REVIEW: The Nun II (2023) - Starring Taissa Farmiga and Bonnie Aarons

 

Watch on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3MmtR3y

"The Nun II" proves itself as a worthy installment in The Conjuring Universe, offering a heightened dose of horror and suspense that surpasses its predecessor. Directed by Michael Chaves, the film effectively crafts an ominously chilling atmosphere, accentuated by its old-world European settings and gloomy cinematography.

A standout feature is the film's ability to induce genuine skin-crawling scares. Michael Chaves orchestrates terrifying chaos, especially with terrified young girls, maintaining an edge-of-the-seat experience. Taissa Farmiga's performance as Sister Irene Palmer and Katelyn Rose Downey's portrayal of Sophie are praiseworthy, culminating in a nail-biting and unforgettable finale. The suspense and jump scares are executed masterfully, consistently engaging and occasionally startling the audience.

However, "The Nun II" isn’t without its drawbacks. At times, the plot feels somewhat formulaic, following the standard trajectory of horror sequels. While scarier than its predecessor, it doesn't venture far into new storytelling territory. Additionally, some moments feel dragged out, affecting the overall pacing and the consistent tension.

The climax scene, despite a strong build-up, might feel rushed, potentially leaving room for a more satisfying resolution.

In terms of performances, Taissa Farmiga, Jonas Bloquet, and the haunting presence of Bonnie Aarons as the Demon Nun deliver effectively. Newcomers Storm Reid and Anna Popplewell seamlessly fit into the franchise.

The plot, though somewhat predictable, manages to offer a decent level of supernatural intrigue and horror elements. By expanding on Valak's mythology and delving into St. Lucy's legacy, the film weaves a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged.

Overall, "The Nun II" merits an 8 out of 10 for delivering a scarier and more engaging experience than its predecessor. While it doesn’t revolutionize the horror genre, it fulfills its promises, offering a chilling and suspenseful addition to The Conjuring Universe. Fans of the franchise and horror enthusiasts will find much to appreciate in this gothic supernatural horror film.

Watch on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3MmtR3y

REVIEW: The Exorcist: Believer (2023) - Starring Leslie Odom Jr, Linda Blair and Ellen Burstyn

 

In cinemas now, and also available on digital at https://apple.co/3tYc6S8

And available to pre-order on home entertainment at https://amzn.to/49fnnNJ

"The Exorcist: Believer" marks the return of the iconic horror franchise in its sixth installment, directed by David Gordon Green and co-written with Peter Sattler. The film succeeds in continuing the legacy of the original 1973 classic, offering a compelling and visually striking story that emphasizes faith and community.

The plot centers on Victor, a grieving father who, after his daughter Angela and her friend return from a mysterious three-day disappearance with no memory, begins experiencing alarming behavior. Victor’s only hope lies in seeking help from Chris MacNeil, whose past with her daughter Regan might hold the key to combating a malevolent force.

A prominent feature of the film is its stunning cinematography, each frame masterfully crafted to immerse the audience in the eerie and unsettling ambiance.

The thematic emphasis on faith and community as tools to combat oppression adds depth to the narrative, elevating the film beyond typical horror fare. Leslie Odom Jr.'s portrayal of Victor adds emotional weight to the story.

Nevertheless, "The Exorcist: Believer" struggles to introduce innovative ideas and scares, relying on familiar horror tropes, missing an opportunity to inject freshness into the franchise.

The limited screen time for Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil remains a drawback, especially for fans anticipating more from her character.

Set in Haiti and Georgia, the plot unfolds a tale of supernatural horror surrounding photographer Victor Fielding's battle with faith after a tragic event in Haiti and his daughter Angela's possession, intertwined with her friend Katherine's plight. The narrative intricately weaves voodoo, possession, and a relentless quest for answers.

The ensemble cast, led by Leslie Odom Jr., Lidya Jewett, and Olivia O'Neill, delivers solid performances, with Linda Blair and Ellen Burstyn reprising their iconic roles, maintaining a connection to the original while allowing new characters to shine.

