REVIEW: The Boogeyman (2023) Starring Sophie Thatcher

 

"The Boogeyman," directed by Rob Savage and inspired by Stephen King's 1973 short story of the same name, offers a spine-tingling narrative of familial trauma and supernatural horror. While the film may not fully plumb the depths of its source material, it effectively conjures an eerie atmosphere and boasts commendable performances from its ensemble cast.

The story orbits the Harper family, with a particular focus on the two sisters, Sadie (Sophie Thatcher) and Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair), as well as their therapist father, Will (Chris Messina). Grieving the sudden loss of their mother, their world takes a darker turn when a disturbed individual named Lester Billings (David Dastmalchian) enters their lives. This encounter sparks a series of unsettling events as the family finds themselves ensnared in the malevolent clutches of an entity known as "The Boogeyman."

The film adeptly crafts an atmosphere teeming with foreboding. Its visual style is indelible, marked by haunting imagery that lingers long after the credits roll. Notably, the performances of the ensemble cast, including the young talents, significantly enhance the film's impact. Sophie Thatcher as Sadie and Vivien Lyra Blair as Sawyer convincingly convey a blend of vulnerability and determination, anchoring the audience's emotional investment.

Nevertheless, "The Boogeyman" does stumble in certain aspects. While the tension builds expertly, the payoff occasionally falls short. Director Rob Savage occasionally leans on jump scares and an imposing score to deliver frights, occasionally relying on these conventional tactics rather than pushing the boundaries of the genre. The film dances on the line between effectively spooky and veering into familiar horror tropes.

Additionally, the film's potential to delve deeper into the psychological trauma of the characters remains somewhat unexplored. The audience is granted glimpses of the family's emotional turmoil, yet there exists an opportunity for a more profound exploration of grief and its corrosive impact on their relationships.

In the final analysis, "The Boogeyman" stands as a commendable endeavor to translate a classic horror tale onto the silver screen. While it may not fully unlock the potential of its source material, it delivers a satisfactory dose of fright and suspense. With its memorable visuals and committed performances, it promises to make you double-check the shadowy corners of your room. Be prepared for a few heart-pounding moments that might occasionally tread familiar ground.

Among supernatural horror films, "The Boogeyman" rightfully earns its place as an intriguing addition to the genre. With some refinements in its storytelling and a willingness to venture beyond the expected scares, it could have reached greater heights. As it stands, it's a hair-raising journey that will leave you wondering what might have been lurking under your bed all along.

I rate "The Boogeyman" a solid 7/10.

Now streaming on:

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3EiJS6c

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3OTzLK4

REVIEW: Minore (2023) - Directed by Konstantinos Koutsoliotas

 

"Minore," helmed by the renowned director and visual effects virtuoso Konstantinos Koutsoliotas, stands as a true marvel within the realm of horror cinema. Drawing upon his extensive experience from collaborations on iconic films such as "Cabinet of Curiosities," "1917," and "Guardians of The Galaxy," Koutsoliotas masterfully crafts an authentically Greek masterpiece that seamlessly interlaces terror, folklore, and spectacular visual effects into a nightmarish tapestry. This endorsement carries the weight of authenticity, as I am Greek, thus offering a trustworthy perspective.

The film introduces us to sailor William, impeccably portrayed by the talented Davide Tucci, who arrives on the shores of Greece with a mysterious purpose. Amidst the lively tavernas and vibrant locals, he forms a connection with Aliki (Daphne Alexander), a trained dancer reluctantly working as a waitress in the bustling town. Their pursuit of Teacher, whose real name is Nikodimos (Meletis Georgiadis), a master of the bouzouki, becomes entangled with an eerie mist that forebodes the arrival of otherworldly monsters.

As the town descends into chaos, the film's narrative undergoes a transformation, evolving from romantic intrigue and a man's quest for the father he never knew—potentially Teacher—to a harrowing fight for survival. William and Aliki, alongside a diverse group of locals, including the charismatic bar owner Pantelis (Christos Callow), must unite to confront the horrifying creatures emerging from the abyss. What unfolds is an epic battle, drawing in everyone from musicians to tourists, as they rally to preserve their way of life.

The Good:

"Minore" proudly flaunts its undeniable strengths. The horror special effects are nothing short of "magnificently entertaining," effectively capturing the Lovecraftian essence of monstrous entities emerging from the abyss. The recurring motif of tentacles serves as a testament to Koutsoliotas' expertise in crafting eerie visuals that inspire both awe and terror. The creatures, with their unsettling eyes and numerous tentacles, evoke a profound sense of unease, adding an unforgettable layer to the film's atmosphere. This may even make you reconsider ordering calamari in the future.

