COMPETITION: Win The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 1 Blu-ray

The Legend of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon carries on in this "epic and entertaining" (Comicbook.com) spin-off from one of television's most legendary franchises. Norman Reedus (The Bikeriders) reprises his role as Daryl Dixon, the tough-as-nails, crossbow-wielding survivor, now taking on a fresh horde of zombies in France.

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on Blu-ray.

Synopsis:

With fresh iterations of fear and a new location, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 1 arrives on Blu-ray, DVD and digital on 30 September 2024, courtesy of Acorn Media International and follows its transmission on Sky. With a second season on the way, now is the perfect time to sink your teeth into this acclaimed series starring Clémence Poésy (Harry Potter, The Tunnel, In Bruges), Adam Nagaitis (Chernobyl, The Terror) and Melissa McBride (The Mist, Dawson’s Creek).                                            

Following his departure from The Commonwealth in The Walking Dead finale, Daryl Dixon washes ashore in France – where the zombie virus originated. Thousands of miles from home, The Undead States of America, he struggles to piece together how and why he got there and embarks on a quest to find his way back.

Alone in a foreign, fiendish landscape and after several run-ins with various militaristic factions and flesh-hungry walkers, Daryl seeks shelter in a convent. There he comes face-to-face with two members of the Union de L’Espoir (Union of Hope) – nun Isabelle (Poésy) and 12-year-old Laurent (Louis Puech Scigliuzzi – Show Me More) – a young boy believed to be the Messiah destined to save humanity.

Daryl agrees to shepherd the child and his caretakers on their pilgrimage to The Nest, the Union’s resistance stronghold in Paris, in return for their help in securing his passage back to America. With the stakes as high as the undead are hungry, will Daryl be able to protect the chosen one, is Laurent really who the Union believe him to be and will he find his way back home?

Hope is worth fighting for in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.

Order from Amazon at https://amzn.to/3XF4miK

COMPETITION CLOSED

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 07-10-24

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.

COMPETITION: Win The Hitcher on Blu-ray

You’ll definitely want to pick up The Hitcher as the seminal eighties’ slasher gets the full Limited Edition overhaul from experts in the field Second Sight Films. They present a brand-new restored 4K version from the original camera negative supervised and approved by director Robert Harmon, that’s set for release on 30 September 2024.

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and a copy on Blu-ray to give away.

Synopsis:

Get ready for a horrifying ride with director Robert Harmon’s and screenwriter Eric Red's killer thriller, starring the late, inimitable Rutger Hauer (Blade Runner, Sin City) as the hitchhiker from hell, in a career-defining villainous role that was described by Empire as ‘The best Hannibal Lector that never was’ who terrorises innocent drivers as they drive along the deserted Midwest highways.

This gruesomely gripping cult favourite starring C. Thomas Howell (The Outsiders, E.T.), Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight, Single White Female) and Jeffrey DeMunn (The Green Mile, The Mist) is set for its highly anticipated Limited Edition Dual 4K UHD and Blu-ray release on 30 September 2024 alongside Standard Editions on 4K UHD and Blu-ray.

The Limited set is presented in a stunning collector’s package with new artwork by Adam Stothard and a 200-page hardback book. All three versions come complete with a truckload of special features including new interviews and a new commentary plus tons of archive material, two short films and much more. Please see full list of special features below.

On a long-distance drive across the deserted Midwest highways, Jim Halsey (C. Thomas Howell) stops for a hitchhiker waiting by the roadside. But his thoughts of helping a human in need are blown wide apart as it soon becomes apparent that John Ryder (Rutger Hauer) is a relentless serial killer. Framed by the cold-blooded murderer for a string of slayings, his only help comes from a caring Truckstop waitress (Jennifer Jason Leigh), as they attempt to flee from both the law and the psychopath.

Hit the road with The Hitcher for a ride from hell wrapped in a box set from heaven.

Order from Amazon at https://amzn.to/47EvByx

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 07-10-24

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.

MOVIE REVIEW: A Quiet Place: Day One (2024 Film) - Starring Lupita Nyong'o

"A Quiet Place: Day One," directed by Michael Sarnoski and based on a story conceived with John Krasinski, is the third installment in the A Quiet Place series. This prequel delves into the early days of the alien invasion and stars Lupita Nyong'o as Samira, a terminally ill woman navigating the chaos of New York City as blind extraterrestrial creatures with a heightened sense of hearing descend upon the city.

The plot centers on Samira, a pessimistic cancer patient living in a hospice just outside New York. Persuaded by her nurse, Reuben, to attend a marionette show in Manhattan, she reluctantly agrees. However, the outing turns disastrous when meteor-like objects crash, unleashing deadly aliens. After being knocked unconscious, Samira awakens in the puppet theater alongside other survivors, including Henri (Djimon Hounsou), a returning character from the franchise. The group must stay silent to avoid the sound-sensitive invaders as the military begins bombing the bridges to contain the creatures.

Tensions within the group rise, particularly after Henri accidentally kills a panicked survivor, underscoring the deadly consequences of breaking the silence. Following a power outage and the fatal activation of an emergency generator, Reuben dies, prompting Sam to escape towards Harlem with her cat, Frodo. The military announces an evacuation from South Street Seaport, but the noise of panicked crowds draws the aliens, resulting in a deadly stampede. Separated from Frodo, Sam meets Eric, an English law student, and the two navigate the dangerous city together, including a tense journey through a flooded subway, where the constant threat of the creatures looms.

Lupita Nyong'o shines as Samira, bringing vulnerability and strength to her role. Despite featuring more dialogue than the previous films, "A Quiet Place: Day One" remains largely non-verbal, relying on silence to build suspense. The first half-hour is particularly gripping, nearly flawless in its execution, setting a tense tone that the film strives to maintain throughout.

Visually, the film impresses with its effects and creature design, staying true to the franchise's high standards. However, the shift towards human drama over sci-fi horror may not sit well with all fans. The focus on personal struggle and survival takes center stage, which may leave viewers wanting more exploration of the alien invasion itself. Nyong’o’s performance stands out, but some supporting characters feel underdeveloped, making it harder to connect with their fates emotionally.

At 99 minutes, the film occasionally drags, suggesting it could have benefited from a tighter 80-minute runtime. While the earlier films thrived on tension and horror, Day One leans more into drama, losing some of the terrifying edge that defined the series.

In the end, A Quiet Place: Day One is a respectable addition to the franchise, bolstered by Nyong'o's compelling performance. While it offers a more character-driven narrative, it lacks the tension and terror of its predecessors. Fans will likely still enjoy it, but it brings little innovation to the series. Overall, I’d give it a solid 7 out of 10.

Out On Digital Now at https://apple.co/4ejwdvW

COMPETITION: Win The Original Monster Mash by Bobby "Boris" Pickett and The Crypt-Kickers

 

(Re) Introducing the iconic “The Original Monster Mash” album, the only studio album by Bobby (Boris) Pickett and The Crypt-Kickers. 

This iconic album has been lovingly remastered and pressed on mesmerizing glow-in-the-dark vinyl for the first time, breathing new life into these spooky classics. 

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on Vinyl

Synopsis:

It was recorded and released in late 1962, following the success of Pickett's “Monster Mash” single. In addition to the hit single, the album features fun spin-off songs of "Monster Mash" as well as humorous horror-themed parodies of contemporary hits and dance trends.

Dive into the spooky devilish delights of classic hits like “Monster Mash” and “Graveyard Shift,” now with enhanced sound quality that will transport you straight to the haunted dance floor.

Perfect for Halloween or any time you’re in the mood for some ghoulishly fang-tastic fun, this album is an essential ‘must-have’ for vinyl collectors and fans of classic horror-themed music and timeless tunes. (Oh, and naturally this HAS to be released on a fiendish Friday 13th…..!)  Muah hahaha HAHHH!… Let the ‘ghoul’ times roll!

