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Silent Scream review

Posted in Other Slashers with tags , , , , , , , on May 23, 2013 by Alex Roy

8165__x400_silent_scream_poster_01Silent Scream (1980)

Tagline:Terror so sudden there is no time to scream”.

Directed by:
Denny Harris

Produced by
Denny Harris
Joan Harris
Jim Wheat
Ken Wheat
Leslie Zurla

Run Time:
87 minutes

Released:
August 7, 1980

Review:

Obscured Slasher film is a good little shocker, but one that relies on the traditional genre formula in order to create the carnage on-screen. What we have here is a film that is entertaining, but doesn’t break new ground and it is predictable. Diehard Slasher fans will certainly love this one, especially if you enjoy obscured, forgotten horror films, Silent Scream is for you. The kills are well done, and there is a steady build up to the first murders, which gives the film a tense atmosphere. Even if it’s not a perfect film, this is a must see for genre fans, and it works as mindless entertainment. While relying on the traditional genre elements, Silent Scream is still one of those obscured gems that will delight fans even if it’s predictable. The performances are decent at best, but the strength of the film lies in its kill sequences which are well thought out and will certainly put you on the edge of your seat. If you love films like this, give this one a shot, but it does leave room for improvement and it is a film clearly has its limitations, but manages to be an entertaining Slasher yarn due to the fact that the film has good sequences of murder and a few tense moments. As a whole, it’s not the worst in the genre, but is not the best either. As obscured Slashers are concerned, this one delivers, but it could have been rewritten to expand on its interesting ideas that the director tried to convey. Silent Scream is a must for genre fans but if you’re keen on low budget shockers, then this one is not for you. Still for all its imperfections, it’s an entertaining ride from start to finish and I had fun watching the film. I simply wish that the script could have be revised and its ideas refined to make this one truly standout.

Final Rating:
6/10

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The Evictors review

Posted in Psychological Horror, Haunted House Films, Psycho Horror with tags , , , , , , , , on May 23, 2013 by Alex Roy

evictors

The Evictors (1979)

Tagline:  It was a small Louisiana town where people live and love and die and no one ever thought of locking their doors… except in the Monroe house.

Directed by:
Charles B. Pierce

Produced by:
Charles B. Pierce

Run Time:
92 minutes

Released:
April 18, 1979

Review:

Once in a while there comes an obscured gem that is truly an exciting and thrilling horror experience. The Evictors is such a gem, this is a well acted and directed horror yarn that is a must see for genre fans. This is a film that relies on the basics to tell a good story and it works. The cast is great as well and comprises underrated actor Michael Parks and actress Jessica Harper. This is a creepy an intense movie that is sure to satisfy fans who love obscured horror films. The film relies on atmosphere to set the tone of the film and it successfully builds up tension and dread in the viewer. Films like this are a rare commodity and deserve to see the light of day. The direction by director Charles B. Pierce is great, and can craft a terrific horror picture that is genuinely unnerving. The film at times could have been better, but it relies on a good cast to elevate the story and brings on the tension that fans are looking for in a traditional horror film. Films like this are far better than most films in the genre. This is a well acted, directed and told horror picture that goes for basic chills rather elaborate and poorly thought out sequences that simply don’t work. The Evictors is a worthy addition to the genre and one that is a must see for horror fans looking for a well acted and genuinely eerie film. The Evictors is entertaining from start to finish and it is one of the best obscured titles that I have seen in quite some time.  If you come across this one, give it a shot, you will be surprised at how good it is.  

Final Rating:
7/10

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The Vampire Lovers review

Posted in Vampire films, Hammer Horror with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on May 6, 2013 by Alex Roy

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The Vampire Lovers (1970)

Tagline:If you dare… taste the deadly passion of the BLOOD-NYMPHS

Directed by:
Roy Ward Baker

Produced by:
Michael Style
Harry Fine

Run Time:
91 minutes

Review:

