time, no string attached.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If I have any criticism of the film at all, it's that its perhaps too light in some spots. As I mentioned, the book left me an emotional paste, and the film, while touching, never has the same impact. The tone of this adaptation is faithful to the book, but lacks the resonance that can be found in the pages of Koontz's novel. It's a small criticism though. After all, we're not here to be profoundly touched. We're here to be entertained, and ODD THOMAS is fantastically entertaining. The humor, the atmosphere, the characters...they all endear. The changes from book to screen may irk some, (Elvis Presley is eluded to in a visual joke here - fans of the novel will understand and perhaps bemoan the reference), of Koontz's readership, but they don't hurt the work at all. In terms of film-making, the changes actually ring very true.<br />
<br />
The spirit of the novel does remain intact. The subject matter - that of a mass-shooting and one mans attempts to stop it - may be pitch black, but the sense of adventure helps soften what may be an uncomfortable subject for some. I find it highly unlikely that this film will offend. It loves it's characters, and it wants you to love them too. Without ever becoming morose or forlorn, ODD THOMAS looks at love and sacrifice, and smiles on through the darkness. It's ALL about the love, kids.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihq6bBe5s2RKrR_6QgpqUM9mUAly9ANtyE9xi6CerSh__iZk3dghtNCMR73_vdG6JcCLQeJYKgJ0Wj-2rc6h_iGHI_3oxl9y6RgjBfForSV-eTxO4NaOB1CalfQ5zhqeFiVHIFxxvhyphenhyphenoc/s1600/Odd-Thomas-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihq6bBe5s2RKrR_6QgpqUM9mUAly9ANtyE9xi6CerSh__iZk3dghtNCMR73_vdG6JcCLQeJYKgJ0Wj-2rc6h_iGHI_3oxl9y6RgjBfForSV-eTxO4NaOB1CalfQ5zhqeFiVHIFxxvhyphenhyphenoc/s320/Odd-Thomas-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'm unsure what budget Sommers' had to work with her, but the film looks great. The effects work very well within the context of the story, not the least those used to bring alive the dark forces that infest Odd's happy hometown. I won;t give away any of the goodies, but there are some excellent, (and pretty freaky), visual flourishes to be found here.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you're looking for something different from the usual horror fare; something that oozes heart and style, and that will take you on a genuinely original and fun ride, look no further. Gentle comedy. Effective and suspenseful horror. A truly adorable romance. Fast paced and well shot action. Authentic tragedy...this adaptation has em all. It deserves to be seen by one and all. Dead or alive.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Fry on, Odd...Fry on...</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">7.5 Spongebob Square-Ghosts out of 10</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-74587444488543163232013-10-29T09:15:00.000-07:002013-10-30T01:57:26.509-07:00Review - Haunter (2013)<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXMfMe-VoqH5mjmjDIoLlPZFLb6Xs3shtYHiCvHQl3cdZuadZn6dNXyjDP9UVv4m4YYBaksII8hu0liPa55LYo8GoedCcbhBAgYqXKqD0wq1U_ccsYC_VmjtiVVCxXyDnzYEmbgU1g4s/s1600/Haunter-2013-Movie-Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXMfMe-VoqH5mjmjDIoLlPZFLb6Xs3shtYHiCvHQl3cdZuadZn6dNXyjDP9UVv4m4YYBaksII8hu0liPa55LYo8GoedCcbhBAgYqXKqD0wq1U_ccsYC_VmjtiVVCxXyDnzYEmbgU1g4s/s400/Haunter-2013-Movie-Poster.jpg" width="270" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
HAUNTER is a strange little enigma of a film...<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Starring young Abigail Breslin, ( ZOMBIELAND), its the tale of a deceased young lady who attempts to reach out to the mortal realm in a bid to save the owners of the home she haunts from suffering a similar fate as her own.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Its a film that deems to transcend its genre trapping by way of being a thoughtful, and thought-provoking puzzle-piece, and at the same time, aims to be a universally accessible ghost story/mystery, (boasting a PG13 certificate, no less), that anyone can settle into with relative ease.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It saddens me to say, as a fan of Vincent Natali's previous works, (CUBE, GINGER SNAPS), that HAUNTER fails almost completely at the former and falls victim of the weakness' inherent in the latter.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div>
It's by no means a terrible film. In fact, its at times an almost beautiful work, with some strong performances and an excellent setting. But all of its good intent is scuppered by its dazzlingly derivative nature. There's nothing wrong with paying homage to other cinematic works, but its a fine line between referencing and outright ripping off of another artists material, and HAUNTER stumbles over the line like a drunk come closing time. The influences, if we can call them that, are so upfront and so prescient to the plot and atmosphere of the film, that it quickly becomes an infuriating watch.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7BsfMjFLTXRQQlSPxZmk8Cx84N-f2P8jyfSPcTfsO8NKxJJQUFX3pFHDULmd_m63zjB5QtULFaQHZpcL20_o5gC4Yj2XLKGxQx-oVjb6X0WItdMhuyLvytia2FFfhzMt9TnVgQEz9_U/s1600/images+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7BsfMjFLTXRQQlSPxZmk8Cx84N-f2P8jyfSPcTfsO8NKxJJQUFX3pFHDULmd_m63zjB5QtULFaQHZpcL20_o5gC4Yj2XLKGxQx-oVjb6X0WItdMhuyLvytia2FFfhzMt9TnVgQEz9_U/s1600/images+(1).jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let me give some examples, and I assure you I wont be spoiling anything that isn;t already written out loud and proud in the films synopsis</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The film deals with the spirit of a young girl who continually wakes up on the same day, (signaled by an alarm clock), only to find that she and her family are trapped some sort of space-time continuum wherein her family are unaware of the day being reset each evening. As she attempts to understand why she's trapped in this day, she comes to learn that she can change the course of the day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yep, its GROUNDHOG DAY.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Not only that, but the family home appears cut off from the rest of the world by an impenetrable fog. And there are strange noises emanating from the dark corners of the once happy home. The twist is, of course, that the house ain't haunted by these 'others', but is haunted by the family themselves.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You see where I'm going with this?<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Again, I'm not giving away anything. The girls recently deceased condition is clear from the outset, and in fairness, the film uses the plot of THE OTHERS as a jumping-off point for its own ideas, but the problem is that by the time the film gets round to exploring its own concepts, most of its audience will be bored or, as I was, pissed off by the sheer balls of the thing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatSvHbk9taIUIzhJkmEvpmBUatNOuW__A-UYGzABDudOtFZ3lLyI8XT8Z_kcz8nFRbVn6JbKW3LRXhUrdhhEV7n7_9hcOUnPjDL-TG34kVGGaYKmHy3NyvwAkVE5Ipf6Ak0FX-XTfUjo/s1600/haunter-movie-abigail-breslin-staircase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatSvHbk9taIUIzhJkmEvpmBUatNOuW__A-UYGzABDudOtFZ3lLyI8XT8Z_kcz8nFRbVn6JbKW3LRXhUrdhhEV7n7_9hcOUnPjDL-TG34kVGGaYKmHy3NyvwAkVE5Ipf6Ak0FX-XTfUjo/s320/haunter-movie-abigail-breslin-staircase.jpg" width="320" /></a>Given a little patience, there is a somewhat engaging mystery here. Personally, it managed to hold my attention most of the way through, but only barely. It could be that the films perceived target audience, (that of young teen girls looking for a gentle fright), may find it far more palatable that a grizzly old fuck like myself, but I'm not here to speculate on what kids may think of a horror film. I'm here to look at it as a 'horror film' in and of itself. And for me, this one misses the mark.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For the thinking adult, its gonna be a tough ride to the finish line with HAUNTER. It has no real scares and no real suspense. Of course, we can handle the lack of gore, as THE CONJURING proved last year that a PG13 need not be an indicator of the films fear-factor or intensity; it's just that where that film twisted genre-tropes into suprememly effective new shapes, HAUNTER takes far, far better films and attempts to filter them through an overly-simplified lens. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On the happy clappy side of things, it does boast some neat performances; namely those of veteran actors Stephen McHattie and David Hewlit as respectively, a mysterious repairman who may hold the key to the families predicament, and as the long-suffering, dangerously unhinged daddy of our heroine.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Breslin does reasonably well with a pretty dull script, and is likable an relate-able enough to suggest she may have a promising career ahead of her. She's fine, but she's not yet quite up to carrying a film on her little lonesome. Luckily the supporters, and the films lovely cinematography, help ease the audience around any missteps by the young actress. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also fun is the films 80's setting, which although practically irrelevant to the plot, is a nice little aside for the older audience members. It's a welcome little addition, to be sure.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To summarize...if your a long-suffering parent looking for a tame horror that'll keep the kids happy on Halloween, then HAUNTER could arguably suffice, but I'd circle this wagon with some real trepidation. Its really not worth your time, and I'd argue that even from the perspective of a young audience, it really hasn't got the chops to hold the attention. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A sad disappointment from a director with an impressive resume. Better luck next time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">3.5 Source Codes out of 10</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-22411847858118339982013-10-29T04:02:00.001-07:002013-10-30T01:58:18.480-07:00Guest Editorial - Bad Places to Hide When Killers Come Home - Adrian Rawlings<h1>
<span lang="EN-US">Bad Places to Hide When Killers Come Home<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US">Beyond the nightmarish yesteryears of <a href="http://blog.dappercadaver.com/2011/06/18/top-5-werewolf-transformations/">werewolf
transformations</a> and hypnotic vampires is the true horror – the kind that
finds its way into our homes. They say that home is where the heart is – it's
where we feel safest from all the horrors of the outside world, but it's also
where we're the most vulnerable. And the most effective horror movies
demonstrate this. The <a href="http://www.directtvbeatscable.com/channels/chiller.html">horror-themed TV</a>
shows and movies of today know just how to hit us where we live, showing us
that nowhere is safe when death comes knocking. Even Alfred Hitchcock himself
once said "TV has brought murder back into the home where it
belongs." <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US">Indeed, truer words were never spoken
regarding the effectiveness of horror on the home front, but have you ever
wondered just what you'd do in such a (hopefully) hypothetical situation? Have
you ever watched Jason or Leatherface chasing down their prey and scoffed at
how poorly the victims hid themselves? We can learn a lot from these movies
and, below, are some hiding places you should avoid if a killer ever decides to
make a house call:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US">Under and in the bed<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIVir0aHBZBKOlTkmjHFqlntOu69Yxh1cV2CDhRatugb1m1UHVOIOIEQD2K0tEe1gC2AyWcTJu4zJLPG-7Zvl6EVDKsbxZfXfKFfHPI4UpgYoHvQdIRjo3RGmRsYDtSHwgRJmfNzdBGV4/s1600/purge3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIVir0aHBZBKOlTkmjHFqlntOu69Yxh1cV2CDhRatugb1m1UHVOIOIEQD2K0tEe1gC2AyWcTJu4zJLPG-7Zvl6EVDKsbxZfXfKFfHPI4UpgYoHvQdIRjo3RGmRsYDtSHwgRJmfNzdBGV4/s320/purge3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When you're little, you're told that the
bed is a safe place. When something outside your window scares you, you pull the
covers over your face and, if things get really bad, you take a trip down
under. Unfortunately, that doesn't work with most killers capable of bending at
the waist. Ginny from <a href="http://youtu.be/-CzO7z1dZ1A"><i>Friday the 13th Part 2</i></a> tried this
and barely made it out alive.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US">In the oven<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyYN3p6hMI08K2vVQHFia7ty8rRYYQhu6CeuFUEAaZBL-SQ3HODghJtiuVPhGknGYho8-wzokHZW2u0MMFt3J4GOU90ITcyp2cBCuZizZc9YWE7Qs6VJcje5OatzCPFxKK-G4fp2lsVs/s1600/MV5BMzIxOTAzMzIzNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTYwMjYxMjc3._V1._SX475_SY337_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyYN3p6hMI08K2vVQHFia7ty8rRYYQhu6CeuFUEAaZBL-SQ3HODghJtiuVPhGknGYho8-wzokHZW2u0MMFt3J4GOU90ITcyp2cBCuZizZc9YWE7Qs6VJcje5OatzCPFxKK-G4fp2lsVs/s320/MV5BMzIxOTAzMzIzNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTYwMjYxMjc3._V1._SX475_SY337_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
If <i>Jurassic
Park </i>and <i>Deep Blue Sea</i> were
anything to go by, it's pretty safe to say the oven is a bad idea. Both movies
featured rather unconventional murderers pursuing their victims into what some
might consider unconventional hiding places. While it worked out okay in these
movies, do you really want to test a killer smart enough to hit BROIL on the
oven?</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US">Behind the curtain<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5s4qdjRWZTvIzh6f4iwcQK8caYYBQixE0uFQSiPXSRdXvNt-8a3a8iCDPxHxdOObo9C9ScXg7pG0DwGrY2pwt9KNKTw8ukuaRuH3qVlf7lhNtcscbsP075eoM3XMnZOfBFneh51vC8ZI/s1600/psycho-norman-bates-shower-scene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5s4qdjRWZTvIzh6f4iwcQK8caYYBQixE0uFQSiPXSRdXvNt-8a3a8iCDPxHxdOObo9C9ScXg7pG0DwGrY2pwt9KNKTw8ukuaRuH3qVlf7lhNtcscbsP075eoM3XMnZOfBFneh51vC8ZI/s320/psycho-norman-bates-shower-scene.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
Not only is it hard to remain perfectly
still without your body bulging out of the curtain, killers in movies have used
this method when evading the authorities. The 1982 cult classic <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082748/"><i>Pieces</i></a>
demonstrated this when the killer did that very same thing. The point is that
if killers can fathom it, it's probably off the table when it comes to safe
hiding places.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US">On the Roof<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWxg4GjBtdSxu27THzFdPsX-YB_OJapA3Y4Yj1YVLASCTi5D4zJoodP3n8F7FXrTgsfWquZdCSQTVtysYRwiJp5KDL2yT8fPZQPGUfys92KN8Za9ys3UWMhAxBLPrmAIpq8QE4pNLtCj0/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWxg4GjBtdSxu27THzFdPsX-YB_OJapA3Y4Yj1YVLASCTi5D4zJoodP3n8F7FXrTgsfWquZdCSQTVtysYRwiJp5KDL2yT8fPZQPGUfys92KN8Za9ys3UWMhAxBLPrmAIpq8QE4pNLtCj0/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US">So you lead the killer up to the roof
and now you think you're golden. You've got plenty of space to move around up
there and there's only one of him. Heck, you might be able to turn the tables
and push him off, right? Perhaps in some fantasy world where his chainsaw runs
out of gas and he drops his machete. <a href="http://youtu.be/6sQ6NLuSZqI"><i>World War Z</i></a> and many movies like it
demonstrated the inherent flaw with escaping to the roof. After all, when
you're up that high, you're stranded and there may not be a chopper coming to
save you.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Down in the Basement</span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpKnDPtjlPbMAIyPLkCqOQ26NZ2VhTGPMGj7n9A6Ecd9Zhlf5EeeYJ55TLC3i-sSHzzZJ-E7qZtz4cHDft3Ycm_MXb__ho2WOWnSQXOH3ZWlJhK07ulMakLiX6T9-QzsxRNNjPkdxfBE/s1600/night-of-the-living-dead-marilyn-eastman-kyra-scho1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpKnDPtjlPbMAIyPLkCqOQ26NZ2VhTGPMGj7n9A6Ecd9Zhlf5EeeYJ55TLC3i-sSHzzZJ-E7qZtz4cHDft3Ycm_MXb__ho2WOWnSQXOH3ZWlJhK07ulMakLiX6T9-QzsxRNNjPkdxfBE/s320/night-of-the-living-dead-marilyn-eastman-kyra-scho1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Anyone who has seen the original <i>Night of the Living Dead</i> knows that one
major point of contention between the survivors was whether to hole up in the
basement or reinforce the upstairs. In the end, the basement proved to be a
poor decision and regardless of whether your tormentor is of the undead or
living variety, the fact remains that the basement is the easiest way to get
cornered.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US">Honestly, the last place you want to be
is anywhere near the house when a killer decides to swing by. Unfortunately,
death doesn't send a card and you never know whose knocking from the other side
of that door...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US">AUTHOR: Adrian Rawlings;
@adrianrawlings2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US">BIO: Adrian Rawlings is a TV and horror
blogger. Look to him for the scoop on hit movies and TV shows, horror films,
tech reviews, how-to guides, and more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-27015076428679164812013-09-30T23:41:00.003-07:002013-10-30T01:57:58.767-07:00Horror Double Bill - CURSE OF CHUCKY (2013) and DARK TOUCH (2013)It occurred to me recently that I've been treating horror cinema rather harshly of late. Our relationship has never lost that fire, but I've sorta been cheating on the genres cinematic output and focusing my attention far more on the literary side of things. I've been exploring a whole host of new authors, and re-reading some of the greats, and in doing so, I've partially abandoned the wondrous world of film for a time.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Not cool.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, its finally our favorite time of year - the fall, and with that comes that old familiar burning desire to vegetate on the sofa with endless buckets of popcorn, and give the better half a reason to dump our sorry, macabre-centric asses and find a more mentally balanced partner. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I like to believe that for every leave that falls in the autumn, a horror fan somewhere on our crazy planet downs a cold one in honor of Jason, Micheal, Chucky, Freddy, Leatherface et all. Its a good time to be alive, man. And with the change in weather, I've found my second wind...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yep, I've been watching a shit-ton of dark cinema this past week, and while it ain't all been a skip through a daisy field, there have been some pretty high watermarks to vanquish the bitter memory of the low.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But look, we're all busy here, so I'll cut to the chase...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Time ain't on my side of late, and it pains me to not get the word out about the movies I see, so I thought I'd try a different technique.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
