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So many movies ... so little time!!!
On September 19, 2025 (in the U.S.), Meat Kills (aka Vleesdag) enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Fantastic Fest held in Austin, Texas. Directed by Martijn Smits from a story by Paul de Vrijer, the film starred Caro Derkx, Sem Ben Yakar, Emma Josten, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"To join an activist group, Mirthe films a pig farm's cruelty. When they return to free the pigs, they're already dead. The leader seeks revenge on the farmer's children, forcing Mirthe to choose sides as violence erupts."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Vleesdag earned a bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
On September 19, 2025 (in the U.S.), Meat Kills (aka Vleesdag) enjoyed its first theatrical exhibition ever when it was screened for audiences in attendance of the Fantastic Fest held in Austin, Texas. Directed by Martijn Smits from a story by Paul de Vrijer, the film starred Caro Derkx, Sem Ben Yakar, Emma Josten, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"To join an activist group, Mirthe films a pig farm's cruelty. When they return to free the pigs, they're already dead. The leader seeks revenge on the farmer's children, forcing Mirthe to choose sides as violence erupts."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Vleesdag earned a bit of praise from screenings on the film festival circuit.
From Google.com:
Meat Kills (originally titled Vleesdag) is a 2025 Dutch extreme horror film that gained notoriety as the first film from the Netherlands to receive an NC-17 rating. Directed by Martijn Smits, it is a brutal, nihilistic slasher that explores the violent escalation between animal rights activists and a farming family.
Plot Overview
The story follows Mirthe, a young woman seeking to join a radical activist group called the "Animal Army". To prove her worth, she secretly films animal cruelty at a local pig farm. However, when the group returns to the farm at night to liberate the animals, they find the cages empty—the pigs have already been slaughtered.
Enraged by the discovery, the group's leader, Nasha, shifts the mission from rescue to revenge, targeting the farmer's children. When the farmer, Jonas, returns to defend his property and family, the farm transforms into a bloody battleground where Mirthe must navigate the extreme violence of both sides to survive.
Key Features
Release Information
Meat Kills (originally titled Vleesdag) is a 2025 Dutch extreme horror film that gained notoriety as the first film from the Netherlands to receive an NC-17 rating. Directed by Martijn Smits, it is a brutal, nihilistic slasher that explores the violent escalation between animal rights activists and a farming family.
Plot Overview
The story follows Mirthe, a young woman seeking to join a radical activist group called the "Animal Army". To prove her worth, she secretly films animal cruelty at a local pig farm. However, when the group returns to the farm at night to liberate the animals, they find the cages empty—the pigs have already been slaughtered.
Enraged by the discovery, the group's leader, Nasha, shifts the mission from rescue to revenge, targeting the farmer's children. When the farmer, Jonas, returns to defend his property and family, the farm transforms into a bloody battleground where Mirthe must navigate the extreme violence of both sides to survive.
Key Features
- Extreme Violence: The film is noted for its "hardcore" and "visceral" gore, utilizing practical makeup effects rather than digital ones. Critics have compared its intensity to the "New French Extremity" movement, including films like High Tension and Frontier(s).
- Thematic Depth: Beyond the carnage, the film serves as a satirical critique of political and moral extremism. It presents a world where "no one is entirely good or bad," forcing the audience to grapple with the dehumanization inherent in radical activism and traditionalist defense.
- Visual Style: The cinematography features a bleak, clinical, and grimy aesthetic, heavily inspired by early 2000s horror like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003 remake) and Hostel.
Release Information
- Premiere: It had its world premiere at Fantastic Fest in September 2025.
- Streaming: The film is available to watch on platforms like Screambox and Amazon Prime.
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press release
she lost the weight ... but she can't escape herself!
Philadelphia, PA – April 10, 2026 – Breaking Glass Pictures is proud to announce the North American release of the highly anticipated horror film Thinestra, set to premiere on streaming platforms on April 14, 2026. Directed by Nathan Hertz and produced by Alexandra Lubenova and Kelly Parker, the film has already made waves on the international festival circuit, including screenings at Sitges International Film Festival, Raindance, Screamfest, Boston SciFi Film Festival, and more, earning the VORTEX Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror Award Grand Prize along the way.
