The number one movie in theaters this weekend (August 28, 2016) is DON'T BREATHE, the horror film from director Fede Alverez (Evil Dead). The Grue-crew are on hand to discuss their reaction to the tense thriller from Ghost House Pictures featuring Stephen Lang, Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette and Daniel Zovatto. They dive into the elements that work, the surprises that shock and the zingers that make Thomas question what the hell is wrong with Doc. Ha! Fun times!
Doc steps in to announce the Horror News of the Week discussing a variety of items about the final reveal of the Rings trailer, the tease of Doug Liman direction DC's Dark Universe and the loss of the endlessly talented Gene Wilder, the man who gave us Willy Wonka and Frederick Frankenstein. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year THIS WEEKEND, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to Wreak Havoc Film Festival in Greensboro, North Carolina this late September/early October. Another announcement for the fall is that Horror News Radio will be at Spooky Empire in Orlando, Florida, October 7 - 9, 2016. Oh, boy! Plan your trip now.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 178 – Don't Breathe (2016)
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On a special side note, Don't Breathe is the second film from Fede Alverez covered on Horror News Radio by the Grue-crew. The first one was his first film Evil Dead which we covered on the very first episode of the show. It took 178 episodes to get to his second feature. The film is out now in theaters and the question is "Does it deliver?" The answer is what you are wanting to hear. Doc, Santos and Thomas dive into the film, discussing the acting chops of Stephen Lang, the directing slieght of hand of Fede Alverez and the shocking surprises hiding in the dark, frightening basement. Take a deep breath, here we go!
This week Joseph Perry chimes in from across the globe, South Korea to be exact. Mr. Perry is excited to share his thoughts with the HNR Extra listeners on a number of films he caught at the recent Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival. This week is dives into the highly regarded Polish dybbuk film DEMON from director Marcin Wrona. Get the behind the scenes info on BiFan along with Joseph's review of this terrific film.
Interviewed this week are Clint Carney and Kelton Jones from DRY BLOOD. The film recently has its East Coast premiere at the GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpeper, Va and the duo were on hand to promote their feature film. Doc sits down with Clint and Kelton to discuss what it took to make this incredible look into the fragile mind of Brian Barnes, a recovering drug addict with a fractured mind.
Horror News Radio Extra
Episode 004 – Demon (BiFan 2016) – Interview Clint Carney and Kelton Jones from Dry Blood
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In Demon, a bridegroom struggles with a powerful spirit called a dybbuk trying to take over his mind and body. Of course this all occurs during the wedding ceremony itself. The powerful and well-received film is reviewed by Horror News Radio foreign correspondent Joseph Perry who caught the film at the 2016 Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival.
The writing/directing team of Clint Carney and Kelton Jones sit down with Doc Rotten to discuss their feature film debut Dry Blood. They discuss their roles in the film, both onscreen and behind the camera. The dive into some of the special effects, sound design and cast. Carney and Jones reveal some of the challenges and rewards of writing, producing, directing and starring in their first horror feature film and what it takes to get the film completed and on the road. It's an interview worthy of fans and film makers alike.
The Grue-crew board the horror express known as Train to Busan. The South Korean horror film is an incredible new entry into the zombie sub-genre that gets the HNR gang very excited to discuss how successful it is on this episode. If only Joseph Perry were here. Ha! Also, this episode, Thomas settles in to recap and review the animated extravaganza Kubo and the Two Strings. It's Asian zombies in one film and a Japanese samuri beetle, a Moon King and a wooden monkey on the other. Bizarre!
Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week discussing a variety of news about a Lost Boys TV series on the CW, the reveal of the new Pennywise from Stephen King's It and the announcement of a new Godzilla anime adventure. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpeper, Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016 and to Wreak Havoc Film Festival in Greensboro, North Carolina this late September/early October.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 177 – Train to Busan (2016)
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The trailer for Train to Busan looked to promise an exciting Asian look at zombies as a group of heroes look to escape the apocalypse aboard a bullet train from Seoul to Busan. The film delivers with exciting zombie action with roots in Dawn of the Dead, 28 Days Later and World War Z but something far more unique. As the Black Saint points out, Train to Busan follows the structure of a classic disaster film. Think Poseidon Adventure or Earthquake. On top of that, the film has a heart with its core characters battling emotional and moral dilemmas as well. The film ranks high with the grue-crew.
Thomas Mariani steps in with his review of the animated highlight of the Summer Kubo and the Two Strings. While the film struggles to attract an audience in the theaters over its opening weekend, the reviews are strong for this film from Laika, the animation house behind such films like Coraline, ParaNorman and Boxtrolls. The voice cast includes Art Parkinson, Charlize Theron, Matthew McConaughey, Ralph Fiennes, Rooney Mara and George Takei.
