Links www.youtube.com/mrparka https://www.instagram.com/mrparka/ https://twitter.com/mrparka00 http://www.screamingtoilet.com/dvd--blu-ray https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://www.facebook.com/mrparka http://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/ https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934?mt=2 https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://letterboxd.com/mrparka/ https://www.patreon.com/mrparka Time Stamps A slight warning – -0:13 “FM” Review– 1:22 “The 27 Club” Review – 7:17 “Scary Stories” Review –11:41 “Spunk’s Not Dead” Review – 16:36 “Henchman: The Al Leong Story” Review – 20:53 Patreon Pick “High Life” Review – 27:04 “The Osterman Weekend” RIP Rutger Review – 34:12 The Weekly Western “Django the Bastard” Review – 45:29 “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” Discussion and MrParka Meltdown – 54:56 Hammer Time Episode 12 “Kiss of the Vampire” w Jeremy Review – 1:22:05 Questions – 1:35:48 Answers “Who are some of your favorite character actors?” – 1:39:40 Answers “Which defunct DVD/Blu-Ray company do you miss most?” – 1:43:44 Shout Out– 1:44:11 Update – 1:45:05 Wat-Zee Podcast – https://www.horrorphilia.com/the-wat-zee-party-horror-show/ Pure Cinema Podcast – https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/now-playing-network/pure-cinema-podcast Video Reviews"FM" Blu-Ray Review (Arrow Video)![]() The airwaves crackle with the delectable sound of smooth rock in FM, a riotous comedy about the heady world of late-70s US radio. Michael Brandon (Four Flies on Grey Velvet) stars as Jeff Dugan, the ultra-cool program director at Q-SKY Radio, LA's number one rock station. Dugan encourages a free-wheeling culture at work, employing an array of eccentric DJ personalities: Mother (Eileen Brennan, Private Benjamin), a husky, world-weary ex-hippie; Eric Swan (Martin Mull, Clue), a mad-cap romantic looking for love, and The Prince of Darkness (Cleavon Little, Blazing Saddles), a cool cat who keeps the night-time airwaves alive. But when the station's future is thrown in to jeopardy by corporate bosses looking to cash-in, the Q-SKY troupe are forced to batten down the hatches and turn up the volume - will a fully-fledged rock 'n' roll rebellion save the day? Legendary cinematographer John A. Alonzo (Chinatown, Scarface) directs this slickly-produced rock film, which combines hilarious studio hijinks with epic footage of Linda Ronstadt and Jimmy Buffett in concert. FM also boasts an incredible platinum-selling soundtrack featuring a pantheon of AOR greats including Steely Dan, The Doobie Brothers, Eagles and Tom Petty (who also cameos). Now, High Fidelity meets High Definition as FM debuts on blu-ray with a selection of exciting new extras. Bonus Materials High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation transferred from original film elements Uncompressed stereo 2.0 PCM audio soundtrack Mono 1.0 music and effects track Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing No Static at All, a newly filmed interview with Michael Brandon, the star of FM Radio Chaos, a newly filmed interview with Ezra Sacks, the writer of FM The Spirit of Radio, a newly filmed video appreciation of the era of FM radio and the FM soundtrack by the film and music critic Glenn Kenny Extensive gallery of original stills, promotional images and soundtrack sleeves Original trailers • Reversible sleeve featuring two original artwork options FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film by writer and critic Paul Corupe Arrow Video – https://www.arrowvideo.com/ “FM” Blu-Ray – https://mvdshop.com/products/fm-blu-ray "The 27 Club" Blu-Ray/DVD/CD Combo Review![]() Pay the Toll... Sell Your Soul... Be Careful What You Wish For. Why did Brian Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, and Kurt Kobain all die at the age of 27? When an aspiring singer and a journalism student seek answers to the notorious curse of the so-called "27 Club," they find themselves trapped in an evil underworld that takes artists souls as payment for eternal fame. Features legendary singer, songwriter, and record producer, Todd Rundgren. Bonus Materials Gorgeous 3 Disc Digi-pack exclusive edition with BLU RAY, DVD,and audio CD Soundtrack! “The 27 Club” Blu-Ray – https://mvdshop.com/products/27-club-the-blu-ray-dvd "Scary Stories" DVD Review (Wild Eye Releasing)![]() The Story Of The Books That Frightened A Generation. Explore the history of one of the most controversial works of modern children's literature: The best selling teen classic Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, which scared a generation of readers and became of of the most banned books of modern times. Includes the author's family, scholars, folklorists, artists, fans, and children's book authors such as R.L. Stine, Q.L. Pearce, and more. Bonus Materials Director's Commentary Over 20 minutes of bonus footage Closed Captions Scene Selection Trailers “Scary Stories” DVD – https://mvdshop.com/products/scary-stories-dvd "Spunk's Not Dead" DVD Review![]() A new drug is taking over the streets, coating them in blood, vomit, and other less savory fluids. The six eye-opening stories in this anthology reveal the truth about this new white menace. “Spunk’s Not Dead” DVD – https://www.amazon.com/Spunks-Not-Dead-Quinn-Allan/dp/B07M6RT3G4 "Henchman: The Al Leong Story" Online Screener Review![]() This documentary explores the life of one of Hollywood's most recognizable faces from 80's action films. In addition to being the greatest cinematic henchman, Al Leong is also a martial arts champion, stuntman, biker, cancer survivor, and much more. From Die Hard and Lethal Weapon to Big Trouble in Little China and Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, follow the career of Al Leong with vintage footage, film clips and candid interviews from the likes of John Carpenter, Jeff Imada, Craig Baxley and more. “Henchman: The Al Leong Story” DVD – https://www.amazon.com/Henchman-Al-Leong-Story-Unrated/dp/B07TMRS26B/ "High Life" Streaming Review (VUDU)![]() Plot Description: Monte (Robert Pattinson) and his baby daughter are the last survivors of a damned and dangerous mission to the outer reaches of the solar system. They rely on each other to survive as they hurtle toward the oblivion of a black hole. “High Life” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/High-Life-Blu-ray-Robert-Pattinson/dp/B07RTG9PHG/ "The Osterman Weekend" DVD Review (Anchor Bay)![]() The Final Film by Director Sam Peckinpah from the #1 Best-Seller by Robert Ludlum What would you do if a total stranger proved to you that your three closest friends are enemy agents? For investigative TV host John Tanner (Rutger Hauer), the news comes on the eve of a reunion weekend and his home where the traitors (Craig T. Nelson, Dennis Hopper and Chris Sarandon) are all placed under intense surveillance by a mysterious CIA operative (John Hurt). But as the get-together turns deadly, are Tanner and his family being set up for the most shocking betrayal of all? From its stinging look at media manipulation to its stunning final twist, the ultimate conspiracy will be uncovered by whoever survives The Osterman Weekend. Burt Lancaster, Helen Shaver and Meg Foster co-star in this action-packed suspense thriller from legendary director Sam Peckinpah (The Wild Bunch, Straw Dogs) adapted from the best-selling novel by Robert Ludlum (The Bourne Identity) . Anchor Bay is proud to present this commemorative two-disc set loaded with unprecedented Extras - including Peckinpah's never-before seen full-length rough cut - for a startling new look at the final film from the still-controversial movie maverick known as "Bloody Sam". Features Audio Commentary By Sam Peckinpah Historians Paul Seydor, Garner Simmons, David Weddle and Nick Redman Alpha To Omega-An All New 78 Minute Documentary Sam's First Cut-Never Before Seen Full Length Screening Version Theatrical Trailer Still Gallery Talent Bios “The Osterman Weekend” 2 Disc DVD – https://www.amazon.com/Osterman-Weekend-Two-Disc-Rutger-Hauer/dp/B00012FX4K/ The Weekly Western "Django the Bastard" Blu-Ray Review (Synapse Films)![]() Written by MrParka Synapse Films brings one of the many unauthorized sequels to “Django” to Blu-Ray. “Django the Bastard” looks and sounds great and includes a commentary with film historian Troy Howarth. A mysterious man by the name of Django comes into town with a vendetta. Quickly, Django enacts revenge by killing some prominent town’s folk. The last on his list is a corrupt business man who runs the town with his insane brother and a posse of hired guns. An evitable showdown takes place. “Django the Bastard” is far from breaking any new ground; it’s fairly typical in its story. Often spaghetti westerns feature a mysterious man in black who holds a secret past and prefers to use his gun rather than his mouth. That said, it doesn’t negate that “Django the Bastard” does have some style and good film making. The framing is top notch when setting up the action, becoming a game trying to stop Django in the scene before he kills a group of baddies; often times hidden in plain sight. At times Django is caught in reflections or hidden in shadows; these little touches of mystery are the main contributor to the well-crafted action scenes and add a layer of playfulness. Every spaghetti western hero needs a couple tricks or gimmicks up his sleeve and Django is no different. The most memorable is the chiseled crosses he brings with him; the crosses branded with the name of his victim and the day they will die. Of course it is today’s date. The head games by the spectral like Django make him seem almost supernatural, similar to the vengeful Stranger in the Clint Eastwood outing “High Plains Drifter”. The film’s main downfall is the lead, Anthony Steffen isn’t exactly brimming with charisma and his eyes often look dead and hollow. Although one may enjoy that look for a killer with a vendetta, it plays as more of a soulless performance than one with much value. The show stealer is of course Luciano Rossi who made a career out of playing unstable characters; here he plays a lunatic who gets the best of Django on a couple occasions. The film has plenty of action; there are no shortages of dead bodies and gunplay. If one is into the spaghetti western or revenge genre, this pulpy little flick will keep you in your seat for the duration. All and all “Django the Bastard” is a solid release from Synapse. Lite on the features, but sports a good presentation, the Troy Howarth commentary is filled to the brim with information about the cast, crew, and other films of the same vein Plot Summary: Synapse Films presents Django the Bastard - A classic "spaghetti western" remastered for the first time ever in high-definition! Anthony Steffen (THE NIGHT EVELYN CAME OUT OF THE GRAVE, KILLER FISH) stars as the mysterious stranger named Django, a ghost-like figure who walks into a dusty western town with vengeance on his mind. As he finds the men he’s looking for, he places a cross with the person's name and death date in the middle of the street before enacting violent revenge! Is Django truly an unstoppable human army-of-one, or an avenging immortal angel of death? An intriguing spaghetti western with gothic horror genre elements, DJANGO THE BASTARD bears striking similarities to Clint Eastwood's film HIGH PLAINS DRIFTER, released four years later. This version of DJANGO THE BASTARD is the alternate English language U.S. version titled THE STRANGERS GUNDOWN, remastered in high-definition widescreen from a beautiful original 35mm negative element. Special Features: - Audio Commentary with Film Historian and Author, Troy Howarth. Synapse Films – https://synapse-films.com/ “Django the Bastard” Blu-Ray – https://synapse-films.com/synapse-films/django-the-bastard-blu-ray/ "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" Theater Review![]() Plot Outline Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood visits 1969 Los Angeles, where everything is changing, as TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) make their way around an industry they hardly recognize anymore. The ninth film from the writer-director features a large ensemble cast and multiple storylines in a tribute to the final moments of Hollywood’s golden age. “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/OnceInHollywood/ Pure Cinema Podcast – https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/now-playing-network/pure-cinema-podcast Pure Cinema Podcast w Quentin Tarantino – https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/now-playing-network/pure-cinema-podcast/e/62345751 Hammer Time Episode 12 "Kiss of the Vampire" Blu-Ray Review![]() SHOCKING! - HORRIFYING! - MACABRE! Honeymooning in Bavaria, the young couple become stranded and are forced to stay the night in the area. Doctor Ravna, owner of the impressive chateau that sits imposingly above the village, invites them to dinner that evening. Their association with Ravna and his charming, beautiful family is to prove disastrous as they become unwittingly embroiled with this family of vampires who seek to initiate them into their diabolical creed. Hammer Horror Universal Blu-Ray Set – https://www.amazon.com/Hammer-Horror-8-Film-Collection-Blu-ray/dp/B01I048O8W Ask a Question/Answer a QuestionFavorite defunct Blu-Ray or DVD label? Podcast Version![]() https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934? https://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/e/mrparka-s-weekly-reviews-episode-116-audio-version/ Shout Out![]() From Horrorphilia The Wat-Zee Party Horror Show, where we’re fighting the good fight for the horror nation! Listen as hosts Mister Watson & Dave Zee conduct their 3-Act podcast! Subscribe in Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wat-zee-party-horror-show-horrorphilia/id1466581863 Wat-Zee Podcast – https://www.horrorphilia.com/the-wat-zee-party-horror-show/ UpdateUpdate Blu-Ray 1. The Mummy’s Revenge 2. Wild Rovers 3. Papillion 4. The Blue Knight 5. The Deadly Tracks 6. Cleopatra Jones 7. Ragmork 8. The Annihilators 9. The Brink’s Job 10. Lost Highway 11. Mississippi Burning 12. The Border 13. The Silent Partner 14. Black Moon Rising 15. The Nightcomers 16. Incident in a Ghostland 17. Heathers 18. The Train 19. Hounds of Love Film NotesFM – 1978 – John A. Alonzo
The 27th Club – 2019 – Patrick Fogarty Scary Stories – 2018 – Cody Meirick Spunk’s Not Dead – 2019 – Zach Carter/Jeremy Garner/Bryan Hiltner/Steven K. Jackley/Christopher Jayawardena/Calvin Morie McCarthy Henchman: The Al Leong Story – 2018 – Vito Trabucco High Life – 2018 – Claire Denis The Osterman Weekend – 1983 – Sam Peckinpah Django the Bastard – 1969 – Sergio Garrone Once Upon a Time in Hollywood – 2019 – Quentin Tarantino Kiss of the Vampire – 1963 – Don Sharp
5 Comments
Links www.youtube.com/mrparka https://www.instagram.com/mrparka/ https://twitter.com/mrparka00 http://www.screamingtoilet.com/dvd--blu-ray https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://www.facebook.com/mrparka http://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/ https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934?mt=2 https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://letterboxd.com/mrparka/ https://www.patreon.com/mrparka Time Stamps Corrections – -0:11 “Weird Science” Review– 0:20 “The Running Man” Review – 9:06 “The House” Review –16:36 “Last Rites of the Dead” Review – 21:12 “The Children” Review – 29:49 “Hellmaster” Review – 35:14 “The Dead Pit” Review – 43:11 “Slaughterhouse Rock” Review – 49:47 Patreon Pick “Judy” Review – 55:49 The Weekly Western “White Buffalo” Review – 1:01:36 Hammer Time Episode 10(“The Damned”) Review W Jeremy – 1:10:27 Questions – 1:34:10 Answers “What is a Criterion must buy?” – 1:35:53 Question of the Week “Who are some of your favorite character actors?”