In summary, "The Exorcist: Believer" is a worthy addition to the franchise, capturing the essence of the original while exploring themes of faith and community. Despite some lapses in originality and screen time for pivotal characters, it manages to offer a satisfying horror experience for both devoted fans and new audiences.

Scoring a 7.5 out of 10, it stands as a meaningful installment in the Exorcist series.

In cinemas now, and also available on digital at https://apple.co/3tYc6S8

And available to pre-order on home entertainment at https://amzn.to/49fnnNJ

TRAILER & NEWS - Wickedly Evil (2023) - Starring Joseph McGucken, James Farrelly and Darryl Carter

Prepare yourself for a fiendishly delightful cinematic adventure with "Wickedly Evil," a horror-comedy caper set to send shivers down your spine and tickle your funny bone. Directed by the talented Garry Walsh in his directorial debut (known for "Older Than Ireland"), this film is all set to make its haunting digital debut in the UK this November, courtesy of 101 Films.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Irish countryside, "Wickedly Evil" follows the escapades of a trio of bumbling gangsters - Frankie (Joseph McGucken of "The Doireann Project"), Dancer (James Farrelly), and Gaz (Darryl Carter) - whose lives take a gruesome turn after a successful heist on a notorious Irish crime family. Unfortunately for them, their celebratory run takes an ominous twist when they catch the attention of Clare (portrayed by Louise Bourke of "Who We Love"), the mob's youngest sister.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Clare becomes an involuntary hostage, one gang member goes missing, and another is left nursing a gunshot wound. The gang's only option is to retreat to a seemingly safe house in the remote Irish countryside, yet safety remains elusive as problems continue to pile up. Their boss, The Chief (Owen Roe of "Intermission"), seems more preoccupied with drugs and cash than the safety of his crew.

As tensions flare and paranoia tightens its grip, suspicions brew among the local police. Meanwhile, next-door neighbor Sadie (Cat L. Walsh) offers both leftover lasagne and eerie warnings about recent disappearances in the area, adding to the unsettling atmosphere. The situation quickly spirals out of control, revealing that evil lurks in the most unexpected corners.

Get ready for a cinematic cocktail of boisterous humor, blood-curdling monstrous mayhem, and a narrative that'll keep you guessing at every turn. "Wickedly Evil" promises an unforgettable blend of scares and laughs, making it a must-watch horror-comedy of 2023. Make sure you mark your calendars for its digital release on November 13, 2023, and be prepared to be thrilled and chilled in equal measure.

REVIEW: Five Nights at Freddy's (2023) - Starring Josh Hutcherson

 

Watch now at Apple TV at https://apple.co/474s381

Play the video game at https://amzn.to/49dr1ry

"Five Nights at Freddy's" marks the transition of the beloved video game series to the silver screen, promising an engaging experience for both devoted fans and newcomers. This supernatural horror film masterfully captures the essence of the games while offering its own distinct take on the narrative.

The story follows Mike (played by Josh Hutcherson), a troubled individual responsible for his younger sister Abby (portrayed by Piper Rubio). Haunted by the unresolved disappearance of his brother, Mike, in dire need of work to retain custody of Abby, takes a night security job at the eerie Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria. Yet, what appears as a mere employment soon leads him into encounters with the supernatural, alongside Vanessa, a local police officer, plunging him into a nightmarish unknown.

A standout aspect of "Five Nights at Freddy's" is its perfect fit for Halloween viewing—a remarkable creature feature. The ominous atmosphere of Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria is intricately brought to life, almost becoming a character itself. The set design and animatronic characters pay homage to the source material, offering an authentic and nostalgic experience for the game's enthusiasts.

The casting, especially Josh Hutcherson's portrayal of the troubled security guard, shines. Supported by Elizabeth Lail, Piper Rubio, Mary Stuart Masterson, and Matthew Lillard, the ensemble adds depth and strength to the narrative.

The film excels in its fan service and references, enriching the experience for long-time enthusiasts. It's commendable how the movie is packed with nods to the game series, enhancing the thrill for fans.

However, the underutilization of the pivotal animatronic characters, central to the game's lore, and the lack of effective jump scares detract from the potential horror elements that could have intensified tension and fear.

