The Initation is a product of good old 80's slasher formula. Just by the title you are probably assuming that this deals with a sorority pledge, which it does. Daphene (Melrose Place) Zuniga, who plays Kelly Fairchild is tormented from childhood nightmare memories. However, Kelly is now in college and she wants to join a sorority group. The initiation prank involves spending the night inside of an empty mall. While the college kids are trapped inside of the mall, they begin to get killed off as the night progresses. This movie moves along well. I especially like the fact that it's set inside of a mall. Other successes which are set inside of a mall include Jim Wynorski's "Chopping Mall," "Dawn of the Dead" and "Phantom of the Mall: Eric's Revenge." I don't know exactly what it is, but I enjoy that setting for a horror film. I also appreciate the acting capabilities of one Clu (Return of the Living Dead) Gulager. This guy is an awesome actor, no matter what role he is faced with. It also has some good fatalities in it. Check out the one with the arrow, it was right on point:) "The Initiation" is very comparable to such films as "Slumber Party Massacre," "House on Sorority Row" and "Scream" As one who frequently watches horror movies, I do recommend this one!
Reviews
34 Reviews
Leeches!
(2003 Video)
Awful - stay away
14 October 2010
Let me start off by stating that this is NOT the first David DeCoteau film that I have seen. I am actually familiar with his work, if that's what we'll refer to it as. It was disgusting to watch the many segways of homo-erotic behavior that Leeches promoted. Prior to viewing this, I had watched "Final Stab," which had also disappointed me. It featured two dudes making out. We don't need this stuff in a horror picture. Maybe I was just a little late in catching DeCoteau's subliminal messages that he was trying to reach across towards his audience. Many of the shots on "Leeches," had the slow motion effect at which time men were getting out of the lake and when they were changing into their speedos. There were a FEW WOMEN in this film that I would have enjoyed to watch strip down. Instead, DeCoteau wanted to focus more on the male gender. He killed the ladies off real quick. I guess that I was expecting a little more out of "Leeches." I had expectations that we could put it alongside "Slugs." Nope, instead DeCoteau can rank this crap alongside some of his other hideous projects, which include possibly the worst movie of all time "Creepazoids." If you are a horror fan, stay away because this was truly awful!
Witchboard
(1986)
This Is No Game; This Is Witchboard
30 September 2005
Witchboard is by far one of the best movies, along with NIGHT OF THE DEMONS that Kevin S. Tenney has put out. Linda Brewster(infamous 80s' Vixen Tawny Kitaen) along with Jim Morar throw a party at their home. Brandon (Stephen Nichols from DAYS OF OUR LIVES) Sinclair gets into a religious debate with some of the other guests at the party. This leads Brandon to bring out his Ouija board. The term Ouija originates from the French and German words, "we and yes." In any event, Brandon and Linda participate in summoning the spirits of the unknown, particularly a ten-year-old boy named David. Things get said and and emotions get out of the control. This leads to an abrupt ending to the party. Brandon leaves the party after exchanging words with Jim. After doing so, he forgets to take his Ouija board with him. Linda begins to use the Ouija board and problems start to snowball from there on. Ultimately, Linda falls victim into the stages of progressive entrapment. Now, Jim and Brandon must work together to save Linda from this demonic possession. I really liked the character Jim Morar, played by Todd Allen. Jim is a multi-talented individual who has been to med-school, yet by day he works as a construction worker. He has his own problems, such as alcoholism, but buy and large he is a good man and a good companion for Linda. This movie has strong acting performances by Todd Allen and Stephen Nicholas. It's also cool to see James W. Quinn play the character of Lloyd. James has been in most of Tenney's other films such as NIGHT OF THE DEMONS and WITCHTRAP. I HIGHLY recommend this movie.
Pinocchio's Revenge
(1996)
A disappointment from such a talented director
27 September 2005
I was really disappointed after viewing Pinocchio's Revenge the other night. I had a good inclination that it was going to be a bad one, but I didn't think that it'd be as bad as it turned out. A wooden puppet of a murdered boy falls into the hands of an attorney's eight-year-old daughter. From there, it is a murderous path for anyone who gets in the way between the puppet and the little girl. We've seen movies like this before, i.e. the Child's Play series, which is by the way, far better. However, it was good to see actors like James W. Quinn and Todd Allen. Both of which have worked under Kevin Tenney before. In any event, I encourage viewers to check out "Night Of The Demons" and the original "Witchboard." These are titles that tend to bring out the best in Kevin S. Tenney.
Deadtime Stories
(1986)
A Creepshow rip-off
23 February 2005
DEADTIME STORIES was released a few years after the release of George A. Romero's CREEPSHOW. However, Deadtime isn't anywhere close to the caliber of quality that CREEPSHOW is. This movie is comprised of three stories, all of which totally suck. The first story deals with witches, as they perform stupid experiments. The second story is based on a guy that gets his pharmaceutical prescription screwed up with another patent's. This causes him to change into a werewolf. Finally, the third and final story is a black comedy that has the viewer forced to follow the path of three escaped mental patients who shard a country house with a character by the name of Goldi Lox. The bottom line is that all of these stories suck. It's a shame a producer thought that this project would be a success. I wonder what he was smoking?? The movie has a cool box cover, but that is all. AWFUL.
