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Category: Cult Films

  • The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie (1989)

    The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie (1989)

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    When Troma started working on a sequel to The Toxic Avenger, times were admittedly tough for the studio. After the failure of Troma’s War, the studio had been blacklisted from Hollywood and relegated to much smaller fare. While they had a $2 million budget, Troma founder Lloyd Kaufman got overly ambitious with his toxic sequel. The original cut of the sequel was four hours long, so naturally, they had to split it in half. The first half was released as The Toxic Avenger Part II in February 1989 while the second half continued. Though the last film was made primarily in Tokyo, this one would return to New York and New Jersey. Much of the cast and crew returned, and Mark Torgl from the original was supposed to return, but he declined. Finally, November 1989 saw the release of The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie.

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    Synopsis

    After running Apocalypse Inc out of Tromaville, the Toxic Avenger (Ron Fazio) has become depressed despite bringing peace to Tromaville. While failing at getting work, Toxie and his blind girlfriend Claire (Phoebe Legere) find a way to restore her eyesight. Unfortunately, the procedure costs more than they can afford, but hope comes when Toxie gets a job opportunity. This comes from Apocalypse Inc, whose Chairman (Rick Collins) offers Toxie money for Claire’s surgery in exchange for his services. He accepts the offer, much to the shock of the Tromaville citizens, who feel betrayed by their so-called hero. Things get worse once Toxie’s ego inflates, and soon he sees how the citizens of Tromaville have rejected him. Toxie eventually learns the error of his ways, works to restore the people’s trust and confronts the Chairman. It’s soon revealed that the Chairman is The Devil himself, and Toxie has to stop him.

     

    Review

    The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie, like its predecessor, has problems but is still fun. From its opening sequence at a video store to the showdown with The Devil, you’re in for a wild ride. Speaking of which, while the opening sequence seems out of place, it’s a great showcase of some cartoonishly grisly effects. Guts are ripped out, faces are erased, arms are crushed in a VCR, and heads are ripped off via mop. Admittedly, the film starts dragging after the opening sequence, especially when they start using stock footage from the last film. The story picks up significantly once Toxie confronts the Chairman/Devil, but there’s only about a half-hour left by then. At slightly under an hour and 45 minutes, the film feels padded and dragged out to reach feature-length. That said, this still provides everything that a Troma fan could ask for.

    Ron Fazio gives another solid performance as Toxie, clearly having fun as the loveable creature of superhuman size and strength. Phoebe Legere is an over-the-top ditz with her performance, though she gets to show off more of her musical talents. Like before, Rick Collins and Lisa Gaye give wonderfully hammy performances as the villains, Rick getting more screentime this time. The scene where he transforms into The Devil is grisly and horrific, just what you’d expect from a Troma film. Michael Jai White and Troma regular Joe Fleishaker make appearances, but they’re relegated to the background with hardly any lines. There are some fun fourth wall jokes thrown in for good measure, though they can sometimes be distracting. Like the last film, this is a bit of a mess, but it’s still a good time. Overall, The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie is enjoyable schlock.

     

    Buy The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3kDg2P6

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  • Dollman vs. Demonic Toys (1993)

    Dollman vs. Demonic Toys (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=”{}”]As mentioned before, Charles Band grew up reading Marvel comics during the 50s and 60s while living in Italy. One aspect of Marvel comics he loved was the crossover, where characters from one storyline would meet up with another. When he got older and started producing his own movies, Band wanted to incorporate crossovers between his own franchises. He tried doing this with 1986’s Eliminators and the anthology Pulse Pounders, but Empire collapsed before he had the opportunity. Once he founded Full Moon, he started up several franchises in the hopes of them crossing over at some point. Originally, Puppet Master 4 was to be a crossover with Demonic Toys, but they decided to go in another direction. Instead, Charles Band decided to crossover Demonic Toys with the earlier hit Dollman, along with adding elements from Bad Channels. The result was the 1993 crossover film, Dollman vs. Demonic Toys.

