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  • Killjoy’s Psycho Circus (2016)

    Killjoy’s Psycho Circus (2016)

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    While working on Killjoy Goes to Hell, writer/producer/editor/effects supervisor/director John Lechago started planning the next film. For the next installment, Lechago wanted to explore Killjoy and Batty Boop’s relationship, mortality, and life on Earth. However, Charles Band seemed reluctant to keep the series going, emphasizing Unlucky Charms and Gingerdead Man vs. Evil Bong more. Around this time, Full Moon launched fundraising campaigns to finance future movies while giving back to the fans. Through IndieGogo, Full Moon was able to fund 2016’s Evil Bong: High-5 and 2017’s Puppet Master: Axis Termination. The company decided to run a campaign for fans to contribute towards the 5th Evil Bong and Killjoy movies. After raising over $30,000, Lechago got to work on the 5-day shoot, mostly on sets at Full Moon Features. So, sixteen years after the original film, Killjoy’s Psycho Circus premiered on the El Rey Network in 2016.

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    Synopsis

    After escaping judgment in Hell, the demonic clown Killjoy (Trent Haaga) now runs a late-night talk show. Dubbed Psycho Circus, he runs the show with his old troupe mates Freakshow (Tai Chan Ngo) and Punchy (Al Burke). In Hell, Beelzebub (Stephen F. Cardwell) is stripped of his rank as an archdemon for failing to bring Killjoy back. Beelzebub asks for a second chance, so he’s given a spaceship and a co-pilot named Jezebel (Lauren Nash). Meanwhile, Killjoy’s old girlfriend, Batty Boop (Victoria De Mare), catches the show and is shocked to see her replacement. After getting rid of her imposter, Luanne (Robin Sydney), Batty gets Killjoy to take her back, which he reluctantly does. During all this, Beelzebub challenges Killjoy, sending his Six Psychos and threatening to destroy Earth’s major cities. With his spaceship and an arsenal of weapons, Killjoy sets out to confront Beelzebub once and for all!

     

    Review

    Of John Lechago’s trilogy, Killjoy’s Psycho Circus is by far the most ambitious and significant film, though not without issues. To start with what works, the acting is still as wildly entertaining as in past movies. Trent Haaga, again, is the highlight of the film, spouting off tons of vulgarities while adding a devilish charm. Likewise, Victoria De Mare is having a blast playing the seductive yet plucky Batty Boop with her squeaky accent. Despite her minor role, Robin Sydney is also fun reprising her character from Evil Bong as a Batty Boop knockoff. Tom Devlin’s makeup effects are fantastic as always, and the CGI, while not the greatest, is decent, given the budget. It’s about on par with the CGI in Sharknado, but I feel it wasn’t meant to be intentionally bad. This isn’t going to win any Oscars, but I doubt Lechago is a lazy filmmaker.

    While ostensibly a B-movie, Lechago tries injecting some social satire, poking fun at commercialism and humanity. There are gags with Killjoy arguing with a sponsor, Killjoy mentioning his merchandise, and Killjoy meeting his ravenous fans. They even poke fun at themselves with a memorable scene of Killjoy arguing with Trent Haaga over Ángel Vargas. Admittedly, many of the jokes tend to fall flat, but a few made me chuckle here and there. Also, some of the acting does come off either bland or annoying, particularly from Lauren Nash and Tim Chizmar. Plus, even at just slightly under ninety minutes, several scenes go on for way longer than necessary. Still, considering this is the fifth installment in a franchise about a demonic clown, it’s not half bad. Overall, Killjoy’s Psycho Circus is on par with the last few films, for better or worse.

     

    Buy Killjoy’s Psycho Circus from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LDXbTk.

    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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  • Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (1974)

    Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (1974)

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_3,1_3″ admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.21.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]1973’s Godzilla vs. Megalon was an all-time low for the series, selling less than one million tickets in Japan. Despite the declining popularity, producer Tomoyuki Tanaka still saw some potential in keeping the series going. While staying in Okinawa, Tanaka felt that the Pacific island would make for an excellent setting for a Godzilla movie. With the growing popularity of giant robots in Japanese media, Toho decided to pit Godzilla against a robotic enemy. Series regular Jun Fukuda returned to direct, and the cast featured returning actors Akihiko Hirata, Hiroshi Koizumi, and Kenji Sahara. While the previous films appealed more to kids, Toho made this entry with nostalgic audiences in mind. In March 1974, Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla roared onto Japanese screens, followed by a US release in 1977. In America, the film was released as Godzilla vs. the Bionic Monster and Godzilla vs. the Cosmic Monster.