Black Roses
(1988)
Do you want to see someone get sucked through a speaker? It's here
23 February 2005
The town of Mill Basin gets their opportunity to host the hard rock band Black Roses. However, I don't think the band tours anywhere else. Anyways, once they arrive in town, it's hell on earth. The kids soon get demoniacally possessed after listening to too much of this hard rock music. The band's vocalist, Damian, is the main culprit for all of the chaos. Damian's got a cool look. He's dressed in all black and has a cool hair style. This story kind of gets its premise from the problem with hard rock and all of the suicide incidents from real life situations attached to such bands as: Slayer, Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne. Black Roses was released in 88', which was right around when these law suits unfolded. This sort of music was really popular then and parents and teachers really were against this entire movement. The story basically takes the premise that if you listen to Heavy Metal, you too, will become a maniac. It sure makes one laugh. The kids in this picture begin shooting their parents and beating up their fellow classmates. The script isn't that great, but the 80's music makes up for it. Time after time, you'll hear LIZZY BORDEN's "Me Against The World." This song is featured at least three or four times. There is also a cool song by the title of "Soldiers in the Night." This song, too, really cranks! The special effects are cheesy, but they seem to work for satisfactory basis. I like the part when a guy gets sucked through a mounted wall speaker, case in point to my summary title. Stay away if you can't handle a juvenile script and head banging music from the 80's. 5/10
Slumber Party Massacre III
(1990)
Just as good as the original
15 February 2005
If you didn't enjoy any of the previous films, than you probably will find no enjoyment from this one. However, I did enjoy this first film and I absolutely hated the second one. Now, we have another group of beautiful California co-eds who decide to throw a slumber party because someones parents are out of town for the weekend. Once these girls bust out their bikinis and brew, the terror begins. However, this time, it's not Russ Thorn or a 1950's resurrected rock star. Instead, it's a rather normal looking individual. And yes, he comes along with a drill. Check this movie out if you want to see people getting drilled from the front seat of a car, electrocuted in a bathtub and then stuffed in a garment bag, or maybe you want to see someone get impaled with a house for sale sign. There's plenty of good stuff here with SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE III. 9/10
Slumber Party Massacre II
(1987)
The worst entry in the series
15 February 2005
I don't care what anybody says, SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE sucks in every way possible. It's based on a few girls that get away to vacation home. One of them happens to be Courtney, who was the survivor of the original film, which is in my opinion far superior. Anyways, Courtney is a teenager now and she and her friends are trying to get away for the weekend. However, Courtney is troubled by reoccurring nightmares of the "Driller Killer." Once everyone gets settled in, the mayhem starts. Only this time, mental patient Russ Thorn is not the killer. Instead, it's some lame rock n' roll figure with an electric guitar. He almost looks like an 80's rocker, but his music isn't anywhere in that realm. I would have liked to hear some POISON, RATT, MOTLEY CRUE, EUROPE or DOKKEN on the soundtrack. Nope, instead we get lame rock n' roll garbage. Come on now, this is the 80's not the 50's. The killer has a drill attached to the end of his guitar, to which is how he kills his victims. The premise is just ridiculous. It's not funny, in any fashion. There are however, some hot chicks in it. Case in point, Heidi (Friday 13th VII, Sociey) Kozak. But it's not her fault that the story sucked so bad. Heck, she just needed a paycheck. STAY AWAY from the second entry of the series. You are far better off cashing in on the first and third installment of the series.
The Slumber Party Massacre
(1982)
Classic
15 February 2005
"Slumber Party Massacre" is one of the foundation slasher flicks of it's time (early 80's). It's based on a high school basketball team that has a slumber party. Nearby, Russ (Michael Villella) Thorn just escaped out of the local mental hospital and he decides, even though he wasn't invited, to crash the party. Hell, I would too, these ladies are hot! However, Russ doesn't show up with booze, instead he brings along a huge drill, which is his primary weapon. So, we have a slumber party with the basketball team, an escaped mental patient and I almost forgot about Brinke (Linda) Stevens. Brinke, plays the girl next door. She is babysitting her little sister at the time and kind of wishes she was invited, too. Shame, shame on the popular teammates for not inviting her. Anyways, soon enough, they'll be needing her help. I really do have a special place in my heart for this movie. It's one of those slasher flicks that I saw when I was a kid. Later on, I showed it to a buddy of mine, and he didn't have the same admiration that I did. I remember him quoting me that the music score sounded like a "keyboard exercise." To this day, I still laugh at that remark. Anyhow, if you are into the slasher flick scene, you need to see this!
Night of the Creeps
(1986)
Zombie's and Slugs, what more do you want?
