- Published on
site update
so many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 2021 (in Canada), The Retreat enjoyed its initial theatrical release. (FYI: IMDB.com also indicates that the film enjoyed a simultanous U.S. release via the Information Superhighway.) Directed by Pat Mills from a story by Alyson Richards, the film starred Tommie-Amber Pirie, Sarah Allen, Aaron Ashmore, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lesbian couple with a rocky relationship go to a pre-wedding retreat and end up fighting for their lives when a group of militant serial killers tries to murder them."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Retreat scored a handful of nominations in 2022 from the Canadian Screen Awards.
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A lesbian couple with a rocky relationship go to a pre-wedding retreat and end up fighting for their lives when a group of militant serial killers tries to murder them."
For the record:
To the film's credit, The Retreat scored a handful of nominations in 2022 from the Canadian Screen Awards.
-- EZ
From Google.com:
The Retreat (2021) is a Canadian horror-slasher film directed by Pat Mills. It follows Renee (Tommie-Amber Pirie) and Valerie (Sarah Allen), a lesbian couple who go to a remote cabin for a romantic weekend, only to discover they are being hunted by a group of militant extremists who livestream gruesome killings for profit. [1, 2]
Plot Summary
Renee and Valerie travel to a secluded country getaway, aiming to use the trip as a relationship litmus test. Upon arriving at their destination, they discover their friends are missing and their peaceful vacation is quickly upended. They realize they are being stalked and targeted by a ring of militant extremists that use isolated areas to kidnap, torture, and murder gay people. [1, 3, 4]
Themes and Style
The film subverts the traditional horror trope of the "bury your gays" or helpless LGBTQ+ victims. Instead, it empowers the protagonists as they utilize their wits to fight back against their captors, blending "backwoods brutality" with a queer revenge thriller. The movie also serves as a sharp social commentary on the dangers and toxic bigotry faced by the LGBTQ+ community in rural, isolated areas. [1, 2, 3, 5, 6]
Details and Where to Watch
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Retreat_(2021_film)
[2] https://www.facebook.com/xyzfilms/posts/retreat-will-have-its-world-premiere-at-the-50th-tiff-this-year-director-ted-eva/1281265333704878/
[3] https://www.queerhorrormovies.com/the-retreat-2021-review/
[4] https://www.facebook.com/slashfilm/posts/cillian-murphy-and-thandiwe-newton-play-a-couple-whose-remote-vacation-turns-ter/1444863443967146/
[5] https://moriareviews.com/horror/retreat-2021.htm
[6] https://www.moviejawn.com/home/2021/5/23/the-retreat-review
The Retreat (2021) is a Canadian horror-slasher film directed by Pat Mills. It follows Renee (Tommie-Amber Pirie) and Valerie (Sarah Allen), a lesbian couple who go to a remote cabin for a romantic weekend, only to discover they are being hunted by a group of militant extremists who livestream gruesome killings for profit. [1, 2]
Plot Summary
Renee and Valerie travel to a secluded country getaway, aiming to use the trip as a relationship litmus test. Upon arriving at their destination, they discover their friends are missing and their peaceful vacation is quickly upended. They realize they are being stalked and targeted by a ring of militant extremists that use isolated areas to kidnap, torture, and murder gay people. [1, 3, 4]
Themes and Style
The film subverts the traditional horror trope of the "bury your gays" or helpless LGBTQ+ victims. Instead, it empowers the protagonists as they utilize their wits to fight back against their captors, blending "backwoods brutality" with a queer revenge thriller. The movie also serves as a sharp social commentary on the dangers and toxic bigotry faced by the LGBTQ+ community in rural, isolated areas. [1, 2, 3, 5, 6]
Details and Where to Watch
- Release Date: May 21, 2021
- Director: Pat Mills
- Starring: Tommie-Amber Pirie, Sarah Allen, Aaron Ashmore, and Rossif Sutherland
- Availability: You can find viewing options and ratings for the film on IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes. [1, 2]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Retreat_(2021_film)
[2] https://www.facebook.com/xyzfilms/posts/retreat-will-have-its-world-premiere-at-the-50th-tiff-this-year-director-ted-eva/1281265333704878/
[3] https://www.queerhorrormovies.com/the-retreat-2021-review/
[4] https://www.facebook.com/slashfilm/posts/cillian-murphy-and-thandiwe-newton-play-a-couple-whose-remote-vacation-turns-ter/1444863443967146/
[5] https://moriareviews.com/horror/retreat-2021.htm
[6] https://www.moviejawn.com/home/2021/5/23/the-retreat-review
- Published on
site update
So many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 1975 (in the U.S.), the big city of El Dorado, Arkansas played host for the big screen theatrical premiere of Wheeler (aka Psycho From Texas). Written and directed (in part) by Jim Feazell, the film starred John King III, Candy Dee, Tommy Lamey, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A drifter/hitman is hired by a local business man to kidnap the local oil baron. The hitman had been reared in squalor, suffering the abuses of his whoring mama. When the baron escapes his assistant must chase him while the hitman takes care of a few loose ends."