– 1:39:31 Update – 1:39:36 Video Review"Weird Science" Blu-Ray Review (Arrow Video)![]() THEY WENT FROM ZEROES TO HEROES IN ONE FANTASTIC WEEKEND. If you can't get a date... make one! After proving himself the king of heartfelt teen flicks with Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club, writer-director John Hughes infused the genre with a hefty dose of wacked-out sci-fi comedy in Weird Science, a film where every teenage boy's wildest fantasies come to life. Perenially picked-on high school nerds Gary (Anthony Michael Hall, Sixteen Candles) and Wyatt (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) are sick of their status at the bottom of the social food chain. Using Wyatt's computer, the two hatch a plan to create their dream woman - and following a massive power surge, that woman unexpectedly appears in the form of Lisa (Kelly LeBrock). Gorgeous, intelligent, and blessed with limitless magic powers, Lisa makes the boys' dreams come true... but what about Wyatt's gun-toting psycho older brother Chet (Bill Paxton), and the two bullies (Robert Downey Jr and Vamp's Robert Rusler) determined to put them back in their place? Inspired by EC Comics and boosted by a killer soundtrack (including the classic title theme by Oingo Boingo), Weird Science has never looked better than in this new special edition, including an exclusive extended version of the film featuring deleted scenes never released on home video before. Bonus Materials New restoration by Arrow Films from a 4K scan of the original negative High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentation of the original Theatrical Version of the film (94 mins), plus seamlessly-branched exclusive Extended Version (97 mins), featuring two additional scenes newly remastered in high-definition Original lossless stereo audio, plus 5.1 DTS-HD MA surround option (theatrical version only) Original English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing • Edited-for-TV version of the film (SD only, 95 mins), plus comparison featurette highlighting the alternate dubs and takes Option to watch additional scenes from the Extended Version separately Newly-filmed interview with special makeup creator Craig Reardon • Newly-filmed interview with composer Ira Newborn Newly-filmed interview with supporting actor John Kapelos • All-new interview with casting director Jackie Burch It’s Alive: Resurrecting Weird Science, an archive documentary featuring interviews with cast, crew and admirers, including star Anthony Michael Hall Theatrical trailers and TV spots Image gallery Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tracie Ching FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated collectors’ booklet featuring new writing on the film by Alexandra Heller-Nicholas and Amanda Reyes Arrow Video – https://www.arrowvideo.com/ “Weird Science” Blu-Ray – https://mvdshop.com/products/weird-science-blu-ray "The Running Man" Blu-Ray Review (Arrow Academy)![]() Over a decade after re-defining the thriller with The Third Man, director Carol Reed returned to the genre with The Running Man. Reuniting with that film's cinematographer Robert Krasker (BAFTA-nominated for his work here), Reed goes in the opposite direction visually, framing the twisty plot in sun-kissed widescreen color. Rex Black (Laurence Harvey, Walk On The Wild Side) has successfully faked his death in a plane crash and escaped to sunny Málaga under a new identity, waiting for his wife Stella (Lee Remick, Anatomy Of A Murder) to arrive with £50,000 of life insurance money. It's the start of a blissful, trouble-free new life for the couple - until Stephen (Alan Bates, Gosford Park), the insurance agent in charge of investigating Rex's death, suddenly arrives in town. Is he just holidaying in Spain, as he claims, or is he on assignment to foil Rex's scheme? Adapted by John Mortimer (later the creator of Rumpole of the Bailey) from the novel The Ballad of the Running Man by Shelley Smith, this underappreciated entry in Reed's celebrated oeuvre makes its official worldwide home video premiere, complete with insightful new bonus features. Bonus Materials 2K restoration of the film by Sony Pictures High Definition (1080p) Blu-Ray presentation Original uncompressed mono audio Isolated music and effects track Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing Audio commentary by Peter William Evans, author of British Film-Makers: Carol Reed On The Trail Of The Running Man, all-new featurette with crew members such as script supervisor Angela Allen and assistant director Kits Browning Lee Remick at the National Film Theatre, an audio-only recording of the actor's appearance at the NFT in 1970 Image gallery Reversible sleeve featuring original artwork FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film by Barry Forshaw Arrow Video – https://www.arrowvideo.com/ “The Running Man” Blu-Ray – https://mvdshop.com/products/the-running-man-blu-ray "The House" DVD Review (Artsploitation Films)![]() Nazi soldiers stranded in the snow with a Norwegian POW seek shelter inside a mysterious house haunted by a cursed Arthouse meets Horror meets Nazis in this creepy Norwegian ghost tale. Set in the Second World War, two German soldiers are escorting a Norwegian soldier and prisoner of war but the Scandinavian winter takes quite a toll on them. Nearly frozen, Nazi officer Kreiner and German soldier Fleiss discover an empty house near the forest where they finally can get some rest. However, what seems to be a warm and welcoming shelter turns much more sinister and deadly. They begin to wonder if they have somehow have stepped into a sort of psychological Hell from which there may be no escape. Special Features: Interview with Director Artsploitation Films – http://www.artsploitationfilms.com/ “The House” DVD – https://mvdshop.com/products/house-the-dvd "Last Rites of the Dead" DVD Review![]() Dead Lives Matter Angela has been shot point blank by her boyfriend and lives in a world where the living and dead co exist. Zombie Anonymous meetings, look alive face creams and all meat diners help them cope in this bizarre society. Last Rites of the Dead takes you on a weird ride where life meets death, or does it? Bonus Materials Includes an Interactive Motion Menu Bonus Feature 'Don't Feed the Trolls' Theatrical Trailer R-Rated Trailer “Last Rites of the Dead” DVD – https://mvdshop.com/products/last-rites-of-the-dead-dvd "The Children" DVD/Blu-Ray Combo Review (Vinegar Syndrome)![]() Details This listing is for the standard edition Blu-ray/DVD combo. The limited edition slipcover was limited to 3,000 units and is sold out. The two versions are identical, aside from the slipcover. Something is terrifyingly wrong with the children of Ravenback. After their school bus passes through a mysterious cloud of yellow smoke, the children are are transformed into bloodthirsty zombies with black fingernails which burn anything they touch. As parents and unwitting townspeople are burned to a crisp, the local police force frantically searches for the missing kids, unaware of their new and deadly powers... Shot back to back with FRIDAY THE 13TH, and sharing some of the same crew, Max Kalmanowicz's THE CHILDREN is an outrageous and fun drive-in horror classic. Featuring an eerie score from Harry Manfredini (FRIDAY THE 13TH) and produced by Carlton Albright (LUTHER THE GEEK), Vinegar Syndrome brings THE CHILDREN to Blu-ray, newly restored from the best surviving film elements and in its extended director's cut! Directed by: Max Kalmanowicz Cast: Martin Shakar, Gil Rogers, Gale Garnett, Shannon Bolin, Tracy Griswold, Edward Terry 1980 / 93 minutes / Color / 1.85:1 OAR Region free Blu-ray/DVD combo Newly scanned & restored in 2k from a combination of its 35mm original camera negative and best surviving 35mm theatrical prints. New audio commentary with director Max Kalmanowicz Archival audio commentary with producer/co-writer Carlton J. Albright "Childhood Memories: Making the Children" - a new interview with Carlton J. Albright & production manager David Platt "Return to Ravensback" - a newly produced locations then-and-now featurette "The Lost Scene" - audio from a lost scene of The Children Archival video interview with Carlton J. Albright "Memories of The Children" - archival featurette with: Carlton J. Albright, Patricia Albright & Gil Rogers "Making The Children" - archival featurette with: Carlton J. Albright & David Platt "The Children: The Musical" - archival interview with Stan Richardson, co-creator of the musical rendition of The