The reviews will be shorter than my usual, but hopefully concise, and maybe even point you in the direction of some movies you may have overlooked, or that may have been unfairly treated at the hands of the mainstream critics out there. Any suggestions are welcome, of course, kids.<br />
<br />
So, no more foreplay...lets get on the bed.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div>
First up is :</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">CURSE OF CHUCKY</span></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQx5HqMLDZZeJqlNxbEhQA63VQbxfq0lD2wUFu46uYDD_YFfMdwrYIMkrCN8EzWuiT40Al3HJZideXUQFfFMBgWLCNKFEk7C_t-iWREhQlc23y6oHdPOG494HJgGCdYkDxfR2FZrVpDQ/s1600/Curse-of-Chucky-Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQx5HqMLDZZeJqlNxbEhQA63VQbxfq0lD2wUFu46uYDD_YFfMdwrYIMkrCN8EzWuiT40Al3HJZideXUQFfFMBgWLCNKFEk7C_t-iWREhQlc23y6oHdPOG494HJgGCdYkDxfR2FZrVpDQ/s320/Curse-of-Chucky-Cover.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
Synopsis - <i>After a long hiatus, the killer doll is back causing more bloodshed and mayhem. When an isolated mother and her wheelchair bound daughter receive a mysterious gift in the mail - an old school 80's Good-Guy doll - it sets in motion the evil Chucky's latest slaughter-spree, as the families past comes back to haunt them. With a knife. A sharp, sharp knife...</i></div>
<div>
<br />
Everyone loves Chucky, don't they? The violent little bastard has been cutting a swathe through cinema since the late 80's, and when looked at in retrospect, the franchise as a whole actualy stands uop pretty well. Now, of course, SEED OF CHUCKY fucked all that up royally somewhere around a decade ago, but with CURSE, the original creator, writer and director of CHILDS PLAY has made a valiant and damned entertaining return to what made the half-pint headcase such a cool character in the first place. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For my money, this is the best in the series since the first. Its got a wonderful, Gothic setting - a huge mansion, full of dark corridors, brooding architecture and cobweb-ridden attics, a stunningly beautiful and very talented lead, (the daughter of Brad Douriff, no less), some genuine tension, great cinematography, and - praise be - no fucking CG. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7DPPpN5qZgobVuBhp2gyyfB1ztO_tvaPb3ba9hGtVy81QGQlN3zDX9JsyIZDkEH2eJQi2peibvLrRpvJ8c-KBgrGlCui1T8SpBB0XTkR95o0uR2-V7iLqaackUCtAHiGXWG-M8K8W3o/s1600/Curse-of-Chucky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7DPPpN5qZgobVuBhp2gyyfB1ztO_tvaPb3ba9hGtVy81QGQlN3zDX9JsyIZDkEH2eJQi2peibvLrRpvJ8c-KBgrGlCui1T8SpBB0XTkR95o0uR2-V7iLqaackUCtAHiGXWG-M8K8W3o/s320/Curse-of-Chucky.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
Chucky has never looked better, nor felt more threatening that in CURSE. The lampooning air that permeated the previous two entries in the franchise has been jettisoned in favor of back-to-basics scares, a more serious tone, a reliance on atmosphere and eeriness, and a plot that actually tries to forward the series in some ways. Its all pretty tip-top for a chapter in a franchise that spans three decades. By this point in Jason's career, he was killing kids on a spaceship while dressed up like the gay-porno version of Robocop.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It ain't flawless - the tone of the final scene is too light to fit in with whats come before, some of the kills happen off-screen, and there are some glaring visual inconsistencies, (and no, I don't mean in Chucky ever-changing appearance; that's always been the case) - but its a determined return to form for the homicidal 'Good-Guy Doll'. Well worth checking out and without doubt a perfect flick for the Halloween season.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
7.5<b> Creepy Little Bastards out of 10</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">DARK TOUCH</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBB_Kmu_9gjE4VwF4DJJ2bM5BhwpOedK992oFpAz_vFQUePOKJYlieF4TTAgCI2sfEOJhOFK70vwVhhcudcAk11RF0THdV-qVIJLN9F3VxgbQugZZCt8s9Hl_LR0lRZHMXO4IGXWtwXCE/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBB_Kmu_9gjE4VwF4DJJ2bM5BhwpOedK992oFpAz_vFQUePOKJYlieF4TTAgCI2sfEOJhOFK70vwVhhcudcAk11RF0THdV-qVIJLN9F3VxgbQugZZCt8s9Hl_LR0lRZHMXO4IGXWtwXCE/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
Synopsis -<i> In the aftermath of the brutal slaying of her family, a young girl insists it was supernatural forces that killed them. As she moves into a caring families home and attempts to escape her horrific past, traumas resurface and she learns that not only is she right, but she may be the key to what occurred. </i><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
For a small indie film, DARK TOUCH is making some sizable waves on the festival circuit. Its already being proclaimed, 'the superior telekinesis thriller of the year', (the other being the upcoming new adaptation of Stephen Kings CARRIE), and while I disagree on some counts, I can see why the film is garnering such credit among my fellow critics. This is a dark, mature and occasionally disturbing look at child abuse, and the viral nature of the harm it inflicts upon the innocent. It's a violent expression of the inherent anger we feel as a society towards the harming of our young, and its a decent little Irish export. What it's not however, is the masterpiece its being heralded as</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Initially, this bleak, depressing little horror film feels a little chaotic in its pacing. Going in blind, its at first a little tough to get to grips with the directors intent, but stick with it. The prolonged opening makes way for some pretty interesting stuff.. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The performances are all solid, and all the kids manage to hold their own with the more experienced adult cast. The lead actress puts in an especially haunting performance, and those of you sporting geek-vision may spot Rikkon from the mighty GAME OF THRONES in there too. Where the fuck is he now that Bran's ditched him anyway?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1DcctpNdt5gYRkxr2jJukkV7yv7rmpXU2t8puWUHzorxj4DhSP4UUaC6FHcw_WuMFfwIwUgICytjACDn4JiSx20ySPOZGzHn6NEkRCwgBwGLwtoKEXCbMbHBptGfIDh9A37m9TUD2pE/s1600/540507_464397716987580_1816905848_n-360x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1DcctpNdt5gYRkxr2jJukkV7yv7rmpXU2t8puWUHzorxj4DhSP4UUaC6FHcw_WuMFfwIwUgICytjACDn4JiSx20ySPOZGzHn6NEkRCwgBwGLwtoKEXCbMbHBptGfIDh9A37m9TUD2pE/s320/540507_464397716987580_1816905848_n-360x225.jpg" width="320" /></a>The hype surrounding DARK TOUCH may have some viewers setting their expectations a little too high. After all, its not a great film - the pacing lacks a certain focus, and the overall tone may be too despairing for some - but it is a worthwhile film. It's well shot and directed, and made with a real passion and a real message that, sadly, holds great relevance in today's society. It's refreshing to see new talent spring forth with such an authentic and impassioned voice, but I couldn't help finding the whole en-devour a little disjointed and often lacking in subtlety. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Go in with an open mind, and you may enjoy it. I've been wrong before, man. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>5.5 Telekinetic Terrors out of 10</b></div>
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-57386249978149779152013-08-06T04:34:00.003-07:002013-10-30T01:58:46.612-07:00Review : The Conjuring (2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1piy1K2vhNe4CXE8qvuHHBh1hxJ_t8G2h3bgDYR0CBGtJW7v9OhD3gakpE1LcrMCQ1CO-8dqZFDnImJwJzLWhZlPJJjHaFaTdVO2wSdjlfPN4RzZc2EfdCv3nqG4WlNmt_Q4hKBoNGHg/s1600/the-conjuring-poster-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1piy1K2vhNe4CXE8qvuHHBh1hxJ_t8G2h3bgDYR0CBGtJW7v9OhD3gakpE1LcrMCQ1CO-8dqZFDnImJwJzLWhZlPJJjHaFaTdVO2wSdjlfPN4RzZc2EfdCv3nqG4WlNmt_Q4hKBoNGHg/s640/the-conjuring-poster-1.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well hello again! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Horror Hotel is re-open for business. </div>
<br />
The perils of a new job, a new lifestyle, and taking a kicking from an 'as-yet-unspecified' illness, have led me to distance myself from the world of horror for a spell. I've been reading horror literature like a beast, (take a bow, Bryan Smith), but I haven't really been grooving on the genres cinematic output. Too much going on, as it were. A mind unsettled makes for a poor companion in the cinema stalls...<br />
<br />
That all changed when, out of the blue, I learned about a new horror film; (a ghost story to be precise), centered around the famous paranormal investigators, Ed and Lorraine Warren, (they of Amityville notoriety). A movie based on what they personally felt was their most disturbing case, and one kept under wraps until very recently, (and I won't divulge any details here). How could I resist? I love a good paranormal tale, even though by daylight I'm as skeptical and logical about such matters as can be; there's just something inherently terrifying on a primal level about a well-told spook story that never fails to freeze me blood and cut my imagination loose. As a rule, I always watch ghost stories alone, in the dark, with the shadows creeping around my shoulders for maximum effect as, (and all you horror aficionados will agree, I'm sure), it gets very hard to find effectively scary material out there. The more you watch and are exposed to; the less you tend to morph into a squealing little bitch.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
So what was it that inspired me to drag my feeble carcass from the ailment-bound comfort of my cavern and make the quest to my local theater to watch a film of the type that I swore I'd only watch under my own controlled circumstances? James Wan, that's what.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsJ97N9-klf896yGTlU4dcC8SyE6xGJAUBbd3-ZAY3uLzomJb9z35zDn20Ph6mH95Q6SgSqTVGwy7opqr1-sj2PXTaa_ZQbZLZ3vqGPw1BbBu-0yr6XrxFKDY6G-Iq5DmvySKLgPGHxE/s1600/conjuring02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsJ97N9-klf896yGTlU4dcC8SyE6xGJAUBbd3-ZAY3uLzomJb9z35zDn20Ph6mH95Q6SgSqTVGwy7opqr1-sj2PXTaa_ZQbZLZ3vqGPw1BbBu-0yr6XrxFKDY6G-Iq5DmvySKLgPGHxE/s400/conjuring02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
If ever the horror genre had a director who embodied the definition of underrated, its Wan. His first film, SAW was a huge success, and in some ways its commercial viability, (and its unending cycle of sequels), diluted the sheer display of passion and talent that Wan brought to the gory proceedings. I'm not a torture porn fan, however, and it was his second horror film, DEAD SILENCE, that sealed the deal for me, and in my mind, shone a light on this most bright and brilliant of horror masters. DEAD SILENCE received mixed reviews, but for me, it was one of the scariest and most authentically nightmarish film I'd witnessed since THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT. It spoke to the scared kid inside me, who still believes in the monster under the bed, the threatening whispers on the wind, and the utter fucking soulless evil that dwells in each and every doll on earth, <i>especially ventriloquists dolls</i>! What really baked my noodles though, was the films look...it felt like a love letter to the classic Hammer Horror films that haunted my youth, and was as visually beautiful as any film in recent memory. It felt at once both retro and contemporary. Minimal gore, maximum atmosphere and visual flair. I loved it.<br />
<br />
Wans next proper horror film was the far-better-received INSIDIOUS, a film of two halves in many ways, which scared me so badly I almost never got through the damn thing. Its uneven, yes, but it showcased a director reaching the peak of his ability, and one with a precise grasp on what truly scares us. <a href="http://thehorrorhotel.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/review-insidious-2011.html">You can read my review of the film here...</a><br />
<br />
So with total faith in the mans ability, I decided to lob my own rule-book into the fire and go see a ghost story with an audience. On the big screen. In the daytime. With my partner.<br />
<br />
I'm suitably ashamed of myself, but I'm glad I made the effort. Wan has went yet another step further in cementing his place as a modern horror master.<br />
<br />
As THE CONJURING opens, it becomes immediately clear that this work is a bedfellow of INSIDIOUS...the music, the drum-tight tension and the claustrophobic atmosphere are all present and correct. Some may find it to be a little too close in style and content to the film that precedes it, but there's a whole lot more going on here than an artist simply repeating past glories. This is a film made by an artist who understands the genre in the same way John Carpenter and Dario Argento once did; as a breeding ground for nightmares, in which all the tricks in the box can and should be used to bring the audience right to the brink of total fear, then push them straight over the edge.<br />
<br />
The films setting, that of the halcyon days of the 1970's, not only serves to ground the story in a sort of culture-born supernatural-tale authenticity, but lends Wan and his supremely talented crew the opportunity to build, from the ground up, a film that feels in every way, like its been lost for decades in some dusty attic somewhere, and has been discovered, dusted off and mined for all its worth. This is as close to watching a horror film onscreen in the seventies as my generation is gonna get, and its glorious. In much the same way that Ti Wests HOUSE OF THE DEVIL transcended its 80's inspired feel and actually seemed to embody the era it emulated, THE CONJURING is as damn near time-travel as your gonna get in this CG infested shit-storm we call 2013. The soft browns and yellows of its subdued color pallet, the wide shots, the zoom ins, the costume design, the music and the performances all feel like they were ripped out of time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKvOXS_qsvJSo7PsROY2Vv805z9qRw3AwLqyibpUN8psp8JxDSgqT9N5w-mu0IDNYnfglLhtuy3PHEDpq4aIFd3VVl7wWOViwr6ACn5kmlOv7OulYmThgyayDifGCxAr6reXmGEreH2E/s1600/CJD-01983r-560x373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKvOXS_qsvJSo7PsROY2Vv805z9qRw3AwLqyibpUN8psp8JxDSgqT9N5w-mu0IDNYnfglLhtuy3PHEDpq4aIFd3VVl7wWOViwr6ACn5kmlOv7OulYmThgyayDifGCxAr6reXmGEreH2E/s320/CJD-01983r-560x373.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Anyone who remembers being a kid and watching THE AMITYVILLE HORROR on television in the early 80's, and has fond, frightening memories of doing so, is probably going to love this thing. Its among the most visually appealing films I've seen in recent years, of any variety.<br />
<br />
I know, I know..."Nobody gives a fuck what you think of its artistry, you cineaste loser! IS IT SCARY?!?!", I hear you cry.<br />
<br />
Yep. Its pretty fucking scary.<br />
<br />
There's very little you won't have seen before. After all, ghost stories often tread the same or similar paths, and its been this way since the sub-genres inception, but the scares are brought forth with such skill, and the tension is honed with such precision that what <i>at first</i> seems like a run-of-the-mill, (albeit beautiful) ghost story, very slowly creeps up on you unawares until, before you even realize it, has you firmly freaked out and at the mercy of its ever-building sense of evil-chaos. Wan has taken all his previous experience and honed it, reshaped it, and given it a new, more subtle edge that could well see THE CONJURING becoming every bit as beloved as INSIDIOUS, perhaps even more so. Like father, like son...<br />
<br />
Is it as scary as INSIDIOUS? I'm not in a position to answer that yet, sadly. I saw Wans last work under my own set of rules and it ruined me. THE CONJURING didn't quite have the same effect, but it never could have, being that I saw it under circumstances far removed from my usual self-imposed 'fear-zone'. I was properly frightened though, and would dare to say that when I catch it again, at home as the autumn leaves fall...then yes, it'll probably be more than the equal of INSIDIOUS. Its more relate-able, for one thing. Better directed for another, and most importantly, it feels like <i>this could very well happen to your family.</i> And that's a trait that the second half of INSIDIOUS arguably jettisoned in favor of astral surrealism and night-terror imagery.<br />
<br />
Under the correct circumstances, THE CONJURING could well rank among the scariest film I've ever seen; right alongside SUSPIRIA, BLACK CHRISTMAS, EL ORFANTO, THE CHANGELING and yes, good old DEAD SILENCE and INSIDIOUS, ( we never speak of ARACHNOPHOBIA...<i>never!</i>). Time will tell, but the films basis in reality, (or at least the supposition of reality), and its initially subtle sense of dread that builds to outright demonic fuckery, should be enough to scare most of the populace out of a few nights sleep at the very least.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCcPMwAxnqmdExNNH-A0dN8RQe54LbJKvRDwB_zGQKPBYWwDlfXRUToXoxZCZc9jcNTtx-Dmr6U3WuQT52artUf-uB7eUbqH5r2nMfrWxCrzYhKhg__0cdNW3Y79RvR6YW6Hsez5j7Yc/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCcPMwAxnqmdExNNH-A0dN8RQe54LbJKvRDwB_zGQKPBYWwDlfXRUToXoxZCZc9jcNTtx-Dmr6U3WuQT52artUf-uB7eUbqH5r2nMfrWxCrzYhKhg__0cdNW3Y79RvR6YW6Hsez5j7Yc/s400/images.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I must note once more that Wans direction is bolstered by an absolutely outstanding cast and crew. Everyone treats this shit like its 'The Last Great Horror movie'...<br />
