The Grue-Crew hug their dollies tight as they witness Annabelle: Creation. Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week with the first trailer for mother!, whispers of a Hannibal TV revival, and plans for The Munsters returning to NBC. Closing out the show Thomas challenges The Black Saint to a double round of Stump the Saint!
As always, the HNR Grue-Crew would love to hear from you, the listeners, the fans. You can always reach out via email at feedback(AT)horrornewsradio(DOT)com or find us on Twitter: Doc Rotten | Dave Dreher | The Black Saint | Thomas Mariani. Also, like us on Facebook and join the Horror News Radio Facebook Group.
Horror News Radio
Episode 228 – Annabelle: Creation (2017)
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Joseph Perry shares his thoughts on a film he caught at the Buchon Internation Film Festival called Better Watch Out (2017). The film will also screen at the Popcorn Fright Film Festival. It also took the "gold prize" for "Best North American, South American, or European Feature Film" at the 2017 Fantasia International Film Festival. Better Watch Out is from director Chris Peckover and features Levi Miller, Olivia DeJonge, Virginia Madsen, Ed Oxenbould, and Patrick Warburton. Listen to Joseph's review below and let us know what you think.
Better Watch Out (2017) 4 out of 5 starts
Better Watch Out opens in select theaters and Video on Demand October 6, 2017, from WellGo USA.
Synopsis:
On a quiet suburban street, a babysitter must defend a twelve-year-old boy from intruders, only to discover it's far from a normal home invasion.
Director: Chris Peckover
Writers: Zach Kahn and Chris Peckover
Cast: Dacre Montgomery, Levi Miller, Olivia DeJonge, Virginia Madsen, Ed Oxenbould, and Patrick Warburton
Run time: 1h 25min
Previously known as Safe Neighborhood
Paul Cardullo welcomes back Doc Rotten to discuss another feature from the recent Fantasia Internation Film Festival. This time it is the Argentina film Dead Man Tells His Own Tale (2017, "El Muerto Cuenta su Historia"). The film is from director Fabian Forte from a script he co-wrote with Nicolas Britos. The cast includes Diego Gentile, Mariana Anghileri, Emila Attias, and Damian Dreizik. The story follows Angel who is murdered by a group of blood-sucking Celtic faeries who turn his corpse into a zombie-slave. Doc shares his thoughts below.
Dead Man Tells His Own Tale (2017) 3 out of 5
Original title: "El Muerto Cuenta su Historia"
Director: Fabian Forte
Writers: Fabian Forte and Nicolas Britos
Cast: Diego Gentile, Mariana Anghileri, Emila Attias, and Damian Dreizik
Run time: 90 min
“They're coming to get you, Barbara,” Johnny teases his sister. Things didn’t turn out so well for Johnny or Barbra. The horror community lost a giant when George Romero died July 16, 2017. Join the Decades of Horror: The Classic Era crew – Erin Miskell, Chad Hunt, Joseph Perry, and Jeff Mohr – as we pay tribute to Mr. Romero by taking a shot at his masterpiece, Night of the Living Dead.
Decades of Horror: The Classic Era
Episode 15 – Night of the Living Dead (1968)
George Romero is co-writer (with John Russo), director, cinematographer, and editor of Night of the Living Dead. Made in the Pittsburgh area for only $114,000 in 1968, the film grossed $30,000,000 and established the rules of zombie behavior for many, many films to follow.
The story follows seven people - Ben (Duane Jones), Barbra (Judith O’Dea), Tom (Keith Wayne), Judy (Judith Ridley), Harry Cooper (Karl Hardman), his wife Helen (Marilyn Eastman), and their daughter Karen (Kyra Schon) - trapped in an isolated farmhouse, besieged by a growing legion of the living dead. Key supporting roles in Night of the Living Dead include Russell Streiner as Johnny, George Kosana as Sheriff McClelland, Bill Cardille as the field News Reporter, and S. William Hinzman (Bill Heinzman) as the first ghoul.
Your intrepid Grue Crew also ventures into a discussion of the cultural, sociological, and historical events coinciding with the making and release of the film and the effects they have on them as they rewatch Night of the Living Dead. A resounding cheer is heard for the recent 4k restoration of the film currently receiving a limited theatrical run, and for the possibility of a new 4k Blu-ray release sometime soon.
Lastly, Jeff reads some listener feedback on Episode 14 - Bride of Frankenstein from Dave Johnston, and on Episode 11 - The Mummy from saltyessentials. Be sure to check out salty’s blog, Dead Man’s Brain.