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A drifter/hitman is hired by a local business man to kidnap the local oil baron. The hitman had been reared in squalor, suffering the abuses of his whoring mama. When the baron escapes his assistant must chase him while the hitman takes care of a few loose ends."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Psycho from Texas (originally released as Wheeler) is a low-budget 1975 American crime-horror film directed by Jim Feazell and Jack Collins. It follows a knife-wielding, mother-obsessed drifter who is hired by a local businessman to kidnap a wealthy oil baron, ultimately spiraling into a chaotic, sleazy grindhouse thriller. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Plot
A local businessman hires an unhinged, rootless drifter named Wheeler (John King III) to kidnap a wealthy retired oil baron named Bill Phillips for ransom. Driven mad by childhood abuse from his mother, Wheeler is a sadistic killer with a penchant for attacking women. The kidnapping goes awry when the baron escapes, leaving his dimwitted associate, Slick, and the erratic Wheeler to track him down while tying up other deadly loose ends in the town. [1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]
Production & Style
Key Details
To read the full cast, crew list, or dive into user reviews for this cult classic, you can check out the IMDb Page for Psycho from Texas. [2]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psycho_from_Texas
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/badMovies/comments/19b8bsj/wheeler_1975_aka_psycho_from_texas/
[3] https://www.grindhousedatabase.com/index.php/Psycho_From_Texas
[4] https://bandsaboutmovies.com/2021/10/29/psycho-from-texas-1975/
[5] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082955/
[6] https://letterboxd.com/film/psycho-from-texas/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082955/fullcredits/
[8] http://www.dvdexotica.com/2019/08/controversial-blus-psycho-from-texas.html
[9] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082955/parentalguide/
Psycho from Texas (originally released as Wheeler) is a low-budget 1975 American crime-horror film directed by Jim Feazell and Jack Collins. It follows a knife-wielding, mother-obsessed drifter who is hired by a local businessman to kidnap a wealthy oil baron, ultimately spiraling into a chaotic, sleazy grindhouse thriller. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Plot
A local businessman hires an unhinged, rootless drifter named Wheeler (John King III) to kidnap a wealthy retired oil baron named Bill Phillips for ransom. Driven mad by childhood abuse from his mother, Wheeler is a sadistic killer with a penchant for attacking women. The kidnapping goes awry when the baron escapes, leaving his dimwitted associate, Slick, and the erratic Wheeler to track him down while tying up other deadly loose ends in the town. [1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]
Production & Style
- Budget and Filming: Shot on a tiny budget, the film features regional "hicksploitation" aesthetics, choppy editing, and erratic acting. It was primarily filmed in and around El Dorado, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
- Influences: The movie bears elements of a true-crime story, loosely drawing from an uncredited 1967 kidnapping of a man in El Dorado, Texas.
- The Linnea Quigley Connection: The film features one of the earliest screen appearances of cult B-movie actress Linnea Quigley. A few years after the initial 1975 release, an extended scene was filmed and added for VHS/rerelease, featuring her as a barmaid.
- Promotional Stunt: When the movie premiered in New York City, the filmmakers utilized a loudspeaker-equipped truck plastered with massive banners, rolling through Times Square to shock unwary pedestrians. [1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
Key Details
- Release Year: 1975 (originally titled Wheeler)
- Directors: Jim Feazell and Jack Collins
- Starring: John King III (as Wheeler), Herschel Mays (as the oil baron), and Tommy Lamey (as Slick) [1, 7]
To read the full cast, crew list, or dive into user reviews for this cult classic, you can check out the IMDb Page for Psycho from Texas. [2]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psycho_from_Texas
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/badMovies/comments/19b8bsj/wheeler_1975_aka_psycho_from_texas/
[3] https://www.grindhousedatabase.com/index.php/Psycho_From_Texas
[4] https://bandsaboutmovies.com/2021/10/29/psycho-from-texas-1975/
[5] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082955/
[6] https://letterboxd.com/film/psycho-from-texas/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082955/fullcredits/
[8] http://www.dvdexotica.com/2019/08/controversial-blus-psycho-from-texas.html
[9] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082955/parentalguide/
- Published on
site update
so many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 1979 (in West Germany), audiences were off and running, heading to the nearest cineplex to take in the gory delight that was Spare Parts (aka Fleisch). Written and directed by Rainer Erler, the film starred Jutta Spiedel, Wolf Roth, Herbert Herrmann, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A honeymooning couple stay at a hotel in New Mexico. It all seems normal until an ambulance pulls up and takes the husband away. The wife, with the help of a truck driver, finds the awful secret to the hotel and the ambulance service."
