Interview with Ruth Ann Evans by David Kempf

1. Tell us how you became interested in writing.

I have been interested in writing since elementary school when I would write little stories and poems and bombard my teachers with them. I have always loved writing essays for school too. However, as an adult, I never had any ideas for fiction, which was what I really wanted to write, until I stumbled upon the idea of horror. From there, everything just started to flow.


2. Do you prefer short stories or novels?

I write short. I build my characters efficiently and have fast-paced plots. I definitely prefer it that way because it keeps writing exciting. My longest novella was about 22,000 words. Someday I may write a novel, but if not, I am okay with that. I also prefer to read short. If I put a book down, I may not come back to it, so I love a one-sitting read.


3. How would you classify the genre of writing in your work?

I call it extreme emotional horror. My characters deal with real-life horrors cranked up to 100. I have a lot of body horror elements in my writing and a good dose of medical horror as well.


4. What is your average writing workday like?

I like to write about once a week. I really focus on word count because it motivates me a lot. I usually write in short bursts, little sprints that lead up to a thousand or a few thousand words. If I am not into it, I give myself a break. I want writing to stay fun. I write a lot in my head while driving.


5. What inspires your stories?

Real-life fears. I am not an anxious person, but I am someone who thinks about the worst-case scenario a lot. My early horror stories were about bad things happening to children because, as a mother, that was my greatest fear. I write extreme medical horror because I have a lot of medical issues in my life and a lot of fear related to that. Writing about these things makes me feel less alone. It makes me feel like something positive is coming from my struggles.


6. What are your favorite horror books?

I love Tiny Nightmares. It was the first horror book I read when I was getting started in writing horror. My favorite novel is The Shining. I love adventure horror, like Whalefall and The Terror. I also really like horror that is just below the surface, like Rosemary’s Baby.


7. What are your favorite horror movies?

I love found footage horror, so obviously The Blair Witch Project. Creep was so scary and cool. As Above, So Below is another favorite. My favorite classic horror movie is the same as my favorite horror book, The Shining.


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

I am not going to pretend to know. It seems like it is mostly individual.


9. Why do you think horror books and novels remain so popular?

Life is hard. Horror books are intense enough to grab and keep our attention away from all of the challenges we deal with day to day. Horror is exciting, and connecting with other people who like horror is fun. Dark things are fun. I think it may just be that simple.


10. What are your future projects?

I am working on a new anthology. It is going to be childbirth horror, and it is going to be intense. The call is open right now until December 23.

Amazon Page - https://amzn.to/49aM0LS

COMPETITION: Win Speak No Evil (SHUDDER Original) - On DVD

The original Speak No Evil garnered praise and awards galore on its release in 2022, and now this unnerving, dread-inducing and unrelentingly gripping social satire of a chiller gets its home release this winter.

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on DVD.

Synopsis:

One family accepts an invitation to the rural home of another they met on vacation, only to find their lives altered in unexpected, deeply horrifying ways.

Speak No Evil is “disturbingly fascinating” (RogerEbert.com) and “one of the most cunningly depraved horror films in years” featuring “one of the most horrific and harrowingly-affecting moments in recent cinema history” (Yahoo! Movies) (Indiewire)

This is the shocking original that James Watkins’ recent Speak No Evil is based on.

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Z3h3EU

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Speak No Evil?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

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

1. Closing date 09-12-24

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: Nosferatu – The Real Story: Unveiling the Legend That Refused to Die

 

Get ready to explore the haunting origins of one of cinema’s most iconic horror films with Nosferatu – The Real Story. As Robert Eggers’ much-anticipated reimagining of Nosferatu prepares to hit cinemas, this gripping new documentary dives into the dark and tangled history of the 1922 classic that changed the face of horror forever. Directed by Robin Bextor, the mind behind Twisters: The Real Story and The Exorcist Untold, this must-watch exploration of terror and resilience arrives on UK digital platforms on 16 December 2024, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

The story of FW Murnau’s Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror is as eerie as the film itself. Shot in 1921, it was an unauthorised adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, a creative decision that would almost lead to its destruction. Florence Balcombe, Stoker’s widow, filed a now-famous copyright lawsuit demanding every copy of the film be destroyed. For a moment, it seemed like Nosferatu was doomed to disappear forever. But, like its monstrous villain, it survived, rising from near extinction to become a cornerstone of cinematic horror.

Over a century later, Nosferatu remains a chilling masterpiece, its shadowy visuals and groundbreaking techniques influencing generations of filmmakers. From creature design to the very language of horror, its influence can be felt everywhere. In this documentary, Bextor dives deep into the film’s incredible story, uncovering the struggles that nearly erased it and the legacy that has kept it alive. With expert interviews, rare archival material, and fascinating insights, Nosferatu – The Real Story captures the unstoppable force of an artwork that refused to die.

Timed perfectly to coincide with the release of Eggers’ modern reimagining, this documentary offers a fresh perspective on the enduring power of Nosferatu. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of classic horror or new to the film’s dark allure, this is a story that will leave you enthralled. Nosferatu – The Real Story arrives on UK digital platforms on 16 December 2024, ready to shed new light on a legend that continues to cast its spell.

PREVIEW: #AMFAD: All My Friends Are Dead (2024 Film)

Get ready, horror fans, because #AMFAD: All My Friends Are Dead is about to deliver a bloody good time. This isn’t just another slasher film. It’s a thrilling mix of old-school horror vibes and sharp social media satire, packed with plenty of gore and dark humour. Directed by Marcus Dunstan, the mastermind behind some of the Saw films, this movie takes everything you love about ‘90s slashers and gives it a fresh, modern twist.

