NYX UK Celebrates Horror Legends and Premieres Spine-Chilling Films This April

 

Horror channel NYX UK is set to celebrate the birthdays of two legendary figures in the genre while delivering a thrilling slate of premieres throughout April.

The month kicks off with a tribute to the master of silent horror, Lon Chaney, on Tuesday 1 April. Known as the "Man of a Thousand Faces," Chaney brought unforgettable characters to life through his groundbreaking use of makeup and physical performance. To honour his legacy, NYX UK will screen The Unknown (1927) at 9pm, followed by The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1923) at 10.15pm. Both films showcase his ability to transform into tragic yet haunting figures, making them the perfect way to celebrate his contribution to the genre.

THE UNKNOWN

On Thursday 3 April, NYX UK shifts focus to the world of Italian horror, paying tribute to Lamberto Bava with a double bill of his most iconic films. Demons (9pm) and Demons 2 (11pm) deliver a night of gore-soaked, neon-lit chaos. Produced by horror maestro Dario Argento, these films remain some of the most stylish and intense examples of 80s horror, blending supernatural terror with relentless energy.

Horror series Dark Rewind continues its popular run at 9pm, offering deep dives into cult classics. On 8 April, host August Kyss revisits the bizarre 1980 horror-comedy Motel Hell, a twisted take on the slasher genre with a darkly comedic edge. Later in the month, on 22 April, The House on Sorority Row (1983) takes centre stage, bringing a mix of sorority drama, deadly secrets, and classic 80s slasher thrills.

FROSTBITE

Another fan-favourite series, Galveston’s Cavern of Creeps, remains a must-watch on Thursday nights at 9pm. This month, underworld exile Galveston and his hapless mortal roommate Jack guide viewers through two channel premieres. On 4 April, Jacques Tourneur’s supernatural horror classic Night of the Demon (1957) takes over the screen, followed on 18 April by The Brain That Wouldn’t Die (1962), a cult sci-fi horror about a scientist’s gruesome experiment gone wrong.

April also brings two more channel premieres. Anders Banke’s acclaimed vampire horror Frostbite (2006) arrives on Thursday 10 April at 9pm, offering a chilling take on the undead set against a frozen Scandinavian backdrop. Meanwhile, Hansel & Gretel Get Baked (2013) delivers a darkly comedic reimagining of the classic fairy tale, blending horror with stoner comedy on Sunday 20 April at 9pm.

DEMONS 2

For those seeking more blood-curdling delights, NYX UK has packed the schedule with some of horror’s most distinctive films. Discopath (11 April) brings a Canadian slasher twist to disco-era terror, while Scottish werewolf thriller Wild Country (17 April), starring Peter Capaldi and Martin Compston, offers a homegrown dose of supernatural horror. Israel’s first slasher film Rabies (24 April) adds international flair, and psychological horror Grimm Love (25 April), based on the infamous Armin Meiwes cannibal case, delivers unsettling true-crime-inspired chills. The month concludes in style with Dario Argento’s Giallo masterpiece Tenebrae on Sunday 26 April, a must-see for fans of stylish and brutal murder mysteries.

With a lineup celebrating horror icons, cult classics, and new discoveries, NYX UK ensures that April is packed with frights for every kind of horror fan.

Freeview 271 / Channelbox App / TCL TVs / Distro TV

PREVIEW: Revelations (2025 Film) A Haunting Thriller of Faith and Obsession

 

Director Yeon Sang-ho, known for his deep explorations of human nature, reunites with writer Choi Gyu-seok for Revelations, a gripping new thriller arriving on Netflix on March 21. Following their success with Hellbound, the duo now delves into faith, guilt, and obsession in a tense, psychological drama. Adding further prestige, acclaimed filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón (Roma, Gravity) serves as executive producer, bringing his cinematic expertise to the project.