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    Synopsis

    On Okinawa, Princess Nami (Beru-Bera Lin) has a prophecy that a giant monster will destroy the city. Meanwhile, Masahiko Shimizu (Kazuya Aoyama) discovers a new type of metal and has Professor Hideto Miyajima (Akihiko Hirata) examine it. Elsewhere, Godzilla emerges from Mt. Fuji, goes on a rampage, and fights Anguirus, who chips away Godzilla’s skin, revealing metal. Later, the real Godzilla shows up, revealing the imposter as Mechagodzilla, a giant robot duplicate with advanced weaponry. Miyajima determines that Mechagodzilla is made of the same strange metal, which turns out to be “space titanium.” Our heroes are confronted by a group of ape-like aliens led by Kuronuma (Gorō Mutsumi), who controls Mechagodzilla. To aid in the fight, Nami summons the guardian monster, King Caesar, to team up with Godzilla. As the monsters battle, our heroes must stop the aliens from using their advanced technology to rule the world!

     

    Review

    After several underwhelming entries in the Showa Era, Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla is a godsend and a refreshing change of pace. Sure, the film has that campy Saturday matinee feel like the earlier ones, but it’s done much better here. This film doesn’t use any stock footage from previous movies to compensate for the lack of budget. Also, there’s no annoying child character added in an attempt to further appeal to kids, which is a big plus. Of Godzilla’s many adversaries, Mechagodzilla is one of the most memorable, with his array of missiles, rainbow lasers, and forcefield. Masaru Sato’s score perfectly complements Mechagodzilla, having a vibrant, jazzy feel that instantly sticks in your mind. His theme more than makes up for some of the other music cues, which sound ill-fittingly lighthearted and whimsical. Plus, there’s the song Nami sings to awaken King Caesar, which goes on for what feels like forever.

    Speaking of King Caesar, he’s one of Toho’s most unique kaiju, having been inspired by Chinese legends. It’s a shame he didn’t return until Godzilla: Final Wars because his tag-team match with Godzilla against Mechagodzilla is entertaining. It’s a visual onslaught of lasers, explosions, WWE-style smackdowns, and other crazy stuff that makes the film worth watching. Regarding the human plot, it’s an odd mix of a sci-fi movie and a spy thriller with some mysticism. Unlike the human stories in other Godzilla films, this one is more engaging and works with the monster fights well. It’s also lovely to see several actors from previous kaiju films return for this one, and they’re all great. Yes, this movie is goofy and reuses elements from other films, but it’s still an entertaining thrill ride. Overall, Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla ranks as one of the best films of the Showa era.

     

    Buy Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4f7RrxC.

    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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  • Klown Kamp Massacre (2010)

    Klown Kamp Massacre (2010)

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    Growing up in the suburbs of Albuquerque, friends Philip H.R. Gunn and David Carlos Valdez found ways to avoid boredom. At some point, Valdez’s mother gave him a camcorder which he and Gunn used to shoot various short films. Their first homemade feature was 1994’s Edwin: The Tragic Story of the Clown Who Couldn’t Make Anybody Laugh. Over the years, the two worked together on numerous short projects before they decided to try making a feature film. Being huge fans of horror films like Friday the 13th and A Nightmare on Elm Street, they decided on that. They took the character Edwin and put him in a slasher film where he goes around killing other clowns. On a shoestring budget, filming lasted 15 days on a cattle ranch outside Cuba, NM, in 2009. Troma acquired the rights the following year and released Klown Kamp Massacre on DVD.

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    Synopsis

    In 1991, Edwin the Clown (Jared Herholtz) went on a murder spree at Clown Camp and was never found. It’s now 15 years later, and the camp’s owner, Bonzo (Mike Miller), has decided to reopen despite the horrible tragedy. Brothers Vinnie (Nick Lopez) and Lenny (Reuben Finkelstein) decide to attend along with Tipsy (Matt Sanford) and Brandi (Tara Hahn). Also arriving are Philbert (Ross Kelly), Puff (Chris Payne), Squirts (Sandor Gattyan), Buzter Pie (Isaac Kappy), and Gerald (Daniel Gutierrez). These clowns are put through the wringer in learning to be funny, unaware that Edwin has returned to kill. While all this is happening, a romance between Philbert and Bonzo’s granddaughter Valerie (Kerri Duabe) starts blossoming. Unfortunately for our lovebirds, their fellow clowns are stabbed, shredded, beaten, melted, and even blown up increasingly gruesomely. Who will be the next victim and survive this Klown Kamp Massacre?