15 February 2005
I just watched "Night of the Creeps" last night with a buddy of mine. It took a while to hunt this VHS tape down because for one, it is not available on DVD and two, it's no longer in print for VHS. Nonetheless, we were able to track it down at one of the local video stores in town. Upon arrival, we asked about renting it, the clerk simply told us that he'd be willing to sell the tape to us for $1.00. Yes, I couldn't believe it myself. Anyways, "Night of the Creeps" delivered in every way possible that a good 80's horror picture could. Sometime in the early 1950's an alien organism landed on earth. Once it came into contact with a humans, it'll immediately infect them. Also, this segment of the movie was cool because during the 50's portion, it was all shot in black and white footage. Some thirty plus years later,(specifically the 80's) the alien organism is contained in a frozen morgue. In an effort for a fraternity prank, a couple of nerds end up breaking into the morgue so that they can steal a corpse at random.. However, these two dweebs end up chickening out. They get as far as just unfreezing the zombie and essentially setting him free. And of course, these two knuckleheads have no idea as to the why this thing is frozen. Once these guys crap their pants, the zombie then starts to make an exit for himself. Detective Ray (Tom Atkins) Cameron is now assigned to this case. Apparently, he had an early meeting with this organism during his rookie years on the force. Once he arrives to the crime scene, he has some awesome quotations. Anyhow, it's up to Tom and a few of the college punks to stop this alien organism from spreading any further. And spreading the alien does, in some rather disgusting ways. Once you think that you killed the alien organism, it'll transform into a mutant slug. Again, this is really cool. "Night of the Creeps" has some real awesome special effects for it's time. This movie is a cross between a good sci/fi flick and a zombie movie. It totally delivers in a gruesome ways. Primarily it's a horror film, but there is plenty of humor to go along with it. I take my hat off to Tom Atkins for his acting capabilities. Tom was also great in the original "Creepshow." Towards the end there are some cool ways that our protagonists try and put a stop to these zombies. The problem solving includes, but is not limited to: shotguns, flame throwers, hair spray and gasoline. Bottom line, if you can, go ahead and rent this gem. You'll totally be pleased. I ended up giving it 9/10. My friend on the other hand, didn't seem to agree with me on this. He scored it 6/10, which I totally couldn't understand. However, his girlfriend ended up arriving approximately three quarters into the picture. She had some personal issues to which she didn't eat or something, and he wasn't able to devote his undivided attention towards the motion picture. If you are a fan of: "Night of the Living Dead," Night of the Demons," "Slugs" or "Return of the Living Dead," you'll want to check this out for yourself. ENJOY!!
Good, but I was expecting more.
14 February 2005
Warning: Spoilers
"Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers" was a movie that as a kid, I was anticipating for quite some time. Growing up, I was infatuated with the character of Micheal Myers. I remember seeing both sequels of parts IV and V in the theater with my Dad. After watching the fifth installment, I was puzzled by the ending. Immediately, I wanted to know who that man was with the black trench coat and black boots that had pointed silver tips on the front of them. I couldn't understand what connection this man had with Myers, especially that strange tattoo marking on his forearm. I felt cheated with the ending where this man bails Michael Myers out of jail. In this case, it was without currency. Instead, he bails him out with an arsenal of high powered assault rifles. Once I heard that a sequel was being made, I totally got excited. I thought, finally all of my questions were going to be answered. That was really not the case, though. For starters, Jamie Lloyd's character gets killed of in the beginning of the film. I was upset about this because I thought that after she made films IV and V, she was an asset to the series. However, it didn't bother me too much because Danielle Harris didn't reprise her role. I guess she wanted $5,000 and Dimension didn't want to give it to her. I think that was Dimensions loss because for a kid, this child could act. All of the basics settings are the same. Everyone in Haddonfield seems to think that M. Myers is forever gone because he was killed in the fire at the police station at the end of the fifth sequel. Nope, it's now six years later and Myers is back. This time Dr. Loomis comes back for one last battle with his estranged patient. Unfortunately, it was Donald Pleasance's last role in movie cinema. He died shortly after completion of this film. The character of Dr. Loomis could have been better used. I am not sure that I agreed with the approach that the director, Jim Chappelle, took on this film. Still, the movie left a lot of questions to be answered. I heard that Daniel Farrands wrote a total of 11 drafts for this script. Well, the one that he chose to go with didn't impress me, as I was expecting it to. The movie certainly isn't the worst sequel in the series. I did think that it is better than "H20" and "Halloween: Resurrection." Both of those sequels stunk. Stay away from the genre LL Cool J, Busta Ryhmes and Josh Hartnett. All of these jerks really screwed up some potentially good movies. Both of these sequels had good directors attached to the projects and I think that casting these characters might have ruined the films altogether. Both Rick Rosenthal and Steve Miner were good choices. Anyways, back to Halloween 6, once it ended I got to see who the "mountain man" was all about, I was disappointed after waiting all these years for a good follow-up sequel. It just didn't fall into place, as I thought it should have. Maybe it is hard to do a follow up to a sequel with such a strange ending, as did "Halloween V". I don't know what the problem was, but I felt that I was shorted on this film.
