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  • Beyond Evil (1980)

    Beyond Evil (1980)

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    In my review of Graduation Day, I talked about filmmaker Herb Freed’s history as a rabbi turned movie director. As previously mentioned, Freed met producer David Baughn and started a partnership making horror films in the early 1980s. Not only was horror the cheapest genre of film to make, but it was also the most profitable. After directing Haunts in 1976, Freed wanted to make a more spiritually driven horror film, given his religious background. Baughn managed to acquire a small budget, and the shooting began in the Philippines in August 1979. Freed worked with co-writer Paul Ross, whose credits included Kitty Can’t Help It and Journey Into The Beyond in 1975. While working on the film, Baughn told Freed, “You know, this isn’t just evil. This is beyond evil.” That comment stuck with Freed, so the film hit theaters as Beyond Evil in May 1980.

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    Synopsis

    Architect Larry Andrews (John Saxon) and his wife Barbara (Lynda Day George) are moving into a condominium in the Philippines. Upon arrival, they’re greeted by Larry’s business partner Del (Michael Dante), who Barbara suspects is using her husband. It turns out she’s not far off as Del has them staying at a supposedly haunted mansion. According to local legend, Alma Martin (Janice Lynde) and her husband Esteban (Zitto Kazann) killed themselves inside the estate. Strange things start happening as Barbara has visions of a woman and even stabs her hand uncontrollably. Some locals, including Dr. Solomon (David Opatoshu), warn Larry that Alma’s spirit is trying to possess Barbara’s body. Despite Larry’s insistence on leaving, Barbara refuses, and soon Del and Solomon’s daughter Leia (Anne Marisse) wind up dead. Will Larry be able to save his wife and marriage, or will Alma’s vengeful spirit consume Barbara?

     

    Review

    Compared to Graduation Day, Beyond Evil isn’t as memorable or entertaining, but plenty is going for it. For one, the cast does a great job, with Saxon and George as the highlights. Saxon offers the same cool and calculated demeanor he brings to every other role he’s played. Like in Pieces, George is pretty decent, but she has moments where she amps it up and chews up the scenery. Michael Dante is alright as Saxon’s colleague/friend, but he doesn’t do much until 2/3 of the way through. Freed manages to inject plenty of mood and atmosphere with his use of shadows, colored lighting, and fog. As always, Pino Donaggio’s score elevates the movie by adding a mix of orchestral and synth styles. Unfortunately, for all the film has going for it, the whole thing feels lackluster, though not without some merits.

    The biggest problem with the film is its sluggish pace, making it a chore to watch. Some creepy stuff happens here and there, but it’s primarily a marriage drama that does play into the movie. Considering the ghost that possessed Barbara was a woman who killed her husband, there are parallels between the two. As I said, the actors help make it enjoyable, but the script doesn’t give them much to work with. It’s not until about halfway through that things start to get interesting as tons of crazy stuff starts happening. Supposedly, part of the film’s incomprehensibility was due to a series of reshoots done because MGM ruined the original negative. This would explain some of the hokey optical effects, which add a bit of campy charm to the movie. Overall, Beyond Evil has plenty to offer, but it’s a case of the parts being greater than the sum.

     

    Buy Beyond Evil from Amazon: https://amzn.to/48HwKGA.

    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 Beyond Evil (1980)

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  • Auditions (1978)

    Auditions (1978)

    [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=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]After a successful reveal in Japan in 1976, the VHS (Video Home System) cassette came to the US in 1977. With its ability to record live TV and up to 4 hours of playtime, people could finally watch whatever, whenever. One of the first home video companies was Magnetic Video, which acquired the license for some 20th Century Fox titles. While many other major studios feared VHS, Charles Band saw the potential in the burgeoning video market. In 1978, Band founded Meda Home Entertainment, named after his then-wife, and released titles like Halloween, Slithis, and Flesh Gordon. He also recognized the demand for original content, so he devised an idea he could make quickly and cheaply. He remembered some of the bizarre people who auditioned for Cinderella and Fairy Tales and used that as a basis. In 1978, Band released the adult pseudo-documentary Auditions under his Meda Home Entertainment.

