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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Out now in cinemas and on digital

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

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

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

 

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

Depraved 

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

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

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

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

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

Blood Covered Chocolate

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

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

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

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

Interview with Dean Kilbey

Jon: So, Dean, you have three films in this year's FrightFest. That’s quite an achievement. Tell us about the films and your involvement.

Dean: Yes, I’m very happy about it, especially as it’s the 25th anniversary. It’s such a massive festival, and I feel very privileged. I play the lead, Alan, in Members Club by writer-director Marc Coleman, which is the Saturday night main screen feature film. It sold out all 800 tickets in 30 minutes! We’re all still pretty shocked about it, to be honest.

It’s a comedy horror about an over-the-hill male stripper group that ends up in a working men’s club and somehow gets involved in a plot to bring a 16th-century witch back from the dead. Yes, it’s mad, gory, and very, very funny. The cast is incredible, packed with top actors, including Perry Benson, Marc Monero, Steve Oram, Juliet Cowan, David Schaal, and even Peter Andre pops up. Plus, the rest of the cast from Marc’s first film, ManFish, Liam Noble, Emma Stannard, and David Alexander, are like family now.

I’m very excited for people to see this. Marc, the director, is a mad genius, and it was such fun to shoot.

Jon: You’re also the male lead in the feature film Charlotte, playing Roy, a completely different character from Alan in Members Club.

Dean: Well, yes, very different. Alan is a happy-go-lucky type, whereas Roy has a very dark side with many mood changes. Is he a good guy or a bad guy? You’ll have to watch to find out. Without giving too much away, Charlotte has many twists and turns and really messes with your head.

Jon: Charlotte has been recommended as one of the top five terrifying films to watch at FrightFest this year. How does that feel?

Dean: Very proud, but I’m just part of the team. Writer-director Georgia Conlan and co-writer, DoP, and editor Martin Hardwick deserve all the credit. Those two literally did everything between them, and I’m so pleased that their hard work and talent have been recognised. I really hope this serves as a calling card for their talent.

Jon: Can you tell us about the story?

Dean: It’s difficult to talk about this one without spoilers, so I’ll just say it’s about a young schoolgirl who has run away from an abusive household and has been taken in by an older man who is trying to help get her back home. Yes, he has a past, but that doesn’t make him a bad man, or does it? Seriously, it’s a very clever story, just watch it!

Jon: And finally, your third film, Derelict. This looks like a gritty and atmospheric feature, shot partly in black and white. What can you tell us about it?

Dean: This film is a cinematic masterpiece. Director and writer Jonathan Zaurin has woven together such a breathtaking and heartbreaking revenge thriller with some of the most beautiful shots you’ve ever seen on film.

You may think I’m biased. Well, yes, I am, but I’m not the only one. He is already receiving rave reviews and being described in the same vein as Shane Meadows and Ben Wheatley films.

Jon: That’s a pretty strong statement. So, what makes this film so impressive?

Dean: Honestly, it’s a work of art. To be so visually stunning while also being so bleak is a skill in itself. The story is about a girl, played by the brilliant lead Suzanne Fulton, who loses her father, me, to a senseless attack and goes on a journey to find those who were responsible and help find peace within herself.

She really draws you in, and you feel every pain she is experiencing. The rest of the cast, too many to name them all, Micky Combes, Pete Bird, Darren King, Ayvianna Snow, all put in amazing, gritty, nuanced performances, and I feel very lucky to be part of this great film. I truly believe this is something very special.

Oh, and I haven’t even mentioned the original score by Michael Sanchez. It’s a totally immersive experience that is as beautiful as it is tragic.

Jon: Well, I can honestly say they all sound fantastic. Dare I ask, do you have a favourite film?

Dean: You can ask, but I can’t answer that. They are all so different, it’s impossible to compare. I will say that they are all at the top of their game in terms of their own genres, whether it’s comedy horror, psychological drama, or revenge thriller. I’m very proud to be involved in all three, playing totally different characters.