We plan to release a new episode every other week. The next episode in our very flexible schedule is Jû jin yuki otoko (the original 1955 Japanese version, aka Half Human).
Please let us know what you think of Decades of Horror: The Classic Era and what films you’d like to hear us cover! We want to hear from you! After all, without you, we’re just four nutjobs talking about the films we love. Send us an email (chadhunt@gruesomemagazine.com, erinmiskell@gruesomemagazine.com, jeffmohr@gruesomemagazine.com, or josephperry@gruesomemagazine.com) or leave us a message, a review, or a comment at GruesomeMagazine.com, iTunes, Stitcher, the Horror News Radio App, or the Horror News Radio Facebook group.
To each of you from each of us, “Thank you for listening!”
Joseph Perry shares his thoughts about the coming of age thriller Super Dark Times (2017) which played at the Popcorn Frights Film Festival. The film is directed by Kevin Phillips and written by Ben Collins and Luke Piotrowski. The cast includes Owen Campbell, Charlie Tahan, and Elizabeth Cappuccino. Joseph champions the direction, the acting, and the thrilling, tight script. Listen below to check out his review.
Super Dark Times (2017) 4.5 out of 5
Synopsis:
Teenagers Zach and Josh have been best friends their whole lives, but when a gruesome accident leads to a cover-up, the secret drives a wedge between them and propels them down a rabbit hole of escalating paranoia and violence.
Director: Kevin Phillips
Writers: Ben Collins and Luke Piotrowski
Cast: Owen Campbell, Charlie Tahan, and Elizabeth Cappuccino
Runtime: 100 min
Dave Dreher sits down with Doc to discuss the fantastic anthology film Volumes of Blood: Horror Stories. Featuring the work of Sean Blevins, John William Holt, Jon Maynard, Nathan Thomas Milliner, Justin Seaman, and James Treakle with an ensemble cast including Cindy Maples, Moses Moseley, Theo Kostaridis, and Thomas Dunbar, Volumes of Blood : Horror Stories features 7 original stories craftily assembled by producing team P.J. Starks, Eric Huskisson (The Confession of Fred Krueger), and Christopher Bower (The Dooms Chapel Horror).
[powerpress]
Volumes of Blood: Horror Stories [usr 4]
A couple plans to purchase an old home, but would like one last tour before the closing. They’re guided around the estate by a creepy realtor that may have more in store than they bargained for. Searching floor by floor, they begin to discover the remnants of its sordid and terrifying past… A popular 80’s franchise gets a modern upgrade, but at what price? On Halloween night a teen left home alone meets a trick or treater that wants more than just candy. A door to door insurance salesman makes a Thanksgiving house call with monstrous consequences. Andrew and Sara are happily married and plan on spending some quality time together, but something sinister has other plans for their evening. Carol’s Christmas Eve turns into a fight for survival when a vengeful stranger isn’t feeling the holiday spirit. Lastly, a birthday party turns bloody when some unexpected guests drop by at the wrong time. Seven interwoven tales of terror, how many stories does your house have?
"Choke on 'em. CHOKE ON 'EM!" Rhodes (Joseph Pilato) tells those ghouls exactly what they can do with his own guts. It's a terrifying example of zombie carnage. One that still stands as a special effects achievement for Tom Savini. Still, does that mean Day of the Dead holds a candle to what George A. Romero started in Night or Dawn? Some would say no. Others say it ratchets things up to the next level. Where does this crew stand? Tune in to find out!
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 114 – Day of the Dead (1985)
Day of the Dead seems like the redheaded stepchild of the original Living Dead trilogy. Not as groundbreaking as Night and not as incredibly successful as Dawn, Day is a unique beast. We see the development of the zombie apocalypse from initial phases to near extinction with this trilogy. Now, humanity is stuck underground and tensions are high. Food is running low, ammunition is being stock piled and there are factions being established. All the while, scientific progress is attempting to flourish as the scientist works with Bub (Sherman Howard), a zombie who shows signs of remembering his past. Even after better appraisal following lesser Romero zombie efforts like Diary or Survival, Day just seems to get lost in the shuffle.
Thomas enlists a few people to help find this card stuck in the deck. Santos Ellin Jr is amongst that crowd, praising Day of the Dead as the best of the Living Dead series. He loves the apocalyptic tone and brutal kills. Christopher G. Moore returns to the show and is less than impressed with the annoying characters and cheap look. Dragon*Con guru Derek Tatum comes on the show to give Day its... well, day in court. Thomas rounds out the cast by agreeing the film deserves more praise, as the best aspects surf over the problems without much issue. Mainly Bub as one of the stand out zombie characters of all time. Better than any of the zombies in Diary at any rate.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, most gruesome fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at thomasmariani@decadesofhorror.com or docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
If you're in the Atlanta area during Labor Day Weekend (Sept 1-4), make sure to visit us at Dragon*Con Horror Track!