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    Synopsis

    Intergalactic cop Brick Bardo (Tim Thomerson) is traveling to the small town of Pahoota looking for a recently shrunken-down woman. Said shrunken-down woman is Nurse Ginger (Melissa Behr), who was left 11″ tall after the events of Bad Channels. Meanwhile, Judith Grey (Tracy Scoggins) has been staking out the Toyland Warehouse despite being suspended from the force. After being forced out of the warehouse by the police, Judith seeks out Brick and Ginger to help her out. Though skeptical, the two decide to tagalong and find security guard Ray Vernon (Phil Fondacaro) working with the demonic toys. A firefight ensues, where Ray’s shot, Judith’s shot by the robot Mr. Static, and Brick shoots Mr. Static in response. After Judith dies, Brick makes it his personal mission to take on the remaining demonic toys and stop their plans. Will the demonic toys succeed, or will Brick be able to stop them?

     

    Review

    Dollman vs. Demonic Toys promises a lot from its title, but unfortunately, it doesn’t quite live up to its potential. Having the Dollman squaring up against the Demonic Toys makes sense and should be awesome, and it kind of is. As per usual, Tim Thomerson shines as the wise-cracking Brick Bardo, spouting off one-liners while blasting toys with his gun. Tracy Scoggins also does a good job, clearly having fun with her role and giving it her all. Melissa Behr, on top of being drop-dead gorgeous, has a fun, snarky, and fierce personality as the shrunken-down nurse. The puppet effects are pretty solid, the design of the new Zombietoid standing out as an exaggerated GI Joe. They even use some suits and inflatables for the scenes where the toys share the screen with Dollman. While there’s a clearly noticeable difference, it works for this kind of movie.

    Unfortunately, the film has plenty of flaws that drag it down, preventing it from being a Full Moon classic. For one, about half of the film is comprised of stock footage from the earlier films framed as flashbacks. With only 30 minutes of original footage, the film clocks in at roughly an hour and some change in length. Even by Full Moon standards, that length is pretty anemic considering the material they had to work with. They could’ve expanded upon the lore from the previous films, but they don’t do much of anything with it. Not only that, but they screw around with the continuity of the previous films, most especially Bad Channels. Given the period in Full Moon’s history that this was made, this is quite the sore spot in that era. Overall, Dollman vs. Demonic Toys is ok, but there are better Full Moon movies you could watch.

     

    Buy Dollman vs. Demonic Toys 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.

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    Where to watch Dollman vs. Demonic Toys (1993)

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  • The Children (1980)

    The Children (1980)

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    Carlton J. Albright and Edward Terry were working on ideas for a horror film and they found some unusual inspiration. Being parents themselves, they saw children as being smothering and suffocating, so they thought that would work as something terrifying. Around the same time, the Three Mile Island incident happened, so they decided to incorporate that into the story. Originally, Terry was set to direct, but he had issues with alcohol, and Albright didn’t feel he would work. Instead, he hired Max Kalmanowicz to direct, though much of the cast and crew found him difficult to worth with. Much of the cast was comprised of relatively unknown actors, the biggest star being Martin Shakar from Saturday Night Fever. Around the same time, Sean Cunningham was filming Friday the 13th using the same crew, including composer Harry Manfredini. In June of 1980, The Children was released to drive-ins.

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    Synopsis

    In the New England town of Ravensback, a school bus of kids drives through a cloud of toxic gas. Local sheriff Billy Hart (Gil Rogers) finds the bus abandoned and orders that the town be locked down. The sheriff goes around town trying to find the kids and asking their parents if they’ve seen them. Soon enough, the kids are found, but it turns out they’ve become zombies who are deadly to the touch. As Sheriff Hart and John Freemont (Martin Shakar) are driving around town, the children make quick work of the adults. Their victims include the local shopkeeper Molly (Shannon Bolin), Deputy Harry Timmons (Tracy Griswold), and his girlfriend Suzie (Joy Glaccum). Eventually, the children start closing in on John’s pregnant wife Cathy (Gale Garnett), so he and Hart defend the house. Will they stop the children, or will they become their next victims?

