LEGEND Channel reveals horror & action premieres for October 2023

 

Watch out for plenty of star-studied thrills and spills on LEGEND, as the UK’s most entertaining channel for action, suspense and Sci-Fi presents eleven premieres for October, including the UK TV premiere of ANTI-LIFE, an edge-of-your-seat sci-fi thriller with an (inter)stellar cast including Bruce Willis and John Suits. There also a welcome channel premiere for THE GUEST, a brilliant homage to 1980s action flicks and slasher horror, which showcases ex- ‘Downtown Abbey’ actor Dan Stevens in an inspired star-making turn.

Other channel firsts include high-octane crime thriller DOG EAT DOG, starring Nicolas Cage and Willem Dafoe, American road comedy film MIDNIGHT RUN, starring Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin, THE QUEST a martial arts thriller directed by Jean-Claude Van Damme in his directorial debut and the controversial drama SLEEPERS, starring Kevin Bacon, Dustin Hoffman, Brad Pitt, Robert DeNiro and  Minnie Driver.

Plus, there’s British mystery thriller UNDER SUSPICION starring Liam Neeson, action adventure THE RIVER WILD, starring Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon and Van Damme and Lundgren return for a sixth instalment of UNIVERSAL SOLDIER: DAY OF RECKONING.

This month’s ever-popular THE VINTAGE VAULT strand on Sunday night double-bills continues its celebration of great horror classics from the Sixties and seventies including DRACULA: PRINCE OF DARKNESS, FRANKENSTEIN CREATED WOMAN, THE DEVIL RIDES OUT, THE SORCERERS, TWINS OF EVIL, SCARS OF DRSCULS and LUST FOR A VAMPIRE.

Full film details in transmission order:

Sun 1 Oct @ 21:00 – THE SORCERERS (1967)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
Scientist (Boris Karloff) and his wife (Catherine Lacey), possess a device that enables them to impose, through telepathy, their fantasies on people and allows them to experience sensations felt by their subjects. They take control of a teenager (Ian Ogilvy) and have him live out what they associate with contemporary youth: violence and sex. This disturbing and powerful psychological horror is the debut feature of cult-director Michael Reeves.

Sun 1 Oct @ 22:45 – DRACULA: PRINCE OF DARKNESS (1966)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
Christopher Lee stars in this chilling tale of four English tourists who become stranded in the Carpathian Mountains. When a driverless coach appears and takes them to a sinister castle, can they survive the night? This sequel to 'Dracula' (1958) is directed by Terence Fisher, with Andrew Keir and Barbara Shelley

Thurs 5 Oct @ 23:15 – UNDER SUSPICION (1991) *Channel Premiere
Tony Aaron (Liam Neeson) is a disgraced ex-policeman scraping a living as a private detective. When a supposedly routine case goes wrong and leads to the murder of a client and Aaron's own wife, he is under suspicion of murder. His enquiries lead him to the murdered client's mistress, the mysterious Angeline (Laura San Giacomo), who stood to benefit heavily.

Sat 7 Oct @ 21:00 – MIDNIGHT RUN (1988) *Channel Premiere
When bounty hunter Jack Walsh (Robert DeNiro) is assigned with finding bail jumper Jon Mardukas (Charles Grodin), he has no idea the Mob and the FBI have the same idea Martin Brest directs this smart and funny ‘Odd Couple’ movie.

Sun 8 Oct @ 21:00 – FRANKENSTEIN CREATED WOMAN (1967)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
Baron Frankenstein (Peter Cushing) assisted by Dr Hertz (Thorley Walters) and Hans Werner (Robert Morris), discovers a way of trapping the soul of a recently deceased person. Frankenstein believes he can transfer that soul into another recently deceased female body to restore it to life. Directed by Terence Fisher, this is It is the fourth film in Hammer's Frankenstein series one of the most critically acclaimed Hammer films.