     

    Review

    If you go into a movie called Klown Kamp Massacre expecting an intelligent, thought-provoking experience, look elsewhere. Gunn and Valdez wanted to make a goofy film about a clown killing other clowns, and that’s what we get. This movie isn’t trying to be the next great horror movie; there’s nothing wrong with that. Sometimes, an 84-minute slasher about clowns getting killed in absurdly gruesome ways is all you need. To the filmmakers’ credit, they accomplished quite a lot with a minimal budget, like impressive practical effects and decent camerawork. Two kills in particular that stand out involve a seltzer bottle filled with acid and an exploding pie. Also, the night scenes are filled with fog and colored lighting, giving them a spooky feeling. Plus, a few dynamic camera angles help keep the action moving without getting too overwhelming. Gunn and Valdez show a lot of potential here.

    Given the subject matter, the acting is intentionally goofy, and while it isn’t great, there are a few standouts. Jared Herholtz sells the part of a struggling clown who ended up snapping because he couldn’t be funny. Kerri Duabe is likable as Valerie, who gets a whole backstory about childhood abuse, which adds some depth. Granted, this kind of film trying to handle such a sensitive subject might seem distasteful, so proceed with caution. Admittedly, most of the humor is pretty juvenile, relying on gross-out gags and sex jokes, but that’s Troma for you. The ending threw me for a loop without going into spoilers, so I must give them credit. As I alluded to early on, this isn’t the next great horror film, but it’s not trying to be. Overall, Klown Kamp Massacre is one of those movies best enjoyed with friends and your ideal substances.

     

    Buy Klown Kamp Massacre from Amazon: https://amzn.to/40BxdUL.

    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 Klown Kamp Massacre (2010)

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  • Evil Dead Rise (2023)

    Evil Dead Rise (2023)

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    After the release of Army of Darkness in 1992, the series laid dormant, although there were talks of another sequel. Following years of development hell, audiences were treated with a remake in 2013 from first-time director Fede Álvarez. The remake received primarily positive reviews and was a commercial hit, grossing $97.5 million against a $17 million budget. With the renewed interest in the property, Raimi’s Army of Darkness 2 became the Ash vs. Evil Dead TV series. While a sequel to Álvarez’s remake was discussed, these plans were scrapped, but a new film was announced in 2019. Sam Raimi, Rob Tapert, and Bruce Campbell would produce, with Lee Cronin (The Hole in the Ground) as director. The movie was filmed in New Zealand in 2021 and was slated for a direct-to-streaming release on HBO Max. However, after positive test screenings, Evil Dead Rise got a theatrical release in April 2023.

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    Synopsis

    Ellie (Alyssa Sutherland) is a single mother raising her kids Danny (Morgan Davies), Bridget (Gabrielle Echols), and Kassie (Nell Fisher). She gets a visit from her sister Beth (Lily Sullivan), who recently found out she was pregnant. An earthquake at their apartment building opens a hole leading to an underground vault that Danny decides to investigate. He finds a strange book and some vinyl records and brings them to the apartment to learn more. The records are recordings that reveal the book is the Naturom Demonto, roughly translated as the Book of the Dead. The book was found by priests who translated it secretly and recorded the chants, which awakened an ancient evil. Said evil possesses Ellie and soon spreads throughout the apartment complex as Beth tries to protect the kids. Will our heroes survive the night or end up dead by dawn?

     

    Review

    Given my love of the series, I was very skeptical when I first saw the trailers for Evil Dead Rise. The movie didn’t look bad, but it felt more like a generic possession movie with “Evil Dead” in the title. Thankfully, Lee Cronin’s entry stands on its own and does the series justice. His directing is incredible, mixing some of Sam Raimi’s camerawork while adding a unique flair. Also, the performances all across the board are fantastic, with Alyssa Sutherland and Lilly Sullivan being the standouts. Sullivan shines as the reluctant but dependable hero who rises to the challenge to take on the Deadites. Sutherland wholly owns the role of the demon-possessed Ellie, mixing a playful charm with a sinister edge. Even the kids perform well in this, which is rare, especially in a horror film. Plus, the other tenets have their little moments to shine.