Each character in the film is given the opportunity to tell their own unique story. Teacher, who sets an empty table for his late wife, and the grandmother character with her nostalgic dreams are just a few examples. Additionally, a scene involving a therapist provides a moment of hilarious horror-comedy.

Furthermore, "Minore" authentically embraces its Greek heritage. The film perfectly encapsulates the essence of a small coastal town, complete with its people, music, and traditions. The bouzouki melodies and rebetiko soundtrack infuse the film with an unmistakable local flavor, immersing the audience in the heart of Greece. As a Greek viewer, this aspect of the film personally transports me back to many memorable nights spent in such places.

In many ways, a significant portion of the film is dedicated to showcasing the lives and culture of the local Greeks. Even without the monsters, the film would stand on its own as an engaging piece of storytelling.

A special acknowledgment is owed to the grandmother character, who delivers an epic performance. Her scene with a therapist is a comedic highlight that had me laughing out loud, showcasing the film's prowess in blending humor with horror.

The Bad:

While "Minore" excels in visual storytelling, there are occasional instances of less-than-ideal CGI. Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings pale in comparison to the film's overall grandeur and narrative mastery.

Overall:

"Minore" stands as a cinematic marvel that effortlessly fuses Greek authenticity, captivating visual effects, and a haunting musical score. Koutsoliotas' skillful direction transports viewers into a realm where the ordinary collides with the extraordinary, resulting in a blood-soaked tapestry of fantasy, folklore, and dark humor. Despite minor CGI imperfections, "Minore" stands tall as a unique and mesmerizing monster movie that pays homage to its heritage while carving its own distinctive niche within the horror genre. With its nightmarish creatures, heroic battles, and echoes of Greek tradition, "Minore" is an experience that should not be overlooked by fans of horror and cinematic artistry alike. Despite my Greek background, I assure you of my impartiality, and I loved it.

I rate "Minore" a highly commendable 9/10.

Stay tuned for release information, coming soon!

REVIEW: Cobweb (2023) - Starring Lizzy Caplan

 

"Cobweb," directed by Samuel Bodin in his directorial debut and written by Chris Thomas Devlin, is a chilling and eerie American horror film from 2023. It explores the unsettling world of a tormented young boy with a standout cast and a captivating plot that seamlessly blends psychological horror and supernatural elements to keep viewers on edge.

Lizzy Caplan delivers a compelling performance as Carol, a mother grappling with her son's disturbing experiences. Antony Starr's portrayal of Mark, the emotionally distant and potentially abusive father, adds depth to the family dynamics. Cleopatra Coleman as Miss Devine and Woody Norman as the tormented young boy Peter round out the cast with exceptional performances that anchor the story in an atmosphere of unease.

The story revolves around Peter, a socially isolated 12-year-old who endures bullying at school and parental neglect at home. Peter's life takes a haunting turn when he becomes entangled with an enigmatic presence named Sarah, who claims to be trapped within the walls of his home. The film skillfully builds tension as the lines blur between Peter's imagination and a sinister reality.

The juxtaposition of Peter's grim reality with mysterious tapping sounds and unsettling occurrences creates a truly creepy atmosphere that permeates every scene. The narrative takes a sinister twist as Peter's interactions with Sarah escalate, revealing a disturbing backstory that implicates his parents in the disappearance of a young girl years ago. The film's pacing is expertly handled, gradually intensifying the dread and horror as Peter's mental state deteriorates.

One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to tap into primal fears—the fear of the unknown, the fragility of familial relationships, and the blurred lines between reality and delusion. As Peter's relationship with Sarah intensifies, Cleopatra Coleman's performance as Miss Devine brings an element of empathy and concern to the story.

"Cobweb" doesn't rely on excessive jump scares or gore; instead, it uses psychological terror to immerse the audience in Peter's unsettling world. The film's climax, set against the backdrop of Halloween Night, delivers a heart-pounding sequence that challenges the audience's perceptions and leaves them with lingering questions.

Samuel Bodin's directorial debut showcases a keen understanding of horror's nuances, effectively using visual and auditory cues to create an unsettling atmosphere. Chris Thomas Devlin's screenplay expertly balances supernatural elements with the psychological turmoil of the characters, resulting in a thought-provoking and genuinely terrifying experience.