Children Reversible cover artwork English SDH subtitles Vinegar Syndrome – https://vinegarsyndrome.com/ “The Children” DVD/Blu-Ray Combo – https://vinegarsyndrome.com/products/the-children "Hellmaster" DVD/Blu-Ray Combo Review (Vinegar Syndrome)![]() Details This special limited edition embossed J-symbol die-cut slipcover (designed by Chris Garofalo) is limited to 2,000 units and is only available here at VinegarSyndrome.com! Decades ago, deranged Professor Jones (John Saxon) concocted a diabolical drug at a rural college called 'The Nietzsche Experiment,' designed to give its users telepathic abilities, but instead turned anyone who took it into violent lunatics. Now, 20 years later, Jones has returned to resume his experiments and avenge himself against those he feels wronged him and his work. Armed with a group of hideously deformed mutant slaves, it's not long before the tranquil college becomes host to vicious violence and carnage. A Detroit shot regional horror movie made at the decline of the direct-to-video era, HELLMASTER was the first feature from cult filmmaker Douglas Schulze (Dark Fields) and co-stars David Emge (Dawn of the Dead). Combining gothic horror and creature-filled narrative trappings with intensely colorful and Argento inspired visuals, courtesy of acclaimed cinematographer Michael Goi (American Horror Story), HELLMASTER was originally titled THEM, but was subsequently re-edited with new footage also added and released straight to video and cable several years after its initial completion. Vinegar Syndrome presents this fascinating slice of creature horror in its original theatrical THEM version for the first time on home video, along with its more commonly seen HELLMASTER recut, newly restored in 4k from its 35mm original negative under supervision from cinematographer Michael Goi. al sleeper to Blu-ray, newly restored in 2k from its original 35mm interpositive. Directed by: Douglas Schulze Starring: John Saxon, David Emge, Amy Raasch, Edward Stevens, Robert Dole 1992 / 96 min / 1.85:1 • Region Free Blu-ray/DVD combo • Newly scanned & restored in 4k from its 35mm original negative • Original Theatrical Version (as "THEM") • Director's recut version (as "HELLMASTER") (SD) • Director commentary for both versions • “Creating Reality” - an interview with cinematographer Michael Goi • Conceptual artwork gallery • Behind-the-scenes stills gallery • Archival locations featurette • Reversible cover artwork • English SDH subtitles Vinegar Syndrome – https://vinegarsyndrome.com/ “Hellmaster” DVD/Blu-Ray Combo – https://vinegarsyndrome.com/collections/vinegar-syndrome/products/hellmaster "The Dead Pit" Blu-Ray Review (Code Red) ![]() A renegade doctor is shot dead and entombed with his fiendish experiments in the basement of an abandoned wing of a mental hospital. Twenty years later, a mysterious woman is admitted with amnesia, and her arrival is marked by an earthquake - which cracks the seal to the Dead Pit, freeing the evil doctor to continue his work. Dark Force Video – https://darkforcesuperstore.com/shop-all/ “The Dead Pit” Blu-Ray – https://darkforcesuperstore.com/dead-pit-collectors-edition-blu-ray-dark-force-code-red/ "Slaughterhouse Rock" Blu-Ray Review (Code Red)![]() The music is the madness! For 39 years, Alcatraz held society's most depraved killers. Now it's home to something even worse ... Get ready from some heavy metal rock'n'roll horror! A man visits Alcatraz prison after having dreams about all the people who died there. When he gets to the prison, his brother is possessed by an evil cannibal demon. The ghost of a female heavy metal singer (Toni Basil, singer of the #1 hit 'Mickey') who was killed there tries to help the man fight the monster. Also starring Playboy Playmates Hope Marie Carlton and Donna Denton, with music by the great punk band DEVO. Starring Nicholas Celozzi, Tom Reilly, Donna Denton, Hope Marie Carlton, Tamara Hyler, Steven Brian Smith, Ty Miller Special Features: Brand new 2K scan of the original negatives, Interview with DEVO frontman Mark Mothersbaugh, Interview with DP Nicholas Von Sternberg, Original Trailer Code Red // 1987 // 90 Minutes // Rated R // Color // English // All Region “Slaughterhouse Rock” Blu-Ray – https://roninflix.com/products/slaughterhouse-rock Patreon Pick "Judy" DVD Review (Necrostorm)![]() PLOT SUMMARY Mary’s mistake was to ignore a group of performance artists (The Crows) in the street. The Crows soon find a way to capture her attention: bringing their next performance to Mary’s home. Tormented and alone, Mary quickly learns that The Crows’ art is crafted in blood and terror. SYNOPSIS Bad things happen to bad people. That's what Ursula, the ring leader of a deranged group of street performers called “The Crows”, always says. For no apparent reason, the gang starts to torment Mary and Judy: a young car driver and her dog. Her only crime was not paying attention to the annoying street performers. For Mary, the curtains of the most insane and dangerous show will rise... and fall. The crows' show is not just about blood. We proudly assure you il will be the scariest, most unconfortable and grotesque performance you will ever see Collector's Edition Only EXTRAS: + Soundtrack + Director's Commentary + Trailer + Animated Menu Necrostorm – http://necrostorm.com/home.html “Judy” DVD or Blu-Ray – http://necrostorm.com/Movies/Judy/Buy.html The Weekly Western "White Buffalo" Blu-Ray Review (Kino Lorber)![]() Description: Two of the Western's most legendary figures search for the demon buffalo that haunts them both! They called him Wild Bill Hickok (Charles Bronson, Breakheart Pass), the prince of pistoleers, a frontier adventurer and killer of men; now, in his last years, he has been an old gunfighter plagued by fears and driven by a need to make peace with himself. The White Buffalo is his constant nightmare; he must find the fabled beast and destroy it; before it destroys him. He was Crazy Horse (Will Sampson, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest), the greatest of all Sioux chiefs. A warrior of dignity and pride - now a father who searches for the legendary albino buffalo so that the spirit of his dead child can go to heaven and he will stop at nothing to obtain the sacred white pelt. J. Lee Thompson (The Guns of Navarone) directs this one-of-a-kind western that features a brilliant cast the includes Jack Warden (Billy Two Hats), Kim Novak (Picnic), Stuart Whitman (Shadows in an Empty Room), Slim Pickens (Blazing Saddles), John Carradine (The Sentinel) and western legend, Clint Walker (More Dead Than Alive). Blu-ray Extras Include: Original Theatrical Trailer Kino Lorber – https://www.kinolorber.com/ “White Buffalo” Blu-Ray – https://www.kinolorber.com/product/white-buffalo-blu-ray Hammer Time Episode #11 "The Damned" DVD Review![]() Product Description In England, a young American falls in love with the sister of a sadistic and lecherous motorcycle gang leader who despises the American. The couple takes refuge from the gang leader's harassment in a cave where they discover a group of children, who are the result of an experiment by a scientist seeking to develop a race of humans capable of surviving an atomic blast. Special Features Booklet “The Damned” DVD Import – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Damned-DVD-Oliver-Reed/dp/B002ZV8SDI/ Ask a Question/Answer a QuestionWho are some of your favorite character actors? Podcast Version![]() https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934? https://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/e/mrparka-s-weekly-reviews-episode-115-audio-version/ UpdateBlu-Ray 1. Evil Dead Remake Unrated and Theatrical 2. Strays 3. Play Dead 4. The Pink Ladies 5. Mascara 6. Funny Games 7. Pan’s Labyrinth 8. Female Trouble 9. Multiple Maniacs Film NotesWeird Science – 1985 – John Hughes
