Lightbulb Film Distribution is delighted to share the poster and trailer for new dystopian fantasy-thriller, Undergods, which will be coming to cinemas and digital download on May 17. Following its world premiere at Fantasia last year, the film went on to celebrate its UK premiere at Glasgow Film Festival in
Author: scotthgilliland
Just a guy from Northern Ireland over sharing my life details as I continue my weight loss journey, lover of films and sports and music (like everyone on Earth) and exercise of all forms, so expect a lot of nonsense, apologies beforehand.
Peaks and Valleys – ★★★★
Michael Burn’s Peaks and Valleys is a wonderful character study of two people who find each other at the right time. With memorable performances in a gorgeous setting, this is a drama that captivates you from beginning to end.
Threshold – ★★★
Powell Robinson & Robert-Patrick Young’s Threshold works best when it focuses on its two siblings simply trying to reconnect. Despite the painfully rushed ending, it shows moments of beauty and allows the viewer to enjoy the overall journey
We Still Say Grace – ★★★★
Brad Helmink and John Rauschelbach’s film is a tremendously effective thriller that does everything possibly right. A slow-burner that reels you in, this is a must-watch film that deserves to find as wide an audience as possible.
The Darkness – ★★
With an overbearing score and a script that simply cannot get to grips with what supernatural influence it wants to take from, The Darkness never gets going. Resulting in a flawed, disjointed film that fails its audience in almost every way possible.
Fried Barry – ★★★
There will be very little between Fried Barry; you will either love this film or hate it. A non-stop ride that takes no prisoners and does even less to explain itself. Jarring and intelligible, this is one for those who love chaos in their sci-fi.
Keep Rolling – ★★★★ 1/2
A wonderful documentary about the auteur Ann Hui. Keep Rolling is an exploration into her storied career that links in perfectly with her personal life. For those unfamiliar with Hui, this remains an open & appealing introduction to the filmmaker.
Truman and Tennessee: An Intimate Conversation – ★★★
An interesting & satisfying documentary that doesn’t quite delve into our subjects as much as you would want it to. Yet, you are invested to the piece thanks to some wonderful visual choices from Vreeland.
Documentary about Ann Hui, Keep Rolling premiering in the UK and Ireland
Documentary about Ann Hui, Keep Rolling premiering in the UK and Ireland
The Virtuoso – ★★ 1/2
The Virtuoso is held back by an uninspiring script that hampers itself from the start; a premise that could have had legs is wasted to become a standard assassin thriller. Given only a time, a location, and a cryptic clue, the methodical hitman (Anson Mount) must identify his mysterious foe
Clapboard Jungle ★★★★ 1/2, Arrow Player
Justin McConnell’s engrossing documentary is a treasure trove of valuable information that anyone wanting to break into the film industry must watch.
Nicolas Cage’s Mandy coming to Blu-Ray 24th May
Dazzler Media proudly presents the psychedelic, cult horror masterpiece, Mandy starring Nicolas Cage, coming to Limited Edition Blu-ray from 24th May. “An exhilarating ride through the fiery gates of hell” Sight and Sound ★★★★★ The Daily Telegraph ★★★★★ Total Film ★★★★★ The Upcoming ★★★★★ The Guardian ★★★★ Synopsis:Pacific Northwest. 1983 AD. Outsiders Red Miller (Nicolas Cage) and Mandy
Beast Beast – ★★★★
Danny Madden’s fantastic feature debut Beast Beast is bold with its perfectly built tension and a final act that hits you like a train, becoming an unmissable and urgent film for young adults in a modern world.
Raw- Second Sight Blu-Ray – ★★★★
Second Sight has made a package that shows the true joy of physical media with their new release of Julia Ducournau’s 2016 film Raw. A special edition release that is worthy of the film that it accompanies.
Oscar 2021 Breakdown
It’s over, it is finally over, thank goodness! Awards season is over for another few days, There were a few surprises for me this year in the winners, but generally everything went as it should. Let’s have a gander to see who won what.
Oscar 2021 predictions
With the Academy Awards hours away, it seemed best to get my predictions out! Anything that you agree or disagree with?
Here Are The Young Men – ★★★
Eoin C. Macken’s solid picture Here Are The Young Men shines a light on toxic masculinity without ever giving itself the chance to go fully in-depth as its characters deserve.
Lucky Grandma – ★★★ 1/2
With two fabulous performances from Tsai Chin and Hsiao-Yuan Ha, Lucky Grandma weaves a delightful tale that delivers the laughs and knows when to pull at your emotions to bring us a charming film that showcases the value of family.