<br />
It's got a brilliant cast, headed up by the ever-sexy Mrs Bates, playing Lorraine Warren, and the probably equally ever-sexy Night Owl as her old man, Ed. Both actors put in fantastic performances, and are supported by a very impressive host of secondary characters; not least the kids. Yep, this fucker features not one, not two but <i>six </i>child actors, all female, and the all knock it out of the park. In one seriously frightening sequence involving little more than a shadow by a door and the performance of one young actress, your guaranteed to pee down your leg a little bit. (Don't be ashamed...your not alone in this.)<br />
<br />
The real star, for my money though, was Lili Taylor. Haven't seen her in a long time, and as my last memory of her is linked to her unfortunate appearance in the stunningly horseshit remake of THE HAUNTING, its probably with good reason. Rest assured she's brilliant here. Portraying an ordinary, loving family woman who's slowly torn asunder by the evil infesting her home, she brings a real warmth and heart to the show. I loved her.<br />
<br />
Cinematography on the film is spellbinding. Much like Carpenters best moments, (hi there, HALLOWEEN), the camera seems to prowl the house with a sentience all its own. Its at once involving and very disconcerting. A scene featuring a (possible) threat under a bed, has the camera spinning all damn directions, and another see's it roll overhead as a character simply walks down a dread-drenched hallway. The overriding impression is that the camera is <i>watching</i>, very stealthily and with evil intent. Its a trip just rolling with this thing.<br />
<br />
The soundtrack, and all the sound design, harkens back to INSIDIOUS and its freakishly satanic scoring. It's even better realized this time, however, with every musical beat mirroring the demonic imagery perfectly, and the sound design is just fucking chilling.<br />
<br />
As I stated earlier; Wan knows all the tricks and has found new, clever ways to make them fresh again. it;s all here...the subtle scares, the big scares, the devilish imagery, the music, the atmosphere...this is as good as modern horror cinema gets.<br />
<br />
Everyone should see this film; whether your a genre fan or not. It may well be the first horror film since THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS to garner attention come the award season, but all that is just who-gives-a-shit material. This is just damn fine cinema, and the perfect way to introduce friends and family to just how inventive and entertaining horror can be when in the right hands.I don't know how much of this story is true, and nor do I care. Give me creepy demonology and holy terrors and I'm in.<br />
<br />
This is pure horror, and a film that will stay with you long after experiencing it. There's no gore to speak of, no sex and only a sprinkling of violent imagery. No...THE CONJURING received its R/15 ratings simply because its <i>fucking scary.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
That's reason enough to see it, right there. Now get going...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">10 Hand-claps out of 10</span><br />
<br />
<i><b>Authors Note</b> : As usual, I avoided all the trailers before seeing THE CONJURING. I've now seen them after viewing the film, and they do give away a great deal of the films scares; certainly within its first 45 minutes. Please, please, please AVOID all trailers for this and other horror cinema. The suits have no respect for the art-form and are more than happy to ruin or depress the experience simply to make a buck. Fuck them. Always go in blind and show the artists the respect their work deserves -Kyle.</i><br />
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-28930593565503036682013-05-21T01:20:00.002-07:002013-10-01T00:11:04.757-07:00Review : Maniac (2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOWz117hAdMSH22itCfrxWJV3kPjf079fLCps3ic4Y-usFPwu7QxYG4QW5S3Jdp5Z8JlC1n0p0zTDyJIZo1utsA2c6Y-AXwkcsgnmKLuvBUFNWWUSZTW9pa92Cha9isTgq170VvXS1xc/s1600/maniac-2012-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOWz117hAdMSH22itCfrxWJV3kPjf079fLCps3ic4Y-usFPwu7QxYG4QW5S3Jdp5Z8JlC1n0p0zTDyJIZo1utsA2c6Y-AXwkcsgnmKLuvBUFNWWUSZTW9pa92Cha9isTgq170VvXS1xc/s1600/maniac-2012-poster.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Remakes don't half get a bum deal when it comes to the horror genre.<br />
<br />
Its understandable seeing as so many of them hurl headfirst into the grand chasm of mediocrity; be it Platinum Dunes and their relentless cash-grab knock-offs of classics such as NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET, or the nightmarish teen-centric likes of the PG13 PROM NIGHT.<br />
Its easy to forget that many are far superior to their originals, and some of them even transcend the genre to become cinematic classics in their own right, ( THE THING, THE FLY).<br />
<br />
After a long hiatus in the land of the living, I decided to return my most beloved genre with a risky prospect...A film of which I knew little and for which I cared even less. The Elijah Wood starring, MANIAC.<br />
<br />
Boy, am I glad I did. This film knocked it out of the park in every way imaginable, and will most certainly find its place among the hallowed few I mentioned previously. It's not only far superior to the source material, (while sticking close to it), but its something of a modern horror masterpiece in its own right. Easily the finest genre film of the year and right up there with the best of the decade, but I digress.<br />
<br />
For those unaware, or who have yet to be subjected to the original, MANIAC tells the heartwarming tale of a mans descent into bloody lunacy, via a penchant for re-imagining the women in his life, (or at least whom he <i>imagines</i> to be in his life to some degree), as perfect representations of feminine grace, beauty and companionship. A noble sentiment, sure, but our hero Frankie has taken objectifying women to some rather extreme conclusions. Namely, he scalps them, dresses up mannequins in their likeness and lives with them, as lovers, even as the rot sets in.<br />
<br />
Its not a tale for the faint of heart. The original is notorious for its unflinching depiction of violence to women, and its as gory as all hell. While a remake starring such a big name as Mr Frodo himself seems like a recipe for certain disaster, MANIAC 2013 goes right for the throat with merciless abandon from the offset. Its as unforgiving and unapologetic as any horror film I can think of. A bleak and tortured journey into a very particular madness that feels utterly authentic and jarringly painful. This is extreme horror in the vein of the French New Wave of terror cinema, (INSIDE, MARTYRS), and is sure to ruffle just as many, if not more, feathers, among those who experience it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7oiBlrN59Q8egSGAHruxOmnaGjn5VUlR7I3xf7YKEQZd1LHeJq3M8d-x5N2z5S4TyRKP-sGoQfR8LdwB1NvxdmnQvk6xs6zLnmq_SK-er_Q52DGyC9yGMXAQjTROHUWow-a9w0D_F3eY/s1600/Maniac-ElijathWood-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7oiBlrN59Q8egSGAHruxOmnaGjn5VUlR7I3xf7YKEQZd1LHeJq3M8d-x5N2z5S4TyRKP-sGoQfR8LdwB1NvxdmnQvk6xs6zLnmq_SK-er_Q52DGyC9yGMXAQjTROHUWow-a9w0D_F3eY/s1600/Maniac-ElijathWood-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Its no secret that Lucky McKee and Jack Ketchum's THE WOMAN was a crowd-killer of the highest order, mainly due its perceived exploitation of females. Of course, any thinking viewer could easily see that it was quite the opposite...a damning portrayal of masculine insecurity and the burning need to control the goddess' among us. MANIAC follows a similarly dark path, though this time the musings are focused on one mans psyche, past trauma's, and inability to reconcile his need for love and companionship with his urge to feel secure within his relationships. If THE WOMAN was a mirror on my fellow males own bullshit machismo, MANIAC is a daunting look into the very centre of what makes us tick. The need for understanding. The desire to hold onto those we love or believe ourselves to love, and the inherent neediness that drags modern man to his knees in a world of strong, driven women. Its a hard watch, but a worthwhile one for both guys and gals alike. Of course, not all of us go to the extremes that poor Frankie does, but that's besides the point. If cinemas great virtue is to elevate and/or exaggerate the human condition to bring us closer to some sort of understanding of ourselves, then MANIAC can only be perceived as a resounding success. It may share certain themes and ideologies with other classics, TAXI DRIVER and PEEPING TOM appear to be huge influences), but it blazes its own hellish trail with artful, thoughtful relish. Every single moment of the film is shot, edited, acted and sound-tracked to perfection to create a world that's hauntingly real.<br />
<br />
The first thing that becomes apparent is that MANIAC is, brilliantly, shot almost entirely through the eyes of Frankie himself. All we see is through Frankie's eyes, both physical and psychological. It serves to completely immerse us in his twisted world. We share his anxiety, his delusions, his nightmares, self-repulsion and yes, his violent means to quiet his demons.<br />
<br />
Seeing the world through Frankie's eyes is a damn painful experience, in more ways than one.<br />
<br />
Thanks in huge part to Elijah Woods incredible turn as the traumatised, tortured killer, we not only bare witness to all his vicious externalisations of his rage and fear, we come to feel like we're waling in his shoes. We see his dark fantasies in real time as they unfold. We come to understand how they control him and cut any chance at a normal life off at the knees. Frankie is far from a cut-and-paste villain; he's a monster created solely of circumstance, and one who fights constantly to lay his demons down. We come to care about him, even as we share in his sickening actions. Its as unpleasant as any cinematic journey I can remember, but is never less than mesmerising.<br />
<br />
We only see Elijah, the actor, under two circumstances, and both are very smart choices. When Frankie looks in a mirror, those huge open-heart-surgery eyes of Elijah's convey intense despair and horror, while underpinning the desperate isolation that dwells within him. Secondly, and even more telling, we occasionally see the world outwith his perception, and when we do, its during his most cathartic moments....while he kills. As the camera fluidly leaves Frankie's eyes, we come to see him outside his own body as he commits his grisly crimes. The impression is that of Frankie leaving his body, and his mind/prison, in those moments of release. Its the only times he's free, and by association, is the only time <i>we </i>are also set free.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGj_59jfEVqAJzEbssFzi5DvMa1EvqJahBVz1jMYdD87lscoTPeKOzvvv5o1MU8A7Jf8Hz43O4JpTBFtbXNUpEv0UhYbIRvj27rtHbbO90c40wZVyDy9iI1ZWWrqi5Pf_YHAIVssitEc/s1600/maniac-image05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGj_59jfEVqAJzEbssFzi5DvMa1EvqJahBVz1jMYdD87lscoTPeKOzvvv5o1MU8A7Jf8Hz43O4JpTBFtbXNUpEv0UhYbIRvj27rtHbbO90c40wZVyDy9iI1ZWWrqi5Pf_YHAIVssitEc/s1600/maniac-image05.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The whole concept works brilliantly, bypassing gimmickry and heading straight into the hallowed halls bona-fide arthouse. It's no co-incidence that this film is directed by a Frenchman.<br />
<br />
Also of note, and equelly important is the soundtrack. Its aboslutly stunning, recalling era of the video nasty with its driven synth mantras, while sounding completely modern. Its a beautiful, haunting score that actually makes the film bearable, while complimenting is inherent tragedy. The last soundtrack to kiss visuals so passionatly and deeply, for me at least, was LOST IN TRANSLATION.<br />
<br />
By contrasting such brutal imagery with such lush soundscapes, the film paints a very vivid, very engrossing picture of life inside a severly damaged brain, but it doesnt stop there. Whereas the original is known for its filth and grime, MANIAC 2013 juxtaposes the sleaze, dirt and decay with clean, smooth and fresh visuals. We come to see the city as an extension of Frankie, both scum-ridded and capable of beauty. Again, very clever. I'm not sure what city the tale is supposed to take place in, but perhaps its every city. Every fucked up concrete behemoth that's equal parts gutters and glamour. (For more city-ridden horror cinema, both good and bad, check out<a href="http://www.casinotoplists.com/the-best-and-worst-of-horror-films-set-in-las-vegas"> Horror Films In Las Vegas</a>, folks)<br />
<br />
MANIAC caught me completly off my game. Its sickeningly violent in a way few films can ever hope to reach, its almost pronographic in its detail to not only the ugliness of the world but its beauty too. Art that pushes boundaries is always welcome in my dojo, and MANIAC takes us all the way into the dank, creeping corridors of ruined childhoods, lost souls and seriously, <i>seriously</i> fucked up mental illness. It aint called MANIAC for nothing. This is the real deal. Its a hypnotic, techically dazzling film that scrapes away at your soul and leaves you drained, sore and satisfied. This one will stay with you for a very long time.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">10 Living Dolls out of 10</span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-57578468013655276972013-03-15T01:13:00.001-07:002013-03-15T01:16:24.132-07:00Guest Review - Molly MariDawn Lampth : The Selling (2011)Hi folks.
Hotel management here.<br />
<br />
As some of you may be aware, and many others surely are not, Ive been hard at work on creating my own horror fiction for some time now. Being the lazy bastard that I am, and never one to work any harder than is absolutely necessary, its taken up a great deal of my time, (I'm a far slower writer than most, though I like to delude myself into believing of time being a 'sacrifice on the alter of quality').<br />
<br />
Ive recently been sending forth samples of my fictional work to all and sundry and have been very grateful to receive some very positive responses, (and no few accusations of being a demented, pervert - not least of all by my own dear mother!), and have put my own work at the forefront of all my unsavoury endeavours for the time being.<br />
<br />
Anyway, some publishers have shown significant interest in my work, and Ive been offered a contract to produce a number of novels, with the deadline for the first being this coming June. In the tiny, precious moments of sobriety, Ive been writing, editing and sweating my ass off to get my work complete. While nothing has yet been signed by myself, the offer is on the table, but for now, my mission is to use this deadline to get my first work complete, so that should I chose to accept the contract, I'm all set to begin a fruitful and professional business partnership. This has comprised of a healthy diet of staring into space, pondering how many ways you can dissect the human body, and drinking copious amounts of scotch while wearing a smoking jacket.<br />
<br />
I kid, though my mostly intentional alcohol problem and my constant pandering to the author stereotype has led to the Hotel becoming somewhat run-down and lacking in content. There are still some nice rooms here though - our torture chambers are second to none, and the cellar houses some very gifted 'Beasts' who will happily pleasure our guests, males and female alike - and I have brought on-board some trusted, well-mannered and able employees to help keep this thing flowing. I'll still be reviewing, and will continue my tirade against all things undeserving of the title, 'Horror', while celebrating all the wonderful things that do our genre proud, when I can. A fresh Horror Hotel Cinema piece will be going up tomorrow and I have a new section of 'True Life Horror' on the way this week for the particularly dark-hearted among you. Also, I'll drop up some less detailed, 'pocket reviews' from day to day to help inform on what I've been watching and how I felt about it.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, my dear friend and fellow horror geek, Molly MariDawn Lampth has provided us with the first of many guest reviews, that will vary in size and style. The film she has so kindly reviewed has managed to slip past me unnoticed till now, so I myself am looking forward to checking it out. The review is short and sweet, like Molly herself, so please have a read. It sounds like fun.<br />
<br />
Take it away, Mol....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
THE SELLING (2011)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAfiyZIC9MITZ6Sj1V4L3c6EclvzGgBWrDy4RY-WthEzC-cNRMlDXhXyvDYQAZ4p53hS5Y8Rm5oSVC_z2gDzm99T3heLkBc28rtVYizxJAqiV2XKIh7bmxLEwEJnJLlb2B1ph3LRq0S9g/s1600/MV5BMjI0ODYwNzY0MV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNTUyMTkxOA@@._V1_SX214_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAfiyZIC9MITZ6Sj1V4L3c6EclvzGgBWrDy4RY-WthEzC-cNRMlDXhXyvDYQAZ4p53hS5Y8Rm5oSVC_z2gDzm99T3heLkBc28rtVYizxJAqiV2XKIh7bmxLEwEJnJLlb2B1ph3LRq0S9g/s320/MV5BMjI0ODYwNzY0MV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNTUyMTkxOA@@._V1_SX214_.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>A too-honest-for-his-own good real estate agent has to sell a haunted house before its all too real ghostly inhabitants ruin his life.</i><br />
<br />
I was fortunate to watch The Selling, talk about funny campy and just plain fun for a horror film. I loved Barry Bostwicks part in the film. He was nicely convincing in his small role in this fun as horror film. They cast the movie perfectly. I had no trouble with any of this film once I took it in the right context and gave up the idea of being scared. What a lark. I love haunted houses and have many real life experiences of them. Some spirits are actually funny to hang with and cause little to no mischief. I am very glad I have never experienced a haunting like the one portrayed here. To be possessed with evil is not something to mess with. I am trying hard not to give anything away but the way this all ended was delightfully unexpected. Please be sure to watch even the credits or more fun and surprises.
Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-21367494261901246332013-03-04T04:59:00.006-08:002013-03-04T09:53:28.606-08:00Double Review : The Walking Dead - Season 3 - Episodes 11 and 12<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Here be spo<span style="font-size: large;">il<span style="font-size: large;">ers. Enter <span style="font-size: large;">of your own free-will.</span></span></span></i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I AIN'T A JUDAS</span> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzItknGnwFkcUJnfptvy68l5R5YFJYxHfBrSrOqqSszhn-lk85OLI19pIMBBTJY3bQn2_PEETAnYUilq3945Y6nYDMf8WTlMeoAyGBbxXVWw8RWjSN4rzoJWVIMNbmZ6aHVrjtuCcyAk/s1600/wd-judas3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzItknGnwFkcUJnfptvy68l5R5YFJYxHfBrSrOqqSszhn-lk85OLI19pIMBBTJY3bQn2_PEETAnYUilq3945Y6nYDMf8WTlMeoAyGBbxXVWw8RWjSN4rzoJWVIMNbmZ6aHVrjtuCcyAk/s400/wd-judas3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After the tension and terror of last weeks finale, you'd be forgiven for thinking that we;d be hurtling straight ahead into the war between Rik and Phil, but not so. That vicious little play by The Gov was nothing more than a prelude to a bloody, feral kiss. And like all kisses worthwhile...its the waiting that really makes it worthwhile.<br />
<br />
This weeks episode trades action and horror for character and nostalgia, as we slow down, catch our breath, and spend some time with our gang. Its an almost action-free zone, but only if you consider excellent set-up, character interactions that sizzle, and a re-union of long lost buddies to be lacking in action. Not to mention, we finally learn the whereabouts of Tyreese and his chums, and its quite a shocker.<br />
<br />
The main focus of I AIN'T A JUDAS, is in fact, Andrea. Now before this gets your titties in a twist, it should be stated that for the most part, she merely acts as a conduit for the coming events. Like most of the season, she remains frustratingly indecisive, but whereas before now, many have saw her lack of horror at Phil's actions as baffling...now its taking on a different tone, and one that altogether more satisfying, and interesting.<br />
<br />
First of all, I should say that I have little problem with Andrea. She hasn't been clued into what we, the audience, know about Woodbury, and yes, shes made some fucking stupid choices but I'd bet my bottom dollar many of us would make the same choices. After a year on the road, starving and, well, dying...I;d be more than willing to overlook a head-aquarium if it meant I could get some fucking sleep, a decent meal, and even a chance to get laid. Phil's a pretty convincing guy, and when you look at the whole situation through her eyes, its an easy spell to fall under.<br />
<br />
All that's changed now, as she finally learns just how cruel, devious and downright fucking murderously crazy this guy really is..and from her old friends no less...<br />
<br />
Although its far from a happy re-union. <span style="font-size: small;">Its a very enjoyable one, as we get to see the <span style="font-size: small;">group through <span style="font-size: small;">An<span style="font-size: small;">drea<span style="font-size: small;">'s eyes. After all, last time she saw these folk they were rellativel<span style="font-size: small;">y well<span style="font-size: small;">-rounded <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">individuals</span> <span style="font-size: small;">hanging out on a farm. Now <span style="font-size: small;">they're</span> all sorts of fucked up. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Not to mention, </span>Rik treats her like a stranger, and she's lost the trust of most of the group, but the mission they give her is the meat on the bone here. In short, they give her a sharp blade and a few ideas about how to handle the Phillip situation. Carol in particular shines in these scenes, as we grasp just how damn tough and no-nonsense shes become, Again though, its the dilemma that really hits. In short...kill the fucker in his sleep and lets all move on with life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wbFEIda6Oz-d9CWe5VVpqrB2FzBbbTfDf1PQzg-kBTWs7bwWILbDdGt2RWQzLDLU4xAaiiENQzycd3qHnYdV4yKRrAc_3wUuVOuwnq3LfJgBFiV1bnOz5f1dSw21uVUvTCWSCw49fxw/s1600/walkingdead_merlegun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3wbFEIda6Oz-d9CWe5VVpqrB2FzBbbTfDf1PQzg-kBTWs7bwWILbDdGt2RWQzLDLU4xAaiiENQzycd3qHnYdV4yKRrAc_3wUuVOuwnq3LfJgBFiV1bnOz5f1dSw21uVUvTCWSCw49fxw/s400/walkingdead_merlegun.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Now, we soon come to learn that while some part of her desires to do it, she cant go through with it. Its a pretty tantalising moment, as Andrea is no longer living n the dark. Shes fully aware of whats at stake...the lives, the violence, (hell, even the kids may die, as The Gov is now recruiting his very own Hitler Youth), and yet she still cant do it. Some will view this as typical Andrea nonsense, but I think it gives new dimensions to her character...<br />
<br />
Does she love him? Is she gong to stand by his side, no matter what? Knowing what she knows, will she take up arms against her previous group?<br />
<br />
Shes finally been afforded a bona-fide moral dilemma, and I'm invested in her more than at any previous time since season one.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<br />
Other moments of not this week are the brilliant scene between Hershell and Merle, where we get to watch these two accomplished actors eat up the scenery with their performances. Its also a helluva lot of fun having Merle in the group, and his humanity, what little there is of it, is peeking through the curtains. The situation that Tyreese's group find themselves in is a neat one too, and will pat off some way down the line when the choice comes on whether to raise arms against Rik, (who could blame them), or learn the truth about Woodbury, (not quite as likely). No doubt the two assholes in his group will join up with The Gov, but Tyreese? Who can say?<br />
<br />
For zombie-addicts, there is very little on display this week, though there are two things worth mentioning...theres a scene where Andrea takes a leaf about Michonnes book and 'de-claws' a zombie, (yep...that;s what I'm calling it), that is as brutal and gruesome as anything the shows offered up. Also, theres a really subtle addition of zombies in the distance in nearly every scene which really heightens the atmosphere and the sense that any conversation or interaction must be quick, as the shambling dead are ever vigilant. Its a clever choice and I hope we see a lot more of it in the future.<br />
<br />
I AIN'T A JUDAS is a crossover episode, but its one that's deceptively full of new information. Its a prefect set-up for whats to come, and it sets the stage for some clever moral dilemma's as our groups play this life and death game of 'musical chairs'. <br />
<br />
Oh, and the dressing down of Rik, by not only Hershell but by his own son, too? Brilliant. Emotional conflict is every bit as important in THE WALKING DEAD as is chaos and action. Another great episode in an arguably flawless season.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">CLEAR </span><br />
<br />
Episode twelve comes as a complete surprise in that it eschews the main story altogether for a more nuanced, even-paced snippet of life in the land of the dead. Arriving under the multi-faceted title, CLEAR, is an full-tilt example of THE WALKING DEAD at its very best. In many ways its the shows most resonant and powerful episode since the pilot. Content, atmosphere, depth and character all take precedent here; and coupled with some of the best writing the show has ever boasted and a striking performance from the mighty Lennie James, this very well may be the shows high-water mark thus far.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUV1xQPqcrCIxjPCdw6ArbYMwDA5XGH1Y2ULP_y-FqsJcKBkG6jcRmW_zV15MgDOOl63q4xmPU-srEPEy0FPf1xg0O2gKKzBYye2j_v0uAi8HoRoAzaibCtVIc1zQWj27c5rDiXERMp8/s1600/3-the-walking-dead3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUV1xQPqcrCIxjPCdw6ArbYMwDA5XGH1Y2ULP_y-FqsJcKBkG6jcRmW_zV15MgDOOl63q4xmPU-srEPEy0FPf1xg0O2gKKzBYye2j_v0uAi8HoRoAzaibCtVIc1zQWj27c5rDiXERMp8/s400/3-the-walking-dead3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
True, its potency would be lessened without the context in which we view it, but after three long years of watching Rik's unending journey into a darker world, its bittersweet and deeply sad to return to where it all began, and to have a light shone on just how damaging this world has become to the psyche's of those left to rot, while still breathing. It also stands as a brilliant reminder of what Andrea must have experiences last week. For us, the audience, this is our first trip back to visit Duane. And like Andrea viewed the group...with fresh eyes and no idea what hell has transpired...so do we view our old pal.<br />
<br />
CLEAR works as a stand alone episode, (or would make a particularly excellent double-bill with the pilot), in that it leaves behind most of the characters we know and love/hate, and focuses solely on the trio of Rik, Carl and Michonne. Of course, the return of Duane is a powerful development, but this is less his story than it is a singular story detailing just how far the apocalypse has pushed Rik out there. Daune acts a particularly crazy mirror, and helps us better understand Rik's ongoing transformation, (and just where he may end up if he's not careful). But this episodes bulk is all about understanding Rik, and how he's come to interact with those around him.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVFyHKqgVTcl6l_0QxJuk6WSdyM6B7qaYjIBulDx2hD2ZULkFBwPwS8t-sdeknGaQqyfDL_ISfOB4BHytKG_wQJDgGsvS4F0HTiuAplDL6OYx7vP8Dct6toN8cyFtIXlLMR_bDZZxw4c/s1600/MV5BMTc2ODAzMjc5OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjc1ODYxOQ@@._V1_SX214_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVFyHKqgVTcl6l_0QxJuk6WSdyM6B7qaYjIBulDx2hD2ZULkFBwPwS8t-sdeknGaQqyfDL_ISfOB4BHytKG_wQJDgGsvS4F0HTiuAplDL6OYx7vP8Dct6toN8cyFtIXlLMR_bDZZxw4c/s320/MV5BMTc2ODAzMjc5OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNjc1ODYxOQ@@._V1_SX214_.jpg" width="212" /></a>In taking the enigmatic Michonne along for the ride, CLEAR manages to breath new life into her one-note character. Within the stories runtime, we get to see a side of her thats been well and truly hidden until now. I would say its long overdue, but in truth, the thawing of her heart towards these people is all teh more powerful, and uplifting, because of the time its taken. I never thought I'd use the word 'uplifting' to describe THE WALKING DEAD, but there are glimmers of light in this episode that whisper to us that all is not yet lost for Rik. Every bit as importantly, the same can b said for both Carl and Michonne. No one hear is untouched by the horrors they endure. Yet the shows underlying theme of unity really comes to the fore here, and its god-damned refreshing to feel a little sun on your face when all is so dark.<br />
<br />
Between this episode and the previous chapter, the story has slowed from its breakneck pace to give way to some very unexpected nostalgia. A sort of nostalgia that is bot thrilling for the viewer yet unquestionably painful as we see how things have changed for these people. And two of the characters most in need of some real substance have been given the upgrade. <br />
<br />
Michonne has rooted herself firmly in my fave characters now. As what once appeared to be lack of depth is turning out to be the exact opposite. She and Rik have real chemistry, as does she and Carl, (who continues to impress as an ever-evolving bad-ass-with-a-heart), and its easy to view the three of them as a perfect tough-as-nails nuclear family for the zombie age.<br />
<br />
The set design in also impeccable in CLEAR, with Duane's domain looking like a survivalists wet dream meshed with a padded cell. Theres a real post-apocalyptic vibe going on there that really sells the idea of this once picturesque town going all to shit. And as I mentioned earlier, Lennie James is just fantastic as Duane. We're given a vivid interpretation of a man pushed way over the edge, and the scene between he and Rik as he described just how his boy went out, and expresses some home truths about the world they inhabit, would be the episodes highlight, were it not for its finale.<br />
<br />
We open with a hitchhiker, and one whom our trio steadfastly refuse to acknowledge. Its cold, its disheartening, but its realistic and in keeping with tone. As we see him disappear in their rear-view mirror, the scene feels complete, but in a somewhat genius move...the episode ends with our gang making the journey back. Not only do we have a grin-inducing scene that hints at redemption for our heroes, but not ten seconds later, we learn the fate of the hitchhiker. The poor bastards been slaughtered. Our characters don't miss a beat...no emotion is betrayed. This in itself would be perfect, but in the final shot we see their vehicle reverse, as they stop to retrieve his backpack. Its cold, blackly funny, simple and brilliantly evocative of where we're going with these guys. With no words, it says a great deal, and very quickly knocks the warmth from our hearts, or at the very least dims the flames.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PExxY9_EOdKf5MynpseytUyxFxe1meitdbK8rDyURmrYApmdefSYFbZt2mvef001A_9tkVm63DdSV5ee-typAiYNGiGOlPldkF93qw89ok6HTL4jUd8teuDpjgmB4vicgfcYw5QV4sw/s1600/THE-WALKING-DEAD-Season-3-Episode-12-Clear-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PExxY9_EOdKf5MynpseytUyxFxe1meitdbK8rDyURmrYApmdefSYFbZt2mvef001A_9tkVm63DdSV5ee-typAiYNGiGOlPldkF93qw89ok6HTL4jUd8teuDpjgmB4vicgfcYw5QV4sw/s400/THE-WALKING-DEAD-Season-3-Episode-12-Clear-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So, we've had an episode that reflects the calm before the coming storm, (and sets things up nicely with heroes on all damn sides), and an episode that actually knocks the quality of the whole damn thing up several notches. This has been the quiet before the cacophony. And in a season that has rarely paused for breath, its been a well-judged move on the creators. I AIN'T A JUDAS has finally given Andrea something vital to do, and set up some allegiances that i don't think anyone saw coming, and CLEAR....well, CLEAR is just fucking perfection. This season just keeps getting better and better. The stakes are incredibly high now, and everyone's potentially on the slab. With only four episodes to go...the end is coming, and its gonna get messy.<br />
<br />
And did anyone else notice that sheet in Morgan;s lair that said, 'Not Shitting you' on one side, and on the side with the bloody axe, said, 'Told you'? That was just fucking awesome... <br />
<br />
No score required, as always. <br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Authors Note : Its been brought to my attention that this episode was written by the new Showrunner He also wrote some of season 2's standout episodes, including EIGHT MILES OUT, (another semi-standalone tale), and PRETTY MUCH DEAD ALREADY....this bodes pretty damn well for next season, despite my loyalty to Glen Mazzara's vision.</i><br />
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-63091616766185386832013-02-25T06:49:00.000-08:002013-02-25T06:49:00.438-08:00Review : The Walking Dead - Season 3 Episode 10 - Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv3q8gIZ7YIcjjmlG5F97UVFNd-n6k85gYioiUA9hzign5DIdHLWG016i4PqYuCj-TsB-wHkmh6Qy32db7fDFRQ6UInIVl8bx7r3h7ROIvT0X2G2EgSrm9hXzl84ykDoggWIgz4KRs6iQ/s1600/TWD_TR_309_0810_0367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv3q8gIZ7YIcjjmlG5F97UVFNd-n6k85gYioiUA9hzign5DIdHLWG016i4PqYuCj-TsB-wHkmh6Qy32db7fDFRQ6UInIVl8bx7r3h7ROIvT0X2G2EgSrm9hXzl84ykDoggWIgz4KRs6iQ/s400/TWD_TR_309_0810_0367.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The long-awaited, ( a whole two months!), return of The Greatest
Thing To Ever Happen In Horror Television, came and went last week in an episode
that divided the critics and fans alike. Other than its nerve-shredding
opening, the episode boasted a markedly slower pace than what we've come
to expect this season. After the relentless action that
characterised the mid-season finale; many fans expected a full-throttle
showdown between our two leaders...an eight-episode blitzkrieg as it
were. Of course, that was never gonna be the case. We're only just <i>
beginning </i>the climb toward what will surely be an explosive and
satisfying showdown between our two groups. First, there are things that need
doing, folks...<br />
<br />
That's not to say that this season hasn't
had its moments of reflection. Its had many...Maggie and Hershells
scene as the daughter awaits the fathers death comes to mind as a
shatteringly powerful scene. Or how about Rik and Lori's final
conversation, when it felt to all of us that perhaps there was hope for
Rik, (and even Lori), to find themselves amid the losses, ( a moment
that's impact only deepened as we learnt what would come next). How
about Rik's first time holding his daughter, or Daryl and Carols
platonic yet deeply affecting relationship, expressed through humour amidst horror, and flirtation amidst devastation? Its been a season
that's found a perfect balance of plot and, and has continuously found new ways in
which to portray these characters continual growth/deterioration in this
environment they've been thrust into. Last weeks THE SUICIDE KING chose
to take a breather...let us gather our wits and get a chance to see
where our two groups were at. Glen had some brilliant and startling
scenes, and it became clear that Phillip has wandered all the way off
the ranch with death number two, of his daughter. Not to mention Rik has
lost each and every one of his marbles...<br />
<br />
Some saw it
as an unwelcome return to season 2's ponderous pacing, others such as
myself saw it as a much-needed lull in the action to regain composure.
