Facebook

FilmNerd

Author: FilmNerd

  • The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||||false|false”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”Special Review” subhead=”This review was requested by Patreon support JacksJD. If you’d like to support me on Patreon, click the button below.” text_orientation=”center” button_one_text=”Visit Patreon” button_one_url=”https://www.patreon.com/filmnerd” background_overlay_color=”#f96854″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ background_color=”#f96854″ custom_button_one=”on” button_one_bg_color=”#052d49″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”25px||25px||false|false”][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    In 1999, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, a coming-of-age novel by Stephen Chbosky, was published by Pocket Books. Incorporating some of his own experiences in high school, the book was the publisher’s highest-selling book at the time. While the book had a mixed reception, it later developed a cult following and Chbosky started getting film offers. Chbosky wanted to make a film adaptation, but he turned down several offers given how personal the story was. In 2010, John Malcovich’s Mr. Mudd Productions acquired the rights, and they allowed Chbosky to write and direct the film. For the leads, they hired Logan Lerman from the Percy Jackson series and Emma Watson of Harry Potter fame. After roughly two months of filming in Cincinnati and Pittsburgh, the film was re-edited to receive a PG-13 rating. In September of 2012, the film version of The Perks of Being a Wallflower was released.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”90″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Charlie (Logan Lerman) is a young man suffering from clinical depression that’s about to enter freshman year of high school. He’s very shy, awkward, and has trouble making friends, though he likes his English teacher Mr. Anderson (Paul Rudd). During a football game, he meets seniors/siblings Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller), who become his friends. Soon, Charlie grows closer to Sam and Patrick and meets their friends Mary Elizabeth (Mae Whitman) and Alice (Erin Wilhelmi). They bond over their shared love of indie music and attending/participating in screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Over time, Charlie starts having flashes of his Aunt Helen (Melanie Lynskey), which also triggers blackout moments of rage/anger. He has his ups and downs throughout high school: finding love, losing friends, defending his friends, and his ever-growing depression. High school is just one step into the rest of Charlie’s life.

     

    Review

    The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a very touching and heartfelt coming-of-age story perfect for today’s generation. Even though the film is set in the early 90s, much like The Breakfast Club, anyone can relate to it. First off, for a first-time director, Chbosky’s direction is simple but effective, giving the film a real homegrown feel. The use of shadows and a muted color scheme perfectly complement the rather somber and downhome tone of the film. The cast is fantastic, with Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller all shining in their lead roles. Lerman makes for a very sympathetic and likable lead who has his moments of weakness and expertly depicts depression. He has great chemistry with Miller and Watson, though her notable British accent occasionally slips through but not significantly. Also, Paul Rudd, Tom Savini, Kate Walsh, Dylan McDermott, and Joan Cusack shine in their small roles.

    Much like the best of John Hughes, this film deals with some issues that are relevant to any audience. Admittedly, some of these issues aren’t handled too well, such as suicide, which is brought up and quickly glossed over. But for the most part, the film handles themes of depression, isolation, friendship, and young love very well. Also of note is how the film handles its gay character Patrick, who is openly gay but not too stereotypical. The film depicts him as very realistic and fun-loving despite feeling rejected by his peers, including his football player boyfriend. While the movie is very funny at times thanks to its dialogue and cast, it can also be very serious. Thankfully, it’s not the kind of serious that feels manipulative or overly emotional, and it has a quick 103-minute runtime. Overall, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a fantastic examination of adolescence.

     

    Buy The Perks of Being a Wallflower from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3eYz9SM

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Graduation Day (1981)