The film's runtime of approximately 82 minutes is just right for a horror film, never feeling rushed despite its brevity. It skillfully keeps viewers guessing about the true nature of the parents' roles in the story. The use of darkness in the climax, while understandable due to budget constraints, can be frustrating as it obscures some crucial details.

Woody Norman delivers a standout performance as young Peter, evoking sympathy from viewers without becoming annoying or unlikeable. Although Antony Starr's departure from his familiar Homelander role might initially surprise audiences, he handles his character's complexity well.

In conclusion, "Cobweb" is a gripping and atmospheric horror film that lingers in your mind. With its outstanding cast, intricate plot, and skillful blending of psychological horror and supernatural elements, the film delves into the depths of darkness, both external and within the human psyche. While the use of darkness in the climax may leave some viewers wanting more clarity, it doesn't diminish the overall impact of this suspenseful and tension-filled movie. For horror enthusiasts who prefer a slow build over gratuitous gore and jump scares, "Cobweb" is a must-see. I score "Cobweb" a solid 8.5/10.

Available now on digital platforms, including Apple TV (https://apple.co/3QALH67), and available for pre-order on DVD on Amazon (https://amzn.to/3QDTArg).

NEWS & TRAILER - Final Summer

 

Prepare to embark on a chilling journey to the "Final Summer," a nostalgic nod to '80s summer camp slasher movies. In this blood-soaked and masterfully crafted horror tale, a group of camp counselors find themselves in a deadly struggle against a masked killer. Marking the remarkable directorial debut of John Isberg, who also pens and co-produces the film, "Final Summer" is slated for its digital release in the UK on September 18, 2023, courtesy of Miracle Media Limited.

Transporting us back to 1991, after a season of revelry at Camp Silverlake, the camp organizers brace themselves to close its doors for the last time, making way for property developers.

However, lurking within the shadows is an ominous presence, hell-bent on extracting a blood-drenched revenge from the unsuspecting campers. Who hides behind the mask of menace, and what sinister motives drive their actions?

Prepare for an escalation from warmth to terror in "Final Summer," a cinematic creation that harks back to classic horror styles, generously delivering entertainment through copious amounts of gore, heart-stopping jump scares, and a plethora of chilling murders.

On UK digital 18 September 2023 from Miracle Media Limited

https://apple.co/3KZxYly

NEWS & TRAILER: Another Day To Live Through

 

Experience a chilling and thought-provoking journey unlike any other in the upcoming psychological horror film set for its UK digital release on September 11, 2023, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

Helmed by Peter Simmons in his directorial debut, this mesmerizing British/Finnish thriller delves into a realm of hauntingly exquisite visuals veiled in mystery. Satu (Lene Kqiku – known for Carcera), a Finnish expatriate seeking solace after a devastating loss, returns to her homeland only to cross paths with Lauri (Timo Torikka – recognized from The Winter War), a semi-retired and embittered military contractor.

However, appearances are deceptive as Satu and Lauri find themselves entrapped within an intricate web of unsettling, violent, and perplexing recurring situations, all unfolding within an isolated cabin seemingly without any escape route.

As time warps, reality shatters, and perilous truths come to the forefront, Satu must muster every ounce of strength to shatter the cycle that ensnares her, striving to break free from the relentless waking nightmare...

This ominous and eerily evocative horror guarantees a spellbinding cinematic experience. Prepare to immerse yourself in Another Day To Live Through – a quietly terrifying and disconcerting feature that will haunt your thoughts long after the final credits roll.

On UK digital 11 September 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films

COMPETITION: Win The FrightFest Guide to Mad Doctor Movies on Paperback

Mad medics, sinister surgeons and psychopathic psychiatrists…FrightFest and FAB Press once again join forces to exclusively launch THE FRIGHTFEST GUIDE TO MAD DOCTOR MOVIES, which went on sale during FrightFest 2023.

And to celebrate we have a great competition and a copy of the book on Paperback to give away.

Synopsis

Ever since the dawn of cinema, filmmakers have been depicting on screen the potential outcomes of medical madness and science gone sick. Now join surgeon, author, film critic and not-at-all-mad Doctor (at least according to him) John Llewellyn Probert as he takes a detailed look at the history of one of the most enduring archetypes in cinema, with an introductory overview of the genre followed by reviews of over 200 key mad doctor movies.

In addition to critical appraisal, the author’s own medical background allows him to provide a unique insight into just how well the filmmakers have done their homework. And who better to provide a foreword then notorious director Tom Six, who shocked filmgoers across the globe with his 100% medically accurate Human Centipede, and its sequels.

So, thrill to monsters and mutations, creatures and creations, horror hospitals, isolated mansions and underground laboratories as we enter a world of research gone rogue, of frightening philosophies and dread disease.

Following the success of the previous six editions: The FrightFest Guide to Exploitation Movies, Monster Movies, Ghost Movies, Werewolf Movies, Grindhouse Movies, and Vampire Movies, this is the latest in a series of wide appeal books for both the curious spectator and the cult connoisseur.

The FrightFest exclusive hardcover will be on sale for just £25, and people not attending the festival, which took place Thurs 24 August – Mon 28 August, won’t miss out as they have the option to pre-order the book from www.fabpress.com, pre-ordered books will ship the first week of September.

The Paperback publication date is 24 October 2023.

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 13-09-23

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.

Interview with Boo Rhodes - By David Kempf

When did you first become interested in horror stories and movies?

In the early 70s I would sneak up with my brother and watch Bob Wilkins on Creature Features on KTVU channel 2. I was 6 the first time I watched Night of the Living Dead on Creature Features and loved it. I became a fan of horror movies for a long time after. It was only natural because in the States we really celebrated Halloween back then.

At the time I was reading book like Black Beauty because I was really into horses but I think I started liking fantasy when our teacher read The Hobbit to us when I was 11 and my mom, knowing that I loved the Salem’s Lot mini series, bought me Salem’s Lot the book with pictures from the mini series and after that I was hooked on horror books. I think I was 13 when that happened.


What gave you the idea for your channel and getting on YouTube?

You know, I’m not even sure how I found out about the channel URMAKER, but I was listening to him while getting a story ready to send to a magazine and I realized he had tens of thousands of subscribers and was probably making some decent money. I thought how easy it would be so I turned my stories into videos and then realized how difficult it was to get views. I was totally wrong but I enjoy the process and reading to people.

Not all of the stories I tell are mine, but one day I hope to have more time to put more stories of my own out there.


I love the behind the scenes information. How do you research?

Google is my best friend when it comes to researching. It’s a little scary thinking about what if someone gets a hold of my search history because I search about horror and I’m sure that will scare a few people. Topics like “how long does it take the blood to pool at the lowest point of the body?” or “How long will it take a person to bleed to death with a small cut in a large vein?” or “What plants are illegal to dig up in a certain state?” might raise some eyebrows.

I also ask friends who work in the field I have a question on if I can’t find it on a website or encyclopedia. You try to make it reaslitic and believable but then again, it is fiction and it’s my fantasy world so some procedures or whatnot might be different than reality.

Sometimes, if possible, I will even go to the place I’m taling about or make a posterboard on Pinterest to work it out.


How did you develop an interest in fantasy/horror?

Pretty much the Stephen King book my mom brought home when I was home sick from school one day. I’m not sure she liked it much. She buys my books but doesn’t read them and reminds me of how I wrote that one mainstream story that brought her to tears. Maybe one day, but mainstream just isn’t as fun. Then again, she did take me to see The Omen and Jaws when I was 10. I love my mom!

The other thing is that while I’m not a religious person really. I’d like to be I think, but I have a hard time believing the stories. With that said, I love the stries about the struggle between good and evil, angels and demons, or heaven and hell—and I love these stories mixed with a bit of dystopia. It could be because Mom used to take us to Saturday night church movies. They thought the movies would scare us but they were cool! Oh! Half of the population disappears and suddenly you need to get at tattoo to pay for your groceries and be accounted for or they will decaptiate you? And they showed the decapitation? That didn’t scare many of us, that made us want more horror movies.


Do you have any plans to make films or write fiction yourself?

I write a lot of short stories at this time. I have written a novel that is only about 50,000 words. I’m not sure if I will release it. I would like to write a short story every week for my YouTube channel and build my world of Sandcastle. Sandcastle is the gateway between heaven and hell and sits right in the redwood trees off the Northern California coast. It’s Purgatory for some, a life for demons and angels. It’s every day life for others.

One day I’d also love to write a screenplay but my brain wants to write all of it and describe it into words that normally the director would do, I guess. I just need to figure it out.