The story follows Pastor Min-chan (Ryu Jun-yeol), who becomes convinced he has received a divine message identifying an ex-convict, Kwon Yang-rae (Shin Min-jae), as the culprit behind a churchgoer's disappearance. Certain he is carrying out God's will, Min-chan relentlessly hunts Yang-rae, while detective Yeon-hui (Shin Hyun-been) investigates the case, tormented by visions of her late sister. As their paths intertwine, the pursuit of truth descends into a harrowing struggle between faith and reason.

The teaser trailer sets an ominous tone, blending psychological horror with an intense game of cat and mouse. The official poster heightens the intrigue, depicting the three leads scattered in a rain-soaked forest, each looking in a different direction as an eerie presence lurks in the shadows. The imagery hints at the moral ambiguity and difficult choices that will define the story.

With a stellar cast and Yeon's signature storytelling, Revelations promises to be a thought-provoking thriller that lingers long after the credits roll. This is one to watch.

COMPETITION: Win David Cronenberg's The Brood on Blu-ray

Second Sight Films’ newest releaseof David Cronenberg's The Brood is coming to Limited Edition 4K UHD and Standard Blu-ray from March 31st

And to celebrate we have a copy on Blu-ray to give away!

Synopsis:

One of the most introspective and grotesque features from maestro of horror David Cronenberg (Crash, Videodrome, A History of Violence), The Brood finally gets its highly anticipated, newly restored 4K UHD in a Limited Dual Edition Box set this March.

An early masterpiece and a seminal body horror classic, from the celebrated director, it stars outstanding and disturbing performances from screen legend Oliver Reed (Gladiator, The Devils) and Samantha Eggar (The Collector, Dr. Dolittle). The film is still as shocking today as it was on its original release and fans can expect to see it in its full gory glory with Second Sight Films’ fantastic new edition.

Complete with new artwork by Krishna Shenoi and comes packed with a slew of brilliant special features including a new commentary, interviews with cast and crew and an archival interview with director David Cronenberg.

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/4iTgkOY

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Dream The Brood?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 07-04-25

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

REVIEW: Heart Eyes (2025 Film) - Starring Olivia Holt

 

Heart Eyes is a fresh and entertaining blend of romantic comedy and slasher horror, mixing love, laughs, and plenty of blood in a way that works surprisingly well. Directed by Josh Ruben, the film follows Ally (Olivia Holt), who is reeling from a breakup when she crosses paths with Jay (Mason Gooding), a charming jewellery designer. As the "Heart Eyes Killer" stalks Seattle, targeting couples on Valentine's Day, their awkward but endearing romance unfolds against a backdrop of escalating danger and darkly funny moments.

The film thrives on its self-awareness, cleverly playing with rom-com clichés while delivering sharp dialogue and well-timed humour. Gooding and Holt share strong chemistry, making their growing relationship both believable and genuinely amusing. While not every joke lands, the film’s playful nature helps smooth over any misfires. The slasher elements are equally well-executed, with inventive and brutal kills keeping the horror side engaging. The tension builds nicely, especially as the story hurtles towards its final, blood-soaked showdown.

That said, Heart Eyes does stumble when it comes to its plot, which at times feels unnecessarily convoluted. Its frequent winks to the audience occasionally undercut the suspense, making it harder to take the horror seriously. Some plot developments stretch logic a little too far, though the film’s stylish execution and strong set pieces help compensate for these weaker moments.

In the end, Heart Eyes is a fun, quirky rom-com slasher that delivers plenty of entertainment despite its flaws. The engaging performances, witty banter, and satisfyingly gory thrills make it a solid addition to the growing genre of horror-infused romantic comedies. It may not be perfect, but it knows exactly what it is and fully embraces the ride, ensuring audiences will be laughing and cringing in equal measure.