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    Synopsis

    Around March 15, 1978, the producers of Cinderella and Fairy Tales submitted an ad in the Hollywood Variety. The ad was a call for “the world’s sexiest man & woman” and “the world’s most unusual act or personality.” The producers built two sets: a medieval dungeon and a French boudoir, and received hundreds of potential actors. Tons of eccentric people arrive, including shy schoolteacher Tracy Matthews (Bonnie Werchan) and the stud Charlie White (Rick Cassidy). Each potential cast member is asked to strip naked, describe their most intimate moments, and even please themselves. One of the more problematic applicants is Sally Webster (Linnea Quigley), who they discover is 15 and has her removed. As the day goes on, more and more people try out, and only the best can move forward. Who will get the parts of Sleeping Beauty, Prince Charming, and the comic relief for Fairy Tales II?

     

    Review

    Unfortunately, there’s not much I can say about Auditions because it’s barely even a movie. Sure, there are characters and a story, but I don’t know if those qualify, considering what’s here. The film claims that the people on screen are real, except that the credits ruin it. Granted, they probably would’ve been hit with at least one lawsuit if they had used actual people. It doesn’t help that one of the “plot points” involves a girl auditioning despite being a minor. Interestingly, this led to the film being banned in some countries, even though Linnea Quigley was 19 then. Then again, they would’ve had to watch the movie all the way through, which I can’t blame them. As a sex film, it’s not very erotic, as everyone strips naked, fools around, and makes complete fools of themselves. As a comedy, it’s hardly funny, with most gags falling flat.

    As not good as this “movie” is, it’s an interesting relic from Charles Band’s catalog perfect for Full Moon completionists. There’s also some commentary about how some people are willing to do anything for fame, even if unintentional. Plus, the movie is just so bizarre and odd that, as boring as it is, there are little moments that will stick with you. It might be the closest Band has come to making something sleazy enough to feel at home on 42nd Street. That’s more than I can say for some of the other drek Charles Band made, like End of the World. Honestly, I almost half-heartedly recommend watching this at least once just for how bizarre the experience is. Just prepare for nearly 90 minutes of people stumbling, stripping, dancing, trying to be funny, and rolling around. Overall, Auditions would probably be better enjoyed with friends and liquor.

     

    Buy Auditions from Amazon: https://amzn.to/43elkYo.

    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 Auditions (1978)

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  • Cry Uncle! (1971)

    Cry Uncle! (1971)

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    Today, most people know John G. Avildsen for directing classics like Rocky, The Karate Kid, and Lean on Me. Like many great filmmakers, Avildsen came from humble beginnings, having been an assistant director for Arthur Penn and Otto Preminger. His directorial debut was 1969’s Turn on to Love, followed by Guess What We Learned in School Today? in 1970. That same year, his film Joe, starring Peter Boyle and a then-unknown Susan Sarandon, was a surprise hit. On a $106,000 budget, the film grossed over $19 million and earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. While working on Joe, Avildsen became friends with a young college graduate named Lloyd Kaufman, who was getting his start. They decided to start working on a film based on Michael Brett’s novel Lie a Little, Die a Little. In August 1971, Avildsen’s Cry Uncle made its way onto the big screen.

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    Synopsis

    Private investigator Jake Masters (Allen Garfield) meets with Cora Merrill (Madeleine Le Roux), whose boss has a job for him. Her boss is eccentric billionaire Jason Dominic (David Kirk), who wants Jake to help him with someone who’s blackmailing him. A cocktail waitress named Lucille Reynolds died, and it’s believed Dominic killed her because she tried extorting him for $50,000. With Merrill and his nephew/assistant Keith (Devin Goldenberg), Masters has to figure out just what is going on. While Jake takes a more civil approach to getting information, Cora gets violent instead, making him nervous. Along the way, Masters tracks down various prostitutes connected to Reynolds and sleeps with them for information. Before long, Masters and Merrill start a relationship despite her previous marriage, but things seem out of place. Will Jake be able to crack the case, or will he end up having to cry uncle?