     

    Review

    The Children had the potential to be a fun, trashy exploitation film, but it sadly squanders that potential. The idea of killer radioactive kids is a novel concept, and their pale-faced look is pretty creepy. Also, for a low-budget film, the melting effects are fairly decent, offering some fun cheese to the proceedings. Some shots here and there make the kids especially creepy, such as a shot of their reflection in a window. Plus, this is one of those rare films that isn’t afraid of killing kids, though perhaps a little too much. The plot is pretty straightforward and simple, almost playing like a slight knock-off of Night of the Living Dead. Given the message they went for, parents will probably relate to feeling like their kids are smothering them to death. I’m sure young parents will especially feel the sentiment, like their lives are consumed by their kids.

    Unfortunately, other than the concept and a decent score from Harry Manfredini, the film doesn’t have much else to offer. Even at roughly 90 minutes, the film has very slow pacing, much of it amounting to exploring empty houses. Aside from the occasional scene of kids killing people with radioactive hugs, the film is littered with boring filler scenes. It doesn’t help either that much of the acting is very middle-of-the-road, neither particularly good nor bad, just unmemorable. Plus, there aren’t really any characters to get attached to, aside from probably the Sheriff and John. While they have a creepy look, the kids don’t do much other than stumbling around with their arms out. Like I said before, this could’ve been a fun trashy exploitation film, but it doesn’t deliver on what it had. Overall, The Children isn’t terrible, but it’s hardly what I’d call a horror classic.

     

    Buy The Children from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ZhwD1e

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  • My Bloody Valentine (1981)

    My Bloody Valentine (1981)

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    After the success of Halloween and Friday the 13th, numerous studios were wanting their own piece of the slasher pie. Cinepix Productions, which was headed by Happy Birthday to Me producers André Link and John Dunning, wanted in on this. They hired George Mihalka, who previously directed the 1980 teen sex comedy Pick-Up Summer, to helm the project. For the cast, they mostly hired local Canadian actors, as well as hiring classic television actor Don Francks. With a budget of $2.3 million, they went to film at the Princess Colliery Mine in Nova Scotia. Filming in the mines proved to be difficult due to the limited space and the high levels of methane underground. After filming was completed in November 1980, the film was distributed by Paramount Pictures, who ironically released Friday the 13th. Originally titled The Secret, the film was released as My Bloody Valentine.

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    Synopsis

    The town of Valentine Bluffs is reinstating its annual Valentine’s Day dance after being suspended for twenty years. Way back when, a group of miners was trapped and left for dead while their supervisors went to the dance. The only survivor was Harry Warden (Peter Cowper), who resorted to eating his fellow miners to stay alive. The following year, he killed the two supervisors responsible and vowed to kill again if the dance was reopened. Mayor Hanniger (Larry Reynolds) and Chief Jake Newby (Don Francks) receive an anonymous Valentine chocolate box with a human heart. After resident Mabel (Patricia Hamilton) is murdered, the Mayor and the Chief decide to cancel the dance outright. Meanwhile, the young mine workers, including the mayor’s son T.J. (Paul Kelman) decide to hold a party in the mines. But soon, they’ll be on the end of a pickaxe when Harry Warden shows up.

     

    Review

    My Bloody Valentine is a very underrated slasher film amongst the glut of slashers that were released in 1981. Setting in a coal mine was a nice change of pace from the usual summer camp or sorority house. Not only is it in pure darkness, but the enclosed spaces add a sense of claustrophobia to heighten the tension. Also, the look of the killer is very unique, the sounds of his breathing through the gas mask extra creepy. Admittedly, it does follow the typical plot of a bad thing that happened years ago is happening again years later. Still, it works for this film, and the backstory established makes you almost sympathize with Harry Warden, but not entirely. There’s also a love triangle subplot, which ordinarily brings a film down, but here it adds to the plot. It adds tension and further develops the characters.

    Speaking of the characters, while the acting is pretty solid, many of the characters are largely forgettable. Then again, most slasher films of the time weren’t interested in deep characterization, but rather having several characters to kill. On that note, the kills are fairly gruesome, and the effects by Tom Burman are impressive given the small budget. Admittedly, many of these sequences were cut for the theatrical release, though you can see some small hints of them. Thankfully, the unrated version features all the kills in their uncut glory, and there are some standout kill scenes. At slightly over 90 minutes, the film doesn’t take up much of your time, though the pace drags slightly. Even still, this is a solid slasher film that horror completionists will enjoy, though casual fans might find it dull. Overall, My Bloody Valentine is a bloody good time, especially for those without a Valentine.