ARROW Offers Classic and Cutting Edge Cult Cinema Supernatural Thriller Threshold Streaming May 3 Festival Favorite Shot Entirely on Two iPhones
ARROW Offers Classic and Cutting Edge Cult Cinema Supernatural Thriller Threshold Streaming May 3 Festival Favorite Shot Entirely on Two iPhones
Peccadillo Pictures Announces The Home Entertainment Release for Sequin In A Blue Room
PECCADILLO PICTURES ANNOUNCES THE HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE DATE FOR SEQUIN IN A BLUE ROOM On DVD, Blu-ray & On-Demand 17th May 2021 A FILM BYSAMUEL VAN GRINSVEN StarringCONOR LEACH, SAMUEL BARRIE, JEREMY LINDSAY TAYLOR, SIMON CROKER, DAMIAN DE MONTEMAS ‘An auspicious feature debut…Sequin in a Blue Room is very much of
Tokyo Ghoul S – ★★★
An enjoyable romp that knows not to take itself overly seriously, though it wouldn’t hurt itself to do so to make it a stronger film. A very watchable live-action sequel that keeps true to its anime roots.
Sheep Without A Shepherd – ★★★ 1/2
An intricately written film, Sam Quah’s Sheep Without A Shepherd is a rewarding movie that expertly ramps up the emotional tension in a memorable cat and mouse thriller.
Black Bear – ★★★★
Writer-Director Lawrence Michael Levine’s Black Bear mesmerises with its three devastatingly good leads. This film is full of ambiguity that keeps you engrossed and unable to look away as these characters destroy themselves.
Laddie: The Man Behind The Movies – ★★★ 1/2
A touching tribute to an outstanding producer, Laddie: The Man Behind The Movies is a documentary that should be appreciated by all film fans. While it is far too short, it remains an enjoyable journey. Laddie: The Man Behind the Movies is the story of Alan Ladd Jr., the Oscar-winning producer and
Forget Everything And Run – ★★ 3/4
While being a solid flick, Forget Everything And Run loses itself as it it unveils itself as a standard post-apocalyptic jaunt. A film that takes all too familiar footsteps & regretfully never tries to make its own path.
Dogwoof Announces 30th April UK & Irish On Demand Release For Truman & Tennessee: An Intimate Conversation
Directed by Lisa Immordino Vreeland (Peggy Guggenheim: Art Addict & Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel) Voice of Truman Capote: Jim Parsons Voice of Tennessee Williams: Zachary Quinto ‘A fascinating account of a loving but troubled relationship’ THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER ‘It is a story told in their own words
What’s Streaming This May On Shudder: A New Movie Premiere Every Week Including ‘Fried Barry,’ Neil Marshall’s ‘The Reckoning’ & ‘Psycho Goreman’
What’s Streaming This May On Shudder: A New Movie Premiere Every Week Including ‘Fried Barry,’ Neil Marshall’s ‘The Reckoning’ & ‘Psycho Goreman’
The Evening Redness in the South – ★★★★1/2
An astounding piece of cinema, Colin Hickey’s The Evening Redness in the South carefully carries you on a journey you never expected to take, a cinematic painting that stays with you. An entirely dialogue-free dramatic feature film. A visual tone poem following several workers on a building site in County Cork as their
THE UNITED WAY presented by Eric Cantona, coming to Blu-ray, DVD & DTO 10th May and Sky Documentaries & NOW 24th May
THE UNITED WAY presented by Eric Cantona, coming to Blu-ray, DVD & DTO 10th May and Sky Documentaries & NOW 24th May
The Oak Room – ★★★
As The Oak Room begins, you never expect it to be as thoroughly engaging as it eventually becomes. Cody Calahan’s film is assumedly effective in a lo-fi movie that strikes you with its simple premise and striking visuals.
The Banishing – ★★★
The Banishing – ★★★
A solid ghost story, with some great performances, Christopher Smith’s The Banishing gets so close to being a tremendous, however it fizzles out all too soon before the end credits.
ARROW Offers Classic and Cutting Edge Cult Cinema Filmmaking Doc Clapboard Jungle Streaming April 19
ARROW Offers Classic and Cutting Edge Cult Cinema Filmmaking Doc Clapboard Jungle Streaming April 19
I Blame Society – ★★★ 3/4
Gillian Wallace Horvat’s wonderfully uncomfortable yet sharp debut feature I Blame Society, is a film that gets under your skin and once it gets going takes zero prisoners. We have a film that is as fantastic as it is creative.