    Since this is an Evil Dead movie, you’d expect tons of bloody carnage, which this movie delivers. Like the original, this one doesn’t rely solely on gore but instead mixes it with genuine dread and suspense. In keeping with tradition, almost all of the effects are practical, a welcome change from today’s CGI-filled landscape. Roughly 6,500 liters of fake blood were made for this film, and they used every ounce of it on screen. A few references to the original films are also sprinkled in, but it feels more earnest and heartfelt than pandering. Unfortunately, this film doesn’t have the same B-movie charm as the original or Evil Dead II, which is disappointing. Still, at roughly 97 minutes, the movie delivers what fans want while telling a heartfelt story about a broken family. Overall, Evil Dead Rise honors what came before while standing on its own as something special.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “Evil Dead Rise” playing in theaters starting April 21st[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    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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  • Dr. Alien (1989)

    Dr. Alien (1989)

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    Unfortunately, by 1988, Empire Pictures was on the verge of bankruptcy after a series of box office failures. Additionally, the studio owed a substantial debt to Crédit Lyonnais, and they were threatening to buy the studio’s assets. During this period, Scott Spiegel’s Intruder and J.F. Lawton’s Cannibal Women in the Avocado Jungle of Death were in production. David DeCoteau, who directed three movies for Empire, was making a new film with effects artist/writer Kenneth J. Hall. Originally titled I Was a Teenage Sex Mutant, filming commenced in LA for 19 days during the 1988 Writer’s Strike. During production, DeCoteau got word that Empire was going bankrupt but continued filming since the banks were unaware. After Empire folded, Charles Band founded Full Moon Features, using DeCoteau’s movie to strike a deal with Paramount Pictures. The agreement was made, and Paramount released DeCoteau’s film, now retitled Dr. Alien, in 1989.

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    Synopsis

    Wesley Littlejohn (Billy Jacoby) is your average nerdy high schooler who’s constantly picked on and can’t get a girl. His best friend, Marvin (Stuart Fratkin), pressures him to talk to his crush Leanne (Olivia Barash), but he fumbles. Little do they know that they have a new biology teacher, Ms. Xenobia (Judy Landers), who’s more than she seems. She has Wesley stay after class for an experiment that involves her assistant, Drax (Raymond O’Connor), injecting him with “vitamins.” However, it turns out the vitamins make a weird growth sprout from Wesley’s head that makes him irresistible to women. This boosts Wesley’s confidence, leading him to change his wardrobe and sing in a metal band. He even gets to go out with Leanne, but his magnetism for women makes her think he’s cheating on her. On top of it all, Ms. Xenobia is an alien trying to repopulate her homeworld!

     

    Review

    Let’s get this out of the way: Dr. Alien is a dumb, somewhat sexist movie that hasn’t aged well. That being said, this is a surprisingly funny sci-fi sex comedy that’s way more enjoyable than you’d expect. Sure, the whole “nerdy guy gains confidence, stands up to bullies, and gets the girl” story is tired and cliche. However, David DeCoteau manages to take that material and inject it with a self-aware tone that homages 50s Corman movies. While there’s plenty of nudity, foul language, and sexual innuendos, the overall film has a feel-good nature to it. It doesn’t feel mean-spirited or vile, but like you’re meant to have as much fun as the cast is having. Some of the jokes don’t quite land, but some moments had me chuckling throughout, thanks to the dry delivery. Plus, all the topless women certainly kept my attention.

    Cinematographer Nicholas Von Sternberg’s stylish filming and Greg Cannom’s lo-fi makeup effects enhance the film beyond its meager budget. Billy Jacoby can get a bit whiny as the nerd, but he’s likable and has a great character arc. Stuart Fratkin is funny as Wesley’s opportunistic friend, who comes off a bit pervy, but the movie calls him out. On top of looking gorgeous, Judy Landers is fun to watch with her doe-eyed expression and soft voice. Raymond O’Connor is delightfully creepy, Olivia Barash is cute, and the rest of the cast all do a fine job. Also, cult film fans should watch for appearances from Linnea Quigley, Troy Donahue, Ginger Lynn, Michelle Bauer, and Edy Williams. At 90 minutes, the movie gets in and out fairly quickly and keeps the action going with plenty of shenanigans. Overall, Dr. Alien is stupid, but it’s an enjoyable kind of stupid.