Howling VI: The Freaks
(1991 Video)
Poor sequel
14 February 2005
Howling VI: The Freaks absolutely sucks. For starters, the only reason I own this DVD was because Artisan came out with a double feature DVD of this, along with Howling V: The Rebirth. I needed to have the fifth installment in my horror library, it's a good one. I did post a review on Howling V, so if you are interested check that one out. Now, back to Howling VI, this movie is set at a carnival freak show with some hideous creatures, and the premise is between a vampire and a werewolf drifter. One would think that this would be an epic battle, but it's totally below expectations. This unsatisfactory film lacks any sort of highlighted special effects or a decent plot. They could have done a lot more with this and they didn't. I remember watching this movie late one night at my Grandparents house when I was a kid. I didn't like it then, and after viewing it again, I haven't grown to appreciate it now. I don't want to go on and on about this sorry picture, so I will stop. There is nothing here.
Howling V: The Rebirth
(1989)
The best of the HOWLING movies
14 February 2005
Howling V: The Rebrith takes place in an ancient medieval castle set in Hungary. The castle has been dormant for 500 years, and now there are a selected group of guests that are invited to spend a weekend there. Furthermore, none of these guests have had any previous contact with one another. It's not like they're there for a birthday bash or something of that nature. But soon enough, they realize they have more in common than they first expected. As the savage murders begin, they cannot escape the castle, essentially they are trapped inside its walls. By the way, the castle is sure a creepy one. I really love the atmosphere of this movie. And once all of that starts up, it's a game of who's the werewolf. The special effects are nothing special in this film. However, I think that the way the film carries itself proves that you don't need a ton of blood to have a good horror film. It's too bad that you don't get to see too much of the werewolf. I don't know if the budget contributed to this, or just maybe that's the way Neal (director) Sundstrum wanted things. Speaking of Sundstram, I would have liked to see him direct some other features. As far as I know, this is the only movie that he has directed. And finally, the ending has a good twist to it. I've seen all of the Howling films, and this is by far the best in the series. Howling V has no relationship to the previous films, outside of the title. 8/10
The Notebook
(2004)
A load of CRAP
11 February 2005
Come on people, what is new about this story? If you are a male and actually sat through this junk it's probably because your girlfriend or wife thought it would be a romantic evening well spent. Well, isn't that just sweet? Now I have spent approximately 12 minutes looking over the reviews that folks posted in regards to this junk. I cannot believe that people are falling head over heels for this picture. I don't see anything original or creative about this, which would make it worth my $9.00 (adult ticket),nor my $2.00 (rental fee). We've seen this story too many times. Boy meets girl at a carnival and they then fall in love. Oh wait, doesn't every love story need to have the adversity issues near to the middle of the film? Well, of course they do, and this one follows the trendy path. Ally, the girlfriend, develops Alzheimer's disease. Gosh, my heart just poured right into my lap once this was revealed. Look, all you guys out there that raved about this film are a sorry excuse for the male gender. Now it's your turn to have her sit through a movie. Go ahead and torment her with films like "Roger Dodger", "Zomibe", "Cobra", "Die Hard", "Slumber Party Massacre","Nightmare On Elm Street 3: The Dream Warriors", or "Vice Academy." I think that with those titles you'll be able to form some sort of a decision. The only redeeming thing that this movie offered was that James Gardner had some affiliation with the film, and that is the only reason that I even give it two starts. There is NOTHING NEW here.
Demons
(1985)
A pimp, tramps, sport coats, puss, blood and most importantly DEMONS
8 February 2005
Warning: Spoilers
*Contains Spoilers* Selected at random, people are handed movie theater tickets for a special screening of a horror movie. As soon as the audience begins to find out what is going on, they attempt to escape, but they then soon discover that that they are trapped inside of theater. Horror impresario Dario Argento wrote this tale of Demons attacking people while they are trapped inside of a theater. It's directed by Lamberto Bava. Yes, he is the son of Mario (Shock) Bava. I really liked the audience members that they had in this film. More specifically, I enjoyed watching moments with Tony the Pimp. It's too bad that they killed him off early in the film. It would have been nice to keep him around for a while. This guy had some hilarious lines. Also, I wasn't able to recognize a single cast member in the film. And when I checked the credits, I saw that mostly all of their names ended with some kind of pasta or Italian dish. In addition, it was noticeable that some of the voices had been dubbed. The dubbing issue is something that you constantly have to learn to deal with viewing Italian horror films. All in all, the dubbing wasn't a big issue. The best thing about this movie was the gore factor. This was just awesome. The special effects on this movie just made it all that better. I especially liked the scene where the black tramp went inside of the bathroom and she then transforms into a demon. The make-up was out of this world. The puss, her teeth, all made up for excellence. Also, pay attention to the soundtrack. This soundtrack features the likes of Motley Crue, Accept, Saxon and Billy Idol. I DO highly recommend this film.
