PHIL'S FILM ADVENTURES

LAST SHIFT Blu-Ray (2015)

LAST SHIFT
Starring: Juliana Harkavy, Joshua Mikel, J. LaRose, Sarah Sculco, Kathryn Kilger, Natalie Victoria, Mary Lankford Poiley
Written by Anthony DiBlasi & Scott Poiley
Cinematography by Austin F. Schmidt
Edited by Anthony DiBlasi
Produced by Michael Finn, Melissa Gruver, Andy Henry, Mary Lankford Poiley, Scott Poiley, Steven Shea
Directed by Anthony DiBlasi
Released by Magnet Releasing

Independent horror films can be hit or miss. There's a lot of outstanding ones out there that challenge the ideas and conventions of what a horror film could be while others are just as bad as the ones from the major studios. But those films made by filmmakers that want to tell something different are so interesting to watch because of their low budgets, they must be more creative and imaginative to tell their stories. A great example of this is the newly released film from Magnet Releasing entitled LAST SHIFT.

The film's official synopsis: Rookie police officer Jessica Loren (Juliana Harkavy) has been assigned the last shift at a closing police station and must wait for the Hazmat team to come pick up bio-hazard waste from the station's armory. But unbeknownest to Jessica, cult leader John Michael Paymon (Joshua Mikel) has haunted the department since he and his two followers Kitty (Sarah Sculco) and Dorthea (Kathryn Kilger) committed suicide a year ago to date. And now, Jessica is about to find out how dangerous they can be when she's left alone of this last shift.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2014)

Director and co-writer Anthony DiBlasi does an exceptional job of creating genuine chills and terrifying scares. Even with his low budget, he is able to take his one and only location and create a sense of claustrophobic doom that awaits our rookie heroine. DiBlasi grabs our attention by employing some of the oldest tricks in the book to scare us: strange noises and sounds, flickering lights, unsettling musical score and supernatural suspense. His directing style slowly unfolds the story fluently, all the while we're forced to witness Jessica's traumatic experience of her very first shift, which if she's not careful, could very well be her last.

Actress Juliana Harkavy first became well known for her portrayal of Rebecca in the DOLPHIN TALES films, but to genre fans she's best remembered for playing Alisha in the AMC series The Walking Dead. Here, Julianna is able to showcase her acting capabilities more in this her major starring vehicle. We witness her character development and growth in her performance as Jessica but then halfway through the film she begins decent into paranoia as her sanity begins to slip away. Her believability, vulnerability and fear is outright horrifying to watch as we become so emotionally invested in her that we cannot look away from the screen. An outstanding tour-de-force performance from Miss Harkavy!

And Joshua Mikel channels his inner Charles Manson to conjure up his portrayal of the psychotic and evil John Michael Paymon. His performance is really quite disturbing and very, very convincing. I got chills whenever he came on the screen. Just a really fantastic job from Mikel! A little trivia fact for you: the working title during the making of the film was JOHN MICHAEL PAYMON before the filmmakers decided to change it to its current title.

LAST SHIFT is a perfect example of how independent filmmakers are breathing new life into the horror genre! The film will get under your skin and will stay there until its gory, terrifying and unsettling conclusion! An indie masterpiece of contemporary horror cinema! 4 out of 5 stars!! Definately worth viewing!!

LAST SHIFT is currently available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. It's also available to stream on Netflix. To learn more about upcoming released from Magnet releasing, visit their website at www.magnetreleasing.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

It's been two years since audiences were introduced to the world of acapella music, courtesy of the film PITCH PERFECT which went on to become a huge Hollywood hit. Those lovable bunch of misfit and stereotypical girls won the hearts of the world and sooner or later, we knew there would be a sequel. Well, here we are and we finally got the sequel we were promised. So loosen up your vocal chords, practice your choreography and mic up cause it's time to talk (or should I say sing) about the film PITCH PERFECT 2.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: The Bellas are back, and they are better than ever. After being humiliated in front of none other than the President of the United States of America, the Bellas are taken out of the Aca-Circuit. In order to clear their name and regain their status, the Bellas take on a seemingly impossible task: winning an International competition no American team has ever won. In order to accomplish this monumental task, they need to strengthen the bonds of friendship and sisterhood, and blow away the competition with their amazing aca-magic! With all new friends and old rivals tagging along for the trip, the Bellas can hopefully accomplish their dreams once again.

So let's discuss the film, shall we? It was pretty damn funny, but I felt that the story moved a little too fast. There were a lot of new characters introduced, a new romance, new adversaries and it just felt rushed. Granted the filmmakers could've made the film longer to compensate all these additions but they didn't. And that's a common problem with most sequels: the need to top the original and load up the sequel with new stuff. But that shouldn't have to sacrifice the integrity of the story nor the film as a whole. Just take the time and make the movie the way it should and let it unfold naturally, instead of trying to cram everything including the kitchen sink in it.

The whole cast comes back for this installment and nothing has changed much. Same typical girls with the same stereotypes. Beca is still a hot loner, Chloe is still uptight, Jesse is still a hopeless romantic, Lilly is still that weird Asian girl, Fat Amy is still...well...fat. Now there's a hilarious romance introduced when Fat Amy hooks up with Bumper. Yup, sparks fly when they shag like two dogs in heat! Now that was some funny shit!

Actress Elizabeth Banks makes her feature length debut here and she does a great job directing this ensemble cast. Now she was one of the producers on the last film, and since these films are her baby, she took the next logical step in her career and helmed this latest chapter on the series. Recently a third film was announced and it looks like Mrs. Banks has signed on to direct that film as well.

PITCH PERFECT 2 will give you a warm fuzzy feeling if you're a hardcore fan of the series. Though it'll tickle your funny bone and put a smile on your face, I just wish it was more thought out and not so rushed. But that's just me complaining. I'm sure you'll enjoy this film. 3 1/2 out of 5 stars! It's worth watching!

PITCH PERFECT 2 is now available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. It's also available at your local Redbox as well as on Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

PEEKARAMA DOUBLE FEATURE (2015)

It's been a long time since I've done a Porno Chic installment here and today's review will hopefully rectify this oversight. Recently there has been a plethora of classic adult films being released on both Blu-Ray and DVD that will make fans very happy and excited to hear about. The reason these films have such a huge following and are so popular is quite simple really: they were real movies. They were shot on film stock, had budgets, interesting plotlines and stories, real world locations, nice looking sets, great acting, and of course, hot sex. By taking these factors into account, one can see why Porno Chic was all the rage and why the the period of 1972 through 1894 was called the "Golden Age of Pornography." These filmmakers were both pushing the sexual envelope of the times while exploring and experimenting with the fundamental techniques of filmmaking. And then there were those other films that were made just for profit and self gratification and you can tell the difference between them. Now there are films that are both erotic, silly and just fun to watch, which leads me to today's review. The fine folks over at Vinegar Syndrome has just released a fantastic limited edition Blu-ray/DVD combo of two films starring the angeliesque Hyapatia Lee as part of their Peekarama series. So let's travel back to the awesome 1980s to discuss THE YOUNG LIKE IT HOT/SWEET YOUNG FOXES Limited Edition combo pack.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1983)

THE YOUNG LIKE IT HOT (1983)

Starring: Hyapatia Lee, Kay Parker, Eric Edwards, Joey Silvera, Shauna Grant, Herschel Savage, Linda Shaw, Mike Horner, Lili Marlene
Written by Gail Palmer
Cinematography by Jack Remy
Edited by Pearl Diamond
Produced by Gail Palmer

Directed by Bob Chin
Originally distributed by Carribean Films

The film's official synopsis: Trouble is brewing at a small town phone help line. The girls have just found out that they are slated to be replaced by computers. Determined to show their bosses that technology is no match for their skills, they begin offering their callers erotic conversations the likes of which have never been heard before!

I've forgotten just how stunning Hyapatia Lee was back in the day. Beautiful smile, long dark flowing hair, stunning eyes, gorgeous brown skin and a tight, slim, sexy body that drive men crazy. With these attributes, the former Miss Nude USA dives right into her role as supervisor Lori, who loves to help out her fellow employees. Original MILF Kay Park sizzles up the screen by just being her sexy self. Plus the exquisite Shauna Grant and her radiant beauty reminds us all that this sultry and talented actress left us too soon. That's another reason why I enjoy these films. The women in these films look and sound like real women you'd meet in your everyday life. These ladies are sophisticated, attractive and smart and don't look fake like most of today's porn stars. Bob Chin does a great job of keeping the film moving at good pace while capturing some very hot sex scenes. The film is very light and has a funny, good-natured, comedic tone and it doesn't take it itself too serious. Overall, I miss this type of movie making and this is one adult classic that fans should really get acquainted with.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1983)

SWEET YOUNG FOXES (1983)

Starring: Hyapatia Lee, Kay Parker, Ron Jeremy, Eric Edwards, Cindy Carver, Cara Lott, Pat Manning, Bud Lee
Written by Deborah Sullivan
Cinematography by Jack Remy
Edited by Pearl Diamond
Produced by Elliot Lewis
Director: Bob Chin
Originally distributed by VCX

The film's official synopsis: A group of young Southern California co-eds spend their days and nights on the prowl looking for ways to satisfy their red hot passions! Laura, Maggie and Kimberly are the three luscious lasses whose lives are going through tumultuous changes. They decide to descend on a rollicking party to remedy their loneliness. At the party Laura meets a former schoolmate, giving old torches a reason to light up and burn fiercely. Meanwhile the virginal Kim enters full womanhood at the hands of a dashing young man bent on satisfying their mutual lustful craving. Finally, Maggie finds an intriguing older woman with whom she discovers another side of her sexual hunger. Sweet Young Foxes... ah how sweet!