     

    Buy My Bloody Valentine from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3jMQTB8

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  • Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn (1983)

    Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn (1983)

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    After Parasite 3D was a moderate success, Charles Band wanted to make another 3D movie, but in a different genre. At the time, post-apocalyptic movies set in the desert were popular following the success of The Road Warrior. Also, numerous sci-fi epics were released to capitalize on Star Wars, including Krull and Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone. With this in mind, Band decided to combine elements of both to create a new 3D sci-fi epic adventure. In true Charles Band fashion, he raised funding by preselling the film to investors based on a concept and poster. After getting a budget together, they started their three-week shoot at Vasquez Rocks, one of the most famous filming locations. Charles Band was able to get distribution through Universal, who wanted another 3D film to release after Jaws 3D. Finally, August of 1983 saw the release of Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn.

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    Synopsis

    On the desert planet Lemuria, ranger Dogen (Jeffrey Byron) is tracking down the intergalactic sorcerer Jared-Syn (Michael Preston). He meets local miner Dhyana (Kelly Preston), who witnessed her father be murdered by Jared-Syn’s son Baal (R. David Smith). She teams up with Dogen to hunt down Jared-Syn, but she gets kidnapped after Dogen is paralyzed by Baal. Soon, Dogen meets Rhodes (Tim Thomerson), a washed-up soldier who reluctantly agrees to help him in his quest. Turns out to defeat Jared-Syn, they must find a crystal mask used by an ancient race called the Cyclopians. They find the mask, only to be ambushed by nomads known as “One-Eyes” led by Hurok (Richard Moll). After challenging Dogen to a duel and losing, Hurok agrees to help him take on Jared-Syn and his forces. It’s high noon at the end of the universe as Dogen must rescue Dhyana and defeat Jared-Syn!

     

    Review

    Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn, on top of having a great title, is an enjoyable if somewhat derivative sci-fi adventure. While you can clearly tell what movies they’re taking elements from, they uniquely use them to create their own story. They essentially took the post-apocalyptic look of The Road Warrior and mixed it with elements of sci-fi fantasy films. You’ve got the leather-clad hero, the desert landscape, the vehicles made of recycled parts, and numerous car stunts. Said leather-clad hero is played by Jeffrey Byron, who brings plenty of charisma and likability to the role. Michael Preston makes for a great villain and is taking the otherwise ridiculous material seriously, giving a solid performance. Tim Thomerson, who later starred in the Empire classic Trancers, delivers the same wit and sarcastic attitude he’s known for. As soon as he arrives, the film picks up significantly and becomes much more entertaining.

    Richard Moll gives a very stern and imposing performance as the one-eyed Hurok, though he doesn’t have much screentime. The late Kelly Preston works as the love interest Dhyana, though her and Byron’s romance comes almost out of nowhere. Admittedly, the pacing is a bit sluggish, as there are tons of scenes consisting of characters either driving or walking. Plus, the plot can be somewhat hard to follow at times, especially since not much of what’s happening is explained. The action picks up in the second half, and at slightly over 80 minutes, the film never overstays its welcome. For the budget they had, many of the creature designs are impressive, though some of the composites haven’t aged well. There are some fun 3D sequences and Richard Band’s score adds to the film’s sense of fun and adventure. Overall, Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn works as fun ’80s sci-fi cheese.

     

    Buy Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3pdq2iP

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  • Battle for Terra (2007)

    Battle for Terra (2007)

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    Born in Montreal in 1967, Aristomenis Tsirbas graduated from Concordia University with a degree in film production. He moved to Los Angeles in 1996, and he worked on the visual effects for James Cameron’s Titanic. After working on the visual effects for My Favorite Martian in 1999, Tsirbas worked on several animated short films. One of his shorts was Terra in 2002, which he decided to turn into a full-length feature film. He originally wanted it to be live-action with photo-real CGI backgrounds, but producing partner Snoot Entertainment had other ideas. They decided to have the project be fully animated and toned down from its original hard-edge to reach younger audiences. After premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2007, the film was delayed to convert the film to 3D. Finally, Battle for Terra saw a wide release in May of 2009 in both 2D and 3D.