DOKKEN rocks the soundtrack
4 February 2005
There is no argument that this picture was the best sequel in the series. Chuck (Eraser) Russell sits in the directors chair and he gets assistance on the script by Wes Craven, Frank (Shawshank Redempiton) Darabont and Bruce Wagner. For the third installment, Freddy preys upon a group of dysfunctional teens who are all at a psychiatric ward. There, Freddy haunts these teens in their dreams. The kids then turn to help from previous survivor of the original Nancy (Heather Lagenkamp) Thompkins. Nancy, along with doctor Neil (Craig Wasson) Gordon show a genuine interest in helping these kids battle the evil Fred Kreuger. Dr. Gordon's character is really played by a believable Craig Wasson. This guy had me in awe the entire way throughout the movie. Nightmare 3 sets the precedent with all the Freddy humor and one-liners that follow throughout the series. It was something that was first implemented on this picture and it continued on with Freddy in the future killing sprees. There are also some real good fatalities on this picture, none of which I am about to spoil for you folks. Above all, Dokken cranks out the gem of "Dream Warriors." This song still blows me away each and every time I hear it. George Lynch, who is the guitarist for Dokken, along with Jeff (bassist) Pilson, collaborated to write this song. And while all of Lynche's guitar solos are awesome, his work on "Dream Warriors" is particularly searing. Along with "Dream Warriors," Dokken also adds "Into the Fire" on the soundtrack. This song is played while Patricia Arquette is building the paper house house in the beginning of the film. Arquette's mother yells at her to turn down that music or else she'll wake the entire neighborhood. Such a statement deserves the penalty of death. "Hey, where do you keep the bourbon?" Although "Into the Fire" was not originally composed for the Dream Warriors picture, this song can still crank with the best of 80's rock. For those that are interested, "Into the Fire" can be found on the "Tooth and Nail" album. All in all, this is one of the BEST horror films to emerge from the 80's horror genre. I'd surely put it on my top 10 list for the all the reasons I mentioned. Go and check it out, and if it's not for you too bad! 10/10
Dawn of the Dead
(1978)
"When there is no more room in hell, the dead will walk the earth."
4 February 2005
Many horror buffs consider this picture a classic. I enjoyed it, but I wouldn't rave about it perhaps as the others would. "Dawn of the Dead" picks up after the original "Night of the Living Dead leaves off. However, this picture focuses a different diverse group of survivors. The group consists of 4 humans, two of which are members of the Philadelphia Police S.W.A.T. unit. They get access to a helicopter and manage to land on the roof top of a gigantic shopping mall, known as the Monroeville Mall. There, they have access to living supplies and they are able to set up living quarters for the next several months. During this point, it when I started to realize that the movie was dragging on. Don't forget, this picture has a running time of 128 minutes. That's a long picture for a horror movie, and it's not 128 minutes of constant gore. For example, there are scenes of the humans playing tennis, eating dinners, etc. A lot of this stuff could have been left out of the picture. Later throughout the movie the group encounters a group of a ruthless biker gang, one of the gang members of which is Tom Savini, who is responsible for the make-up effects. This biker gang has plans break into the mall and loot the shops. Now, the 4 person group must not only be concerned with the Zombies, but also the biker gang. It sort of makes for an interesting dilemma. This movie has some worthy gore scenes that would leave some viewers appalled. I don't want to in any way bash this film. I just thought that the length of the film blemished it a bit. Personally, I thought Lucio Fulci's "Zombie" was a better Zombie picture. I also recommend the original "Return of the Living Dead" for your zombie pleasures. 7/10
Q: The Winged Serpent
(1982)
If you sunbathe, work in construction or wash windows, then beware
29 August 2004
Q: The Winged Serpent is set in New York, where there are two simultaneous stories taking place at once. Mainly, we are dealing with an Aztec Serpent, precisely identified as Quetzalcoatl, which nests up in a skyscraper, but when often hungry, it'll come out of the Chrysler building to snack on human flesh. It looks like a dinosaur with wings. On the other hand, we have some crazy wacko that is obsessed with summoning the serpent to perform the acts of murder. Yes, these two stories are connected.
The cast highlights David (Kung-Fu) Carradine and Michael (The Stuff) Moriarty. Both actors did a fine job in their roles. Moriarty's character is weak and the extent to which L. Cohen explains his character is lacking depth. L. Cohen tries to draw sympathy for Moriarty's character, but falls short. Since it was made in the early 80's, you can see the different hair styles and the out of style clothing attire. I am directing this totally towards David Carradine, as he has long straight unkept hair, which cover both his ears and he has some bad outfits, which include sportcoats and hideous suit vests.
Q: The Winged Serpent was made in the early 80's, so the special effects are kind of cheesy. No, the serpent isn't scary, but it is basically the way L. Cohen shoots and directs the picture to make it worth watching.
I didn't find it as interesting as other Cohen movies, such as: "The Stuff" or the "It's Alive" trilogy. However, based on other reviews, most found Q to be one of Cohen's best pictures. I disagree; it just didn't do it for me as some of his other films.
I give it 4.5 out of 10
The cast highlights David (Kung-Fu) Carradine and Michael (The Stuff) Moriarty. Both actors did a fine job in their roles. Moriarty's character is weak and the extent to which L. Cohen explains his character is lacking depth. L. Cohen tries to draw sympathy for Moriarty's character, but falls short. Since it was made in the early 80's, you can see the different hair styles and the out of style clothing attire. I am directing this totally towards David Carradine, as he has long straight unkept hair, which cover both his ears and he has some bad outfits, which include sportcoats and hideous suit vests.
Q: The Winged Serpent was made in the early 80's, so the special effects are kind of cheesy. No, the serpent isn't scary, but it is basically the way L. Cohen shoots and directs the picture to make it worth watching.