     

    Review

    Before going forward, I should mention that I had never heard of the book, let alone read it. Admittedly, if this film didn’t have the talent attached that it did, Cry Uncle would’ve been largely forgotten. However, because future Oscar winner John G. Avildsen directed it, this film is worth seeking out for curious viewers. On that note, it’s also worth watching to see an early appearance by the late Paul Sorvino as a cop. Aside from that, this film is pretty clunky, with many jokes not landing and a heavy reliance on nudity. To the film’s credit, the cast is filled with some decent performances, particularly from Garfield and Le Roux. Garfield sells the part of a snarky detective who is good in bed despite his appearance. Le Roux makes for a great femme fatale and works great off of Garfield and Goldenberg.

    The film tries to parody many tropes in noir and detective films but rarely does it land. For instance, there’s a running gag about correctly spelling someone’s name early on, and it gets old fast. Also, another running gag involves a character with the last name “Caulk” that everyone constantly brings up. It’s unfortunate because there is an engaging mystery going on that you want to follow along with. Sure, it can get convoluted with how so many people betray each other, but that’s par for the course. Granted, some jokes push some boundaries, but those end up being the funniest just for the shock value. Much like The Battle of Love’s Return, it’s a silly comedy made by a first-timer who went further. Overall, Cry Uncle may not be one of the best comedies, but it’s one of the more interesting.

     

    Buy Cry Uncle from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TQlShi.

    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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  • Gingerdead Man 2: Passion of the Crust (2008)

    Gingerdead Man 2: Passion of the Crust (2008)

    [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=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Released in 2005, The Gingerdead Man was a surprise hit for the struggling Full Moon Features. Charles Band was so impressed that he gave William Butler, who wrote the original, the chance to direct the sequel. Previously, Butler made 2004’s Madhouse and 2007’s Furnace, both low-budget movies that ended up being very successful. Seeing an opportunity, Butler agreed to do the sequel but only if given complete creative control. After telling Charles that he wanted to crucify the Gingerdead Man, Charles was entirely on board. Butler brought on Muffy Bolding and Aaron Strongoni, who he worked with on his previous features, to help write the script. Unfortunately, they couldn’t get Gary Busey to return, so they hired the late John Vulich to voice the titular character. On the 4th of July, 2008, Gingerdead Man 2: Passion of the Crust made its way onto video store shelves.

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    Synopsis

    Times are tough at Cheatum Studios, a once prolific moviehouse known for making low-budget genre films. Kevin Cheatum (K-von Moezzi) has taken to try to keep the studio alive to honor his late father. The studio is currently in production of the 9th entry in their Tiny Terrors series, but things are going downhill. Meanwhile, Heather Crocker (Kelsey Sanders) brings the terminally-ill Tommy Hines (Joseph Porter) to visit the studio as his last wish. During the tour, former scream queen Polly Bonderhoof (Michelle Bauer) bring a box of baked good to the studio. Inside the box is the Gingerdead Man (John Vulich), who wanders the studio searching for victims for a transmigration spell. As the body count rises, Kevin orders everyone to evacuate the studio as he and Heather try to find Tommy. While fending off the Gingerdead Man, Tommy reveals himself as Kevin’s worst fear: an online movie critic!

     

    Review

    While it was no cinematic masterpiece, I thought The Gingerdead Man had its moments and made for decent entertainment. The sequel, on the other hand, was a chore to get through between the lousy acting and dated stereotypes. As much as the absence of Gary Busey hurts, John Vulich does a decent job doing a Busey-like voice. Also, genre fans will enjoy the cameos from people like John Carl Buechler, David DeCoteau, and Greg Nicotero. Speaking of genre veterans, Michelle Bauer has fun delivering corny sexual innuendos and acting like a sexpot. K-von Moezzi is fine as the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed producer trying to maintain his father’s legacy. Though pretty, Kelsey Sanders is bland as the obvious love interest, and Joseph Porter comes off a bit annoying. The cast seems to be having fun in an otherwise ridiculous movie, but it’s too bad the audience isn’t.