The Running Man – 1963 – Carol Reed The House – 2016 – Reinert Kiil Last Rites of the Dead – 2006 – Marc Fratto The Children – 1980 – Max Kalmanowicz Hellmaster – 1992 – Douglas Schulze The Dead Pit – 1989 – Brett Leonard Slaughterhouse Rock – 1988 – Dimitri Logothetis Judy – 2014 – Emanuele De Santi White Buffalo – 1977 – J. Lee Thompson The Damned – 1962 – Joseph Losey Links www.youtube.com/mrparka https://www.instagram.com/mrparka/ https://twitter.com/mrparka00 http://www.screamingtoilet.com/dvd--blu-ray https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://www.facebook.com/mrparka http://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/ https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934?mt=2 https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://letterboxd.com/mrparka/ https://www.patreon.com/mrparka Time Stamps “American Horror Project Vol. 2” Drawing and Corrections – -0:11 “Night of the Creeps” Review (Part of the Derek B. 1986 Special) – 1:47 “Platoon” Review (Part of the Derek B. 1986 Special) – 9:14 “Band of the Hand” Review (Part of the Derek B. 1986 Special) –16:53 “The Color of Money” Review (Part of the Derek B. 1986 Special) – 21:16 “Castle in the Sky” Review (Part of the Derek B. 1986 Special) – 28:26 Patreon Pick “Knuclebones” Review – 34:52 Patreon Pick “Bulletproof” Review – 39:44 Patreon Pick “The Incident” Review – 46:55 Patreon Pick “The Park Is Mine” Review – 58:10 The Weekly Western “Lonesome Dove” Review – 1:04:21 Hammer Time Episode 09(“The Phantom of the Opera”) Review W Jeremy – 1:15:14 Questions – 1:32:00 Answers ““What book would you like made into a film?” or “What film were you surprised to find out was made from a book?” – 1:33:58 Question of the Week “What is a Criterion must buy?” – 1:37:44 Update – 1:38:06 Derek's Podcast - https://www.horrorphilia.com/about/cinema-attack/ Derek's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYX2LEg91cBhyH5lJckoSuA Video Reviews"Night of the Creeps" Blu-Ray Review (Scream Factory)![]() Synopsis Thrill me! When an alien experiment goes awry, it crashes to Earth in 1959 and infects a young college student. Twenty-seven years later, his cryogenically frozen body is thawed out by fraternity pledges ... and the campus is quickly overrun by alien creatures whose victims turn into zombies! Fred Dekker's thoroughly enjoyable throwback chiller deftly mixes all sorts of genres while simultaneously having fun with them (the college and all the leading characters are named after famous horror movie directors). Bonus Features DISC ONE: THEATRICAL VERSION Thrill Me!: The Making Of Night Of The Creeps – A Five-Part Documentary On The Making Of The Film Featuring Interviews With Writer/Director Fred Dekker, Actors Tom Atkins, Jason Lively, Steve Marshall, Jill Whitlow, Producer Charles Gordon, And More Tom Atkins: Man Of Action – A Look At The Actor's Career Deleted Scenes Theatrical Trailer DISC TWO: DIRECTOR'S CUT NEW Horror's Hallowed Grounds – A Look At The Film's Locations Today With Host Sean Clark, Director Fred Dekker And Actor Jason Lively NEW Real Good Plan – An Interview With Actor Jason Lively NEW The Bradster – An Interview With Actor Alan Kayser NEW I Vote For That One – An Interview With Actor Ken Heron NEW Worst Coroner Ever – An Interview With Actor Vic Polizos NEW Answering The Door – An Interview With Actress Suzanne Snyder NEW Final Cut – An Interview With Editor Michael N. Knue Audio Commentary With Writer/Director Fred Dekker Audio Commentary With Actors Tom Atkins, Jason Lively, Steve Marshall And Jill Whitlow Shout! Factory Entertainment – https://www.shoutfactory.com/ “Night of the Creeps” Blu-Ray – https://www.shoutfactory.com/product/night-of-the-creeps-collector-s-edition?product_id=7064 "Platoon" Blu-Ray Review (Shout! Factory)![]() Synopsis "Somebody once wrote, 'Hell is the impossibility of reason.' That's what this place feels like. Hell." Inspired by Oliver Stone's own experiences, this anti-war epic tells the tale of PFC Chris Taylor (Charlie Sheen, Wall Street), a young Army recruit sent to Vietnam, who witnesses the atrocities of war – many of which are carried out by those Chris calls "comrades." Heralded by critics as the best film of 1986, Platoon won four of the eight Academy Awards® for which it was nominated,* including Best Picture and Director for Oliver Stone, and earned Supporting Actor nominations for co-stars Tom Berenger (Inception) and Willem Dafoe (Shadow of the Vampire). Bonus Features From A Brand-New 4K Restoration, Approved By Oliver Stone Audio Commentary By Writer-Director Oliver Stone Audio Commentary By Military Advisor Dale Dye Deleted And Extended Scenes With Optional Commentary By Oliver Stone Flashback To Platoon: "Snapshot In Time: 1967 – 1968" Flashback To Platoon: "Creating The 'Nam" Flashback To Platoon: "Raw Wounds: The Legacy Of Platoon" Documentary: "One War, Many Stories" Documentary: "Preparing For 'Nam" Featurette: "Caputo & The 7th Fleet" Featurette: "Dye Training Method" Featurette: "Gordon Gekko" Theatrical Trailer TV Spots Shout! Factory Entertainment – https://www.shoutfactory.com/ “Platoon” Steelbook Blu-Ray – https://www.hamiltonbook.com/platoon-limited-edition-blu-ray "Band of the Hand" Blu-Ray Review (Mill Creek Entertainment)![]() SYNOPSIS From the Maker of Miami Vice. ...whack, splat and kaboom, with fast cuts to a rock beat. - The New York Times Out of Jail. Trained as a team. Their battle to clean up the streets of Miami is about to begin. Welcome to the jungle, Miami-style, where fast cars, dirty deals, hot women, and acid-washed jeans all come with the turf. While serving time in a grueling rehab program in Florida's Everglades, five young felons bond together to form an unlikely union. When they return to Miami's dangerous ghetto, the five former criminals wage a lethal war on the drug kingpins who rule the underworld of murder and mayhem. BAND OF THE HAND goes for the jugular, never once loosening its grip until its heart-stopping climax! Contains English subtitles Mill Creek Entertainment – https://www.millcreekent.com/ “Band of the Hand” Blu-Ray – https://www.deepdiscount.com/band-of-the-hand/683904632678 "The Color of Money" Blu-Ray Review![]() Experience legendary actor Paul Newman in the role that earned him an Academy Award® (Best Actor, 1986, The Color Of Money). Newman joins Hollywood megastar Tom Cruise (Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol) in Academy Award winning Martin Scorsese’s (Best Director, 2006, The Departed) brilliant and powerful drama, The Color Of Money – now available for the first time on Blu-ray with an astonishing digital transfer. Revisiting one of his most memorable roles, Newman stars as Fast Eddie Felson from The Hustler. Eddie forms a profitable alliance with the flashy and talented young pool shark Vince (Cruise), but all bets are off when Vince’s arrogance costs them more than just a few matches. Celebrate the 25th anniversary of this dazzling classic – now better than ever on Blu-ray! “The Color of Money” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/Color-Money-Blu-ray-Paul-Newman/dp/B001GS7AZS/ "Castle in the Sky" Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Review (Disney)![]() Castle in the Sky is a timeless story of courage and friendship, with stunning animation from acclaimed Academy Award-winning director Hayao Miyazaki. This high-flying adventure begins when Pazu, an engineer’s apprentice, spies a young girl, Sheeta, floating down from the sky, held aloft by a glowing pendant. Both Sheeta and Pazu are searching for the legendary floating castle, Laputa, and they vow to travel there together to unravel the mystery of the luminous crystal. But their quest won’t be easy, as soon they are being pursued by greedy air pirates, the military, and secret government agents, who all seek the power Sheeta alone can control. Featuring the voices of Anna Paquin, James Van Der Beek, Cloris Leachman, and Mark Hamill. Special features • Feature-Length Storyboards • Original Theatrical Trailers • Promotional Video • Behind the Microphone • Scoring Miyazaki • Producer's Perspective: Meeting Miyazaki • Creating Castle in the Sky • Textless Opening and End Credits • Character Sketches • Additional English Mix of Film • 12-pg Booklet w/ Statements from Producers and Director “Castle in the Sky” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/Castle-Sky-Bluray-Combo-Blu-ray/dp/B073ZTMJN3/ Patreon Pick "Knucklebones" Streaming Review (CONtv)![]() Roll the bones and say his name, you'll wish you didn't play the game SYNOPSIS: When college student Neesa and a group of friends stumble across an ancient dice game their first instinct is to roll them bones. Their second instinct is to run for their lives when the demon they summon starts killing them off one by one. Midnight Releasing – https://midnightreleasing.com/ “Knucklebones” DVD – https://www.amazon.com/Knucklebones-Julin-Jean/dp/B01H5X80Y2/ Patreon Pick "Bulletproof" DVD Review (Shout! Factory)![]() Synopsis BULLETPROOF 1988/Anamorphic Widescreen/Dolby Digital Stereo A Los Angeles cop/ex-CIA agent Frank "Bulletproof" McBain (Gary Busey) travels across the border to retrieve a top-secret attack vehicle which was hijacked by Russian-backed Libyan terrorists. Darlanne Fluegel (Battle Beyond The Stars) and Henry Silva (Sharky's Machine) also star. Also in the set BAMBOO GODS & IRON MEN TRACKDOWN SCORCHY Shout! Factory Entertainment – https://www.shoutfactory.com/ “Action-Packed Movie Marathon: Vol. 2 [4 Films]” (Bulletproof Included) DVD – https://www.shoutfactory.com/product/action-packed-movie-marathon-vol-2-4-films?product_id=2977 Patreon Pick "The Incident" Review![]() A BOLD, GRITTY, TERRIFYING STORY OF INNER-CITY TERROR Two hoodlums terrorize the passengers of a late-night New York City subway train. “The Incident” Import Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Incident-Eureka-Classics-Format-Blu-ray/dp/B07SJY3GXN/ Patreon Pick "The Park Is Mine" Blu-Ray Review (Kino Lorber)![]() Description: He was the one veteran, they couldn’t ignore! Screen icon Tommy Lee Jones (Blown Away) stars in this explosive thriller about a Vietnam vet’s drastic steps to make his country sit up and take notice. The war in Asia is over, but one disillusioned, disappointed ex-soldier decides to declare his own war bringing attention to the unfair and unjust treatment of Vietnam veterans in America. An expert in jungle warfare and guerilla tactics, the ex-soldier uses his lethal knowledge to “take” New York City’s Central Park. Even Manhattan’s street-wise cops, under the command of sympathetic Frank Eubanks (Yaphet Kotto, Report to the Commissioner), are no match for the skilled commando who within hours, proclaim, The Park is Mine. And in the blazing confrontation that follows, the Vietnam War just might be fought all over again – right here at home. Helen Shaver (The Believers) and Lawrence Dane (Scanners) co-star this suspense-filled action film, featuring atmospheric and haunting musical score by Tangerine Dream (The Keep, Thief, Miracle Mile). Blu-ray Extras Include: Audio Commentary by Film Historian Nathaniel Thompson (Mondo Digital) Reversible Art Trailers Kino Lorber – https://www.kinolorber.com/ “The Park Is Mine” Blu-Ray – https://www.kinolorber.com/product/the-park-is-mine-dvd The Weekly Western "Lonesome Dove" Blu-Ray Review (Mill Creek Entertainment)![]() SYNOPSIS The Epic Film As Big As The West Based upon the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Larry McMurtry and set in the late nineteenth century, this sprawling epic of the Old West is the story of the last defiant frontier, a daring cattle drive, and an undying love. Augustus McCrea (Duvall) and Woodrow F. Call (Jones), former Texas Rangers, are partners and friends who have shared hardship and danger. Gus is the romantic, a reluctant rancher who has a way with women and the sense to leave well enough alone. Call is a driven, demanding man, a natural authority figure with no patience for weakness. He is obsessed with the dream of creating a new homestead. The two men could hardly be more different, but both are tough fighters who have learned to count on each other, if nothing else. Call’s dream not only drags Gus along in its wake, but also draws in a group of fearless wranglers, trackers, and scouts. Through sandstorms, stampedes, bandits, floods and snow, these characters live on to become legends of the great American West. "This six-hour miniseries, based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Larry McMurtry, revitalized both the miniseries and Western genres, both of which had been considered dead for several years...." - The New York Times Starring: Robert Duvall, Tommy Lee Jones, Danny Glover, Diane Lane, Robert Urich, Frederic Forrest, D.B. Sweeney, Rick Schroder and Anjelica Huston BONUS FEATURES Blueprints of a Masterpiece: Original Sketches and Concept Drawings On Location with Director Simon Wincer Remembering Lonesome Dove: Vintage Interviews with the Cast Interview with Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author Larry McMurtry Lonesome Dove Montage Mill Creek Entertainment – https://www.millcreekent.com/ “Lonesome Dove” Blu-Ray Steelbook – https://www.amazon.com/Lonesome-Dove-SteelBook-Robert-Duvall/dp/B07RB898LB/ Hammer Time Week 10 "The Phantom of the Opera" Blu-Ray Review![]() BENEATH HIS MASK...THE GROTESQUE FACE OF HORROR UNIMAGINABLE! INSIDE HIS HEART...THE DESPERATE DESIRE FOR BEAUTY AND LOVE! The corrupt Lord Ambrose D'Arcy steals the life's work of the poor musical Professor Petry. In an attempt to stop the printing of music with D'Arcy's name on it, Petry breaks into the printing office and accidentally starts a fire, leaving him severely disfigured. Years later, Petry returns to terrorize a London opera house that is about to perform one of his stolen operas. “Hammer Horror 8 Pack” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/Hammer-Horror-8-Film-Collection-Blu-ray/dp/B01I048O8W/ Ask a Question/Answer a QuestionWhat is a must have Blu-Ray from the Criterion Collection? Podcast Version![]() https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934? https://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/e/mrparka-s-weekly-reviews-episode-114-audio-version/ UpdateBlu-Rays 1. Rosemary’s Baby 2. Story of Sin 3. Ray Harryhausen Special Effects Titan 4. The Tough Ones 5. Murder by Death 6. Deadly Force 7. Black ‘47 8. Starman DVD 9. The Losers Film NotesNight of the Creeps – 1986 – Fred Dekker
Platoon – 1986 – Oliver Stone Band of the Hand – 1986 – Paul Michael Glaser The Color of Money – 1986 – Martin Scorsese Castle in the Sky – 1986 – Hayao Miyazaki Knucklebones – 2016 – Mitch Wilson Bulletproof – 1988 – Steve Carver The Incident – 1967 – Larry Peerce The Park Is Mine – 1985 – Steven Hilliard Stern Lonesome Dove – 1989 – Simon Wincer The Phantom of the Opera – 1962 – Terence Fisher Links www.youtube.com/mrparka https://www.instagram.com/mrparka/ https://twitter.com/mrparka00 http://www.screamingtoilet.com/dvd--blu-ray https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://www.facebook.com/mrparka http://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/ https://www.facebook.com/screamingpotty/ https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934?mt=2 https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://letterboxd.com/mrparka/ https://www.patreon.com/mrparka Time Stamps “American Horror Project Vol. 2” Contest – -0:11 Patreon Contest Drawing – 0:54 “Midsommar” Review – 1:45 “Night Killer” Review–6:56 “The Chill Factor” Review – 12:29 “To Hell and Back: The Kane Hodder Story” Review – 18:50 “Dry Blood” Review – 23:03 Patreon Pick “Cool Hand Luke” Review – 29:26 Patreon Pick “Mary and Max” Review – 37:16 Patreon Pick “Enter the Void” Review – 43:31 Patreon Pick “Shaye Saint John: The Triggers Compilation” Review – 50:22 Hammer Time Episode 8(“Night Creatures" aka "Captain Clegg”) Review W Jeremy – 55:27 Questions – 1:10:25 Answers “Has being a cinefile ever gotten you into trouble?” – 1:12:04 Question of the Week “What book would you like made into a film?” or “What film were you surprised to find out was made from a book?” – 1:14:05 Update – 1:14:26 Enter Contest by sending an email to screamingtoiletcontest@gmail.com Contest For a chance to enter please click the contest tab above and write an entry to the following email address. screamingtoiletcontest@gmail.com Video Reviews"Midsommar" Review (Theater)![]() LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN. A young couple travels to Sweden to visit their friend’s rural hometown and attend its mid-summer festival. What begins as an idyllic retreat quickly descends into an increasingly violent and bizarre competition at the hands of a pagan cult. "Night Killer" Blu-Ray Review (Severin Films)![]() Written by MrParka “Night Killer” makes its way to Blu-Ray for the first time ever thanks to the folks over at Severin Films. Director Claudio Fragasso wanted to take a different approach to making films. Instead of the fun splatter he was used to doing, he wanted to do a suspense thriller with psychological elements. After filming was completed the producer had Bruno Mattei, a longtime friend and collaborator of Fragasso, film some additional scenes and edit it. The result of this interference is a weird slasher that ends up being part police procedural and part psychosexual insanity. Melanie Beck is attacked by a serial rapist and murderer. The attack on her is so long and brutal she suffers a mental breakdown. Not only is her mind damaged, but her memory is lost and she can’t remember anything about her attacker, herself, or family. Thanks to lackluster police protection and a radical doctor she is caught in the clutches or another sexual maniac. An all new torture begins, but is this the same maniac from before or is this monster just another sicko? “Night Killer” is guilty of having one of the worst cops and doctors in screen history. Not only do they manage to let Mrs. Beck be abducted again, but they make all sorts of hilarious mistakes that put others and their own lives in jeopardy. These mistakes make for some great humor, although some of them are justified with the twist in the film. Being made in 1990, “Night Killer” couldn’t just be advertised as a thriller with sexual elements, oh no, that wouldn’t do! The producers somehow wanted to appeal to the bloodthirsty slasher fans that were craving the next installment of the big franchise. Simple fix, now the killer wears a mask that resembles a burnt man and sports a claw with razor sharp nails! If this exploitative ploy weren’t enough, the film was sometimes put on the shelves as “Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3”, but shares no relation to the previous films of that franchise. The whole ordeal should bring a smirk to the faces of dedicated horror fans. Fragasso mentioned in the special features he wanted to shoot this as an art film filled with long complicated shots. Fragasso managed to shoot some fairly nice scenes that incorporate dolly shots that sport plenty of extras. The shortcomings don’t come from the style of film making, the camera work, or even direction. They come from some of the strange script elements and the reshoots sort of blurring the tone. The murder scenes in the film incorporate unrelated characters with large breasts being punctured by the razor sharp nails. These scenes are shameless, yes, but never boring. Just as sleazy, there is a part where the lead takes off her shirt and stares at herself topless. This could be a look into her psychological state, a way for the killer to be triggered, or a way to show some skin. You be the judge. The whole film shares some similarities to another Severin release directed by Maestro Lucio Fulci entitled “The Devil’s Honey”. Both films seem to explore a damaged character with psychosexual problems being dominated and humiliated. Although I would say “Night Killer” falls a little short of “The Devil’s Honey” depravity, it still has its moments. “Night Killer” does manage to show some bothersome scenes, even if they are sometimes so over the top it comes across as pure insanity. Some of the most notable include Mrs. Beck and her kidnapper sharing a dramatic screaming exchange while she threatens him with her suicide. The kidnapper simply screams back with the gun sometimes pointed directly at him and professes his love for fried chicken. I’m fairly certain most will guess the killer and some of the other twists, but as for the final twist; it’s so off the wall it will leave the audience slap silly. Severin Films has included an interview with director Claudio Fragasso and writer Rossella Drudi. The interviews are fun and entertaining. Both interviewees go into the fight that Fragasso had with Bruno Mattei over the addition of his scenes to the film and some other fun anecdotes. Thanks to Severin Films we get to see this fairly rare Italian slasher/thriller/sleaze fest on Blu Description Somewhere between ZOMBIE 4 and TROLL 2, writer/director Claudio Fragasso – here under the name ‘Clyde Anderson’ – set out to direct a suspense thriller about a suicidal beauty, an unstable sleazebag and a masked killer with a razor-fingered glove. But when the producers received Fragasso’s cut, they hired his former partner Bruno Mattei (THE OTHER HELL, ROBOWAR) to shoot additional scenes of graphic gore and released it in Italy as TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE 3. The result is part sicko giallo, part depraved slasher and 100% batshit insanity that Euro Fever calls “disturbing, nasty and more inspired than most Italian horror of the early ‘90s.” Peter Hooten (INGLORIOUS BASTARDS) and Tara Buckman (SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT) star in this glorious slice of ItaloSleaze co-written by Rossella Drudi (SHOCKING DARK), now scanned in 4k from the original negative. Special Features: The Virginia Claw Massacre: Interview With Director Claudio Fragasso Mindfuck: Interview With Screenwriter Rossella Drudi Trailer Severin Films – https://severin-films.com/ “Night Killer” Blu-Ray – https://severin-films.com/shop/night-killer-bluray/ "The Chill Factor" Blu-Ray Review (Arrow Video)![]() The Exorcist meets the Winter Olympics in this tale of demonic possession and snowbound slashing from director Christopher Webster, producer of Hellraiser and Hellraiser II: Hellbound. For a group of young couples, a snowmobiling trip turns into a waking nightmare when one of their number is thrown from their vehicle and knocked unconscious. Seeking refuge in a nearby abandoned summer camp, the group find themselves holed up in a cabin filled with bizarre and ominous religious artefacts. As night falls, the discovery of a Ouija board amidst the dusty relics awakens a terrifying evil. Barely released outside of its original VHS outing (for which it was retitled Demon Possessed), cult enthusiasts Arrow Video have dug up The Chill Factor from its wintry analogue grave so horror fans can rediscover this heady mixture of snow, slaughter and Satan! Bonus Materials Brand new 2K restoration from original film elements High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation Original uncompressed stereo audio Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing Brand new audio commentary with special effects artist Hank Carlson and horror writer Josh Hadley Brand new on-camera interview with makeup artist Jeffery Lyle Segal Brand new on-camera interview with production manager Alexandra Reed Brand new on-camera interview with stunt coordinator Gary Paul Still Gallery Original VHS trailer Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Marc Schoenbach TO BE REVEALED FIRST PRESSING ONLY: Collector’s booklet featuring new writing by Mike White Arrow Video – https://www.arrowvideo.com/ “The Chill Factor” Blu-Ray – https://mvdshop.com/products/the-chill-factor-blu-ray "To Hell and Back: The Kane Hodder Story" Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Review (Dread Central Presents)![]() The story of Kane Hodder who survived a childhood near-death accident to become one of films biggest horror icons. Featuring interviews with cinema legends, including Bruce Campbell (Ash vs. Evil Dead), Robert Englund (Freddy Krueger), and Cassandra Peterson (Elvira: Mistress of the Dark), To Hell and Back: The Kane Hodder Story peels off the mask of Kane Hodder, cinema's most prolific killer, in a gut-wrenching, but inspiring, documentary. To Hell and Back is the harrowing story of a stuntman overcoming a dehumanizing childhood filled with torment and bullying in Sparks, Nevada. After surviving a near-death burn accident, he worked his way up through Hollywood, leading to his ultimate