Jon: So, after FrightFest, what’s next for you?

Dean: Well, hopefully, the films will all do well in the big wide world and bring me more opportunities, but also get these filmmakers and other actors the recognition they deserve. Remember their names, you will definitely be hearing more from them.

Jon: Thanks for chatting, Dean. Good luck with the films, and have a great FrightFest!

Dean Kilbey still has films in post-production, including the horrors The Crucifix and The Shug, and can currently be seen on TV in Supacell and Top Boy for Netflix, ManFish on Amazon, plus Boiling Point the series on BBC One.

COMPETITION: Win The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live on Blu-ray

All hail The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live as Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln – Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities, This Life) and Michonne (Danai Gurira – Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War), the iconic zombie-slaughtering fan-favourites, return. Will the couple be reunited after many years apart in this hotly anticipated new chapter of one of TV’s best-loved franchises?

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

Synopsis:

Post The Walking Dead finale, lovers Rick Grimes (Lincoln) and Michonne (Gurira) have been separated for many years by an unstoppable force. Five years after being taken by the Civic Republic Military, Rick has desperately been trying to escape to find his love. Michonne, too, has been travelling far and wide while fighting horrors far worse than the dead in her unwavering, dangerous quest to be reunited with her soulmate.

Despite being deeply changed by the ever-evolving and increasingly brutal world around them, one thing remains true: they haven’t stopped searching for each other. The duo will stop at nothing for their homecoming. But as they’re thrust into new landscapes and the increasingly difficult challenges of new factions committed to waging war against zombies and humans, a peaceful reunion seems like an impossibility.

As human and zombie conflict thrillingly intertwine, the couples’ story continues.  Will they still have the bond they once had? Are they enemies, lovers, victims or victors? And, most crucially, will they be able to survive The Walking Dead…?

Order from Amazon at https://amzn.to/3X0dkIs

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 26-08-24

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

FrightFest 2024: A Feast of Genre Short Films

Images: Frightfest Press

By Jon Donnis

Since its inception in 2004, FrightFest has been the premiere destination for aficionados of genre cinema, offering a platform for the boldest and most innovative short films from across the globe. The 2024 edition, held at the iconic ODEON Luxe West End, continues this tradition with an exceptional lineup that showcases the best in horror, thriller, and dark fantasy shorts. This year’s selection includes fourteen World Premieres and spans an impressive array of themes, styles, and perspectives, affirming FrightFest's status as a hub for both emerging talents and established filmmakers.

Pre-Feature Shorts: A Glimpse into the Dark

One of the highlights of this year's festival is the collection of pre-feature shorts that will set the stage for the main features in both the Main and Discovery screens. Among these is the UK Premiere of Bella Thorne’s directorial debut, UNSETTLED. This haunting tale, based on a true queer revenge saga, delves into the horrors lurking within the conservative Bible Belt of Oklahoma. Other standout pre-feature shorts include Brea Grant’s MLM, a darkly humorous take on the perils of multi-level marketing, and Thom Newell’s FULL MOON GLORY HOLE, a twisted vampiristic tale that promises more than just a cheap thrill.

Adam Mason’s HOTLINE, which pays homage to the 70’s horror classic When A Stranger Calls, and Zach Parker’s BARISTA, a gory love letter to 70s exploitation cinema, further elevate the lineup. Each of these shorts, with their unique narratives and striking visual styles, perfectly primes audiences for the full-length features that follow.

Showcase Line-Ups: A Global Perspective on Genre Cinema

The short film showcases are where FrightFest truly shines, presenting a rich tapestry of stories from around the world. The first showcase features a range of international premieres, including FOREVER YOURS from Germany, a disturbing exploration of obsessive love, and THE COST OF FLESH from France, a visually stunning piece that immerses viewers in a tale of dark mysticism. The showcase also includes VHX, a U.S. entry that cleverly reimagines the horror potential of forgotten home movies.