    In many ways, the film is similar to Troma’s Terror Firmer, about a movie shoot interrupted by a deranged killer. Both movies take potshots at the studios who made them, but Lloyd Kaufman’s film was much more intelligent and subtle. It also helps that Troma’s movie had more interesting characters, memorable kills, and a rebellious spirit only they could deliver. Here, the filmmakers try taking jabs at Full Moon Features, but it comes off as juvenile and a little mean-spirited. They even take jabs at people who criticize them, but they go for all the stereotypes you can think of. Also, for a movie called Gingerdead Man 2, the actual Gingerdead Man doesn’t factor much into the plot. At 82 minutes, the film feels padded as it struggles to reach feature length with its half-baked ideas. Overall, Gingerdead Man 2: Passion of the Crust isn’t very good. Go figure!

     

    Buy Gingerdead Man 2: Passion of the Crust 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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  • The Last Horror Film (1982)

    The Last Horror Film (1982)

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    In 1978, New World Pictures released Starcrash, an Italian Star Wars knock-off featuring Caroline Munro and Joe Spinell. Two years later, they starred in the controversial 1980 horror film Maniac, a surprise box office hit. Around this time, Munro’s husband Judd Hamilton was making deals with Cannon Films to produce a sequel to Starcrash. While trying to find interest at the Cannes Film Festival in 1981, Hamilton and actor-turned-filmmaker David Winters had an idea. Using Cannes as the backdrop, they decided to make a film meant to bring Munro and Spinell back together. However, much of the filming was done guerilla style since the festival was going on and they couldn’t secure permits. After a limited theatrical run in 1982, the film faded into obscurity until Troma acquired the rights. In 2009, Troma released a restored director’s cut of the film, The Last Horror Film, on DVD.

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    Synopsis

    Vinny Durand (Joe Spinell) is a New York taxi driver who dreams of becoming a filmmaker despite his mother’s objections. Durand aspires to make the ultimate horror film starring the B-movie “queen of horror films” Jana Bates (Caroline Munro). To accomplish this, he buys a plane ticket to France, where Bates is attending the Cannes Film Festival. Unfortunately, every time he tries to reach out to Jana, Vinny is turned away by security and her producers. While this happens, people close to Jana, including her manager/ex-husband Bret (Glenn Jacobson), are murdered. Not only that, but the killer also films all the murders, like how Vinny films Jana wherever she goes. Unfortunately, the attendees think the murders are part of a publicity stunt despite Jana’s pleas for help. Will the killer’s identity be revealed, or will this end up being the last horror film for Jana Bates?

     

    Review

    While the final product is somewhat disjointed, The Last Horror Film is a fascinating mesh of horror and satire. First and foremost, Joe Spinell gives another captivating performance, showing he had the potential to be a leading man. He nails the part of a creepy stalker, but there’s a part of you that makes you sympathize with him. Even though he acts weird and comes off as delusional, his character has the drive to make his film. Caroline Munro is stunningly beautiful, and her scenes with Spinell are great moments of tension and suspense. Also, the filmmakers took full advantage of the location, showcasing the Cannes Film Festival on a grand scale. It’s a fascinating time capsule of what movies were being sold back in 1981 and the French locales. Given the lengths they had to go through to shoot in these locations, it’s impressive what they pulled off.

    However, as ambitious as the film is, this results in an inconsistent tone that makes the film feel disjointed. While there technically is a straightforward narrative, it feels like director David Winters just filmed whatever he wanted. The story of a crazed stalker chasing after his favorite actress would’ve been fine enough, but they try adding commentary. The movie references the attempted assassination of Ronald Reagan by John Hinckley Jr, which inspired the central plot. They also criticize then-modern horror films for being too gory, despite Spinell previously starring in Maniac, a notorious grisly movie. Admittedly, this satire does lead to an ending that comes out of nowhere that adds a clever twist. Gorehounds will probably be disappointed, but those who appreciate movies like Scream might find this interesting. Overall, The Last Horror Film is a slight mess, but it’s got two great leads and plenty of ambition.

     

    Buy The Last Horror Film from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Tmbtdc.