I didn't find it as interesting as other Cohen movies, such as: "The Stuff" or the "It's Alive" trilogy. However, based on other reviews, most found Q to be one of Cohen's best pictures. I disagree; it just didn't do it for me as some of his other films.
I give it 4.5 out of 10
It's Alive
(1974)
John P. Ryan goes above and beyond acting capabilities
26 August 2004
It's Alive is one of those horror movies that deals with controversial subject matter. The director, Larry (Q:The Winged Serpent) Cohen, confronts the issues of new born babies and the polluted world we are living in.
As the movie starts off, we see that John P. (Deathwish IV: The Crackdown) Ryan is lying in bed alongside his wife. Moments later, John P.'s wife goes into labor and they race her off to the hospital.
Moving on, we see John P. attempts to enter the delivery room. This is brought on by the sound of a scream that he hears. As John P. strolls down the hallway, he soon observes several bloody nurses lying on the floor. Then, John P. enters the actual delivery room and he discovers only his wife to be alive and she is unsure on where her baby is.
To recapture, the entire nurse staff is murdered by this monstrosity of a child and thereafter the child is at large. The movie then goes into what the family has to deal with after facing this disappointment and the baby goes on a blood thirsty rampage.
Special effects are up to speed, courtesy of Rick (Ghostbusters) Baker. Not to mention, the brilliance of writer/director/producer Larry Cohen.
At this time I have yet to see the other two installments of this series. However, based upon my liking to the original, I am going to explore the other films. 7/10
As the movie starts off, we see that John P. (Deathwish IV: The Crackdown) Ryan is lying in bed alongside his wife. Moments later, John P.'s wife goes into labor and they race her off to the hospital.
Moving on, we see John P. attempts to enter the delivery room. This is brought on by the sound of a scream that he hears. As John P. strolls down the hallway, he soon observes several bloody nurses lying on the floor. Then, John P. enters the actual delivery room and he discovers only his wife to be alive and she is unsure on where her baby is.
To recapture, the entire nurse staff is murdered by this monstrosity of a child and thereafter the child is at large. The movie then goes into what the family has to deal with after facing this disappointment and the baby goes on a blood thirsty rampage.
Special effects are up to speed, courtesy of Rick (Ghostbusters) Baker. Not to mention, the brilliance of writer/director/producer Larry Cohen.
At this time I have yet to see the other two installments of this series. However, based upon my liking to the original, I am going to explore the other films. 7/10
The House on Sorority Row
(1982)
One of the better sorority slashers
12 August 2004
House on Sorority Row is not just some of the some ol', same ol' as we've seen before with sorority slasher movies.
The movie is based on a group of seven sorority sisters who are all just about to graduate college and they come up with the idea of throwing an illicit party at the sorority house. If the girls just could have gotten the blessing from their sorority mother, who is Mrs. Slater, this party would have worked out. Instead, Mrs. Slater won't allow any such party under her roof. Mrs. Slater wants the house to be vacant during that weekend- and you'll find out why later.
The girls decide to rebel against Mrs. Slater's wishes, particularly Vikki, who is played by Eileen Davidson. By doing so they all participate in a prank targeting Mrs. Slater. However, this prank takes a turn for the worst. Soon thereafter, these college babes come up missing. It then turns into a tale of whodunit. Solid direction, which is done with such finesse by Mark Rosman.
I liked the idea of the killer in this one, who uses a sharp cane for the weapon of choice. Some memorable death scenes are a decapitated head found in a toilet bowl and various stabbings with that cane that I had just mentioned.
There are plenty of genre flicks that deal with this same topic. Those that I am referring to are: PROM NIGHT, SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE, SORORITY HOUSE MASSACRE and THE INITIATION. The House On Sorority Row isn't anything groudbreaking, but it does still satisfy us bloodhounds out there. The script is original, the suspense scenes are built up with the proper tension and there is a satisfactory amount of blood; however there could of been more. In addition, I thought that the cast did a better then decent job on the acting duties.
The budget DVD is worth getting. The uncut version is now available for the first time in the U.S., which does include the extra cinema shots of Vikki getting stabbed to death. Previously, this was unattainable in the U.S.
I give it 7/10
The movie is based on a group of seven sorority sisters who are all just about to graduate college and they come up with the idea of throwing an illicit party at the sorority house. If the girls just could have gotten the blessing from their sorority mother, who is Mrs. Slater, this party would have worked out. Instead, Mrs. Slater won't allow any such party under her roof. Mrs. Slater wants the house to be vacant during that weekend- and you'll find out why later.
The girls decide to rebel against Mrs. Slater's wishes, particularly Vikki, who is played by Eileen Davidson. By doing so they all participate in a prank targeting Mrs. Slater. However, this prank takes a turn for the worst. Soon thereafter, these college babes come up missing. It then turns into a tale of whodunit. Solid direction, which is done with such finesse by Mark Rosman.
I liked the idea of the killer in this one, who uses a sharp cane for the weapon of choice. Some memorable death scenes are a decapitated head found in a toilet bowl and various stabbings with that cane that I had just mentioned.