The plot, a blend of horror, mystery, and family drama, intricately weaves together themes of loss, family, and the supernatural, offering a satisfying and engaging story.

In summary, "Five Nights at Freddy's" serves as a solid adaptation of the cherished video game series. While it faithfully captures the game's essence, delivers a compelling narrative, and showcases impressive production design, it falls short in certain areas. Despite underused animatronic characters and the absence of effective jump scares, its strengths overshadow its weaknesses. It's a must-watch for series devotees and an enjoyable horror movie for Halloween.

With a score of  8 out of 10, "Five Nights at Freddy's" stands as a significant addition to the horror genre.

Watch now at Apple TV at https://apple.co/474s381

Play the video game at https://amzn.to/49dr1ry

REVIEW: Slotherhouse (2023) - Starring Lisa Ambalavanar, Sydney Craven and Tiff Stevenson

 

Out Now on Amazon at https://amzn.to/40bA880

"Slotherhouse," a 2023 horror-comedy helmed by director Matthew Goodhue and penned by Bradley Fowler and Cady Lanigan, takes an outrageously absurd premise and runs with it. The film promises an uproarious experience, though not without moments that might leave audiences cringing.

The plot centers on Alpha, a deranged sloth from Panama, and Emily Young's ambition to lead Sigma Lambda Theta. What begins as an innocent pursuit takes a dark turn with a series of deaths that implicate Alpha, setting the stage for a peculiar horror-comedy ride.

One of the film's undeniable strengths lies in its embrace of the ludicrous and its commitment to an unparalleled brand of humor. For those eager to witness a sloth engaging in absurdly violent acts, from stabbing to electrocuting victims or even snapping selfies with them, "Slotherhouse" is the perfect match. It revels in its wild premise, delivering a gleefully cheesy horror-comedy vibe bound to entertain.

Nevertheless, the film takes the concept of absurdity to its extreme. A sloth operating a laptop and even driving a car might be a stretch for some viewers. While the over-the-top nature adds to the film's charm, it could deter those seeking a more grounded horror-comedy experience.

Additionally, some of the gore has been toned down, likely for a lower cinema rating. This move, while understandable, might make one question why the filmmakers didn't fully commit to their outlandish vision, potentially limiting the film's appeal.

Despite these nuances, "Slotherhouse" distinguishes itself in a crowded genre by embracing its outrageous premise. It's a uniquely funny horror-comedy that's unafraid to be different. With its blend of humor, horror, and sheer audacity, it's a cinematic experience that deserves recognition.

In my opinion, "Slotherhouse" merits a solid 8.5 out of 10. If you're up for an unforgettable, wildly bizarre horror-comedy, it's a must-watch. Just brace yourself for a level of absurdity that's not for the faint of heart.

Out Now on Amazon at https://amzn.to/40bA880

REVIEW: SAW X (2023) - Starring Tobin Bell and Shawnee Smith

 

Out Now in Cinemas and on Digital at

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3Ma9K8C

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3FKtFHU

And out soon on Blu-ray, pre-order now at https://amzn.to/3Qtze2h

"Saw X" revitalizes the iconic Saw film series by offering a unique perspective on the Jigsaw legacy while maintaining its trademark gruesome essence. Directed by Kevin Greutert and penned by Peter Goldfinger and Josh Stolberg, the film boldly positions itself as a direct sequel to the original "Saw" (2004) and a prequel to "Saw II" (2005). With a $13 million budget, the creators aimed to both satisfy loyal fans and captivate newcomers.

Tobin Bell's portrayal of John Kramer/Jigsaw remains a standout in the series, with "Saw X" potentially showcasing his most compelling performance yet. His presence is pivotal to the franchise's success, evident in the films' popularity.

The film’s strength lies in its balanced storytelling approach. "Saw X" emphasizes character development and narrative, steering away from excessive torture, which enriches the plot and engages the audience further.

Shawnee Smith's return as Amanda Young adds depth to the storyline, offering a brief yet impactful performance that aligns with the series' continuity.

The movie pays homage to its origins, sprinkling numerous nods and references to the original film, delighting die-hard fans.