    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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  • Alone in the Dark (1982)

    Alone in the Dark (1982)

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    Though he initially wanted to be a musician, Jack Sholder decided to switch career paths and become a writer. While attending the University of Edinburgh, Sholder took an interest in film and chose to pursue that further. Unfortunately, his college didn’t have a film department, so he had to train himself to operate various filmmaking equipment. Through some connections, Sholder got a job as an editor for New Line Cinema, a film distributor at the time. He became friends with founder Bob Shaye, who was impressed with how successful Friday the 13th was. After editing The Burning, Sholder came to Shaye with an idea for a slasher about escaped mental patients run amok. New Line Cinema wanted to start producing films rather than distributing them, so this would be their first. Despite some troubles during production, Sholder’s Alone in the Dark hit theaters in November 1982.

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    Synopsis

    Dr. Daniel Potter (Dwight Schultz) has accepted a job at an experimental psychiatric hospital under Dr. Leo Bain (Donald Pleasence). While most patients are free to wander the facility, the third-floor patients are contained behind an electric security door. One of these patients, war veteran Frank Hawkes (Jack Palance), believes that Potter killed the doctor before him. He recruits fellow patients Byron “Preacher” Sutcliff (Martin Landau) and Ronald “Fatty” Elster (Erland Van Lidth) to kill Potter. A freak power outage shuts off the hospital’s security system, allowing Hawkes, Preacher, and Fatty to escape into the night. They find their way to Potter’s house and stalk his wife Nell (Deborah Hedwall) and daughter Lyla (Elizabeth Ward). Soon enough, the patients start attacking, forcing the family to barricade themselves as they try to survive the night. They’ll quickly learn what happens when you’re alone in the dark.

     

    Review

    While it may not be as well-known as Halloween or Friday the 13th, Alone in the Dark is a gem. Jack Sholder shows a lot of promise for a first-time director, and it’s no surprise he had a successful career. He manages to create a real sense of dread and tension through the use of darkness and shadows. What helps to sell the fear is the cast, which includes some of the greatest character actors ever to live. Jack Palance dominates every scene he’s in as a hardened war veteran who will get his hands dirty if necessary. Martin Landau gives a wonderfully manic performance as a deranged former preacher who believes he’s doing God’s work. While he doesn’t say much, Erland Van Lidth also stands out as a lumbering creeper who seems to play dumb. These three make for some very effective slasher villains, especially Palance.

    As always, Donald Pleasance delivers an excellent performance as a psychologist with some odd treatment methods for mental illness. Dwight Schultz makes for a likable lead as he tries to use rationality and logic to stop the psychopaths. Like any good slasher, there’s some gore and nudity, but not as much as your typical slasher film. The minimal gore usage makes the more gruesome scenes even more shocking, and nudity doesn’t equal a good slasher film. The movie also has some dark comedy, including a scene where the psychopaths kill a guy just for his hat. Without giving too much away, the ending is a brilliant twist that goes in a direction you’d never expect. Sure, the concept of escaped mental patients killing people was cliche by then, but Sholder manages to make something unique. Overall, Alone in the Dark may not be a classic, but it’s worth a watch.

     

    Buy Alone in the Dark from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3QSUayG.

    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 Alone in the Dark (1982)

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  • Fairy Tales (1978)

    Fairy Tales (1978)

    [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=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Released in May 1977, Charles Band’s Cinderella proved to be an unexpected hit for the burgeoning producer. Seeing the potential, Band decided to make another adult musical comedy film version of a classic fairy tale. He reunited with co-writer Frank Ray Perilli, who also wrote Mansion of the Doomed, Laserblast, and Last Foxtrot in Burbank. However, Michael Pataki had since moved on to have a recurring role in the 1970s The Amazing Spider-Man TV show. In the directing chair was Harry Hurwitz, using the pseudonym Harry Tampa, whose prior credits include The Projectionist and Richard. Notably, the director of photography was Daniel Pearl, who previously shot The Texas Chain Saw Massacre and its remake. Band and company decided to include various fairy tale characters in this film rather than adapting one story. After a brief one-to-two-week shoot, Fairy Tales hit US theaters in August 1978.