     

    Buy Dr. Alien from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LmBQh4.

    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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  • Renfield (2023)

    Renfield (2023)

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    In 2014, Universal announced plans to reboot their classic monster movies as part of a shared universe. Unfortunately, plans were scrapped following the critical and commercial failure of Dracula Untold and The Mummy. Universal still moved forward with modern updates on their monster properties, focusing on unique storytelling. Robert Kirkman of The Walking Dead fame pitched a concept for a movie focused on Dracula’s servant, Renfield. With a script by Ryan Ridley, Rocketman director Dexter Fletcher was hired but left for a reboot of The Saint. In 2021, Adam McKay got the directing job after delivering a pitch that the studio liked. Nicholas Hoult was hired for the title role, along with Awkwafina, Ben Schwartz, and Nicolas Cage as Dracula. The movie was filmed in New Orleans between February and April 2022 and was planned for a 2023 release. Renfield hit theaters worldwide in April 2023.

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    Synopsis

    English lawyer Robert Montague Renfield (Nicholas Hoult) visits Count Dracula (Nicolas Cage) to broker a deal for some land. Unfortunately, Renfield becomes Dracula’s familiar, meaning he has to keep Dracula fed from now until the end of time. Ninety years later, Renfield and Dracula have relocated to New Orleans to escape some vampire hunters. While Dracula recuperates, Renfield tries bringing in criminals for his master to feast on, but he wants innocent blood. Meanwhile, police officer Rebecca Quincy (Awkwafina) wants to take down the Lobo crime family for killing her father. She crosses paths with Renfield at a restaurant when Teddy Lobo (Ben Schwartz) and his goons attack. The two slaughter his crew, and Quincy calls Renfield a hero, inspiring him to leave Dracula for a new life. Feeling betrayed, Dracula teams up with the Lobo family as part of his plan to take over the world.

     

    Review

    Renfield does deliver on what the trailers promise, but it’s not quite what you think it will be. When the film’s focus is on the relationship between Renfield and Dracula is genuinely engaging, funny, and even heartfelt. However, the subplot about a traffic cop trying to take down a major crime family seems out of place. Granted, the two plots come together by the end, but it almost feels like two movies smashed together. This leads to the film’s over-the-top gore, which is cartoonishly violent and the primary draw of the movie. While I’m generally not a fan of CGI blood, the use of it here adds to the ridiculousness. There are some excellent practical effects to the film’s credit, particularly when you see a weakened Dracula near the beginning. Also, I’m impressed the filmmakers recreated the look and feel of the 1931 Dracula in the opening scene.

    Nicholas Hoult does a great job as Renfield, who is likable and sympathetic while showcasing his comedic abilities. Awkwafina is fun as the loud-mouthed traffic cop determined to make a difference and has excellent chemistry with Hoult. As he often does, Nicolas Cage steals the show as Dracula, chewing up all the scenery while still being intimidating. Thankfully, he has enough screen time to leave an impact without feeling overdone, as his over-the-top delivery can be overwhelming. Ben Schwartz is another standout as the cocky Teddy Lobo, who tries to be tough despite relying on others. There are also appearances from Jenna Kanell (Terrifier), Caroline Williams (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2), and William Ragsdale (Fright Night). The film flies by at only 90 minutes, but the disjointed nature hurts an otherwise enjoyable horror comedy. Overall, Renfield is entertaining, but it could’ve used some refinement in the scripting phase.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch “Renfield” playing in theaters starting April 14th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    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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  • VHS Massacre Too (2020)

    VHS Massacre Too (2020)