"Carburetors man! That's what life is all about." - The opening lyrics of the song Upholstery from the rock opera Phantom of the Paradise sum it all up nicely. Music is the creative juice of life and sometimes to succeed in the music business you have to deal with shady characters. In the Brian De Palma classic, Winslow (William FInley) strikes a bargain with record label exec Swan (Paul Williams). The film mixes Faust, Phantom of the Opera and The Portrait of Dorian Gray into a lively, horror-tinged manic musical. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 40 – Phantom of the Paradise (1974)
The film we've been talking about for 39 episodes and two years finally makes it to the editing room as Doc and The Black Saint discuss Brian De Palma's Phantom of the Paradise. Joining the crew this week are Thomas Mariani, Horror News Radio co-host, and Christopher G. Moore, award winning director. Surprisingly, not everyone loves this often overlooked film. Shot between Sisters and Carrie, Brian De Palma hones his craft with music, murder and mayhem, never missing the opportunity to pay homage to a classic influence be it Alfred HItchcock or Orson Welles. The cast includes William Finley, Paul Williams, Jessica Harper and Garrit Graham with Williams supplying all the original songs.
Resting in the shadows of the cult phenomenon Rocky Horror Picture Show, De Palma's Phantom of the Paradise offers a craftier, more cinematic alternative to Time Warps and Sweet Transvestites from Transylvania. Paul Williams pulls double duty starring as the film's antagonist Swan and penning a dozen new tunes. All the entries are fantastic from "Goodbye, Eddie, Goodbye" from the Juicy Fruits to "Old Souls" performed by star Jessica Harper to Williams' own - and Black Saint fave - "The Hell of It". If the songs aren't your thing, then there's the acting, action and amazing set design. Just check out Swan's record shaped desk as he auditions new talent. Of course, the star of the film is the Phantom himself, a talented but tragic figure played by Finley. Too tame? Then check out Graham's Beef for silly satiric fun. Listen now to catch the crew's take on the musical event of 1974, Phantom of the Paradise.
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.
Each year the Fantasia International Film Festival descends upon Montreal, Quebec, Canada, providing genre fans with a copious amount of films, feature length and short films alike. This year Gruesome Magazine will be covering a number of the films being presented at the 2016 festival. Tonight, Thomas Mariani joins Doc Rotten to discuss one of those films, the body horror gore-fest from writer/director Danny Perez, ANTIBIRTH.
Interviewed this week is Derek Tatum, the director of Dragon*Con Horror Track. Taking place in Atlanta, Georgia over the holiday weekend of September 2 - 5, 2016, Dragon*Con is one of the largest and longest running conventions on the east coast. The convention which attracts attendance numbers in tens of thousands, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Derek is championing horror at the fantasy and sci-fi heavy convention by leading the horror track more towards film and TV. He joins Doc and Thomas to share what the convention has planned to thrill horror fans this year.
Horror News Radio
Episode 004 – AntiBirth (2016) – Interview Derek Tatum, Dragon*Con Horror Track
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Look out The Brood. Step aside It's Alive. Brundlefly has nothing on Natasha Lyonne as Lou in Danny Perez' phenomenal AntiBirth. The film is seedy, gritty, taking a dark, humorous, gory look into the life of an addict who gets into more trouble than she can handle. She is slipped an experimental drug which affects her in horrific, frightening ways. The ending contains scenes that are difficult to forget. Doc and Thomas dive into a unique offering from this years Fantasia International Film Festival.
Doc and Thomas sit down with Derek Tatum to discuss the upcoming Dragon*Con Horror Track. Derek provides the skinny on the convention and the history of how the horror track finally grew out of a variety of other tracks, eventually bringing in horror movies to accent the literary tone the convention has promoted for 30 years. Derek is striving to elevate the track by bringing in horror film discussions from modern films to influential films from the past decades of horror.
Director Joe (Almost Human) Begos returns with an independent horror opus and love letter to all things David Cronenberg. The film is called The Mind's Eye and the influence of Scanners, Firestarter and their ilk is readily apparent. The Grue-crew dive into their thoughts about the film and their appreciation for the practical special effects. Thomas steps in with a surprise What Have You Been Watching segment topic, Pete's Dragon. A childhood Disney favorite gets a modern upgrade, providing Thomas a rare opportunity to praise a remake.
Dave launches into the Horror News of the Week discussing a variety of news about Brad Pitt and David Fincher dream team on World War Z 2, Darth Vader returns in the latest Rogue One trailer and the loss of Kenny Baker, R2D2 from Star Wars. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpeper, Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016 and to Wreak Havoc Film Festival in Greensboro, North Carolina this late September/early October.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 176 – The Mind's Eye (2016)
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Set in the Nineties, influenced by films from the Eighties the 2016 film The Mind's Eye revisits a familiar premise where psychokinetic powers cause anything from intense nose bleeds to explosive head splatter. The quote on the poster from Film School Rejects says it all, "The best Scanners sequel we never got." The film is passionately directed by Joe Bego and features Graham (Almost Human, Beyond the Gates) Skipper, Lauren Ashley (Jug Face) Carter, John (Darling) Speredakos, Larry Fessenden, Noah (Dead Girl, Some Kind of Hate) Segan and Matt (Contracted) Mercer.