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A honeymooning couple stay at a hotel in New Mexico. It all seems normal until an ambulance pulls up and takes the husband away. The wife, with the help of a truck driver, finds the awful secret to the hotel and the ambulance service."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Fleisch (internationally released as Spare Parts) is a 1979 German science-thriller directed by Rainer Erler. The cult classic follows a newlywed couple on their honeymoon in the American Southwest whose trip turns into a terrifying fight for survival against an international black-market organ harvesting ring. [1, 2, 3]
Key Details & Plot
Cultural Impact
Written by Erler himself, the film is considered a trailblazer for the "science thriller" genre in Germany. Despite being a made-for-television film, its release coincided with an acute shortage of donor organs in West Germany. The film’s dark, highly provocative subject matter sparked a fierce public debate across the country upon its release. [2]
Reviews and Legacy
While it has sometimes been criticized for its slow pacing, the film is praised for offering a unique, neo-western visual take on the United States through a foreign lens. It has since gained a loyal cult following. [1, 3, 4, 6]
You can find more information or explore the film's production history via the IMDb Profile or review the historical screening notes on the Berlinale Program Page. [2, 7]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fleisch_(film)
[2] https://www.berlinale.de/en/2025/programme/202516822.html
[3] https://filmblitz.org/fleisch-1979/
[4] https://eofftvreview.wordpress.com/2019/10/14/spare-parts-1979/
[5] https://outnow.ch/en/Movies/1979/Fleisch/Review/
[6] https://www.imdb.com/fr/title/tt0079160/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079160/
Fleisch (internationally released as Spare Parts) is a 1979 German science-thriller directed by Rainer Erler. The cult classic follows a newlywed couple on their honeymoon in the American Southwest whose trip turns into a terrifying fight for survival against an international black-market organ harvesting ring. [1, 2, 3]
Key Details & Plot
- The Premise: German students Monica (Jutta Speidel) and Mike (Herbert Herrmann) check into a dirt-cheap motel in New Mexico. Shortly after, Mike is mysteriously abducted by two men posing as paramedics in an ambulance.
- The Investigation: Monica narrowly escapes and, fearing the local police, teams up with a good-natured truck driver named Bill (Wolf Roth) to track down the ambulance.
- The Twist: Their cross-country pursuit leads them to New York City, where they uncover a sinister conspiracy operating in a "clinic" that uses young, healthy abducted victims as living organ donors for wealthy clients. [2, 3, 4, 5]
Cultural Impact
Written by Erler himself, the film is considered a trailblazer for the "science thriller" genre in Germany. Despite being a made-for-television film, its release coincided with an acute shortage of donor organs in West Germany. The film’s dark, highly provocative subject matter sparked a fierce public debate across the country upon its release. [2]
Reviews and Legacy
While it has sometimes been criticized for its slow pacing, the film is praised for offering a unique, neo-western visual take on the United States through a foreign lens. It has since gained a loyal cult following. [1, 3, 4, 6]
You can find more information or explore the film's production history via the IMDb Profile or review the historical screening notes on the Berlinale Program Page. [2, 7]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fleisch_(film)
[2] https://www.berlinale.de/en/2025/programme/202516822.html
[3] https://filmblitz.org/fleisch-1979/
[4] https://eofftvreview.wordpress.com/2019/10/14/spare-parts-1979/
[5] https://outnow.ch/en/Movies/1979/Fleisch/Review/
[6] https://www.imdb.com/fr/title/tt0079160/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079160/
- Published on
in memoriam
Readers, I've said before that one of the downsides to trying to keep my fingers on the pulse of All Things Genre is having to report on the fact that one of our collective heroes has passed. I do so entirely in hopes that shining a bit of light on those who've come before pushes each of us to go back and look at some of these older and sometimes forgotten shows and movies. There's an incredible catalogue of stuff out there just waiting to thrill and chill you if you're willing to look for it, and that will always be the position of SciFiHistory.Net so long as I'm the guy in charge.
In that regard, I just noticed word reaching the World Wide Web on the passing of actor Michael Keating. For those who didn't know him, Keating played the role of 'Vila Restal' aboard the BBC's Blake's 7 from back in the day; while I personally have only seen bits and pieces of the program, I've been assured by a great many fans that it's something I should definitely keep on my bucket list of shows to re-discover. Hopefully, the property will get a reasonably-priced US release at some point in my lifetime so that I can do so as I'd love nothing better.
Keating's resume is a bit slim. IMDB.com reports just over thirty different screen roles. Still, I've noticed in a quick glance that a solid number of them are in subjects that tickle my fancy. I see stuff like Doomwatch and, of course, Doctor Who in there -- along with a great stretch of voice acting toward the latter half of his career -- and that tells me that the actor arguably found a niche ... and that niche was most certainly in the Realms of the Fantastic that excites so many of us. If nothing else, that also informs me that we lost one near and dear to genre circles in many ways.
Our warmest prayers are extended to the family, friends, and fans of Michael Keating.
May he rest in peace ...
-- EZ
In that regard, I just noticed word reaching the World Wide Web on the passing of actor Michael Keating. For those who didn't know him, Keating played the role of 'Vila Restal' aboard the BBC's Blake's 7 from back in the day; while I personally have only seen bits and pieces of the program, I've been assured by a great many fans that it's something I should definitely keep on my bucket list of shows to re-discover. Hopefully, the property will get a reasonably-priced US release at some point in my lifetime so that I can do so as I'd love nothing better.
Keating's resume is a bit slim. IMDB.com reports just over thirty different screen roles. Still, I've noticed in a quick glance that a solid number of them are in subjects that tickle my fancy. I see stuff like Doomwatch and, of course, Doctor Who in there -- along with a great stretch of voice acting toward the latter half of his career -- and that tells me that the actor arguably found a niche ... and that niche was most certainly in the Realms of the Fantastic that excites so many of us. If nothing else, that also informs me that we lost one near and dear to genre circles in many ways.