From the surreal to the visceral, these films push the boundaries of conventional storytelling. Colin Minihan’s TRIP, for instance, uses groundbreaking VFX to create a hallucinatory journey into the unknown, while SHADOW by Kamell Allaway employs atmospheric horror to tell a chilling tale of maternal terror. Meanwhile, FOMO/ARMAGEDDON from Denmark offers a poignant reflection on family illness and societal neglect, culminating in a moving and apocalyptic narrative.

Daniel Mays in THE AWAKENING

UK Shorts: Homegrown Horrors

The UK is well-represented this year with twenty-two entries, showcasing the diversity and talent within the local genre filmmaking community. THE AWAKENING, starring Daniel Mays, stands out as a highlight, bringing a chilling story of nocturnal mystery to life. Returning FrightFest directors like David Yorke (SAFE) and Tony Hipwell (BODY WORN VIDEO) continue to impress with their latest works, demonstrating a mastery of tension and psychological horror.

These UK shorts cover a wide range of themes, from the macabre DIY dentistry in THE VAMPIRE THEORY to the supernatural terror of NYCTOPHOBIA. The darkly comedic BREAKFAST and the eerie DELIVERANCE explore the horror that can lurk in everyday situations, proving that even the most mundane moments can become nightmarish in the hands of skilled filmmakers.

BREAKFAST 

A Celebration of Genre Diversity

FrightFest 2024 is not just a showcase of horror—it’s a celebration of genre filmmaking in all its forms. From the deeply unsettling to the darkly humorous, the films selected for this year’s festival reflect the broad spectrum of styles and stories that genre cinema can encompass. With filmmakers from around the world contributing their unique voices to this year’s lineup, FrightFest continues to be a vital platform for both up-and-coming talents and established genre masters.

As audiences gather at the ODEON Luxe West End, they can expect to be thrilled, terrified, and utterly captivated by the imaginative storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship on display. Whether it's through the psychological terror of a World Premiere or the gruesome fun of a pre-feature short, FrightFest 2024 promises to be a feast for fans of the genre.

Full Line-Up Details

For those eager to dive into the specifics, the festival offers a meticulously curated schedule. From the unsettling tension of UNSETTLED to the haunting beauty of OPEN YOUR EYES, each short promises a unique experience, ensuring that this year’s FrightFest will linger in the minds of its audience long after the credits roll.

Pigeon Shrine FrightFest 2024 runs from 22–26 August at ODEON Luxe Leicester Sq & ODEON Luxe West End. Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of genre cinema unfold on the big screen.

For full programme details & tickets: www.frightfest.co.uk

Black Chariot: A Dark Journey Into the Haunting Vision of Lawrie Brewster

 

Hex Studios is set to unleash a chilling new addition to the world of horror with Black Chariot. This supernatural thriller, directed by the master of macabre, Lawrie Brewster (Lord of Tears, The Unkindness of Ravens), draws deep inspiration from the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, blending classic noir aesthetics with the unsettling atmosphere of Val Lewton’s timeless slow-burn horrors. Black Chariot promises to be a haunting homage to an era of cinema that continues to influence filmmakers and captivate audiences.

Nick Ford encounters the Black Chariot

Brewster, known for his distinctive blend of gothic horror and psychological intrigue, reveals that this project is a labour of love, deeply rooted in his fascination with Hitchcock's legacy. "My childhood was spent haunted and mesmerized by the romantic and seductive veil Hitchcock cast over me," Brewster shares. "Creating a period film that is both a love letter to that era and a haunting portrayal of horror is a dream come true."