The Head Hunter – ★★★★
Jordan Downey’s atmospheric The Head Hunter is a beautifully shot piece that does so much right with so little that you are left begging for more. A thriller that knows what its intentions are and executes them perfectly.
The Reckoning – ★★
The high hopes of Neil Marshalls The Reckoning is quickly dissipated by a run of the mill story with woeful dialogue and one of the most overpowering scores in recent times. This is one that sadly needs to be avoided. Set against the Great Plague’s backdrop and subsequent witch-hunts against women, Grace
What’s Eating Gilbert Grape – ★★★★
With a powerful and relatable storyline, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape is a look at small-town America that gives it all the respect it deserves, allowing the film to keep its heart. Gilbert Grape (Johnny Depp) feels trapped – with no father present and an eccentric family to care for, he
Siberia – ★★ 1/2
Siberia is a film that will disappoint those wanting an intriguing thriller, but if you stick around for a doomed romance plot, then there is something worthwhile here. Sadly there isn’t much else to grasp onto.
Fantasia’s unveils new 25th anniversary poster and announces plans for virtual 2021 event.
FANTASIA’S 25th EDITION TO OPEN WITH WORLD PREMIERE OF THE ASTOUNDING QUÉBÉCOIS ZOMCOM BRAIN FREEZE FESTIVAL UNVEILS NEW 25th ANNIVERSARY POSTER AND ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR VIRTUAL 2021 EVENT, RUNNING FROM AUGUST 5 – 25 Thursday, April 8, 2021 // Montreal, Quebec — The Fantasia International Film Festival will be celebrating
Sequin in a Blue Room – ★★★★
Samuel Van Grinsven’s debut feature is a superb cautionary tale for young gay men, Sequin in a Blue Room is film at its best. This is an essential watch. Sequin (Conor Leach) explores his burgeoning sexuality through an obsession with anonymous, no-strings sexual encounters. That is until he finds his way into The
’80s SCI-FI SUPERDOC IN SEARCH OF TOMORROW ADDS IVAN REITMAN, GALE ANNE HURD, AND PETER WELLER TO ROSTER
UPCOMING ’80s SCI-FI SUPERDOC IN SEARCH OF TOMORROW ADDS IVAN REITMAN, GALE ANNE HURD, AND PETER WELLER TO ROSTER OF IN-DEPTH CELEBRITY INTERVIEWS FILMMAKING TEAM BEHIND THE CELEBRATED IN SEARCH OF DARKNESS ‘80s HORROR DOCUMENTARY SERIES BOASTS NEW PROJECT WITH OVER 75+ INTERVIEWS WITH SCIENCE-FICTION ICONS Los Angeles, CA – April 8th,
Sam and Mattie Make A Zombie Movie – ★★★★
You will be hard-pressed to find a documentary about the production of a horror film that will leave you with as much warmth in your heart as you do here.
A reminder that filmmaking can be a dream come true.
Anthony Hopkins The Virtuoso to be released on Digital Download 30 April and DVD 10 May
Lionsgate presents Anthony Hopkins, Anson Mount and Abbie Cornish in The Virtuoso on Digital Download 30 April and DVD 10 May EVERY BETRAYAL BEGINS WITH TRUST Anson Mount (Star Trek: Discovery) is a deadly assassin sent on a mission by his cold-blooded boss, 2021 Oscar®-nominee Anthony Hopkins (The Father), in slick neo-noir thriller The
Second Sight to release Lake Mungo on Limited Edition Blu-Ray May 31st
‘One of the greatest films ever made, horror or otherwise’ Rob Savage ‘A classic supernatural enigma, once seen never forgotten’ Projected Figures ‘It’s devastating, it’s terrifying, and I think every single person with a pulse should watch it at least once and then immediately call their loved ones’ Collider ‘Read between
Sam & Mattie Make a Zombie Movie available now
Inspiring Documentary Chronicles Two Teens with Down Syndrome Who Rallied their Friends and Neighbors to Make a Hollywood Dream Come True. Available Nationwide on Cable VOD and Digital HD Providence, RI — What happens when two best friends with Down syndrome rally their hometown of Providence to help realize their
Portal (AKA Doors) – ★★★
Portal has high aspirations, and for that, it should be commended and ably brings the audience in with it. Sadly it never keeps up its end of the bargain, and those expectations that the audience had are never met.
Hellraiser: Evolutions – ★★★
A short, yet interesting look at the long running series that is perfect as a starter introduction to the 30 year plus franchise.
Available on Arrow Player now as part of their stories section.
For the Sake of Vicious – ★★★★
Welcome to your new favourite cult midnight movie. For the Sake of Vicious is a film that wears its bloody heart on its sleeve and, after a tense opening half, let’s loose in ways that will have you clapping away in glee.