Our warmest prayers are extended to the family, friends, and fans of Michael Keating.
May he rest in peace ...
-- EZ
- Published on
site update
so many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 1991 (in the U.S.), the wide, wide world of theatrical prophecy got another chapter when Omen IV: The Awakening enjoyed its broadcast television premiere. Directed by Jorge Montesi and Dominique Othenin-Girard form a story by Harvey Bernhard, Brian Taggert, and David Seltzer, the film starred Faye Grant, Michael Woods, Michael Lerner, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two attorneys adopt a mysterious orphan girl as their daughter, unaware she is the new Antichrist, next in line to Damien Thorn."
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Two attorneys adopt a mysterious orphan girl as their daughter, unaware she is the new Antichrist, next in line to Damien Thorn."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Omen IV: The Awakening is a 1991 supernatural horror television film directed by Jorge Montesi and Dominique Othenin-Girard. Serving as the fourth installment of the original Omen franchise, the movie shifts focus from Damien Thorn to a female successor. [1, 2, 3]
Plot Overview
The story follows a wealthy Virginia congressman, Gene York, and his attorney wife, Karen (played by Michael Woods and Faye Grant), who adopt a mysterious orphan girl named Delia. Unbeknownst to them, Delia is the biological daughter of Damien Thorn. As she grows older, bizarre and lethal accidents follow her everywhere. Karen's mounting paranoia and subsequent pregnancy eventually uncover a shocking, supernatural conspiracy involving Delia's true origins. [1, 4, 5, 6, 7]
Key Details
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omen_IV:_The_Awakening
[2] https://weminoredinfilm.com/2018/04/06/franchise-review-reaching-rock-bottom-with-omen-iv-the-awakening/
[3] https://moviedatabase.fandom.com/wiki/Omen_IV:_The_Awakening
[4] https://www.amazon.com/Omen-IV-Awakening-Faye-Grant/dp/B0009X75HY
[5] https://horrorcritic.com/omen-iv-the-awakening-reviewed-by-lisa-marie-bowman/
[6] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102585/plotsummary/
[7] https://user.xmission.com/~tyranist/horror/reviews/o/Omen4.html
[8] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/omen_iv_the_awakening
Omen IV: The Awakening is a 1991 supernatural horror television film directed by Jorge Montesi and Dominique Othenin-Girard. Serving as the fourth installment of the original Omen franchise, the movie shifts focus from Damien Thorn to a female successor. [1, 2, 3]
Plot Overview
The story follows a wealthy Virginia congressman, Gene York, and his attorney wife, Karen (played by Michael Woods and Faye Grant), who adopt a mysterious orphan girl named Delia. Unbeknownst to them, Delia is the biological daughter of Damien Thorn. As she grows older, bizarre and lethal accidents follow her everywhere. Karen's mounting paranoia and subsequent pregnancy eventually uncover a shocking, supernatural conspiracy involving Delia's true origins. [1, 4, 5, 6, 7]
Key Details
- Release Date: Premiered on the FOX Network on May 20, 1991.
- Starring: Faye Grant, Michael Woods, Michael Lerner, and Asia Vieira as the young, chilling Delia.
- Notable Twists: The film features a bizarre twist revealing that Delia is not the Antichrist herself, but rather the vessel and protector for her twin brother, who is Satan's reincarnation. [1, 2, 3, 6, 8]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omen_IV:_The_Awakening
[2] https://weminoredinfilm.com/2018/04/06/franchise-review-reaching-rock-bottom-with-omen-iv-the-awakening/
[3] https://moviedatabase.fandom.com/wiki/Omen_IV:_The_Awakening
[4] https://www.amazon.com/Omen-IV-Awakening-Faye-Grant/dp/B0009X75HY
[5] https://horrorcritic.com/omen-iv-the-awakening-reviewed-by-lisa-marie-bowman/
[6] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102585/plotsummary/
[7] https://user.xmission.com/~tyranist/horror/reviews/o/Omen4.html
[8] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/omen_iv_the_awakening
- Published on
site update
so many movies ... so much to celebrate!!!
On this day in 2008 (in the U.S.), Deadwater (aka Black Ops) submerged from the murky depths to celebrate its initial release on home video. Written (in part) and directed by Roel Reiné, the film starred Lance Henriksen, James Russo, Katherine Randolph, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a battleship deployed to the Persian Gulf for black-op interrogations falls silent, a Marine task force is sent to investigate, only to find everyone aboard slaughtered."