Another great starring vehicle for Hyapatia Lee as college Freshman Laura, who is now on summer vacation and is wanting to have some fun. Her opening scene alone is worth the price of this double feature. Add the stunning Kay Parker as Hyapatia's hot mom Julie (her solo shower scene will fog up your glasses) and her two besties Kim (Cindy Carver) and Maggie (Carla Lott), and of course Ron Jeremy, you've got yourself a movie that will surely keep you busy for a while. Like the previous film, Bob Chin directed this one as well and was shot on location in San Francisco, the West Coast Capitol of the porn industry (long before it relocated to the infamous San Fernando Valley). While light on story, Chin makes up for it with fun, free spirited and the sex is off the charts. Lovers of classic adult films will have a field day watching this one.

Vinegar Syndrome has done a fantastic job of restoring these two adult film classics and it shows on both Blu-Ray and the DVD. Both films were restored in 2k from the original 35mm film negatives and they look and sound even better now than they did upon their initial releases. The special features included here are: interview with director a Bob Chin, interview with adult film historian and actor Bill Margold and the original theatrical trailers for both films. The double feature release is limited to just 2,000 units which makes this a very special collector's item for fans.

The PEEKARAMA DOUBLE FEATURE: THE YOUNG LIKE IT HOT/SWEET YOUNG FOXES is a fantastic edition to any adult film library collection! This release is a perfect example of the need for more restoration of these Porno Chic classics. They are time capsules of a by gone era, a time that will never return again. 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

PEEKARAMA DOUBLE FEATURE: THE YOUNG LIKE IT HOT/SWEET YOUNG FOXES is currently available for a very limited time on the Vinegar Syndrome website. To purchase a copy, visit their website at www.vinegarsyndrome.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER DVD (2015)

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER

Starring: Jesse Metcalfe, Meghan Ory, Virginia Madsen, Keegan Connor Tracy, Aleks Paunovic, Dennis Haysbert, Carrie Genzel, Rob Riggle, Julia Benson, Peter Benson, Harley Morenstein

Written by Tim Carter

Cinematography by Mahlon Todd Williams
Edited by Mike Jackson
Produced by Tim Carter & Tomas Harlan

Directed by Zach Lipovsky
Production Company: Legendary Digital Media, Contradiction Films, Dead Rising Productions

Distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment

The majority of movies based on popular video games have been, shall we say, disposable train wrecks that almost ruin the game it's based on (remember MARIO BROTHERS and STREET FIGHTER). When the RESIDENT EVIL films came out, it seemed like the new trend in Hollywood was the game adaptations. Soon others followed like the HALO direct-to-video films and the atrocious HOUSE OF THE DEAD series plus those FINAL FANTASIES movies that people didn't like. Now there's a new game adaptation on the block making its debut and, to my surprise, is really awesome and very entertaining. So let's dive right into my review of DEAD RISING:WATCHTOWER.

The film's official synopsis: Set between the events of Dead Rising 2 and Dead Rising 3, The story follows online reporter Chase Carter (Jesse Metcalfe) and his camerawoman Jordan (Keegan Connor Tracy) as they cover the stories of the people inside of the walled-in quarantined area in Oregon, as the government (running an organization called FEZA—Federal Emergency Zombie Authority) attempts to contain a viral outbreak that turns people into ravenous zombies. An anti-viral drug called Zombrex, that keeps the virus at bay, is being administered to those infected. When it becomes clear that the drug is no longer effective and a zombie outbreak purges the town and infects its inhabitants, Chase, Jordan, grieving mother Maggie (Virginia Madsen), and survivor Crystal (Meghan Ory) battle their way out of the city before it gets firebombed. But Crystal has a dark secret, and the army has a hidden agenda.

Promotional Movie Poster (2015)

Unlike most films based on video games, this one is jammed packed with awesome action, cool characters, fun story, great directing, and very scary looking zombies. What I liked was that the film stated very faithful to the game, which is a rarity these days. Plus I liked that it fits into the game's continuity, which fans of the franchise will get a big kick out of. It's a long movie, which I found very satisfying because most films are really rushed and the filmmakers try to cram so much into their film. For some reason, filmmakers feel as if they need to tell it all in just 90 minutes. Where is that written in stone? Take the time to make a good movie and don't worry about the film's length. If the film's entertaining, the audience will go with you.

Director Zach Lipovsky does a great job of constructing some excellent set-ups, pans and clean narratives that keep the story moving forward. He builds tensions and scares with precise execution while giving the characters breathing room so we can get to know them better. And the action scenes with the zombies is spot-on; it looks like it was ripped from the video game. Every scene serves a purpose and it looks spectacular, especially the amazing bus scene where Chase is being chased by zombies in and around a school bus. That was an excellent scene!! That blew my mind away!! Great directing on the part of Mr. Lipovsky!!

The cast as a whole deserves nods from the horror community as well as from the game world. Jesse Metcalfe's Chase is the asshole you love to hate, but then cheer for at the end.
Meghan Ory pours on the mystery, the sexy, and the ass kicking as her character Chrystal is freaking awesome! And you can't help feel the sorrow of Virginia Madsen's character Maggie. No matter what role she plays, Madsen is one of the most underated actresses in Hollywood. Believe it or not I had the pleasure of meeting her at the Monsterpalooza convention back in 2013. She was such a sweet person that I found myself falling for her. Kind, considerate and very appreciative of her fans. She shows respect to her fans and that's why she is loved withing the horror community. One of the nicest women I have ever met!

This was the first digital film developed by Legendary Digital Media, a division of Legendary Pictures. The movie premiered on Crackle, an online distributor of movies and television shows. Since then it's been released on DVD by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. It was announced recently that the sequel will premiere on Crackle in the spring of 2016.

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER is a worthy entry to the game's franchise as well as in horror fans' libraries. It's a bad-ass, zombie infested, blood stained, thrill-ride-of-a-flick that will definitely keep you entertained through the film's duration! So grab your self a bag a popcorn, some cold sodas and set back and watch this awesome movie! 4 out of 5 stars!! Recommended viewing!!

DEAD RISING: WATCHTOWER is currently available on DVD by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. Visit your local retailer and pick up your copy today. It can also be seen online on the Crackle website.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Can someone please explain to me why this country (and Hollywood) keeps spending millions of dollars on saving Matt Damon? He was first saved by Tom Hanks and his platoon in 1998 Steven Spielberg film SAVING PRIVATE RYAN. Then he had to rescued again in that other film a couple of years ago. Now in 2015, Damon must be resumed again, but this time he's stranded on the red planet of Mars. And thanks to the legendary director Ridley Scott, THE MARTIAN is now one of my favorite films of this year.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: During a manned mission to Mars, Astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is presumed dead after a fierce storm and left behind by his crew. But Watney has survived and finds himself stranded and alone on the hostile planet. With only meager supplies, he must draw upon his ingenuity, wit and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Millions of miles away, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring "the Martian" home, while his crewmates concurrently plot a daring, if not impossible, rescue mission. As these stories of incredible bravery unfold, the world comes together to root for Watney's safe return.

Based on the 2011 Andy Weir novel of the same name and adapted into a screenplay by Drew Goddard (THE CABIN IN THE WOODS, CLOVERFIELD, WORLD WAR Z), the film is a true testament of the power of film. It connects us on a basic human spirit. It can take us anywhere in time and space. Lastly, film is universal. It tells us stories that we can all relate to. Plus having Ridley Scott, one f the most prolific and important directors of all time, in the directing chair, one can see how he incorporates all these aspects beautifully in each and every single frame. There is no shot wasted; every single scene is a word that tells the story of the human spirit overcoming adversity, taking whatever life throws at you and never giving up on yourself.

Matt Damon is phenomenal in the film, but I loved about the film were all the supporting characters that made the story move forward. Jessica Chastain, Jeff Daniels, Kristen Wiig, Benedict Wong, and the rest of the cast help propel the film forward by providing fun, interesting and sometimes eccentric characters that make the film come together.

Seeing as how this is a science fiction film and this particular genre requires special effects and CGI, I am proud to say that it looks amazing! Having bad CGI can ruin a film and it takes me out of it (TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN is a perfect example of this). Now the film is being screened in both 3D as well as 2D. My fiancee and I along with our friends saw the 2D version, which was fine by us. Some people I've spoken with loved the 3D effects but, to me, the whole 3D experience is kinda played out. Now it feels more like a marketing ploy to help sell their film. It doesn't matter to me much. The film has an all-star cast, one the best directors in the world and a great story. What more do you need?

THE MARTIAN is one of the best films of 2015 and I cannot recommend this film enough. It truly is an outstanding piece of cinema that you all need to see on the big screen. Because of the fast turn over of movies being released on Blu-Ray and DVD, this film won't be in theaters for very much longer so go see this movie now! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE MARTIAN is currently playing in theaters nationwide. Check your local listings and theater to see if it's playing near you!

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

So, today's film has been receiving a lot of mixed reviews. Some have praised the film saying it's an action packed dark comedy that it'll entertain the hell out of you from start to finish, while others complained saying it wasn't at all funny and it's a BOURNE IDENTITY spoof. Regardless of these, when I saw the trailer for the film, I knew that I wanted to see it. Which leads me to today's review of the film AMERICAN ULTRA.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Small-town stoner Mike Howell (Jesse Eisenberg) spends most of his time getting high and writing a graphic novel about a superhero monkey. What Mike doesn't know is that he was trained by the CIA to be a lethal killing machine. When the agency targets him for termination, his former handler Victoria Lasseter (Connie Britton) activates his latent skills, turning the mild-mannered slacker into a deadly weapon. Now, the utterly surprised Mike must use his newfound abilities to save himself and his girlfriend Phoebe Larson (Kristen Stewart) from getting wasted.