Why do you think horror and fantasy books remain so popular?

I think people are looking for an escape to their own reality and horrors. Every day life is also pretty boring when you think about it. You get up in the morning. You go to work or school. You come home. You go to bed. Most of the horror in your life is how to pay the mortgage or taxes. In the past we ran from lions and tigers. We didn’t know where our next meal was coming from whether it be from hunting or putting food on the table. We escaped dictotators and religious fanatics. Life was exciting! Our genes need excitement and we thrive on it so we feed that need with horrors, thrillers, and fantasy.


What inspires you?

Seeing my name somewhere and people telling me how scary a book or scene was for them. More than that, though, is having something to hand down to the kids even if they think I’m a little silly. I want to be successful so they and others can say “she actually did it!” and then tell others how I scared them in this scene or that. For some whacked reason I enjoy other people’s fear. Maybe it’s because I don’t get scared.


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

Besides the use of the letter ‘u’, I feel that British horror deals more with the supernatural and gothic or Victorian type literature and American horror is more centered toward serial killers and gore. British books seem to be more haunting and American authors want to gross you out. But this isn’t the norm or every single author out there. Every author has his or her own style. I personally like a bit of haunting and gore in my reading.


What are your favorite horror books?

I have so many that it is hard to decide, but I do enjoy shorter stories than longer. I used to have all of the Stephen King books in hardback but an old boyfriend gave them to his friends to read and I never saw them again and, even though I immensenly enjoyed them, probably wouldn’t read them again because they’re so long. My favorite books include: IT, Tommyknockers, Ghost Story (Peter Straub), The Changling, Come Closer just to name a few. The books aren’t scary to me though, I find the ideas fascinating.


What are some of your favorite horror movies?

Oooh this another hard question. I have so many favorites, but with that said I have favorites in different generes of horror. My favorite kind are psychological thrillers and on the flip side vampires are wonderful. My favorite is Queen of the Damned simply because of the music of the Lestat character because his hair and dark eyes make me swoon every time but, gosh there are so many for different reasons it is hard to list them all. Here it goes, not necessarily in this order:

The Lost Boys, An American Werewolf in London, Night of the Living Dead, The Omen, Fright Night, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974), Evil Dead (87), and there are so many more. I’m the kind of person who likes more of a plot and then the scare and gore, but I do enjoy ridiculously hilarious scenes like the head blowing up in scanners or that fan coming off of the car and hitting the guy in the convertible at the fast foot line in one of the Final Destination videos.


Do you have any advice for folks who want to create a YouTube channel?

Don’t take it personally if it doesn’t grow quickly. Never do sub for sub for it will ruin your channel in the long run but find people who are interested in your genre. Biggest thing, title your videos appropriately. No one is going to find you by the title of your book or your name unless you are already established. Sadly, the world is now an index and no matter how beautiful your cover is and how clever your title is or how fun your pen name is, they aren’t searching for you, they are searching for your keywords. I know, it’s an ugly way to go about it but it’s what works.


Do you have any advice for new writers or filmmakers?

Never ever quit even if you think your work stinks. Don’t let yourself be the judge. Just start writing and don’t stop, don’t edit, and don’t think about how others will perceive your stories until they’re finished and then find a small group of people who will read your stories and give you honest feedback. Most people who think their work stinks don’t finish what they started and never find out if it does or not.


What is your opinion of the new self-publishing trend?

I love the new self pubishing trend as long as people take care in editing their work. Sadly, the self publishing market has two very distinct stigmas it needs to overcome before people will take it more seriously. One is editing. I’ve read books that had great potential, but the lack of editing pulled me right out of the story. This doesn’t just happen in self-publishing though. I’ve seen it in books that were supposedly edited through publishing houses.

The other is that people think self-publishing is for those who are not good enough for a publisher or turned down by one and this is simply just not true. There are many reasons people don’t go to a publisher. My reason is that I want to keep the rights to my Sandcastle multiverse and I don’t want a publisher to tell me to do something else with it. Perhaps, when I’m ready to write on a different topic, then I’ll decide to try out a publisher.


What are your current projects?

The biggest one is that I just renamed my channel to Splatterday Nightmares and I’m working to get my podcast episodes down to once per week so I can focus more on writing. It needs to be done or I will never get to write as I have another business that takes up 80% of my life.

I also have a couple of secret YouTube channels I’m working on. I know, glutton for punishment!


Please in your own words, write a paragraph about yourself & your work.