The Vampire Lovers is an underrated vampire yarn that is well acted and directed. The film owes its success to its atmosphere, which adds so much to the tone of the film. Director Roy Ward Baker has picked a fine cast of talented actors, including Hammer horror icon Peter Cushing, who gives a standout performance. Ingrid Pitt is wonderful as well, and this film will certainly give genre fans something worthwhile to watch. Although not perfect, this is a vampire film the wait it is meant to be. The story is quite good, and well layered, and like I said, the film is underrated and it doesn’t deserve the flack it has received. There are enough tense, atmospheric scenes throughout the film that will certainly keep you on the edge of your seat. This is a fine film that is worth checking out and Hamer horror enthusiasts should seek this one out as it is an overlooked film that hasn’t gotten the recognition it deserves. This is among the best vampire films in the genre, and it belongs on the short list of must see vampire licks. The tone and atmosphere of the film sets this one apart from others, and there is a constant feeling of dread on-screen, and it adds so much to the film. Add to that menacing performance of Pitts and you have a highly entertaining horror film that has enough chills to appeal to genre fans. This is a surprising film that relies on a good story, effective visuals to create the chills on-screen. Roy Ward Baker crafts something unique here, and I think this title has been overlooked and it really deserves a second chance. This is horror in its basic form, and it uses it to its advantage to create something entertaining and bone chilling all at once. This is what horror is supposed to be and if you’re looking for a good vampire film that delivers terror, then give this one a shot. There is romantic overtones throughout the film and it sets this film apart from others in the  genre. The Vampire Lovers adds sensuality to its imagery, and it creates something riveting and ultimately exquisite in the process.

Final Rating:
7/10

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The Monster Squad review

Posted in Horror Comedy, Modern Monsters, Sci Fi Horror with tags , , , , , , , on May 6, 2013 by Alex Roy

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The Monster Squad (1987)

Tagline: Call them for a monster-ous good time.

Directed by:
Fred Dekker

Produced by:
Jonathan A. Zimbert
Keith Barish
Rob Cohen
Peter Hyams
Neil A. Machlis

Run Time:
82 minutes

Released:
August 14, 1987

Review:

Fred Dekker who previously directed Night of the Creeps delivers yet another slap of original horror with The Monster Squad. Dekker crafts a fun, and entertaining picture that will surly delight the most demanding genre fan. Although not on par with Dekker’s previous work, this is still an enjoyable film that has a great cast and a fun story that is entertaining from start to finish. Some people have said this was a horror comedy version of The Goonies, but I think it’s quite different.  The Monster Squad has its flaws, but it works well enough to keep you interested. The cast do a good job with the material, and they keep it engaging and fun despite occasionally being imperfect. This is a pretty good idea for a horror comedy, and it is among the best of the genre. Fred Dekker crafts a worthy follow-up that is funny and bizarre, but constantly riveting despite its imperfections. The monsters are wicked, the effects are well done, and the characters are likeable. If you love these types of films, then you’ll surely enjoy it. The story itself is what keeps you involved in the film, and the result is a fun movie that will certainly delight genre fans. I don’t see why this one got so much flack as it is an original gem of a horror comedy that has plenty of memorable moments for its short run time. Sure there could have been changes in a few areas, but overall this is a worthwhile film that demands to be seen if you enjoy horror comedies. Fred Dekker has made a fun and whimsical picture that delivers unique thrills. Sadly, this would be his last great movie as he would go on to helm the third part in the Robocop trilogy, which is horrible film, and Dekker would never stand behind a camera again. Who knows how many other horror gems he could have made.

Final Rating:
7/10

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The House on Sorority Row

Posted in Other Slashers with tags , , , , , , , on April 15, 2013 by Alex Roy

house_on_sorority_row_poster_01

The House on Sorority Row (1983)

Tagline:Where nothing is off limits

Directed by:
Mark Rosman

Produced by:
John G. Clark

Run Time:
91 minutes

Released:
January 21, 1983

Review:

The House on Sorority Row is an overlooked Slasher that deserves to be rediscovered by genre fans. The film relies on the typical genre elements which we’ve seen in many other films, but is nonetheless a worthwhile film that is a forgotten film in a genre where numerous films have been overlooked. This is such a film. Although not perfect, The House on Sorority Row has an interesting story that is reminiscent of films like Terror Train and Prom Night. The performances are typical of the genre, and none really stand out. However the kill scenes are great and there is plenty to offer to fans. I felt that this was an overlooked film in the Slasher genre and I feel that horror fans should definitely watch this one as it is far better than most Slasher outings of the era. Director Mark Rosman crafts a film that takes its tie to build up the tension, and it’s something that works well and separates this film among others in the genre.  The film could have used a higher body count, but that’s not entirely a bad thing because Rosman opts to create a tense, suspenseful film, which distinguishes itself in the genre as being a different. Instead of the usual slash and kill, you get something atmospheric, and genuinely tense. If you want to watch something quite different from your standard Slasher, give this one a shot. While maintaining the traditional formula, Mark Rosman has directed a very good underrated genre picture that should definitely appeal to horror fans looking for a forgotten cult hit. The film overcomes its weak aspects by giving the viewer a terrifying, brooding atmosphere, which adds so much to the enjoyment of the film.