I can see why the film had received mixed reviews. The trailer doesn't do the film justice. This is funny film with lots of cool action, great characters and dark humor that will tickle your warped and twisted funny bone. This is not your Hollywood film by any means. Usually the only films that are like this are usually from the Coen Brothers. So viewing this film was a delight. It's so offbeat and not like those other action films. Think Quentin Tarantino film meets Cheech and Chong and you'll get the idea of what I'm talking about.

Director Nima Nourizadeh made his big screen debut with the 2012 film PROJECT X. Here he goes in a different direction; replacing teen shenanigans with off-the-wall action and comedy that propels the movie to another stratosphere. Nima keeps the film moving forward while giving us laughs, action and fun characters to root for. And there is a lot of cool action scenes that so bloody and violent that fans of the genre will love it.

As for the cast, the one that really stands out is Kristen Stewart. Yes I know, her acting in those awful TWILIGHT movies were just mind-numbingly bad, but since then her acting has become rather good. Here, her character is actually two different people: the sweet, funny naive girlfriend Phoebe and the bad ass, take charge, shoot 'me up FBI agent Pheobe. Her performance is great and she's doing most of her own stunts. So big props goes out to Miss Stewart. Love to see where her career goes now.

For some stupid reason, Lionsgate just dumped the film out to theaters without a lot of press or any kind of promotions. So it didn't even make its budget back. The film took in about $15 million total but it cost $28 million to make, so I don't understand Lionsgate's logic. But then, that's Hollywood for you. I guess they were too busy promoting some other film rather than give this on some love and attention it so rightly deserves.

So AMERICAN ULTRA is one helluva crazy, blood soaked, guns blazing, action packed dark comedy that will sure give you something to smile about! So if you're in the mood to see something rather different' then this movie is righ up our alley. 4 put of 5 stars!! Definitely worth viewing!!

AMERICAN ULTRA is now available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. The movie is also available at your local Redbox as well as on Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

I saw DESPICABLE ME when it first came out back in 2010. It wasn't my favorite film but I did fall in love with those cute, little yellow minions. Apparently so did the rest of the world. Then DESPICABLE ME 2 came out and then the minion fandom really took off. There were toys, games, posters, rides, even a kids cereal! Soon it became clear that eventually Universal Pictures were going to release a minion movie to cash in on the popularity. And wouldn't you know it? They did release a minion movie entitled MINIONS. And it was a cute movie to watch too.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Ever since the dawn of time, the Minions have lived to serve the most despicable of masters. From T. Rex to Napoleon, the easily distracted tribe has helped the biggest and the baddest of villains. Now, join protective leader Kevin, teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob on a global road trip where they'll earn a shot to work for a new boss-the world's first female super-villain-and try to save all of Minionkind...from annihilation.

As with most kids movies, the plot is pretty straight forward and predicable but you know what? Who bloody cares! Why do I say this? Because it was a cute, sweet and funny movie that tickled my funny bone and me forget about life's problems for a while. Being an adult and parent, I have a lot to worry about stress over. There's work, bills that need to be paid, rent, car issues, groceries, laundry, etc. But when was the last time you indulged your inner child? Whenever I see a family film, I always like to stress that idea. Go ahead and just have fun watching a film that will make you laugh out loud with joy and care-free delight. After all, that's what being a child is all about.

The movie was directed by the combo of Kyle Balda and Pierre Coffin, the later directed the DESPICABLE ME films. They keep the film light on its feet, the laughs frequent and the fun at full throttle. The script was written by one Brian Lynch, the man who wrote PUSS IN BOOTS, HOP and the upcoming Illumination Entertainment/Universal Pictures release THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS. Granted this isn't the best written story, but for the kids, they will eat it up. And I wouldn't be surprised if you and your family started quoting the movie as well. Plus, since the film takes place in 1968 (yup, this is a prequel), there's a lot of far out catchphrases to quote man.

Actress Sandra Bullock finally makes her villain debut as the infamous Scarlet Overkill who, along with her ultra groovy husband Herb (Jon Hamm),is in need of some henchmen to help her take over England. Bullock's portrayal of Scarlet is evil, nasty and hilariously entertaining to watch. She's just simply a cold-blooded monster that we get to laugh at. So she's a despicable villain that you'll love to hate. The great Michael Keaton and Allison Janney play funny villain couple Walter and Madge Nelson respectively, who pick-up our hitchhiking yellow friends and take them along to the super cool Villain-Con where they meet their new master.

Co-director Coffin provides the voices to out three favorite minions: Bob, Kevin and Stewart. They're cute, yellow, funny and lovable and are so mass marketed now that I'll make you sick. Seriously these guys are freaking everywhere. But that's OK cause that's Hollywood for you. But in all honesty, I really did enjoy the movie and all the wacky, crazy schenanigans these three get into. Kevin is the brave leader who must keep them together and focused on their mission of locating a super villain to work for. Stewart is the guitar playing, smooth talking ladies man who might love his bananas more. And then there's Bob. Yeah, I love Bob. He's my favorite minion just because he's so damn adorable! I just wanna pinch those fat cheeks of his and give him a whole barrel of bananas!!

Overall MINIONS gets my vote for Best Family Film of the Year!! It'll warm your heart while make you laugh out loud with action and adventure that only a minion could have! So grab the family together and see this movie! 4 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

MINIONS is now available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. The movie is also available at your local Redbox as well as on Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

When George Lucas sold his company LucasFilm to the Walt Disney Company back in October 2012, Disney wasted no time in announcing that they were going to make the next trilogy installments to the STAR WARS saga. The legendary episodes VII, VIII, and IX were finally going to be made after all. At first I was kinda hesitant. Lucas had created this universe that has been loved and cherished my millions of fans spanning generations. It seemed very odd to think of seeing a STAR WARS film that he wasn't involved in. However, the prequels that he released between 1999-2005 didn't exactly live up to audiences' expectations. So maybe it was a good thing that he sold his company and walked away. Now a new generation of filmmakers who grew up watching the original trilogy will be able to continue to tell the story that took place a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. The first to take on this task was J.J. Abrams, the man who relaunched the STAR TREK franchise, would be the man who would direct the highly anticipated next chapter of the STAR WARS saga. For the past three years fans have been waiting impatiently for the movie to hit theaters. And now, the moment has arrived. This past weekend, I took my family to our local theater to finally see STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS in 3D.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: The Galactic Empire was defeated thirty years ago. The Galaxy is now facing a new threat: a new faction named the First Order. Their main mission is to rule the Galaxy and destroy all who oppose them. Their commander is a ruthless, mysterious, powerful Sith, Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). Kylo has an ambition to find and kill the last Jedi who is able to restore order and revive the Jedi ways, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill). Luke's unknown location is also a main concern for Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher), a General from the Resistance that now trying to find him too. Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Chewbacca (Peter Mayhew) meet some new companions: Finn (John Boyega), a defective First Order Stormtrooper, and Ray (Daisy Ridley), a scavenger from the Jakku planet who acquired Luke's location through a BB-8 rolling droid. This unexpected team is forced not only to fight and resist the First Order, but also to find Luke Skywalker.

Also appearing in the film are original trilogy cast members Anthony Daniels (C-3PO), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Kenny Baker (R2-D2) and new cast members Max von Sydow (Lor San Tekka), Domhnall Gleeson (General Hux), Andy Serkis (Supreme Leader Snoke), Gwendoline Christie (Captain Phasma), Lupita Nyong'o (Maz Kanata), Greg Grunberg (Snap Wexley), Bill Hader (BB-8) and special guest appearances from Simon Pegg, Judah Friedlander, Daniel Craig and voices from Frank Oz and Ewan McGregor.

First let me state that this is a SPOILER FREE REVIEW!! I will not reveal any part of the story or any of the surprises if you haven't seen the film yet (which begs the question why are you reading this and not going out to see the movie?). So now that I've made that announcement, let me take you all on a trip back in time for a bit. I will return to my review of the film after this important message.

When I was a small child in May of 1977, the world that I was growing up in was, how do I put it, still in a state of chaos. Nixon, Watergate, and the Vietnam War was still fresh in the minds of the American public. The gas crisis crippled this country for a bit, and the Jonestown Massacre shocked people into a state of disbelief and sadness. The United States, at that time, looked like it was about to spiral out of control. It was during this period of disenchantment that a little, low-budget, sci-fi film caught my eye and took me on an imaginary ride that forever changed my life for the better. Little did I realize, that same film would also inspire other people from all walks of life to shake off the shackles of responsibility, and for about two hours, let them feel like a child once again, to experience the wonders of the imagination. That film was STAR WARS, and it gave people the chance to feel free, and to feel inspired to create a whole new world for themselves. The STAR WARS saga defined a whole generation of people, and helped create a bona fide pop culture phenomenon that will last for as long as mankind exists. For myself, that night in 1977 forever ingrained that sense of wonder and hope.

Now I am older, wiser, and have responsibilities. Work, bills, the usual adult baggage that most of us have. A lot of my friends have children, and this new generation's world is in a sorrow state as well. The September 11 attacks, global warming, cutbacks on public schools while higher tuition costs for college students. Most recently, the Paris bombings and the unbelievable lack of gun control in this country has lead to an unfathomable amount of gun related violence and deaths. It seems that history does repeat itself, which is where this generation's imagination and hope resurfaced in a big way.