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    Synopsis

    On the planet Terra, the inhabitants live a peaceful existence, though advanced technology is strictly forbidden without the council’s approval. One night, Mala (Evan Rachel Wood) builds a telescope and sees some scout ships arriving to abduct Terrarians. She manages to crash one of the scout ships, though she rescues the pilot, Lt James “Jim” Stanton (Luke Wilson). After nursing him back to health, she helps recover his ship, but if he rescues her father Roven (Dennis Quaid). Through Jim’s robot Giddy (David Cross), Mala learns that humanity is dying and in search of a new home. While looking for Jim’s ship, they discover that the Terran leader Doron (James Garner) has been keeping Terra’s military technology. Meanwhile, General Hemmer (Brian Cox) is planning to launch an assault on Terra to terraform and conquer the planet. Who will survive in the Battle for Terra?

     

    Review

    While not an amazing animated sci-fi film, Battle for Terra is a very unique film that’s worth a one-time viewing. It has an interesting story that takes familiar story tropes and puts a few different spins on it. For one, neither the humans nor the Terrarians are presented as all good and all evil, each being more complex. The Terrarians are living a peaceful existence unaware of the advanced weapons technology their leaders are hiding from them. Meanwhile, the humans are just looking for a new home while avoiding the mistakes their ancestors made to ensure survival. Even if you disagree with the methods of either group, you can understand where each is coming from. There’s also a lot of interesting lore and backstory to both groups, and it makes you want to learn more. It’s a great example of using existing tropes to craft an interesting story.

    Given the film had a $4 million budget, the animation is decent and flows well, though it hasn’t aged well. The Terrarians and humans all have a similar design, which can make it hard to distinguish between who is who. Granted, there are some small changes made for the main characters, but they’re very minor and aren’t all that noticeable. Voice-acting wise, everyone does a fine job, particularly Evan Rachel Wood, Luke Wilson, David Cross, and Brian Cox. Cox easily stands out as General Hammer, delivering a very commanding performance and giving the character plenty of gravitas. Classic actor James Garner does a decent job as Doron, the Terran leader, though there isn’t much to his character. There are some fun action sequences, and at roughly 80 minutes, the film won’t take up much of your time. Overall, Battle for Terra isn’t great, but it’s a decent rental.

     

    Buy Battle for Terra from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3tok4z2

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  • Happy Birthday to Me (1981)

    Happy Birthday to Me (1981)

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    After John Carpenter’s Halloween was a massive hit in 1978, Sean Cunningham’s Friday the 13th was released in 1980. That film was also a major hit, and soon other studios were wanting to make their own slasher film. Producers John Dunning and André Link wanted to capitalize on this with their own slasher film with a unique gimmick. They decided to base it around birthdays to achieve universal appeal, as well as incorporating a brain injury subplot. J. Lee Thompson, best known for The Guns of Navarone and the original Cape Fear, was hired to direct. For the lead, they hired actress Melissa Sue Anderson, famous for the hit TV series Little House on the Prarie. Classic actor Glenn Ford, who had earlier played Pa Kent in 1978’s Superman, was cast in an important supporting role. Despite some production problems, Happy Birthday to Me was released in May of 1981.

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    Synopsis

    At Crawford Academy, Virginia “Ginny” Wainwright (Melissa Sue Anderson) is part of the school’s “Top Ten” popular and privileged students. After their friend Bernadette (Lesleh Donaldson) goes missing, the rest of the group soon start getting picked off. Meanwhile, Ginny is dealing with repressed memories brought on by experimental brain surgery following a horrific trauma she suffered. She confides in her psychiatrist Dr. Faraday (Glenn Ford), who was one of the doctors behind the surgery. Soon, her friends are getting killed in various ways, such as by motorcycle, by weights, and by shish kebab. As more and more of her fellow Top Ten are being murdered, Ginny starts seeing visions suggesting that she’s responsible. Through her repressed memories, we learn about how she survived a car accident where her mother (Sharon Acker) drowned. It all culminates in a truly horrific birthday party that you’ll never soon forget.