Special thanks to Neon Devils for their awesome song Bone Chillin!
Pet Semetary (1989)
Paul Cardullo tackles another retro classic with this week's Groovy Gory Gruesome Gold entry. Arrow Video is releasing a limited edition of the iconic Re-Animator (1985) with a special edited cut of the film and tons of extras. Paul is here to give his thoughts on the film, enjoying the opportunity to revisit a classic that holds up today just as awesome as it did when released 32 years ago. Check out his review below.
Re-Animator (1985) [usr 4.75]
From Arrow Video:
US TITLE: Re-Animator (Blu-ray) Limited Edition
Stuart Gordon’s enduring splatter-comedy classic Re-Animator returns to Blu-ray in a stunning restoration packed with special features!
Pre-order now: http://bit.ly/2oRCh91
Release Dates: 25 July
HERBERT WEST HAS A GOOD HEAD ON HIS SHOULDERS… AND ANOTHER ONE ON HIS DESK.
One of the most wildly popular horror movies of all-time, Stuart Gordon’s enduring splatter-comedy classic Re-Animator returns to Blu-ray in a stunning restoration packed with special features!
When medical student Dean Cain advertises for a roommate, he soon finds one in the form of Dr. Herbert West. Initially a little eccentric, it some becomes clear that West entertains some seriously outlandish theories – specifically, the possibility of re-animating the dead. It’s not long before Dean finds himself under West’s influence, and embroiled in a serious of ghoulish experiments which threaten to go wildly out of control…
Based on H.P. Lovecraft’s classic terror tale ‘Herbert West – Reanimator’ and featuring a standout performance from Jeffrey Combs as the deliciously deranged West, Re-Animator remains the ground-zero of ’80s splatter mayhem and one of the genre’s finest hours.
Joseph Perry reviews the short film Pronoia from Marevan Pictures and writer/director Nick Efteriades. The short features Stelio Savante as Jeff, Hannah Jane McMurray as Camille, and Lou Mastantuono (AKA Lou Mast) as a policeman, in an enigmatic neo-noir mystery thriller with science fiction elements. Jeff and Camille meet on a stormy night in a posh hotel, but a news report about a missing government official (Marston Allen as Lt. Griswold) alters the course of events. Check out the review and let us know what you think!
Pronoia 4 out of 5
Pronoia premiered at the Academy-accredited Sunscreen film festival in competition and also won a Gold Remi award at World-Fest Houston. The short is available to watch online now at https://vimeo.com/213551675.
Doc Rotten joins Dave Dreher to review Annabelle: Creation (2017) the fourth in a series of films establishing The Conjuring Universe. The film is directed by David F. Sandberg and features Stephanie Sigman, Miranda Otto, Anthony LaPaglia, Lulu Wilson, Talitha Bateman, Kerry O'Malley, Philippa Coulthard, Grace Fulton, and Samara Lee. Much like Ouija: Origin of Evil, Annabelle: Creation is a prequel to a far lesser film, escalating the horror, screams, and fun. These two films also share the young star, Lulu Wilson. The film follows a doll maker and his wife who take in a group of orphans 12 years after their daughter dies tragically at an early age. One young girl, Janice (Talitha Bateman), discovers the hidden secrets of the house unleashing a once-vanquished evil ... and, of course, the Annabelle doll. But, the film is far more than that. Listen to hear what Doc has to say about Annabelle: Creation.
Annabelle: Creation 4 out of 5
ANNABELLE: CREATION (2017)
The next chapter in The Conjuring universe
Synopsis:
Several years after the tragic death of their little girl, a dollmaker and his wife welcome a nun and several girls from a shuttered orphanage into their home, soon becoming the target of the dollmaker's possessed creation, Annabelle.