After the forgettable prequels left a bad taste in our mouths, J.J. Abrams came on board to do something to the STAR WARS franchise that hasn't been done in a long time: he brought back the magic, the imagination, and the wonderment that we needed so desperately. He made STAR WARS fun again. By telling a simply story of good versus evil but layering it with mythology, family issues, amazing characters, epic space fights and the power of the Force. And the use of real sets, practical effects combined with some CGI made it feel and look more like a real movie. That part I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing again. Suddenly, it was fun to go to the cinemas and be transported to another world in a galaxy far, far away. Watching this movie was like reliving my childhood of watching the very first film.

This now brings me to my review for the last film in the series. All I'm gonna say to all of you is this: STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS is one of the best films of 2015, and in the end, will be loved by audiences everywhere! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS in now playing in 2D and 3D in theaters nationwide. Check your local theater to see if it's playing near you.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

There's nothing Marvel Studios can't do. Sure, they can make film adaptions of their biggest and most popular characters like Iron Man, Captain America, Thor and the Avengers. But then Marvel took a huge gamble when they made GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY, an obscure comic book to adapt for the big screen. However, with James Gunn at the helm, it became one of their biggest and most popular films, transforming Groot and Rocket into household names. Now, those crazy kids are at it again, adapting one of their oldest characters and a founding member of the original Avengers in the comics. So let's get down to the small talk and discuss their newest film in their Phase Three plan entitled ANT-MAN.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Armed with the astonishing ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, con-man Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats. Against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Pym and Lang must plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.

The film also stars Evangeline Lilly (Hope van Dyne), Corey Stoll (Darren Cross aka Yellowjacket), Judy Greer (Maggie Lang), Michael Peña (Luis), David Dastmalchian (Kurt), Tip 'T.I.' Harris (Dave), Bobby Cannavale (Paxton), Abby Ryder Fortson (Cassie Lang), Martin Donovan (Mitchell Carson) and Marvel regulars Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson aka Falcon) and the beautiful Hayley Atwell (Peggy Carter).

Once again Marvel's gamble has paid off both handsomely and financially. Casting Paul Rudd as our lead and hero was surprising to me initially but the man pulled it off fantastically. His portrayal of Scott as our everyday, down on his luck, trying to get a head, average guy who just so happens to be our only hope of saving the day works. His comedic timing is perfect and he gets to kick some ass as well. What's great about having Rudd as our hero is that you believe him. He feel sorry for him and we are right with him when he's playing hero.

I never thought I'd see a Hollywood legend like Michael Douglas in a Marvel Studios movie. The man is an icon! The son of Kirk Douglas! He's starred in films like ROMANCING THE STONE, WALL STREET, BASIC INSTINCT, THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT, TRAFFIC and indie films such as KING OF CALIFORNIA, SOLITARY MAN and BEYOND THE REACH. But he is great as scientist/former superhero Dr. Hank Pym. Smart, tough and he has some of the best lines in the movie. Together, he and Rudd have great on-screen chemistry. We get a mentor/student and father/son relationship and we see this grow throughout the film. They play off on another and it looks like they had a lot of fun making this movie.

Director Peyton Reed has a long list of credits to his name. From directing films like BRING IT ON, DOWN WITH LOVE and YES MAN to television shows like New Girl,The Weird Al Show, and Upright Citizens Brigade, this guy is very talented and also vercified. He can direct a romantic comedy and then turn around and make this funny action superhero film. He does an excellent job of capturing the humor and the edge-of-your-seat action that Marvel is known for. The film was originally going to be directed by Edgar Wright, the man who bought us SHAWN OF THE DEAD, HOT FUZZ and THE WORLD'S END but left the project citing creative differences with Marvel. However, they still used some of his ideas for the film.

So once again San Francisco is our backdrop for the film. Now let me count how many films the city has been in this year alone: it's been in TERMINATOR: GENISYS, INSIDE OUT,SAN ANDREAS, VACATION, this film and it was also on the poster of PIXELS. Wow, things are getting crazy out here! But at least the filmmakers didn't do the whole "destroy the Golden Gate Bridge" thing again cause that shtick is getting really old fast.

Overall ANT-MAN is another worthy entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe that fans will have fun watching! And it'll also be fun as to how he'll be interacting with the other actors in the upcoming CAPTAIN AMERICA CIVIL WAR film. So we haven't seen the last of our super small superhero. So all you comic book fans out there, this is a must-see film!! 4 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommend!!

ANT-MAN is now available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. The movie is also available at your local Redbox as well as on Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Let me first start this review off by making this very important statement: I love Amy Schumer. Seriously I love Amy Schumer. I think she's funny, sassy, and smoking hot. She has the sexiest legs I have ever seen. And those eyes; they look so sultry but yet tough and independent. She has more balls than most of her male comedian peers. She's fearless when it comes to her stand-up performances. And those legs. Good grief I love this woman! I love you Amy!! OK, sorry about that people. I just had to get that off my chest. Now all of this leads up to today's review of her film TRAINWRECK which I finally saw.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Since she was a little girl, it's been drilled into Amy's (Amy Schumer) head by her rascal of a dad Gordon (Colin Quinn) that monogamy isn't realistic. Now a magazine writer, Amy lives by that credo - enjoying what she feels is an uninhibited life free from stifling, boring romantic commitment - but in actuality, she's kind of in a rut. When she finds herself starting to fall for the subject of the new article she's writing, a charming and successful sports doctor named Aaron Conners (Bill Hader), Amy starts to wonder if other grown-ups, including this guy who really seems to like her, might be on to something.

Also appearing in the film are Brie Larson (Kim), Vanessa Bayer (Nikki), Tilda Swinton (Dianna), Dave Attell (Noam ), WWE wrestler John Cena (Steven), Norman Lloyd (Norman) and LeBron James as LeBron James with cameos by Daniel Radcliffe and Marisa Tomei.

Amy Schumer is just laugh-out-loud hilarious in the film. Her performance as the swearing, drinking, pot smoking, rude, unapologetic, promiscuous, does whatever she feels like is so refreshing, honest and real. Now not only is she a really funny comedian and a talented actress but she also wrote the film as well! Her script is spot-on accurate with today's women who are just as rude, crude and sexist as their male counterparts. I had no problem laughing at the film. I think we need to see more female characters like Amy in today's films. We also get to see her grow as a person when she's caught off guard and falls in love with Bill Hader's character Aaron. It was interesting to see Bill play the straight guy cause usually he's the comic relief. When these two are on the screen together, there's magic right there. Their on-screen chemistry is perfect and we, the audience, fall in love with these crazy kids and we want them to be together. Truly, they are the perfect couple we can all relate to because they are us and vise versa.

Another aspect I thoroughly enjoyed were the funny, eccentric and diverse supporting cast. Quinn's Gordon is a misogynistic, racist, inconsiderate douchebag father we all love to hate, but we really do love guy. Swinton's Dianna is pretty much just as bad as Amy but only with a sexy British accent. Lovable Norm is a lovable guy that we wish was our grandfather. Dave Attell is Noam, who is one funny bum that I would like to have drink and piss with in the back of an alley. But the biggest surprise is wrestling superstar John Cena has the big, buff, homoerotic bodybuilder who seems very gay. I only say this based on the freaking hysterical dialogue he says in the film, especially during the sex scene and again in the movie theater. Trust me when I say that it is some funny ass shit!

The film was directed by the very talented Judd Apatow, the man responsible for making THE 40 YEAR-OLD-VIRGIN, KNOCKED UP and FUNNY PEOPLE and produced PINEAPPLE EXPRESS, BRIDESMAIDS and the ANCHORMAN films. Amy actually wrote the script with having Apatow directing it in mind so this was a match made in heaven. Great set-ups, awesome shots of New York and just overall an awesome and incredible director.

TRAINWRECK is my absolute favorite, laugh-out-loud, so funny my balls hurt, raunchy, vulgar, feel good, romantic comedy of the year!! So for all you ladies and couples out there who are tired of seeing the same old, boring, predictable rom-coms, then this film is for you! And don't forget to bring your box wine! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

TRAINWRECKis now available on both Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. The movie is also available at your local Redbox as well as on Netflix and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Happy New Year everybody!! Well, another has come and gone. While I didn't blog as much I would have liked to, I still saw a lot of films last year. Plus my life changed dramatically. I now have a fiancée, I'm getting married this year, I changed careers, I moved from San Jose to Sacramento, made some new friends, overall 2015 was definitely a transitional year.

However, 2016 will begin another fun-filled year, to which some very exciting projects I will be working on.

So for my first film to review for 2016, there was really only one choice. Now the name Quentin Tarantino conjures up a plethora of images and one-liners that most people associate with him. After all, this is the man who brought us some of the most original and most violent films ever captured on film. RESERVOIR DOGS, PULP FICTION, JACKIE BROWN, KILL BILL VOL. 1 & 2, GRINDHOUSE: DEATH PROOF, INGLORIOUS BASTERDS and DJANGO UNCHAINED are works of art that attract both critical praise and uproarious controversy. With his latest film THE HATEFUL EIGHT, Tarantino continues this streak while entertaining and shocking audiences worldwide.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Six or eight or twelve years after the Civil War, a stagecoach hurtles through the wintry Wyoming landscape. The passengers, bounty hunter John Ruth (Kurt Russell) and his fugitive Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh), race towards the town of Red Rock where Ruth, known in these parts as “The Hangman,” will bring Domergue to justice. Along the road, they encounter two strangers: Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson), a black former union soldier turned infamous bounty hunter, and Chris Mannix (Walton Goggins), a southern renegade who claims to be the town’s new Sheriff. Losing their lead on the blizzard, Ruth, Domergue, Warren and Mannix seek refuge at Minnie's Haberdashery, a stagecoach stopover on a mountain pass. When they arrive at Minnie’s, they are greeted not by the proprietor but by four unfamiliar faces. Bob (Demian Bichir), who’s taking care of Minnie’s while she’s visiting her mother, is holed up with Oswaldo Mobray (Tim Roth), the hangman of Red Rock, cow-puncher Joe Gage (Michael Madsen), and Confederate General Sanford Smithers (Bruce Dern). As the storm overtakes the mountainside stopover, our eight travelers come to learn they may not make it to Red Rock after all…

The film also stars Channing Tatum (Jody), James Parks (O.B Jackson), Dana Gourrier (Minnie Mink), Zoë Bell (Six-Horse Judy), Gene Jones (Sweet Dave), Keith Jefferson (Charly), Lee Horsley (Ed), Craig Stark (Chester Charles Smithers), and Belinda Owino (Gemma) as well as Tarantino as the Narrator.