Producer Alexandra Lubenova shared her excitement for the release:
"We're thrilled to partner with Breaking Glass Pictures on the North American release of Thinestra. They're a trusted home for elevated genre titles and immediately understood the film's place within a new wave of body horror centered on appetite, desire, and costly physical transformation. Their release strategy is thoughtful and ambitious, and we can't wait for audiences to devour the film when it premieres this April."
A New Wave of Body Horror
Thinestra tells the story of Penny (Michelle Macedo), a young woman tormented by body dysmorphia and relentless societal pressures around perfection. When Penny impulsively takes a mysterious, Ozempic-esque weight-loss drug, she experiences a horrifyingly literal transformation. The fat she sheds returns as her ravenous doppelgänger, Penelope (Melissa Macedo), and chaos ensues.
Set against a sweltering Los Angeles Christmas, the film explores obsession, shame, and appetite—transforming Penny’s internal struggle into a grotesque, darkly comedic horror spectacle.
Director Nathan Hertz explains:
"Body-image anxiety becomes a literal monster in this story. Penelope isn’t the villain—she’s the symptom. The real antagonist is the voice in Penny’s head that tells her she’s not enough. The film exaggerates these anxieties to grotesque levels but the feelings are incredibly common."
Critics Are Taking Notice
The film has already garnered strong praise from critics.
In a 4/5 star review for UpcomingOnScreen.com, Scott Gilliland writes:
"Obsession with perfection is a cruel thing that humans suffer with, and in Thinestra, we are given a tragedy, a blood soaked terrific tragedy. See this at the first opportunity."
Gilliland particularly highlighted the performances of twin actresses and , calling them “difficult to manage, yet both are able to do so, and by ensuring that we always feel sympathy for Penny, they more than succeed in their performances.”
Streaming Release
Thinestra will premiere on North American streaming platforms on April 14, 2026. Prepare for a film that is equal parts grotesque horror, dark comedy, and psychological insight—one that will linger long after the credits roll.
A Talented Ensemble Cast:
Festival Accolades:
Press Details:
Production Details:
Producer Alexandra Lubenova shared her excitement for the release:
"We're thrilled to partner with Breaking Glass Pictures on the North American release of Thinestra. They're a trusted home for elevated genre titles and immediately understood the film's place within a new wave of body horror centered on appetite, desire, and costly physical transformation. Their release strategy is thoughtful and ambitious, and we can't wait for audiences to devour the film when it premieres this April."
A New Wave of Body Horror
Thinestra tells the story of Penny (Michelle Macedo), a young woman tormented by body dysmorphia and relentless societal pressures around perfection. When Penny impulsively takes a mysterious, Ozempic-esque weight-loss drug, she experiences a horrifyingly literal transformation. The fat she sheds returns as her ravenous doppelgänger, Penelope (Melissa Macedo), and chaos ensues.
Set against a sweltering Los Angeles Christmas, the film explores obsession, shame, and appetite—transforming Penny’s internal struggle into a grotesque, darkly comedic horror spectacle.
Director Nathan Hertz explains:
"Body-image anxiety becomes a literal monster in this story. Penelope isn’t the villain—she’s the symptom. The real antagonist is the voice in Penny’s head that tells her she’s not enough. The film exaggerates these anxieties to grotesque levels but the feelings are incredibly common."
Critics Are Taking Notice
The film has already garnered strong praise from critics.
In a 4/5 star review for UpcomingOnScreen.com, Scott Gilliland writes:
"Obsession with perfection is a cruel thing that humans suffer with, and in Thinestra, we are given a tragedy, a blood soaked terrific tragedy. See this at the first opportunity."
Gilliland particularly highlighted the performances of twin actresses and , calling them “difficult to manage, yet both are able to do so, and by ensuring that we always feel sympathy for Penny, they more than succeed in their performances.”
Streaming Release
Thinestra will premiere on North American streaming platforms on April 14, 2026. Prepare for a film that is equal parts grotesque horror, dark comedy, and psychological insight—one that will linger long after the credits roll.
A Talented Ensemble Cast:
- Michelle Macedo (Penny) – Known for her work in High Potential, Goliath & Girlboss, Michelle brings both vulnerability and grit to Penny, grounding the film’s fantastical horror in emotional authenticity.
- Melissa Macedo (Penelope) – Michelle’s identical twin, Melissa embodies the grotesque and chaotic counterpart to Penny, making the doppelgänger dynamic truly uncanny.