Rating: 7.5/10

Out now on Digital at https://apple.co/432u8BX

REVIEW: The Gorge (2025 Film) - Starring Miles Teller & Anya Taylor-Joy

 

Scott Derrickson’s The Gorge is an ambitious mix of sci-fi, horror, action, and romance, driven by the strong chemistry between Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy. While its central mystery keeps things intriguing, the heart of the film lies in the evolving relationship between its two leads, making for a gripping experience once it gets going.

The story follows Levi and Drasa, two elite snipers stationed in opposing guard towers, tasked with ensuring that the horrors lurking within a vast, classified gorge never escape. Isolated from the world and each other, they form an unlikely bond through written messages and quiet acts of defiance against their bleak circumstances. As their connection deepens, the terrifying reality of what lies below forces them into a desperate fight for survival.

Teller and Taylor-Joy deliver standout performances, turning what could have been a straightforward action-horror film into something far more emotional. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their relationship the driving force of the film. Derrickson balances high-intensity action with quieter, intimate moments, creating a blend of spectacle and heartfelt drama. Once the second act begins, the tension ramps up, delivering thrilling sequences and high-stakes confrontations.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The first act drags, delaying the real story by nearly half an hour. A tighter edit could have improved the pacing, as the film risks feeling longer than necessary at just over two hours. Fortunately, the stronger second half makes up for the sluggish opening.

Ultimately, The Gorge succeeds as a sci-fi thriller with a surprisingly strong emotional core. While the horror elements take a backseat to the romance, the central relationship is compelling enough to carry the film. If you can push through the slow start, you’ll be rewarded with a thrilling and heartfelt experience. A solid film that could have been even better with a leaner runtime.

Score: 8/10

Out now on Apple TV at https://apple.co/416tuAM

REVIEW: The Forest (2025) – A Haunting Post-Apocalyptic Thriller

 

The Forest is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that blends survival, mystery and an unexpected emotional depth. Directed by Hendrik Cronje and Mari Molefe van Heerden, the film crafts an intense story set in the eerie isolation of the wilderness. With a strong South African cast and a carefully layered narrative, it offers a fresh take on the post-apocalyptic genre, balancing tension and human connection in equal measure.

The story centres on Heinrich, played by Ruan Wessels, a man who has survived alone for years following a nuclear war that appears to have wiped out humanity. His world shifts when he encounters Em, portrayed by Simone Neethling, a voiceless woman whose presence brings more questions than answers. Em possesses strange abilities that have caught the attention of a ruthless gang led by Samuel, played by Roderick Jaftha. As Heinrich fights to protect her, the two form an unlikely bond, proving that even in a world stripped of everything, trust and companionship can still exist.

The forest itself is more than just a setting – it shapes the film’s tone, alternating between beauty and danger. The dense woodland feels both protective and suffocating, a space where every movement could mean survival or death. The cinematography captures this tension brilliantly, using natural light and shadow to heighten the sense of unease. The soundtrack adds to the atmosphere, moving between haunting and melancholic to swelling with emotion at key moments.

The performances are particularly strong, with Wessels portraying Heinrich’s resilience and quiet desperation convincingly. Neethling impresses despite having no dialogue, using expressive body language and an improvised sign language to communicate. Jaftha adds depth to Samuel, a villain who is more than just a brute force antagonist. Em’s abilities, a result of radiation-based scientific experiments, introduce a fascinating element to the story. The way she can only use them when in contact with the earth adds an intriguing detail, leaving room for potential expansion in a prequel.

If there’s a minor flaw, it’s the lack of explanation around Heinrich’s survival before meeting Em. Given how long he has been alone, his well-kept appearance and physical condition seem slightly unrealistic. However, this is a small distraction in an otherwise well-constructed narrative, and the emotional weight of the story far outweighs such details.

With compelling performances, stunning visuals and an evocative soundtrack, The Forest is a haunting and deeply engaging film. Its themes of survival, connection and the remnants of humanity in a broken world make it a standout in the post-apocalyptic genre. Both thrilling and emotionally resonant, it’s a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.

