Thursday 1 August 2024

Black Chariot: A Dark Journey Into the Haunting Vision of Lawrie Brewster

Black Chariot
 

Hex Studios is set to unleash a chilling new addition to the world of horror with Black Chariot. This supernatural thriller, directed by the master of macabre, Lawrie Brewster (Lord of Tears, The Unkindness of Ravens), draws deep inspiration from the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, blending classic noir aesthetics with the unsettling atmosphere of Val Lewton’s timeless slow-burn horrors. Black Chariot promises to be a haunting homage to an era of cinema that continues to influence filmmakers and captivate audiences.

Nick Ford encounters the Black Chariot
Nick Ford encounters the Black Chariot

Brewster, known for his distinctive blend of gothic horror and psychological intrigue, reveals that this project is a labour of love, deeply rooted in his fascination with Hitchcock's legacy. "My childhood was spent haunted and mesmerized by the romantic and seductive veil Hitchcock cast over me," Brewster shares. "Creating a period film that is both a love letter to that era and a haunting portrayal of horror is a dream come true."

PI Angel played by Nick Ford (Black Chariot)
PI Angel played by Nick Ford (Black Chariot)

Leading the cast is Laurence R. Harvey, famed for his unsettling performances in The Human Centipede series. In Black Chariot, Harvey takes on a complex role, reminiscent of Peter Lorre’s chilling portrayal in Fritz Lang’s M (1931). He embodies a ruthless manipulator who orchestrates a heist involving a red briefcase of mysterious contents. His co-conspirators, portrayed by newcomers Novarro Ramon, Dorian Todd, and Sam Barclay, are drawn into a deadly game that leads them to encounter a spectral figure known only as ‘The Devil,’ played by Richard Pate.

Sam Barclay (L) Megan Tremethick (C) Novarro Ramon (R)
Sam Barclay (L) Megan Tremethick (C) Novarro Ramon (R)

The film’s enigmatic plot thickens with the inclusion of two brutal private detectives, portrayed by Nick Ford and Marco Rinaldi, and a beautiful yet mysterious hostage, played by rising horror star Megan Tremethick. Tremethick, who has been making waves in the horror community, finds a personal connection with Black Chariot, noting its uncanny resonance with the eerie spirit of Carnival of Souls.

The Devil (Richard Pate)
The Devil (Richard Pate) 

Producer Sarah Daly speaks to the innovative spirit driving Hex Studios, expressing a commitment to pushing the boundaries of indie horror. "Our films and storytelling defy trends and pop culture norms. We are unapologetic in our love for past cinema, and we aim to champion and resurrect a style of genre filmmaking that is timeless and will be enjoyed for years to come."

The Devil (Richard Pate)
The Devil (Richard Pate)

An intriguing figure in the cast, Novarro Ramon, who lives his life as the imagined reincarnation of silent film star Ramon Novarro, describes the project as a "spiritual journey through time," merging the enigmatic charm of silent cinema with modern horror elements.

Novarra Ramon (L) Dorian Todd (C) Sam Barclay (R) Megan Tremethick (Far Right)
Novarra Ramon (L) Dorian Todd (C) Sam Barclay (R) Megan Tremethick (Far Right)

As the characters in Black Chariot grapple with supernatural forces, the film promises a gripping descent into darkness. The tension mounts as they try to evade a spectral black Wolseley 15/50, whose red headlights pierce the night, signalling the presence of an eerie, white-clad figure—an embodiment of their worst nightmares.

Laurence R Harvey as Max (Black Chariot)
Laurence R Harvey as Max (Black Chariot)

Shot in striking black and white, Black Chariot marks a new chapter in Hex Studios' oeuvre of retro-inspired horror. Following the success of Amicus Productions’ record-breaking crowdfunding campaign, the team is gearing up for a Kickstarter launch, offering early supporters the chance to secure exclusive Blu-Rays and merchandise.

Megan Tremethick as Nell (Black Chariot)
Megan Tremethick as Nell (Black Chariot)

With its rich homage to classic horror and an uncompromising vision, Black Chariot is set to enthral fans of the genre. As Hex Studios continues to carve out a niche in boutique filmmaking, this latest offering promises to be a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Check out the Kickstarter Campaign at 

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lawriebrewster/black-chariot-by-hex-studios-a-hitchcockian-horror-movie?ref=clipboard-prelaunch