    Graduation Day (1981)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

    After being dissatisfied with being a rabbi, Herb Freed was convinced by his wife to pursue his true passion: film. Freed really wanted to make arthouse films but recognized that there was no money to be made in arthouse films. He made his debut film A.W.O.L. in 1972, which was followed by the horror film Haunts in 1976. While working on that film, Freed met David Baughn, an executive who worked with MGM and Russ Meyer’s company. The two entered a partnership to produce and distribute their own films, agreeing that the real money was in horror. Together, they produced the supernatural horror film Beyond Evil, which was released the same year as Friday the 13th. Seeing that slasher films were becoming popular, they decided to find a holiday that hadn’t been made into one yet. They settled on Graduation Day, which was released in May of 1981.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”85″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    At Midvale High School, young athlete Laura Ramstead (Ruth Ann Llorens) dies from a blood clot during a track meet. Months later, her older sister Anne (Patch Mackenzie) comes home to take part in the high school’s graduation. Meanwhile, someone is killing off the remaining members of Laura’s track team and crossing them off a team picture. Right before the killer strikes, they pull out a stopwatch to make sure they kill their victims within 30 seconds. The track team is killed in various methods, including a football with a metal spike and a steel spike pit. As more and more students are disappearing, Principal Guglione (Michael Pataki) is having to deal with their parents. Anne confronts Laura’s track coach George Michaels (Christopher George) who’s still dealing with being blamed for her death. Who is this mysterious killer, and who will survive and make it to graduation day?

     

    Review

    Graduation Day is not only a solid slasher, but it also works as a great mystery film. Throughout the film, there are various red herrings placed about, and each one makes sense for being the killer. Between the grieving sister Anne, the angry coach George, and the eccentric principal, any of them could be the killer. Admittedly, one thing that somewhat drags the film is that there isn’t one central character to focus on. While Anne is initially the lead early on, she disappears for much of the film until the third act. Also, we don’t really get to know much of the track team aside from their names up until they’re killed. That being said, for an early 80s slasher, the film has some fairly likable characters that you honestly care about. Plus, slashers aren’t really known for their deep characterizations or rich backstories.

    Though she disappears for much of the film, Patch Mackenzie makes for a solid lead, being both sympathetic and tough. One of her best scenes is when she’s confronting the coach, and she bounces off of Christopher George with ease. Speaking of, Christopher George delivers a great performance as always, and Michael Pataki has some funny moments as the principal. However, the biggest name here is a then-unknown Vanna White, who got the job since George was her uncle. Plus, we get an early appearance of future 80s scream-queen Linnea Quigley from Sorority Babes in the Slimeball Bowl-O-Rama. What really makes the film stand out is the editing, which incorporates a lot of quick cuts and split-second shots. While some may find it distracting, it’s used just enough here to make the scenes more energetic and tense. Overall, Graduation Day is a slasher classic that should be talked about more.

     

    Buy Graduation Day from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2S48mLI

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Wrath of Man (2021)

    Wrath of Man (2021)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

    Much like Martin Scorsese with Robert De Niro, filmmaker Guy Ritchie was known for frequently working with actor Jason Statham. The two worked together on Long, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatch, and Revolver only to go their separate ways. Statham went onto star in The Expendables franchise while Ritchie directed the two Sherlock Holmes movies with Robert Downey Jr. Following the live-action Aladdin and The Gentlemen, it was announced that Ritchie would be remaking the French film Cash Truck. Released in 2004, the film was about a money transport company suffering from numerous robberies where their guards are killed. Ritchie’s remake was supposed to be released in January of 2021 but was pushed back due to COVID-19. It was released in numerous foreign territories in April, but the US wouldn’t see a release until May. Ritchie’s remake of the 2004 film would be retitled Wrath of Man.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”85″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Patrick Hill (Jason Statham) gets a job with Fortico Security, an armored truck company, as a truck driver. During a training run, Hill manages to rescue his superior Bullet (Holt McCallany) from some thugs by killing them. Though he’s commended for his actions, many of the other employees, particularly Boy Sweat Dave (Josh Hartnett), are suspicious. Turns out Hill is actually Heargraves, a crime boss whose son Dougie (Eli Brown) was killed during a truck heist. Said heist was orchestrated by former soldiers led by Jackson (Jeffrey Donovan), and Dougie’s killer was associate Jan (Scott Eastwood). Jackson and his group are now planning a major heist at Fortico Security during Black Friday for approximately $150 million. Soon, Heargraves/Hill learns that one of the truck drivers is an informant for Jackson’s group and who killed Dougie. It all culminates in a major shootout with Fortico Security as the battleground.