Director: David F. Sandberg
Writer: Gary Dauberman
Cast: Stephanie Sigman, Miranda Otto, Lulu Wilson, Anthony LaPaglia, Talitha Bateman, Alicia Vela-Bailey, Kerry O'Malley, Philippa Coulthard, Joseph Bishara, Adam Bartley, Samara Lee, and Brian Howe
Producer: James Wan
Release Date: August 11, 2017
Rated R, 1h 49min
Paul Cardullo talks to Doc Rotten about the French horror-comedy from the Fantasia International Film Festival called The Mansion (Le Manior, 2017). The film is directed by Tony T. Datis and features Marc Jarousseau, Nathalie Odzierejko, and Ludovik Day. Paul discusses the pacing and humor of the film explaining how the film grows on you as the humor - which is often lost in translation - improves during its bloody third act. Check out the review below and let us know what you think!
The Mansion (Le Manior, 2017) [usr 3.5]
Synopsis:
A band of students comes to celebrate the New Year in an old manor house isolated from everything. But soon after their arrival, strange events disrupt the atmosphere, before the party turns squarely to the nightmare.
Director: Tony T. Datis
Writers: Bernardo Barilli, Bernardo Barilli, Dominique Gauriaud, Marc Jarousseau,Jurij Prette
Cast: Marc Jarousseau, Nathalie Odzierejko, Ludovik Day, Jérôme Niel,Yvick Letexier, Vincent Tirel, Vanessa Guide, Delphine Baril, Baptiste Lorber, Lila Lacombe, Willy Denzey, José Garcia
The Grue-Crew head to Mid-world to help the Gunslinger defend The Dark Tower (2017) from the evil Man in Black. Thomas and Doc set their eyes on a cool 68 thousand big ones for the VOD release of 68 Kill (2017). Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week with the passing of Haruo Nakajima, the man in the Godzilla suit. He also discusses the 2 disc collector's edition of The Dead Next Door and the upcoming remake of Death Wish from Eli Roth, featuring Bruce Willis. Closing out the show Thomas announces the winner of last month's Stump the Saint prize!
As always, the HNR Grue-Crew would love to hear from you, the listeners, the fans. You can always reach out via email at feedback(AT)horrornewsradio(DOT)com or find us on Twitter: Doc Rotten | Dave Dreher | The Black Saint | Thomas Mariani. Also, like us on Facebook and join the Horror News Radio Facebook Group.
Horror News Radio
Episode 227 – The Dark Tower (2017) – 68 Kill (2017)
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Joseph Perry joins Doc Rotten to discuss The Endless from directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead. Joseph caught the film at the Bucheaon Internation Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) in Bucheon, South Korea recently. The film also played at the Fantasia International Film Festival (July 12 - August 2, 2017) in Montreal, Canada and again at the upcoming Popcorn Frights Film Festival (August 11-17, 2017) in Miami, Florida. Listen below to hear Josephs thoughts on the film and the talented directors.
THE ENDLESS is the story of two brothers who return to the deal cult from which they fled a decade ago, to find that there might be some truth to the group’s otherworldly beliefs.
Directors: Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead
Screenwriter: Justin Benson
Cast: Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead, Tate Ellington, James Jordan, Shane Brady and Kira Powell
Producers: Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead, Thomas R. Burke, David Lawson Jr. and Leal Naim
TRT: 111 MIN
The Endless also won the top prize at BIFAN, the Best Of Bucheon prize.
"Don't fuck with me cock-knocker." George Stark (Timothy Hutton) has a way with words. Much like his doppleganger Thad Beaumont (also Hutton). It's a game of duality in The Dark Half, a film about a pseudonym brought to life. As well as addiction, paranoia and fame. Did we mention this is based on a Stephen King book? Bet you never would have guessed. There are plenty of allusions to King's work and time as an alcoholic writer adapted from the book. However, the question really is how the late George A. Romero adapted the material. Is it on the lighter half of that spectrum... or the darker one?
Decades of Horror 1990s
Episode 21 - The Dark Half (1993)
Dark Half is clearly very autobiographical for author Stephen King. A man known for his horror writing. Even under a pseudonym of Richard Bachmann, the man was legendary. But evidently, there's a dark side with riding under such a name. One that rears it's ugly head with Thad Beaumont and his alter ego George Stark clash over. Thad just wants to write to support his family without interruption. While George is a crazed lunatic out to use the killings to raise up his name. It's a battle of wills and madness as people show up dead and Thad is a suspect because... he's blackmailed by someone trying to reveal his pseudonym? What kind of stupid premise is this?
A premise the 90s crew are ready to go over. Joining Thomas for The Dark Half are Adam Thomas, Dave Dreher and for the first time Joey Fittos! The three discuss everything to do with The Dark Half as well as half a dozen other movies we trail off about. Adam praises George A. Romero for his competent direction. Dave and Adam have issues with how this adapts aspects of the book. Joey realizes that this isn't a TV movie. Thomas just praises it for not being Bruiser. It's a rather flighty discussion that at least reveals one thing: the truth of Theodor Geisel's secret blackmail scandal!