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a battleship deployed to the Persian Gulf for black-op interrogations falls silent, a Marine task force is sent to investigate, only to find everyone aboard slaughtered."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Deadwater (also known as Black Ops or Nazi Dawn) is a 2008 direct-to-video supernatural horror and action film directed by Roel Reiné. The movie follows an elite Marine task force investigating a reactivated World War II battleship in the Persian Gulf, only to find the crew slaughtered by a mysterious, supernatural force. [1, 2, 3]
Key Details
Synopsis
A decommissioned WWII-era ship is secretly deployed to the Persian Gulf to act as a military black-site for interrogations. When the ship goes completely radio silent, a specialized team of Marines led by Colonel John Willets (Lance Henriksen) is dispatched to investigate. Upon boarding, the team discovers the crew brutally murdered and must determine if the culprits are human terrorists or a lingering, malevolent paranormal presence. [1, 2, 4]
Production Facts
You can find where to stream or rent the movie on Rotten Tomatoes. [1, 5]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/deadwater
[2] https://militarygogglebox.com/2019/12/16/deadwater-2008/
[3] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0914364/
[4] https://letterboxd.com/film/deadwater/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deadwater_(film)
[6] https://horrornews.net/19787/film-review-nazi-dawn-aka-black-ops-dead-water-2008/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/es/title/tt0914364/
[8] https://pophorror.com/chris-heltons-dead-water-no-choice-in-the-middle-of-the-ocean-review/
[9] https://observer.com/2019/07/dead-water-review-chris-helton-rex-reed/
[10] https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/film-review-dead-water-073855141.html
Deadwater (also known as Black Ops or Nazi Dawn) is a 2008 direct-to-video supernatural horror and action film directed by Roel Reiné. The movie follows an elite Marine task force investigating a reactivated World War II battleship in the Persian Gulf, only to find the crew slaughtered by a mysterious, supernatural force. [1, 2, 3]
Key Details
- Genre: Action, Horror, Mystery
- Director: Roel Reiné
- Starring: Lance Henriksen, Gary Stretch, and James Russo
- Runtime: 1 hour, 30 minutes [1, 2]
Synopsis
A decommissioned WWII-era ship is secretly deployed to the Persian Gulf to act as a military black-site for interrogations. When the ship goes completely radio silent, a specialized team of Marines led by Colonel John Willets (Lance Henriksen) is dispatched to investigate. Upon boarding, the team discovers the crew brutally murdered and must determine if the culprits are human terrorists or a lingering, malevolent paranormal presence. [1, 2, 4]
Production Facts
- Low-Budget Production: The film was a guerilla-style production, reportedly made on a $350,000 budget and shot in just 15 days.
- Location: Most of the night scenes were shot on a restored WWII museum Victory Ship in Long Beach/San Diego, California.
- Critical Reception: The film was generally met with negative reviews from critics and audiences, who cited a disjointed blend of war movie and ghost story, weak dialogue, and low production values. [5, 6, 7]
You can find where to stream or rent the movie on Rotten Tomatoes. [1, 5]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/deadwater
[2] https://militarygogglebox.com/2019/12/16/deadwater-2008/
[3] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0914364/
[4] https://letterboxd.com/film/deadwater/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deadwater_(film)
[6] https://horrornews.net/19787/film-review-nazi-dawn-aka-black-ops-dead-water-2008/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/es/title/tt0914364/
[8] https://pophorror.com/chris-heltons-dead-water-no-choice-in-the-middle-of-the-ocean-review/
[9] https://observer.com/2019/07/dead-water-review-chris-helton-rex-reed/
[10] https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/film-review-dead-water-073855141.html
- Published on
site update
From what I've read, actress Estelle Taylor -- publicly revered as one of the best-looking actresses of the silent era -- did enjoy a singular appearance in the realms of the Fantastic: in 1922, she played no less a vampiress named 'Gilda Fontaine' aboard A Fool There Was, a remake of a 1915 flick of the same name. Alas, it doesn't appear as if the film leaned hard into Horror trope, but as I always say "I'll take what I can get" in celebrating these faces of the bygone era.
Though she's no longer with us, Taylor was born on this day in 1894.
[Source: IMDB.com]
-- EZ
Though she's no longer with us, Taylor was born on this day in 1894.
[Source: IMDB.com]
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Estelle Taylor (1894–1958) was a prominent American actress, singer, and model. Celebrated as one of the most striking beauties of the 1920s, she built a prolific career in silent films and early talkies before transitioning into a successful singing career and becoming a dedicated animal rights activist. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key Highlights
Early Life and Career
Born Estelle Boylan in Wilmington, Delaware, she married a banker at age 14. After leaving the marriage, she moved to New York to study acting at the Sargent Dramatic School and modeled for illustrators. She broke into show business as a chorus girl and stage actress before moving to Hollywood in the early 1920s to star in films. [6, 7, 9, 11]
Notable Filmography
Taylor was known for playing exotic, dramatic, and "vamp" roles. Her most notable cinematic credits include:
Life After Hollywood
After stepping away from films in the mid-1930s, Taylor focused on her dramatic soprano voice. She sang in nightclubs, in vaudeville, and even performed at Carnegie Hall. She eventually retired from performing after a small part in the 1945 film The Southerner. She died of cancer in 1958 and is immortalized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. [3, 6, 7, 8, 13]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estelle_Taylor
[2] https://www.facebook.com/CitizenScreenClassics/posts/estelle-taylor-may-20-1894-april-15-1958/1261723232625012/
[3] https://www.facebook.com/groups/WomensHistoryUncovered/posts/4454607128098074/
[4] https://www.cyranos.ch/sptayl-e.htm
[5] https://www.facebook.com/groups/retroreels/posts/24452186904388599/
[6] https://walkoffame.com/estelle-taylor/
[7] https://www.primevideo.com/person/Estelle-Taylor/amzn1.dv.gti.e198655a-edd0-4cbd-b3ed-b5f44b41363c/
[8] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/estelle_taylor
[9] https://projects.latimes.com/hollywood/star-walk/estelle-taylor/
[10] https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0852347/trivia/
[11] https://filmstarpostcards.blogspot.com/2024/09/estelle-taylor.html
[12] https://www.facebook.com/groups/362753733748240/posts/5348697631820467/
[13] https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0852347/bio/
Estelle Taylor (1894–1958) was a prominent American actress, singer, and model. Celebrated as one of the most striking beauties of the 1920s, she built a prolific career in silent films and early talkies before transitioning into a successful singing career and becoming a dedicated animal rights activist. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key Highlights
- Silent Era Stardom: Best known for her roles in Cecil B. DeMille’s epic The Ten Commandments (1923) and as Lucrezia Borgia in Don Juan (1926) opposite John Barrymore.