Its been heralded as the seasons worst episode, but from a storytelling
standpoint, its difficult to see why. We KNOW a storm is coming, we KNOW
there will be inevitable losses, and its in the anticipation of these
events that the episode found its strengths.<br />
<br />
If last weeks episode was less 'fast' than it was 'furious', in dealing with
characters mental turmoil and rage through the medium of words, then
HOME comes at the material with a whole different perspective. THE
WALKING DEAD is arguably at its very best when it forces our characters
to make decisions on the spur of the moment. In a show like the
mesmerising BREAKING BAD, its all about he dialogue, but with a show set
in a desperate post-apocalyptic hell-world, character growth often has a
far stronger impact when its told through actions, and not words. <br />
<br />
And
with that said, you can rest easy, my attention deficit disordered
detractor friends, for this weeks HOME is a straight-ahead return to the
kind of relentless horror and action that Mazzara has poured into this
season. It boasts two of the best action sequences in the shows history,
and both serve the story as effectively as any scene of dialogue.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlga4Z3o_HkbZ_VAd-Hx6TTupwJ6w2B5QopKG411wJ1EYmlk4NI-SAaWM4hx7Q1LsmCtMNznQg_dkn-D4PbGMY8S6nRZzYd5C3u_sXGXfb2GJi1vAgPQSt4_Yrn5ZlibQj6AuOVlqxDY/s1600/the-walking-dead-home-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlga4Z3o_HkbZ_VAd-Hx6TTupwJ6w2B5QopKG411wJ1EYmlk4NI-SAaWM4hx7Q1LsmCtMNznQg_dkn-D4PbGMY8S6nRZzYd5C3u_sXGXfb2GJi1vAgPQSt4_Yrn5ZlibQj6AuOVlqxDY/s400/the-walking-dead-home-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
HOME
concerns itself with a number of plot strands...on one hand, we have
'The Daryl and Merle Show', wherein our two favourite rednecks wander
the undead woods, trading insults and hunting for anything that ain't
rotting yet. These scenes are an absolute treat for those of us looking
for more insight into who these two men are. The scenes may be brief,
but are well-written and brilliantly performed, and they really do bring
home just how far Daryl has come as a human being and as a man since he
left his abusive brothers side. In one scene, we have what seems a
throwaway line of dialogue where Merle ridicules his brothers sense of
direction, only to see later, via a sight gag, that Daryl is by far the
better woodsman, yet never feels the need or desire to say so. Theres
also a really touching scene when Daryl removes his top to reveal a torn
up and scarred back, and Merle, for the first time, realises the extent
to which his brother suffered at their fathers hands. Its a small scene
in a big story, but its one of the best the show has ever given us. Not
only does it help identify Merle as an actual human-being, but it
expertly draws on our love for Daryl, and gives a wordless insight into
his past that says more than any dialogue could. I think after this
scene, and taking Daryl in all context from his past to his present,
(and what appears to be his future as a bona-fide leader), its safe to
say that he's my favourite character on the show. I fucking love this
guy. The plot strand between the two brothers ends with a fantastic
action scene taking place on a bridge in which Daryl selflessly throws
himself into danger to save others, as Merle watches from the sidelines
trying to work out just what the fuck his sibling is doing helping these
strangers. Its mostly dialogue-free, but it gives us all we need to know
about the divide between these two men, while bringing all the carnage and zombie goodness we've come to expect from the show. Oh, and it manages to give us one of the
best kills of the entire season, (the car boot moment...you know the
one!)<br />
<br />
'The Daryl and Merle Show' may wrap up too quickly for most, (hell...I'd happily watch an entire season of these two cats, although they do have their own video game in the pipeline!), but theres other places to be, and things to see...<br />
<br />
We have the fallout in Woodbury after the
'terrorist attack', as we watch Phillip's wily manipulation of Andrea
continue. She may come across as about as far-sighted as Ray Charles,
but in many ways its understandable why she hasn't ran like hell from
this guy. Sure he has a nifty collection of undead heads, and kept his dead daughter in a cage
for periodic hugs and kisses, but he runs a pretty tight ship. And just when she's
starting to think perhaps this fucker is a tyrant, he does a one-eighty
and hands the towns leadership over to her...quelling her doubts in the
process (at least for the time being). He's a smart one, that crazy
bastard...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj1-A5VmxC1lzZEtqIJMS0ew6RHJ0vXnwyj-pyq5KiPZXgShgwZuX9UUuoBziLWzzM-iQ6cq5xveHbX-fw_pwrK8vb_s8w2V0vQX39l8A6QrPT2G-nT8_5fjiXbiDfSEeIgIDyJ0rcwHc/s1600/thewalkingdead-640x325.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj1-A5VmxC1lzZEtqIJMS0ew6RHJ0vXnwyj-pyq5KiPZXgShgwZuX9UUuoBziLWzzM-iQ6cq5xveHbX-fw_pwrK8vb_s8w2V0vQX39l8A6QrPT2G-nT8_5fjiXbiDfSEeIgIDyJ0rcwHc/s400/thewalkingdead-640x325.png" width="400" /></a></div>
And speaking of crazy, Rik has gone over the rainbow. Any thoughts that last weeks horrifying finale was a mere blip on our leaders radar is soon put to bed, as Rik spends almost the entire episode running around the woods outside the prison, endangering both himself and his group, while he searches for Lori, and redemption. These scenes, in lesser hands, could have come off as unintentionally funny, but we have a lot invested in this guy, and the scenes are very affecting, in no small part to the welcome return of a haunting melody, (or requiem), that debuted way back in the pilot. Theres a wonderful scene between wise old Hershell and crazy Rik, that really ground the whole thing, as Rik confesses to his hallucinations, while acknowledging that his mental condition is less than perfect. Now we're into the home stretch, its become one the this seasons greatest most tantalising themes...two deeply unhinged mad-men duking it out for supremacy, with a whole town and all our beloved survivors caught in teh crossfire. Things are going to get very bloody, very quickly, and where these two guys are gonna go is anybodys guess. Im personally hoping we see Phillip, (and Rik, who I fear is not long for this world), both make it to season 4. Characters this rich would be much missed, and if teh Shane/Rik dilemma was worthy of two seasons, surely Phillip and Rik;s conflict deserves room to breath. Heres hoping. For now though, one thing is for sure, there will be blood, and we get our first taste of it in the episodes climax.<br />
<br />
In what may well be the best directed, and most tense scene the show has ever put forward, rivalling the zombie horde on the highway and Rik's tank adventure in the pilot episode, Phillip makes his first move, and its a shocker...<br />
<br />
Not least of all the way this mini-siege arrives..<br />
<br />
Yep, just as we were all warming to Axel, and Coral was looking at finally getting laid, the poor guy takes a bullet to the brain, as Woodburys finest declare war on the prison, and all hell breaks loose. Its sad to see Axel go, but its one hell of a shocker, and a real 'jump out of the seat' moment. Before we know whats hit us, theres a gunfight kicking off in which it truly feels like no one is safe. I thought Glen was a dead man. And my beloved Hershell came damn close to biting the bucket as well. So did Rik, for that matter, as he's once again saved from certain death by good old Daryl. Its a strangely realistic gun battle we're treated to here, as no one really manages to shoot anyone for quite some time, other than my boy Axel, who's shot about a hundred fucking times as Coral hides underneath the poor fuckers body. Its a hugely intense battle, and with the surprise arrival of a truck full of zombies, delivered like some rotting Trojan horse into the prison, things only get more gripping. THE WALKING DEAD has always held firm to the belief that no character is safe, and its a position that really pays off in these sort of scenes. You really have no idea who's going down, or how bad they'll go out. As a statement of intent, it shows just how far The Governor is willing to go, and gives us yet another glimpse into just what floats this guys boat. He's having a fucking <i>great </i>time. Violence runs through this guys veins, and if this is merely his opening salvo, god only knows what he's got planned for our group.<br />
<br />
The episode ends with a close up of Rik's face, which tells us all we need to know about where he's going. His eyes a burning with rage and hatred. The guy has lost his wife, his mate and half his group. And as if this world isn't hellish enough to struggle though, now he's got <i>this</i> fucking mad-dog biting at his heels!? Hell no.<br />
<br />
HOME is perhaps one of the most balanced and suspenseful episode's we've yet seen, and it serves as one hell of an introduction as to where this ship is headed. With only six episodes to go, things are going to go straight to hell pretty soon. In the meantime, it'll be great to see how Merle interacts with the group, not to mention the fate of Tyrese's motley crew since they wisely fled from crazy Rik last episode.<br />
<br />
Ah, the possibilities....damn I love this show!<br />
<br />
One thing though...who the <i>hell </i>was that ninja driving the zombie truck?!<br />
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-15752849941851437262013-02-19T06:08:00.001-08:002013-02-19T06:12:41.547-08:00Horror Hotel Cinema - Hammer's 'The Phantom of the Opera' (1962)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_PvUC4hTftOXb3va2AgVswCBrnRZAU-CZA08iMZ-w67kWfnhAowlG3hYAklE9mnL5Y3RonW3L2Vfdrop4ypGuVAbaupw88UNfyMQSP1PgSPyxd8ztpxeVbxLRHXQY_8dKwz1YyTkRsc/s1600/phantom_of_the_opera_1962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_PvUC4hTftOXb3va2AgVswCBrnRZAU-CZA08iMZ-w67kWfnhAowlG3hYAklE9mnL5Y3RonW3L2Vfdrop4ypGuVAbaupw88UNfyMQSP1PgSPyxd8ztpxeVbxLRHXQY_8dKwz1YyTkRsc/s1600/phantom_of_the_opera_1962.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Forget your Gerard Butler musical nonsense and your slightly dodgy Dario Argento slasher from the late 80's, (no, not TERROR AT THE OPERA, which I adore....the other one, with that fucker from WARLOCK), this top notch little production from the studio that dripped blood, is a feast for the eyes, the ears and, well, maybe not the brain, but who gives a shit..its Hammer.<br />
<br />
That means gloriously over the top music, performances that scream brilliance and set design that never betrays the tiny budgets these horror classics were made on. It look sumptuous, as do the vast majority of Hammer's output, and its filmed in seriously glorious Technicolour. This one may be considered a lesser entry in the Hammer canon, not least of all because its sadly bereft of Cushing and /or Lee, but alongside Cheney's take on the classic character, this is perhaps the best of the batch. There are busty babes, lavish period atmosphere and a creepy-as-hell 'Phantom', so bin your girlfriends sappy lovey-dovey musical, and take a trip to Technicolour town with one of Hammer's timeless cinematic endeavours...and fuck Gerard Butler.<br />
<br />
Enjoy...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/COlwi3PUk0A?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-78727332285270658482013-02-11T03:56:00.001-08:002013-02-11T18:30:44.234-08:00Review : The Walking Dead - Season 3 Episode 9 - The Suicide King<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp9xzoqJKnMO5aOn2Z8XRh-7b2GLK_jWwXyIUIrnRr03ewVyqpzsZ2310uMA5J0MLqU9mYTqciUCBXpWxkfp_UEeB3u8MUDLnCnTKnruXJFYa11tGbL9F0p7s0BPV6OKzqfofvRuxAIp4/s1600/the-walking-dead-season-3-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp9xzoqJKnMO5aOn2Z8XRh-7b2GLK_jWwXyIUIrnRr03ewVyqpzsZ2310uMA5J0MLqU9mYTqciUCBXpWxkfp_UEeB3u8MUDLnCnTKnruXJFYa11tGbL9F0p7s0BPV6OKzqfofvRuxAIp4/s1600/the-walking-dead-season-3-poster.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's been a long bleak winter, man...I'm amazed we survived it.<br />
<br />
Watching the mid-season finale was a double-edged sword for all of us, wasn't it? Sure it was every bit as awesome as we hoped it would be, and it left us hanging on the wire in a most merciless manner, but damn...Soon as the episode ended, (well, perhaps a few hours later), and the heart started pumping at a rate less concurrent to fatality, we all felt the inevitable post high come-down, and what a fall it was.<br />
<br />
As good old 'Ned Stark of Westeros' would say....'Brace yourself....winter is coming'<br />
<br />
As Christmas and its merry corporate sponsors circled the waggon's to relieve us of our hard earned cash, buying bullshit we couldn't afford for our kids who didn't deserve it...we waited...<br />
<br />
As relatives long lost (usually for good reason), arose from the murk of the past to drink all our most expensive booze and eat all our overcooked and undervalued food...we waited...<br />
<br />
As Nicky Minaj's unfathomable fame continued on its gruesome ascent, unabated...we waited.<br />
<br />
And then came the real kicker, as the stupefying news reached the net that show-runner, Glen Mazzara, (the
man who dragged our favourite series up by the scruff of its neck, slapped
it about, and made it the vicious, unrelenting beast it was always meant
to be), was to be replaced in Season 4, and AMC shattered much of the
goodwill and yes, positive feedback, garnered by a man who truly cared
about his work and the show he was running. Still, beaten and bloodied...we waited....<br />
<br />
Yet, as good old 'Kyle Scott of The Horror Hotel' would say, 'Calm yourselves....the spring is coming'<br />
<br />
Finally, and after so much heartache, alcohol poisoning and drug-addiction, there is light at the end of the tunnel. The universe has decided to throw us a frickin' bone, and make Sundays a day to rejoice in the glory of all that is good once more...THE WALKING DEAD IS BACK!<br />
<br />
Yep, put down your suicide kit and throw away the dirty needles...you won;t be needing them anymore. The stellar Season 3 of the most visceral, unnerving and downright brilliant horror series of all time is once again with us. And I think I speak for all of us when I say, its been far, far too long.<br />
<br />
Welcome back, old friend, welcome back....<br />
<br />
<i>SPOILERS AHEAD - IF YOU HAVEN'T WATCHED YET, GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE!</i><br />
<br />
Or should I say, 'friends', because that's what picking back up with 'The Suicide King' feels like...a long overdue reunion, albeit one seeped in misery and violence. We've all grown to love these characters, and under Mazzara's tutelage, there's not one member of Rik's group who's expendable. The loss is felt every time we see one go, and its to Mazzara's credit that his merciless pursuit of the perfect TV thriller has suffered so many casualties. No one is safe.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1mnJnBQ0f-PjHPYKQVmJ1RkOHoXvk_v8PpX2IpiO0VD0RhOYEHZ6Qm1uAiXSrbALvR-TlMrpNNY_UWnqin2Mb6tBwyu8no6KUZoZYTERXwJBqx1bAdtJF53BLuE4s_F9Cgk-UoPkFzQ/s1600/The-Walking-Dead-09-Andrew-Lincoln-411x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg1mnJnBQ0f-PjHPYKQVmJ1RkOHoXvk_v8PpX2IpiO0VD0RhOYEHZ6Qm1uAiXSrbALvR-TlMrpNNY_UWnqin2Mb6tBwyu8no6KUZoZYTERXwJBqx1bAdtJF53BLuE4s_F9Cgk-UoPkFzQ/s400/The-Walking-Dead-09-Andrew-Lincoln-411x600.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
<br />
Episode 9 kicks off in whats now the shows default setting...'hit the fucking ground running'. Its an action-packed, heart in the mouth scene that picks up right where the mid-season finale left us so tortuously hanging...Daryl and Merle are about to square off....<br />
<br />
The scene is indicative of what this season has stood for...razor sharp writing and action that serves to deepen the characters, and enrich the story being told.<br />
<br />
When last we saw The Governor, he had just suffered through perhaps the most shockingly brutal brawl in terrestrial history, with the equally vicious yet far less insane, (I think), Michonne. He lost an eye in that battle, but he lost a whole lot more besides. With the 'second' death of his beloved daughter, the ever-loosening grasp he had on any sort of empathy or humanity has been brutally and tragically shorn away, and as we watch his gleeful emergence through the smoke during this episodes opening battle, it's immediately clear that the toll this new world has demanded is finally, fully being paid. He was never a beacon of sanity, but now, he's crossed even more lines. It seems like his desire to control his people and his environment is being replaced rapidly with a hatred for them; one that's long since been buried under a potent concoction of self-delusion and a fathers desperate love. With his eye now gone and the famous patch surely on the way, The Governors emotional descent is beginning to be matched by his physicality. The scars are on the surface now, for all to see, both literally and metaphorically, and it looks like we'll be seeing just how deep they run very soon.<br />
<br />
Even more disturbing is Rik's parallel journey into madness. I've often stated that the two characters mirror each other almost perfectly, with the only real differences, being that Rik's great losses came later than Phillips, and that his morality is more deeply engrained. Though now the rot is now fully setting in, the lines are becoming even more blurred between these men. There are some scenes late in this episode that really hit home just how far Rik's mental health has deteriorated. The final moments are, in a show that's no stranger to heartbreak and misery, among its most painful and affecting so far. As we watch Rik completely lose his grasp on reality in front of his full group, including his son, the shows sense of tragedy reaches perhaps a new plateau. His breakdown is all the more excruciating as its brought on by a recurrence of the situation that led to his wife's death. He's had no time to grieve or to find balance, and the losses just keep coming. And now, with the imminent approach of The Governor and his cult, it's not looking like he'll be getting any R&R anytime soon. <br />
<br />
More tears are shed this week as Daryl faces an impossible situation, and makes the choice to leave the group rather than leave his older brother behind. Its a frustrating choice, but its the only one a man like Daryl could make. The effect it has on Rik is very telling too, as it's clear he's come to truly rely on the man as a friend and as his strongest ally. It'll be very interesting to see where this story arc goes. Our characters are dropping like flies, either to death, despair or madness. Hell, even the normally collected and docile Glen seems to be reaching his limit with the madness this rotting world has brought in its wake. These people are the walking dead, indeed.<br />
<br />