PI Angel played by Nick Ford (Black Chariot)

Leading the cast is Laurence R. Harvey, famed for his unsettling performances in The Human Centipede series. In Black Chariot, Harvey takes on a complex role, reminiscent of Peter Lorre’s chilling portrayal in Fritz Lang’s M (1931). He embodies a ruthless manipulator who orchestrates a heist involving a red briefcase of mysterious contents. His co-conspirators, portrayed by newcomers Novarro Ramon, Dorian Todd, and Sam Barclay, are drawn into a deadly game that leads them to encounter a spectral figure known only as ‘The Devil,’ played by Richard Pate.

Sam Barclay (L) Megan Tremethick (C) Novarro Ramon (R)

The film’s enigmatic plot thickens with the inclusion of two brutal private detectives, portrayed by Nick Ford and Marco Rinaldi, and a beautiful yet mysterious hostage, played by rising horror star Megan Tremethick. Tremethick, who has been making waves in the horror community, finds a personal connection with Black Chariot, noting its uncanny resonance with the eerie spirit of Carnival of Souls.

The Devil (Richard Pate) 

Producer Sarah Daly speaks to the innovative spirit driving Hex Studios, expressing a commitment to pushing the boundaries of indie horror. "Our films and storytelling defy trends and pop culture norms. We are unapologetic in our love for past cinema, and we aim to champion and resurrect a style of genre filmmaking that is timeless and will be enjoyed for years to come."

The Devil (Richard Pate)

An intriguing figure in the cast, Novarro Ramon, who lives his life as the imagined reincarnation of silent film star Ramon Novarro, describes the project as a "spiritual journey through time," merging the enigmatic charm of silent cinema with modern horror elements.

Novarra Ramon (L) Dorian Todd (C) Sam Barclay (R) Megan Tremethick (Far Right)

As the characters in Black Chariot grapple with supernatural forces, the film promises a gripping descent into darkness. The tension mounts as they try to evade a spectral black Wolseley 15/50, whose red headlights pierce the night, signalling the presence of an eerie, white-clad figure—an embodiment of their worst nightmares.

Laurence R Harvey as Max (Black Chariot)

Shot in striking black and white, Black Chariot marks a new chapter in Hex Studios' oeuvre of retro-inspired horror. Following the success of Amicus Productions’ record-breaking crowdfunding campaign, the team is gearing up for a Kickstarter launch, offering early supporters the chance to secure exclusive Blu-Rays and merchandise.

Megan Tremethick as Nell (Black Chariot)

With its rich homage to classic horror and an uncompromising vision, Black Chariot is set to enthral fans of the genre. As Hex Studios continues to carve out a niche in boutique filmmaking, this latest offering promises to be a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Check out the Kickstarter Campaign at 

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lawriebrewster/black-chariot-by-hex-studios-a-hitchcockian-horror-movie?ref=clipboard-prelaunch

Ayvianna Snow Shines in Dual Roles at FrightFest 2024

British independent film sensation Ayvianna Snow, heralded by Sean Cronin as "fast becoming the British Queen of Horror," is set to captivate audiences with her performances in two highly anticipated films, Bogieville and Derelict. Both films will make their world premiere at the prestigious FrightFest 25th Anniversary event in London this August.

Bogieville: A Tale of Vampires and Intrigue

In Bogieville, Ayvianna takes on the role of Mary, a vampire in an eerie American trailer park. The film, directed by the accomplished British filmmaker and actor Sean Cronin, who also stars as the lead vampire, weaves a gripping narrative. It follows a young couple ensnared by the sinister caretaker Crawford, the guardian of the park's vampiric residents. The setting of a decrepit trailer park filled with blood-thirsty hillbilly vampires promises an atmospheric and chilling experience for horror aficionados.

Cronin's dual role as director and lead vampire adds a unique depth to the film, and Ayvianna's portrayal of Mary is set to be a standout performance in this dark, haunting tale.

Derelict: A Gritty Story of Revenge and Empowerment

Derelict, directed by Jonathan Zaurin, showcases Ayvianna's versatility as she portrays Anna, a drug-addicted woman trapped in an abusive relationship. This harrowing thriller dives into themes of revenge and empowerment, focusing on a daughter's quest for vengeance following her father's murder. The film is deeply rooted in the tradition of British film noir, presenting a series of complex characters and unforeseen repercussions.