- Talkies & Theater: She successfully transitioned to sound, co-starring in the Academy Award-winning film Cimarron (1931). She also toured the country as a highly successful vocalist.
- The Dempsey Marriage: She was married to the legendary heavyweight boxing champion Jack Dempsey from 1925 to 1931.
- Activism: A devoted pet owner, she founded the California Pet Owners’ Protective League and served on the Los Angeles City Animal Regulation Commission. [4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Early Life and Career
Born Estelle Boylan in Wilmington, Delaware, she married a banker at age 14. After leaving the marriage, she moved to New York to study acting at the Sargent Dramatic School and modeled for illustrators. She broke into show business as a chorus girl and stage actress before moving to Hollywood in the early 1920s to star in films. [6, 7, 9, 11]
Notable Filmography
Taylor was known for playing exotic, dramatic, and "vamp" roles. Her most notable cinematic credits include:
- Monte Cristo (1922)
- The Ten Commandments (1923)
- Don Juan (1926)
- Street Scene (1931)
- Call Her Savage (1932) [6, 8, 12]
Life After Hollywood
After stepping away from films in the mid-1930s, Taylor focused on her dramatic soprano voice. She sang in nightclubs, in vaudeville, and even performed at Carnegie Hall. She eventually retired from performing after a small part in the 1945 film The Southerner. She died of cancer in 1958 and is immortalized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. [3, 6, 7, 8, 13]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estelle_Taylor
[2] https://www.facebook.com/CitizenScreenClassics/posts/estelle-taylor-may-20-1894-april-15-1958/1261723232625012/
[3] https://www.facebook.com/groups/WomensHistoryUncovered/posts/4454607128098074/
[4] https://www.cyranos.ch/sptayl-e.htm
[5] https://www.facebook.com/groups/retroreels/posts/24452186904388599/
[6] https://walkoffame.com/estelle-taylor/
[7] https://www.primevideo.com/person/Estelle-Taylor/amzn1.dv.gti.e198655a-edd0-4cbd-b3ed-b5f44b41363c/
[8] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/estelle_taylor
[9] https://projects.latimes.com/hollywood/star-walk/estelle-taylor/
[10] https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0852347/trivia/
[11] https://filmstarpostcards.blogspot.com/2024/09/estelle-taylor.html
[12] https://www.facebook.com/groups/362753733748240/posts/5348697631820467/
[13] https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0852347/bio/
- Published on
in memoriam
Readers, word has reached the Information Superhighway this morning regarding the passage of actor T.K. Carter.
As is often the case in these memoriams, the man's name might not exactly be up to the 'household level,' but for those of us who've enjoyed a good number of works -- both genre related and beyond -- from the ages gone by his was a known presence. Arguably, he didn't work as much in the latter years of his careers as in the earlier ones -- Hollywood can be a cruel mistress for talent as they age -- and, yet, there are a few roles with deserve a bit of attention in this space.
Chiefly, Carter is probably most recognized for this work in John Carpenter's The Thing (1982), a film many consider the Horror Master's best work. (I'll not dispute that standing, but I will say I disagree.) Alas, methinks everyone in there became a victim to the interstellar creature trapped on Earth; and I imagine that the man suffered an equally grim fate alongside his fictional comrades. But -- in the year before -- he had a role in Southern Comfort, an often overlooked grim backwoods Thriller that really deserves wider recognition than it's ever earned.
Carter went on only a few years later to a few gigs in voice acting. 1984 saw him lending his pipes to a character in Turbo Teen -- an animated outing focusing on a young man with the ability to morph into a suped-up automobile. Then, in 1985, he enjoyed a guest voice spot in the fondly remembered The Transformers show.
In 1996, he landed some screen time aboard Yesterday's Target, a time travel-based telefilm with Daniel Baldwin and fan favorite Stacy Haiduk. That same year, he also gave voice to an animated character in Space Jam which headlined basketball great Michael Jordan.
Of course, there's a bit more; but the vast majority of that concerns much more conventional fare.
Our warmest prayers are extended to the family, friends, and fans of T.K. Carter.
May he rest in peace ...
-- EZ
As is often the case in these memoriams, the man's name might not exactly be up to the 'household level,' but for those of us who've enjoyed a good number of works -- both genre related and beyond -- from the ages gone by his was a known presence. Arguably, he didn't work as much in the latter years of his careers as in the earlier ones -- Hollywood can be a cruel mistress for talent as they age -- and, yet, there are a few roles with deserve a bit of attention in this space.