     

    Review

    Compared to other slashes, Happy Birthday to Me is pretty standard, though it has some things going for it. Given the director’s background, it’s a good-looking film, using plenty of harsh, moody lighting and dynamic camera angles. Also, the acting is pretty good, Melissa Sue Anderson giving the strongest performance, coming off as both sympathetic and menacing. While he clearly looks like he’s slumming it, Glenn Ford does the best he can with the material. The subplot involving Ginny’s brain surgery and her having vivid hallucinations adds an extra layer of depth to the story. Some of the kills are pretty unique, especially the shish kebab kill, and the effects work done is fairly solid. The finale where all the victims are seated at a table is a haunting image, definitely one of the highlights. Even still, there’s plenty that’s working against the film.

    While there are some unique kill scenes, they’re pretty standard and not nearly as bizarre as the marketing says. Granted, that’s common with many slashers of the time trying to oversell themselves and not living up to expectations. Also, at slightly under two hours in length, the film feels padded with content that isn’t entirely necessary. Without giving any spoilers, the ending twist comes out of nowhere, though it was added at the last minute. It’s not even a case where you can watch the movie again and see little hints along the way. Honestly, the original motivations, though convoluted, would’ve been more satisfying than what the twist suggests, which comes off as ridiculous. Even still, this is an interesting entry in the horror genre that completionists might enjoy at least for the kills. Overall, Happy Birthday to Me is a decent if somewhat forgettable slasher.

     

    Buy Happy Birthday to Me from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3cBiwM7

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  • Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown (1991)

    Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown (1991)

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    Released in 1986, Class of Nuke ‘Em High was another major hit for Troma Entertainment, still vying for mainstream status. Unfortunately, following the disastrous release of Troma’s War, Troma had to majorly restructure themselves to try and stay afloat. One attempt they made to try and appeal to mainstream audiences was Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D., but that was a failure. While working on that film, Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz noticed wrestler-turned-actor Jeffrey Beltzner under the pseudonym Brick Bronsky. They liked him so much that they offered him the lead role in an upcoming sequel to their ’86 hit. They hired Eric Louzil, who previously directed Lust for Freedom and Fortress of Amerikkka and produced Sizzle Beach USA. However, rather than being a direct sequel, Louzil decided to make his own standalone film separate from the original. In 1991, Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown was released.

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    Synopsis

    The Tromaville nuclear reactor has been rebuilt by the Nukamama Corporation, who’ve incorporated it into a new college. Dubbed the Tromaville Institute of Technology (T.I.T.), student Roger Smith (Brick Bronsky) is an aspiring reporter for the college paper. Unbeknownst to him, the science teacher Professor Holt (Lisa Gaye) is creating an army of subhumanoids for the Nukamama Corporation. While she has noble intentions, Dean Okra (Scott Resnick) wants to use the subhumanoids for the corporation’s nefarious deeds. During a sexual experiment, Roger meets and falls in love with Victoria (Leesa Rowland), who turns out is a subhumanoid. Also, it turns out the subhumanoids are melting down, meaning that Victoria will meet the same fate. With time running out and the school in chaos, Roger must find a way to save his new girlfriend. It’s a subhumanoid meltdown coming on through, and we’re dead anyway, so let’s fall to a goo!

     

    Review

    Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown is a bit of a disjointed mess, but it’s a fun mess. Even though it wasn’t directed by Lloyd Kaufman, this still feels like a typical Troma film in style and tone. There’s plenty of nudity, gore, and overall craziness to satisfy the most hardcore Troma fans, but at a cost. The film’s biggest problem is the pacing, as it takes a good 30-40 minutes for the plot to kick in. Many scenes in the film feel like isolated skits that have nothing to do with the overall movie. Granted, Troma films aren’t really known for having deep, intricate plots, but it’s hard to stay interested when it drags. Also, with some exceptions, none of the characters are particularly memorable, including The Squirrels, this movie’s version of The Cretins. Aside from their wacky appearances, they don’t do much.