First, let's get something cleared up. This is a Quentin Tarantino film. It's full of Quentin Tarantino humor, Quentin Tarantino over-the-top violence, Quentin Tarantino film references, Quentin Tarantino profanity, Quentin Tarantino racial slurs, and of course, Quentin Tarantino colorful cast of characters. So those who don't like this, then don't see it. Period. But don't criticize and bash it IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN IT!! It really pisses me off when people verbally trash a movie that they haven't seen!! You may think you know what you're saying, but in the end you're just talking out of your narrow minded ass!! So do us all a favor and knock that shit off!!

Oh, by the way, I really loved this fucking movie!!

Quentin Tarantino shot the movie on film stock, but not on just any old film stock but on 70mm film stock! This I found very interesting and somewhat perplexing since the majority of the movie takes place in one location. However, this is Tarantino that we're talking about so I'll let it pass. Now I saw this at my local movie theater chain so I didn't get to view his full vision of the film. The Weinstein Company is roadshowing the film in 70mm special theaters and it contains 12 minutes not seen in regular theaters so it looks like I'll be seeing this one again soon.

THE HATEFUL EIGHT is in my humble opinion Quentin Tarantino's best film ever! And I have seen all his films (all eight that he's made but you know what I mean) and it has everything you want in a holiday film and more. So bring grandma and have share a laugh while you two watch eight people beating, shooting, cussing and killing one another! Oh, and if it's playing in 70mm then go see that version! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE HATEFUL EIGHT is playing in theaters nationwide. The film is also being shown in limited 70mm screenings at selected theaters as well. In the Sacramento area, it's playing at the Tower Theatre in 70mm for a limited time. To view screen times, visit their website at www.readingcinemasus.com/tower.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

OK, I was planning on writing this anniversary tribute back in 2014 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the oldest independent film studio here in America, but my life has had several distractions in it (i.e. work, bills, etc). However, it's now time to party down because tonight's entry I'll be celebrating the 42nd anniversary of my favorite independent film studio of all time: TROMA ENTERTAINMENT!

As I mentioned previously, I discovered Troma through my favorite television show USA UP ALL NIGHT back on Saturday, March 21, 1992. They were showing all three TOXIC AVENGER films and I stayed up all night, devouring every single frame from each film. I had never seen anything like this before up until that time. This single event transformed my entire life forever and I have been a Troma fanatic and supporter ever since.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1979)

Troma was founded in 1974 by Yale graduates and friends Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz. Inspired by the films they saw from director Roger Corman and Sam Arkoff's company American International Pictures, they sought out to show the world that it was possible to make entertaining and provocative movies on shoestring budgets. Troma made a big splash in 1979 when they released their raunchy slapstick comedy classic SQUEEZE PLAY. They would make several other films in the same genre like STUCK ON YOU, WAITRESS and THE FIRST TURN-ON.

In 1984, Kaufman and Herz scored their biggest hit ever with THE TOXIC AVENGER. Blending over-the-top gore, comedy, horror, sex and the world's first full-on head crushing scene, the film played to huge crowds during its midnight run at the Bleaker Street Theater in New York and became an instant cult classic when it was released on video. The film has since spawned three sequels, a Saturday Morning cartoon show, toys, board games, tee shirts, video games, trading cards and remains to this day their flagship mascot.

Theatrical Movie Poster (1984)

Over the years Kaufman has directed several other cult classics like CLASS OF NUKE 'EM HIGH, TROMA'S WAR, SGT. KABUKIMAN N.Y.P.D., TROMEO & JULIET, POULTRYGEIST: NIGHT OF THE CHICKEN DEAD, RETURN TO NUKE 'EM HIGH PART 1 & 2 and all of the TOXIC AVENGER films.

The Troma library consists of over 1,000 + cult classics and B-movie gems such as SURF NAZIS MUST DIE, MOTHER'S DAY, RABID GRANNIES, MONSTER IN THE CLOSET, BLOODSUCKING FREAKS, KILLER CONDOM, TEENAGE CAT GIRLS IN HEAT, A NYMPHOID BARBARIAN IN DINOSAUR HELL, FEROCIOUS FEMALE FREEDOM FIGHTERS, THERE'S NOTHING OUT THERE, COMBAT SHOCK, GETTING LUCKY, SUPERSTARLET A.D., REDNECK ZOMBIES, HAUNTING FEAR, and FATHER'S DAY.

Among today’s Hollywood superstars who got their start with Troma include Marisa Tomie (THE TOXIC AVENGER), Vincent D’Onofrio (THE FIRST TURN-ON), Samuel L. Jackson (DEF BY TEMPTATION), Kevin Costner (SIZZLE BEACH U.S.A.), Billy Bob Thorton (CHOPPER CHICKS IN ZOMBIETOWN), Trey Parker and Matt Stone (CANNIBAL! THE MUSICAL), Michael Jai White (THE TOXIC AVENGER PART II), Jenna Fischer (LOLLILOVE) as well as writer/directors like Oliver Stone (THE BATTLE OF LOVE'S RETURN), Paul Sorvino (CRY UNCLE!) and James Gunn (TROMEO & JULIET).

Theatrical Movie Poster (2011)

The company has also acquired and distributed early films featuring some Hollywood's biggest stars such as Robert De Niro (THE WEDDING PARTY), Dustin Hoffman (MADIGAN'S MILLION), Carmen Electra (THE CHOSEN ONE: LEGEND OF THE RAVEN), Vanna White (GRADUATION DAY) and David Boreanaz (MACABRE PAIR OF SHORTS).

When he's not making movies, Lloyd Kaufman spends his time writing numerous instructional books, novels and memories. His first book, the autobiography "All I Need To Know About Filmmaking I Learned a From The Toxic Avenger" is recommended reading for anybody who wants to learn about the history of Troma and as well as about Kaufman himself. He's also written an novelization of his creation "The Toxic Avenger" and has a series of how-to books about the filmmaking process. "Make Your Own Damn Movie!" was the first in the series and became very popular amongst fans. He later wrote in chronological order "Direct You Own Damn Movie!", "Produce a Your Own Damn Movie!" and "Sell Your Own Damn Movie!", each book filled with real life experiences, helpful tips and his own unique and grotesque toilet humor which I love to read.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2014)

Kaufman also started the annual Tromadance Film Festival, originally designed to be the antithesis to the Sundance Film Festival, which was held in Park City, Utah at the exact same time as Sundance. The purpose of the festival is to celebrate truly independent cinema from the so-called indie films that were being shown at Sundance. Another appealing aspect of Tromadance is that there is no entry fee for filmmakers and all screenings are free to festival goers. In the past couple of years, the festival has been held in New York City and the month was moved from January to June.

In a show of appreciation to their loyal fans, Troma released over 100 films from their library to be watched for free on their YouTube channel beginning in August of 2012. Then in 2015, they took the next step in their quest in disrupting media (or in this case cyberspace) by launching Troma Now, the company's exclusive subscription Video-On-Demand service available through VHX. For only $4.99 a month, fans and movie lovers can watch their favorite Troma films, classic Troma shows, new releases and so much more. Their newest film to have its debut on the service back in January was B.C. BUTHCER, the world's first prehistoric slasher film directed by the then seventeen year-old Kansas Bowling, who was the first inductee into "The Troma Institute for Gifted Youth."

To give you an idea of what Troma movies are like, below are several trailers to some of my all-time favorite films. Warning: the following trailers contain gore, violence, nudity, sexual situation, foul language, radioactive squirrels, lesbianism, political and social commentary, cannibalism, singing and dancing, hideously deformed creatures of superhuman size and strength, severed body parts, cretans, nymphoid barbarians, surf nazis and a duck. Viewer discretion is advised.

Years later I was finally able to meet Lloyd Kaufman at the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica back on March 29, 2014. While I was attending the annual Monsterpalooza convention in Burbank that weekend, I found out the that the theater was having an all night Troma movie marathon. Not only that, but Kaufman himself was going to be there. So my friends and I rushed out to attend the event and finally, exactly 22 years to the month when I first saw THE TOXIC AVENGER films, I got to meet my hero. He was very kind and generous, answered all my questions and signed every single memorabilia I brought for him to autograph. The very next day I saw him and his lovely wife Pat at the RETURN TO NUKE 'EM HIGH signing at the Dark Delicacies Bookstore. I was able to take a picture with him and the Toxic Avenger. It was one of the best days of my life and do this day I still can't believe how lucky I am to have meet my hero.