Willy’s Wonderland – ★ 1/2
Willy’s Wonderland is a stupid film, not a fun horror. It is a pointless film trying to piggyback on a tired videogame. Utterly terrible and devoid of anything worthwhile. Toss into the forget immediately pile. I wish I could.
Red Rage – ★★
Red Rage throws everything at the wall, and in some cases, parts stick, but far too often, it slides down said wall as slowly as possible, and never bothers trying to clean up its own mess.
Mercenary For Justice – ★★
If you want to know the quality deep within Steven Seagals Mercenary For Justice, there is a line in the film that goes, “Yeah, that’s it for you poophole”, and in a weird sort of way, that sums up the film perfectly.
Torpedo: U-235 – ★★★ 1/2
Sven Huynrecht’s Torpedo U-235 is a contemporary submarine film that ticks all of the boxes you need. This is a film that will surprise you with just how good it is. This is a highly rewatchable flick.
Final Days – ★★★ 1/2
Johnny Martin’s Final Days take its time with its story but wisely uses that time to build up a great sense of desolation for the survivors as the action becomes more and more intense. While not reinventing the wheel, this is a surprisingly solid film.
The Black Windmill – ★★★ 1/2
Don Seigel and Michael Caines underseen film The Black Windmill was Taken before Taken could be a thing. This new release from 101 Films brings us a solid film that brings together great actors in an entertainingly gritty crime thriller.
ARROW Goes Behind The Scenes In April
In April, ARROW premieres an exclusive new documentary, exploitation classics, and essential film noirs! Key highlights this APRIL on the essential, alternative streaming service ARROW include the exclusive premiere of Justin McConnell’s revealing filmmaking documentary CLAPBOARD JUNGLE, a spotlight on the works of Takeshi “Beat” Kitano, Season 3 of the acclaimed Italian crime series GOMORRAH, unmissable noir,
Second Sight Announces Standard Edition Bly-Rays of Cult Classics This April
Second Sight Announces Standard Edition Bly-Rays of Cult Classics This April
Shortcut – ★ 1/2
We have a film that totally misreads what audience it should be targeting and by trying to go more mature, Shortcut never convinces its audience enough. This is a film that needs to be aimed at younger audiences to be more effective.
He Dreams Of Giants – ★★★★
An intimate, compelling documentary about Terry Gilliam’s battle to make his white whale. This fascinating glimpse is as sincere as a documentary about filmmaking can get.
BFI Flare Shorts – Into the Unknown
As we reach the end of BFI Flare, we highlight the absolutely fantastic shorts that the festival had on offer. Blurred lines of love & friendship between women are explored in these poignant and beautiful films.
BFI Flare Shorts – For The Record
As we reach the end of BFI Flare, we look at the shorts section. Second up is For the Record, traversing a wide range of subjects, this inspiring selection of short-form documentaries is guaranteed to provoke & inspire.
BFI Flare Shorts – Beginnings and Endings
As we reach the end of BFI Flare, it is time to highlight the absolutely fantastic shorts that the festival had on offer. Throughout today we will be breaking down the seven categories and all of their films. First up is the Beginnings and Endings section. If you miss out
The Night – ★★★★
Kourosh Ahari’s The Night is a throwback of a horror that allows for its ample tension to build, coupled with a great script and two fantastic performances, this is a film that never lets you settle.
Charlie Says (2019) – ★★ 1/2
Charlie Says lacks the substance to keep itself moving and when the script has so little depth to it, the whole movie struggles and becomes a laboured piece. A disappointment that missed its chance to say something of note.
Escape Plan 3 (2019) ★★ 1/2
Sylvester Stallone returns for Escape Plan 3, which is far better than the sequel but still languishes from the original. This serviceable action jaunt isn’t the best film, but it never tries to pretend to be.
An Impossible Project – ★★★★
A heartwarming love letter to a more physical world, An Impossible Project is a wonderful documentary by Jens Meurer. A film that both digital and analogue lovers can enjoy and one that they will find hard not to smile throughout. For some, digital is all they know and has totally
The Eight Hundred – ★★★★
Hu Guan’s The Eight Hundred is a tour de force of a war film that showcases heroism at its finest. This brutal film, likes the soldiers in the Shang warehouse, gives no quarters. An awe-inspiring film.
Demon ★ 1/2
Demon is a film that, if given a 30-minute runtime, would be an exceptional look at racial bias and male mental health. Sadly it goes on for too long with too many terrible performances worsened by a plot that doesn’t do enough—a true shame.