What's this? A Disney film? Yup. Thomas drops in with a review of Pete's Dragon, a remake of the 1977 live-action/animated fondly remembered film. It is not often Thomas has positive things to share about a remake of any sort, but here his is praising much of what is to be found in the David Lowery directed family film. And he also praises Wes Bentley - it may be the sign of the apocalypse.
Each year the Fantasia International Film Festival descends upon Montreal, Quebec, Canada, providing genre fans with a copious amount of films, feature length and short films alike. This year Gruesome Magazine will be covering a number of the films being presented at the 2016 festival. Tonight, Paul Cardullo joins Doc Rotten to discuss one of those films, the Canadian horror masterpiece from director Jeff Maher, BED OF THE DEAD.
Interviewed this week is Nathan Ludwig, the festival director of GenreBlast Film Festival. The festival is held in Culpeper, Virginia from August 19 - 21, 2016. This is the festival's first year. Nathan discusses the birth of the festival, the type of films it attracts and the audience they are looking to support. And he gives a preview of some of the films that will play. Horror News Radio and Gruesome Magazine will be attending the festival to catch the offerings and meet the film makers behind the genre films playing that weekend.
Horror News Radio
Episode 003 – Bed of the Dead (2016) – Interview Nathan Ludwig
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Director Jeff Maher, along with co-writer Cody Calahan, has created a fun, gruesome horror film centering around a killer bed. That's right, a killer bed. Their film, BED OF THE DEAD, is much more than just its gimmick however. The film also weaves in a morality play and teases out its story with a dash of paradoxical time travel. Colin Price plays a copy investigating the deaths of five persons who were killed in a fire within a "sex club." Alysa King, Gwenlyn Cumyn, Dennis Andres and George Krissa play four of the victims of the tragic event. The film reveals their stories, the motivations behind the bed and contains a collection of gory deaths sure to satisfy most horror fans. Doc and Paul recap and review the film viewed in connection with the Fantasia International Film Festival.
Doc sits down with Nathan Ludwig to discuss the first year of the GenreBlast Film Festival. Ludwig and his team are bringing a large collection ( 19 features and 80+ shorts) to the town of Culpeper, Va on August 19 -21, 2016. Nathan discusses their approach to giving their festival a unique tone and atmosphere as they look to present the best genre based films from independent film makers across the globe. The films include many horror films, fantasy adventures and sci-fi marvels. But it also includes comedy, action and animated features as well. The films showing that weekend include (but are not limited to) All Through the House, Capsule, Frankenstein Created Bikers, Mania, Night of Something Strange, Peelers and...Yeti: A Love Story 2 - Life on the Streets. Look for more reviews and interview from the festival as Doc Rotten and Paul Cardullo attend the festival to report back here on HNR Extra and Gruesome Magazine.
"I say we take off and nuke the entire site from orbit. It's the only way to be sure." - Hicks (Michael Biehn) agrees with Ripley (Signourney Weaver) in Aliens as they surviving marines search for the best plan in dealing with the swarming, unstoppable xenomorphs. James Cameron delivers a kick-ass sequel to Ridley Scott's highly successful Alien (1979) in a rare case of where the franchise gets even better the second time around. Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s. To make sure this episode is a super special event, Chris Rotten "Son of Rotten" is joining as a guest host.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 88 – Aliens (1986)
Following the success of Terminator, director James Cameron heads to outer space, pitting a unit of marines against an army of xenomorphs from Alien (1979). His sequel to the Ridley Scott classic is a critical and financial success propelling the director into the spotlight as one of Hollywood's top directors. Back for another face to face with the alien monster is Sigourney Weaver reprising her role as Ellen Ripley, the lone survivor of the Nostromo. Paul Reiser is on board as Carter J. Burke, a representative of the Wayland-Yutani Corporation. Lance Henriksen portrays Bishop an android far different than the "glitchy" Ash (played by Ian Home in Alien). Carrie Henn makes a strong impression as the young "Newt" who has survived the alien attacks on LV-426 for 14 days. The marines consist of Michael Biehn (Hicks), Bill Paxton (Hudson), William Hope (Lt. Gorman), Ricco Ross (Frost), Al Matthews (Apone), Jenette Goldstein (Vasquez), Mark Rolston (Drake) and more.
The cast is incredible with great lines. Who can forget "Get away from her, you bitch!" and "That's it, man. Game over, man. Game over!" But the film also has impressive special effects. Not only are the aliens themselves better portrayed in Aliens but the film also introduces the Alien Queen. The sheer size and stature of the creature is overwhelming and visual treat. The fight between the queen and Ripley (within an exosuit cargo-loader) is one of the most memorable battles in 80's cinema. Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore relive and review the film in all its glory with special guest host Chris Rotten.
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. We also want to be sure to thank Neon Devils for their killer track "Bone Chillin'" which we use for the intro and outro of this show.
This week on HNR, the Grue-crew fan through Amanda Waller's files on "the worst of the worst" with their review of David Ayer's Suicide Squad. The DC Extended Universe delivers its third film which follows the events in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice where many of DC's villains are gathered together to defeat a new threat out to destroy the Earth. Will Smith as Deadshot and Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn lead the cast while Jared Leto's version of The Joker dances around the edges. Award winning director Christopher G. Moore joins the crew to determine why "Gozer" is involved in the film - dwerp!