Final Rating:
6/10

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Cemetery Man review

Posted in Horror Comedy, Italian Horror, Zombie Films with tags , , , , , , on April 7, 2013 by Alex Roy

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Cemetery Man (1994)

Tagline: Zombies, guns and sex, oh my!

Directed by:
Michele Soavi

Produced by:
Heinz Bibo
Tilde Corsi
Giovanni Romoli
Michele Soavi

Run time:
105 minutes

Released:
March 25, 1994

Review:

Cemetery Man is a fine comedy horror film that is effectively directed by horror master Michele Soavi, who has made his mark in Italian horror by directing La Chiesa (The Church). Soavi crafts yet another memorable horror film that is a very entertaining and is sure to delight zombie film fans. The film has everything that you’d expect from Italian horror films is here, and the film, though not perfect is a must see for genre fans. The film has enough gore and effective genre elements to keep you interested and delivers something amusing on-screen. Cemetery Man is good for what it is, but it is not the best effort from director Soavi, who has made far better pictures in the 80’s. As a whole, take this film as a mindless picture that manages to overcome its imperfections by giving zombie fans plenty of undead carnage on-screen. The plot may be at times lacking, but with a film like this, the zombies are all that matters and Michel Soavi direction gives viewers plenty to enjoy despite its flaws. Cemetery Man is not the greatest of Italian zombie pictures, but it definitely isn’t the worst. This film was deemed to be a Comedy horror film; the comedic tone of the film is flat and virtually nonexistent and the film’s material has a much darker tone in retrospect.  I enjoyed the film, but like I said, Soavi made far better films, but overall this is an underrated film that deserves to be revisited by genre fans. The film is bizarre enough to make it a worthwhile viewing experience. Cemetery Man is a unique zombie offering, one that is sure to delight fans who are looking for good gore and zombie mayhem.

Final Rating:
6/10

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Cold Prey 2: Resurrection (Fritt Vilt II) review

Posted in Foreign Horror, Cold Prey series with tags , , , , , , , , on April 7, 2013 by Alex Roy

poster

Cold Prey II (2008)

Tagline: Marerittet Fortsetter 10.Oktober…

Directed by:
Mats Stenberg

Produced by:
Martin Sundland
Kristian Sinkerud

Run Time:
86 Minutes

Released:
October 10, 2008

Review:

Sequel to Cold Prey is a pretty good follow-up, continuing where the first left off, this entry is a good film, but one that could have been improved upon. The first Cold Prey brought back the best elements of the Slasher film, while adding atmosphere and tension. While maintaining some key elements that made the first film what it was, this follow-up manages to be thrilling and tense, but there could have been a few improvements here and there to make it a better film. The lack of truly original material on-screen is to be expected from this genre of horror. Luckily despite its imperfections, this follow-up to Cold Prey still has plenty of effective bone chilling moments to appeal to the viewer. The film takes a different approach in terms of plot, and it is quite interesting to see where the filmmakers take the story. What separates this follow-up from others is that though it uses the same old formula, the filmmakers at least try to create something new with the material while retaining everything that you’d expect. Despite its weak bits, there are still plenty of tense moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Like Hatchet II, Cold Prey II manages to reuse the formula executed from the first film, and add to it, to make it a worthwhile movie to watch. Just when you’d think that the filmmakers have stretched the genre into every possible angle, they came up with this. Not a perfect film, but one that manages to still thrill and entertain you, compared to many other films that just fails due to the fact that Hollywood only is interested in remaking classics. Cold Prey 2 delivers and is a fine follow-up to a modern Slasher classic.