Director Jonathan Zaurin commended Ayvianna's dedication to her role: "Ayvianna plays a drug-addicted woman in an abusive relationship. It's a challenging role, raw and very different for her, so it was mind-blowing to see her transform into the character without make-up and special effects—just pure dedication."

A Rising Star in Independent British Cinema

Ayvianna Snow expressed her excitement about working with both directors and being part of these groundbreaking films. “Both Sean and Jonathan are visionary directors, and I am thrilled to be part of this new wave of independent British talent,” she said. Her ability to seamlessly embody such diverse characters demonstrates her exceptional range and commitment to her craft.

With the world premieres of Bogieville and Derelict at FrightFest 2024, Ayvianna Snow is poised to further solidify her reputation in the horror genre. Audiences and critics alike eagerly await her performances, anticipating the unique blend of horror, suspense, and raw emotion she brings to the screen.

As FrightFest celebrates its 25th anniversary, the inclusion of these films highlights the festival's dedication to showcasing innovative and compelling works in the horror genre. Ayvianna Snow’s starring roles in Bogieville and Derelict mark a significant milestone in her career and promise an exciting future for British independent horror cinema.

Follow Ayvianna on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ayviannasnow/

Spotlight: https://www.spotlight.com/5817-5640-0092

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6757384/

COMPETITION: Win Santa Sangre Blu-Ray

Legendary filmmaker Alejandro Jodorowsky (El Topo, The Holy Mountain) is lauded by critics and cult cinema enthusiasts alike for his avant-garde, violently surreal, brilliantly original features. Now, one of his finest films, Santa Sangre, is set for brand-new release that will deliver an experience like never before.

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

Synopsis:

Hailed as “Extraordinary… mind-blowing” by The Guardian, “Visionary and haunting” by Rolling Stone and “A grand work of art, full of symbols and imagery that reach beyond language to something primal and original” according to AV Club, you can forget everything you have ever seen, as this modern masterpiece from director Alejandro Jodorowsky returns like never before, with more than eight hours of archival and all-new Special Features produced exclusively for this collection.

We meet Fenix, a young boy who has grown up in a circus in Mexico, where one day, he witnesses an unimaginably horrific incident… His mother, Concha, insane with rage, wreaks deranged revenge on her cheating husband. The young child, driven insane by the incident, is sent to an asylum where he must spend his childhood trying to overcome the devastating violence.

When the boy (played by the director’s son Axel Jodorowsky) reaches adolescence, he’s released into the care of his unhinged and vengeful mother. This sets off a chain of increasingly crazed and disturbing events that need to be seen to be believed in an outrageously nightmarish trip, that takes us back and forth between its twisted timelines and haunting, hallucinogenic landscapes.

Take a mind-melting journey into the wild, the weird and the severely shocking with Santa Sangre, a true original, must-watch movie.

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

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

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

1. Closing date 05-08-24

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

PREVIEW: Strange Darling (2024 Horror Film)

 

Prepare yourself for a clever and relentless thrill ride that defies audience expectations at every turn. Strange Darling, the latest horror-thriller from the renowned producers of Late Night with the Devil and Barbarian, takes viewers on a wild journey where nothing is as it seems. What starts as a twisted one-night stand quickly spirals into a serial killer’s vicious murder spree, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

Boasting a star-studded cast including Willa Fitzgerald (Reacher, Scream series), Kyle Gallner (Smile, Scream 2022), Ed Begley Jr. (Better Call Saul, A Mighty Wind), and Barbara Hershey (Black Swan, Insidious, The Last Temptation of Christ), Strange Darling delivers standout performances that bring this flawlessly constructed, fresh take on the cat-and-mouse genre to life.