Sun 8 Oct @ 22:45 – THE WITCHES (1966)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
Following a horrifying experience with the occult in Africa, a schoolteacher (Joan Fontaine) moves to a small English village, only to discover that a mysterious magic resides there as well. Directed by Cyril Frankel and co-starring Alec McCowen this Hammer Films production, was adapted from the 1960 novel The Devil's Own

Thurs 12 Oct @ 21:00 – THE QUEST (1996) *Channel Premiere
Acclaimed action superstar Jean-Claude Van Damme directs and stars as Chris, a street criminal who has always lived his life in search of new adventures. But his skill will be put to the test when he enters a tournament of the world’s best fighters. Van Dammer’s directorial debut also stars Roger Moore.

Sat 14 Oct @ 21:00 – THE RIVER WILD (1994) *Channel Premiere
Meryl Streep delivers a tour de force performance as a wife and mother whose family river rafting trip is hijacked by murderous thieves who desire to use her experience as a river guide to get them through a perilous stretch of water known as the Gauntlet. Directed by Curtis Hanson and co-stars Kevin Bacon as the ruthless criminal who threatens their lives.

Sun 15 Oct @ 21:00 – THE BLOOD BEAST TERROR (1968)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
A 19th-century entomologist's daughter undergoes a metamorphosis into a giant death's head moth which needs human blood to survive. Her father creates a giant moth to keep her company, but only succeeds in unleashing more blood-sucking terror. Meanwhile, a police inspector (played by Peter Cushing) tries to find the key to the series of gruesome murders.

Sun 15 Oct @ 22:45 – THE DEVIL RIDES OUT (1968)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
The powers of good are pitted against the forces of evil as the Duc de Richelieu (Christopher Lee) wrestles with the deadly Satanist, Mocata (Charles Gray) for the soul of his friend, who has become deeply involved in a satanic society run by Mocata. Furthermore, De Richleau's daughter is kidnapped by the cult and put up for sacrifice to the Angel of Death

Tues 17 Oct @ 22:45 – DOG EATS DOG (2016) *Channel Premiere
Based on true events and directed by visionary filmmaker Paul Schrader, this high-octane crime thriller stars Nicolas Cage and Willem Dafoe, who, fresh out of prison, are trying to adapt themselves to civilian life. But then they are offered a job by an eccentric mob boss with a payoff too good to turn down.

Sun 22 Oct @ 21:00 – BLOOD FROM THE MUMMY’S TOMB (1971)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
On an expedition to Egypt, Professor Fuchs (Andrew Keir) discovers the tomb of the beautiful Queen Tera, Queen of Darkness (Valerie Leon), whose power was reputed to stretch beyond the grave. He returns to London, bringing the queen's mummified body and objects with him. Strange things begin to happen as the objects seem to take on a life of their own and strike down anyone who crosses their path. This was director Seth Holt’s final film, and was loosely adapted from Bram Stoker’s 1903 novel The Jewel of Seven Stars

Sun 22 Oct @ 22:55 – LUST FOR A VAMPIRE (1971)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
The enigmatic Carmilla (Yutte Stensgaard) enrols as a student in an exclusive girls' finishing school and proceeds to wreak havoc among pupils and teachers alike. Among those who fall victim to her striking and sensual beauty is the school's new English teacher Giles Barton (Ralph Bates), who at first refuses to credit the ugly rumours about her true vampiristic nature. But, following the death of a colleague he is reluctantly forced to face the truth...

Wed 25 Sept @ 22:50 – ANTI-LIFE (2020) *UK TV Premiere
Set in the near future, a spaceship with survivors flees a devastating plague on planet Earth. But the ship has a stowaway: a shape-shifting alien whose goal is to kill. Clay (Bruce Willis) and his team of mechanics are picked to maintain the interstellar ark but now they must outwrite and destroy a malevolent cosmic terror.

Fri 27 Oct @ 22:50 – UNIVERSAL SOLDIER: REGENERATION (2009) *Channel Premiere
When a terrorist sect uses a new destructive model from the "Universal Soldier" line of humanlike machines, to seize the atomic reactor at Chernobyl, Luc Deveraux (Jean-Claude Van Damme), is reactivated to save the planet from nuclear Armageddon. Unfortunately, Deveraux will also have to contend with his nemesis, Andrew Scott (Dolph Lundgren).