    [/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=”50″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _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

    The Prince (Don Sparks) has turned 21, and his doctors (Irwin Corey, Robert Harris, and Simmy Bow) have an announcement. His father, the king, declares that his son will only inherit the kingdom if he can produce an heir. The only problem is that The Prince is only interested in his dream girl, and no other woman will suffice. He quests for the perfect woman, taking him to the old lady in the shoe, Gussie Gander (Brenda Fogarty). Here, she’s the madam of a whorehouse featuring Little Bo Peep (Angela Aames) and Snow White (Anne Gaybis). Unfortunately, none of the women do it for The Prince, so Gander has her cohort Sirus (Sy Richardson) try helping. He takes The Prince to see Aunt La Voh (Martha Reeves), who can create a love potion to help him. But will our prince ever come, or is he doomed to be a peasant?

     

    Review

    While Cinderella had its charm and was a fun time, Fairy Tales lacks what made the earlier film special. Compared to Michael Pataki’s energetic direction, Harry Hurwitz films the sequences in a flat, dull fashion that feels tired. Watching it, you get the sense that Hurwitz didn’t care for the material and just saw it as another job. However, despite how flat the direction is, Daniel Pearl’s cinematography adds a dreamlike quality that helps sell the picture. It’s easy to see how Pearl transitioned from this to shooting music videos for The Police, Billy Idol, and Animotion. Sadly, the same can’t be said for the poor choreography, where the actors are either standing still or flailing about. Andrew Belling returns to compose the score, but unfortunately, the songs here lack the energy of the previous film. The one exception is “You’ll Feel the Magic in Me” by Martha Reeves.

    The goofy-looking Don Sparks is certainly game for the lead role, but he lacks the charm Cheryl Smith had. He’s certainly a sympathetic character, but he’s kind of a weiner who stumbles about from scene to scene. Sy Richardson once again proves to be a highlight of the film as the wisecracking yet dated pimp Sirus. Irwin Corey from Stuck on You has some funny moments, but he’s gone after the first five minutes. Most notably, this film features future scream queen Linnea Quigley, though she doesn’t show up until near the end. The rest of the cast either strip naked or mug for the camera, which can get old pretty quickly. While the film only clocks in at 76 minutes, it feels like a long 76 minutes to endure. Overall, Fairy Tales is a product of its time, but not a very good one.

     

    Buy Fairy Tales 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 Fairy Tales (1978)

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  • Madman (1982)

    Madman (1982)

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    After graduating from Richmond College, Gary Sales and Joe Giannone entered the film business in the late 1970s. With the rise in low-budget horror films like Halloween and Friday the 13th, Sales and Giannone decided to pursue that. While developing the screenplay with Giannone, Sales recalled hearing the legend of Cropsey and chose that as their basis. However, they learned of a similar movie in production around the same time with a similar story, The Burning. Sales decided to rewrite the script to avoid similarities and create a new slasher villain with a unique backstory. Principal photography began in November 1980 on a budget of $350,000 at Fish Cove Inn in Southhampton, Long Island. While most of the cast were unknown, Gaylen Ross from Dawn of the Dead played the lead as “Alexis Dubin.” Despite premiering in October 1981, Madman didn’t get a wide release until early 1982.

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    Synopsis

    At a summer camp for gifted children, head counselor Max (Carl Fredericks) tells an urban legend by a campfire. He tells the kids and other counselors about Madman Marz (Paul Ehlers), a crazed farmer who killed his family. Marz was hanged for his crime but escaped from the noose and now stalks the nearby woods looking for victims. One of the counselors, Richie (Jimmy Steele), doesn’t believe Max and jokingly calls out for Marz, unknowingly getting his attention. While the rest of the counselors and campers leave for the night, Richie wanders off and finds Marz’s farmhouse. After Max leaves, the other counselors in charge, T.P. (Tony Fish) and Dave (Seth Jones), search for Richie. Unfortunately, neither of them returns, so the other counselors search for them, leaving Betsy (Gaylen Ross) to watch the kids. Who will survive, and who will fall victim to Madman Marz?