Boo Rhodes is a podcaster and an author whose dream is for people to say “you scare the hell out of me!” She has created a multiverse which is one of the portals of Purgatory nestled between between the redwood forest and the rocky beaches of Nothern California. This area, once uninhabitable by man or beast, is now the town of Sandcastle where the crimes of everyday mankind meld with the world of the paranormal. She tells the stories of Sandcastle, along with the works of others, from the lighthouse overlooking Sandcastle Beach through her short stories available on Amazon and her podcast available on YouTube and other popular podcast platforms.

Website: www.scarystorytime.com

Youtube: www.splatterdaynightmares.com

Amazon Author Page:  https://amzn.to/3qJ67zf

'To Fire You Come At Last' from Sean Hogan Premieres at FrightFest 2023 on 26th August

Step back in time to 17th century rural England for a wickedly enthralling folk horror, To Fire You Come At Last, from writer-director Sean Hogan (Little Deaths, The Devil’s Business). This mini feature is an atmospheric homage to the great tradition of British supernatural television from the 1970s and gets its world premiere at FrightFest 2023 on Saturday, 26th August at 6pm.

A group of men have been entrusted to walk a coffin to the local graveyard for burial. However, the path they must tread is no ordinary route... it’s steeped in ancient folklore and superstitions that make many hesitant to walk it after dark.

Convinced to take on the challenging journey, the group – Squire Mallow (Mark Carlisle – The Crown), Ransley (James Swanton – The Thing That Ate the Birds), a drunken peasant, thuggish manservant Pike (Richard Rowden – Survive) and Holt (Harry Roebuck), the best friend of the deceased – set out on their trek.

As they venture forth, their mission turns dark and they find themselves entangled in quarrels, violence and a series of inexplicable and strange occurrences... As darkness surrounds them, disturbing revelations reveal that things are not as they seem. A malevolent force is after them, but its nature and motive remain shrouded in mystery. Will any of them survive the night?

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion on the film and its relationship to the history of folk horror and British genre television, featuring writer/director Sean Hogan and actor James Swanton, as well as renowned horror writers Kim Newman and John Llewellyn Probert.

Eerie, haunting and stunningly shot – To Fire You Come At Last will take you on a journey that you might not be expecting, a must-watch.

To Fire You Come At Last gets its Premiere at FrightFest on 26th August at 6pm

REVIEW: Insidious: The Red Door (2023)

Insidious: The Red Door embarks on a chilling odyssey into the depths of supernatural horror, deftly guided by director Patrick Wilson in his debut at the helm. As the fifth installment in the esteemed Insidious franchise, the film masterfully crafts a sinister narrative of forgotten memories, familial discord, and the malevolent specters lurking within the shadows.

Set nine years subsequent to the events of Insidious: Chapter 2, the story introduces us to a fractured realm where Josh Lambert's haunting history remains concealed within his suppressed recollections. Patrick Wilson's portrayal of Josh navigates a life scarred by divorce, bereavement, and strained relationships. The passing of his mother, Lorraine, marks the commencement of unsettling encounters that plunge into the core of unresolved family dynamics.

The plot gains momentum as Josh's son, Dalton, embodied by Ty Simpkins, unwittingly sketches an ominous depiction of the eponymous red door—a portal to the disquieting realm known as The Further. As spectral phenomena unfurl, the magnitude of the red door's legacy transcends mere superstition. Josh's clash with the vengeful spirit of his estranged father reveals layers of emotional turmoil, melding the supernatural with deeply ingrained familial discord.

In parallel with his father's journey, Dalton's path takes a foreboding twist as he wrestles with his burgeoning ability to astral project. The fusion of contemporary technology, such as YouTube videos expounding astral projection, with the sagacity of Elise Rainier from preceding films ensures a seamless continuity within the franchise. The juxtaposition of a frat party scene—blending the mundane with the paranormal—amplifies tension as Dalton and his friend Chris stumble upon a ghastly presence.

The film thrives on meticulously choreographed sequences that ratchet up suspense, leaving audiences perpetually on edge as maleficent forces tighten their grip on the characters. The return of the red-faced demon, a specter haunting both Josh's past and Dalton's present, serves as a chilling reminder that certain horrors defy the confines of time.