rise as Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th series and making countless moviegoers forever terrified of hockey masks and summer camp. After decades of watching Kane Hodder on screen, get ready to meet the man behind the mask in To Hell and Back - a uniquely human story about one of cinema's most vicious monsters. Bonus Materials Over 90 minutes of Deleted Scenes, including more on the FRIDAY THE 13TH and HATCHET franchises English SDH Spanish Subtitles Theatrical Trailer Additional trailers from Dread Central Presents Dread Central – https://www.dreadcentral.com/ “To Hell and Back: The Kane Hodder Story” DVD/Blu-Ray Combo – https://mvdshop.com/products/to-hell-and-back-the-kane-hodder-story-blu-ray "Dry Blood" Blu-Ray Review (Dread Central Presents)![]() In a rural town, a drug addict must unravel a surreal murder mystery as he's terrorized by his withdrawal. Brian Barnes returns to his mountain vacation home to sober up one final time. Most of the houses of this dwindling community sit empty during the snowless offseason. This ghost town seems like the perfect place for Brian to begin putting his life back together. His attempt to get clean is soon interrupted by a sadistic local Sheriff and ghastly visions of ghosts (that may or may not be hallucinations brought on by his withdrawal). Brian embarks on a terrifying quest to discover the horrible secret past of the very cabin he is sleeping in. As he pulls at the threads to the mystery, it may be his sanity that unravels first. Bonus Materials Audio Commentary with Writer and Director Remember Not To Kill: The Making of DRY BLOOD Collectible Reverse Cover Art Spanish Subtitles English Closed Captions English 5.1 Surround Sound and English Stereo 2.0 Dread Central – https://www.dreadcentral.com/ “Dry Blood” Blu-Ray – https://mvdshop.com/products/dry-blood-blu-ray Patreon Pick "Cool Hand Luke" Blu-Ray Review![]() His crime: nonconformity. His sentence: the chain gang. Paul Newman plays one of his best loved roles as Cool Hand Luke, the loner who won't - or can't - bend to the arbitrary rules of his captivity. A cast of fine actors, including George Kennedy in his Oscar winning role of Dragline and the indelible Jo Van Fleet as Luke's mother, give Newman solid support. And Strother Martin is the Captain who taunts Luke with the now legendary line, "What we've got here is...failure to communicate." No failure here. With rich humor and vibrant storytelling power, Cool Hand Luke succeeds resoundingly. Features Commentary By Historian/Newman Biographer Eric Lax New Documentary A Natural Born World Shaker: Making Of Cool Hand Luke Theatrical Trailer “Cool Hand Luke” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/Cool-Hand-Luke-Blu-ray-Newman/dp/B0017TYPIG/ Patreon Pick "Mary and Max" DVD Review (IFC Films)![]() Sometimes perfect strangers make the best of friends From Academy Award® winning writer/director Adam Elliot and producer Melanie Coombs (Harvie Krumpet) comes the hilarious and moving new 'claymated' feature film about the pen-pal relationship between two very different people: Mary Daisy Dinkle (voiced by Oscar® nominee Toni Collette) is a lonely 8-year-old in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. Max Jerry Horovitz (Oscar® winner Philip Seymour Hoffman) is an obese 44-year-old with Asperger's Syndrome living in the chaos of New York City. Over the course of 20 years and 2 continents, their unusual journey of friendship will explore autism, taxidermy, alcoholism, where babies come from, kleptomania, sexual differences, trust, copulating dogs, religious differences, agoraphobia and more of life's big and little surprises. Features US Trailer International Trailer Commentary Behind The Scenes Making Of Alternate Scenes Casting Call Short Film: Harvie Krumpet IFC Films – https://www.ifcfilms.com/ “Mary and Max” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Max-Blu-ray-Toni-Collette/dp/B003CJXIOG/ Patreon Pick "Enter the Void" Blu-Ray Review (IFC Films)![]() Controversial and brilliant director Gasper Noe follows his worldwide sensation Irreversible with another triumph. Enter The Void is Noe's most assured and haunting film yet, a "head trip" a la Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey and at the same time a piercing modern drama. Newcomer Nathaniel Brown and Paz de la Huerta (HBO's Boardwalk Empire) star as a brother and sister trapped in the hellish nighttime world of Tokyo where he deals drugs and she works as a stripper. A crime gone bad leads to shocking violence and then moments of transcendence in which the movie plunges viewers into death and rebirth like no film has ever done before via "mesmerizing camerawork" (The New York Times) that make it "a dazzling and brutal exercise in cinematic envelope-pushing" (New York Post). Stunning audiences around the world, Enter The Void is a cinematic experience like no other. Features Deleted Scenes Teasers Theatrical Trailers U.S. Trailer Unused Trailers VFX Vortex DMT Posters IFC Films – https://www.ifcfilms.com/ “Enter the Void” Blu-Ray – https://www.amazon.com/Enter-Void-Blu-ray-Nathaniel-Brown/dp/B0048LPRD2/ Patreon Pick "Shaye Saint John: The Triggers Compilation" DVD Review![]() Just Keep In Mind, That You'll Be Trying To Shake It Off For Hours Afterwards. Welcome to the funbubble! Over 2 hours of bizarre entertainment. Meet Shaye Saint John, former super-model who now has no arms or legs and her special friend Kiki (a burnt doll). This series of shorts document the daily collision of Shaye's glamorous fantasies with the realities of the physical limitations of her everyday life. These films with their juxtaposition of child-like imagery can be genuinely disturbing without a hint of blood, violence, or nudity, cursing or off-color subject matter of any sort. Watching Shaye do her schtick is akin to watching a segment of one of John Water's early flicks. There is no question about the fine line between madness and genius here - it's madness, plain and simple, dizzying in it's detachment to reality. Depending on your outlook, Shaye Saint John is either a true testimony to the power of art to rise above adversity or these film are hidden footage from a ward for the criminally insane! Be warned, repeat viewings will lead you to walk away talking Shaye speak - Gawd! 24/7! Do you like my Gams? Features Theatrical Trailers Music Videos Sneak Previews Easter Eggs “Shaye Saint John: The Triggers Compilation” DVD – https://www.amazon.com/Shaye-Saint-John-Triggers-Compilation/dp/B001MBTRVO/ Hammer Time # 9 "Night Creatures" aka "Captain Clegg" ![]() WHO KNOWS THE TRUTH ABOUT THE CURSE OF CAPTAIN CLEGG? What secret lay behind the dreaded Marsh Phantoms, the ghostly riders whose silent approach in the darkness of the bleak, unwelcoming Romney Marshes causes men to die of fright? Are they a genuine manifestation or a cover for illegal smuggling activities. Perhaps Dr Blyss, the benign vicar of the quiet village of Dymchurch, knows the truth about the ruthless pirate and smuggler who lies buried in the village graveyard and can unravel the phenomenon of the curse of Captain Clegg. Hammer Blu-Ray Set – https://www.amazon.com/Hammer-Horror-8-Film-Collection-Blu-ray/dp/B01I048O8W/ Ask a Question/Answer a QuestionWhat book do you want made into a movie? and/or What movie were you surprised to find out was based off of a book? Podcast Version![]() https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/podbean-70/shut-up-brandon-podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-up-brandon-podcast/id988229934? https://shutupbrandon.podbean.com/e/mrparka-s-weekly-reviews-episode-113-audio-version/ UpdateBlu-Rays 1. Viy Film NotesMidsommar – 2019 – Ari Aster
Night Killer – 1990 – Claudio Fragasso/Bruno Mattei The Chill Factor – 1993 – Christopher Webster To Hell and Back: The Kane Hodder Story – 2017 – Derek Dennis Herbert Dry Blood – 2017 – Kelton Jones Cool Hand Luke – 1967 – Stuart Rosenberg Mary and Max – 2009 – Adam Elliot Enter the Void – 2009 – Gaspar Noé Shaye Saint John: The Triggers Compilation – 2004 – Eric Fournier Night Creature – 1962 – Peter Graham Scott |
Archives
November 2019
|