- Gavin Stenhouse (Josh) – Recognized for roles in Black Mirror, The Oval and 9-1-1, Stenhouse brings depth and tension to the film’s supporting narrative.
- Shannon Dang (Chaela) – Known for her work in Kung Fu & Jump Scare, Dang provides both warmth and intensity as Penny’s friend navigating the unfolding horror.
- Norma Maldonado (Amanda) – With a career spanning stage and screen, Maldonado delivers a compelling presence that heightens the film’s stakes.
- Brian Huskey (Neils) – Beloved for roles in Another Period, Vice Principals & Childrens Hospital, Huskey adds both comedic timing and sharp social commentary.
- Annie Ilonzeh (Demetria) – From Chicago Med & SWAT to indie features, Ilonzeh brings poise and subtle tension to her role.
- Mary Beth Barone (Mariah) – Barone’s nuanced performance complements the chaos that Penny and Penelope unleash. Best known for performances in series such as Black Mirror & Overcompensating.
Festival Accolades:
- Sitges International Film Festival
- Raindance Film Festival
- Flickers' Rhode Island International Film Festival
- Screamfest Film Festival
- Yellowstone International Film Festival
- Buenos Aires Festival Internacional de Cine Independiente
- Boston SciFi Film Festival
- Festival do Rio
- FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival
- VORTEX Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror Award Grand Prize
Press Details:
- Official Trailer: Watch Trailer Here
- IMDb Page: Thinestra IMDb
Production Details:
- Production Year: 2025
- Genre: Horror
- Language: English
- Production Country: US
- Production Company: Dogplayer, Hitmakers Media, Mary Ellen Moffat, Stay Lucky Studio
- Runtime: 1:27:41
About Breaking Glass Pictures:
Founded in 2009 and based in Philadelphia, Breaking Glass Pictures is a leading independent film distribution company focused on delivering thought-provoking, inclusive, and impactful films to audiences worldwide. With a strong history of championing LGBTQ+ cinema, documentaries, and bold independent features, Breaking Glass proudly supports visionary storytellers who challenge convention and spotlight underrepresented voices.
Founded in 2009 and based in Philadelphia, Breaking Glass Pictures is a leading independent film distribution company focused on delivering thought-provoking, inclusive, and impactful films to audiences worldwide. With a strong history of championing LGBTQ+ cinema, documentaries, and bold independent features, Breaking Glass proudly supports visionary storytellers who challenge convention and spotlight underrepresented voices.
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press release
Seth Breedlove Tackles
Unsolved Disappearances in Vermont
High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle Debuts
on Digital Platforms April 28
Available Exclusive on DVD from Small Town Monsters
Massillon, OH -Audiences are invited to explore Vermont’s strangest location in From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle, coming later this month to streaming and DVD.
From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle will launch on streaming platforms, including Apple TV, Prime Video and Google Play, on April 28, 2026. DVDs of the documentary will be available exclusively from the Small Town Monsters shop.
From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle is directed by Seth Breedlove, founder of Small Town Monsters, whose previous work includes The Mothman of Point Pleasant, On the Trail of Bigfoot, American Werewolves and over two dozen other full length productions. Breedlove and his team have released over thirty films, numerous investigative programs, web series, books, podcasts and has launched a membership platform with exclusive content. In addition to producing films, Small Town Monsters also attends events throughout the year to screen their movies and talk about these strange tales.
From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle was made possible by the backers of the 2025 Small Town Monsters Kickstarter campaign.
Since the mid twentieth century, a mysterious section of land in rural Vermont has been the home of untold strangeness. Rumors of UFOs, ghosts, phantom lights and mysterious creatures can all be found there in abundance, while verified reports of odd disappearances - many still unsolved - cast a shadow over Glastenbury Mountain. From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle goes beyond the rumors and campfire stories, while daring to ask what may be the most frightening question of all - why is Glastenbury Mountain so inexplicable, and what happened to those who have gone missing?
From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle will launch on streaming platforms, including Apple TV, Prime Video and Google Play, on April 28, 2026. DVDs of the documentary will be available exclusively from the Small Town Monsters shop.