Doc launches into the Horror News of the Week discussing a variety of news where Breck Eisner may guide Jason's return, Peter Block is reviving Pumpkinhead and Willem Dafoe joins Adam Wingard's Death Note. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpeper, Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016 and to Wreak Havoc Film Festival in Greensboro, North Carolina this late September/early October.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 175 – Suicide Squad (2016)
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DC returns to the big screen with Suicide Squad in another desperate attempt to match Marvel's success with its cinematic universe. The results are decidedly mixed as the film breaks box office records for August (beating Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy) and the cast make up for a super-flawed script. Margot Robbie and Will Smith succeed in making Harley Quinn and Deadshot fun characters to watch while Viola Davis is ice-cold as Amanda Waller, proving her character is the true villain of the film. Jared Leto's controversial interpretation of The Joker, while unique and electric, divides fan opinion of his version of the Crown Prince of Crime. Jai Courtney has fun as Captain Cold while Jay Hernandez nearly steals the film as El Diablo. Oh, and yes, Batman is in the film capturing Deadshot and chasing Joker & Harley during the introduction scenes. Fun, frustrating and flawed, Suicide Squad proves to be a heated discussion for the Grue-crew.
"Nine killed you. Nine shall die. Nine times, nine! Nine killed you! Nine shall die! Nine eternities in DOOM!" - the exposition from Vincent Price in The Abominable Dr. Phibes sets up the revenge plot of the film with usual Price flourish and delivery. Billed as Price's 100th film (it isn't, by the way), Phibes provides Price with another opportunity to create a lasting and frighteningly campy character to be cherished by horror fans for decades. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 39 – The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971)
Vincent Price is one of those iconic actors who helps define the horror genre. His presence, talent and spirit elevate any film in which he appears from House of Wax & The Fly (1957) to the Corman Poe films to Edward Scissorhands. But with The Abominable Dr. Phibes, from director Robert Fuest, he became synonymous with a new (in 1971) horror character, Dr. Anton Phibes. Prices scarred and delusional character is hellbent on revenge on the nine doctors he holds responsible for the death of his beautiful wife, Victoria (Caroline Munro). After his own untimely accident which leaves him deformed - and thought dead by the world - Phibes hatches an elaborate plan to dispatch his targets using the 10 Plagues of Egypt as his M.O. Gruesome, gory and full of high camp, The Abominable Dr. Phibes is a highlight of Price's later career and a milestone horror film. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten, joined once again by Bill Mulligan, dive into the A.I.P. classic.
The Grue-crew explore the film, its impact and some trivia surrounding its production. The discuss how Vincent Price would tease Joseph Cotton by intentionally making funny faces so the actor, uncomfortable in his role, would break up laughing. They reminisce on what the film would be like if Peter Cushing, who was originally offered the Cotton role of Vesalius, would have been like with the two actors facing off. The crew marvel at the Art-deco design and the production work throughout. If you gather that the crew love The Abominable Dr. Phibes from this description, you're not far off. The podcast is an affectionate look back at one of Seventies most iconic early films.
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.
Blumhouse returns to haunt the Black Saint's nightmares again this week with Viral. The Grue-crew dive into this apocalyptic virus-driven horror-fest from Herny Joost andAriel Schulman. A;sp this week, the Grue-crew has two "What Have You Been Watching" segments for your listening pleasure. Ha! First up is a recap and review of the first season of AMC's Preacher. Next up is a review of DC's animated adaptation of Batman: The Killing Joke.
Dave Dreher launches into the Horror News of the Week discussing a variety of news John Carpenter winning a plagiarism lawsuit against Luc Besson, M. Night Shayamalan's new trailer for Split and the passing of the legendary artist Jack Davis. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpepper Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016 and to Wreak Havoc Film Festival in late September/early October.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 174 – Viral (2016) – Preacher Season 1 – Batman: The Killing Joke (2016)
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Blumhouse strikes again with another teen-centric horror tale this time featuring Sofia Black-D-Elia and Analiegh Tipton in the lead roles. Viral is written by Paranormal Activity's Christopher Landon and Barbara Marshal and directed by Herny Joost & Ariel Schulman. The tale follows two sisters fighting to survive when a virus outbreak threatens to end all of humanity. Think more along the lines of 28 Days Later than Dawn of the Dead.
Now that the tenth and final episode of Preacher Season 1 has aired, the Grue-crew take a look back at how successful and divergent the film is compared to the popular and influential graphic novels that inspired the AMC series. Dominic Cooper, Joseph Gilgun as Ruth Negga lead the cast as a small town Preacher with the violent and rocky history faces the implications of being handed the "voice of God" known as Genesis. Of course, his sidekick is a vampire, so he has an ace or two up his sleeve.