Josie and Jack (2019) ★★ 1/2
Sarah Lancaster’s debut feature has promising glimpses of a bright future; sadly, her film is held down. Not by two horrible men, but by a misfiring script that doesn’t go far enough with its story, leaving its audience unfortunately cold.
Reunion – ★★★ 1/2
Jake Mahaffy’s Reunion utilises its slow-burn storytelling to compel its audience. This complex tale occasionally trips itself up, but with a killer finale, it makes it a film that is worth the build.
Tove ★★★ 1/2 – BFI Flare
Tove is an engaging glimpse into the bisexual life of Tove Jansson, known for the wonderful Moomins. Zaida Bergroth’s biopic is a personal take on Jansson and one that enchants you early on, thanks to Alma Pöysti’s careful performance.
P.S. Burn This Letter Please – ★★★★ 1/2 BFI Flare
Jennifer Tiexiera and Michael Seligman’s P.S. Burn This Letter Please is an astounding documentary that captures its audience early and never let’s go. Full of important stories and experiences, this is an essential watch.
Sweetheart ★★★ 1/2 – BFI Flare
Marley Morrison’s feature debut, Sweetheart, takes ahold of you with its striking charm and sharp dialogue. Coupled with strong performances, this is as entertaining as it is relatable.
Dramarama ★★★★ – BFI Flare
Dramarama gets everything right and becomes the coming of age story that others strive to be. A film that surprises with how strongly it connects causing you to reminisce to your younger days when you were on the cusp of university. A terrific film.
Firebird ★★★ – BFI Flare
While Firebird is a very earnest film, it never allows itself to go through the gears of creating something as emotional as it thinks it should be. By doing this, Peeter Rebane’s film comes across as underwritten and fails to have us fall for the characters on the screen.
Cowboys ★★★★ – BFI Flare
Anna Kerrigan’s Cowboys is a family drama full of emotion and nuance that stays true to itself. This intimate story is as honest as they come.
Cured ★★★★ – BFI Flare
Cured is a film that celebrates the struggle for LGBTQ rights in an era where a simple line in a book stole their freedom for decades. This film has a direct motive in highlighting and educating its audience, to which it does so tremendously.
My First Summer – ★★★★ 1/2 BFI Flare
My First Summer is such a delicate film full of tenderness and love that you can’t help but fall head over heels with it. From the absorbing script to the beautiful cinematography and the standout performances from its leads. Katie Found’s debut feature is one to cherish.
Sacrifice – ★★★
Sacrifice is a horror that forgets that it is trying to tell its audience a story and instead focuses on giving us beautiful shots and imagery. With an able cast who do their best, they are hindered by an underwritten script.
The Greenhouse ★★★★★ BFI Flare
The Greenhouse is a film that is ambitious, and you can see how much heart Wilson-White has given to it; this is a film that stays with you long after you have finished watching it. A hauntingly beautiful picture.
Jump, Darling – ★★★★ BFI Flare
Phil Connell unfurls a wonderful picture with Jump, Darling, showing a great deal of poetic beauty throughout, thanks to two fantastic performances from Thomas Duplessie and the late Cloris Leachman.
Slaxx – ★★★★ (Shudder)
Elza Kephart’s pointed sharp horror satire Slaxx gives the audience everything they never knew they wanted. A pair of possessed jeans that have the want to murder everyone near them. We have a film here that is an utter joy to watch.
Lava (2019) – ★★★
Lava finds Buenos Aires in a state of chaos as giant snakes, cats and witches start taking out people one by one. This entertaining, albeit all too short feature, is a lighthearted adult animation that will bring the chuckles and you asking for more. Débora, a lonely tattoo artist, endeavours to
Silk Road (2021) – ★★★
Silk Road sees documentarian Tiller Russell venture into dramatic fare with a story that should be right up his alley. Yet by altering this true story, some of the emphasis is lost, hindering itself from the get-go.
Oscars 2021 Nominations Predictions
We return with as extensive as we can get predictions of the nomations for the 2021 Academy Awards.
The Columnist – ★★★★
Ivo van Aarts horror satire delights in asking questions about free speech, censorship and validation in an online world. This sharp film is an absolute must-watch.
Fukushima 50 – ★★★
While Fukushima 50 comes from a more fact-based background, it can pinpoint how close Japan was to total disaster and how a small group of plant workers became heroes. An emotionally rewarding film of heroism.
Last Moment of Clarity – ★★ 3/4
Last Moment of Clarity is a thriller in all but name only; we have a film with endless possibilities, but it never has a chance to breathe due to its truncating runtime.