From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle is directed by Seth Breedlove, founder of Small Town Monsters, whose previous work includes The Mothman of Point Pleasant, On the Trail of Bigfoot, American Werewolves and over two dozen other full length productions. Breedlove and his team have released over thirty films, numerous investigative programs, web series, books, podcasts and has launched a membership platform with exclusive content. In addition to producing films, Small Town Monsters also attends events throughout the year to screen their movies and talk about these strange tales.
From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle was made possible by the backers of the 2025 Small Town Monsters Kickstarter campaign.
Since the mid twentieth century, a mysterious section of land in rural Vermont has been the home of untold strangeness. Rumors of UFOs, ghosts, phantom lights and mysterious creatures can all be found there in abundance, while verified reports of odd disappearances - many still unsolved - cast a shadow over Glastenbury Mountain. From the Beyond: High Strangeness in the Bennington Triangle goes beyond the rumors and campfire stories, while daring to ask what may be the most frightening question of all - why is Glastenbury Mountain so inexplicable, and what happened to those who have gone missing?
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So many movies ... so little time ...
On this day in 1964 (in Italy), the good people of Rome were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Blood And Black Lace. Written (in part) and directed by Mario Bava, the film starred Cameron Mitchell, Eva Bartok, Arianna Gorini, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A masked, shadowy killer brutally murders the models of a scandalous fashion house in Rome."
-- EZ
On this day in 1964 (in Italy), the good people of Rome were treated to the exclusive theatrical premiere of Blood And Black Lace. Written (in part) and directed by Mario Bava, the film starred Cameron Mitchell, Eva Bartok, Arianna Gorini, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A masked, shadowy killer brutally murders the models of a scandalous fashion house in Rome."
-- EZ
- Published on
Stardate 04.10.2026.B: Happy Anniversary - 2007's 'The Breastford Wives' Turns 19 Years Young Today!
So many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 2007 (across America), SciFi got sexy when a memorable SciFi product of the 1970's -- The Stepford Wives -- got an Adult-themed makeover released on video, and it was called The Breastford Wives. Written and directed by Jim Wynorski, the film starred Glori-Anne Gilbert, Taylor Wayne, Barbie Bennett, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Rob and Laura move to the peaceful town of Breastford and soon find the women are insatiably sex-crazed."
-- EZ
On this day in 2007 (across America), SciFi got sexy when a memorable SciFi product of the 1970's -- The Stepford Wives -- got an Adult-themed makeover released on video, and it was called The Breastford Wives. Written and directed by Jim Wynorski, the film starred Glori-Anne Gilbert, Taylor Wayne, Barbie Bennett, and others. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Rob and Laura move to the peaceful town of Breastford and soon find the women are insatiably sex-crazed."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
The Breastford Wives (2007) is a softcore parody film directed by Jim Wynorski that reimagines The Stepford Wives with a kinky, comedic twist. The plot follows a couple, Rob and Laura, who move to a town where the local women are transformed into sex-crazed robots by a device invented by Mayor Doc Brady.
Key details about the 2007 film include:
The film is generally characterized as a fun, campy, and sexually driven spoof that stays true to the parody concept.
The Breastford Wives (2007) is a softcore parody film directed by Jim Wynorski that reimagines The Stepford Wives with a kinky, comedic twist. The plot follows a couple, Rob and Laura, who move to a town where the local women are transformed into sex-crazed robots by a device invented by Mayor Doc Brady.
Key details about the 2007 film include:
- Genre & Style: It is a softcore "jigglefest" parody, often cited as typical late-night premium cable fare, focusing on humor and parody alongside its erotic content.
- Plot: The story focuses on the Breastford Women's Association, which welcomes the couple, only for the couple to discover the town's strange, robotic secret.
- Cast: The film stars Taylor Wane, Glori-Anne Gilbert, Frankie Cullen, and Frank Harper.
- Production: Directed by cult filmmaker Jim Wynorski, known for similar low-budget, adult-themed comedies.
The film is generally characterized as a fun, campy, and sexually driven spoof that stays true to the parody concept.
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So many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Mega Piranha made audiences fear not only going back into the water but also the air! Written and directed (in part) by Eric Forsberg, the film starred Paul Logan, popstar-turned-actress Tiffany, Barry Williams, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mutant strain of giant ferocious piranha escape from the Amazon and eat their way toward Florida."