There are plenty of genre flicks that deal with this same topic. Those that I am referring to are: PROM NIGHT, SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE, SORORITY HOUSE MASSACRE and THE INITIATION. The House On Sorority Row isn't anything groudbreaking, but it does still satisfy us bloodhounds out there. The script is original, the suspense scenes are built up with the proper tension and there is a satisfactory amount of blood; however there could of been more. In addition, I thought that the cast did a better then decent job on the acting duties.
The budget DVD is worth getting. The uncut version is now available for the first time in the U.S., which does include the extra cinema shots of Vikki getting stabbed to death. Previously, this was unattainable in the U.S.
I give it 7/10
Angela is still up to her old ways
11 August 2004
We're no longer going by the name of Camp Rolling Hills. All respect is to Angela (Pamela Springsteen) Baker. The camp is now titled Camp New Horizons.
This time, Angela changes here identity to a New York under privilege female by the name of Maria Nicastro. Angela soon dispatches Nicastro by way of a garbage truck and takes her identity, so that she can be a camper at Camp Rolling Hills aka Camp New Horizons. It's the same location, but it is yet under another name. This is due to the "MURDERS," as Lily, the camp co-owner would put it.
Married couple Lily and Herman, who is played by Micheal J. Pollard, are the camp owners and they make a desperate move to try and bring some inner city under privilege teens together for an experience in sharing.
It probably would have worked, except for the fact that the real Maria Nicastro won't be showing up. Instead, Angela Baker returns for yet another bloodbath of slaying.
This one has the same campy humor, creative deaths and beautiful babes, one which would include Jill (Night of the Demons) Terashita. Again, I'm not sure whether I like this one more of SC2 more. Nonetheless, check out this sleeper of a slasher flick. 10/10
This time, Angela changes here identity to a New York under privilege female by the name of Maria Nicastro. Angela soon dispatches Nicastro by way of a garbage truck and takes her identity, so that she can be a camper at Camp Rolling Hills aka Camp New Horizons. It's the same location, but it is yet under another name. This is due to the "MURDERS," as Lily, the camp co-owner would put it.
Married couple Lily and Herman, who is played by Micheal J. Pollard, are the camp owners and they make a desperate move to try and bring some inner city under privilege teens together for an experience in sharing.
It probably would have worked, except for the fact that the real Maria Nicastro won't be showing up. Instead, Angela Baker returns for yet another bloodbath of slaying.
This one has the same campy humor, creative deaths and beautiful babes, one which would include Jill (Night of the Demons) Terashita. Again, I'm not sure whether I like this one more of SC2 more. Nonetheless, check out this sleeper of a slasher flick. 10/10
Goodnight Campers
11 August 2004
Sleepaway Camp II totally took a turn for the better in respect to the original Sleepaway Camp movie. SC1, which was made several years earlier, has a different feeling to it. It was written and directed by Robert Hiltzik, who has no affiliation to either SC2 or SC3. I think that SC1 tries to come across as a more serious horror film. SC2 and SC3 both have some real good campy humor, which is an asset to these films.
With that said, this installment takes place at Camp Rolling Hills, which was formerly known as Camp Arowak. There, at Camp Arowak, was the location to which several grisly murders took place. Now, Angela returns in SC2 with a vengeance, as well as a sex change.
Soon enough she gets back to her old ways of murder. Only this time she is a camp counselor. Pamela (yes the Boss' sister) Springsteen stars as Angela Baker. Not to mention, Renee (Emilo's sister) Estevez co-stars as the protagonist.
This, along with SC3 are some of my all time favorite horror pictures. I just adore the crafty deaths and the humor that all make up for a great cult series. The soundtrack featuring Obsession is also all worth the while. I'm torn in two on whether I like SC2 better or SC3 better. However, if you haven't seen either, then start off with SC2.
I also recommend you check out Child's Play, Friday the 13th, Halloween, Night of the Demons, Silent Night Deadly Night, The Hills have Eyes, Leatherface: Texas Chainsaw Massacre III 10/10
With that said, this installment takes place at Camp Rolling Hills, which was formerly known as Camp Arowak. There, at Camp Arowak, was the location to which several grisly murders took place. Now, Angela returns in SC2 with a vengeance, as well as a sex change.
Soon enough she gets back to her old ways of murder. Only this time she is a camp counselor. Pamela (yes the Boss' sister) Springsteen stars as Angela Baker. Not to mention, Renee (Emilo's sister) Estevez co-stars as the protagonist.
This, along with SC3 are some of my all time favorite horror pictures. I just adore the crafty deaths and the humor that all make up for a great cult series. The soundtrack featuring Obsession is also all worth the while. I'm torn in two on whether I like SC2 better or SC3 better. However, if you haven't seen either, then start off with SC2.
I also recommend you check out Child's Play, Friday the 13th, Halloween, Night of the Demons, Silent Night Deadly Night, The Hills have Eyes, Leatherface: Texas Chainsaw Massacre III 10/10
Evil Laugh
(1986)
Doctor, please prescribe nitrous-oxide
11 August 2004
A group of medical students escape away to a run down house for the weekend. What they are unaware of is that Martin is there to join them in the celebration.