The Ice Cream Truck (2017) – ★★ 3/4
Lost in what direction and story it wants to tell, a film that could have so much promise as a drama or a horror. Instead, this mishmash doesn’t go far enough with either subplot to make itself felt.
The Winter Lake – ★★★
Phil Sheerin’s bleak Irish drama is held together thanks to its four leads and some superb direction. The Winter Lake slightly lacks in its plot development; however, those wanting a low key mystery drama are in for a treat.
ARROW Blooms Into Spring with March Lineup, Jill Gevargizian’s THE STYLIST
Arrow Video is excited to announce the March 2021 lineup of their new subscription-based ARROW platform, now also available to UK subscribers, joining the US and Canada.
Come True – ★★★★
Anthony Scott Burns moody and lo-fi science fiction film has echoes of Cronenberg as it stylishly engrosses yet at the same time unsettles. A terrific movie that is a gem ready to be discovered by audiences.
The Stylist (Arrow) – ★★★★
Jill Gevargizian continues her upward trajectory as a filmmaker with her strong feature debut The Stylist. Led by the empathetic yet murderous Najarra Townsend, we are given a film that expands upon her 2016 short tremendously.
Lucky (Shudder) – ★★★ 1/2
It may not seem it at first, but Natasha Kermani’s Lucky is an angry film that challenges its audience while still wearing its heart firmly on its bloody sleeve. A sharp film that makes it’s presence felt.
35th BFI FLARE: LONDON LGBTIQ+ FILM FESTIVAL 2021 FULL PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED
35th BFI FLARE: LONDON LGBTIQ+ FILM FESTIVAL 2021 FULL PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED
17th – 28th March available digitally UK-wide on BFI Player
Horror films to watch: Letter N Part 2
The letter N just had too many good horror films, so we venture into part 2 of 3. With a broad range of films here, there is something for any genre fans.
Butchers – ★★ 3/4
A decent homage to the well worn hill billy films. Butchers has the potential to be far more better than it ends up being floundering by being just too predictable with its story and plentiful clichés.
Gatecrash – ★★★★
Laurence Gough’s second feature is a film that you cannot predict, and from the tense and harrowing opening, the audience will not be able to peel their eyes away from the screen. A true gem of a picture.
Demons and Demons 2 – Arrow Boxset ★★★★ 1/2
Lamberto Bava’s essential Italian horror films Demons and Demons 2 are getting the Ultra 4K treatment from Arrow. This marvelous boxset is a must buy chocked full of extras and commentaries. An splatter fest joy.
Shogun’s Joy of Torture – ★★★★
Exploitation cinema has been around for a very long time; how long? Well, Shogun’s Joy of Torture was made in 1968, and it has been given the complete Arrow Video treatment in this wonderfully depraved Blu Ray release.
Wrong Turn 2021 – ★★★ 3/4
We have a film striving to take a big step away from its predecessors, and it is all the better for doing so. Wrong Turn is an intense, well-written horror that puts its solid stamp on the genre.
Butchers – Brutal independent Canadian horror heading to Digital Download on 22nd Feb and DVD on 8th March
Butchers – Brutal independent Canadian horror heading to Digital Download on 22nd Feb and DVD on 8th March.
The Owners – ★★★
Never rob from someone you know. That is the lesson in Julius Berg’s The Owners. . Not a knockout, but it might knock your granny’s false teeth out.
What Lies Below – ★★★ 3/4
Braden R. Duemmler’s What Lies Below is a stylish sci-fi horror driven by its three exceptional leads. With a great premise with a multitude of interesting elements, this is an atmospheric film not to let sneak under your radar.
The Curse of Dracula – ★★★ 1/4
A film that really comes from nowhere to become a surprising joy of a horror.
Skin Collector (aka Shiver) 2012 – ★★
Despite a strong performance from Danielle Harris, Skin Collector is held down by it’s laugh out loud bad script. With some great ideas, this should be far better than it eventually ended up being. Such a disappointment.
The Nightingale – ★★★★ Blu Ray
Jennifer Kent’s The Nightingale is an extraordinary bold film that is never afraid to go where others dare not. Coupled with performances that will live long in the memory, this is a film that needs to be seen.
Shook ★★★ 1/2 – Shudder release
Jennifer Harrington’s feature is a stylish horror with a great premise. It’s problematic opening half is far outweighed by its excellent second. Shook offers a scathing look at the effects of social media on today’s influencer crazed society. A film that has so much potential, but just doesn’t quite hit
Ashes in the Snow ★★★ – Digital Release
A heartbreaking tale of losing one’s innocence during Soviet occupation, by a regime that cares as little for you or its soldiers. It struggles to remain compelling despite some particularly strong performances.