Score: 9/10

Available now on Prime Video at https://amzn.to/410itB2

Interview with Bobby Gammonster by David Kempf

 

1. Tell us how you became interested in all things horror?

When I was six years old in 1966, I came across a magazine with Frankenstein's Monster on the front. Having not started school yet, I could not read the magazine, but the pictures of all the monsters inside thrilled me and sparked something in me. I later learned that the magazine was Famous Monsters of Filmland, issue 56. Before that, at age four, I got a small tin lithograph haunted house bank with a glow-in-the-dark hand that pulled a coin inside when placed on the front porch step, along with a Munsters paper doll set for Christmas. That started my love of horror.

2. Do you have a favourite horror host you grew up watching?

We did not have a horror-hosted TV show in our area when I was growing up. I did see an article in one of my Famous Monsters magazines about the original "Dr. Paul Bearer," played by Dick Bennick. At the time, I did not realise that he was on TV. I thought since he was in the magazine, he must have been a movie star, and I loved the way he looked. We did have a Shock Theatre TV program with no host, only a static cartoon werewolf peeking around a tree.

3. How did you come up with your stage name and sidekick?

I get this question often. The thing most people don't know, even though I have stated it on my show and in other media, is that Bobby Gammonster is my real legal name. My sidekick, "Boris T. Buzzard," is one of the puppets I used in my home party business, where I performed as a ventriloquist and clown.

4. Did you do any traditional TV, local or otherwise, or have you always been a podcaster/YouTuber?

In my area of the world (in Virginia), the local TV stations were too far to travel to, and I did not know anyone who worked there. I had pretty much put my dreams of being an entertainer on a TV station aside. My wife and I went to a convention in Pennsylvania called Monster Bash, where I met other horror hosts, Penny Dreadful, Garou, and an amateur filmmaker named David "The Rock" Nelson. He was filming other visitors, asking them if they wanted to be in his movie and throwing rubber dinosaurs and spiders at them. The thing was, he seemed to be having fun, and I decided I wanted to have fun as well.

So when I got home, I got out a camera. It was not the best equipment, but at least it was digital and had video capability. I had my name, the clothes I used around Halloween and for performing at parties, and my home, which has ten rooms full of monster, horror, and sci-fi memorabilia. These are artefacts I have been collecting since I was five years old. In 1988, I opened my home to the public as Gargoyle Manor – The Monster Museum. These are the items I use as "props" on the show. So, I had everything I needed to start being a horror host.

Sixteen seasons later, with our 350th episode creeping up on 28 March 2025, I became a horror host on the internet. My wife is a website designer who created my website, where all my episodes and seasons can be seen. While I am mainly on the internet, I have recently, in the last few years, been seen on Public Access TV stations, such as WWON TV Channel 48 in New York and CMN TV 18 in Chicago. I was also inducted into The Official Horror Host Hall of Fame in 2020.

5. What inspires your stories?

I don't write stories as such, but the videos I choose are usually inspired by the artefacts in my museum, such as my Edgar A. Poe books. I look for films that are inspired by Poe and use them. Throughout the year, with special holidays such as Halloween, I try and find videos that have matching themes. For example, for Mother's Day one year, I used a horror film called I Dismember Mama.

6. What are your favourite horror books?

As I have said, I love Edgar A. Poe's works as well as Stephen King.

7. What are your favourite horror movies?

Well, that is kind of like asking a parent which is their favourite child. I love all horror movies, but I will say that Frankenstein with Boris Karloff and Dracula with Bela Lugosi are my top two favourites.

8. What do you think the difference between American horror and British horror is?

In the film genres, I would say the British acting seems better. But the American special effects teams seem to me to be better, depending on the specific film. However, I love horror from all around the world. Every film has its own unique style.

Thank you for this interview, and as always... "Keep Screaming" – your creepy ol' curator, Bobby Gammonster and Boris T. Buzzard, Hosts of Monster Movie Night monstermovienight.com