Chiefly, Carter is probably most recognized for this work in John Carpenter's The Thing (1982), a film many consider the Horror Master's best work. (I'll not dispute that standing, but I will say I disagree.) Alas, methinks everyone in there became a victim to the interstellar creature trapped on Earth; and I imagine that the man suffered an equally grim fate alongside his fictional comrades. But -- in the year before -- he had a role in Southern Comfort, an often overlooked grim backwoods Thriller that really deserves wider recognition than it's ever earned.
Carter went on only a few years later to a few gigs in voice acting. 1984 saw him lending his pipes to a character in Turbo Teen -- an animated outing focusing on a young man with the ability to morph into a suped-up automobile. Then, in 1985, he enjoyed a guest voice spot in the fondly remembered The Transformers show.
In 1996, he landed some screen time aboard Yesterday's Target, a time travel-based telefilm with Daniel Baldwin and fan favorite Stacy Haiduk. That same year, he also gave voice to an animated character in Space Jam which headlined basketball great Michael Jordan.
Of course, there's a bit more; but the vast majority of that concerns much more conventional fare.
Our warmest prayers are extended to the family, friends, and fans of T.K. Carter.
May he rest in peace ...
-- EZ
- Published on
site update
so many movies ... so little time ...
On this day in 2014 (in the United Kingdom), Demon Legacy enjoyed a general release on home video. Directed by Rand Vossler from a story by Tracy Morse, the film starred John Savage, AnnaMaria Demara, Michelle Nunes, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a remote mountain lodge, five sorority sisters accidentally unleash an unholy entity, and must battle evil and each other to stop it from devouring mankind."
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In a remote mountain lodge, five sorority sisters accidentally unleash an unholy entity, and must battle evil and each other to stop it from devouring mankind."
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Demon Legacy (also known as See How They Run or Haunting at Foster Cabin) is a 2014 supernatural B-horror movie directed by Rand Clark. It centers on five sorority sisters who retreat to a remote mountain lodge, where they accidentally unleash an ancient, demonic entity via a Ouija board. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key Details
Where to Watch
If you are looking to see this campy horror flick, you can stream it for free on Tubi TV or view it via Apple TV. [4, 11]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334558/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6uxWQcKxlA
[3] https://www.facebook.com/yet.scared.you.are/posts/demon-legacy-2014-is-the-story-of-five-sorority-sisters-at-a-remote-forest-cabin/1628954191390695/
[4] https://tubitv.com/movies/100026529/demon-legacy
[5] https://filmblitz.org/demon-legacy-2014/
[6] https://theschlockpit.com/2016/02/12/demon-legacy-2014/
[7] https://culturecrypt.com/movie-reviews/demon-legacy-2014
[8] https://letterboxd.com/film/demon-legacy/
[9] https://letterboxd.com/film/demon-legacy/watch/
[10] https://horrornews.net/86434/film-review-demon-legacy-2014/
[11] https://tv.apple.com/ie/movie/demon-legacy/umc.cmc.2lk5zwog7s8c22od01h1casid
Demon Legacy (also known as See How They Run or Haunting at Foster Cabin) is a 2014 supernatural B-horror movie directed by Rand Clark. It centers on five sorority sisters who retreat to a remote mountain lodge, where they accidentally unleash an ancient, demonic entity via a Ouija board. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key Details
- Premise: After going through a bad breakup, Michelle retreats to her family's secluded mountain cabin with her four closest friends to clear her mind. They drink, party, and eventually discover an archaic Ouija board in the basement, which unwittingly summons malevolent spirits.
- The Vibe: The film acts as a shameless, low-budget homage to classic 1980s cabin-in-the-woods films, drawing heavy comparisons to the Evil Dead franchise.
- Cast: The movie stars AnnaMaria Demara and Kate Siegel, and notably features veteran actor John Savage as well as Eileen Dietz (best known as the face of the demon in The Exorcist).
- Reception: It generally flew under the radar with mostly negative to mixed reviews, currently holding a 3.4/10 on IMDb. Critics and audiences often describe it as a cheesy, schlocky B-movie that relies on rapid-camera possession effects and features several notorious B-movie tropes. [1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Where to Watch
If you are looking to see this campy horror flick, you can stream it for free on Tubi TV or view it via Apple TV. [4, 11]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334558/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6uxWQcKxlA
[3] https://www.facebook.com/yet.scared.you.are/posts/demon-legacy-2014-is-the-story-of-five-sorority-sisters-at-a-remote-forest-cabin/1628954191390695/
[4] https://tubitv.com/movies/100026529/demon-legacy
[5] https://filmblitz.org/demon-legacy-2014/
[6] https://theschlockpit.com/2016/02/12/demon-legacy-2014/
[7] https://culturecrypt.com/movie-reviews/demon-legacy-2014
[8] https://letterboxd.com/film/demon-legacy/
[9] https://letterboxd.com/film/demon-legacy/watch/
[10] https://horrornews.net/86434/film-review-demon-legacy-2014/
[11] https://tv.apple.com/ie/movie/demon-legacy/umc.cmc.2lk5zwog7s8c22od01h1casid
- Published on
site update
so many movies ... so little time ...