One of the more prominent Batman stories throughout his entire history and catalog is Alan Moore & Brian Bolland's Batman: The Killing Joke. Bruce Timm and Brian Azzarello team up with director Sam Liu to bring the controversial dark tale to life with the animated adaptation. But the Grue-crew are surprised to discover a considerable amount of new material thrown in to the mix. And the results do not make them happy...Uh, oh. Look for Kevin Conroy to voice Batman, Mark Hammill to voice The Joker and Tara Strong to voice Batgirl.
Each year the Fantasia International Film Festival descends upon Montreal, Quebec, Canada, providing genre fans with a copious amount of films, feature length and short films alike. This year Gruesome Magazine will be covering a number of the films being presented at the 2016 festival. Tonight, Paul Cardullo joins Doc Rotten to discuss one of those films, the South Korean horror masterpiece from director Na Hong-jin, THE WAILING.
Interviewed this week is up-and-coming horror actor Sammie Cassell also known as Sammie The Comic Book Man. Sammie is the topic of a documentary from director Dan Sellers about how Mr. Cassell uses his love for comics to teach school kids about the wonders of reading and imagination. Sammie is also beginning to appear in horror films shot across North Carolina and is part of the forthcoming second year of the Wreak Havoc Horror Film Festival in Greensboro.
Horror News Radio
Episode 002 – The Wailing (2016) – Interview Sammie Cassell
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Hailing from South Korea, The Wailing from director Na Hong-jin is a genre blending masterpiece of suspense and horror. Doc and Paul review the film which is being shown as part of the Fantasia International Film Festival. The film stars Kwak Do-Won, Hwang Jung-Min and Chun Woo-Hee. The film begins as a police thriller before evolving into a mix between a ghost tale, an exorcism and, for good measure, a zombie yarn. Even at 156 minutes, the film keeps its audience guessing right up to the very end.
Doc sits down with Sammiee Cassell to discuss his adventures in the film world. They discuss how a chance extra role in a zombie film has led to further roles and a growing acting career. They discuss how his love for comic books and teaching kids about reading has lead to a documentary about his approach to education called the Comic Book Man. He also is part of the Wreak Havoc Film Buffs Podcast and is helping launch the Wreak Havoc Horror Film Festival in North Carolina.
"Do you ever fantasize about being killed? Do you ever wonder about all the different ways of dying you know, violently, and wonder, like, what would be the most horrible way to die?" - Trash's quote within Return of the Living Dead sets the tone for the film, exposes what to expect and is the first thing the character does to make Linnea Quigley an instant scream queen. Known for its sense of humor, its many quotable lines and establishing that zombies like to eat "Braiiinnns," Return of the Living Dead is one of the true gems of the decade. Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 87 – Return of the Living Dead (1985)
When first announced, Return of the Living Dead was to be in 3D and directed by Tobe Hooper. Wow! By the time it came out writer Dan (Alien) O'Bannon took the helm and created an instance classic that has yet to be matched. The cast is incredible. Clue Galager, James Karen, Don Calfa and Thom Matthews lead a group of actors that includes John Philbin, Jewel Shepard, Miquel Nunez and Brian Peck among others. It made a star out of Linnea Quigley as Trash. But the film also took its own look at zombies referencing Night of the Living Dead as if it were a thinly veiled documentary, having its zombies be turned by chemicals, establishing they eat brains to make the pain of being dead go away and allowed the ghouls to run, talk and think.
The film also boasts some top notch special effects. The tar man zombie that comes out of the canisters is classic. And the lady torso zombie is incredible to watch, twitching away on the table as she spouts exposition. The tone of the film is lighter providing laughs without getting as jokey as the sequel would attempt. But the tone does not sacrifice the horror allowing the gore to shine through when needed. The blood literally sprays on the walls when the zombies attack. Far different than Dawn of the Dead, Zombie and modern contemporary zombie films, Return of the Living Dead is one of a kind, even the sequels failed to capture what makes this film so special.
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.
On this episode the Grue-crew examine director David F. Sandberg's feature length debut Lights Out. The film, described as Jump Scare: The Movie by Thomas Mariani, is expanded from its short film origins by Eric Heisserer to tell the tale of Diana and Sophie as they haunt the lives of Teresa Palmer and Gabriel Bateman. If the dark is too scary a place to venture, then follow the Grue-crew to the deep reaches of outer space with Justin Lin's Star Trek Beyond. The space opera is perhaps the most "Star Trek" Star Trek film of the recent batch featuring the new versions of Kirk, Spock and Bones.
Dave Dreher launches into the Horror News of the Week discussing a variety of news from SDCC 2016: Kong Skull Island, Ash vs the Evil Dead Season 2 and Blair Witch! Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpepper Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 173 – Lights Out (2016) – Star Trek Beyond (2016)
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Actress Maria Bello hides in the shadows along with her murderous alter ego Diana as her children fight to save her from the demon in the dark. They will never succeed Diana can keep the...lights out! The film makes the most of its jump scare origins to provide a terrific roller coaster Summer horror treat - or at least many of the Grue-crew think so. Teresa Palmer, Gabriel Bateman and Billy Burke also star.