This slasher flick is nothing out of the ordinary. The title of the film is implied by can you guess? Yes, a laugh, and it's a rather humorous one if anything. Maybe Larry (Dr. Giggles) Drake took some notes on this one.
There is nothing really special here. Oh wait, ya, Martin did use a microwave to cash in one of the house guests, that was rather interesting to see.
I wouldn't praise this picture, but I also wouldn't totally bash it. There are plenty of other better slasher flicks out there, but this one does stand out on its own.
Only recommended if you can deal with 80's cheese. 6/10
This slasher flick is nothing out of the ordinary. The title of the film is implied by can you guess? Yes, a laugh, and it's a rather humorous one if anything. Maybe Larry (Dr. Giggles) Drake took some notes on this one.
There is nothing really special here. Oh wait, ya, Martin did use a microwave to cash in one of the house guests, that was rather interesting to see.
I wouldn't praise this picture, but I also wouldn't totally bash it. There are plenty of other better slasher flicks out there, but this one does stand out on its own.
Only recommended if you can deal with 80's cheese. 6/10
Toolbox Murders
(2004)
Craftsman
8 August 2004
I recently saw this remake last weekend in LA, during which it was being shown on a limited sneak peak basis. Apparently, it's still in limbo on weather to go as a theatrical release or direct to video.
What I got was a well crafted horror remake that drifted away from the original. Yes, it's a remake, but Tobe (Texas Chainsaw Massacre 1&2) Hooper makes this picture all worth while. As we address the title of the film, all is implied with a hammer, a vice, a nail gun and a drill. Those tools are to just name a select few. The story takes place in LA, where a young couple move into an old run down apartment complex that is also rented out to tenants that are wannabe actors and sleeze bag drug users. One by one, they fall victim to our Toolbox Murderer.
It's not my favorite Hooper film, but it's a lot better compared to "Crocodile" and "The Mangler." I particularly am pleased with the gory death scenes, as well as the style of Hooper's directing. That apartment complex that was used was just awesome. Overall this slasher flick delivered in such a way that I'd like purchase it for my horror collection.
8/10 Way to go Tobe!!
What I got was a well crafted horror remake that drifted away from the original. Yes, it's a remake, but Tobe (Texas Chainsaw Massacre 1&2) Hooper makes this picture all worth while. As we address the title of the film, all is implied with a hammer, a vice, a nail gun and a drill. Those tools are to just name a select few. The story takes place in LA, where a young couple move into an old run down apartment complex that is also rented out to tenants that are wannabe actors and sleeze bag drug users. One by one, they fall victim to our Toolbox Murderer.
It's not my favorite Hooper film, but it's a lot better compared to "Crocodile" and "The Mangler." I particularly am pleased with the gory death scenes, as well as the style of Hooper's directing. That apartment complex that was used was just awesome. Overall this slasher flick delivered in such a way that I'd like purchase it for my horror collection.
8/10 Way to go Tobe!!
Slugs
(1988)
Slime buckets of fun
8 August 2004
First off, don't take this film serious. One who is not open minded to 80's cheesy B movies should just flat out stay away from this picture.
We're dealing with SLUGS here. These insects are a a mutated form of a killer SLUG that dwell in the city sewer system. Surely enough, they come up for some air and feast on human flesh. There are thousands of these form of SLUGS and it's up to one man to put an end to this disaster. He is none other than Mike Brady. Mike Brady is a city employee that discovers the SLUGS and he makes every effort trying to put an end to this catastrophe. At first, no one believes Mike. The city towns people pay no attention to Mike's warning. The councils main concern is getting Mike to shut up, so that they can put in a new shopping mall, which happens to be directly above where the SLUGS are spawning. Any common minded man would have given this plan some serious thought while being faced with the the adversity of a form of mutated killer SLUG. By no means is this movie a masterpiece, but for some reason this movie seems to work. I own the DVD and it's not all that great. Don't get me wrong, the anamorphic picture transfer is great, but it seems as though the voices are dubbed. Like I said, you really have to be in the right mood to be ready for an insect movie like this one. Give it a shot if you're up for the challenge. 5/10
We're dealing with SLUGS here. These insects are a a mutated form of a killer SLUG that dwell in the city sewer system. Surely enough, they come up for some air and feast on human flesh. There are thousands of these form of SLUGS and it's up to one man to put an end to this disaster. He is none other than Mike Brady. Mike Brady is a city employee that discovers the SLUGS and he makes every effort trying to put an end to this catastrophe. At first, no one believes Mike. The city towns people pay no attention to Mike's warning. The councils main concern is getting Mike to shut up, so that they can put in a new shopping mall, which happens to be directly above where the SLUGS are spawning. Any common minded man would have given this plan some serious thought while being faced with the the adversity of a form of mutated killer SLUG. By no means is this movie a masterpiece, but for some reason this movie seems to work. I own the DVD and it's not all that great. Don't get me wrong, the anamorphic picture transfer is great, but it seems as though the voices are dubbed. Like I said, you really have to be in the right mood to be ready for an insect movie like this one. Give it a shot if you're up for the challenge. 5/10
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