     

    Review

    Madman is pretty standard compared to many slashers released around this time, though it has some stand-out qualities. For one, the late Joe Giannone manages to capture the look and feel of an old campfire tale. With all the fog, shadows, and minimal lighting, the movie has a very eerie atmosphere that adds to the tension. Even though the film is supposed to take place during the summer, it has an autumn vibe. This vibe adds to the campfire tale feeling of being alone in the woods with a crisp, cool breeze. Admittedly, there are a few out-of-focus shots, but considering the low-budget nature and short schedule, it adds to the charm. Story-wise, there isn’t much more than just a series of kill scenes loosely strung together. Granted, a movie like this doesn’t necessarily need a complex story with many subplots to excel.

    Casting-wise, everyone does a decent job, but many of the lesser-known actors don’t stand out in a particular way. Gaylen Ross, arguably the biggest name in the cast, is probably the biggest stand-out, though she doesn’t do much. Conversely, Paul Ehlers makes for a good slasher villain with his imposing figure, massive size, and menacing walk. On top of that, he’s even got a catchy theme song that adds to his mystique as an urban legend. While the kills aren’t as memorable as those made by Tom Savini or his contemporaries, there is some gruesome slashing. Probably the most creative death is when a character gets decapitated with a car hood, which is undoubtedly unique. At slightly under 90 minutes, this film flies by pretty quickly and provides enough scares to keep you invested. Overall, Madman has its issues, but it’s an underrated gem among a sea of slasher imitators.

     

    Buy Madman from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3AyV4KW.

    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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  • Beast (2022)

    Beast (2022)

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    Since 1992, Icelandic filmmaker Baltasar Kormákur has worked in the industry as an actor, writer, producer, and director. After making his debut with 1996’s Go LazyTown, Kormákur gained much attention for his 2000 feature 101 Reykjavík. The film won numerous awards at the Toronto International Film Festival, Thessaloniki Film Festival, and Pula Film Festival, among others. He made his American directorial debut with 2005’s A Little Trip to Heaven, starring Forest Whitaker and Julia Stiles. Kormákur’s 2012 film, The Deep, was selected as the Icelandic entry for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar. He followed this up with 2013’s 2 Guns, 2015’s Everest, and 2018’s Adrift, all of which made decent money. In 2020, actor Idris Elba announced he’d star in a new movie directed by Kormákur and written by Ryan Engle. After ten weeks of filming in South Africa, Baltasar Kormákur’s Beast hit theater screens in August 2022.

    [/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=”70″ bar_bg_color=”#EDF000″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _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=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

    Synopsis

    Dr. Nate Samuels (Idris Elba) takes his daughters Norah (Leah Jeffries) and Meredith (Iyana Halley) to Africa to reconnect. Since their mother died, he and his daughters have drifted apart, and he’s trying to mend their relationship. With his old friend Martin Battles (Sharlto Copley), Nate takes his daughters on a safari to see the wildlife. Unfortunately, things go downhill when they come across a nearby village where everyone is dead. It turns out a rogue lion is on the loose and killing any humans it comes across due to poachers. Martin gets attacked by the lion while Nate and his daughters are trapped in their jeep after it crashes. Nate, Norah, and Meredith must stick together if they want to survive against a prowling lion. Will they put aside their differences and work together, or will this fractured family become the lion’s next meal?

     

    Review

    On the surface, Beast is a movie we’ve seen done numerous times before and in much better films. There’s nothing wrong with using a familiar formula so long as the final film is entertaining and well-done. For the most part, the filmmakers managed to take a tried and true formula and make it work. Idris Elba makes for a great leading man that you can root for, which he always does. He’s one of those actors who always delivers a solid performance no matter the movie’s overall quality. While his screen time is somewhat limited, Sharlto Copley does an excellent job as Nate’s longtime friend. Leah Jeffries and Iyana Halley have their moments, but they come off as slightly annoying and incredibly inept. Every time Nate tells them to do something, they do the exact opposite, which is very frustrating. They move the story forward, but they could’ve done better.