TRACK LISTING: SIDE A

1.             “Monster Mash” (Leonard Capizzi, Bobby "Boris" Pickett) 3:11

2.             “Rabian The Fiendage Idol” (Johnny MacRae, Pickett) 2:53

3.             “Blood Bank Blues” (Capizzi, Pickett) 2:46              

4.             “Graveyard Shift” (MacRae, Gary S. "Flip" Paxton, Pickett, Charles Underwood) 2:07

5.             “Skully Gully” (Capizzi, Pickett) 1:59          

6.             “Wolfbane” (MacRae, Pickett) 3:21             

7.             “Monster Minuet” (MacRae, Paxton, Pickett, Gary Owens) 1:51

SIDE B

1.             “Transylvania Twist” (MacRae, Paxton, Pickett) 1:35            

2.             “Sinister Stomp” (Capizzi, Pickett) 2:18    

3.             “Me & My Mummy” (MacRae, Pickett) 2:41

4.             “Monster Motion” (MacRae) 2:32 

5.             “Monster Mash Party” (Paxton) 2:52          

6.             “Irresistible Igor” (Capizzi, Pickett) 2:28    

7.             “Bella's Bash” (MacRae, Pickett) 2:48

8.             “Let's Fly Away” (Paxton, Pickett) 0:45

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3znIm46

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 26-08-24

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.

MOVIE REVIEW: Sting (2024 Film) - Starring Ryan Corr, Alyla Browne and Penelope Mitchell

 

"Sting," the 2024 horror film written and directed by Kiah Roache-Turner, delivers a spine-tingling tale that taps into our innate fear of spiders. The story follows 12-year-old Charlotte, played by Alyla Browne, who discovers a small spider emerging from a mysterious glowing object. As the spider—named Sting—grows rapidly, the film escalates into a suspenseful nightmare, turning Charlotte’s run-down apartment building into a deadly trap.

Browne's portrayal of Charlotte is a highlight, capturing the spirit of a rebellious yet resourceful child caught in a terrifying situation. The strained relationship between Charlotte and her overworked stepfather Ethan, played by Ryan Corr, adds emotional depth, although the family drama sometimes overshadows the core horror elements. Penelope Mitchell as Heather and Noni Hazelhurst as Helga also offer strong performances, grounding the supernatural horror in a relatable family setting.

The visual effects, particularly the design and growth of Sting, are impressive. The transformation of the spider from a tiny creature to a massive predator is handled with meticulous detail, enhancing the film’s creep factor, especially in the early stages when Sting lurks in unexpected places. These moments deliver some of the film's most effective jump scares, guaranteed to unsettle even seasoned horror fans.

However, "Sting" does have its limitations. While it serves as a decent creature feature, it lacks the enduring impact of films like Arachnophobia (1990) or the fun absurdity of Big Ass Spider (2013). The movie occasionally struggles to balance its tone, missing chances to infuse humor into its outlandish premise. An exterminator character, briefly providing comic relief, is underused, and more humor could have enhanced the overall experience.

In conclusion, "Sting" is a solid low-budget horror film, perfect for a Saturday night watch. Though not groundbreaking, it offers enough thrills and spider-induced scares to satisfy creature feature enthusiasts. Despite its flaws, the film delivers a few memorable moments, earning a safe 7 out of 10.

Out Now on Digital

https://apple.co/4dWqigd

MOVIE REVIEW: Imaginary (2024 Film) - Starring DeWanda Wise

 

"Imaginary," directed and produced by Jeff Wadlow and brought to life by the genre experts at Blumhouse, is a chilling exploration of childhood innocence and the dark horrors of repressed memories. Set in a childhood home in Louisiana, the film presents a gripping premise: what if imaginary friends are not just figments of youthful imagination, but sinister entities lurking in the shadows?

DeWanda Wise delivers a standout performance as Jessica, a woman haunted by the resurfacing of an imaginary friend from her past. Pyper Braun also shines as Alice, Jessica's stepdaughter, whose playful interactions with a seemingly innocent stuffed bear take a dark and dangerous turn. Dane DiLiegro adds a layer of menace to the character of Chauncey Bear, a figure who straddles the line between whimsical and malevolent.

As Jessica’s buried memories begin to resurface, the tension builds, driven by cryptic stories from her mysterious elderly neighbor Gloria, portrayed with unsettling realism by Betty Buckley. The film skillfully blends family dynamics, psychological suspense, and supernatural terror to keep viewers on edge.

One of "Imaginary's" greatest strengths is its pacing and character development. Every twist is carefully timed, pulling the audience deeper into the mystery. The effective use of jump scares, paired with a suspenseful score, intensifies the experience, while the creature designs add a layer of palpable dread.

However, the film isn't without its shortcomings. Some plot twists may seem predictable to seasoned viewers, slightly diminishing their impact. Even so, "Imaginary" still manages to deliver a satisfying combination of familiar horror elements and unexpected surprises.

In the end, "Imaginary" stands as a solid supernatural horror film, delivering on its promise of creepy toys, haunted characters, and eerie apparitions. While it may not reinvent the genre, its skillful execution and well-timed scares make it an enjoyable experience for horror fans. Earning a strong 8.5 out of 10, "Imaginary" takes audiences on a suspenseful journey where childhood fears and forgotten memories collide with terrifying consequences.

Out Now on Digital

Apple TV - https://apple.co/4ao8OaF

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Vs13fs

BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT: Goths by David Kempf

 

Our very own David Kempf has a new short story out, and he asked me if I could write the foreword for the book, you can read the foreword I wrote below, and check out his book on Amazon using the following link. https://amzn.to/3XrIQOs

MOVIE REVIEW: Snow Valley (2024) - Starring Barbara Crampton, Cooper van Grootel and Tom Williamson

"Snow Valley," directed by the late Brandon Murphy, is a 2024 psychological thriller that follows a newly engaged couple's terrifying weekend at a luxurious ski lodge. Heath Johnson, played by Cooper van Grootel, and his fiancée Laura, portrayed by Rachel Michiko Whitney, arrive at Heath's family-owned resort for a peaceful getaway. Their plans take a dark turn when Ellen (Barbara Crampton) appears, claiming to work for Heath and live at the lodge. This unsettling encounter marks the start of a harrowing ordeal.

The film's remote, snow-covered lodge setting creates a tense, atmospheric backdrop ideal for a thriller. The early scenes focus on the couple's romantic exchanges and scenic ski footage, which might feel drawn out for those awaiting the suspense. However, once the eerie events begin, the story shifts into a more captivating and chilling narrative.

Barbara Crampton’s portrayal of Ellen is a highlight. Though her screen time is limited, her unsettling presence adds significant depth to the film. The supernatural elements, ghostly apparitions and a mysteriously shifting photograph, offer genuine scares and enhance the film's eerie tone.

However, "Snow Valley" struggles with pacing, especially in the first half-hour, and the characters lack sufficient development, making it harder for viewers to fully engage with their fate. The film teases darker, more sinister mysteries but rushes through its climax, delivering a sudden twist and an abrupt ending that leaves several plot points unresolved.

Despite its flaws, "Snow Valley" provides an enjoyable experience, especially for fans of B-movie horror and psychological thrillers. With its mix of tension, fun moments, and supernatural thrills, it never takes itself too seriously. While not groundbreaking, the film serves as a fitting tribute to Brandon Murphy's creative vision, earning a solid 7 out of 10.

Watch on Apple TV - https://apple.co/4etfYNx

MOVIE REVIEW: Arcadian (2024 Film) - Starring Nicolas Cage

 

"Arcadian," directed by Ben Brewer and starring Nicolas Cage, delivers a gripping mix of action and horror in a post-apocalyptic setting. The story follows Paul (Cage) and his twin sons, Thomas and Joseph, as they navigate a perilous world where terrifying creatures hunt survivors by night.

A standout feature of the film is its emotional authenticity, portraying a family dynamic that feels real amidst the chaos. Cage's performance is restrained yet powerful, portraying a father fiercely determined to protect his children. Jaeden Martell and Maxwell Jenkins also give notable performances as the teenage twins, adding depth to their characters.

The creature design in "Arcadian" is a highlight, presenting audiences with a fresh, terrifying interpretation of post-apocalyptic monsters. These creatures, paired with stunning visuals, create an atmosphere filled with tension and dread throughout the film.

However, despite its strengths in character development and inventive creature design, "Arcadian" falters with pacing and reliance on familiar tropes. Some may find the plot predictable, especially as it falls into a more conventional chase-and-fight structure in later acts.

The film’s heavy use of nighttime scenes also poses a challenge, with some moments becoming visually unclear, which may detract from the viewing experience.