-- EZ
On this day in 2010 (in the U.S.), the SciFi/Telefilm Mega Piranha made audiences fear not only going back into the water but also the air! Written and directed (in part) by Eric Forsberg, the film starred Paul Logan, popstar-turned-actress Tiffany, Barry Williams, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A mutant strain of giant ferocious piranha escape from the Amazon and eat their way toward Florida."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Mega Piranha (2010) is a low-budget, sci-fi horror film produced by The Asylum, released as a mockbuster of Piranha 3D. It follows a mutant, fast-growing strain of giant piranhas that escape an isolated tributary in Venezuela, killing everything in their path while heading to Florida. The film is known for its absurd action scenes and bad CGI.
Key Aspects of the Movie:
Mega Piranha was released directly to television on April 10, 2010.
Mega Piranha (2010) is a low-budget, sci-fi horror film produced by The Asylum, released as a mockbuster of Piranha 3D. It follows a mutant, fast-growing strain of giant piranhas that escape an isolated tributary in Venezuela, killing everything in their path while heading to Florida. The film is known for its absurd action scenes and bad CGI.
Key Aspects of the Movie:
- Plot: Genetically modified Sarasomas Gigantis—created as a food source experiment gone wrong—multiply rapidly and grow up to 30 feet long, developing double hearts and thick skin.
- Characters: The story features special agent Jason Fitch (Paul Logan) and scientist Sarah Monroe (Tiffany) who try to stop the fish.
- Action & Absurdity: The film is notorious for scenes such as Fitch performing a "bicycle kick" on a jumping piranha, bullets causing massive explosions, and the fish destroying military ships and helicopters.
- Production: Directed by Eric Forsberg, it is a quintessential "B-movie" with intentionally over-the-top, low-cost CGI effects. Some scenes feature recycled footage from other Asylum movies.
- Reviews: It is generally considered a "so-bad-it's-good" film by fans of monster movies, often praised for its consistent, non-stop absurdity.
Mega Piranha was released directly to television on April 10, 2010.
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So many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 1971 (in the U.S.), that sterling mecca known as New York City, New York played host for an exclusive theatrical premiere engagement of The Mephisto Waltz. Directed by Paul Wendkos from a story by Ben Maddow and Fred Mustard Stewart, the film starred Alan Alda, Jacqueline Bisset, Barbara Parkins, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An old, dying satanist arranges to transfer his soul into the body of a young concert pianist."
For the record:
At the 2018 Saturn Awards, an all-new home video release of The Mephisto Waltz received a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD / Blu-ray Classic Film Release.'
-- EZ
On this day in 1971 (in the U.S.), that sterling mecca known as New York City, New York played host for an exclusive theatrical premiere engagement of The Mephisto Waltz. Directed by Paul Wendkos from a story by Ben Maddow and Fred Mustard Stewart, the film starred Alan Alda, Jacqueline Bisset, Barbara Parkins, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"An old, dying satanist arranges to transfer his soul into the body of a young concert pianist."
For the record:
At the 2018 Saturn Awards, an all-new home video release of The Mephisto Waltz received a nomination in the category of 'Best DVD / Blu-ray Classic Film Release.'
-- EZ
From Google.com:
The Mephisto Waltz (1971) is a stylish, psychological occult horror film starring Alan Alda, Jacqueline Bisset, and Curt Jürgens. Directed by Paul Wendkos, the film follows a dying Satanist pianist who transfers his soul into the body of a younger journalist and aspiring pianist (Alda), leading to a terrifying nightmare for his wife (Bisset).
Key Aspects of the Film:
Legacy:
The Mephisto Waltz (1971) is a stylish, psychological occult horror film starring Alan Alda, Jacqueline Bisset, and Curt Jürgens. Directed by Paul Wendkos, the film follows a dying Satanist pianist who transfers his soul into the body of a younger journalist and aspiring pianist (Alda), leading to a terrifying nightmare for his wife (Bisset).
Key Aspects of the Film:
- Plot: Duncan Ely (Jürgens), a virtuoso pianist and Satanist, uses dark magic to possess Myles Clarkson (Alda) to continue his life and career.
- Performance & Tone: The film is characterized by its "giallo" sensibility and "darkened brightness" cinematography, focusing on creeping dread rather than jump scares. It is often compared to Rosemary's Baby.