In fact, its the women who are holding things together with the most success at this point. Be it Andrea's reconciling of a damaged and traumatised Woodbury, or Carol's painful yet philosophical approach to Daryl's departure, or even Suzie's nurturing of Rik's new born daughter...the female of the species seem to be coping with the horrors that surround them with wits, intellect and no shortage of understanding of whats important in the dying world. Its a subtle but much welcome change from the women of Season 2, and again, credit goes to Mazzara and the writers for giving the girls some real substance and merit in this tale. (Tyrells wife, though I haven't caught her name yet, seems like another capable, strong and grounded women that will only further elevate the show).<br />
<br />
The goodies don't end there, though. If you thought that insanity, power struggles, heartbreak and sorrow weren't enough, we now have yet more dilemma's to deal with...<br />
<br />
A third group of survivors, introduced in Ep.8 but now taking centre stage as vital and important players in our bleak tale. Their leader, Tyrell, is an instantly likable and identifiable character, as is his wife. They're moral code is yet to be broken down. Even when faced with an opportunity to improve their less-than-promising situation by use of force, they elect to fore-go this potentially life-saving choice...they choose to trust to human decency.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fByucsSGyy4NavGbtrpXmqlNdPIq2CXiE8eeMHUpRx4aLYPfHMVhBHS3FB_mON2JLwkffmawHtFeBRLG_YAIvpobsM8to_IrqBUrf9Il0zEAYOe9ndgIrNYELdDaZIo2td8R5L_6EyM/s1600/OB-WH619_walkin_E_20130209212006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fByucsSGyy4NavGbtrpXmqlNdPIq2CXiE8eeMHUpRx4aLYPfHMVhBHS3FB_mON2JLwkffmawHtFeBRLG_YAIvpobsM8to_IrqBUrf9Il0zEAYOe9ndgIrNYELdDaZIo2td8R5L_6EyM/s400/OB-WH619_walkin_E_20130209212006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Sadly, its an choice that doesn't pay off, as Rik's capacity for trust in his species has all but died. And that's where this fantastic episode leaves us hanging. Rik's losing his groups faith, he's publicly shown the true extent of the damage the new world has wrought on his mind and soul, and he's cast good people out into the cold, dead night.<br />
<br />
As an opener, you couldn't ask for more. THE WALKING DEAD continues its astonishing ascent to legendary greatness, and we still have seven episodes left. Sadly, as you sit in front of the box with your heart racing and your emotions roiling, you can't help but worry for the shows future. I'm sure things will work out fine, but it stings to think that the fella who handed all the naysayers their asses with this stellar season, will not be returning for Season 4. For these remaining episodes, though, THE WALKING DEAD is in the safest hands possible. The same can't be said for it's gallery of wonderful, tragic characters, but we wouldn't have it any other way. Mazzara and this show were made for each other.<br />
<br />
No score needed, as usual... you all know it gets the highest rating.Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-19637446668924019172013-02-08T22:46:00.003-08:002013-02-08T23:13:15.058-08:00Review : Spiders (2013)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGViVu1yS6Zjfit2v-c-FSFBi1sC-H3Vaq1nOffofIO5OHdL59kEiQj7QQJZClLh1SL5nmdZ4QAnLNxAM3D781aUl4NTpT-XOBbgm1_q9MqROTn7J_8HDqebxsmm8zfgmVOMVmVCNcU4M/s1600/5OIZ_zps5c1d2f37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGViVu1yS6Zjfit2v-c-FSFBi1sC-H3Vaq1nOffofIO5OHdL59kEiQj7QQJZClLh1SL5nmdZ4QAnLNxAM3D781aUl4NTpT-XOBbgm1_q9MqROTn7J_8HDqebxsmm8zfgmVOMVmVCNcU4M/s1600/5OIZ_zps5c1d2f37.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Its not every day that I come across a giant bug movie I find it hard to get behind, man. Give me some radiated insect, some hot and sultry scientist gal, some military hi-jinx and some city/town-wide destruction, and I'm popping smiles left and right, but somehow, this months SPIDERS failed to do it for me, in any way <i>whatsoever</i>. Let me attempt to pinpoint the reasons why, and maybe save you a buck or ten...<br />
<br />
First off...the plot.<br />
<br />
SPIDERS is your typical<i> 'space insects hurtle towards earth on a shuttle-fragment and once here presume to grow faster than Russell Crowe's beer-gut'</i> scenario. We've been here a million times before, and lets be honest, we don't give a good shit how the giant spiders get here, just as long as when they DO get here, they fuck shit up like the MC5 circa '69. Plots, characters, acting and drama almost always get a pass in these b-movies. They get by on charm, playfulness and yes, big-ass bugs eating hapless extras. Its not much to ask. Occasionally we'll get a serious take on this thing, (MIMIC comes immediately to mind), and some of them are even stone-cold classics, (THEM! still ranks as the big daddy of the giant creep-crawly flicks, and TREMORS resides among the all-time greats like a boss), but for the most part they're simply throwaway fun. Shamelessly made and slightly shaming to watch and enjoy. Not that such confliction of standards will stop us hungry horror fans...<br />
<br />
So, as a bug-movie enthusiast, and a well-known chronic arachnophobe, I jumped into SPIDERS with a mix of apprehension and boyish glee. A big bug bonanza made for the big screen sounded like just the ticket, man. Well you know what? It wasn't.<br />
<br />
The show starts off pretty strong, with a cool opening shot of some space-spiders scuttling amidst the corpses of a derelict space-hub, (is that what we're calling these things? I have no fucking clue...I'm not a scientist), that pans through the devastation wrought by the little eight-legged bastards, and out into open space, where we see some random meteors smash the 'hub' to shit. This, of course, sends our little buddies on a one-way trip to New York, (obviously), where they crash into the subway, set up home, and begin to grow at 'AN ALARMING RATE!!!!!!'. The usual...so far, so good. No complaints.<br />
<a name='more'></a>Even the introduction of the characters is passable. Its a scenario cribbed straight from a thousand other films of this ilk...deadbeat dad's kids think hes something of an ass-packet, invasion occurs, deadbeat dad steps up to the plate and saves his ungrateful little shits from becoming lunch, (don't kids in these films realise daddy has to work to buy 'em all that Ipod and Ipad <i>shit</i>!!??). Its WAR OF THE WORLDS on welfare. Again...so far, so good.<br />
<br />
Its somewhere around the ten minute mark, when the spiders are discovered, that the film begins to feel, well...flat. That's the best description I can think of for the vibe this thing gives off. Any bug movie fan knows the drill...we catch glimpses of the beasts, some useless characters are killed in gruesome but mysterious fashion, and lo and behold, by the time the second half of the movie is underway, we're dick-deep in insectiod mayhem. We're used to the slow build, but with SPIDERS, its nearly 45 minutes before anything of any note, or any action for that matter, takes place.<br />
<br />
We saw the spiders in the opening shot, albeit in much smaller form, so there's no mystery there as to the otherworldly appearance of the little fuckers, and the early kills are distinctly tension-free and bloodless. I know this is rated PG but so was ARACHNOPHOBIA, and that shit still gives me nightmares <i>to this very day</i>. There's no spine-tingling anticipation at all here. And when thats coming from the mouth of a giant pussy like me, who cringes at the mere <i>mention</i> of spiders, you know you got yourself some major issues. This film should have worked for me on the insects alone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ly1ngXeLMCLGSYIzUH6NPrs4v4HkxsKf4ZRd7NbZCLTaEaTY6_H6xX9OjunPPAnVRWkJQR82ObthyD_-Ul-CaOx_ONqE3rdMNP1Sm6bkPs_AI0LD2VzA8stVK_8TZiUaC_Tmf9uCpdY/s1600/601057_295970890506301_2116788838_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ly1ngXeLMCLGSYIzUH6NPrs4v4HkxsKf4ZRd7NbZCLTaEaTY6_H6xX9OjunPPAnVRWkJQR82ObthyD_-Ul-CaOx_ONqE3rdMNP1Sm6bkPs_AI0LD2VzA8stVK_8TZiUaC_Tmf9uCpdY/s320/601057_295970890506301_2116788838_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The special effects really do hurt the film, too. They're distractingly bad, and the creatures themselves have no personality. These are space-spiders, man! Have some fun with this shit! The CG looks extremely dated...bewilderingly so. If you happen to see this thing, and I'm sure many of you will, just compare the effects here to the work in EIGHT-LEGGED FREAKS, and that film is around<i> ten years old</i>. There's no comparison to be made. ELF stands up on its effects work to this day. In SPIDERS, the creatures don't only lack personality, they lack the most vital component required for CG to convince in any real way...weight. There's no sense of pressure or of gravity with these things. They just seem to float around the screen like they wandered off the set of a ScyFy Original. And that's what this film feels like, a low-budget, DTV bug flick. Were it to hang with its peers, such as SHARKTOPUS, OCTO-MOM and GARGANTUA-WHATEVER-THE-FUCK, it would stand as one of the better looking kids in the gang, but as a full release...now way, man. ELF was a cinema experience...SPIDERS is a six-pack-and-in-your-boxers experience.<br />
<br />
And I'm gonna use that much-loved little b-movie homage as a comparison here because, well, why wouldn't I? They both have similar plots, similar beasties and similar action scenes, but one of them has oodles of charm, funny dialogue, great effects, brilliant action, a genuine 1950's bug movie vibe and a sense of goofy fun...the other one is SPIDERS.<br />
<br />
I don't wanna beat down on this thing for long, man. It is what it is. Its a cheaply made, well-meaning b-movie that sadly lacks the sparkle and the wit that drives the best of these films. Its punching above its weight and would find itself much more at home among the legion of VOD releases of similar ilk. It's action falls flat, its effects are sub-par and, while the characters are likable, (though it doesn't help that this thing stars an actor from STARSHIP TROOPERS, drawing yet more comparisons to far greater films), there's no sense of tension or danger in the whole thing. It's a spider movie that can't elicit even the mildest shiver from a deeply arachnophobic reviewer. It's not the <i>worst</i> giant insect movie out there, but it's a real disappointment to anyone expecting this decades EIGHT LEGGED FREAKS. My advice...go watch that film instead.<br />
<br />
Sorry guys, this ones a dud.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">3</span> </span>Dr Smirnoffs out of 10</span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-69410530725842398722013-02-08T12:10:00.001-08:002013-02-08T12:18:14.062-08:00Horror Hotel Cinema - The Prowler/Rosemary's Killer (1981)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKs5Ebv4kWO8Qm6d275IhyphenhyphenI8ALJzi2oyv1gg_BFC4ZRUT2mDOFmZddJ72rPCdd9Hy4ovDawQCbjsRPeiclQgJ9AwwagFBUPGCNzaFoICCJHkom49gFQJMwVTYra0hlqrfczq80GIWcxc/s1600/tumblr_lje99fblmc1qzr8nao1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKs5Ebv4kWO8Qm6d275IhyphenhyphenI8ALJzi2oyv1gg_BFC4ZRUT2mDOFmZddJ72rPCdd9Hy4ovDawQCbjsRPeiclQgJ9AwwagFBUPGCNzaFoICCJHkom49gFQJMwVTYra0hlqrfczq80GIWcxc/s1600/tumblr_lje99fblmc1qzr8nao1_500.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Just look at that one-sheet.... <br />
<br />
I first came across THE PROWLER when I was a little kid. I remember seeing this one-sheet, (in VHS cover form) in our local video store, and being <i>thoroughly</i> freaked out by it. Of course, I was around 7 or 8 and so didn't see the actual film till later....<i>much later </i>as it happens. <br />
<br />
I finally got my bloody mitts on this underrated slasher sometime around 2009, and it proved worth the wait for a number of reasons. The first and foremost being the effects work by none other than Tom Savini. The kills in this thing are among the most brutal of the slasher's golden era, and still hold up today as some prime nasty shit. Its a violent little bitch of a film, folks.<br />
<br />
The second reason to give this film some eye-time is the killer himself. He's a fearsome looking bastard with his WWII fatigues and his prediliction for sharp objects.<br />
<br />
The third, is the films atmosphere. It's a genuinely creepy little movie that, while slow in parts, has a real 80's flavor to it that's hard to resist.<br />
<br />
Anyway, you came here not to read, but to view. So I'll shut the fuck up, and you can kick back and enjoy...have fun...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://3.gvt0.com/vi/XrI_XrliC38/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/XrI_XrliC38&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/XrI_XrliC38&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-3292111653018383502013-02-08T09:23:00.004-08:002013-02-08T09:23:54.908-08:00Check out this Teaser for Brian Keene Adaptation DARK HOLLOW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHhvT4jNQcbSsl37mONBckrH6p5iK28qs_ENGBBCD3V5TKVGlCz9sW8DhbB92NaDwT7xDRUccL6jjN9Y-nRQpmMpplNH0g9TgH4rf3bKW5nhdK4Guo0F7rYyX1KkR-Tyiza-NKlVNVm8/s1600/DARK_HOLLOW_teaserPoster_low.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHhvT4jNQcbSsl37mONBckrH6p5iK28qs_ENGBBCD3V5TKVGlCz9sW8DhbB92NaDwT7xDRUccL6jjN9Y-nRQpmMpplNH0g9TgH4rf3bKW5nhdK4Guo0F7rYyX1KkR-Tyiza-NKlVNVm8/s640/DARK_HOLLOW_teaserPoster_low.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For anyone who's been unlucky enough to be subjected to the fuck-awful adaptation of Brian Keene's wonderful novel GHOUL, <a href="http://thehorrorhotel.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/review-brian-keenes-ghoul-2012_8.html">(reviewed here)</a>, and even more importantly, for any of his fans out there who were as devastated as I was to see his work being dragged through the gutter...rest easy. All hope is not yet lost of seeing a halfway decent interpretation of the man's work. Maybe even a great one...<br />
<br />
GHOUL may well be consigned to the cinematic dustbin since Chiller fucked it up for countless future generations, but someone else is having a stab at Keene's work; taking on one of his most powerful and accomplished works...the erotically charged and creepy as hell, DARK HOLLOW....<br />
<br />
Maybe I'm a sucker for punishment, or maybe I'm just an eternal optimist, but I have a good feeling about this one, and its mostly down to learning who's behind the camera this time. Its none other than Paul Campion, who impressed me mightily with his 2011 horror gem, THE DEVILS ROCK, <a href="http://thehorrorhotel.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/review-devils-rock-2011.html#more">(reviewed here)</a>, That film kicked a <i>lot</i> of ass, was tense and gory as hell, and felt authentically demonic. It also featured one hell of a villain.<br />
<br />
Now, if you've read the novel, DARK HOLLOW you'll know just how important it is to get the villain right, (and don't worry those of you who are green, neither I <i>nor</i> the teaser will give the game away), and if you've seen THE DEVILS ROCK, you may, like me, find Campion to be the prefect choice. If he can bottle the novels mix of sexual depravity, occultism and violence, (and THE DEVILS ROCK says he can!), then we could be onto a real winner.<br />
<br />
So keep your chins up, Keene fans and non-fans alike. His work may well be tended by far more caring hands in the future, and the teaser is very promising. Looks like the novels dark vibe is intact. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/s2jRFZkVffA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-58610034066891264062013-02-08T08:54:00.003-08:002013-02-08T12:51:34.389-08:00Review : Brian Keene's Ghoul (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbH8-kuffe15jFwSmPYbaQqZRZmXKjIImQ1CDDI2ogV8l9FFKjruF3lVoWuIx14Q_EUpwtXn9Ze7UcnPwNRchO-k7UaQY8xc5_PEO1r19OMZZW0joBKa-KQllHzpRtwErhXVocFgoKI8U/s1600/193638373X-2-662x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbH8-kuffe15jFwSmPYbaQqZRZmXKjIImQ1CDDI2ogV8l9FFKjruF3lVoWuIx14Q_EUpwtXn9Ze7UcnPwNRchO-k7UaQY8xc5_PEO1r19OMZZW0joBKa-KQllHzpRtwErhXVocFgoKI8U/s640/193638373X-2-662x1024.jpg" width="412" /></a></div>
<br />
In a year of vast disappointments none has cut so deep as this
long-awaited adaptation of one of Brian Keene's most beloved and admired
novels...GHOUL.<br />
<br />
Keene is something of a legend in my
world. Of all the genre writers out there today; Keene is the true heir
to the throne left heartrendingly empty with the shock death of Richard
Laymon, (many years later and it still stings like hell). Its no secret that Keene was something of a
Laymon fanatic himself, and it shines through much of his work, (his novel CASTAWAYS was an ode to the great mans work, especially the Beast House/Malcasa Point trilogy), but Keene
quickly found his own voice in the over-saturated world of horror lit,
and managed very quickly to rise to the top of the heap alongside Edward
Lee, Bentley Little, Jack Ketchum and a few select others, as a truly <i>ferocious</i>
writer with a singular vision of what his brand of horror would be. His
books are nothing short of fantastic. <i>All of them</i>. He's broken new
ground in the zombie genre with THE RISING and its sequel, CITY OF THE
DEAD, he's upped the stakes in terms of sheer viscera with URBAN GOTHIC,
and has deftly combined eroticism and fear in DARK HOLLOW. He's given
us Earthworm God's, Satyrs, shape-shifters, mermaids and more, and he's done it all
with a writing style thats as free-flowing and effortless as any before
or since. The mans a fucking genius.<br />
<br />
And for many of
his substantial fan-base, his 80's set coming-of-age tale, GHOUL, is his
most accomplished and emotionally resonant work. Shit, the man himself
has stated that its his most personal and autobiographical tale so
far....<br />
<br />
It shows....GHOUL tells the tale of three young
boys as they teeter on the cusp of adulthood during the mid-eighties. As people begin dissapearing in their small town, they come to suspect that something ancient and evil is living underneath the local cemetery, where they just happen to spend their summers...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The story expertly balances period nostalgia, childhood whimsy, dark
horror and fantasy, and stark unflinching truths about the real monsters
that dwell in suburbia, as its young heroes traverse not only the
hunting grounds of an ancient creature, but the harrowing canyons of
sexual and physical abuse dealt out by the people they should be able to
trust the most...their parents.<br />
<br />
It's not an easy read,
but its a damn powerful one, that recalls Stephen King's STAND BY ME
and Richard Laymon's THE TRAVELING VAMPIRE SHOW, as it explores the minefield
that is our loss of innocence. Its harrowing, often frightening,
occasionally very violent, and when all's said and done...heartbreaking.