On this day in 2012 (in France), audiences of the much-lauded Cannes Film Festival were treated to the big screen debut of Argento's Dracula (aka Dracula 3D). Written (in part) and directed by Dario Argento, the film starred Thomas Kretschmann, Marta Gastini, Asia Argento, and others.
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Asia Argento stars in horror legend Dario Argento's sexy spin on the classic tale about the sharp-toothed count who craves human blood."
For the record:
At the 2014 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Argento's Dracula earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Film.'
-- EZ
According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Asia Argento stars in horror legend Dario Argento's sexy spin on the classic tale about the sharp-toothed count who craves human blood."
For the record:
At the 2014 Fangoria Chainsaw Awards, Argento's Dracula earned a nomination in the category of 'Worst Film.'
-- EZ
From Google.com:
Argento's Dracula (also known as Dracula 3D) is a 2012 horror film directed by Italian horror master Dario Argento. The movie is a loose, highly campy adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel, blending the traditional vampire lore with Argento's signature bizarre style, notable practical gore, and highly controversial CGI. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Plot Summary
The story is set in 1893 in the Carpathian village of Passo Borgo. It follows Jonathan Harker, a young librarian who travels to the region to work for the mysterious Count Dracula. Harker soon discovers the Count's monstrous nature, putting his wife, Mina, and the local townspeople in grave danger. Abraham Van Helsing eventually arrives in the village and works with the locals to track down Dracula, leading to the vampire's ultimate destruction. [1, 5, 6, 7]
Cast
Reception and Style
The film is widely considered a deeply flawed, campy B-movie by mainstream critics, though it has found some appreciation among die-hard Argento devotees for its sheer eccentricity. Notable elements include:
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dracula_3D
[2] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1852770/
[3] https://blog.mosherpit.com/horror-movies/review-dario-argentos-dracula-2012/
[4] http://filmconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2014/03/argentos-dracula-3-d-2012.html
[5] https://movies.fandom.com/wiki/Dario_Argento%27s_Dracula_3D
[6] https://www.festival-cannes.com/en/f/dario-argento-dracula/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1852770/plotsummary/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmMNhuTLAhk
[9] https://dreadcult.com/reviews/argentos-dracula/
[10] https://thecraggus.com/2018/10/31/argentos-dracula-3d-2012-review/
[11] https://culturecrypt.com/movie-reviews/argentos-dracula-3d-2012
[12] https://www.horrordna.com/movies/dario-argentss-dracula-3d-movie-review
Argento's Dracula (also known as Dracula 3D) is a 2012 horror film directed by Italian horror master Dario Argento. The movie is a loose, highly campy adaptation of Bram Stoker's classic novel, blending the traditional vampire lore with Argento's signature bizarre style, notable practical gore, and highly controversial CGI. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Plot Summary
The story is set in 1893 in the Carpathian village of Passo Borgo. It follows Jonathan Harker, a young librarian who travels to the region to work for the mysterious Count Dracula. Harker soon discovers the Count's monstrous nature, putting his wife, Mina, and the local townspeople in grave danger. Abraham Van Helsing eventually arrives in the village and works with the locals to track down Dracula, leading to the vampire's ultimate destruction. [1, 5, 6, 7]
Cast
- Thomas Kretschmann as Count Dracula
- Rutger Hauer as Abraham Van Helsing
- Marta Gastini as Mina
- Asia Argento as Lucy Kisslinger
- Unax Ugalde as Jonathan Harker [1, 5]
Reception and Style
The film is widely considered a deeply flawed, campy B-movie by mainstream critics, though it has found some appreciation among die-hard Argento devotees for its sheer eccentricity. Notable elements include:
- Unique Lore: In this adaptation, Dracula possesses shape-shifting abilities, notoriously transforming into a swarm of flies, a giant wolf, an owl, and even an infamous giant praying mantis.
- Theatrical Visuals: Despite Argento's celebrated history of meticulously crafted visual masterpieces like Suspiria, this film was widely criticized for uneven lighting and surprisingly cheap, video-game quality CGI effects mixed with practical, bloody gore.
- Classic Exploitation Elements: Leaning heavily into the romantic and erotic elements of the genre, the film includes substantial nudity and adult themes, notably featuring the director's daughter, Asia Argento. [1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dracula_3D
[2] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1852770/
[3] https://blog.mosherpit.com/horror-movies/review-dario-argentos-dracula-2012/
[4] http://filmconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2014/03/argentos-dracula-3-d-2012.html
[5] https://movies.fandom.com/wiki/Dario_Argento%27s_Dracula_3D
[6] https://www.festival-cannes.com/en/f/dario-argento-dracula/
[7] https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1852770/plotsummary/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmMNhuTLAhk
[9] https://dreadcult.com/reviews/argentos-dracula/
[10] https://thecraggus.com/2018/10/31/argentos-dracula-3d-2012-review/
[11] https://culturecrypt.com/movie-reviews/argentos-dracula-3d-2012
[12] https://www.horrordna.com/movies/dario-argentss-dracula-3d-movie-review