Lloyd Kaufman, myself, and the Toxic Avenger. (2014)

It's hard to describe the impact Troma has had on our society, on pop culture and on film history. For over 40 years, Llyod Kaufman and Michael Herz have done the impossible: created a truly independent movie company with world wide appeal that has captured the hearts of millions of fans. To this day, Kaufman, Herz and Troma continue their fight against the major Hollywood studios and international corporate conglomerates. By going against the system, they have forged their own unique path that inspires fans and filmmakers alike. And after all these years, they still inspire me.

You can follow Lloyd Kaufman and Troma on several social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. To learn more about Troma, their enormous film library, to purchase Blu-Rays, DVDs, posters and to sign up for their streaming service Troma Now, visit their website at www.troma.com.

Thanks for reading, and now let's make some art!

DEATHGASM Blu-Ray (2015)

DEATHGASM
Starring: Milo Cawthorne, Kimberley Crossman, James Blake, Daniel Cresswell, Sam Berkley, Delaney Tabron, Stephen Ure

Written by Jason Lei Howden

Cinematography by Simon Raby

Edited by Jeff Hurrell & Gareth Van Niekerk

Produced by Sarah Howden, Andrew Beattie & Morgan Leigh Stewart

Directed by Jason Lei Howden

Production companies: MPI Media Group & New Zealand Film Commission

Distributed by Dark Sky Films

The problem I face these days is trying to get caught up with all the movies I've been wanting to see, especially my beloved horror films. Today's movie has been showing up on several "Best of 2015" lists from several websites and publications like Fangoria, Rue Morge and Dread Central. So I finally got around of seeing the ultra crazy, ultra gory and ultra hilarious New Zealand export DEATHGASM from Dark Sky Films.

The film's official synopsis: After his mother is institutionalized, misfit Brodie (Milo Cawthorne) is sent to live with his fundamentalist Christian uncle and aunt, whose son torments him. A heavy metal fan, Brodie forms a band called Deathgasm with his friends Zakk (James Blake), Dion (Sam Berkley), and Giles (Daniel Cresswell). When the bandmates break into a local house, they discover that one of their idols, reclusive musician Rikki Daggers (Stephen Ure) lives there. Daggers gives the band magical sheet music, which a cult later murders him to find. Skeptical of the sheet music's power, the band plays it, only to summon a demon. With the help of his crush, Medina (Kimberley Crossman), and his bandmates, Brodie must find a way to defeat the demon.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

After watching the film, I can see why this bad boy was on every horror best of list. Seriously, this was such an ingenious, absurd, funny and bloody movie to watch. You can tell that this was a labor of love and director Jason Lei Howden (making his feature length debut) should feel pretty damn proud. Combining the common ingredients of horror, humor and heavy metal music, Howden was able to make something totally different and unique. His influences were there, taking inspiration from Peter Jackson's DEAD ALIVE, Sam Raimi's EVIL DEAD and Edgar Wright's SHAWN OF THE DEAD. His playful attitude towards directing, his visual look of the film, the smart and funny script that he wrote himself and all the awesome blood and guts he showcases for fans. But what really sold me was the characters that inhabited this wild and crazy world where the film takes place. Unlike Hollywood's typical fake, two-dimensional interpretation, Howden's characters look and sound like real teenagers, thanks in large part to the spectacular cast.

Our lead Milo Cawthorne who portrays Brodie is just like the guy you went to school with: different, loner, has teenage hang-ups, looking for something to do, hates his family, despises his teachers, loathes his school, loves the pretty popular girl, basically he could've been you back in high school. Cawthorne does a fantastic job of conveying all this plus being a cool and sensitive heavy metal hero. His love interest is popular girl Medina, portrayed the gorgeous Kimberley Crossman. Funny, sweet and who is very handy with an ax, Kimberley brings a lot of fun, depth and blood-drenched beauty to her role. And let's not forget the bad ass heavy metal bad boy Zakk as played by James Blake. He is Brodie's best friend and worse enemy. Blake excels in his role and is the asshole best friend we've all had at one point in our youth.

Wal-Mart DVD Cover (2015)

With its theme of horror and heavy metal, you know that it was going to have a killer soundtrack, but I had no idea how freaking awesome it turned out to be! Boasting songs from bands like Bulletbelt, Axeslasher, Nunslaughter, Elm Street, Midnight and Beastwars, the film will make you bang your head while raising your fist high up in the air and give the heavy metal salute! Freaking awesome soundtrack people!!

The film was released by Dark Sky Films here in the states and was met with accolades, acclaim and rave reviews from critics and fans. However, it was met with resistance from the evil soul-sucking, poverty wage paying, corporate entity called Wal-Mart. According to an article published on the Bloody Disgusting website, "Yet another case of horror movies getting a bum rap as it's been announced the the Wal-Mart DVD edition of DEATHGASM will be changing titles to HEAVY METAL APOCALYPSE and that the artwork has been changed, removing the pentagram but allowing a gun. After all, Satan is evil and cannot be promoted in any way, shape, or form, but guns are fine." The sheer stupidity and hypocrisy of this blatant form of censorship makes me angry. Basically, Wal-Mart is just swapping an imaginary evil for an all too real evil that's been plaguing society and taking away lives on a daily basis for decades. Now it's understandable why this has to be done. With Wal-mart being one of the largest retail chains out there, having your movie there will get exposure and sales at the register. I just think their logic is just stupid as hell. But then again, I fucking hate Wal-Mart and all that they stand for.

DEATHGASM is a heavy metal horror comedy masterpiece that will make you shout at the devil and laugh at the face of Death! It is the most outrageous gore soaked comedy horror film that I have seen in a long time! Fans of the genre need to see this movie! So go out and buy this movie right now! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

DEATHGASMis currently available on Blu-Ray and DVD. Visit your local retailer or order directly from Dark Sky Films. You can follow the film on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about Dark Sky Films visit their website at darkskyfilms.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

I've never been a big Vin Diesel fan. Granted people love the guy and yes, I guess he's kind of a sexy bad ass in the FAST AND THE FURIOUS series. But for the most part, he's just not a very good actor. There, I said it. I did like him as Groot in GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY but, then again, he only had one line that he repeated throughout the film. And Groot was a computer generated character so he officially didn't appear in it. So when I saw his latest film THE LAST WITCH HUNTER, I found myself thinking that Vin Diesel should probably stop making movies all together and just do voiceover work.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: The modern world holds many secrets, but the most astounding secret of all is that witches still live amongst us; vicious supernatural creatures intent on unleashing the Black Death upon the world. Armies of witch hunters battled the unnatural enemy across the globe for centuries, including Kaulder (Vin Diesel), a valiant warrior who managed to slay the all-powerful Queen Witch (Julie Engelbrecht), decimating her followers in the process. In the moments right before her death, the Queen curses Kaulder with her own immortality, forever separating him from his beloved wife and daughter in the afterlife. Today Kaulder is the only one of his kind remaining, and has spent centuries hunting down rogue witches, all the while yearning for his long-lost loved ones. However, unbeknownst to Kaulder, the Queen Witch is resurrected and seeks revenge on her killer causing an epic battle that will determine the survival of the human race.

Wow, this was such a bad movie. I mean really, really bad. Really bad acting, really bad characters, a script that sounded like it was written by a sixth grader, everything was just bad. This is a film that I can see Michal J. Nelson, Kevin Murphey and Bill Corbett from RiffTrax making fun of (hint hint guys). I still can't understand how films like this get made. Who in their right mind would greenlight a project like this and think it'll do well at the boxoffice? C'mon Mr. Hollywood Big Shot Executive, you cannot be that naive! You should've known that this movie was going to suck ass! And yet you still went ahead and gave the "go ahead" and made this piece of crap. And it bombed hard at the boxoffice but you knew that was bound to happen. Vin Diesel plus good movies do not add up at all. So stop making crap and start making good movies please! Thank you!

Another factor I'm dumbfounded is why in the hell is Michael Caine in the film? He is a talented and legendary actor whose made some amazing and powerful works of art. The man has apoerared in ZULU, ALFIE, BATTLE OF BRITAIN, THE ITALIAN JOB,THE MAN WHO WOULD BE KING, A BRIDGE TOO FAR, DRESSED TO KILL, HANNAH AND HER SISTERS, THE CIDER HOUSE RULES, THE PRESTIGE, CHILDREN OF MEN and the DARK KNIGHT TRILOGY. He's one of the all-time greats and yet he appeared in this abortion of a film. Why Michael? You're better than this. Did you do it for the money? We're you just bored? Seriously I really want to know! Get back to me later on buddy!

So in conclusion, THE LAST WITCH HUNTER is a total piece of shit that will make you feel dumber after watching it. The film doesn't even qualify for the, "It's so bad it's good" moniker. It's just bad. Don't even waste your time with this movie. Go watch paint dry because let me tell you that would be more entertaining that watching this movie. 1 out of 5 stars!! Just say no to this movie!!

THE LAST WITCH HUNTER is still playing in select theaters and is also available on Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. It's also available on Redbox and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

As a kid, I grew up reading the classics: Dr. Seuss, The Little Golden Books, The Hardy Boys and so forth. These books were so much fun to read that I'd read the same books five or six times. The idea of getting lost in a book and imagining you were on the ship hunting Moby Dick, or swinging through the jungle as Tarzan, or traveling 10,00 leagues under the sea. Fast forward to the present and today's generation of kids are reading a different kind book. One the is spooky and creepy, filled with chills and thrills, bizarre creatures and horrifying monsters. The series is called "Goosebumps" and they are written by the prolific R.L. Stine. The books were adapted into a very popular television series on the children network Nickelodeon that ran from 1995 to 1998. Then finally in 2015, the books was brought to the big screen. So let me tell you what I thought about the film GOOSEBUMPS.