Anti-Life (aka Breach) ★★
A film that has its moments, but is seriously held back by some of the disinterested cast and CGI effects that time forgot. Anti-Life could be so much better than it ends up being. A real shame.
Broil ★★★ – Digital Release
Broil brings with it an interesting premise and a sprinkling of great moments. Yet struggles with this potential. In the end actually needing more runtime to flesh itself out. However, this is still a film where much reward can be found.
Clementine (2019) ★★★ – Digital Release
Lara Jean Gallagher’s feature debut takes us on a slow journey filled with mystery and questions as it has the viewer sink into its interesting mood. Sadly it leads itself astray, but not enough to lose the audience.
Hurt By Paradise ★★★ – Digital Release
Greta Bellemacina’s Hurt By Paradise is a whimsically charming piece that floats through its running time by rarely giving its audience something to grab onto to fully embrace both of the leads.
Tammy and the T-Rex ★★1/2 – Blu Ray Review
Tammy and The T-Rex is a shamelessly fun B-Movie that has been given its rightful cut by 101 Films. An utter joy of a cult comedy horror.
In Search of Darkness II – ★★★★★
In Search of Darkness II – ★★★★★
A perfect, 260-minute sequel doc that enhances & expands on its original. An utter joy for not only a fan of the genre but a fan of cinema.
Available now from February 5 to February 14th 2021 at http://www.80sHorrorDoc.com.
Lost Girls and Love Hotels – ★★★
Director William Olssen’s Lost Girls and Love Hotels presents a bleak character study of a person trying to numb their senses to forget their past. A film about loneliness and yearning to forget.
Rams (2020) ★★★ 1/2 – Digital Release
Jeremy Sims’ brings us a warm-hearted jaunt in rural Western Australia that keeps the humour while never being afraid to bring the drama and a few tears.
A Glitch In The Matrix – ★ 1/2
A documentary, that could be interesting, but turns out that it is a documentary that thinks it has something to say when in truth it has nothing of note to convey. An utter waste of time.
ARROW – February Streaming Launch
February sees the launch of ARROW – a superb new streaming site for exclusive film premieres, cult and arthouse classics, and critically acclaimed TV from all over the world
A Nightmare Wakes ★★★★ – Shudder
Nora Unkel’s feature debut A Nightmare Wakes is a stunning piece of film that unsettles the audience from the start while remaining true to its human tone.
A Ghost Waits – ★★★★ 1/2
A Ghost Waits is a pitch-perfect film. With faultless performances from its two leads, this is a wonderfully empathetic film that won’t be long forgotten. A brilliant must see gem.
I Am Toxic (2018) – ★★ 1/2
Pablo Pares I Am Toxic is a missed opportunity of a horror that goes for the easy plot points when the more complex narratives were staring it squarely in the face.
Crone Wood (2016) – ★★ 1/2
Mark Sheridan’s Irish horror has elements that work tremendously, leads Elva Trill & Ed Murphy are particularly strong. Sadly Crone Wood just fades away by trying to do too much in the short runtime it has.
White Lie – ★★★★ 1/2
White Lie is an intricate character study that racks up the tension as we follow a character getting further backed into a corner because of her actions. Kacey Rohl is breath-taking as the complex Katie.
The Furnace – ★★★
Writer/director Roderick MacKay brings his audience a compelling thriller in The Furnace, thanks to a stand out performance from Ahmed Malek and a landscape that shows the brutal Australia desert at its best.
The Queen of Black Magic ★★★ 1/2
Indonesian horror The Queen of Black Magic will surprise you by just how good it is. A visually appealing film with some great scares to set a solid benchmark for the genre for the rest of 2021.
Shark Attack 3: Megalodon ★ 1/2
Shark Attack 3: Megalodon is not a good movie, but it’s total lack of quality makes it unintentionally hilarious. With the final 20 minutes causing me to almost throw up from laughing. If that isn’t a reason to watch this film, I don’t know what is.
Tokyo Dragon Chef – ★★★
Yoshihiro Nishimura’s Tokyo Dragon Chef is a toned-down version of his previous bloody work, but this reined in style only enhances his joyful work. An utter joy for fans of his work and a handy introduction to those who haven’t seen his films.
LX 2048 – ★★★
Guy Moshes LX 2048 starts so promisingly but begins to teeter off the edge by the final act. Such a shame as James D’Arcy commands a film that poses interesting questions, without ever truly trying to figure out the answers.