Justin Lin brings a Fast and Furious sensibility to the crew of the Starship Enterprise as James T. Kirk, Spock and Bones head to the fringes of the universe in the latest film to keep Gene Roddenberry's dream alive, Star Trek Beyond. While the film has terrific action and sci-fi imagination it grounds its story by focusing much of the film on the characters that make these films so special. Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Karl Urban, Zoe Saldana, Simon Pegg, John Cho and Anton Yelchin return as Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Uhura, Scotty, Sulu and Chekov. Idris Elba and Sofia Boutella join in on the fun!
Welcome to Horror News Radio Extra, a second HNR podcast each with with festival reviews and convention news. The first episode is our annual recapping of the biggest news from the San Diego International Comic Con held July 21-24, 2016. Originally a comic book convention, the event grew to include and spotlight media from all over. In the past decade or so it has exploded to become THE geek event of the year. The biggest news, trailers and announcement are thrown at the audience and fandom in an overwhelming rate. For those who cannot make it into Hall H, this podcast is for you. Here is our reaction to the news that you've been catching all weekend.
While the Grue-crew will be covering the more horror news on episode 173 of Horror News Radio (which will be out in just a few days), award winning director Christopher G. Moore and artist Chad Hunt join Dave, Doc and Thomas to look at what made a big impression. We take a look at the news from DC's cinematic universe with Wonder Woman and Justice League trailers and with the Marvel cinematic universe with a Doctor Strange trailer and big Guardians of the Galaxy 2 news. We also cover some TV news include American Gods.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher and Thomas Mariani are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week!
Horror News Radio
Episode 172 – Ghostbusters (2016) – Stranger Things (Netflix 2016)
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Marvel and DC battle all weekend to present the biggest news and show the best trailer. Everything is on display from toys to set walk through events to costumes from the films. The film makers, actors and creators own Hall H as they present teases and hints at the year - years! - to come. This year, they dominate as much as they ever have as other genre related material struggled to get noticed. The big winners are Justice League, Wonder Woman and Doctor Strange news while Guardians of the Galaxy 2 held the biggest surprises. Marvel finally revealed who will be playing Carol Danvers, Captain Marvel, and how much of Planet Hulk will make it into the currently filming Thor: Ragnorok. Exciting!
On this episode of Horror News Radio, the Grue Crew try not to cross the streams as they review Ghostbusters (2016). The latest film from director Paul Feig brings back the beloved property in a reboot fashion with females donning the proton packs and jumpsuits this time. Then, they discuss the Stephen King/Steven Spielberg/John Carpenter/Generally 80s Inspired thrills of Netflix's new series Stranger Things. Could it be any better?
This week's Horror News of the Week is present by Dave and discusses new set photos from new Stephen King productions The Dark Tower and It, Ripley finally getting her ending and the scariest cinematic creature known to man... TYLER PERRY'S MADEA! Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpepper Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher, Thomas Mariani and Vixen, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 172 – Ghostbusters (2016) – Stranger Things (Netflix 2016)
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Ghostbusters has had a tough road paved for itself in the last few months. Terrible trailers, internet commenters and the pressure of revisiting a classic have all the benchmarks of something worrisome. But The Grue Crew still rages on as they talk about the comedy, the cast and the spooky effects work on the ghosts? Did "Bustin Make Them Feel Good" or was Ghostbusters "Too Hot To Handle and Too Cold To Hold?" The film, directed by Paul Feig, features Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones in the lead roles.
The latest genre entry from Netflix has become a major hit over its initial weekend of release. Winona Ryder and David Harbor lead a group of child actors through an Amblin inspired 8 episode season, full of government conspiracies, time portals and 80s nostalgia. The Grue Crew is at various stages of watching, but there's still plenty to dive into as they discuss the characters, the emotions and the thrills of seeing young kids ride their bikes looking for Stranger Things in the neighborhood. The show is created by Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer.
"For centuries they were hunted for bounty, fun and food... now it's their turn" - the tagline for Day of the Animals only hints at the madness hidden just below the surface of William Girdler's often overlooked Nature Runs Amok classic. The film features Christopher George, Lynda Day George and Richard Jaeckel in lead roles with Leslie Nielsen stealing the film with his terrific supporting performance. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 38 – Day of the Animals (1977)
On a lark, Doc stumbled across Day of the Animals on the Shudder horror movie streaming site. After watching the film from director William Girdler, a quick text to The Black Saint placed the film at the topic of this week's Decades of Horror. The evidence was clear, it was time to discuss this late entry into the Nature Runs Amok craze of the Seventies with its large cast of characters, bizarre kills, a PSA approach to the depletion of the ozone layer and Leslie Nielsen. The Black Saint instantly agreed and episode 38 was in the can just like that.
As a huge fan of William Girdler, proclaiming The Manitou as his favorite horror film, The Black Saint has a lot to say about Day of the Animals. The film is nested between Grizzly and The Manitou in Girdler's filmography. Often mistaken as a sequel to Grizzly, the film stands on its own with great performances, a direct fast-paced plot and heavy use of real animals as the antagonists. That is until Leslie Nielson's character looses his flipping mind. Catch Andrew (The Fury) Stephens and Susan (Jaws) Blacklinie in supporting roles and be amazed at the awesome screen presence of Michael Ansara. Ha! Day of the Animals is a real treat as Doc Rotten and The Black Saint dive into what makes the film so special. This is episode 38!