     

    Review

    Wrath of Man is a much darker and more serious film than what you’d normally expect from a Statham flick. While Guy Ritchie is known for making crime films, most of them have a somewhat lighthearted tone to them. Here, they try to mix in some of those quips and quick-witted dialogue with a much darker tone and story. The Gentlemen felt more in line with old-school Guy Ritchie, while this feels like a bitter and cynical Guy Ritchie. However, like many of Ritchie’s other films, this is told in a non-linear fashion, jumping backward and forward in time. This style of storytelling makes it a unique experience having to fit everything together, but it can get somewhat confusing. Even at roughly two hours, the non-linear storytelling can make the film feel longer than it actually is. Granted, it’s still paced well and is an enjoyable watch.

    Like many films where he’s the lead, Jason Statham delivers the same cool and commanding performance we’ve come to expect. Admittedly, he does come off somewhat stoic and emotionless, but then again, Statham isn’t known for playing richly complex characters. Jeffrey Donovan, though not as commanding as Statham, is still great as the leader struggling to keep his team together. Given how we spend more time with Donovan than with Statham, some might become more attached to Donovan. Then again, both aren’t exactly good people, so it’s difficult to really side with either, but that’s probably the point. In terms of action, this film delivers it in spades, though there’s a good chunk where not much action occurs. That being said, the slower scenes are still enjoyable to watch thanks to the solid acting and captivating story. Overall, Wrath of Man is a dark and intense action-thriller worth watching.

     

    Buy Wrath of Man from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tsHUsl.

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at no additional cost, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and make a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.27.5″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Where to watch Wrath of Man (2021)

    data-api-key=”LMVDLdLSH5ZJnQ4FMGMgyJCB8cmGbfCV” data-object-type=”Movie” data-title=”Wrath of Man” data-year=”2021″ data-theme=”light”>

    [/et_pb_code][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Prison (1987)

    Prison (1987)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Irwin Yablans, who produced the 1978 classic Halloween, was thinking of new ideas for a horror film. Feeling that just about every idea had been exhausted, he started thinking of setting a horror film in a prison. He pitched the idea to Charles Band, and he agreed to produce it under his company, Empire Pictures. They hired C. Courtney Joyner to pen the script, but he decided to make it more of a ghost story. Yablans wanted a young, up-and-coming director to helm the project, someone who could be the next John Carpenter. Off the strength of his debut feature Born American, Finnish filmmaker Renny Harlin was hired for his first American film. With a budget of around $1-$4 million, they went to the former Wyoming State Penitentiary to shoot this horrifying production. Eventually, Prison was released in 1987 in the UK and 1988 in the US.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”85″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Despite the objections of inspector Katherine Walker (Chelsea Field), the prison board decides to reopen the recently condemned Creedmore Prison. Eaton Sharpe (Lane Smith), who was a guard back in the day, is hired to be the warden. Several hundred inmates are transferred in, including Burke (Viggo Mortensen), Cresus (Lincoln Kilpatrick), and Joe ‘Lasagna’ Lazano (Ivan Kane). Trouble starts brewing when one of the inmates is burned to death in a solitary confinement cell. Walker is demanding an investigation be conducted, but Sharpe declines and is vehement about reporting to the board. Turns out that back in the day, Sharpe oversaw the execution of a prisoner who was framed for murder. As more prisoners and guards are being killed in mysterious ways, Sharpe is driven mad while trying to maintain control. Soon, the prisoners band together to try escaping before they’re picked off by the vengeful spirits of the prison.

     

    Review

    Compared to many of the cheap quickies put out by Empire Pictures around this time, Prison is a hidden gem. Part of what makes this film stand out is the fact that they shot in an actual abandoned prison. The location has a very dark and foreboding presence on its own, enhanced by the excellent cinematography of Mac Ahlberg. For such a low budget and given that this was Renny Harlin’s second film, it looks way better than expected. There are tons of moody lighting, harsh shadows, and dynamic lighting, with some scenes feeling like a warped dream. Acting-wise, everyone does a solid job, Lane Smith in particular making for a great and complex villain. As much as he tries to act tough and stern, you get a sense that he’s haunted by his past. Plus, Hal Landon Jr. of Bill & Ted fame plays a guard.