    That said, there are some bright spots in the cast, particularly Brick Bronsky, Lisa Gaye, Leesa Rowland, and Scott Resnick. Bronsky acts as the film’s straight man, and he works thanks to his charisma, humor, and impressive physique. It’s easy to see how Kaufman and Herz saw potential in Bronsky to become a star in his own right. Returning from The Toxic Avenger Part II, Lisa Gaye is once again hamming up her role with glee. Scott Resnick is pretty fun as the corrupt yet unusually high-pitched dean, and Leesa Rowland has solid chemistry with Bronsky. The finale is easily the best part of the movie, as there’s tons of destruction, chaos, and mayhem. Plus, we get the introduction of the fan-favorite character Tromie the Radioactive Squirrel, though it only slightly validates the film. Overall, Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown is an enjoyable if disjointed mess.

     

    Buy Class of Nuke ‘Em High 2: Subhumanoid Meltdown from Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NM52mf

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  • Fade to Black (1980)

    Fade to Black (1980)

    [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=”{}”]After working for Paramount and Warner Bros., Irwin Yablans decided to get into producing and distributing his own films. In 1976, he founded Compass International Pictures with Joseph Wolf, and they scored big with the release of 1978’s Halloween. While thinking of his next project, he thought of the idea of a movie nerd being pushed over the limits. Yablans hired writer/director Vernon Zimmerman, who was invested in the project, though he and Yablans butted heads at times. For the lead role, they hired Dennis Christopher, who recently earned a Golden Globe nomination for 1979’s Breaking Away. Australian actress Linda Kerridge was also cast for the female lead due to her resemblance to Marilyn Monroe. Unfortunately, the film was plagued with production issues from a grueling schedule to clashing ideologies between Zimmerman and Yablans. Finally, in October of 1980, Fade to Black was given a limited theatrical release.

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    Synopsis

    Eric Binford (Dennis Christopher) is a shy, awkward guy who’s obsessed with movies and works for a film distribution warehouse. He lives with his overbearing Aunt Stella (Eve Brent Ashe), who chastises him for his obsession and poor health. He’s bullied by coworkers Bart (Hennen Chambers) and Richie (Mickey Rourke) and hassled by his boss Mr. Berger (Norman Burton). One day, he meets Australian model Marilyn O’Connor (Linda Kerridge) and becomes infatuated with her since she resembles Marilyn Monroe. They agree to go out one night, but after she accidentally stands him up, Eric starts going crazy. He dresses up as his favorite movie characters – Dracula, The Mummy, Hopalong Cassidy, and Cody Jarrett – and starts killing people. Meanwhile, criminal psychologist Dr. Jerry Moriarty (Tim Thomerson) is trying to find Eric and hopefully help him with his psychosis. Unfortunately, Eric might be too far gone to be saved.

     

    Review

    Fade to Black works as both a horror film and a deep character study of a man tormented by obsession. Dennis Christopher is outstanding as Eric Binford, expertly making the character creepy and terrifying, yet oddly sympathetic and likable. While the film doesn’t glorify the things he does, it shows how a man plagued with obsession can grow insane. It helps that Christopher was dedicated to the material, wanting to expand his character and committing fully to the role. Tim Thomerson is hilarious as Dr. Moriarty, though he’s able to get serious when needed and has plenty of charisma. Linda Kerridge, on top of her good looks and resemblance to Marilyn Monroe, does a great job acting opposite Christopher. You get the feeling that she genuinely cared for Eric and wanted to help him, which makes their romance tragic. Also, a then relatively unknown Mickey Rourke gives a solid performance.

    Regardless of the behind-the-scenes issues, Vernon Zimmerman does a great job behind the camera, giving scenes a dark, dreamlike quality. When Eric dons his costumes and kills those who’ve wronged him, it’s shot like a movie the character came from. There are also times where they use clips from films like Horror of Dracula and White Heat to great effect. Craig Safan’s score adds a somewhat chaotic yet beautiful feel to the film that goes along with the material. Admittedly, the film can get somewhat predictable, since you know what’ll happen once Eric sports a certain costume. Also, certain plot points either go nowhere, seem thrown in at the last minute, or aren’t fully fleshed out. Regardless, this is still an effective horror-thriller and a fascinating character study that acts as a send-up of old Hollywood. Overall, Fade to Black is a hidden gem that deserves to be rediscovered.