    One aspect I can commend the movie for is the cinematography, which Oscar-winning cinematographer Philippe Rousselot handled. There are several moments where the action is filmed as if it’s done in one take, and it’s incredible. These shots put you in the middle of the action and make you feel like you’re there. Unfortunately, there is an occasional shaky cam shot when the action gets too intense, which hurts the experience. Most likely, this was done to hide the imperfections of the CGI lion, which looks decent if somewhat hyperrealistic. Also, the plot is very predictable, with an ending that you’ll see coming from a mile away. Thankfully, the movie clocks in at a breezy 93 minutes, so it won’t take up too much of your time. Overall, Beast is an average survival film with some decent camerawork and a good lead that’s ideal for matinee prices.

     

    Buy tickets to Beast from Fandango: https://fandan.co/3AoOs1L.

    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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  • The New York Ripper (1982)

    The New York Ripper (1982)

    [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=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Italian filmmaker Lucio Fulci started his career in the 1950s, mostly directing comedies, musicals, and Spaghetti Westerns. However, in 1969, he switched to horror, beginning with the Giallo film One on Top of the Other. In 1979, Fulci directed Zombi 2, aka Zombie, which forever cemented him as a name in the horror genre. He later made his “Gates of Hell” trilogy: City of the Living Dead, The Beyond, and House by the Cemetery. Around this time, writers Gianfranco Clerici and Vincenzo Mannino wrote a script about a killer with Progeria. While initially written for Ruggero Deodato to direct, Lucio Fulci took over and rewrote the script with Dardano Sacchetti. Though many of Fulci’s previous works were controversial, this one would become the most controversial even to this day. In March 1982, The New York Ripper premiered in Italy before getting a limited US release in 1984.
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    Synopsis

    After a severed hand is found by a local, NYC Lieutenant Fred Williams (Jack Hedley) starts investigating the murder. He interviews the victim’s landlady, Mrs. Weissburger (Babette New), who regularly spies on her tenants, including the victim. According to Mrs. Weissburger, the victim got a call from a mysterious stranger who talked with a Donald Duck voice. Soon enough, more women, including a young cyclist and a sex show performer, wind up dead. As the murders continue, Williams keeps getting phone calls from the duck-voiced killer, taunting him about the deaths. One would-be victim, Fay (Almanta Suska), tells Williams that the killer was a scruffy-looking man with two missing fingers. This information pins the murder on Mickey Scellenda (Howard Ross), a Greek immigrant with a history of sexual assault. However, Williams gets another call from the ripper, letting him know the killings will continue until they stop him.

     

    Review

    Lucio Fulci is known for his excessive use of blood and gore, and The New York Ripper is no exception. The kills are even more brutal because of their sexual nature, including stabbing a broken bottle into a woman’s crotch. According to co-writer Dardano Sacchetti, much of the sexual content was added in by Fulci. Also, Sacchetti claimed that Fulci “nurtures a profound sadism towards women,” which has led to much of the film’s controversy. Many critics have labeled this film as being misogynist and shameful due to how the primary victims are women. On the one hand, I can see where they’re coming from, especially with some of the dialogue sprinkled in. On the other hand, the killer isn’t meant to be sympathetic, nor is the audience supposed to root for him. Considering past serial killers have primarily targeted women, it’s more a reflection of real-world events.

    This movie is a prime example of what I call the “New York sleaze era” between the 70s and 80s. This was a period filled with low-budget exploitation films that showed off the sleaze of 42nd Street before its gentrification. It’s a sort of dirty, gritty, and raw feeling that we don’t see anymore with today’s sanitized, safe movies. Francesco De Masi’s score adds to the sleazy feeling with its upbeat tones and fast tempo. As with many Giallos, all the main characters have significant flaws, such as the lieutenant hooking up with prostitutes. Admittedly, the final reveal is pretty apparent, and the explanation they give is thrown haphazardly at the end. This movie isn’t for everyone, but if you enjoy your horror films with some sleaze, this is for you. Overall, The New York Ripper is a viciously sleazy Giallo that succeeds at what it sets out to do.

     

    Buy The New York Ripper from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3JLh9sD.

    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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