    While he’s not given many lines, Viggo Mortensen has a very cool and charismatic presence to him. It’s easy to see how he became a major star in the Lord of the Rings films and Green Book. Chelsea Field does a good job as the female lead and has great back-and-forths with Smith and Mortensen. Also, there are plenty of notable character actors, including Tommy “Tiny” Lister, Lincoln Kilpatrick, Tom Everett, and Larry “Flash” Jenkins. Like many Charles Band productions, the late great John Carl Buechler did the effects, and it’s easily his best work. From Hal Landon Jr.’s death by razor wire to the zombified corpse played by Kane Hodder, it’s some incredible stuff. Admittedly, the film does take a while to get going, but once they’re at the prison, all hell breaks loose. Overall, Prison is a solidly creepy and atmospheric horror film worthy of rediscovering.

     

    Buy Prison on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3tJgcaD

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Ghost Rider (2007)

    Ghost Rider (2007)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.5.6″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||||false|false”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”Special Review” subhead=”This review was requested by Discord user Mekanikal. If you’d like to join the server, click the button below.” text_orientation=”center” button_one_text=”Visit Discord” button_one_url=”https://discord.gg/sKBSX7u” background_overlay_color=”#8300E9″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”25px||25px||false|false”][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

    The character of Ghost Rider first appeared in Marvel Spotlight #5, which was published in August 1972. Originally running until 1983, the character was brought back for a limited series in the early 1990s. Around this time, Marvel was looking to produce a film and started talking to various studios about selling the rights. Demonic Toys writer David S. Goyer developed a script, and production was set to start in early 2001. Johnny Depp and Eric Bana were approached to star before Nicolas Cage, a fan of the comics, signed on. Originally to be produced by Dimension, Columbia acquired the rights through turnaround after the success of Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man. Shane Salerno was brought on for rewrites, only for Daredevil director Mark Steven Johnson to further rewrite after being hired. After being in production for several years, Ghost Rider was finally released in February 2007.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”65″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Johnny Blaze (Nicolas Cage) is a professional stunt motorcycle rider known for surviving all sorts of ludicrous stunts. Turns out when he was younger, he sold his soul to Mephistopheles (Peter Fonda) to save his dying father. Now, his son Blackheart (Wes Bentley) is on Earth searching for a contract containing 1,000 corrupted souls. In response, Mephistopheles has Johnny go after Blackheart and his crew by turning him into the Ghost Rider. At night, his skin burns off to reveal a flaming skeleton with extraordinary powers that can burn corrupted souls. Along the way, he meets The Caretaker (Sam Elliot), who tells him all about the Rider, Blackheart, and the contract. Johnny also meets up with his old girlfriend Roxanne (Eva Mendes), who Blackheart kidnaps to try and get to him. With his new powers, Johnny must face Blackheart and his elemental demon friends to prevent the end of days.

     

    Review

    With a few exceptions, the 2000s were filled with average-to-mediocre superhero movies, which Ghost Rider fits into. While not as good as Spider-Man 2 or X2: X-Men United, it’s still better than Catwoman or Fantastic Four. In terms of direction, Mark Steven Johnson does a competent job, though he makes good use of shadows and fog. Given how much he was a fan of the comics, Nick Cage clearly is trying to give the character depth. Unfortunately, for the most part, he’s either very morose and broody, or he’s going full-on Nick Cage crazy. As much as I love crazy Nick Cage, the way he shifts between over-the-top and subdued is inconsistent and jarring. While she’s basically the typical damsel in distress, Eva Mendes is ok and has some decent chemistry with Cage. Granted, they worked together much better in Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.

    Peter Fonda and Sam Elliot make the film worth watching, but you know they’re waiting for the check to clear. Sadly, Wes Bentley makes for a pretty lackluster villain, looking more like the rebellious teen who frequents Hot Topic. Also, his three demon pals, who represent earth, wind, and water, are just as lame given how quickly they’re defeated. Their abilities could’ve made the fights with Ghost Rider more exciting, but they’re over and done within mere seconds. Admittedly, Ghost Rider’s design is pretty cool, and seeing him whip his chain around to fight bad guys is fun. However, at slightly under two hours, the movie has really bad pacing and just drags its way to the end. This movie is enjoyable for maybe 15-20 minutes, but the rest of it is slow, boring, and not worth watching. Overall, Ghost Rider is just mediocre at best and boring at worst.