Final Rating:
7/10

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Cold Prey 3 ( Fritt vilt III) review

Posted in Foreign Horror, Cold Prey series with tags , , , , , , , , , on April 7, 2013 by Alex Roy

cold-prey-fritt-vilt-3-norway-poster-2_139117959

Cold Prey Beginning (2010)

Tagline:

Directed by:
Mikkel Brænne Sandemose

Produced by:
Martin Sundland
Kristian Sinkerud

Run Time:
95 minutes

Released:
October 15, 2010

Review:

Third film in the Cold Prey trilogy is a prequel to the first two films and it takes place in the 1980’s. For a third entry in a Slasher franchise, this still has plenty of effective ideas to make it an interesting watch for genre fans. Cold Prey still has all the necessary things that you’d expect from this series, and it not only relies on gory kills, but suspense and atmosphere to build the tension on-screen. The Norwegians are truly wonderful in creating intense horror films that bring back traditional elements that has made the genre worth seeing. This prequel should appeal to fans, but like every other third part in any series, the film does start to show a certain lack of inspiration. Luckily the film does still have lots to offer for fans looking for effective thrills. Cold Prey 3 could have been done better, but like I said, there is enough good material presented here to make for a worthwhile viewing experience. I enjoyed the prequel and it has everything that I enjoyed from the first, albeit a tad watered down. However that is to be expected from a third film. This entry still has lots of gore and effectively great kill sequences that make up for a good Slasher film. The Cold Prey films were a breath of fresh air in a horror genre that was stagnant, cliché and lacked anything that was truly entertaining. For a prequel, Cold Prey 3 will surely appeal to fans and it is a horror picture that delivers the good yet again. Although this better be the final entry in the series as we see that the film’s ideas are struggling in some areas. Nonetheless, this is still a worthwhile movie and one that delivers from start to finish.

Final Rating:
6/10

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Hospital Massacre review

Posted in Other Slashers with tags , , , , , , , on March 24, 2013 by Alex Roy

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Hospital Massacre(1982)

Tagline:There’s no recovery room at…Hospital Massacre

Directed by:
Boaz Davidson

Produced by:
Yoram Globus
Menahem Golan

Run time:
89 minutes

Released:
April, 1982

Review:

During the slasher craze of the 1980’s, many films have come out, and have since forgotten due to the fact that there have been many other films that have overshadowed their existence. One such film is Hospital Massacre. This is a genre film that doesn’t try anything new with its formula, and it is just a collection of clichés with an average plot.  The strength of the film lies in its effective kill sequences, which are quite bloody, and creative. The film could have been better, but it definitely manages to be a good Slasher film for genre fans looking for an underrated, obscured flick. The film leaves a lot of room for improvement, but overall it is a well crafted horror yarn that relies on a brooding sense of atmosphere to build its tension. This is a worthy addition to the genre, and though far from perfect, it still gives genre fans something that is entertaining to check out. The kill sequences are what makes up for the forgettable performances. If the script would have been rewritten, this Slasher could have stood out among the very best in the genre. As it is, it’s a good outing, and one that is sure to please the most diehard of fans. Hospital Massacre is a bit different, and does offer some tense atmosphere, which is what most films lack. However, most of the time relies on all the ingredients that have made the genre popular among fans. The film is a must see for fans of obscured horror yarns, and though lacking in great story, the gore and kill sequences more than make up for it.

Final Rating:
6/10

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The House That Dripped Blood review

Posted in Horror Anthologies with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 11, 2013 by Alex Roy

house_that_dripped_blood

The House That Dripped Blood (1970)

Tagline:TERROR waits for you in every room in The House That Dripped Blood

Directed by:
Peter Duffell

Produced by:
Milton Subotsky
Max Rosenberg

Run time:
102 minutes

Released:
February 22, 1971

Review:

The House That Dripped Blood is a near flawless horror anthology that has a great sense of atmosphere which carries on through each story. The film succeeds on many levels due to its well written script, great acting and brilliant directing. This is a great anthology that has well crafted stories that are truly chilling. Director Peter Duffell direction is confident and he has a clear understanding of what makes an effective horror picture. Horror legends Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing give great performances here, and each story has something special to offer to fans. Of all the anthology films that has graced the horror genre; The House That Dripped Blood remains one of the best and is a classic of the genre. If you’re looking for genuinely creepy stories, then this movie will surely provide you with what you’re looking for. The film delivers something unique in terms of effective horror, and with a great cast, a wonderful script, this is a stunning anthology that remains a well structured movie that stands out above others in the genre. The film mixes all sorts of elements and works well in being a memorable film that stands out among others. This is a brilliant movie that is a must see for anyone looking for four spooky, well constructed stories in one picture. Director Peter Duffell has made a stunning movie that I enjoyed from start to finish. The cast that Duffell work with makes this one quite entertaining and with legends like Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing, this is a winner.   If you come across this one, give it a shot, you’ll most likely enjoy it.

Final Rating:
8/10

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