Sat 28 Oct @ 21:00 – SLEEPERS (1996) *Channel Premiere
Our boys from Hell's Kitchen enter a reformatory where a cruel guard (Kevin Bacon) abuses them. Years later, two of them avenge their tormenter and stand trial, defended by a lawyer (Dustin Hoffman) and aided by their scheming cohort (Brad Pitt) and other friends from the 'hood (Robert DeNiro, Minnie Driver), who face the moral dilemma of justice vs. loyalty.

Sun 29 Oct @ 21:00 – TWINS OF EVIL (197)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
After being orphaned, two beautiful identical twins move to the village of Karnstein, where they live with their uncle, a fanatical Puritan (Peter Cushing). Nearby, the Count of the village is performing a sacrificial rite to raise his ancestor, the vampire Countess He turns his attention to the twins. One of them is destined to fall under his spell, but which one? John Hough’s a supernatural vampire thriller is widely recognised as a masterpiece of gothic and erotic horror.

Sun 29 Sept @ 22:45 – SCARS OF DRACULA (1970)
*Part of The Vintage Vault
Count Dracula, (Christopher Lee), once again spreads his evil from his mountaintop castle. When libertine Paul Carlson disappears one night, his brother Simon and his girlfriend trace him to the area and make their way, like Paul before them, towards the sinister castle and its undead host. This sequel to Taste the Blood of Dracula (1968), also stars Dennis Waterman, Jenny Hanley, Patrick Troughton, and Michael Gwynn.

Tues 31 Oct @ 21:00 – THE GUEST (2014) *Channel Premiere
A brilliant homage to 1980s action flicks and slasher horror given a sharp twist by YOU’RE NEXT director Adam Wingard, it showcases ex- ‘Downtown Abbey’ actor Dan Stevens in an inspired star-making turn. He plays David, a soldier arriving on the bereaved Peterson family’s doorstep, claiming to be the best friend of their son who died in action. Inviting him to stay, at first the charming veteran seems the perfect guest, but then the random killing starts. What's going on and can the family stop the cold-blooded lethal weapon in their home committing even worse atrocities?

REVIEW: Elevator Game (2023) - Starring Megan Best and Gino Anania

"Elevator Game," under the direction of Rebekah McKendry, propels audiences into a nerve-racking voyage into the supernatural realm. The film initiates with a gripping sequence, ingeniously employing shots of Becki (Megan Best) maneuvering the elevator's controls and the concealed machinery, establishing an ominous ambiance. As the plot unfurls, a mysterious entity known as The 5th Floor Woman emerges, plunging the story into a chilling realm of horror.

Becki's vanishing act leaves her socially awkward teenage brother, Ryan (Gino Anania), desperately seeking answers. Upon discovering her involvement in 'The Elevator Game' prior to her disappearance, he resolves to retrace her steps and unveil the truth. Ryan intertwines his destiny with a group of YouTubers led by Chloe (Verity Marks), embarking on an exploration of the supernatural. The film delves into the Elevator Game, a ritual attempting to traverse dimensions, adding an intriguing layer to the storyline.

The film excels in portraying The 5th Floor Woman as a formidable horror antagonist, instilling terror in the young adults through creative and gruesome means. The cinematography is praiseworthy, effectively building tension and delivering well-timed jump scares that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

However, "Elevator Game" could have benefited from a more extensive explanation regarding the game itself, its historical context, and the intricacies of the alternate dimension. Additionally, delving into The 5th Floor Woman's motivations and vendetta could have added depth to the narrative.

In summary, "Elevator Game" offers an enjoyable albeit straightforward horror experience, drawing inspiration from the realms of Japanese horror. While the film had the potential to surpass its current standing with a refined script and a reduction of clichés, it remains an engaging horror film with captivating elements that will leave fans of the genre satisfied.

Out now

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3r8ICzX

Apple TV: https://apple.co/45Rz2R5

REVIEW: Talk to Me (2023) - Starring Sophie Wilde and Joe Bird

"Talk to Me" is an Australian supernatural horror film, skillfully directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, promising viewers a captivating and unsettling experience. The movie achieves a commendable rating of 7 out of 10, owing to its enthralling plot, impressive practical effects, compelling performances by the young cast, and an evocative sense of dread.