- Cast: The film features an acclaimed performance from Jacqueline Bisset as Paula Clarkson, who navigates the sinister supernatural plot.
- Production: The movie is noted for its swinging 1970s Los Angeles aesthetic, a strong thriller script, and a solid score.
Legacy:
- It is considered a "worthwhile curio" of 1970s horror, pre-dating The Exorcist in its exploration of occultism.
- It is sometimes considered a "must-see" for fans of arthouse-influenced horror from that era.
- The movie is currently available on various streaming platforms.
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So many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), Blood Craft dripped it bloody goodness into the home video marketplace with its general release. Written (in part) and directed by James Cullen Bressack, the film starred Madeleine Wade, Augie Duke, Michael Welch, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two sisters who suffered abuse as children at the hands of their sadistic father decide, after his death, to use witchcraft to bring his spirit back to get revenge."
-- EZ
On this day in 2019 (in the U.S.), Blood Craft dripped it bloody goodness into the home video marketplace with its general release. Written (in part) and directed by James Cullen Bressack, the film starred Madeleine Wade, Augie Duke, Michael Welch, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two sisters who suffered abuse as children at the hands of their sadistic father decide, after his death, to use witchcraft to bring his spirit back to get revenge."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Blood Craft (2019) is a low-budget American supernatural horror thriller directed by James Cullen Bressack. The film centers on two sisters, Grace and Serena, who use witchcraft to resurrect their sadistic, abusive father after his death to exact revenge for their traumatic childhood.
Plot Overview
Cast and Crew
Reception and Style
Blood Craft was released on-demand and on streaming platforms (such as Amazon Prime) on April 9, 2019.
Blood Craft (2019) is a low-budget American supernatural horror thriller directed by James Cullen Bressack. The film centers on two sisters, Grace and Serena, who use witchcraft to resurrect their sadistic, abusive father after his death to exact revenge for their traumatic childhood.
Plot Overview
- Synopsis: After their abusive father passes away, the sisters return to their childhood home. They utilize a spell book to bring his spirit back, intending to torture him, but their plan takes dangerous and unexpected turns.
- Themes: The film delves into heavy themes of trauma, revenge, and the lasting effects of child abuse and incest.
- Structure: The narrative alternates between the sisters' present-day actions and flashbacks to their traumatic past.
Cast and Crew
- Director: James Cullen Bressack.
- Writers: Madeleine Wade and James Cullen Bressack.
- Key Cast:
- Madeleine Wade as Grace (also co-writer).
- Augie Duke as Serena.
- Dave Sheridan as the abusive Father.
- Michael Welch as Tyler.
- Dominique Swain.
Reception and Style
- Tone: It is described as an uncomfortable and dark, "no holds barred" horror film, often focusing on intense emotional and physical trauma.
- Visuals & Score: The film has been noted for good cinematography that uses dim, moody lighting to create an atmosphere of dread. It features a score by Chris Ridenhour.
- Critique: Reviews are mixed. Some critics found the acting "passable" or "stiff" and the pacing slow, describing it as a "low budget" effort. Others complimented the performances of the leads and considered it a strong indie thriller.
- Trigger Warnings: Reviews advise that the film contains explicit references to child sexual abuse, incest, and graphic violence.
Blood Craft was released on-demand and on streaming platforms (such as Amazon Prime) on April 9, 2019.
- Published on
scifinery
So that you’re not caught unawares …
According to a quick search of Google.com, the very first depiction of a laser or ray-based weapon took place all the way back in 1914 aboard the Silent Era adventure serial released under the name The Exploits Of Elaine.
IMDB.com reports that it was produced by the Wharton Company, and it was released theatrically by the Eclectic Film Company (1914), Pathé Exchange (1915), Sunrise Silents (2004), and Serial Squadron (date unknown). Directed by Louis J. Gasnier, George B. Seitz, Leopold Wharton, and Theodore Wharton, the script was adapted from the Arthur B. Reeve novel (“The Exploits Of Elaine”) by Charles W. Goddard, George B. Seitz, and Basil Dickey. The project starred Pearl White, Arnold Daly, Creighton Hale, Raymond Owens, Sheldon Lewis, and others.
Also according to our friends at IMDB.com, here’s the plot summary:
“With the help of a private detective, Elaine tries to catch the masked criminal mastermind The Clutching Hand, who has murdered her father.”
According to information available on Wikipedia.org, Exploits worked as your typical motion picture serial, utilizing last-minute cliffhangers to generate audience interest in coming back next week for the latest and greatest installment. However, a great deal of the serial’s science was rather elementary for the time and very quickly outdated as the days and/or months went by. This being Hollywood (after all), the use of a ‘Death Ray’ – dubbed the ‘F-Ray’ in the script – has yet to exactly appear in reality, perhaps making it little more than the invention of a deadly device that would become a genre trope in the years ahead. Indeed, 1916’s The Intrigue featured what writers called an X-ray gun in its action while 1916’s The Iron Claw employed something simply named an electric ray. It wouldn’t be until the 1930’s that ray guns truly became iconic with the weapons’ inclusion in such studio efforts as Flash Gordon (1936) and Buck Rogers (1939); but those are clearly stories for another time and another place if not another generation of viewers entirely.
Actress Pearl White often spoke about her time reigning as the “Queen of the Serials,” most often citing how she performed her own stunts and even grew to the point of being reasonably fearless. Still, it would seem that she was largely unaware of Exploits being the first screen depiction of death rays and the like; so perhaps no great buzz was ever generated about how the flick holds a place of some significance in genre entertainment. Of course, none of this is meant to detract from her contribution to filmdom as she’s definitely remembered as one of the first action heroines capable of dealing with certain jeopardy on the silver screen. Simply put, learning how to fly and drive fast made greater impressions on the actress, so – as they say – to each his own.
Additionally, it’s interesting that Exploits was popular enough with audiences that it inspired not one but two sequels (both of which appear to presently be lost to history). 1915 saw both The New Exploits Of Elaine and The Romance Of Elaine continuing the champion’s story; and this only further established White as the industry choice to serialized content. Who knew that ladies could be so near the center of some big budget affairs more than 100 years ago? Certainly not the class of talent who continues to insist that women have always taken second seat especially in screen thrillers.
It’s also worth noting that, in 1994, the serial was inducted into the U.S.’s National Film Registry, that organization which seeks to preserve projects that had demonstrated a lasting aesthetic contribution to the medium.
-- EZ
According to a quick search of Google.com, the very first depiction of a laser or ray-based weapon took place all the way back in 1914 aboard the Silent Era adventure serial released under the name The Exploits Of Elaine.
IMDB.com reports that it was produced by the Wharton Company, and it was released theatrically by the Eclectic Film Company (1914), Pathé Exchange (1915), Sunrise Silents (2004), and Serial Squadron (date unknown). Directed by Louis J. Gasnier, George B. Seitz, Leopold Wharton, and Theodore Wharton, the script was adapted from the Arthur B. Reeve novel (“The Exploits Of Elaine”) by Charles W. Goddard, George B. Seitz, and Basil Dickey. The project starred Pearl White, Arnold Daly, Creighton Hale, Raymond Owens, Sheldon Lewis, and others.
Also according to our friends at IMDB.com, here’s the plot summary:
“With the help of a private detective, Elaine tries to catch the masked criminal mastermind The Clutching Hand, who has murdered her father.”
According to information available on Wikipedia.org, Exploits worked as your typical motion picture serial, utilizing last-minute cliffhangers to generate audience interest in coming back next week for the latest and greatest installment. However, a great deal of the serial’s science was rather elementary for the time and very quickly outdated as the days and/or months went by. This being Hollywood (after all), the use of a ‘Death Ray’ – dubbed the ‘F-Ray’ in the script – has yet to exactly appear in reality, perhaps making it little more than the invention of a deadly device that would become a genre trope in the years ahead. Indeed, 1916’s The Intrigue featured what writers called an X-ray gun in its action while 1916’s The Iron Claw employed something simply named an electric ray. It wouldn’t be until the 1930’s that ray guns truly became iconic with the weapons’ inclusion in such studio efforts as Flash Gordon (1936) and Buck Rogers (1939); but those are clearly stories for another time and another place if not another generation of viewers entirely.
Actress Pearl White often spoke about her time reigning as the “Queen of the Serials,” most often citing how she performed her own stunts and even grew to the point of being reasonably fearless. Still, it would seem that she was largely unaware of Exploits being the first screen depiction of death rays and the like; so perhaps no great buzz was ever generated about how the flick holds a place of some significance in genre entertainment. Of course, none of this is meant to detract from her contribution to filmdom as she’s definitely remembered as one of the first action heroines capable of dealing with certain jeopardy on the silver screen. Simply put, learning how to fly and drive fast made greater impressions on the actress, so – as they say – to each his own.
Additionally, it’s interesting that Exploits was popular enough with audiences that it inspired not one but two sequels (both of which appear to presently be lost to history). 1915 saw both The New Exploits Of Elaine and The Romance Of Elaine continuing the champion’s story; and this only further established White as the industry choice to serialized content. Who knew that ladies could be so near the center of some big budget affairs more than 100 years ago? Certainly not the class of talent who continues to insist that women have always taken second seat especially in screen thrillers.
It’s also worth noting that, in 1994, the serial was inducted into the U.S.’s National Film Registry, that organization which seeks to preserve projects that had demonstrated a lasting aesthetic contribution to the medium.
-- EZ
- Published on
press release
On May 26, the blockbuster medieval adventure Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves arrives on 4K UHD. The legend of the English nobleman forced into outlaw life shines under the direction of Kevin Reynolds (Waterworld). The limited edition release features brand new 4K restorations of both the theatrical and extended cuts from the original negative by Arrow Films, hours of special features, and newly commissioned extras.
Robin of Locksley (Kevin Costner, The Untouchables) follows King Richard the Lionheart (Sean Connery, Goldfinger) on a crusade to the Holy Land, only to end up imprisoned in Jerusalem. After years behind bars, Robin escapes with the help of Azeem Edin Bashir Al Bakir (Morgan Freeman, The Shawshank Redemption) and returns to England. Things have gone bad in Robin’s absence. The evil Sheriff of Nottingham (Alan Rickman, Die Hard) rules as a tyrant, dreaming of wearing the crown. Alongside his vicious cousin Guy of Gisborne (Michael Wincott, The Crow), he steals from the poor and the defiant rich alike, including Robin’s father (Brian Blessed, Flash Gordon). The Sheriff also sets his sights on marrying Marian (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Scarface).
Special features include 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation of both cuts in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible); original uncompressed stereo and DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround audio; optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing; an audio commentary with director Kevin Reynolds and actor Kevin Costner; an audio commentary with actors Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater, and others; a multi-part documentary featuring interviews with director of photography Douglas Milsome, editor Peter Boyle, and members of the creative team; an archival documentary hosted by Pierce Brosnan; archival 1991 interviews with Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Christian Slater, and Alan Rickman; Bryan Adams’ “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” performance at Slane Castle, Ireland; music soundtrack cues; the theatrical trailer; TV spots, an image gallery; a collectors’ perfect-bound booklet; two double-sided fold-out posters; and six postcard-sized artcards.
Robin of Locksley (Kevin Costner, The Untouchables) follows King Richard the Lionheart (Sean Connery, Goldfinger) on a crusade to the Holy Land, only to end up imprisoned in Jerusalem. After years behind bars, Robin escapes with the help of Azeem Edin Bashir Al Bakir (Morgan Freeman, The Shawshank Redemption) and returns to England. Things have gone bad in Robin’s absence. The evil Sheriff of Nottingham (Alan Rickman, Die Hard) rules as a tyrant, dreaming of wearing the crown. Alongside his vicious cousin Guy of Gisborne (Michael Wincott, The Crow), he steals from the poor and the defiant rich alike, including Robin’s father (Brian Blessed, Flash Gordon). The Sheriff also sets his sights on marrying Marian (Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Scarface).
Special features include 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation of both cuts in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible); original uncompressed stereo and DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround audio; optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing; an audio commentary with director Kevin Reynolds and actor Kevin Costner; an audio commentary with actors Morgan Freeman, Christian Slater, and others; a multi-part documentary featuring interviews with director of photography Douglas Milsome, editor Peter Boyle, and members of the creative team; an archival documentary hosted by Pierce Brosnan; archival 1991 interviews with Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Christian Slater, and Alan Rickman; Bryan Adams’ “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” performance at Slane Castle, Ireland; music soundtrack cues; the theatrical trailer; TV spots, an image gallery; a collectors’ perfect-bound booklet; two double-sided fold-out posters; and six postcard-sized artcards.