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    Upon its 2016 release, VHS Massacre: Cult Films and the Decline of Physical Media was very well received. The film won several accolades at the Telly Awards, WorldFest Houston, and the Miami International Science Fiction Film Festival. Since then, Tom Seymour and crew have noticed how history is being repeated in the streaming era. Much like movies were subject to censorship in the VHS era, independent filmmakers faced obstacles from large conglomerates today. Years after the original, Seymour decided to make a follow-up documentary showcasing the struggles of independent cinema. They got several interviewees from the first documentary and YouTube creators James Rolfe and Shawn C. Phillips. Once again, Troma picked up the distribution rights to the documentary and had its premiere in early 2020. In 2022, VHS Massacre Too made it to Blu-ray before premiering on Troma Now in 2023.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”85″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][/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=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    The documentary starts with film critic/horror host John Bloom, aka Joe Bob Briggs, giving a history of film censorship. He goes over the Hays Code, first introduced in 1934, then the formation of the MPAA in 1968. Interestingly, he mentions how films like The Texas Chain-Saw Massacre are regarded as classics today but were trashed upon release. From there, we see how physical media has declined, thanks partly to Blockbuster excluding exploitation/independent films. Filmmakers Debbie Rochon, J.R. Bookwalter, and Lloyd Kaufman discuss how streaming has financially hurt them and other independents. Rochon and James Rolfe also share stories about the difficulty of supporting themselves while making a movie for no money. Lloyd Kaufman also talks about how even the term “independent cinema” has been co-opted by the major studios. To top it off, the filmmakers even visit the last Blockbuster in the country, located in Bend, Oregon.

     

    Review

    VHS Massacre Too significantly improved over its predecessor, even if the title is a bit of a misnomer. This documentary is about censorship and how changing times affect independent filmmakers, which was the first film briefly touched on. While the decline of physical media is covered, it’s not given as much attention as the original. The best parts of the documentary are hearing the stories of independent filmmakers dealing with bad distribution deals. Hearing Debbie Rochon’s story about trying to get her film Model Hunger released made me want to watch it. Another highlight is Joe Bob Briggs pointing out the news publications’ hypocrisy in giving exploitation filmmakers attention when they die. The New York Times won’t review Larry Cohen’s The Stuff, but they’ll write a loving obituary for him. It shows how people who willingly talk about exploitation movies today were ashamed of it before.

    Including James Rolfe and Shawn C. Phillips is an interesting choice, but it also seems out of place. Nothing against Phillips, but Rolfe has much more experience behind the camera and understands the struggles more. The feel of the documentary is generally negative, but it offers suggestions for improving the state of independent cinema. It presents the idea that while independent cinema is dying, there are ways to take power away from the conglomerates. This documentary is also excellent for fans of exploitation cinema as it talks about how important these films are. Many classic exploitation movies shattered taboos and challenged how people think, which many of today’s mainstream movies fail to do. At 77 minutes, the documentary goes by quickly and doesn’t overstay its welcome, providing enough entertainment without dragging things out. Overall, VHS Massacre Too is an excellent documentary about censorship and truly independent cinema.

     

    Buy VHS Massacre Too from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3MOM37c.

    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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  • Air (2023)

    Air (2023)

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    While watching the documentary series The Last Dance, screenwriter Alex Convery got interested in how Nike signed with Michael Jordan. Convery wrote the script between 2020 and 2021 under the title Air Jordan and was on that year’s Black List. In 2022, Amazon Studios acquired the screenplay and hired Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, with Affleck as director. Before production began, Michael Jordan met with Ben Affleck to give his blessing if the script was changed. Mostly, Jordan wanted specific figures included, namely George Raveling and Howard White, along with the removal of Tinker Hatfield. Jordan also asked for his parents’ role to be further expanded and requested that Viola Davis play his mother. Once the changes were made, the movie was shot in Los Angeles between June and July 2022. While initially planned for a streaming-only release, Amazon decided to release Air to theaters in April 2023.

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    Synopsis

    Set in 1984, Nike is considering closing their basketball division because of poor sales and competition from Converse and Adidas. Nike’s basketball talent scout, Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), has to find a player to be the new spokesperson. Vaccaro thinks young up-and-coming Michael Jordan (Damian Delano Young) has potential, but he’s considered off-limits because he loves Adidas. After meeting with Jordan’s former Olympic coach George Raveling (Marlon Wayans), Vaccaro flies to Wilmington to meet with Jordan’s parents. Vaccaro assures Michael’s mother, Deloris (Viola Davis), that Nike will provide everything the competition can’t. Despite Jordan’s agent David Falk’s (Chris Messina) warning, Vaccaro and Robby Strasser (Jason Bateman) start working on their pitch. They ask designer Peter Moore (Matthew Maher) to develop a shoe specifically for Michael Jordan, which they call “Air Jordan.” The future of Nike’s basketball division depends on whether or not this deal will go through.