If you haven't read Keene yet, its a fine place to start.<br />
<br />
Now,
if its seems like Im reviewing his book here, instead of the adaptation
you came here to read about, I apologize. In truth, I'd rather talk about the
myriad merits of Keene's great work than discuss this wholly
unsatisfying and dismal attempt to bring his work to celluloid life. Its
just too depressing.<br />
<br />
Sadly, with this straight to DVD
release...all of the dark magic that Keene wove into the tapestry of
his tale is lost. GHOUL may be a story centered around children, but its a
<i>very </i>adult book. Keene never shy's away from shining a light into the
darkest corners for all of us to see, but this....this movie comes
across like a very poorly acted episode of Goosebumps. I'm not
exaggerating or even trying to bring humor into this shit...its <i>really
that bad</i>. All of the plot points that made the novel great...all of the
themes that reverberated and resonated with all us old 80's kids, (and old kids of all decades), is gone. The brutality...gone. The heartache...gone. The
subtleties and the metaphors on monsters real and imagined...gone. The
fucking heart and soul....gone. This is a horrifyingly poor
representation of not only a powerful story, but of the man who wrote
it. Keene deserved much, much better than this.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUXKNgsgOVdYuIv84dEY8UV81yEl6rQ7WnhHPmuNm9kLQJmKzwxt-bu9r5keg-jBVSXQcWzkArcdedzdGRL-i4ZCh-h0mq-o5brR67Qdifzo4JZPo8_QNMr844kUeImOXr99aw3lopSYI/s1600/Ghoul7251webdl_300mblinks_com_00_46_26_00011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUXKNgsgOVdYuIv84dEY8UV81yEl6rQ7WnhHPmuNm9kLQJmKzwxt-bu9r5keg-jBVSXQcWzkArcdedzdGRL-i4ZCh-h0mq-o5brR67Qdifzo4JZPo8_QNMr844kUeImOXr99aw3lopSYI/s400/Ghoul7251webdl_300mblinks_com_00_46_26_00011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Instead of a layered, simultaneously merciless and compassionate look at child abuse, we get a Scooby-Doo lite children's movie that flirts with darkness, creating a tonally unbalanced and confusing mess that can be neither enjoyed by kids as a 'kids take' on the work, (which I would have perhaps been fine with, were it done right), or by adults looking for real horror and/or depth. The monster at the heart of the tale has been jettisoned completely and replaced with a villain so ridiculous that it benulls me to divulge him. The scenes of abuse are hinted at but never serve the plot or relay the message, and only muddy the waters of what this film is trying to be. It's never engaging, frightening or exciting, and doesn't even hit its target as an 80's nostalgia trip, (one of the novels greatest strengths).<br />
<br />
The acting, (and I hate to say this, as its by kids mostly), is simply atrocious. And before you tear into me for being a soulless monster, let me say that I don't blame these kids. They're all likable and they do what they can with the deeply shit material, but that ain't a whole helluva lot. This is on the director, <i>all the way</i>. I've seen films carried by far worse child actors, but the delivery here is of such a low standard that it's crystal clear no one was paying attention to the daily's...<i>at all</i>. <br />
<br />
Musically, it strikes out in stunning fashion as well. There are no 80's tunes here. I realize its a low-budget affair but come one...was <i>not one</i> lesser, hard up 80's artist approached? Theres no sense of time and place. Those looking for a ride down memory lane are in for no such pleasures here.<br />
<br />
I'm gonna wrap this up, because frankly, Ive never been more deflated by an adaptation in my life. I love Brian Keene...love him. He's most likely my favorite writer and I've read his works more times than I can accurately recount. He's still not anywhere near exposed enough, and I had hoped that this film may act as a draw to his work, but it will only serve as a deterrent. Had this been left in the hands of someone of J.J Abrams, (SUPER 8), caliber, I can only wonder at what greatness may have resulted, but its been handled lazily by people with no grasp or understanding of the material, or the decade. I'm sickened by this, man...sickened. <br />
<br />
It cuts deep to say it, but do not watch this, <i>especially </i>if your a fan of the novel. And if you haven't read the novel...you'd be doing yourself a favor by doing so. It really is wonderful. In fact...I'm counting this as a double review, of the film <i>and</i> the book, so I don't throw myself out a fucking window.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">GHOUL (NOVEL) - 10 Eighties-Kids out of 10</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">GHOUL (MOVIE) - 1 Scooby-Snack out of 10</span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-85440397219783399842013-02-03T02:53:00.001-08:002013-02-08T12:21:00.171-08:00Review : 2 Hours - Horror Short (2012) <div itemprop="description">
</div>
<div class="txt-block">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IDj4Z9duYewgBrXAyXVSa8DZFyMleKWA7zL-gHy-xdJXy7TDMTxpGPMyC2gjc5T2Wc47RNHAAbDSWhqL5GzWehAw5HWUhFJ3Dl4jz0_5GJQN6GU32NHWi_e45LXBWM6hjXv8ngKF1ec/s1600/youtube_thumb2hours1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IDj4Z9duYewgBrXAyXVSa8DZFyMleKWA7zL-gHy-xdJXy7TDMTxpGPMyC2gjc5T2Wc47RNHAAbDSWhqL5GzWehAw5HWUhFJ3Dl4jz0_5GJQN6GU32NHWi_e45LXBWM6hjXv8ngKF1ec/s400/youtube_thumb2hours1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h4 class="inline">
Director:</h4>
<span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5257743/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" itemprop="url">Michael Ballif</a></span></span>
</div>
<div class="txt-block">
<h4 class="inline">
Writers:</h4>
<span itemprop="writer" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5257743/?ref_=tt_ov_wr" itemprop="url">Michael Ballif</a></span></span>,
<span itemprop="writer" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5256885/?ref_=tt_ov_wr" itemprop="url">Josh Merrill</a></span></span>
</div>
<h4 class="inline">
Stars:</h4>
<span itemprop="actors" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5256885/?ref_=tt_ov_st" itemprop="url">Josh Merrill</a></span></span>,
<span itemprop="actors" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5257170/?ref_=tt_ov_st" itemprop="url">Brooke Hemsath</a></span></span>,
<span itemprop="actors" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5264634/?ref_=tt_ov_st" itemprop="url">Joel Manwaring</a></span></span><br />
<br />
Right of the bat, 2 HOURS pulls off something that sure ain't a common occurrence in these dark days of endless remakes, reboots and recycled plots...it finds a new and very interesting way to approach the zombie sub-genre.<br />
<br />
Telling its tale via the lethargic, weary voiceover of its protagonist; 2 HOURS details the emotional journey of a recently infected survivor of the undead apocalypse, as he struggles to find sanctuary and a cure in the short window of time afforded to him, ( the 2 hours of the title), before his succumbing to the disease and his inevitable resurrection as a flesh-hungry monster.<br />
<br />
As time slowly but surely passes by, and our hero delves deeper int his own psyche, we learn something of his past, of his future, of his fear and of his eventual, surprisingly beautiful acceptance of his fate. For the films twenty six minute run-time, we get to follow this one mans rapidly encroaching deterioration.<br />
<br />
Of course, this angle has been approached before in THE WALKING DEAD, DAWN OF THE DEAD and others, but what sets this engaging and touching little ditty apart from its piers is its focus upon the internal, spiritual struggle our bitten buddy finds himself forced to endure. The film does feature all the good stuff...the zombie attacks...the post apocalyptic vibe we all love so much, and gore-hounds will surely be pleased with the viscera on show; but its the tone of the work that makes 2 HOURS stand on its own as a singular, original film. By utilising ambient soundscapes that range from beautiful to severely disquieting, and with the use of such a strangely languid voiceover and cinematography, the film elicits a sense of building dread and despair that feels, to be blunt, a lot like a bad acid trip. As death approaches and the leads sanity begins to crumble along with his life-force, the narrative runs the gamut from fear and loneliness to rage, insanity and ultimately peace. Its a real accomplishment to draw an audience into this fella's tale in so short a time.<br />
<br />
Its written very well too, with the first person narrative veering from free-form dementia to declarations of love for those left behind. Again...it feels like a very harsh drug-dream. A dark night of the soul occurring just as the soul is about to be devoured by infection. The voice-over work is initially a little off-putting, as it feels almost slowed down to give a dreamlike, hazy overtone to the proceedings, but as begin to accept it as the sluggish, dying thought process of a mind who's cogs are winding down, it makes much more sense. It may be a problem for some viewers, but for me, the stoned and dethroned, ethereal vocal only helped add to the sense of otherness. Of something subtly skewed from reality.<br />
<br />
As I mentioned, 2 HOURS was made on a minuscule budget, but this is never an issue with the immersion of the piece, either. Utilising barren and derelict locales works two-fold for the production. On one hand, it looks suitably post-apocalyptic without the use of cheap CG to cover up the cracks in the financing, and more importantly, it accentuates the sense of isolation that the lead is enduring as his death comes calling. Nothing is put to waste here. Each camera-shot, each word, each wash of ambient sound...they all serve the story being told.<br />
<br />
2 HOURS is well worth your time whether your a zombie-fan or whether your burned out by the whole sub-genres over-exposure. Its a dark, sombre look at mortality and vague hope in a hopeless situation. There are few indie shorts out there that look this good, and even fewer that can engage on such an emotional level. If theres any justice in the world; Director Micheal Ballif and co-writer Josh Merrill are going places. The talent and the potential is clear to see. Catch this one if you can, you won't be disappointed.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">8</span> Inner Voices out of 10</span><br />
<br />
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-48894504314686998772013-01-31T19:56:00.003-08:002013-02-08T12:30:10.200-08:00Review : The Collection (2012)<div class="txt-block">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhspO4GJmGfVm5wDLrnqHPDVBkvI9NTi9GSHtzH_2IGlZOnWpoC_4uhpV0jQb9ysGIUW4q1jixCklrOhrndIkay-j61BcuUDosimK4iQfjKBBf96HVTBKgbcNLBDztgjhIgUtd0-sOIA/s1600/collection9121229211.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhspO4GJmGfVm5wDLrnqHPDVBkvI9NTi9GSHtzH_2IGlZOnWpoC_4uhpV0jQb9ysGIUW4q1jixCklrOhrndIkay-j61BcuUDosimK4iQfjKBBf96HVTBKgbcNLBDztgjhIgUtd0-sOIA/s640/collection9121229211.jpeg" width="428" /></a></div>
<h4 class="inline">
</h4>
<h4 class="inline">
Director:</h4>
<span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1729303/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" itemprop="url">Marcus Dunstan</a></span></span>
</div>
<div class="txt-block">
<h4 class="inline">
Writers:</h4>
<span itemprop="writer" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1733317/?ref_=tt_ov_wr" itemprop="url">Patrick Melton</a></span></span>,
<span itemprop="writer" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1729303/?ref_=tt_ov_wr" itemprop="url">Marcus Dunstan</a></span></span>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1748227/fullcredits?ref_=tt_ov_wr#writers">and 2 more credits</a> »
</div>
<h4 class="inline">
Stars:</h4>
<span itemprop="actors" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1577637/?ref_=tt_ov_st" itemprop="url">Josh Stewart</a></span></span>,
<span itemprop="actors" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3500747/?ref_=tt_ov_st" itemprop="url">Emma Fitzpatrick</a></span></span>,
<span itemprop="actors" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person">
<span itemprop="name">
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001520/?ref_=tt_ov_st" itemprop="url">Christopher McDonald</a></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div itemprop="description">
<i>In this sequel to The Collector, a man who escapes from the vicious grips of the serial killer known as....drum roll.....
"The Collector" is blackmailed to rescue an innocent girl from the
killer's booby-trapped warehouse. </i></div>
<br />
Hands up who's read FUNLAND by Richard Laymon...<br />
<br />
If you have, (and you should have), you'll know that, like most if not all of the late, great Laymon's work; its a shameless, merciless, morally obtuse, violent and essentially pointless exercise is horror literature that serves absolutely no purpose whatsoever other than to scare the dick off of you and entertain you from start to finish. You'll also know that it features an extended finale, taking place in a booby-trapped, blood-spattered fun-house in which our heroes must face deadly obstacle after deadly obstacle in a gore-drenched, desperate mission to simply <i>get the fuck outta there</i>.<br />
<br />
Sounds like SAW to the uninitiated, right? Sure, I can see that, (though Laymon came first, fuckers!), but the essential difference is that theres no skewed morality at work, as there is in SAW. No hard choices to be made. No grand twists waiting for the final reveal...nope; just a bunch of hapless bastards running the gauntlet in a maze construed of vicious traps, dead ends, murderous maniacs and yes, spiders.<br />
<br />
Now, if you combine those last 100 pages of FUNLAND with ALIENS, (yeah, you heard me right), then you pretty much got your review for THE COLLECTION. Of course, Laymons book is an intelligently written and horrifying masterpiece, and ALIENS is an expertly crafted suspense ride than kick's more ass than Cynthia Rothrock on her bad week, but lets not let that stand in the way of a good comparison, shall we...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>THE COLLECTION is, of course, neither intelligent, expertly crafted nor a masterpiece. It does, however, kick a great deal of ass. And it does it with a huge grin on its chin. It may be a dumb, thoughtless and often downright fucking ludicrous adventure in horror-land, but fuck me running, its a <i>fun</i> one.<br />
<br />
The comparisons are solid, though. I don't compare this little ditty to Laymons entire book, only the final action-packed cresecendo of violence that sealed its reputation. The book has wonderful characters, a rich, recognisably realistic backstory and enough atmosphere to take a morning swim in. The finale, however, is sheer, unadulterated lunacy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRGOZUafrRpn_ritoBULuODcLZnu4t5vX5ccZlkrU-EUs1UOJ5z_Sf2HroeZCsbysPjgLzV7GFSRdpGFexmR0eH1WOPcIPZ6CKIKfxYl_Ylyxy6kKDuC0ACITAyCy3jKE89KcJ26XEH4/s1600/the+collection+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoRGOZUafrRpn_ritoBULuODcLZnu4t5vX5ccZlkrU-EUs1UOJ5z_Sf2HroeZCsbysPjgLzV7GFSRdpGFexmR0eH1WOPcIPZ6CKIKfxYl_Ylyxy6kKDuC0ACITAyCy3jKE89KcJ26XEH4/s400/the+collection+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
And for this films refreshingly short 77 minute run time, it spends no time whatsoever developing character, plot or anything remotely grounded in reality. It just goes straight for the lunacy. And sometimes, thats enough. <br />
<br />
THE COLLECTION opens with a completly insane and over the top massacre set in a nightclub that immediatly asks the audience 'Are you taking this shit seriously, because if you are, your in the wrong fucking place'. Its a hilariously violent calling card that pretty much puts this films kill-count above all the SAW movies combined, and it only gets crazier from there...<br />
<br />
I won't give away the goodies, (it really has to be seen to be believed), but I will disclose that their are two survivors of this latest bloodbath. One of them manages to escape, and the other is taken for our gimp-fetishing buddies 'Collection'.<br />
<br />
Enter a group of privatly hired mercs, who then coerce the survivor of this traumatic, (read :<i> fucking hilarious</i>), slaughter, to go back into the lions den with them, as a guide, and help take down the threat, saving a girl in the process...<br />
<br />
And therein is your ALIENS comparison, folks.<br />
<br />
And that right there, that I done wrote above...that's yer plot. The mercs, and the survivor, (who I will divulge is the main protagonist from the first film, as you all know that shit already), head into the depths of the madman's funhouse to traverse its harrowing halls and save the girl, hopefully with at least one or two limbs still attached by the time the credits roll. (Yeah, that's not gonna happen, kids).<br />
<br />
And thats it. Thats the plot. The scene establishing this set-up lasts around a minute, then we're at the big guys 'funhouse' and its all go from there. Non-stop, breathless, blood-soaked fun and games for the whole running time.<br />
<br />
If a practically uninterupted 77 minutes of well performed yet shallow characters running around a mousetrap like labyrinth encountering all manner of horrors mechanical, human and animal sounds like a good time, then you may wanna get round to seeing this film. Theres really nothing more to it, and I salute it for its complete lack of regard for legitamate suspense, basis in reality or any other damn thing of merit. THE COLLECTION is just a big, fun, cheese-based thrill-ride that simply seeks to entertain. And you know what? It did...it entertained me. It may have lacked the suspense that drove its superiour prequel, but it more than made up for it by relishing in its own gory excess.<br />
<br />
And the killer is every bit as cool as he was in the original, only this time, he's far more pro-active. I mean, these cheeky bastards are in his home! He's not having that shit. So this time, instead of watching and waiting like a spider atop the web; he's putting down his Xbox controller and he's getting up close and personal like John fucking Rambo. He's a total badass, and I can get behind this guy for sequels aplenty if they wanna throw em my way. I <i>don't care</i> how this fucker managed to decorate his pad with more limb-claiming apparel than the Viet-cong, I just care than people are running face-first into them in the most gruesome manner possible. I admit it...I have a bloodlust. I ain't ashamed of it, and the directors of this film ain't ashamed of it, either. Sometimes its great to just cut loose and have a good laugh, man. Thats what this film is.<br />
<br />
The mayhem is bolstered by some very strong set-design thats almost beautiful at times, and the lighting in the film is exceptional, and helps accentuate that 'funhouse' vibe that the creators were clearly going for. It also has a strong lead in returning central character, Arkin, played by the always enjoyable Josh Stewart, (THE WALKING DEAD, THE DARK KNIGHT RISES). He has little to do by ways of emote, other than look scared out of his damn mind and/or pissed off mightily; but the guy has such an expressive and interesting face that he's always engaging. The supporting cast are all adeqaute too. No one drops the ball, and the whole bnch of them do what they can to add some semblance of auntheticity to the proceeedings. Good luck with that, though...<br />
<br />
THE COLLECTION is ridiculous. There are plot-holes and inconsistancies aplenty. I'll give you a few examples to whet your appetite : <br />
<br />
Our hero spends the whole film with a freshly broken arm, yet during the finale manages to go toe-to-toe with Gimp Rambo, and both his arms are working fine.<br />
<br />
A girl uses a piece of fabric from her shirt to open a locked box <i>from the inside</i>, (you have to see this one to believe it).<br />
<br />
A guy has a hook impaled through his lower jaw by Gimp Rambo, stalking in the rafters above, by simply lowering the fucking thing on a rope, and pulling upwards when the hook is under the guys chin. In a room full of people, no one sees this hook swinging around the room looking for a chin to impale.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvW2Jz_fjI9NViSYBxgo6mEO8iNRyeSqPEIRLJlVsZxu9ZEb8zMIvNzDNPgvTysG6hNbxFi33RrLSoM1yZgq9htohTfMTbdrHq6HJDYd7ItsGeK-DvIIx5oAk3iNf0l_RdUcAw4QTHFXs/s1600/the-collection-C_110211_7499_rgb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvW2Jz_fjI9NViSYBxgo6mEO8iNRyeSqPEIRLJlVsZxu9ZEb8zMIvNzDNPgvTysG6hNbxFi33RrLSoM1yZgq9htohTfMTbdrHq6HJDYd7ItsGeK-DvIIx5oAk3iNf0l_RdUcAw4QTHFXs/s400/the-collection-C_110211_7499_rgb.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Ow!!Where the FUCK did that come from!??"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These moments, and more like them, should sink a film. Here, though, they simply add to its charm. This is a dumb movie. But it knows it, and it couldn't give a good fuck. And you know what, the way I see it, when you go to the Funfair and you enter the funhouse, your not looking for thoughtfulness or meaning, your looking for <i>fun</i>. The clue is in the moniker.<br />