Theatrical Movie Poster (2015)

The film's official synopsis: Upset about moving from a big city to a small town, teenager Zach Cooper (Dylan Minnette) finds a silver lining when he meets the beautiful girl, Hannah (Odeya Rush), living right next door. But every silver lining has a cloud, and Zach's comes when he learns that Hannah has a mysterious dad who is revealed to be R. L. Stine (Jack Black), the author of the bestselling Goosebumps series. It turns out that there is a reason why Stine is so strange... he is a prisoner of his own imagination - the monsters that his books made famous are real, and Stine protects his readers by keeping them locked up in their books. When Zach unintentionally unleashes the monsters from their manuscripts and they begin to terrorize the town, it's suddenly up to Stine, Zach, Hannah, and Zach's friend Champ (Ryan Lee) to get all of them back in the books where they belong.

Unlike the televisions series which each episode focused on one particular story and character, the film featured of all these every single characters that haunts within the pages of Stine's books. Black is fantastic in the film as our strangely bizarre and reclusive writer and he also provides the voices of the creepy ventriloquist dummy Slappy and the Invisible Boy. Both Minnette and Rush have great on-screen chemistry as out teen leads and lovers Zach and Hannah, who has a very cool secret that gets revealed in the middle of the film. Lee as Champ is a riot and reminds us all that one friend we had growing up that was just completely nerdy. But he gets his redemption by defeating a werewolf and saving the girl he likes. You go Champ!!

Director Rob Letterman made is feature length debut with the 2004 computer animated family film SHARK TALE, which did very well at the boxoffice. He then followed that film up with MONSTER VS ALIENS in 2009. After making two computer generated films, in 2010 Letterman made his first live-action movie GULLIVER'S TRAVELS, which marked his first collaboration with Jack Black. With his knowledge of making family films and taking on the classic children book series, Letterman once again proves that he has the ability to direct an awesome movie that is both fun and filled with action and humor with a touch of chills to keep the kids entertained as well as their parents.

GOOSEBUMPS is a worthy adaptation to a classic literary series that families will enjoy for years to come. The movie really does belong in your film library much the the book series should be on your kids' bookshelves. It really is that good of a film and one that needs to be seen over and over again. 4 out of 5 stars! Recommended viewing!

GOOSEBUMPS is now available on Blu-Ray and DVD at your local retailer. It's also available on Redbox and Video On Demand.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

THE TOXIC AVENGER Blu-Ray/DVD (2015)

THE TOXIC AVENGER

Starring: Andree Maranda, Mitch Cohen, Mark Torgl, Jennifer Babtist, Cindy Manion, Robert Prichard, Gary Schneider, Pat Ryan

Written by Joe Ritter, Gay Partington Terry & Lloyd Kaufman

Cinematography by Lloyd Kaufman & James A. Leobovitz (James London)

Edited by Richard W. Haines

Produced by Lloyd Kaufman & Michael Herz

Directed by Michael Herz & Lloyd Kaufman (Samuel Weil)

Distributed by Troma Entertainment

Hello everybody and welcome to a brand new segment entitled Phil Gets Tromatized. Here, I'll be reviewing the many, many films that Troma has released in the past 42 years. Now some movies are classics, some alright and there are those that suck horribably. However, for my inaugural entry, I'll be talking about the most famous hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength and the first superhero from New Jersey: THE TOXIC AVENGER.

The film's official synopsis: Meet little Melvin. He's a 98lbs loser who works at the Tromaville Health Club where he gets picked on a lot. But when a practical joke goes awry, Melvin falls into a vat of chemical waste, thus transforming him into a hideously deformed creature of superhuman size and strength. Melvin becomes The Toxic Avenger, the first superhuman from New Jersey! Soon Toxie is fighting crime and cleaning up Tromaville, much to the chagrin of its fat corrupt Mayor Peter Belgoody (Pat Ryan). But can Toxie and his blind and beautiful girlfriend Sara (Andree Maranda) survive the wrath of the mayor's revenge?

Original Teaser Poster (1984)

Every time I watch this movie, I feel like I'm eighteen years-old again. Being a movie lover, I had never seen anything like this. It was absolutely amazing to watch. Kaufman and Herz also added social commentary to the film, touching on issues like chemical waste, the environment, the underdog becoming the hero and more. There's always something interesting to look for in a Troma movie.

This is the film that put Troma on the map. Originally, nobody wanted to see the film. But when it was booked at the midnight screenings at the Bleeker Street Cinema, the word of mouth spread. Soon there were lines around the block. With its gratuitous nudity, gore, the infamous head crushing scene, toilet humor, and not so special effects, the film went on to win the hearts of fans and became an instant cult classic! The film has spawned three sequels to date (with a fourth one in the works), a children's cartoon show, merchandise, action figures, books, games, etc. Troma had created their own mascot and the world hasn't been the same since. The little New York independent film studio had just became part of pop culture and film history.

To this day, I still get excited whenever I watch the THE TOXIC AVENGER. And finally, after years of seeing the movie on edited VHS copies, Troma released a director's cut of the film back in the mid 90's. Now in the 21st century, it has been transferred on to Blu-Ray and it looks phenomenal. As a result, a whole new generation of fans can now discover this cult classic in hi-definition and get the same kind of excitement as I have been experiencing for the past 22 years. 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

THE TOXIC AVENGER is now available on both standard DVD and as a Blu-Ray/DVD combo. To purchase a copy for yourself, visit your local retailer or visit the Troma website at www.troma.com.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Happy Valentine's Day everybody! Now, I'm not a huge Valentine's Day fan, only because all it is really is a made up holiday created by a evil conglomerate greeting card corporation (I'm looking at you Hallmark Cards) for the only purpose of selling their lame holiday themed cards. However, today is a day for celebrating, but not for St. Valentine's sake. Nope, today is the 85th anniversary of one of the greatest horror films ever made. Yes horror hounds, I'm talking about the 1931 Universal Pictures classic DRACULA!!

Original Movie Poster (1931)

The film's official synopsis: Bela Lugosi stars as Dracula in the 1931 original screen version of Bram Stoker’s classic tale. Towering ominously among the shadows of the Carpathian Mountains, Castle Dracula strikes fear in the hearts of the Transylvanian villagers below. After a naive real estate agent succumbs to the will of Count Dracula, the two head to London where the vampire hopes to stroll among respectable society by day and search for potential victims by night. Directed by horror specialist Tod Browning, the film creates an eerie, chilling mood that has been rarely realized since and remains a masterpiece not only of the genre, but of all time.

Originally silent film actor Lon Chaney, star of THE HUTCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, and LONDON AFTER MIDNIGHT had made a series of films with famed cult director Todd Browning for Universal Pictures. Browning's next project for studio was DRACULA and he was going to cast his friend for the lead role. However, on August 26, 1930, Chaney died from a throat hemorrhage.

The Hungarian born Lugosi created the role of Dracula on the Broadway stage and became a sensation. However, Universal originally didn't want Lugosi to portray the Count and as a result, wasn't even placed on their list of potentials. However, the studio gave him a test screening and eventually he was cast in the lead. The film was released on Valentine's Day in 1931. The rest, as they say, is cinematic history.

The film became a huge sensation and it spawned several sequels including DRACULA'S DAUGHTER, SON OF DRACULA and HOUSE OF DRACULA. Also, during the making of the Todd Browning classic, Universal was also simultaneously making a Spanish version of DRACULA for their Mexican market. Browning's cast and crew would film during the day and then director George Melford and his stars Carlos Villarías (Dracula), Lupita Tovar (Eva), Barry Noton (Juan Harker) and the rest of the Spanish cast and crew would film on the exact same sets at night. Also, they would look at the dailies from Browning's shoot and decided the they could do better. Some fans have said the the Melford version is scarier than Browning's. As for me, I love them both but I have to go with the Lugosi version and I'll tell you all way that is.

Universal Classic Monsters Blu-Ray Boxset (2012)

I first saw the film when I was four years-old. It was 1977 and our local television station KTVU Channel 2 out in Oakland used to show a lot of the old black and white horror movies from when my parents were kids. I remember playing on the living room floor and my dad sitting on the couch watching T.V. Then he told me to look up and look at what was one the screen. It was DRACULA and I distinctly remember just being in awe at what I was watching. The Gothic setting, the cobwebbed infesting spooky old castle, the howling of the wolves and then, standing on the staircase stood the iconic Lugosi as the caped clad vampire. It was the most amazing film I had ever seen. It was the very first horror film I ever saw and soon, I watched all the other classic Universal monster movies. But it was DRACULA that got me into loving horror movies and the genre.

Over the years the film has been released on VHS, DVD, and then in 2012, Universal released a brand new restored version of the film for their Universal Classic Monsters Blu-Ray Boxset. Last year, the studio released the films individually for fans and horror film lovers. Now a whole new generation can watch these treasured classics in stunning Hi-Definition.

DRACULA is one of the greatest horror films ever captured on celluloid. It started off the Universal Monster cycle with Lugosi creating the look and sound of the vampire and became the standard for all other Dracula movies to follow. One of the most important movies in film history!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended and required viewing!!