     

    Review

    Much like Ford v Ferrari, Air is a fantastic biopic you can enjoy whether or not you’re a sports fan. I don’t claim to be a sports expert, but I found the story captivating and was riveted throughout. It helps that everyone in the cast is giving a phenomenal performance, and the script is incredibly well-written. Matt Damon is relatable as the middle-aged, slightly overweight guy trying to do a successful job at work. His scenes with Jason Bateman and Ben Affleck are among the film’s many highlights as they exchange tons of banter. Like every other film she’s been in, Viola Davis gives an outstanding performance as Michael Jordan’s mother. Marlon Wayans does an excellent job in the few scenes he has, as do Chris Tucker and Chris Messina. Honestly, there isn’t a single bad actor in the entire cast.

    Returning to James Mangold’s 2019 film about the rivalry between Ford and Ferrari, the film touched on the American Dream. Similarly, Air exemplifies how anyone can succeed with the drive and perseverance to overcome larger-than-life obstacles. Some might see this as a giant advertisement for Nike, but the film is more about proving your worth. Not only is Vacarro’s job on the line but so are the livelihoods of his coworkers and his entire department. The fast pace can sometimes be overwhelming, but the movie keeps the story engaging. At slightly under two hours, there isn’t a spot that drags, and even the slower scenes are entertaining. It’s hard to say since 2023 isn’t halfway over, but this might be one of the year’s best films. Overall, Air works, thanks to its fantastic cast, solid direction, snappy writing, and riveting story.

    [/et_pb_text][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” link_option_url_new_window=”on” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Buy Your Tickets on Sale to watch ” Air” playing in theaters starting April 5th[/et_pb_code][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    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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  • Evil Bong 3: The Wrath of Bong (2011)

    Evil Bong 3: The Wrath of Bong (2011)

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    Like the original, Evil Bong 2: King Bong was a hit for Full Moon Features, so a sequel was inevitable. After the release of Avatar in 2009, there was a resurgence in 3D, and Charles Band wanted in on it. Band hadn’t made a 3D movie since Parasite 3D and Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn, so this was exciting. Unfortunately, he lacked those movies’ budgets, but luckily, cinematographer Thomas L. Calloway, aka Terrance Ryker, had a solution. Calloway had previously worked on the 3D film Long Day Journey, so that they could rent the equipment from that production. Full Moon held a writing contest, with the winner being video game reviewer Patrick Klepek. He sent them a complete outline, which they turned into the script, though he was given a writing credit. Evil Bong 3: The Wrath of Bong had a small theatrical run in 2011, complete with scratch-and-sniff cards.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”55″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _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=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Stoners Brett (Brian Lloyd) and Bachman (Mitch Eakins) are running their weed shop when a weird guy (Irwin Keyes) arrives. He found a strange alien bong near a crashed meteor and wants to sell it to them. They take it but notice an abnormal growth on his body and that the Alien Bong (Circus-Szalewski) can speak. The guys get Larnell (John Patrick Jordan) and Allistair (Peter Stickles) to help, but that’s not enough. Larnell calls Gramps (Jacob Witkin), now a weed doctor working with Nurse Hookah (Christina DeRosa), to try and help. He brings the Evil Bong Eebee (Michelle Mais) to try communicating with the Alien Bong, but even she’s perplexed. Soon, the guys are sent to the Alien Bong’s homeworld, where some foxy aliens try sucking their essence dry. Will our heroes stop this alien invasion, or will the Alien Bong be able to take over the world?

     

    Review

    If you’ve seen the first movies, you’ve more or less seen Evil Bong 3: The Wrath of Bong. I’m not exaggerating when I say this is like the last one, but swap the jungle for outer space. While much of the cast is the same, Alistair is recast again, changing Brett Chukerman for Peter Stickles. Compared to Chukerman, Stickles plays the part more like a stereotypical nerd like David Weidoff in the original. Unfortunately, he’s not given much to do here, which might explain why he didn’t return for the later sequels. The rest of the cast plays their parts like before, with Jacob Witkin again being the highlight. Robin Sydney has a few scenes, but she’s another standout as the snobby and airheaded Luann. Also, Sonny Carl Davis looks like he’s having a good time, especially in the alien world.