We want to hear from you – the coolest, most gruesome fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1990s podcast hosts at thomasmariani@decadesofhorror.com or tweet Thomas @NotTheWhosTommy. Also, make sure to give us some love via iTunes reviews and ratings. Helps us get more notice along the way.
The intro and outro is “Suck City” by Black Math. Look for more of their music via Free Music Archive.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
JJ Fitt reviews the gruesome gorefest Cut Shoot Kill from director Michael Walker. The film features Alexandra Socha, Alex Hurt, Phil Burke, Henry Zebrowski, and Rebecca Faulkenberry. Look for the film to be released digital on-demand on August 8, 2017. Listen to JJ's review and let us know what you think!
Cut Shoot Kill [usr 3] on the Thug Meter
On Digital On-Demand Nationwide August 8th!
Serena Brooks, an ambitious young actress, signs on as the star of a horror film with a crew of backwoods filmmakers that have worked together for years. When the cast starts disappearing, Serena has to become her character if she wants to survive!
Christopher G. Moore reviews the film The Transfiguration from Strand Releasing and director Michael O'Shea. The film features Eric Ruffin, Chloe Levine, and Jelly Bean in a story explores fantasy and reality and vampire lore. Check out the review below and let us know what you think!
The Transfiguration 5 out of 5
Strand Releasing is very proud to release the critically acclaimed horror-drama THE TRANSFIGURATION on VOD nationwide August 8th!
An official selection at the Cannes Film Festival, writer/director Michael O’Shea’s debut feature THE TRANSFIGURATION follows troubled teen Milo who hides behind his fascination with vampire lore. When he meets the equally alienated Sophie, the two form a bond that begins to challenge Milo’s dark obsession, blurring his fantasy into reality. A chilling portrait of violence, THE TRANSFIGURATION is a stunning atmospheric thriller set against the grit of New York City.
Color
How'd you like to wake up with pieces of cat in your stomach?" Eww! So says one of the dubious, but fearless, vampire hunters in this episode’s featured film, Count Yorga, Vampire (1970). Doc Rotten is still on hiatus, diligently working on the next issues of the Gruesome Magazine quarterly print edition (You have yours, right?). In the interim, your regular hosts, The Black Saint and Jeff Mohr, are joined by the capable and knowledgeable Bill Mulligan, film director and bon vivant, and Chad Hunt, comic book artist/writer and host of Decades of Horror: The Classic Era podcast. Journey with this episode's Grue Crew as they don their crushed velvet smoking jackets and channel the Count.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 56 – Count Yorga, Vampire (1970)
In Count Yorga, Vampire, Count Yorga (Robert Quarry) gives pseudo-séances while scouting women to victimize with the aid of his ghastly assistant Brudah (Edward Walsh). Paul (Michael Murphy) and Mike (Michael Macready) attempt to rescue the Count’s most recent victims, Donna (Donna Anders) and Erica (Judy Lang), with the help of Dr. James Hayes (Roger Perry).
The brainchild of writer/director Bob Kelljan and producer/actor Michael Macready, Count Yorga, Vampire was made on a skintight budget of $64,000 while having the look of a film with a much bigger investment. Robert Quarry gives an excellent performance as the Count and creates a vampire unlike any other in cinema. At one time, Quarry was thought to be a successor to Vincent Price, but events did not unfold as planned. Viewers will almost certainly recognize Roger Perry and Michael Murphy as accomplished, capable actors who plied their trade in film and television throughout several decades.
Count Yorga, Vampire has several iconic scenes that still haunt The Black Saint years after he first viewed the film as a seven-year-old. In fact, he places it in his top ten horror films of the 1970s. Bill Mulligan questions the filmmakers’ explanation of the kitten scene and thinks something a little more horrific might be closer to the truth - with the help of Brudah, of course. Jeff Mohr loves the film but questions whether an overdubbed, long walk through the city was an effective way for Paul and Mike to devise a rescue plan. In fact, Chad Hunt thinks they are the stupidest vampire hunters in the history of vampire films. The rest of the crew couldn’t disagree. Though there might be some holes in the plot, the hosts all highly recommend Count Yorga, Vampire for its production values, horrific and memorable scenes, and stylized vision of vampires.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at theblacksaint@decadesofhorror.com or docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
The Grue-Crew suffer through Kuso (2017) so you don't have to - oh, dear god, the horror. On the brighter side of horror, Thomas reviews A Ghost Story (2017) for some intellectual scares. To spice things up a bit, Thomas and Doc take a look at the theatrical release Atomic Blonde (2017) - John Wick meets James Bond with some gender bender action. Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week with a stunning new It trailer, Eli Roth documenting The History of Horror, and Kirk Hammet releasing a new book about classic horror movie posters, It's Alive. Closing out the show Thomas and Santos participate in a battle of wits with this week's Stump the Saint!