However, some fans might not resonate with the exploration of John Kramer's more human side due to his vulnerability caused by brain cancer. While attempting to evolve the character and narrative, this move might detract from his established enigmatic persona as a relentless killer.

The nearly 2-hour runtime might test the patience of horror enthusiasts seeking concise, adrenaline-pumping experiences.

In terms of production, "Saw X" showcases progress for the series. The trap designs are more intricate than ever, displaying a commitment to intensifying the horror. Practical effects dominate the gruesome scenes, contributing to the film's authenticity.

The plot combines suspense, unexpected twists, and brutality. John Kramer's quest takes surprising turns, introducing new characters and complex alliances that keep the audience on edge. The traps themselves are inventive and brutal, delivering the signature shock factor of the "Saw" series.

In summary, "Saw X" successfully rejuvenates the franchise while honoring its core elements. With stellar performances, intricate trap designs, and a complex plot, it merits an 8 out of 10. Despite risks that might not resonate with all fans, the film breathes new life into the series, solidifying its relevance in the horror genre. "Saw X" is a must-watch for long-term enthusiasts and those seeking an intense, gory thrill.

Out Now in Cinemas and on Digital at

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3Ma9K8C

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

And out soon on Blu-ray, pre-order now at https://amzn.to/3Qtze2h

Heir Of The Witch: A Haunting Gothic Tale

 

Prepare to be enthralled by "Heir Of The Witch," a gothic supernatural horror film that promises to deliver spine-tingling chills and eerie thrills. This cinematic gem marks the impressive directorial debut of Victoria U Bell, who also wrote the script and stars in the lead role. Rooted in folklore, "Heir Of The Witch" is a chilling tale that is all set to make its digital debut in the UK on November 20th, 2023, courtesy of Miracle Media.

In "Heir Of The Witch," we are introduced to Anna, portrayed by Victoria U Bell. She is an underprivileged seamstress, toiling away in America, living with and caring for her bedridden aunt, Rosie (played by Vanessa Neff). However, there is more to Anna than initially meets the eye, and a dark secret haunts her as she yearns for love and acceptance in high society.

As Anna's life unfolds, she becomes haunted by a malevolent witch, a ghostly figure that seems to follow her every step. Her attempts to lead a seemingly ordinary life in society become increasingly challenging, and as she forms relationships with those around her, the situation takes a sinister turn for the worse.

The malevolent witch's influence over Anna intensifies, and as she begins to wreak bloody havoc in the community, Anna finds herself ensnared in a web of terror. The question remains, can Anna escape the clutches of this vengeful witch and regain control over her life?

"Heir Of The Witch" promises to deliver a spine-tingling and profoundly eerie cinematic experience that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. This bewitching feature, rooted in folklore and woven with chilling elements, is set to take viewers on a journey into the dark depths of the supernatural. Get ready to be captivated by the haunting tale of Anna and her sinister connection to the witch as "Heir Of The Witch" unfolds on November 20, 2023. This is a cinematic experience not to be missed for those who crave a dose of gothic horror and supernatural intrigue.

Watch at https://apple.co/46R57ZI (USA)
Also available in the UK on release date at
iTunes
Sky
Amazon
Rakuten

Werewolf Santa: A Blood-Soaked Christmas Horror Feast

 

The holiday season is about to get a sinister twist with the upcoming release of "Werewolf Santa" in the UK. 

This darkly comedic horror film, directed by Airell Anthony Hayles and featuring a cameo by Joe Bob Briggs, promises to be a bloody and brilliantly unique addition to the Christmas movie lineup. Having premiered at FrightFest 2023, this movie is set to make its digital debut on November 6, 2023, courtesy of Miracle Media.

In "Werewolf Santa," viewers are introduced to the angsty teenager Lucy, portrayed by Katherine Rodden. Lucy hosts a YouTube show dedicated to uncovering evidence of natural monsters. However, her luck takes an unexpected turn as she heads home to spend Christmas in Hastings with her bickering, divorced parents Carol (played by Emily Booth) and Charlie (portrayed by Mark Arnold).