    Michelle Mais is as crass and loud as Eebee, and Circus-Szalewski makes for a great contrast as the Alien Bong. He gives an appropriately stern and intellectual tone, which reminded me of Jeffrey Combs’ performance in Re-Animator. The late great Irwin Keyes is memorable in his small role, and it’s a shame he disappears after twenty minutes. You can tell these movies are getting cheaper when you look at the sets, just some tiny rooms. The alien world is just a black room with a few props and topless women with body paint. The Alien Bong prop has a unique look with its large horns and pupilless green eyes. Several spots drag at slightly under ninety minutes, and I can’t imagine 3D making this better. Overall, Evil Bong 3: The Wrath of Bong has its moments, but the same tired material is repeated.

     

    Buy Evil Bong 3: The Wrath of Bong from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3L0eVrP.

    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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  • Slashening: The Final Beginning (2021)

    Slashening: The Final Beginning (2021)

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    Upon its release in 2015, The Slashening was well-received among critics and horror fans for its satirical wit. At the 2018 Milwaukee Twisted Dreams Festival, the film won the Best Supporting Actor and Best Makeup awards. Given its success, Brandon Bassham decided to crowdfund a sequel on IndieGoGo, much like he did on his other films. While most of the cast was new, Billy Bob Thompson and Patrick Foy returned for the sequel. Of the $10,000 flexible goal, the film raised over $8,000 for production, which added to the total $15,000 budget. Regarding the sequel, Bassham promised that it would be “the bloodiest, dirtiest horror/comedy ever made.” Like Bassham’s last two movies, Troma picked up this one for distribution and was released in 2021. In April 2021, Slashening: The Final Beginning had its LA premiere, followed by a release on Troma Now.

    [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_circle_counter title=”Rating” number=”80″ bar_bg_color=”#7CDA24″ _builder_version=”4.20.4″ _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=”4.20.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Five years after the last film, Madison Santangeli (Addie Weyrich) moves to Brooklyn and joins a support group. Her father owned the pizza parlor where the murdered delivery drivers worked, killing his business and leading to suicide. The support group is led by Pat (Patrick Foy), who survived his mutilations, with his girlfriend Cher (Madonna Refugia). There’s also Viv (Jean Louise O’Sullivan), Bex (Jaime Lutz), Greg (Carl Foreman Jr.), Dylan (McManus Woodend), and Kyle (Jon Bershad). Maddie seeks solace in her friend Kim (Rasheda Crockett), who helps her cope with talks in the bathtub. Unfortunately, a copycat killer is picking off the support group members one by one in increasingly gruesome ways. As the body count rises, Maddie learns more about the killer than expected, including the number of killers. Will she survive her attackers or be another victim of the new slashening?

     

    Review

    If you enjoyed The Slashening, you’d most likely enjoy Slashening: The Final Beginning since it’s more or less the same. Like that film, this one has plenty of gags and gore to keep you entertained, though your mileage may vary. Admittedly, some of the jokes don’t land, but there are plenty that hit, and no group is spared from ridicule. These include guys pretending to be feminists to get laid and white women threatening black business owners with negative reviews. Unfortunately, there are times when the gags are stretched out too long, but luckily, they’re few and far between. It’s a horror-comedy that leans a bit more into comedy, but plenty of horrors can be had. The gore effects are minimal, but there are plenty of bloody moments and inventive kills involving ukuleles and corkscrews. There’s even some nudity added in, which came as a shock.

    Everyone in the cast does a commendable job taking the material seriously while being in on the joke. Addie Weyrich makes for a likable lead, acting as the straight man to all the insanity around her. Jean Louise O’Sullivan and Jaime Lutz are having fun playing two stereotypical stuck-up, entitled white women you love to hate. Patrick Foy is funny as the lone survivor from the original, and Madonna Refugia is excellent as the insane girlfriend. Speaking of hateable characters, McManus Woodend plays into the incel trope well, and hearing people insult him is hilarious. Some might find the humor too political, but it works because both sides are made fun of. Some parts of the movie drag at an hour and twenty minutes, but watching with friends is still fun. Overall, Slashening: The Final Beginning is a hilariously bloody slasher spoof that builds on what made the original enjoyable.

     

    Watch Slashening: The Final Beginning on Troma Now: https://bit.ly/3MAlkew.

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