The narrative revolves around a group of teenagers who chance upon a mysterious embalmed hand, granting them the ability to communicate with spirits. What begins as an exciting and alluring discovery swiftly descends into a nightmarish journey as they test the limits of their newfound power.

A standout feature of "Talk to Me" is the excellently crafted eerie ambiance. The film masterfully builds suspense, relying minimally on special effects and instead utilizing a well-crafted sound design to keep the audience on tenterhooks. The practical effects portraying possession scenes are notably impressive, adding to the film's overall eerie tone.

Sophie Wilde's portrayal of Mia shines as a highlight of the film. Her commanding performance positions her as a potential scream queen in the genre. Additionally, Joe Bird impresses in his role as Riley, bringing depth and emotional weight to the storyline.

However, "Talk to Me" is not flawless. The ending might leave some viewers craving more closure and emotional resolution. Moreover, the film leaves numerous questions unanswered and occasionally leans on shaky logic to propel the plot.

The supporting cast, featuring Alexandra Jensen, Otis Dhanji, and Miranda Otto, delivers solid performances, underscoring the talent of the young ensemble.

In summary, "Talk to Me" is a supernatural horror film that effectively delivers a spine-tingling experience. Its captivating story, remarkable practical effects, and strong performances make it a worthwhile choice for fans of the genre. While it may not tie up all loose ends or conclude entirely satisfyingly, it keeps audiences engaged and submerged in its eerie world. Sophie Wilde and Joe Bird's performances stand out, adding depth to the characters and the overarching narrative. If you're in the mood for a supernatural thriller with a dose of creepy and violent encounters, "Talk to Me" deserves a spot on your watchlist.

Watch at https://apple.co/3t4hJgN

REVIEW: The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023) Starring Javier Botet

"The Last Voyage of the Demeter" skillfully resurrects the classic tale of Dracula, taking the audience on a chilling journey through a haunting lens. Directed by André Øvredal and written by Bragi F. Schut Jr. and Zak Olkewicz, this 2023 supernatural horror film expertly navigates the perilous waters of horror, blending atmospheric dread with shocking twists.

The film's focal point is the doomed voyage of the merchant ship Demeter, led by the capable Corey Hawkins as Clemens, an unwitting doctor joining the ill-fated crew. Aisling Franciosi shines in her standout performance as Anna, a stowaway enslaved by the sinister Dracula, portrayed with eerie mastery by Javier Botet. The ensemble cast, featuring Liam Cunningham as Captain Elliot and David Dastmalchian as first mate Wojchek, delivers solid performances anchoring the film.

A notable strength of the film is its ability to cultivate a pervasive atmosphere of dread. From the departure of Demeter from Varna, Bulgaria, to its ominous arrival on the British coast, viewers are engulfed in a sense of impending doom. The synergy of cinematography and sound design sustains unease throughout the film.

"The Last Voyage of the Demeter" adeptly balances horror and suspense by integrating Bram Stoker's "Dracula" source material, revitalizing the classic tale while preserving its fundamental essence. The film's reliance on the original "Captain's Log" chapter adds depth and intrigue to the narrative.

Moreover, the movie is replete with pleasantly savage surprises, keeping the audience enthralled and perched on the edge of their seats. The unexpected plot twists and the relentless pursuit of Dracula infuse a sense of urgency, propelling the story at a brisk pace.

However, it's important to acknowledge the film's predictability due to its source material. Those familiar with the Dracula legend will find few surprises in the overall narrative arc. Nonetheless, the film injects enough fresh elements and suspense to maintain audience engagement.

In summary, "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" is an intelligent, well-crafted, and at times genuinely eerie take on the Dracula legend. It effectively taps into the iconic vampire's lore while presenting a new perspective. The combination of a talented cast, atmospheric dread, and surprising twists makes it a captivating horror film that will appease both avid horror enthusiasts and general moviegoers. While it doesn't entirely escape the trappings of its source material, it successfully charts its own course within the vampire's shadow. I would rate "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" a solid 8/10.