Distributed in the UK and Ireland by Icon Film Distribution, Strange Darling is a Miramax and Spooky Pictures Production. The film is produced by Bill Block, Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Giovanni Ribisi, and Chris Ivan Cevic, with Giovanni Ribisi also serving as the Director of Photography. Spencer Pollard of Icon Film Distribution expressed his excitement about the upcoming release, stating, “We are thrilled (literally) to be releasing Strange Darling in the UK later this Autumn. It is such a clever film that twists and turns itself inside out and leaves the viewer surprised, enthralled, and on the edge of their seat all the way through this glorious piece of cinematic beauty.”

The film has already garnered critical acclaim, with Variety hailing it as “Destined to become a cult classic,” Bloody Disgusting calling it “Jaw-dropping,” Dread Central praising the “Epic performances,” and The Hollywood News giving it four stars, describing it as “A clever modern throwback to the Grindhouse era.”

Strange Darling will have its European Premiere at FrightFest London on 24 August, before hitting UK cinemas from 20th September, courtesy of Icon Film Distribution. This highly anticipated film promises to surprise, enthrall, and leave audiences on the edge of their seats, making it a must-watch for horror-thriller enthusiasts. Don’t miss your chance to experience the suspense and excitement of Strange Darling this Autumn.

Black Water Pictures Announces the World Premiere of "Members Club" at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest

Black Water Pictures has announced that their latest horror comedy, Members Club, will celebrate its world premiere at this year's Pigeon Shrine FrightFest on August 24th. The film, both written and directed by Marc Coleman, showcases an array of prominent British actors.

The cast includes Dean Kilbey (ManFish, Boiling Point (2023), Top Boy), Perry Benson (Love Honour and Obey, This is England, Benidorm), Barbara Smith (EastEnders, Call The Midwife, Casualty), Juliet Cowan (Culprits, Cuckoo, Motherland), Mark Monero (Sid and Nancy, Free Fire, Happy New Year Colin Burstead), Steve Oram (Sightseers, The World's End, Aaaaaaaah!), David Schaal (The Inbetweeners, EastEnders, Down Terrace), Alan Ford (Snatch, Cockneys vs Zombies, Toast of London), Liam Noble (Peep Show, ManFish, Bridgerton), and Peter Andre (Dragged Up Dirty, On The Other Foot).

Members Club tells the story of Wet Dreams, a group of middle-aged male strippers who are struggling with a series of failed performances. As they contemplate disbanding, Alan, the group's optimistic leader, takes control and books them for a mysterious and lucrative gig in rural Essex. However, the night takes a sinister turn when they become entangled in a plot to resurrect a murderous 16th-century witch.

The film promises a journey from the mundane life of middle-aged strippers to an outrageous world filled with talking cheese and pineapple hedgehogs, whiskey-drinking toads, and OnlyFans for pensioners. The highlight is Peter Andre’s most unconventional role to date, contributing to a finale unlike anything seen before on screen.

Marc Coleman, the film's writer and director, expressed his excitement about the premiere: "I’m really excited for the world to see Members Club. We’ve been working on this project from script to screen for over two years, and I can’t wait to show audiences what we’ve been up to. It's a middle-aged ‘Magic Mike’ meets a British ‘From Dusk Till Dawn.’"

Producer Raghav ‘Gav’ Mukerji highlighted the film’s unique concept: "The world has been calling for a stripper-killing witch film for years, and we were brave enough to do it and make it as balls-to-the-walls mental as we could. It's a testament to our director's ability that there's enough substance, heart, and craft in the project to have the audience walk away feeling something too."

Kevin Harvey of Black Water Pictures also shared his enthusiasm: "When Gav and Marc approached Black Water with this project, we jumped at the chance to bring to market this highly original and frankly hilarious riot of a horror comedy."

With its world premiere at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest, Members Club is set to captivate audiences with its blend of horror and comedy, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience.