Masters of Horror Review: The Flood (2023) - Starring Nicky Whelan and Casper Van Dien

The Flood attempts to revive the genre of Alligator/Crocodile type films, reminiscent of classics like Lake Placid. The movie follows Sommer (Devanny Pinn) and Clarence (John Garrett Mahlmeister), who seek shelter from Hurricane Clarence in an abandoned building, only to encounter a more perilous threat than the storm itself.

Simultaneously, a group of dangerous criminals, including Big Jim (Eoin O'Brien), Floyd (Mike Ferguson), Jox (Randall J. Bacon), Angelo (Bear Williams), and Russel Cody (Casper Van Dien), seeks refuge in a small town jail, overseen by Sheriff Jo Newman (Nicky Whelan). As the storm floods the town, it also brings a horde of ravenous alligators, turning the situation into a deadly struggle for survival.

The Flood delivers a straightforward creature horror experience, using the familiar alligators as menacing adversaries. Despite the low budget, the film manages to maintain an engaging storyline and runtime of about 88 minutes, keeping audiences entertained.

Acknowledging the budget constraints, the film's CGI and some alligator attack scenes might appear lacking, but the actors, particularly Nicky Whelan as the Sheriff, give commendable performances.

The Good:

The film effectively utilizes the alligators as recognizable and threatening creatures, providing the expected horror experience. A simple and easy-to-follow story keeps the audience engaged. Despite limitations, the actors perform well, and Nicky Whelan stands out as the Sheriff.

The Bad:

The low budget hampers the visual quality, particularly in the alligator attack scenes. Overall, The Flood fulfills its promise of being a creature horror film centered on alligators, even with its budgetary limitations. While some aspects may not be top-notch, the film delivers on its intended thrills.

Considering the constraints, I would rate The Flood a generous 7/10. It provides an entertaining watch, especially for fans of creature horror, despite its shortcomings."

Review by Jon Donnis

Out on Apple TV at https://apple.co/43ylJCO and Amazon at https://amzn.to/44pZgt0

Masters Of Horror Review: Fear the Invisible Man (2023) - Starring Mike Beckingham

Upon hearing about yet another film adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic novel "The Invisible Man," I felt a bit hesitant, given the countless previous versions. However, to my surprise, this film takes a smart approach by returning to the novel's original Victorian era, avoiding any unnecessary modern reinterpretations.

The movie opens with a gripping scene in which Griffin (portrayed by Mike Beckingham) races against time to complete his experiment while facing eviction from his landlord. Injecting himself with an experimental substance, he vanishes, leaving his flesh and bones behind in a visually impressive sequence. From this point on, the story unfolds as Adeline (played by Mhairi Calvey), struggling to maintain her husband's manor after his death, comes across the shocking truth of Griffin's invisibility.

Despite being a low-budget film, the special effects during Griffin's transformation are remarkably well-done, becoming the highlight of the movie. The story, although over a century old, remains captivating, focusing not only on the familiar premise of a man going insane due to invisibility but also on Adeline's character and her journey through the unfolding horrors.

The film does take some liberties with the original story, such as changing the character of Kemp to Adeline Kemp, which introduces a love interest angle. However, these changes do not detract from the overall enjoyment.

Due to budget constraints, many of the scenes with Griffin are set in the dark to hide potential visual imperfections, but this minor issue does not hinder the film's impact. Mhairi Calvey's strong performance holds the movie together, and Mike Beckingham's voice acting complements the film effectively.

The Good:

A refreshing and well-executed retelling of "The Invisible Man" set in Victorian England.

A gradual buildup from thriller to horror in the final act.

Mhairi Calvey's compelling performance and strong direction make the film engaging.

Despite the limitations, the movie is well-filmed and directed, showcasing the filmmakers' skill.

The Bad:

Some of the CGI effects, particularly the 19th-century London backdrop, could have been improved due to budget constraints.

The film lacks some classic Invisible Man cliches that fans may have expected.

A slight trimming of the runtime, from 95 to 80-85 minutes, would have tightened the pacing.

Overall:

"Fear the Invisible Man" is a commendable adaptation. The attention-grabbing transformation scenes and a well-told story, centered around Adeline's character, make it a movie worth watching. With good acting and direction, the film overcomes its budget limitations and delivers an enjoyable experience. I would rate it a respectable 8/10 and recommend giving it a watch."

Review by Jon Donnis

Out now on digital at https://amzn.to/3CIK4eb and https://apple.co/3NJTA78

Frightfest launches its 6th sinister search for New Blood in 2023

 

FrightFest is back to haunt London's West End cinemas in August, unleashing new nightmares upon horror enthusiasts. As part of its New Blood initiative, the event aims to encourage aspiring writers in the horror genre to participate in the frightful festivities.

Now in its sixth year, New Blood collaborates with Giles Edwards of Queensbury Pictures to discover emerging UK-based writers dedicated to horror and support them in bringing their projects from script to screen. Instead of just seeking ideas, Queensbury Pictures is on the lookout for scripts ready for production. To be considered, applicants must submit a rough draft of the first ten pages of their script.

Eight successful candidates will be shortlisted and given the opportunity to workshop their ideas in a group setting under the guidance of esteemed industry professionals and genre experts. This year's mentors include actor, writer, and director Andy Nyman (known for Ghost Stories), Jennifer Sheridan (director of Rose: A Love Story and Disney+ show Extraordinary), and writer, producer, director, and actor Toby Poser (known for The Deeper You Dig and Where The Devil Roams).

The application process starts on Thursday, 20th July, with potential participants required to submit a 400-word proposal through the dedicated New Blood page on the FrightFest website. If selected, each writer will need to submit the first ten pages of their script idea.

The deadline for applications is Friday, 4th August. Successful applicants will be notified by Monday, 7th August, and will be asked to provide their sample script pages. However, all participants are expected to cover their own travel and accommodation expenses in London.

The New Blood networking and workshop event is scheduled for the morning of Thursday, 24th August, the opening day of this year's festival. It will take place in a Central London venue.

The New Blood initiative has already yielded two successful projects: Broadcast Signal Intrusion, written by Phil Drinkwater and Tim Woodall and directed by Jacob Gentry, premiered to great acclaim at FrightFest 2021. Additionally, The Change, written by Carina Rodney, has been optioned by another renowned UK producer.

Giles Edwards of Queensbury Pictures expressed his pride in being part of the 6th New Blood session, working alongside a remarkable lineup of mentors to inspire and support new genre talents.

Co-director of FrightFest, Greg Day, emphasized the significance and success of the New Blood initiative, which continues to evolve and thrive. He wished the best of luck to the New Blood class of 2023.

FrightFest 2023 will take place from 24th to 28th August at the Cineworld in Leicester Square and The Prince Charles Cinema, promising an unforgettable experience for horror fans and enthusiasts alike.

For more information see www.frightfest.co.uk

COMPETITION: Win Lucky McKee’s 'May' on Blu-ray

Make a date with May – for an unforgettable, uncomfortable, weird and wild experience. Lucky McKee’s wickedly wry body horror featuring outstanding performances, stunning cinematography and a stellar soundtrack,  is back for a new release this July. Second Sight Films has it all sewn up with a brand-new Limited Edition and Standard Edition Blu-ray version, both complete with a fantastic slew of special features.

And to celebrate we have 2 copies on standard Blu-ray to give away.

Synopsis

Meet May Dove Candy, the socially awkward veterinary assistant, who was bullied as a child for her lazy eye and has developed an obsession with perfection. Desperate for connection, May struggles to make friends and is desperately searching for a perfect boyfriend.

Then she meets Adam, the boy with the flawless hands… could he be the one? But the path of love never runs smoothly, especially with May’s inability to connect with people. As her dream of perfection unravels, she becomes increasingly detached from reality and descends into the depths of depravity.

The brand-new Limited Edition is set for release on 24 July and is presented in a stunning box with new artwork by Bella Grace, alongside a 70 page book, with new essays. Both editions come complete with a host of brilliant extras including new audio commentaries and new interviews with the stars, director, composer and editors and much more, see full details below.

Don’t miss May Limited Edition, a devilish delight that’s a cut above the reast.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/44tiyOi

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 31-07-23

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.

August Horror Releases from Reel 2 Reel Films and Yet Another Distribution Company

JOHNNY Z

Experience a rip-roaring, gut-splattering zombie-fest with Johnny Z – the ultimate action-packed horror from award-winning writer-director Jonathan Straiton (Night of Something Strange). This undead, brain-splatting wild-ride walks on to UK digital on 14 August courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

The earth has changed beyond recognition as a violent zombie epidemic has almost completely wiped-out human life as we know it. A half-human, half-zombie creation called Johnny (Michael Merchant – She Kills) has escaped from medical prison and driven by the knowledge that his blood may hold the key to a cure for the zombie outbreak, embarks on a mission to find a scientist capable of developing an antidote.

Johnny’s dangerous journey is driven by a desire for merciless revenge against his nefarious creators. Teaming up with Jonray (Felix Cortes – Plane, Daredevil), a martial arts Grandmaster, and his brother Crisanto (Jason Delgado), they embark on a treacherous violence fuelled-quest.