Out now in cinemas and on Apple TV at https://apple.co/3r1KDh6

You can also pick up the book at https://amzn.to/3LcSVcK

COMPETITION: Win Creepshow Series One, Two & Three on Blu-ray

Following the announcement that Creepshow Series Four will debut on Friday, 13th October 2023, we’re delighted to announce the home entertainment release of Creepshow Series One, Two and Three.

And to celebrate we have a copy of each to give away to one lucky winner.

Synopsis: 

TUNE IN to Creepshow for some old-school horror thrills as the critically acclaimed TV series based on the seminal 1980s cult classic from horror dream team, maestro George A. Romero and virtuoso Stephen King, gets its home entertainment bow courtesy of Acorn Media International. Creepshow Series One, Two and Three are set to arrive on Blu-ray, DVD and digital on 25 September 2023 as individual releases, each packed with special features.

Creepshow Series Two comes with two fresh animated tales of terror in A Creepshow Animated Special, which sees Kiefer Sutherland (Designated Survivor, 24) star in Survivor Type based on the short story by Stephen King and Joe King (The Kissing Booth, The Act) star in Twittering from the Circus of the Dead, based on the short story by Joe Hill (NOS4A2). Series Two also comes with A Creepshow Holiday Special starring Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect) and Adam Pally (The Mindy Project).

Produced by Greg Nicotero (The Walking Dead), the series features a slew of unique horror vignettes from some of the most lauded talent around, including Stephen King, as well as his son, writer Joe Hill (NOS4A2), Primetime Emmy® award-winning Rob Schrab (Rick and Morty, Monster House), Josh Malerman (Bird Box) and more.

Creepshow comic books come to life in this anthology series of terrifying tales hosted by the silent ghoul. Haunted dollhouses, werewolves, murderous goblins, villainous trick-or-treaters, the dead and medical marvels are just a few of the things to watch out for – you never know what shocks await you in the next chapter...

This blood-soaked, playfully dark and irresistibly eerie series is the perfect homage to horrors of old. Gory good fun at its most entertaining, set the channel to Creepshow for a horror feast to sate your appetite for fear.

Buy from Amazon at - 

Season 1 - https://amzn.to/3RrzWPJ

Season 2 - https://amzn.to/3RqChud

Season 3 - https://amzn.to/3PqcbVG

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 02-10-23

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 The Antichrist (Cult Classics) on Blu-ray

Delve deeper into the STUDIOCANAL catalogue with the curated CULT CLASSICS collection. Discover eclectic, boundary pushing rarities, genre classics, and forgotten cinematic treasures. The next release is The Antichrist.

And to celebrate we have a copy to give away.

Synopsis: 

A car accident caused by her father leaves the young Ippolita paralyzed and her mother dead. Following her uncle’s advice she undergoes a hypnotic session with the intent to heal her, but it actually awakens the spirit of her ancestress who was condemned for witchcraft.

INCLUDED WITH THE ANTICHRIST:

BRAND NEW SACRED AND PROFANE:  The Audio Recollections of Alberto De Martino

RAISING HELL: Featuring Alberto De Martino and Ennio Morricone

Audio Commentary with  Author/Critic Lee Gambin and Critic Sally Christie

The Tempter Opening Credits    

TV Spot 

Blu-ray edition comes with four collector’s art cards

English and Italian audio options available

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3EsxGzR

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 21-09-23

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.

COMPETITION: Win It Follows & Crimes Of The Future on Blu-ray

It Follows & Crimes Of The Future are both out now on Blu-ray

And to celebrate we have a copy of each on standard Blu-ray to give away.

Synopsis: It Follows

Lauded by critics and audiences alike as a modern horror classic, IT FOLLOWS, now looking better than ever, is about to creep up on you and shock you again. For 19-year-old Jay, Autumn should be about school, boys and weekends out at the lake. But after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, she is plagued by strange visions and the inescapable sense that someone, or something, is following her. With this burden, Jay and her teenage friends must find a way to escape the horrors that seem to be only a few steps behind.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/46eYG1Z

Synopsis: Crimes of the Future

In the near future, a couple of performance artists push the boundaries of taste and decency with daring shows of mutilation and organ mutation. All the while a shadowy government agency is closing in on a terrorist group that are pushing for the next evolution in the human experience.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3R7hTy1

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 18-09-23

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.

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).