DRACULA is currently available on both Blu-Ray and DVD and can be purchased at your local retailer or by visiting the Amazon website at http://www.amazon.com

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

Before Marvel Studio came into excistance, 20th Century Fox were the ones making movies based on Marvel's most popular properties. The X-MEN franchise plus the WOLVERINE spin offs and the FANTASTIC FOUR films were huge hits at the boxoffice (OK maybe not so much the FANTASTIC FOUR films cause those were pretty crappy but Jessica Alba was smoking hot in those films). When X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE came out in 2009, the film introduced a mouthy little mutant named Deadpool, portrayed by the one and only Ryan Reynolds. This movie version of the popular Marvel character resembled nothing like its comic book source and it was meet with some very negative feedback. Fans wondered if they would ever get an authentic Deadpool origin movie. Fast forward to February 2016, and for this Valentine's Day weekend, I took my fiancé to see DEADPOOL from 20th Century Fox. And yes, it was that damn funny!!

Theatrical Movie Poster (2016)

The film's official synopsis: This is the origin story of former Special Forces operative turned mercenary Wade Wilson (Reynolds again), who after being subjected to a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers, adopts the alter ego Deadpool. Armed with his new abilities and a dark, twisted sense of humor, Deadpool hunts down the man who nearly destroyed his life.

At this point, I usually give my thoughts and opinions about the film. However, I thought it would be more fun to just list what I loved about the film (and it has nothing to do with me being lazy or anything like that).

1) Ryan Reynolds portrays Wade Wilson aka Deadpool perfectly. He stays very faithful to the Marvel Comics character. He really is the Merc with the Mouth: a funny smart ass who's also a bad ass that kills a lot of people and has the best one-liners in the whole world. What's not love about this guy? Oh, and he takes pot shots at BLADE 2, GREEN LANTERN and his shitty version of Deadpool from X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE.

2) Director Tim Miller makes his feature length debut and knocks it out of the park! He captures the violent and the randomness that made the comic books so popular to begin with. Plus he keeps the moving going while giving the audience the chance to get emotionally involved with our characters before shit hits the fan. Great set-ups, awesome directing, two big thumbs up to you Mr. Miller and congrats on making a big splash with your debut buddy!

3) Hats off to screenwriters Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese for crafting one of the most hilarious, profanity filled, sexual innuendo intended, over-the-top violence and pop culture referenced script that made me laugh my ass off! What's interesteting about the comics is that Deadpool always breaks the fourth wall; he talks directly to the reader, he knows that he's a character in a comic book and he's constantly referencing to the pop culture of today and says the worst things at the wrong time. These two were able to capture the spirit of the comic and the character spot-on!!

3) Well, hello there Morena Baccarin, who portrays Deadpool's hot, sexy, sassy, sexy, caring, sexy, loving, sexy, beautiful, sexy (did I mention she was sexy?) girlfriend Vanessa. Now, I was surprised seeing her in the film because she plays Dr. Leslie Thompkins on the hit DC Comics television show Gotham. And here she she doing a sex scene in an R-rated Marvel property film. Damn girl you got some big balls there! And good for you! You were fantastic in the film! You were tough, compassionate, dramatic, and your awesome on-screen chemistry with Reynolds made it feel more real. We cared about your character and we believed in your performance so congrats on an excellent job Morena!!

4) Stan Lee's cameo is fucking awesome! 'Nuff said!!

5) One must give credit to Deadpool's creators. Artist Rob Liefield and writer Fabian Nicieza debuted him in the now classic New Mutants #98 back in 1991 (holy crap I'm old!). I don't think they had a clue as to just how popular he was destined to become. Believe it or not, I still have that issue in my collection and I just recently found it. Awwwwww.......how I miss the simplicity of my younger days. Anyway, in the intro of the movies there's a Starbucks coffee cup and the name on it says Rob L. Just one of the many Easter Eggs to look for in the film.

6) Speaking of the film's intro, the opening credits are freaking hysterical! Instead of listing everybody's names, the use generic descriptions like Miller is credited as "An Overpaid Tool" while Reynold's is "God's Perfect Idiot." Then there's Baccarin as "The Hot Chick", Lee's billed as "A Gratuitous Cameo" and the screenwriters billed themselves as "The Real Heroes Here." Now imagine reading these credits while watching a vehicle with Deadpool killing its passengers in mid flip with Juice Newton's "Angel of the Morning" playing the background and you get an idea of the tone of the movie.

7) Did I mention it was violent as hell? Oh yeah it's fucking brilliant! Heads getting blown off, bodies crashing into freeway signs, heads getting chopped off, it's just brilliant!!

8) The numerous references to pop culture is abundant, not to mention the poking fun at the X-MEN and WOLVERINE films. Oh and stick around after the end credits because there's two bonus scenes at the end (What? I'm not spoiling it for you people. It's a Marvel film. There's always a bonus scene at the end of the credits. Where the hell have you been hiding?).

9) For all you ladies out there that are being dragged kicking and screaming by your significant other (because that's the politically correct thing to say) to see this movie, there's something for you here: it's a love story. Granted, it's a love story that filled with raunchy humor, explosions and foul language but there's heart in this movie. So, there you go. Yeah. Moving on now.

So, in case you were wondering, DEADPOOL is a fucking party bus movie filled with laughs, guns, mutants, romance, strippers and so much awesome action that you'll shit your pants with excitement! This is the perfect to movie to have sex while eating a chimichanga smothered in red sauce with a dollop of sour cream to give it that right flavor! And you're probably wondering what the he'll I'm talking about! To be honest I don't have a clue either! Just go an see this movie!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

DEADPOOL is currently playing in theaters as well as in IMAX nationwide. Check your local theater for show times.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

WE ARE STILL HERE Blu-Ray (2015)

WE ARE STILL HERE

Starring: Barbara Crampton, Andrew Sensenig, Lisa Marie, Larry Fessenden, Monte Markham, Susan Gibney

Written by Ted Geoghegan

Cinematography by Karim Hussain

Edited by Aaron Crozier & Josh Ethier

Produced by Travis Stevens

Directed by Ted Geoghegan
Production Company: Snowfort Pictures

Distributed by Dark Sky Films

Within the horror genre, there are many different subgenres that cater to a horror fan's taste. Recently, the supernatural theme has been very popular among fans and at the boxoffice. With the films THE CONJURING and INSIDEOUS, it seems like the classic ghost story is once again back in style. Recently, Dark Sky Films released one of the best supernatural films of 2015 that I finally got around to see. Like DEATHGASM, this film also made its way into several Top 10 lists from horror websites and publications. Needless to say, WE ARE STILL HERE is another sensational smash from the independent film distributor.

The film's official synopsis: After their teenage son is killed in a car crash, Paul (Andrew Sensenig) and Anne (Barbara Crampton) move to the quiet New York countryside to try to start a new life for themselves. But the grieving couple unknowingly becomes the prey of a family of vengeful spirits that reside in their new home, and before long they discover that the seemingly peaceful town they've moved into is hiding a terrifyingly dark secret. Now they must find a way to overcome their sorrow and fight back against both the living and dead as the malicious ghosts threaten to pull their souls - and the soul of their lost son - into hell with them.

Festival Movie Poster (2015)

Writer/Director Ted Geoghegan did a fantastic job crafting a film that made my skin scrawl. There a couple of factors about the film I really enjoyed. The first being is that it's a slow burn; meaning it takes its time and the scares and tension slowly builds up towards this explosive climax that'll make scream with fright. Most horror films lack this element and just go straight to the scares, which fine but nowadays that's all most horror films are. They lack the peaks and valleys that were commonly found in the older horror films. Thanks to Geoghegan's genius script, it moves us closer and closer to the edge of our seats and we wait with anticipation for the next scare to frighten us.

Second, it's a period piece. The film takes place sometime in the 1970's, which was when these kinds of films were made. Movies like THE EXORCIST, THE OMEN and THE AMITYVILLE HORROR terrified audience during this time and influenced many of today's filmmakers in the horror genre. Now I have a big soft sport for 70's horror films. Reason being is that at this time the new Motion Pictures Rating System came to effect and soon many directors like Wes Craven, William Friedkin, Tobe Hooper, Larry Cohen, John Carpenter, Brian DePalma and George Romero were pushing the envelope regarding to on-screen violence, gore, suspense, sex and nudity combined with social and political commentary.

Third is Geoghegan's style of directing which is really quite simple and very effective. Normally directors will try to get experimental with their set-ups and angles and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. But sometimes it can be a distraction and could take the audience out of the movie. This is not the case here and Geoghegan does a superb job of terrifying us with the simplest cinema techniques like creaking sounds and subtle camera tricks that sends chills running up and down your spine.

The acting in the film is fantastic and all deserve a huge round of applause. However I would like to single out the beautiful and talented actress Barbara Crampton. She has been a favorite with genre fans since she portrayed Megan Halsey in the 1985 Empire Film RE-ANIMATOR. Crampton has gone one to act in other noteworthy horror films like FROM BEYOND, CHOPPING MALL,TRANCERS II, CASTLE FREAK and LORDS OF SALEM. To most mainstream fans she's best know for playing Leanna Randolph from the television soap opera The Young and the Restless. In this film she's plays grieving mother Anne Sacchetti and does a phenomenal job of bringing her to life. The emotional roller coaster Anne goes through is substantially trying on her. The loss of her son, trying to rebuild her life, emotionally detached from everything and surviving the horrifying paranormal threat that wants to kill her and her husband. This legendary acting icon is able to visually express all of these different ranges of emotions and then some. Truly an underrated actress, Crampton gives a tour-de-force performance that rivals any of those so-called Hollywood actress!!

WE ARE STILL HERE is easily one of the best horror films that you will ever see! With a solid script, outstanding acting and stunning directing, any horror aficionado would welcome seeing this astounding work of art!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!

WE ARE STILL HERE is currently available on Blu-Ray and DVD. Visit your local retailer or order directly from Dark Sky Films. To learn more about Dark Sky Films and their upcoming film releases, visit their website at darkskyfilms.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!

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