     

    Buy Ghost Rider from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3aYLrrN

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Mother’s Day (1980)

    Mother’s Day (1980)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

    Charles Kaufman, brother of Troma co-founder Lloyd Kaufman, currently runs a bakery in San Diego that’s been operating since 1994. However, before entering the baking industry, Charles wanted to get into the film industry and attended UCLA’s film school. After graduating, Kaufman got a job working on the Bob Hope Show before moving on to making B-movies. Not having much luck in Hollywood, Charles decided to move back to New York to work with his brother Lloyd. His directorial debut was the 1977 adult film, The Secret Dreams of Mona Q, which Lloyd also produced. Around this time, John Carpenter’s Halloween was dominating the box office, and studios were trying to capitalize on its success. Seeing the potential in this, Charles decided to make his next project a horror film, albeit with some humor added. Made on a budget of $115,000, Mother’s Day was released in September of 1980.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”80″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Former college roommates Trina (Tiana Pierce), Abbey (Nancy Hendrickson), and Jackie (Deborah Luce) have an annual “mystery weekend” tradition. Each year, one of them picks a mystery destination for them to spend the weekend, and this is Jackie’s year. She plans a camping trip for the three of them at Deep Barons, a wooded area in rural New Jersey. One night, they’re stuffed into their sleeping bags and kidnapped by brothers Ike (Frederick Coffin) and Addley (Michael McCleery). The girls are brought before the brothers’ demented mother (Beatrice Pons), who subjects them to physical and mental torture. While the girls manage to escape, Jackie dies from her wounds, leaving Trina and Abbey to fend for themselves. After recovering, the girls head back to the house to get their revenge on the brothers and their mother. Truly, this will be one Mother’s Day they won’t soon forget.

     

    Review

    After having viewed Mother’s Day, I’m somewhat conflicted on my feelings towards the overall film, mostly due to the tone. When the girls are kidnapped and tortured, it’s effectively disturbing and uncomfortable, which makes the revenge all the more satisfying. However, several scenes are so ridiculous in between the disturbing moments, it’s hard to take it seriously. From what I understand, Charles Kaufman intended for this to have some satire, which many contemporary critics have noted. I can see where they’re coming from, given that the boys are raised on junk food and TV. Also, there are numerous pop culture references sprinkled in, such as a Star Trek poster and G.I. Joe action figures. It comes off as a satire of rampant consumerism, a society raised on popular media, and parental upbringing. Granted, I could be reaching for something deep in an exploitation film.

    Directing-wise, Charles does well behind the camera, and the low budget gives it a very raw and gritty feel. In terms of acting, it’s about what you’d expect from this type of movie, though there are a few stand-outs. Credited as Rose Ross, Beatrice Pons steals the show as the demented mother who wants her boys to prove themselves. Frederick Coffin and Michael McCleery work well off each other as the dimwitted brothers and they have some good back-and-forths. Speaking of, Tiana Pierce, Nancy Hendrickson, and Deborah Luce have decent chemistry, and you feel for what they’re going through. While the film clocks in roughly 90 minutes, much of the runtime is padded out with a pretty meaningless filler. These slower scenes do detract from the film, but it’s almost expected for this era of exploitation film. Overall, Mother’s Day is a bit disjointed, but it’s still a good time.

     

    Buy Mother’s Day from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2QMdq76

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Robot Wars (1993)

    Robot Wars (1993)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]By 1993, Full Moon Features was on a roll and had some of their biggest successes in their history. In addition to starting up many popular franchises, Full Moon launched Moonbeam Entertainment, a line of kids’ sci-fi/fantasy films. 1993 alone saw the release of Bloodstone: Subspecies II, Dollman vs. Demonic Toys, and Puppet Master 4 among others. They also had plenty of other movies in production, but many of them wouldn’t see a release until after 1993. While Charles Band oversaw the films as a producer, he only directed a few, oftentimes with his father Albert Band. Though credited as co-directors on Doctor Mordrid, Albert basically filled in for Charles since he was busy running the company. For their 1993 follow-up to 1989’s Robot Jox, it was originally a father-son project before Albert had to take over. Robot Wars was released direct-to-video in April 1993.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”75″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    In the year 2041, Earth has been divided into two factions: the North Hemi and the Eastern Alliance. With their declining economy, the North Hemi is making a deal to manufacture defensive robots for the Eastern Alliance. Dubbed “mini-megs”, they’re smaller versions of “mega-robots”, giant military robots now used for civilian transport, including the Mega-Robotic Assault System-2. Also known as the MRAS-2, the robot is piloted by Captain Drake (Don Michael Paul) and copilot Stumpy (James Staley). During a run, they’re attacked by terrorists called “Centros”, and Drake is ordered to attack by Chief Rooney (Peter Haskell). Rooney wants to impress Eastern Alliance General Wa-Lee (Danny Kamekona) and his aide Chou-Sing (Yuji Okumoto) to negotiate the deal. Meanwhile, Dr. Leda Fanning (Barbara Crampton) and her reporter friend Annie (Lisa Rinna) suspect that there’s more going on. Soon, Drake and Stumpy join and discover something sinister being planned.