As always, the HNR Grue-Crew would love to hear from you, the listeners, the fans. You can always reach out via email at feedback(AT)horrornewsradio(DOT)com or find us on Twitter: Doc Rotten | Dave Dreher | The Black Saint | Thomas Mariani. Also, like us on Facebook and join the Horror News Radio Facebook Group.
Horror News Radio
Episode 226 – Kuso (2017) – A Ghost Story (2017) – Atomic Blonde (2017)
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“Sometimes I have wondered whether life wouldn't be much more amusing if we were all devils, no nonsense about angels and being good.” The Decades of Horror: The Classic Era crew – Chad Hunt, Jeff Mohr and Erin Miskell – are missing their fourth member, Joseph Perry, this week. Filling in for him is fellow Horror News Radio (and Decades of Horror: the 1980s and Decades of Horror: the 1990s) host Thomas Mariani, as we discuss the 1935 gem Bride of Frankenstein.
Decades of Horror: The Classic Era
Episode 14 – Bride of Frankenstein (1935)
After a mob attack upon himself and his creation, Dr. Henry Frankenstein (Colin Clive) is approached by former mentor Dr. Pretorius (Ernest Thesiger) to create a mate (Elsa Lanchester) for his Monster (Boris Karloff). The Monster, meanwhile, continues to elude angry townsfolk who want to destroy him before they get to know him.
A classic of the early horror era, Bride of Frankenstein features iconic performances by both Boris Karloff and Elsa Lanchester. Director James Whale – the same director that brought us Universal’s 1931 hit Frankenstein – returns to offer a continuation of a story of acceptance, loneliness, and creation.
Join our intrepid hosts and guest as we discuss our thoughts on Whale – the man, the myth and the legend – and the direction he decided to go with the sequel to his hit film. We also tackle the censorship issues encountered during the making of Bride of Frankenstein, as well as favorite characters and themes of loneliness, companionship, and morality. This episode’s Grue Crew also expresses their admiration for the score (Franz Waxman), photography (John J.Mescall), makeup (Jack P. Pierce), fantastic supporting cast (Una O’Connor, E.E. Clive, Dwight Frye, O.P. Heggie) and soon-to-be-famous bit players (Walter Brennan, John Carradine).
We plan to release a new episode every other week. Our upcoming and very flexible schedule includes Night of the Living Dead (1968), Jû jin yuki otoko (the original 1955 Japanese version, aka Half Human), and House on Haunted Hill (1959).
Please let us know what you think of Decades of Horror: The Classic Era and what films you’d like to hear us cover! We want to hear from you! After all, without you, we’re just four nutjobs talking about the films we love. Send us an email (chadhunt@gruesomemagazine.com, erinmiskell@gruesomemagazine.com, jeffmohr@gruesomemagazine.com, or josephperry@gruesomemagazine.com) or leave us a message, a review, or a comment at GruesomeMagazine.com, iTunes, the Horror News Radio App, or the Horror News Radio Facebook group.
To each of you from each of us, “Thank you for listening!”
"Uh oh, Brian. Now you're REALLY losing your mind." The mysterious creature Alymer (John Zacherle) is giving Brian (Rick Hearst) a pretty hard time. Acting like a real parasite on the back, you could say. Thus, the premise of Brain Damage comes to life. Just your average 80s "Say No To Drugs" special. You got it all; the young relatable protagonist, a drug pushing worm monster, and hallucinations that combine every drug imaginable. Frank Henenlotter's anti-drug masterpiece has gone underappreciated for nearly 30 years. But on Decades of Horror, we don't forget. We never forget.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 113 - Brain Damage (1988)
Brain Damage is one weird movie. Then again, a low budget flick from Frank Henenlotter (Frankenhooker, Basket Case) is bound t. The story of a young man getting addicted to drugs via a brain sucking parasite is pretty messed up. Especially when you become a vehicle to murder. Brain Damage has everything. Brains being sucked out of heads. Bizarro acting. An oral sex scene that turns into A Nightmare on Elm Street. It's a startling combination of Little Shop of Horrors and Reefer Madness that has to be seen to be believed.