On Christmas Eve, Lucy's mundane holiday plans take a macabre turn when she witnesses Santa Claus getting bitten by a werewolf, subsequently transforming into a lycanthrope himself. As Werewolf Santa embarks on a bloody rampage in Hastings, Lucy, alongside her friend Dustin (played by Charlie Preston) and her dysfunctional family, embarks on a madcap adventure to save their town from the bloodthirsty beast.

Armed with nothing more than a rusty ice skate, a camera, and a vague understanding of how werewolves operate, Lucy becomes the unlikely hero in this holiday horror tale. Her mission: to prevent her town from becoming the main course in Werewolf Santa's festive feast.

"Werewolf Santa" promises to be a refreshing and exhilarating departure from the typical saccharine-sweet Christmas films. This dark comedy horror film offers a blood-soaked, playfully demented, and joyously unique take on the holiday season, where Santa isn't just coming to town for milk and cookies; he's on the prowl for flesh, blood, and mayhem.

As the holiday season approaches, keep an eye out for "Werewolf Santa." This film, with its irreverent humor and gruesome thrills, is set to provide a memorable cinematic experience, showcasing a Christmas tale like no other. Prepare for a joyously twisted and darkly comedic holiday feast that will leave you questioning whether you'll ever look at Santa Claus the same way again. "Werewolf Santa" is not your typical Christmas movie, and that's precisely what makes it a must-watch for those seeking an alternative and entertaining holiday horror experience.

Available November 6th at https://apple.co/3MkFxnq

COMPETITION: Win Anne Rice's Interview with the Vampire: Season 1 on Blu-ray

Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire Season One comes to Blu-ray and DVD on 6th November and each, courtesy of Acorn Media International.

And to celebrate we have a great competition and 3 copies on Blu-ray to give away.

Synopsis

SINK YOUR teeth into Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire for a blood-soaked saga of immortality, love and revenge starring Jacob Anderson (Game of Thrones), Eric Bogosian (Succession) and Sam Reid (The Newsreader). This contemporary adaptation breathes new life into Rice’s revolutionary gothic novel and marks the thrilling first instalment of AMC’s emerging Immortal Universe series based on her lauded The Vampire Chronicles.

The series showcases an ensemble of exceptional talent. Not only is it created by Boardwalk Empire’s Rolin Jones but is executively produced by a host of stars, including award-winning producer Mark Johnson (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul), Christopher Rice, the late Anne Rice and award-winning director Alan Taylor (The Sopranos, Game of Thrones) – who also directs the first two episodes. With a second season on the horizon, now is the perfect time to delve in and witness their talent first-hand.

In modern-day Dubai, vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) sits down with renowned journalist Daniel Molloy (Eric Bogosian) to share the story of his life – or rather, his afterlife – which begins in the hustle and bustle of 20th-century New Orleans. There, challenged by the constraints as a queer Black man in 1900s America, Louis finds it impossible to ignore the irresistible allure of Lestat de Lioncourt’s (Sam Reid) offer of the ultimate escape: a chance to outmanoeuvre the confines of mortality and join him as his vampire companion.

But Louis’ new powers come at a precious price and the introduction of Lestat’s latest creation – the child vampire Claudia (Bailey Bass – Avatar: The Way Of Water) – propels them on a path of revenge and redemption spanning decades.

Filled with passion, blood, monsters and beauty and with its unique blend of racial dynamics, sexuality, horror and humour – Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire is truly to die for and will leave audiences thirsting for more.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3sb6bZa

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 13-11-23

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.

Fast TV channel NYX UK presents a vintage month of horror movies

In November, NYX UK, now available on Freeview channel 289, is set to bring you an array of thrilling premieres. Prepare to be captivated by a variety of sinister characters and suspenseful stories.

First on the list is the beloved sci-fi classic, "INVADERS FROM MARS," where menacing mind readers take center stage. Next up, brace yourself for the terrifying spectacle of "THE GIANT CLAW," featuring winged marauders that will send shivers down your spine. Larry Cohen's unforgettable cult horror gem, "IT'S ALIVE" from 1974, promises to haunt your dreams.

The channel also presents the chilling canine tale, "MAN'S BEST FRIEND," and Hammer's enigmatic "X THE UNKNOWN" to lead the popular 'Hammer Sundays' lineup at 9 pm.

Adding to the excitement, there's a channel premiere of the timeless gothic horror "MURDER IN THE RUE MORGUE" (1932), starring the legendary Bela Lugosi. And on November 23rd, in celebration of Boris Karloff's birthday, you can enjoy a double-feature of T. Hayes Hunter's enduring "THE GHOUL" (1933), featuring Ralph Richardson in his movie debut, and Roger Corman's infamous "THE TERROR" (1963), alongside a young Jack Nicholson.

The monthly highlights continue with Pete Walker's influential '70s British horror, "FRIGHTMARE," the heart-pounding werewolf thriller "THE BEAST MUST DIE," the feminist slasher film "THE SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE," Sergio Martino's masterful giallo "YOUR VICE IS A LOCKED ROOM AND ONLY I HAVE THE KEY," and the gripping horror-infused crime thriller "THE CIRCUS OF FEAR," starring Christopher Lee and Klaus Kinski.

Additionally, Friday late-night horror gets a visually enthralling Gallic twist with four classics from Jean Rollin: "THE NUDE VAMPIRE," "DEMONIACS," "LIVING DEAD GIRL," and "THE IRON ROSE." Prepare for a month filled with thrilling and chilling entertainment on NYX UK.

Primetime films in transmission order:

Fri 3 Nov @ 21:00 – INVADERS FROM MARS (1953) *Channel premiere

A young boy, David, witnesses a flying saucer bury itself in a sandpit behind his house. He starts noticing strange behaviour in the adults around him, beginning with his own parents, and realises that humans are being brainwashed by the Martian invaders. Who does David turn to for help? Directed by William Cameron Menzies, this is a quintessential 1950s science fiction film, capturing the era's Cold War paranoia and the fear of unknown threats.

Saturday 4 Nov @ 21:00 - THE GIANT CLAW (1957) *Channel premiere

When a strange flying object is spotted, it is believed to be a UFO. However, it turns out to be an extraterrestrial bird made of anti-matter which leaves a trail of death and destruction in its wake. "The Giant Claw" stands as a testament to the creature features of the 1950s, combining elements of science fiction with the ever-present fear of the unknown during the Cold War era. Directed by Fred F. Sears.

Sun 6 Nov @ 21:00 – X THE UNKNOWN (1956) *Channel Premiere

*Part of Hammer Sundays

Dr Adam Royston (Dean Jagger), stars as a nuclear scientist tasked with understanding and ultimately halting this radioactive menace. As the entity moves and consumes, it leaves a trail of death and devastation, melting anything, and anyone in its path. Emerging from the prolific era of 1950s British science fiction and horror, this Hammer production, directed by Leslie Norman, stands as a chilling foray into the realm of the mysterious and the unexplained.

Wed 8 Nov @ 21:00 – THE SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE (1982)

A high school senior, Trish, decides to throw a slumber party while her parents are away. However, unbeknownst to the partygoers, an escaped killer with a penchant for power drills, is on the loose. As the body count rises, the young women must band together to battle the relentless killer. Directed by Amy Holden Jones and penned by feminist author Rita Mae Brown, the movie is often recognised not just for its visceral thrills but also for its undercurrents of social commentary, particularly on gender roles and exploitation.

Thursday 9 Nov @ 21:00 – YOUR VICE IS A LOCKED ROOM AND ONLY I HAVE THE KEY (1972)

Set in a decaying mansion, Oliviero (Luigi Pistilli), a failed writer and alcoholic, subjects his wife, Irina (Anita Strindberg), to constant psychological torment and humiliation. Into this tumultuous setting arrives Floriana (Edwige Fenech), Oliviero's enticing niece. As tensions rise, a series of murders unfold, and the mansion's inhabitants find themselves trapped in a web of suspicion and deceit. Directed by the prolific Sergio Martino, the film is an intricate maze of deceit, depravity, and deadly intentions, all wrapped up in a compelling narrative inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's short story "The Black Cat."