The intricate interplay between Josh, Dalton, and the supernatural culminates in a climactic showdown within The Further. Josh's veiled memories resurface, paralleled by Dalton's escalating astral projection proficiency, as past trauma and paranormal dread coalesce in an exhilarating confrontation. The hellish lair of the red-faced demon serves as a visceral backdrop, heightening the dread enveloping the characters.

Insidious: The Red Door adeptly pays homage to its franchise's legacy while forging a distinctive trajectory. Patrick Wilson's dual role as both director and actor adds nuanced depth to the film's eerie ambiance, while the screenplay by Scott Teems and Leigh Whannell delves into the psychological terrors of suppressed memories and fractured bonds. The film's adept fusion of the mundane with the supernatural underscores the filmmakers' commitment to the genre's evolutionary progression.

Positives:

Outstanding visual effects and makeup design evoke an unsettling unease. The script is well-crafted, buoyed by a compelling performance from Patrick Wilson.

Several well-executed jump scares contribute to the film's tension, adding to its allure.

Negatives:

Occasionally, the film takes itself too seriously, and its PG-13 rating limits the gore that horror enthusiasts might anticipate.

Overall:

Insidious: The Red Door emerges as a commendable addition to the Insidious saga, offering a spine-chilling narrative that lingers long after the final credits. While it may not align with the tastes of more discerning critics, general aficionados of horror will undoubtedly relish it.

While it may lack the gore sought by some, it maintains a sufficiently eerie ambiance to satisfy.

I rate Insidious: The Red Door a respectable 7.5/10.

Now playing in theaters!

In cinemas now!

And also available on Apple TV at https://apple.co/3KvRoOJ and Amazon at https://amzn.to/3OHVaak

REVIEW: Quicksand (2023)

 

Under the direction of Andres Beltran and penned by Matt Pitts, Quicksand immerses viewers in a compelling odyssey through the emotional and physical trials faced by an American couple ensnared in the lush wilderness of Colombia.

At its core, the film revolves around healthcare professionals Sofia (Carolina Gaitan) and Josh (Allan Hawco), a couple grappling with the brink of divorce. This strained relationship forms the backdrop for a gripping narrative of survival and self-discovery. Sofia, a doctor, returns to her homeland after an extended absence to deliver a conference lecture. Accompanied by Josh, who experiences Bogotá for the first time, they leave their children behind in the United States. Will this journey offer them an opportunity to mend their fractured marriage, or will it lead to their literal undoing?

A pivotal twist unfolds during a fateful rainforest hike, where their encounter with a car thief and a subsequent gunpoint confrontation leave them trapped in a pit of quicksand. Their desperate escape attempts lead to immobilization, and in the process, they must grapple with their inner demons while battling the relentless jungle elements. Amidst their struggle, a looming giant snake adds an extra layer of danger to their dire predicament.

Carolina Gaitan and Allan Hawco deliver decent performances, they portray well the complex emotional journey their characters are forced to endure. The chemistry between the two actors is strong, making their struggles and revelations all the more believable. As the plot unfolds, the quicksand becomes a powerful metaphor for the couple's deteriorating relationship, forcing them to confront their grievances and rediscover the value in one another.

Andres Beltran's direction shines as he expertly balances the heart-pounding suspense of the survival aspect with the intimate, character-driven moments of introspection. The lush cinematography captures the beauty and treacherousness of the Colombian wilderness, intensifying the sense of vulnerability felt by the characters.

Throughout the film, a great deal of effort is made to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat, unsure of whether the couple will succumb to the perils of the jungle or find strength in each other to overcome their challenges. This gripping uncertainty adds layers of tension and depth to the plot, keeping the audience engrossed until the final moments.

Quicksand serves as a thought-provoking exploration of marriage, redemption, and the human spirit. It delves into the complexities of relationships and the transformative power of life-threatening situations. The film's powerful message reminds us of the importance of valuing our loved ones and finding strength in unity when confronted with life's most daunting obstacles.

The Good

Despite the low budget, everything looks and feels real and believable. I liked both the performances of Allan Hawco and Carolina Gaitan, and there is a true feeling of peril when they ultimately end up trapped.

The film is a beautiful 80 minutes long, which for a horror/thriller is about the perfect length.

The Bad

Some of the arguments between Sofia and Josh are very cliche. The film is called Quicksand, but it is more mud that they are trapped in.

Overall

Quicksand is a decent horror/thriller film that does a fair job in both its storytelling and performances.

Another decent release from the good people at Shudder, and available now at the following links.

I score Quicksand a fair 7/10

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

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3OhJI3F