     

    Review

    While not as action-packed as Robot Jox, Robot Wars is still a fairly entertaining low-budget sci-fi film that’s also short. Like Stuart Gordon’s film, one of the highlights here is the stop-motion animation by the late great David Allen. Admittedly, there are only two robots in the whole movie, and they don’t do much, but the stop-motion is impressive. While it may seem archaic by today’s standards, there’s a realness to them that can’t be replicated with CGI. Plot-wise, it shares some similarities with Stuart Gordon’s film, namely the opposing factions that are essentially East vs West. For a film that’s roughly 70 minutes in length, there’s a surprising amount of world-building that adds to the story. It almost makes you wish that they’d build on it further, but it’s more window dressing than anything else. Then again, Full Moon’s not really known for its deep stories.

    Don Michael Paul makes for a fun lead, playing it as ridiculously cocky and arrogant as possible. Barbara Crampton has some decent chemistry with him, though their love story feels shoehorned in considering she initially hates him. It’s interesting to see Danny Kamekona play a bad guy considering his role in Robot Jox, where he was good. Though she isn’t given much to do, Lisa Rinna is incredibly gorgeous and makes for a good sidekick to Crampton. Additionally, some of the blue screen work is very noticeable and sticks out in a bad way. Also, there’s a sequence involving a 90s-style ghost town that’s clearly there so they wouldn’t have to build sets. Still, many of these points are mute since this is meant purely to show stop-motion robots fighting, which it delivers. Overall, Robot Wars is a fun movie that’s perfect for a Saturday afternoon.

     

    Buy Robot Wars from

    Disclosure: The above link is an affiliate link, which means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • It’s Pat (1994)

    It’s Pat (1994)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||||false|false”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”Special Review” subhead=”This review was requested by Discord user Propainkey. If you’d like to join the server or subscribe to Propainkey’s YouTube channel, click the buttons below.” text_orientation=”center” button_one_text=”Visit Discord” button_one_url=”https://discord.gg/sKBSX7u” button_two_text=”Propainkey on YouTube” button_two_url=”https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzD240zgj0RrV43VKrQrceg” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ background_enable_color=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#8300e9″ background_color_gradient_end=”#e02b20″ custom_button_one=”on” button_one_bg_color=”#8300E9″ custom_button_two=”on” button_two_bg_color=”#E02B20″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”25px||25px||false|false”][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    During the 16th season of Saturday Night Live, the character of Pat, played by Julia Sweeney, was introduced. The joke about the character was that they are of undetermined gender and people are trying to figure it out. Having been featured in 14 sketches, the Pat character became one of the more popular characters on the show. However, over the years, the character has been criticized for negatively portraying people who are struggling with gender identity issues. Regardless, the character proved popular enough that a film adaptation was being considered after Wayne’s World was a financial success. The film was originally to be produced by Fox before they dropped out and Touchstone Pictures picked it up. With a budget of $8 million, the cast comprised of SNL veterans Julia Sweeney, Charles Rocket, and Tim Meadows. Finally, August 1994 saw the release of Adam Bernstein’s It’s Pat.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”10″ bar_bg_color=”#E02B20″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Pat Riley (Julia Sweeney) is a heavyset person of undetermined gender who’s wanting more out of life. Unfortunately, they’ve been fired from every job they’ve had and Pat seems to not be happy with any of them. One day, Pat meets Chris (Dave Foley), a similarly androgynous person working as a bartender, and they fall in love. All over town, people keep asking the same question but never get an answer, “What is Pat’s gender?” One such person is Pat’s neighbor Kyle Jacobsen (Charles Rocket), whose curiosity turns into an obsession that ruins his life. Pat goes through a series of “wacky” scenarios, like taking a talk radio show from their neighbor Kathy (Kathy Griffin). Unfortunately, Chris ends up leaving Pat because of their selfishness and their inability to commit to anything in life. Will Pat and Chris be reunited, and how far will Kyle go to learn the truth?