     

    Buy Fade to Black from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4elMQ9W.

    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.

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    Where to watch Fade to Black (1980)

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  • The Pit and the Pendulum (1991)

    The Pit and the Pendulum (1991)

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    Around 1989, Empire Pictures went into bankruptcy and collapsed after many of its assets had been sold off. Thankfully, founder Charles Band was able to bounce back and form a new production company, Full Moon Features. He managed to find success early on with Puppet Master, Meridian: Kiss of the Beast, Shadowzone, and Crash and Burn. Meanwhile, director Stuart Gordon was planning on filming an adaptation of Edgar Allen Poe’s The Pit and the Pendulum. He originally conceived of it as a $6 million film starring Peter O’Toole, Billy Dee Williams, and Sherilyn Fenn. Unfortunately, plans for this fell through, but fortunately, Full Moon picked up the project, though for a reduced budget. This lower budget meant some changes, such as filming in Italy and casting Lance Henriksen in place of Peter O’Toole. Finally, in mid-1991, Stuart Gordon’s The Pit and the Pendulum was released.

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    Synopsis

    In 1492 Spain, the Grand Inquisitor Torquemada (Lance Henriksen) sadistically tortures those he believes are heretics, sinners, and witches. During a public execution, Maria (Rona De Ricci) speaks out against it despite her husband Antonio’s (Jonathan Fuller) pleas. Torquemada is immediately smitten with her, but fears it’s witchcraft, so he has her arrested, leaving her husband behind. With his assistants Francisco (Jeffrey Combs), Mendoza (Mark Margolis), and Dr. Huesos (William Morris), Torquemada tortures Maria until she confesses. During this, Torquemada starts lusting over Maria, which he views as sinful, so he subjects himself to torture. While imprisoned, Maria befriends Esmerelda (Frances Bay), a confessed witch who helps her stay strong against the wicked Torquemada. Meanwhile, Antonio tries breaking into the castle to save Maria, but he ends up getting caught and taken prisoner. What horrors await when our heroes must come face to face with The Pit and the Pendulum?

     

    Review

    Much like their other earlier films, The Pit and the Pendulum is another excellent entry in Full Moon’s catalog. The use of a real Italian castle adds production value and makes the film look more expensive than it was. As with his earlier films, Stuart Gordon’s direction is on-point, using tons of dynamic lighting and shadows to establish mood. Lance Henriksen gives a phenomenal performance as Torquemada, playing the part with such intensity that you’re genuinely frightened of him. Rona De Ricci, who sadly never appeared in a film after this, does a wonderful job giving an emotional performance. The dynamic between her and Henriksen is the film’s highlight, her pure innocence clashing with his harsh religious nature. There’s a brief appearance by Oliver Reed, who gives a great performance as a Cardinal visiting from The Vatican. Also, Frances Bay is great as Esmerelda, slightly hamming it up.

    Jonathan Fuller, though not bad and having decent chemistry with Ricci, comes off a little bland and uninteresting. The biggest problem with the film is that the tone is slightly off at times, flip-flopping between serious and humorous. Ordinarily, Gordon is good at balancing horror with comedy, but here, it doesn’t quite work and it comes off distracting. For instance, Jeffrey Combs, who does a good job, is clearly meant for somewhat comedic relief, albeit slightly dry. William Morris and Stephen Lee definitely add to the comedy, which clashes with the more serious tone going on. Also, the titular “Pit and the Pendulum” doesn’t appear until the last act, and even then it’s not used much. There are some fun swashbuckling action and impressive effects to be had, but the tone clashes hinder the film’s quality. Overall, The Pit and the Pendulum isn’t perfect, but it’s definitely worth a watch.

     

    Buy The Pit and The Pendulum 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.

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    Where to watch The Pit and the Pendulum (1991)

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