Join Johnny Z for an explosive blend of martial arts mayhem and zombie-zapping thrills.

On UK digital 14 August 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films - https://apple.co/3XNT8Z4

RAGE

A holiday turns horrifying in Rage, a disturbingly dark and brutal horror from award-winning South African director Jaco Bouwer (Gaia), which lands on UK digital on 7 August courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

When a group of friends embark on their dream coastal break to attend the ultimate rave in an off-grid town, they get a fear-filled awakening as their night of raging becomes their worst nightmare...

As their experiences become weirder and weirder, they release that they’ve been drugged and dragged into a dark, shocking, deadly ritual. The blood-filled, twisted horror has echoes of Midsommar and promises one hell-ride trip to remember.

This gruesome and gritty horror promises to sate cravings for lingering, disconcerting fear.

On UK digital 7 August 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films - https://apple.co/44mn94R

FLESH

Prepare for a pulse-pounding horror experience that promises to crawl under your Flesh. Tense and thrilling, this gripping horror arrives on UK digital on 21 August courtesy of Yet Another Distribution Company.

Unassuming newcomer Charles (Chandler Rylko – The Toy Soldiers) arrives in a small, seemingly ordinary town. Enchanted by Louise, the bar manager portrayed by horror icon Danielle Harris (Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead, Halloween), Charles becomes entangled in a web of deceit. Little does he know that Danielle and her brother Ben (Kevin Fonteyne – Melissa & Joey) are trapped in the grip of a family curse, demanding a night of bloodshed and sacrifice...

With an eerie, unsettling atmosphere, this enthralling horror will get under your skin.

On UK digital 21 August 2023 from Yet Another Distribution Company

BORDERLINE

Natalia Tena (Harry Potter, Game Of Thrones) and Mads Reuther (Into the Darkness, In the Blood) star in Borderline, a dark and menacing thriller set to arrive on UK digital on 28 August 2023, courtesy of Yet Another Distribution Company.

Successful Danish marketing executive Mads (Reuther) has a chance encounter with the enigmatic Joan (Tena) on a trip to London. The two enjoy a whirlwind romance but when Mads returns to his life in Denmark, for Joan, it doesn’t end there...

In this enthralling feature, a thrilling affair turns sinister and as two worlds collide, things quickly unravel into chaos and suspense.

On UK digital 28 August 2023 from Yet Another Distribution Company

COMPETITION: Win The Lair on DVD

Neil Marshall’s ‘The Lair’ starring Charlotte Kirk and Jamie Bamber arrives on Blu-ray, DVD and digital on 17 July

And to celebrate we have 3 copies on DVD to give away.

Synopsis

ACCLAIMED DIRECTOR Neil Marshall (Dog Soldiers, The Descent) returns with The Lair, a lean, mean creature feature, which, according to the director, is inspired by the ‘classic genre movies like Alien, Predator and The Thing’.

This spine-chilling Shudder Original features terrifying monsters, gruesome violence and tougher-than-tough characters. Claustrophobic, fear-fuelled and strikingly shot, this mighty monster-thriller gets its highly anticipated Blu-ray, DVD and digital release on 17 July courtesy of Acorn Media International.

When Lieutenant Kate Sinclair (Charlotte Kirk – The Reckoning, Ocean’s Eight) is shot down over Afghanistan, Sergeant Tom Hook (Jonathan Howard – Thor: The Dark World, World War Z) is sent in to lead a specialised team of SAS troops to find the missing soldier and bring her home.

As Sinclair desperately tries to evade her pursuers, she stumbles across a forsaken military bunker and seeks refuge, but little does she know that this seemingly abandoned base holds a dark secret... a horde of nightmarish creatures known as Ravagers, half-human and half-alien, ravenous for flesh.

Narrowly escaping from the bunker, Sinclair finds safety at a nearby army base led by Major Roy Finch (Jamie Bamber – Marcella, Signora Volpe). But it’s not long before some unexpected and extremely dangerous visitors arrive, eliciting an adrenaline-fueled mighty battle for survival...

Enter The Lair at your own risk in this nightmarish, pulse-pounding and action-packed feature.

Neil Marshall’s ‘The Lair’ starring Charlotte Kirk and Jamie Bamber arrives on Blu-ray, DVD and digital on 17 July

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/44A9Mxn

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs The Lair?

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 24-07-23

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.

TRAILER: Parable - Starring Jane de Wet and Michael Richard

 

Award-winning South African director Beer Adriaanse (Wonderlus, Hotel) joins forces with brother Jaco Adriaanse (Ekstra Medium) to pen an eerie and unsettling horror Parable. This chilling tale delves into the realms of sadistic conversation therapy, spiralling into a horrifying possession tale.

This bone-chilling horror is set for its digital release on 10 July 2023, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

Teenager Esther (Jane de Wet) is sent to a Christian camp after her father discovers her kissing a girl. There, Reverend Day (Michael Richard) attempts extreme rituals to "cure" her. However, his misguided acts unwittingly unleash a dangerous demon inside Esther. This demonic spirit is hellbent on evoking mass suicide and despite the pastor's desperate attempts to contain it, the evil entity has its own sinister agenda. Soon, possessions consume the entire community...

A determined young posse take matters into their own hands to save the girl and their town from this malevolent force. Will good triumph over evil in Parable?

On UK digital 10 July 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films - https://apple.co/3JEa3HS

TRAILER: Skinford: Death Sentence - Starring Joshua Brennan

 

Introducing Skinford: Death Sentence, a tense, blood-filled and high-octane action feature that promises bloody bedlam.

With oodles of gore, plenty of violence and adrenaline-pumping action, this thrilling feature directed by Nik Kacevski is set for its digital release on 24 July 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films.

James ‘Skinny’ Skinford (Joshua Brennan) had a simple plan: steal and flip a mysterious truck to make a quick buck and save his ailing father. However, as fate would have it, things take a horrifying turn and Skinny finds himself in serious trouble... While being forcibly made to dig his own grave, he accidentally stumbles upon the burial ground of a woman who had been buried alive and to his astonishment, she possesses the extraordinary ability to bestow immortality upon others.

Yet, this seemingly miraculous gift comes with a devastating consequence. Being close to her is akin to a death sentence, and Skinny's perception of life will never be the same again...

On UK digital 24 July 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films - https://apple.co/3XAVIl4

COMPETITION: Win Scream VI on 4KUHD

To celebrate the home entertainment release of Scream VI, available to Download & Keep now, at https://apple.co/3oPKGLu, we’re offering you the chance to win a copy on 4KUHD.

Synopsis

Following the latest Ghostface killings, the four survivors leave Woodsboro behind and start a fresh chapter. In Scream VI, Melissa Barrera (“Sam Carpenter”), Jasmin Savoy Brown (“Mindy Meeks-Martin”), Mason Gooding (“Chad Meeks-Martin”), Jenna Ortega (“Tara Carpenter”), Hayden Panettiere (“Kirby Reed”) and Courteney Cox (“Gale Weathers”) return to their roles in the franchise alongside Jack Champion, Henry Czerny, Liana Liberato, Dermot Mulroney, Devyn Nekoda, Tony Revolori, Josh Segarra, and Samara Weaving.

No one is safe and everyone is a suspect in the smash hit thriller from Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group that has earned more than $167 million worldwide. The four survivors from the most recent Woodsboro Ghostface killings have moved to New York City for a fresh start.  Just as they begin to feel a sense of normalcy, they receive that infamous call.  Ghostface is more brutal and relentless than ever and will stop at nothing to hunt them down.

Scream VI is available to Download & Keep now and on DVD, Blu-ray™ & 4K Ultra HD™ from 10th July at https://amzn.to/3CZceBS

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who plays Mindy Meeks-Martin in the Scream VI?

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 17-07-23

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 Skinamarink on DVD

Watch if you dare… Skinamarink is coming to get you on Blu-ray, DVD and digital this summer.

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and 2 copies on DVD to give away.

Synopsis:

This Shudder Original from writer-director Kyle Edward Ball – in his feature debut – has been striking fear into the hearts of horror fans and critics galore with its scare-inducing style that creeps up and hits you when you least expect it. Now this acclaimed chiller is set to bring the terror once more with Acorn Media’s home entertainment release on 3 July 2023.

When two siblings wake up in the middle of the night, their father is nowhere to be found and the windows and doors in their home have vanished...

Fuelled by fear and anxiety, the pair take matters into their own hands... With pillows and blankets in hand, they build a den in the living room and watch old videotapes of their favourite cartoons to distract from the scary situation, as they hope and pray that a grown-up will come and save them.

But it soon becomes clear that there’s something else there... something beyond their wildest imagination is watching over them. What is it, what does it want and can they survive this unimaginable nightmare?

Beware the things that go bump in the night, it’s not what you think, it’s Skinamarink, a wickedly creepy scare fest.

Pre-Order from Amazon at https://amzn.to/3NpkLms

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 10-07-23
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.