On this episode of Horror News Radio, Doc Rotten and Thomas Mariani follow Scorpion Joe into Carnage Park. The latest film from director Mickey Keating brings a solid 70's grindhouse flavor and great performances from Ashley Bell, Pat Healy and Alan Ruck. The film is tense with a fast pace and quickly puts Keating on the map as a director to watch. His style and approach is seen throughout the film. And we get another cameo from Larry Fassenden. Could it be any better?
This week's Horror News of the Week is present by Thomas & Doc and discusses Javier Bardem rumored to be cast in Universal's Frankenstein, the teaser for the second season of Ash vs the Evil Dead and Scream Factory releasing the Blu-ray for Exorcist III. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpepper Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher, Thomas Mariani and Vixen, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 171 – Carnage Park (2016)
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"Welcome to Potter's Bluff" - the tagline for Dead and Buried hides the horror behind an innocuous invitation. Once you arrive to this coastal town, the horror soon begins with one of the more underrated horror films from 1981. Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s. Guest-host, The Black Saint (Horror News Radio) joins the crew to discuss Dead and Buried.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 86 – Dead and Buried (1981)
Writers Jeff Millar & Alex Ster and Ronald Shusett & Dan O'Bannon (sort of) team up with director Gary Sherman to give its audience an extended Twilight Zone inspired tale of horror and paranoia. James Farentino is the sheriff of Potter's Bluff who stumbles upon a series of events that unearth Jack Albertson's terrifying hidden agenda. And his wife, Melody Anderson, has secrets of her own. The cast includes Lisa Blount (Prince of Darkness), Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street) & Michael Pataki (Dracula's Dog). The film also includes early special effects from FX guru Stan Winston.
The Black Saint leaps into the forefront as he shares how much Dead and Buried means to him and his experiences first seeing the film in the theaters in 1981. The Grue-crew recap and review the film, diving into the actors, the effects, the story and stories behind the story. Check out the review of Dead and Buried from Thomas, Doc and Christopher along with guest-host The Black Saint.
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.
Leo Barnes (Frank Grillo) and Dante Bishop (Edwin Hodge) are back again to survive another night of murder and mayhem with The Purge: Election Year. This year, Leo must save Senator Charlie Roan (Elizabeth Mitchell) from the killers sent to assassinate her on purge night. Director James DeMonaco proves "three times a charm" with the best Purge film yet. Still, the Black Saint refuses to witness the madness. Dave, Doc and Thomas recap and review the flick enjoying its horror elements and its not-so-subtle political statements. Have you purged?
"If you hide your farts from your friends, what else are you hiding?" There may be no other film like Swiss Army Man featuring Paul Dano and Daniel Radcliffe. Yes, this is the film about a farting corpse. While it may not have much along the lines of horror, it does deliver one of the year's best films with a dark, dark sense of humor and with something to say. If you love Jurassic Park, there are some fun references to the film throughout.
Dave arrives just in time to present this week's Horror News of the Week with information about The Warriors coming to TV, Carrie getting the Scream Factory treatment and the Grue-crew remembering director Robin Hardy who passed away at 86. R.I.P., sir. Not only are the Grue-crew going to Dragon*Con this year, Doc and Gruesome Magazine writer Paul Cardullo are heading to GenreBlast Film Festival in Culpepper Virginia this August 19 - 21, 2016.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher, Thomas Mariani and Vixen, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 170 – The Purge: Election Year (2016) – Swiss Army Man (2016)
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"There's only ONE thing wrong with the Davis baby... IT'S ALIVE" - the tagline for It's Alive is one of the better examples of what a great tagline can do for a film. The film originally released in 1974 to mediocre returns, came back strong with a more focused marketing campaign in 1977 to become a huge hit. The tagline along with a powerful but simple trailer of a baby carriage with the creatures claw sticking out of it drove viewers into the theaters to the tune of $39 million. The Black Saint and Doc Rotten tackle another groovy horror film from the 1970s.
Decades of Horror 1970s
Episode 37 – It's Alive (1974)
The Black Saint shares his reaction to that trailer and how It's Alive affected him upon seeing it in the theaters. He and Doc share their thoughts on the cast (John P. Ryan and Sharon Farrell), the gore (what little there actually is) and the special effects. Yes, the baby creature is designed by the one and only Rick Baker in an early puppet effort. The design is fantastic and the film follows the tried-and-true adage of showing very little of the monster throughout the film. One of the more powerful scenes is the aftermath of the birthing of the Davis baby with carnage and bloodshed splattered about the dead bodies. Great stuff of nightmares.