<br />
If you enjoyed THE COLLECTOR, your most likely gonna enjoy this sequel too. (if you missed the original, I wouldnt worry too much, as theres more plot in a low-budget porno). If you enjoy a violent, gory as hell free-for-all that aims only to entertain and delight for a short time, you'll certainly find something to pass your time here. THE COLLECTION is a shameless romp through a gruesome obstacle course, and nothing more. And like I said...sometimes thats enough.<br />
<br />
Go have fun...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">7.5 Spee-iders out of 10</span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-56837342015535967772013-01-31T08:50:00.003-08:002013-01-31T08:54:31.798-08:00Horror Hotel Cinema - Resident Evil - The Game (1996)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12pXkBre592xuI81xxgBRViVm0tEyvVvPwk0u195CtdGEhniUNvSDo0hsh4HRotlQxoRkovIWFX7cIIH5itfmjwhcApYA1nylGip3XAbePT-oHUS8a5kbt4gbx9LTQdl9D7S15ZrJQz0/s1600/Resident_Evil_1_cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12pXkBre592xuI81xxgBRViVm0tEyvVvPwk0u195CtdGEhniUNvSDo0hsh4HRotlQxoRkovIWFX7cIIH5itfmjwhcApYA1nylGip3XAbePT-oHUS8a5kbt4gbx9LTQdl9D7S15ZrJQz0/s640/Resident_Evil_1_cover.png" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Remember those halcyon days of the late nineties, when survival horror was a real force to be reckoned with? Titles like SILENT HILL, RESIDENT EVIL and FATAL FRAME topped the charts and injected some much needed terror into our home-consoles, and our fave genre found itself a whole new playground in which to smear its bloody fingerprints. Parents the world over found their wallets a little less light as their utility bills, (namely electricity), seemed to drop in their favor, as kids all over the globe dimmed the lights, popped on the headphones, and scared themselves shitless in the name of gaming. Good days...<i>great days</i>, actually. I miss 'em, and I bet you do too, (if you were actually <i>around</i> at the time).<br />
<br />
Well, I have a wee treat for you tonight that may just help you relive some of that yesteryear magic. I came across a full walk-through of the original RESIDENT EVIL title, with each and every moment of the game captured in its entirety. Sure, its not the same as playing it yourself, but its getting harder and harder to get your hands on this classic of old, and I don't know about you lot, but I jumped at the chance to sit through this grand old game-changer again. The sights, the sounds, the music...the terrible, <i>terrible</i> voice-acting...its like reuniting with a dear old friend, long lost but never forgotten.<br />
<br />
Equally satisfying is just how cinematic the whole thing feels. Watching the game being played through, smoothly and in a timely fashion, it really shines as a creepy, genuinly atmospheric and well told story, albeit one with acting that could give TWILIGHT a run for its money.<br />
<br />
So here it is...the original and arguably the best RESIDENT EVIL. The game that freaked out a generation, and single-handedly cemented 'Survival Horror' in gaming culture consciousness. It spawned an unending series of hyper-shitty movies, and the game series has strayed from true horror in its ensuing years, but we can't hold that against it. 'RESI EVIL', (as many of us console-kids affectionately renamed it), is a classic, and deserves all our love and admiration. I hope you enjoy this trip down a particularly dark memory lane as much as I did.<br />
<br />
Hotel Management.<br />
<br />
<i>Authors note : This walk-through is Chris' story. Jill's is readily available for any of you guys enthused enough to want more. </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Pc7vnJ0O5LU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/5BDmtOqz4Eo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/jqyR8NyBclk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/KvKgEultExc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-26169152751784394372013-01-22T13:02:00.001-08:002013-02-08T12:22:15.990-08:00Review : Silent Hill - Revelation (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQ4ey9rs-VFRyPMW9VZzbKl_hyIUVgYnd041Y23uYsXhpo0oUiPyqwSKm_hdlvzkhUtg-s1mXsmW8UujRpughFyFIExKAGbPvOoRtKYishx0TWWJMyYifAiSaipPq0C6IwLbw-SAXyUU/s1600/silent_hill_revelation_3d___fan_poster_contest_by_mlappas-d55kbpy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQ4ey9rs-VFRyPMW9VZzbKl_hyIUVgYnd041Y23uYsXhpo0oUiPyqwSKm_hdlvzkhUtg-s1mXsmW8UujRpughFyFIExKAGbPvOoRtKYishx0TWWJMyYifAiSaipPq0C6IwLbw-SAXyUU/s640/silent_hill_revelation_3d___fan_poster_contest_by_mlappas-d55kbpy.png" width="409" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="txt-block">
<h4 class="inline">
Director:
</h4>
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1068186/" itemprop="director">Michael J. Bassett</a></div>
<div class="txt-block">
<h4 class="inline">
Writer:
</h4>
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1068186/">Michael J. Bassett</a></div>
<h4 class="inline">
Stars:</h4>
<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2564938/" itemprop="actors">Adelaide Clemens</a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3229685/" itemprop="actors">Kit Harington</a> and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000293/" itemprop="actors">Sean Bean</a>
<br />
<i>When her father disappears, Heather Mason is drawn into a strange and
terrifying alternate reality that holds answers to the horrific
nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. </i><br />
<br />
'Do you Facebook?'<br />
<br />
Ummm, I'm not sure, man. The fuck are you talking about? Has anyone <i>ever </i>said this to another human being in the history of our species? I really hope not, because if that's ever been used as a chat-up line, you just KNOW that guy went home with his dick dry.<br />
<br />
Still, this is one of many amazingly awful lines of dialogue that threaten to sink this belated sequel to the really-rather-good Christophe Gans SILENT HILL adaptation. Its to teh credit of this hugely flawed follow-up films visuals, that it somehow manages to not only stay afloat, but to actually engage me on some level for its far too short eighty-two minute run-time.<br />
<br />
Now, I know this film has recieved an absolute hammering from critics across the globe, but the truth is, it wasn't made for them. Shit, man, it was even made for <i>me</i>. It was made for those guys and gals who know the lore and the landscape of the popular survival horror franchise like they know the back of their hands. And I have a feeling that it'll satisfy most of them. It may be something of a car crash in terms of writing and plotting, but it's got a wicked little pace going for it, and while the eye candy is never quite as beautiful as in the first film; it still <i>feels </i>like your dealing with a legitimately 'Silent Hill', product. A lesser one, yeah, but still one with a little bite now and then.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYcOjo1tFKh2g-I8YOq5R3RP_ITYjz7zzH8uPlPP4tpKVsuECKn7iUyJ1II5EBHP07SOA7WfntJ9FSXBQywFJcBvz9mizUTenNUljoeCYj2up18ThuKany67cWibcl3neMjUwlTPKgwA/s1600/original.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYcOjo1tFKh2g-I8YOq5R3RP_ITYjz7zzH8uPlPP4tpKVsuECKn7iUyJ1II5EBHP07SOA7WfntJ9FSXBQywFJcBvz9mizUTenNUljoeCYj2up18ThuKany67cWibcl3neMjUwlTPKgwA/s400/original.jpg" width="400" /></a>I played the games, (most of them, anyway), and I loved them. Some of them confused me, some of them scared me shitless. I'm not up on the mythology, but I dig the disturbed and disturbing tone the games utilise. The nightmarish creatures...the subtly dread-filled and mournful soundtracks...the willfull lack of logic that only adds to the sense of disorientation...it's all here on one level or another. And while REVELATION never truly captures the sense of fear that the games elicited, it was never really going to. The first film couldn't capture it either, despite its faithfulness to the source material. Why? Because your not interacting with it. It ain't you roaming around the ashen streets of this creepy little town by the gates of Hell. Its someone else. The sense of oneness is gone. to stick with the formula, (lone character roaming the town), would bore the cinema-going audience, but in bringing in more characters and action, the horror is diluted. It's a catch-22<br />
<br />
Of course, with better direction and a better script, REVELATION would still be much more immersive and a whole lot more impactful, but for what it is, its nowhere near as bad as the majority of critics would have you believe.<br />
<br />
Seems like with many 'professional' critics, theres a domino-effect in play. One sets fire to a films reputation, and the rest, seeking to keep face, follow the smoke. I try not to do that, and I'm not going to it here. REVELATION is a damned mess in many ways, but its never boring, its gorgeous looking, has a really talented cast, (who are so talented, they almost, ALMOST make the dialogue come to life), and most importantly...a fucking guy with a metal Pyramid on his head and a huge sword.<br />
<br />
And thats what lies at the core of a film like this. The acting and the character building are merely an afterthought, much like most early second-gen video games that inspired them. Its about seeing people and places that gamers have spent many hours with, and loved in those hours, come to life on the big screen. Theres a fanbase for this sort of film that will lap it up. As for me, I can't deny enjoying it, despite finding many characters superflous, and finding every single line of dialogie to be explosition. I still enoyed the ride. It's hard to hate a film that features sexy faceless nurses who like to slice and dice based on sound, or a mannequin-spider with five heads and dead staring eyes. That's some shit I can get behind, no-matter what nonsense the actors are babbling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZYj3NPjVvqsFHju0czJQn2_4QKHs2tkbAU0f-w90rBpWfy6TDE2A0dsIVC5XOgdBA1DJHQ2PgKx2JcImKmccd5SVnTQlV9R7opyCjkUtHZqsxwcXIJhLst4BV8vsHGnWGkGurbjFGPo/s1600/silent-hill-revelation3d-pic02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigZYj3NPjVvqsFHju0czJQn2_4QKHs2tkbAU0f-w90rBpWfy6TDE2A0dsIVC5XOgdBA1DJHQ2PgKx2JcImKmccd5SVnTQlV9R7opyCjkUtHZqsxwcXIJhLst4BV8vsHGnWGkGurbjFGPo/s400/silent-hill-revelation3d-pic02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In fact, if anything, the films main flaw was NOT the awful script or the disjointed storytelling...it was the length. REVELATION could, and should, have been at least forty minutes longer. With some actual character depth, and <i>far</i> more time spent in Silent Hill, this could actually have been something pretty special. As it stands, it's not the stillborn so many proclaim it to be, but it may be missing a few chromosomes or so. Maybe even a limb...<br />
<br />
SILENT HILL: REVELATION is not a well-made film. Nor is it a well-edited or well-written film. It is, however, a very beautiful film. And when your visuals and source material are as strong as this films are, theres still going to be something worthy amidst the wreckage. Someday perhaps we'll have a truly great Silent Hill film, (the first movie came pretty damn close in my opinion), but at least they havent pulled a RESIDENT EVIL on us. It's still firmly entrenched in the horror genre. And it has some memorable scenes of hellish carnage to groove to. Go in with low expectations, and close your ears and your wits to the stilted and preposterous dialogue, and you may actually enjoy it a little, despite yourself. I did, and I ain't afraid to say so.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5.5 Spider-Bitches out of 10</span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3418206021884893906.post-70707546028141875092013-01-07T07:06:00.002-08:002013-02-08T12:31:42.482-08:00Review : HITCHCOCK (2012)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujAQo9wdBlN62837kpnCqEq2Wk-M_x2zd05OK3UuVgHL1U6Dsh5A9PDy9AT1ncAKk8HD7Gf4hiIpXJjFgpxh9LBlrSBUlcEoskkSxjMtQbt2hZD_HSWx6Inu4LZ4R_yYAcPsKsBLas9w/s1600/hitchcockmovie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujAQo9wdBlN62837kpnCqEq2Wk-M_x2zd05OK3UuVgHL1U6Dsh5A9PDy9AT1ncAKk8HD7Gf4hiIpXJjFgpxh9LBlrSBUlcEoskkSxjMtQbt2hZD_HSWx6Inu4LZ4R_yYAcPsKsBLas9w/s400/hitchcockmovie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>As NORTH BY NORTHWEST opens to great acclaim, an ageing Alfred Hitchcock begins to suspect he may be losing his touch. In his clamour for inspiration and something truly challenging, he comes across a little-known horror novel about a boy and his mother...a novel called PSYCHO... </i><br />
<br />
Yeah, yeah...I know. It's not a horror movie, I hear you cry. That's as may be, but it centres around one of the greatest horror films ever made, (and perhaps one of the few authentically perfect movies in existence), and it deals with a man synonymous with the genre. Therefor, its getting reviewed, kids. Not only for these aforementioned reasons, but because it's a portrait of a man I have unbounded love and admiration for, and it put a grin on my mug a mile wide, and what better way to start a new year of reviews than with a film that had got me giddy as a schoolboy?<br />
<br />
HITCHCOCK is not a film your gonna watch for any real depth or insight into the soul of this great master of horror and suspense. It's not a concise and detailed look at the film-making process, either. Theres very little of historical value here, other than surface anecdotal whimsy and the retelling of legend in a totally biased and celebratory fashion. Nope, what you get with HITCHCOCK is a surrealistic and very humorous glimpse into the situation this immortal big fat bugger found himself in, as the years began to catch up on him. What baring of the soul is witnessed by the viewer comes almost fully from our preconceived notions of the man, and in this case, (much like ED WOOD), that's no bad thing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF05Yc0zEr899zouZ51RN-SXYZBrPEwCRvIpKnHYymbKqzpNIumwWOfop-XVTaxsdTi_KIhnUnckFLTW-dLIsrtMakp144HBP5bp-AIaIsIYp11Jm8skU4xYUBQH0X7mh0QNBe59eyrFE/s1600/hitchcock_2012-1-1920x1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF05Yc0zEr899zouZ51RN-SXYZBrPEwCRvIpKnHYymbKqzpNIumwWOfop-XVTaxsdTi_KIhnUnckFLTW-dLIsrtMakp144HBP5bp-AIaIsIYp11Jm8skU4xYUBQH0X7mh0QNBe59eyrFE/s400/hitchcock_2012-1-1920x1200.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If your looking for a dark, intimate study of a man who was, by all accounts, a bit on the crazy side, then your in the wrong place. But if, like me, the mere mention the man puts a smile on your face and a song in your heart, then this is candy-corn and carnivals, folks. It really is a ninety minute celebration of perhaps the most single-minded sonofagun who ever directed a motion picture. A true one-off, and a man whose cunning and wit wit simply makes <i>any</i> scene featuring him a joy to behold.<br />
<br />
And there really is no end to
the brilliant moments here. Hitchcock whining for a drink as Alma forces
him to do the gardening...his endless flirtation with Janet Leigh...his
temper tantrums on set...his blaring of classical music while he enjoys
cream-cake and Warner Bros cartoons...it's all gold. <br />
<br />
At the centre of all this joviality is a man who is no stranger to horror, himself, Anthony Hopkins...and he plays old Hitch to perfection. It would have been easy to stray into caricature as so many actors do when portraying characters as colorful as big Al, (of which there are very few), but Hopkins knows how to toe the line. He plays up Hitch's many famous idiosyncrasies, while keeping the man grounded in authentic human emotion. He's simply fantastic, and he should be...he's helped by some extraordinary make-up that makes him a near dead-ringer for Hitch. As his long-suffering and fiercely intelligent wife, Alma, Helen Mirren is bang on the money. They have great chemistry, and help keep the scenes that deviate from the lightness of tone very palatable. It may be seen as a flaw that so much of the film is focused on their relationship, but at heart, HITCHCOCK is a love story. A very sweet, somewhat seasoned tale of two soul-mates, and the shit they put each other through in this weird old life. As a couple, they are never less than delightful.<br />
<br />
And they have fine support, too. Scarlett Johansson is spot-on as Janet
Leigh...both erotic and approachable, (much to Alma's misfortune), and
the fella who plays Anthony Perkins is<i> shockingly </i>brilliant. He looks and acts
<i>exactly </i>like the man. Its, frankly, uncanny. Though, make no mistake, as good as the support is, this is really a two-hander, and their relationship fuels the two intertwining plots overwhelmingly.<br />
<br />
Of course, many <i>if not all </i>of you are less interested in Hitch's marriage than in the telling of how his arguably finest movie, (and first foray into pure horror), came to be born, ...and you wont be disappointed. Theres a real spirit of nostalgia in the scenes of filming, and the lead-up, as Hitch does battle with the evil forces of Paramount and its half-witted producers, is every bit as enthralling as the scenes of the man directing. Theres always been something gleefully mischievous about Hitchcock's persona, and in these early scenes, (and in later post-production scenes), its made clear how well this wily old dogs wits served him in his unending fight to retain complete control over his movies. And <i>thank God</i> he did. There are few things as gratifying in this life as seeing an true artist overcome the bureaucrats that hold them back, and HITCHCOCK playfully details our heroes manipulation of these monkeys, celebrating his victories with abandon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_PAEN_Nwc1f9uL8QuJT81bSQWbdzpr9FedrJi6aU3bj8b4WeE2Gf1lBDronPVrw51JqJDCr60DsB-7nd26jE9M_C946COIAL6X16JB5No5kHb0unt9BFIKbztQ9jirDw3gxBC-jPG5fg/s1600/Hitchcock-_-Scarlette-Johanson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_PAEN_Nwc1f9uL8QuJT81bSQWbdzpr9FedrJi6aU3bj8b4WeE2Gf1lBDronPVrw51JqJDCr60DsB-7nd26jE9M_C946COIAL6X16JB5No5kHb0unt9BFIKbztQ9jirDw3gxBC-jPG5fg/s400/Hitchcock-_-Scarlette-Johanson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There are a few darker elements in here, (Hitchcock's anger with his wife
seems to fuel his directing of PSYCHO into a more vicious work than
even <i>he </i>had contemplated, and his infamous obsession with his leading ladies is centre-front throughout the tale), but the overall tone is one of creativity and play. In one inspired storytelling choice, Alfred often holds imaginary conversations with true-life serial killer, Ed Gein, (the inspiration for PSYCHO, among other horror works, including SILENCE OF THE LAMBS, as it happens), seeking inspiration and understanding. Its an unnecessary but very entertaining method of bringing us closer to the man.<br />
<br />
Another wonderful flourish within the tale is the style in which Alfred and Alma's relationship is told. As Hitch begins to suspect his long-time love of having an affair with her smarmy bastard of a writer friend; the film plays out like a Hitchcock suspense film. The overwrought music recalls the great work of Bernard Herman, as the portly directors suspicion grows; and its <i>hilarious</i>, culminating in a fantastic moment where he expresses to Alma in his trademark deadpan way, that, 'Every man is capable of murder, and with good reason'. He states this mid-argument, mind you, as she removes a cream-cake from his person.<br />
<br />
Now, if that last sentence put a smile on your face, then you obviously know your Hitchcock, and your guaranteed to love this thing. For those unfamiliar with his work or his legend, (the hell is wrong with you!?), the film may be far less charming. In truth, though, if your unaware of Alfred Hitchcock you have no place near a cinema screen in the first place. Just saying...<br />
<br />
A little too much screen-time is spent detailing Alma's situation with her admirer. We really only need the bare minimum of these two together to understand that shes frustrated in her life, that time could have been put to far better use with Hitch doing, well, anything, but its a small bit of gristle in an otherwise hugely enjoyable steak. It's hard to complain.<br />
<br />
Overall, HITCHCOCK is ninety minutes of fresh summer air. It's not a serious take on the man, nor is it trying to be...its a period piece with real colour and vibrancy, and a character study that isn't afraid to simply revel in its larger-than-life protagonist and focus on fun. It's absolutely hilarious from start to finish, and never once sinks into maudlin situations or mundane excess. The tempestuous relationships at its core, (both between Hitch and Alma, and Hitch and the studio), are buoyant and light-footed, and, (as you all know how PSYCHO went down) the tale ends on a beautifully romantic and victorious high. This is some great fun, right here, guys. It had me at, 'Good evening'.....<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">8</span> Shower Curtains out of 10</span>Kyle Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08550992724523407823noreply@blogger.com1