In the end, "Arcadian" is a strong addition to the action-horror genre, offering enough tension and scares to engage viewers. While not without its flaws, the film's standout performances and creative monster design make it a worthwhile watch for fans of post-apocalyptic tales. With its mix of emotional depth and intense scares, "Arcadian" earns a solid 7.5 out of 10.

Out now in cinemas and on digital

Apple TV - https://apple.co/4dt8xFs

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3WrFfRA

NYX UK Unveils Thrilling September 2024 Channel Premieres and Celebrates Dario Argento’s Legacy

 

Horror fans in the UK are in for a treat this September as NYX UK, the dedicated horror channel, announces a spine-chilling lineup of primetime premieres. The highlight of the month is the channel premiere of Larry Fessenden’s critically acclaimed Depraved (2019), which will air on Friday, September 27th, at 9 PM. This modern retelling of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein brings a contemporary, psychological twist to the classic tale, offering viewers a stylish and unsettling experience that reimagines the “Modern Prometheus” for the 21st century.

Depraved 

September’s schedule is packed with a diverse selection of horror gems that showcase the genre’s versatility. Among the most anticipated premieres is Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched (2021), screening on Thursday, September 26th at 9 PM. This comprehensive documentary delves into the evolution of folk horror, tracing its origins from British television in the 1970s to its various interpretations across different cultures, including American, Asian, Australian, and European horror. Directed by Kier-La Janisse, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the cultural and historical context of the genre.

For those fascinated by the behind-the-scenes world of horror, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Shocking Truth (2000) will air on Thursday, September 19th at 9 PM. Directed by David Gregory, this documentary offers an in-depth look at the making of Tobe Hooper’s 1974 classic The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, revealing the challenges, controversies, and enduring impact of the film that redefined horror.

NYX UK continues to deliver fresh scares with the channel premiere of Mercy Black (2019) on Friday, September 20th at 9 PM. Produced by the team behind the Insidious franchise, this film tells the unsettling story of a woman haunted by a sinister figure she believed she had banished in her childhood. With its blend of psychological horror and supernatural elements, Mercy Black promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Fans of horror-comedies will not want to miss She Never Died (2019), airing on Tuesday, September 3rd at 9 PM. This Canadian horror-comedy, directed by Audrey Cummings, serves as a companion piece to the 2015 film He Never Died and offers a fresh take on the concept of immortality with a darkly humorous twist.

Other premieres include All Hallows’ Eve 2 (2015), a gripping anthology of Halloween-themed tales, airing on Thursday, September 12th at 9 PM, and The Chair (2016), a graphic horror film based on the comic book mini-series from Alterna Comics, showing on Tuesday, September 10th at 9 PM. Rounding out the month’s offerings is Blood Covered Chocolate (2022), an homage to Nosferatu directed by Monte Light, airing on Thursday, September 5th at 9 PM.

Blood Covered Chocolate

In addition to these premieres, NYX UK will celebrate the birthday of Italy’s legendary horror filmmaker and the King of giallo, Dario Argento, on September 9th. The channel will honor Argento with a double feature of two of his most iconic films: Phenomena (1985) at 9 PM, followed by Deep Red (1975) at 11 PM. Argento’s unique blend of suspense, vivid imagery, and psychological horror has left an indelible mark on the genre, making this celebration a fitting tribute to his legacy.

In an important announcement, NYX UK has confirmed its move from Freeview 289 to Freeview 271, effective from August 21st. Viewers can continue to enjoy the channel on the new platform, as well as on other listed services. Corrine Furgeson, CEO of NYX Media Corporation, expressed excitement about the move, stating, “This move is part of a plan for bigger and better things ahead, and even more exciting ways for horror fans to watch. Meanwhile, thank you for your support!”

NYX Corporation, based in Canada, is a global media content distribution network that specializes in the horror genre. Since its UK launch in late 2022, the channel has quickly become a favorite among horror enthusiasts for its carefully curated selection of films and TV series. With plans to expand into the US market in 2024, NYX is poised to bring its unique brand of horror to an even wider audience, all while maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible content for free.

This September, NYX UK invites you to tune in and experience the best of horror, from classic thrillers to modern masterpieces, as it continues to push the boundaries of fear and entertainment.