Of course much of the film's success and tone is due to the unique talent that is writer/director Larry Cohen. It's Alive is his crowning achievement spawning two sequels also written and directed by Cohen. It Lives Again would quickly follow in 1978 and It's Alive III: Island of the Alive would come a decade later in 1987. The film benefits from a terrific performance from John P. Ryan and a quick pace. Doc Rotten and the Black Saint return to the days where a bloodied puppet can give goose pimples more goose pimples as they recap and review It's Alive.
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.
Not many shark films can stand beside Jaws as a great film featuring a killer great white or his finned friends. The Grue-crew wade out to the theaters this weekend to determine if THE SHALLOWS from director Jaume Collet-Serra can claim one of those coveted positions. All indications are that Blake Lively and cinematographer Flavio Martínez Labiano have succeeded where many have failed with a tight taunt thriller.
Thomas chimes in with a thoughtful review of NEON DEMON from acclaimed director Nicolas Winding Refn featuring Elle Fanning as a young model who quickly becomes a threat...and pays the price. Dave takes charge with this latest edition of Horror News of the Weeks featuring tidbits about the trailer for Ouija: Origin of Evil, Universal looking to cast The Rock in The Wolfman and Ghostbusters calls in a retooling of their theme song for this summer's blockbuster remake.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher, Thomas Mariani and Vixen, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 169 – The Shallows (2016) – Neon Demon (2016)
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The Grue-crew gather to take a look at the long delayed US release of the Eli Roth produced flick, CLOWN. The film is from director Jon Watts and features Andy Powers (check out the Gruesome Magazine Interview here), Laura Allan and Peter Stromare. Watts, who also directed Cop Car which Thomas discussed on HNR episode 124, is set to direct Marvel's first foray into Sony's Spider-Man cinematic universe with Spider-Man: Homecoming. The effects are strong, the gore is plentiful and the lore is interesting, providing Watts a great venue to expand his short into a feature length film.
Eli Roth appears in Horror News of the Week as David Dreher reveals Roth's upcoming directorial effort, the remake of Death Wish featuring Bruce Willis. New Line has announced another Conjuring spin off movies featuring The Nun from The Conjuring 2. And the Grue-crew take a look at the career of Anton Yelchin (Star Trek, Fright Night, Green Room) who tragically lost his life this week -far too soon- at the age of 27.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher, Thomas Mariani and Vixen, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 168 – Clown (2016)
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"They will make cemeteries their cathedrals and the cities will be your tombs." - the tagline for Demons only begins to hint at the bizarre story behind Lamberto Bava's creature feature described in another tagline as "an Orgy of Bloodshed." All the characteristics of 80s Italian horror films are here: a cast of unusual characters, a nonsensical plot and graphic, bloody special effects. And that's not the half of it. Thomas Mariani, Doc Rotten and Christopher G. Moore tackle another gruesome horror film from the 1980s. Guest-host, The Black Saint (Horror News Radio) joins the crew to discuss Demons.
Decades of Horror 1980s
Episode 85 – Demons (1985)
During the summer of 1986, the latest horror film from Italian genre favorite Laberto Bava (son of the legendary Mario Bava) made its Stateside debut. Produced and co-written by Dario Argento (Deep Red, Suspiria), Demons would become an 80s horror classic featuring memorable, gory effects (by Sergio Stivaletti) of people transforming into monsters. The talent involved is extraordinary, including Michele Soavi (The Church, Cemetery Man) as assistant director. The film became a huge hit on VHS and produced a series sequels, many of which are in name only capitalizing on the name brand this film became.
In the film, friends Cheryl (Natasha Hovey) and Hannah (Fiore Argento) attend a special advanced screening of a new horror flick. Another patron, Rosemary (Geretta Geretta) cuts herself on a prop mask from the film hanging in the lobby. Before long she transforms into a demon attacking and infecting others now locked inside the theater. Cheryl and Hannah, along with new found friends George (Urbano Barerini) and Ken (Karl Zinny) fight to escape and survive. Check out the review of Demons from Thomas, Doc and Christopher along with guest-host The Black Saint.
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.
For most of the podcast, the Grue-crew - along with guest-host Christopher G. Moore - shares their love for the hit summer horror film of 2106, The Conjuring 2. James Wan returns to the genre to give fans one of the better horror films of past few decades. The film is full of startling images, horrific jumps, nightmarish creatures and brilliant direction. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return as Ed and Lorraine Warren while Madison Wolfe makes an impressive turn as the possessed Janet.
For the What Have You Been Watching segment, things take a 180 turn as Thomas and Doc review the film Warcraft. While the film contains great special effects, the story and the acting are atrocious - some of the worst seen this year. It's a bunch of nonsense and HNR shares their thoughts. Meanwhile, Dave returns with Horror News of the Week and Santos endures a double length edition of Stump the Saint.
Co-hosts Doc Rotten, Santos (The Black Saint) Ellin Jr., Dave Dreher, Thomas Mariani and Vixen, the voice of reason, are back again this week to give you the best in horror as they recap, review and obliterate all that is horror this week! Oh, and don't forget - Stump the Saint! (Brought to you by Gruesome Magazine)
Horror News Radio
Episode 167 – The Conjuring 2 (2016) – Warcraft (2016)
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