Here to see and believe are Thomas Mariani and his guests Santos Ellin Jr and... his own pride and joy Mariana?! Yes, The Black Saint has brought his spawn to talk Brain Damage. Both go over their family bonding over a brain sucking slug. Thomas, on the other hand, is new to this one. He has plenty to say about the Reagan era drug film subversions and Zacherle's underrated voice acting. They're all so excited, they just need a drop of Almyer's juice. Just one to tide us over, man!
We want to hear from you – the coolest, most gruesome fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1980s podcast hosts at thomasmariani@decadesofhorror.com or docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
Special thanks to Neon Devils for their awesome song Bone Chillin!
Day of the Dead (1985)
First up for the Grue-Crew is the slow burn into survival horror Killing Ground from writer/director Damien Power. The Grue-Crew want to love Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets but just can't do it on pretty colors alone. Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week with the loss of the character actor John Heard and a barrage of SDCC 2017 Horror announcements. Closing out the show Thomas and Santos participate in a battle of wits with this week's Stump the Saint!
As always, the HNR Grue-Crew would love to hear from you, the listeners, the fans. You can always reach out via email at feedback(AT)horrornewsradio(DOT)com or find us on Twitter: Doc Rotten | Dave Dreher | The Black Saint | Thomas Mariani. Also, like us on Facebook and join the Horror News Radio Facebook Group.
Horror News Radio
Episode 225 – Killing Ground (2017) – Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planet (2017)
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"OOH! HEE! HAA! EEEEH!" Amilyn (Paul Reubens) has some pretty elongated death rows. All thanks to the titular vampire killer Buffy The Vampire Slayer (Kristy Swanson), who has to stake vamps ON A SCHOOL NIGHT?! Yes, instead of attending the senior dance, Buffy must contend with the dark forces of blood sucking evil. With the help of Merrick (Donald Sutherland), a Watcher who is sent to help train the young girl in the ways of destroying evil. Said evil includes Amilyn's master Lothos (Rutger Hauer), a vampire out to destroy all Slayers. How can young Buffy juggle her new responsibilities and still have time to be with the young hunk Pike (Luke Perry)? Decades of Horror is here to fill you in!
Decades of Horror 1990s
Episode 20 – Buffy (1992)
Buffy is a bit of a sore spot for writer Joss Whedon. After getting his start writing sitcoms, Whedon's script about a high school cheerleader fighting vampires was picked up by 20th Century Fox. Unfortunately, he was not a fan of the final result. Claiming it took his dark script and turned it into too fluffy a comedy, Whedon went on to turn sequelize his script into a TV show that started in 1997. That show became a massive cult success, creating the cult fame that would lead to Whedon getting gigs making Avengers movies. Yet, seeds of that style are sewed into the fabric of this early work. For example, the valley girl talk would segue into Buffy Speak, the awkward vernacular everyone in Whedon's writing talks in.
Here to talk all things Buffy in their own vernacular are Thomas and his own Scooby Gang Jordan Cobb and Caitlin Turner. All being fans of the TV show, rewatching the movie is a bit rough. There are questions about many changes. Why is Buffy's mom so distant? What is up with the lazy wardrobe? Did Donald Sutherland give a single damn about anything? Still, there's plenty of things to praise, mainly surprising turns from Kristy Swanson & Luke Perry and the comedic highlights of Paul Reubens and Stephen Root. Of course, the show and its spin off Angel are also discussed in detail as the three mention their favorite episodes, biggest tear jerking moments and reasonings why Joss Whedon is so damned beloved as a creator. Don't worry. They get back to the movie... eventually.
We want to hear from you – the coolest, most gruesome fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1990s podcast hosts at thomasmariani@decadesofhorror.com or tweet Thomas @NotTheWhosTommy. Also, make sure to give us some love via iTunes reviews and ratings. Helps us get more notice along the way.
The intro and outro is “Suck City” by Black Math. Look for more of their music via Free Music Archive.
The Dark Half (1993)
Once again, Thomas and Doc jump feet first into all the super-hero, sci-fi, and fantasy film - and some TV - news from SDCC. Joining this year is the ever-talented Chad Hunt from Decades of Horror: The Classic Era podcast to discuss all the wonderful nuggets of nutty nonsense from WB/DC, Marvel, and more killer genre-related news from the 2017 edition of the biggest comic convention in the States. DC wows the crowd with a new Justice League trailer and a stellar line-up of upcoming films. Marvel brings down the house with Defenders, Avengers, Black Panther, and Thor Ragnarok. HBO brings a delightful Westworld Season 2 teaser. And Netflix thrills the audience with a sneak peek at Stranger Things 2. All this and more...