Summer of ’72 ★★★1/2 – Digital Release
Summer of ’72 is a strong showing from feature debut writer-director Philip Harder. His film tries to balance two main themes at once. Just getting away with it thanks to some stunning visuals and stand out performances from Natalia Dyer and Marchánt Davis.
JSA – Joint Security Area ★★★★
Chan-Wook Parks intense thriller JSA – Joint Security Area is an engrossing thriller that that put his name at the end of everyone’s tongues.
January ARROW Shorts Review: Part 2
Arrow Films Video presents an exclusive selection of the entries from its HORROR LOCKDOWN SHORTS contest. Little horror gems that show no matter the confines, creativity is endless.
Jan ARROW Shorts Review: Part 1
In January ARROW presents an exclusive selection of the outstanding entries from its HORROR LOCKDOWN SHORTS contest, short films delivering slick, sharp scares, delving into oft-uncharted and bizarre worlds,
![[REC] ★★★★ – Arrow Blu Ray Release](https://i0.wp.com/upcomingonscreen.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/0_8aDLnf5iCnUi94d3.jpg?fit=1011%2C538&ssl=1)
[REC] ★★★★ – Arrow Blu Ray Release
[REC] is a claustrophobic horror gem that took everyone by surprise and 13 years later, it still cements itself as one of the best horror films of the 21st Century. An exhilarating 74-minute ride
Away ★★★★ 1/2 – Digital Release
Away is a beautiful and stunning piece of cinema that shows the glory of the medium when used creatively. For a one man show, this is a marvel. This is a stunning must see.
Schemers ★★
Schemers is a film, produced, written and directed by David McLean, about himself. This self-focus and vanity are what stops the film from being something more interesting.
The Exception ★★★ – Digital Release
The Exception discuss too many topics in its limited runtime, causing it to lose itself a tad. Despite this, we are still given a tense drama that is elevated by its four leads.
12 Hour Shift ★★★ – Digital Release
While lacking in development writer/director Brea Grant delivers a surprisingly entertaining flick that isn’t afraid to dip its toes into the absurd.
The Call ★★ 1/2 – DVD and Digital Release
Timothy Woodward Jr’s 80s centric horror jaunt The Call gives audiences a solid premise that is seemingly tossed away for no apparent reason by the time we reach the third act.
Daniel ★★★★ 1/2 – DVD & Digital Release
Filled with strong performances, Daniel is a harrowing reminder to what happened to captives held by ISIS. Bold and raw, this is a harrowing film, but one that is important to watch.
Seized ★★★ – Digital Release
Seized is a low budget action thriller that ticks all the boxes for fans. Scott Adkins and Mario Van Peebles shine in a film that brings you in for the action, but makes you stay for the fantastically ridiculous dialogue.
Synchronic ★★★★ – Digital Release
Synchronic is a brilliant film that takes what could be a standard drama or thriller and evolves it to become a high concept sci-fi that easily surpasses films of its ilk with far greater budgets.
Horror films to watch: Letter B Part 2
A look back at horror films to watch beginning with the letter B. Part 2 as there was just too many to contain in one post!
Top films of 2020
There are no top 10s or top 15s from me this year, it has been that kind of year hasn’t it? For films at least it has been actually quite the banner year, yes a lot of films have been pushed to online viewing so we have missed the joy
Alone ★★★★ – Digital Release
Alone, is a rare survival thriller that rises above the well-deserved hype and allows it’s cast to shine in a minimalist film that packs one hell of a punch.
Let’s Scare Julie ★★★ 1/2 – Digital release
Let’s Scare Julie is a bold one-take horror that is rife with tension thanks to its excellent young cast, it just doesn’t provide us with enough scares.
Blind ★★ – Digital Review
Blind has the story and a lead that could have it be quite an interesting horror film. Yet it flounders in areas that it most certainly should not. A stylish looking film that offers nothing else.
Here Awhile ★★★ 1/2 – Digital release
Here Awhile is a sensitively written and directed piece that is enhanced by two fantastic turns by the Anna Camp and Steven Strait. A careful and thoughtful film.
Smiley Face Killers ★★ – Digital Release
Smiley Face Killers is a film with an intriguing first act coupled with a nasty third act. Yet it is firmly held back by a shockingly bad middle act.
Safe Spaces ★★★ 1/2 – Digital Review
Safe Spaces is a touching and emotionally effective comedy-drama that details the challenges of acceptance and taking responsibility for events that happen in one’s life.
McLintock! (1963) ★★★ 1/2 – John Wayne series
In memory of my dad who passed away in December, we take a look at some films of his favourite actor. John Wayne. First up is 1963’s McLintock!