     

    Review

    Ordinarily, I don’t like to throw around the term “worst movie ever” because there will always be something worse. In the case of It’s Pat, this is one instance where I can definitely call something the worst movie ever. In terms of comedy, this film fails on just about every single level and is almost entirely devoid of humor. Most of the “jokes” are pretty low-brow, which was fairly common in the 90s, but none of them land here. What doesn’t help is that Pat is easily one of the most disgusting, obnoxious, and unlikeable leads I’ve ever seen. Granted, I’m not familiar with the original sketch, but I can’t imagine the character being this insufferable on the show. Regardless, so much of the film is filled with Julia Sweeney mugging for the camera and using her obnoxious laugh. You know it’s bad when Kathy Griffin is actually sympathetic.

    Despite the film’s general awfulness, the one bright spot of the whole thing is Charles Rocket and his subplot. I don’t know who told him to treat this like a thriller, but I’m glad he did because it’s amazing. He plays his part with such intensity and creepiness that he’s much more interesting than the lead we’re given. We see his curiosity over Pat’s gender turn to an obsession where he starts dressing up like Pat. If the whole movie were a stalker thriller disguised as a dumb comedy, it might’ve actually been enjoyable. Instead, even at 75 minutes, the film is a pain to sit through, going from one “wacky” scenario to another. If The Blues Brothers and Wayne’s World are considered the gold standard SNL movies, this is easily among the worst. Overall, It’s Pat is easily one of the most painful films I’ve ever sat through.

     

    Buy It’s Pat from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2QDbein

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo (1994)

    Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo (1994)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

    Tom Chaney was studying filmmaking in Michigan when he met special effects designer Gary Jones while working on The Carrier. The two instantly became good friends, having a shared love for monster movies and started working together. Chaney and Tom were both influenced by Sam Raimi and company, and Jones did special effects on Evil Dead II. While working on commercials and still attending school, Chaney was saving up to buy film stock for his first movie. Over the course of several weekends, Chaney, Jones, and their small cast and crew worked on a fairly ambitious film. Chaney connected with Nanette Sorensen, who produced Singapore Harbor, U.S.A., which Jones worked on, to help finish the film. Though it was originally filmed in 1988, the film, originally titled Wendigo, wouldn’t see a release until 1994. Once Troma picked it up, they released it under the title Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    On Manitou Island, friends Gary (Ron Asheton) and Dave (David Wogh) are out hunting when they encounter an old man. Referring to himself as The Guardian (Mike Missler), Gary accidentally shoots him, which breaks the circle holding the Wendigo captive. Meanwhile, The Guardian visits his granddaughter Sandy (Lori Baker) as a ghost to tell her she must reseal the Wendigo. She hires Duke (John Mietelka) to fly her to the island, only for the plane to crash after he’s killed. Elsewhere, Gary’s with his friends Peter (Patrick Butler), Tony (Tom Franks), Nick (Alan Madlane), and Jerry (John Bussard). Along with new guy Leo Phillipe (Devlin Burton), the group encounters chili monsters, witches disguised as centerfolds, and the Wendigo. Before long, the guys are gradually picked off one by one by the Wendigo until only a few are left. Will Sandy successfully reseal the Wendigo, or will she suffer its wrath?

     

    Review

    Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo is one of those movies you’ll either love or hate depending on your expectations. If you’re looking for a low-budget schlocky monster movie with gore and nudity, you’ll more than likely enjoy this. Given that this was made by guys with experience in special effects, those are the movie’s main selling point. For the most part, the effects look pretty decent given the low budget they had to work with. There are some decent gore effects and some fun stop-motion animation sequences that’ll satisfy fans of practical effects. Admittedly, the old man makeup used for The Guardian looks decent in wide shots, but in close-up looks terrible. Some optical effects are thrown in that add to the film’s low-budget charm, particularly towards the finale. Also, the design of the titular Wendigo is pretty cool and easily the best part of the film.