As always, the HNR Grue-Crew would love to hear from you, the listeners, the fans. You can always reach out via email at feedback(AT)horrornewsradio(DOT)com or find us on Twitter: Doc Rotten | Dave Dreher | The Black Saint | Thomas Mariani. Also, like us on Facebook and join the Horror News Radio Facebook Group.
Horror News Radio
SDCC 2017 Special Extra Episode
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"I’ve been following you since the glory hole!" No, not that kind of glory hole, though you couldn’t be faulted for going there. You never know what to expect in writer/director Fredric Hobbs’ Godmonster of Indian Flats. For the next few episodes of Decades of Horror 1970s, Doc Rotten is on super, secret, special assignment (actually, it’s not that secret, but it is pretty super-special) putting the finishing touches on the second issue of Gruesome Magazine and getting a good start on Issue #3. By the way, if you haven’t purchased Issue #1 yet, what are you waiting for? In lieu of Doc, The Black Saint and Jeff Mohr are joined by Chad Hunt, co-host of Decades of Horror: The Classic Era and comic book artist/writer extraordinaire, and Bill Mulligan, film director/movie maven extraordinaire and fabricator of the title character of Christopher G. Moore’s award winning short film, Knob Goblins. Yes, it takes two “extraordinaires” to even attempt to make up for Doc!
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 55 – Godmonster of Indian Flats (1973)
Godmonster of Indian Flats is unlike anything this episode’s Grue Crew has ever seen. Bill Mulligan gives a brilliant 90-second synopsis of what the film might be about. Ultimately, the nearly, nonexistent plot is undecipherable with equal parts western, corporate conspiracy, eco-horror, mutant livestock, local legend, archaeological science fiction, creature feature, and landfill apocalypse, with a dash of Valley of the Gwangi thrown in for good measure. Despite the result, Godmonster of Indian Flats is an ambitious effort and may well be exactly as Hobbs intended it to be.
The cast members are fairly inexperienced unknowns with a few exceptions. The Black Saint remembers Christopher Brooks, who plays Barnstable, from The Mack, a 1973 blaxploitation film. Stuart Lancaster, as Mayor Charles Silverdale, was a frequent performer in Russ Meyer films such as Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! (1965) and later had bit parts in two Tim Burton films, Edward Scissorhands (1990) and Batman Returns (1992). The Sheriff of Silverdale is portrayed by Robert Hirschfield, who Jeff remembers for his 94-episode stint on Hill Street Blues (1981-1985). The Godmonster itself is indescribable and must be seen to believe. Starting life as a mutant-hybrid sheep embryo, it is nurtured to its full 8-foot height by Professor Clemons (E. Kerrigan Prescott) in his secret lab with the help of his assistant Mariposa (Karen Ingenthron), who seems to develop a strange relationship with the Godmonster.
Fredric Hobbs has been described as, “a freaky filmmaker who takes the art of bad and cheesy filmmaking beyond this world into another dimension. combining illogical writing, completely random plot development, B-movie horror, and cheese … Hobbs makes some of the most mind warping movies ever in the sense that your mind tries to run away from the black hole that is Fredric Hobbs, in any way possible.” The Grue Crew’s recommendations for this film are as inventive as the film itself but are also given with a strong warning. Watch Godmonster of Indian Flats if you dare!
We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: leave us a message or leave a comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at theblacksaint@decadesofhorror.com or docrotten@decadesofhorror.com.
First up for the Grue-Crew is the unsurprisingly dull and quietly undemanding Wish Upon featuring The Conjuring's Joey King and Ryan Phillippe. The Grue-Crew rave about War for the Planet of the Apes praising the Matt Reeves, Andy Serkis, and the incredible achievements of Weta Digital. Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week with the devastating loss of the legendary George A. Romero and Academy Award winner Martin Landau. Closing out the show Thomas and Santos participate in a battle of wits with this week's Stump the Saint!
As always, the HNR Grue-Crew would love to hear from you, the listeners, the fans. You can always reach out via email at feedback(AT)horrornewsradio(DOT)com or find us on Twitter: Doc Rotten | Dave Dreher | The Black Saint | Thomas Mariani. Also, like us on Facebook and join the Horror News Radio Facebook Group.
Horror News Radio
Episode 224 – Wish Upon (2017) – War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
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