Sat 11 Nov @ 21:00 – MAN’S BEST FRIEND (1993) *Channel premiere

Ambitious TV journalist, Lori Tanner (Ally Sheedy), breaks into the research facility where Max, a genetically engineered Tibetan Mastiff is being held, to expose the unethical experiments being conducted there. She inadvertently releases Max but seeing him as just an innocent dog subjected to cruel experiments, she adopts him. However, she is unaware of his deadly genetic modifications and his need to hunt. Directed by John Lafia.

Fri 17 Nov @ 21:00 – FRIGHTMARE (1974)

.Dorothy and Edmund Yates (played by Sheila Keith and Rupert Davies respectively) are released from a mental institution after 18 years. They attempt to reintegrate into society and lead a quiet, secluded life in the English countryside, but unknown to those around them, the couple harbours a dark and gruesome secret. Directed by Pete Walker, who was known for his inclination towards suspense and thriller genres, the film is notable for its uncanny blend of domestic drama and gruesome horror.

Sat 18 Nov @ 23:00 – MURDERS IN THE RUE MORGUE (1932) *Channel premiere

Dr Mirakle (Bela Lugosi), a carnival sideshow entertainer, exhibits Erik the Ape as the missing link between man and ape. However, his interests are far more sinister than mere showmanship. Obsessed with proving his theory of evolution, Mirakle kidnaps women to forcibly mix their blood with that of Erik, hoping to find a compatible match. This atmospheric pre-Code horror film is directed by Robert Florey and inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's short story of the same name.

Thurs Nov 23 Oct @ 21:00 – THE TERROR (1963)

*To celebrate Boris Karloff’s birthday

Set in the 18th century, in a desolate, crumbling castle, a French soldier encounters a mysterious woman while searching for his regiment, entangling him in a web of supernatural occurrences and dark secrets. This Roger Corman-directed horror film, starring Boris Karloff and a young Jack Nicholson, has gained cult classic status.

Thurs Nov 23 Oct @ 23:00 – THE GHOUL (1933)

*To celebrate Boris Karloff’s birthday

Egyptologist and Professor Henry Morlant (Boris Karloff) thinks an ancient jewel will give him powers of rejuvenation if it is offered up to the god Anubis. But when Morlant dies, his assistant steals the jewel. While a gaggle of interlopers, including a fake vicar (Ralph Richardson), descend on the professor's manor to steal the jewel for themselves, Morlant returns from the dead to punish everyone who has betrayed him. Directed by Hayes Hunter, this marks Ralph Richardson’s feature film debut.

Fri 24 Nov @ 21:00 - THE BEAST MUST DIE (1974)

Wealthy big-game hunter Tom Newcliffe invites a group of people to his isolated mansion, suspecting that one of them is a werewolf. As the guests are picked off one by one, the survivors must confront their fears and uncover the true identity of the beast before it's too late. The film's innovative use of a "werewolf break," in which viewers are given a chance to guess the identity of the werewolf, adds an interactive element that sets it apart from other horror films of its time.

Sat 25 Nov @21:00 – IT’S ALIVE (1974) *Channel premiere

Expectant parents Frank and Lenore Davis are excited to welcome their second child. But their joy turns to sheer horror when their baby is born as a mutated creature, with an inexplicable and violent bloodlust. Larry Cohen, a filmmaker known for his knack of blending social commentary with genre cinema, delivers one of the 1970s' most memorable cult horror films. In a decade replete with films exploring societal anxieties, Cohen's tale of a monstrous newborn tapped into the deep-seated fears surrounding childbirth, pharmaceuticals, and genetic mutations.

Sun 26 Nov @ 21:00 – THE CIRCUS OF FEAR (1966)

Following a daring armoured car heist in London, the loot mysteriously finds its way into Barberini's Circus. At the circus, an enigmatic lion tamer named Gregor (Christopher Lee), always masked and shrouded in mystery, takes centre stage as the potential suspect. But when a series of gruesome murders start occurring, the suspects list grows. A British-German co=production directed by John Moxey.