    Unfortunately, what this movie has in terms of effects lacks in story and characters, which are pretty lacking. Granted, something like this shouldn’t require a deep story and nuanced characters, but this doesn’t give much to work with. We hardly get to know anything about the characters other than their names and maybe some ancillary background information. It doesn’t help either that almost everyone is giving a fairly sub-par performance that’s neither good nor bad but forgettable. Ron Asheton and Lori Baker are at least trying given the small amount of material they’re given to work with. Also, in between the scenes of monsters and gore, the film is padded out with tons of filler. These scenes ultimately lead to nothing and drag down the pacing of a fairly short film at under 90 minutes. Overall, Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo is an average monster movie worth watching once.

     

    Buy Frostbiter: Wrath of the Wendigo from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2S6faIR

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

  • Aliens (1986)

    Aliens (1986)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

    On a budget of roughly $11 million, Alien grossed between $150-$200 million at the box office despite receiving mixed reviews. Overtime, the film has since been reevaluated and is now considered one of the greatest sci-fi films of all time. With its success, Brandywine was eager to produce a sequel, but 20th Century Fox claimed that the film actually lost money. This led to Brandywine suing Fox over not receiving profits for the film, which was eventually resolved in 1983. In searching for a screenwriter to pen the screenplay, Brandywine found a then up-and-coming James Cameron, who loved the original. Cameron wanted his film to be a true follow-up, not a remake, and incorporate his work on Galaxy of Terror. After The Terminator became a huge hit in 1984, Fox was convinced to allow Cameron the chance to direct. Following a long delayed production, Aliens was released in July 1986.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”95″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_circle_counter][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]

    Synopsis

    57 years after the first film, Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) is awoken from her hyper-sleep by her employers, Weyland-Yutani. She learns that LV-426, the planet where her crew found the derelict spacecraft, has been terraformed and colonized. When the company loses contact with the colony, representative Carter Burke (Paul Reiser) and Lieutenant Gorman (William Hope) see Ripley. They ask her to accompany them along with a team of colonial marines to investigate the colony as an advisor. She agrees on the condition that they destroy the Xenomorphs, which Burke agrees to, so they set off for LV-426. Upon arrival, they find the colony largely deserted, but soon, the marines are picked off one by one. Ripley, Burke, Gorman, Hicks (Michael Biehn), Hudson (Bill Paxton), Vasquez (Jenette Goldstein), and Bishop (Lance Henriksen) are the only survivors. With very limited resources, who will survive against the threat of the aliens?

     

    Review

    Aliens is one of those rare examples of a sequel being just as good as the original film. While having a different tone from the original, it still feels like it takes place within the same universe. Given the scope of the production, it’s crazy to think that the film was made on an $18.5 million budget. This can be attributed to Cameron and his crew working with Roger Corman and learning how to stretch a budget. In fact, you can see many similarities between what he did on Galaxy of Terror and what he did here. From the planet’s landscape to the design of the marines’ equipment, it’s clear Cameron perfected what he learned under Corman. While this is more action than horror, Cameron manages to add some tense and suspenseful moments akin to the original. At the same time, he stages some amazingly exciting action sequences.

    Acting-wise, everyone is delivering 100%, starting with Sigourney Weaver, who further expands her Ellen Ripley role and is much stronger. Michael Biehn, Bill Paxton, Jenette Goldstein, and Lance Henriksen are all exceptional in their roles and have some memorable lines. Paul Reiser is also memorable as the corporate slimeball Burke, who initially seems trustworthy, but soon reveals his true intentions. Lastly, Carrie Henn does a good job as Newt, a young girl traumatized by witnessing her family’s deaths. The creature design from Stan Winston is a solid update of what H.R. Giger started back in 1979. The film also expands on the lore of the first film, including the introduction of the Alien Queen. Whether you watch the theatrical or director’s cut, this is an impressive sci-fi/action film and one of Cameron’s best. Overall, Aliens builds off what the original film started and stands as an excellent sequel.

     

    Buy Aliens from Amazon: https://amzn.to/32MT402

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]