The cast is full of familiar faces. Jade Pettyjohn from Little Fires Everywhere leads the way, alongside social media star JoJo Siwa, stepping away from her usual bubbly image to take on a much darker role. Jennifer Ens, Justin Derickson, Ali Fumiko Whitney, and Julian Haig round out the group of characters you’ll cheer for… until they’re picked off one by one.

The story follows Sarah and her influencer friends as they stop at a holiday rental on their way to a music festival. It’s all selfies, hashtags, and partying, but what they don’t realise is that the house is rigged with hidden cameras. Things take a gruesome turn when a masked killer shows up with a personal vendetta and some seriously twisted ideas for revenge. Each murder is more elaborate than the last, with kills that’ll make even the most seasoned horror fans squirm.

As secrets start to come out, including a dark one tied to JoJo Siwa’s character, Sarah and her remaining friends must figure out how to survive. But with the killer always one step ahead, their chances are looking slim. Critics are already raving about the film’s creativity and gore, calling the kills inventive and comparing the carnage to the Saw franchise.

If you love blood-soaked horror with a wicked sense of humour, this is the film for you. #AMFAD: All My Friends Are Dead is out on digital from 18 November and is perfect for a movie night. Just make sure to check your house for hidden cameras before you press play!

Out Now on Apple TV - https://apple.co/3ZbGl4X

COMPETITION: Win Cuckoo on DVD

Dazzler Media presents the bold and terrifying horror, Cuckoo, on Blu-ray and DVD from 25th November!

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on DVD

Synopsis:

17-year-old Gretchen reluctantly leaves her American home to live with her father, who has just moved into a resort in the German Alps with his new family. Arriving at their future residence, something doesn't seem right in this tranquil vacation paradise. Gretchen is plagued by strange noises and bloody visions, until she discovers a shocking secret that also concerns her own family!  

 

Starring Hunter Schafer (Euphoria), Dan Stevens (Abigail) and Jessica Henwick (The Royal Hotel), this is an unsettling cult gem for horror fans everywhere, from talented new writer-director Tilman Singer (Luz).

Dazzler Media presents Cuckoo on Blu-ray and DVD from 25th November 

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Oe2r0A

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Cuckoo?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

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

1. Closing date 02-12-24

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.

Warren Dudley on Indie Filmmaking, Horror, and Football Passion: A Journey with 'FRIGHT'

With the release of his latest film FRIGHT on Amazon Prime (https://amzn.to/4etlwqi), writer and director Warren Dudley opens up about the thrills and challenges of indie filmmaking, his love for horror, and his lifelong passion for football. His journey has been a blend of creativity, determination, and a knack for telling compelling stories on limited budgets, all of which is evident in FRIGHT, a haunting period piece that has already captured the imagination of horror fans.

FRIGHT premiered at FrightFest 2024, where it was compared to horror classics like The Haunting and The Innocents. Dudley describes the premiere as “the usual festival mix of nervous excitement and terror,” saying it was the first time the cast and crew saw the final version. “I was really hoping they’d love how it turned out,” he recalls. The pressure didn’t end there, as the audience included experienced horror fans who had already binged several films that weekend. But as Dudley nervously awaited reactions, he was overwhelmed by the positive feedback from both fans and critics, making the train ride back to Brighton, where he read glowing reviews, a particularly memorable one. “Horror fans and filmmakers truly are some of the loveliest, most supportive people in the industry,” he reflects, grateful for the unique camaraderie of the horror community.

The film, which takes place in 1930s Britain, follows a young woman struggling with severe agoraphobia. It’s an unusual setting for a horror film, but Dudley found it an exciting challenge. Today, he notes, online platforms have made it easier to research and portray sensitive topics authentically. He recalls watching a powerful video of a woman with agoraphobia, whose mother desperately tried to help her face her fears, an account that inspired one of the film’s most intense scenes. Dudley hopes people with agoraphobia will see themselves in the film and feel represented.

Finding the right actress for the lead role was also a turning point. Gwyneth Evans plays Emily, and Dudley discovered her in a last-minute twist. “I’d almost cast someone else,” he remembers, “but just before the deadline, Gwyneth’s tape landed in my inbox. It sounds like a cliché, but I knew she was the one.” The instinct paid off, with critics praising Evans’ performance as one that could belong to the golden age of cinema, alongside co-star Jill Priest, who plays her mother. For Dudley, hearing critics voice what he’d felt on set was a rewarding experience.

Asked about his own fears, Dudley admits he’s as much a horror fan as a filmmaker. “I often find myself, around 11:30 at night, deciding to put on a good horror movie, or even a bad one,” he laughs. Dudley has a soft spot for horror classics from the 1970s, like The Omen and Rosemary’s Baby, which he considers near-perfect. The 1980s film An American Werewolf in London also holds a special place in his heart, having been his favorite horror movie growing up.

Before FRIGHT, Dudley gained acclaim with Six Years Gone, a deeply personal story about a mother’s search for her missing daughter. The idea for the film stemmed from his own fears as a father, when his daughter Ellie was young. Writing the story was his way of channeling those emotions, creating a powerful thriller that was widely praised despite being made on a small budget. Ellie, now sixteen, even contributed illustrations for FRIGHT, adding a personal touch that brought things full circle for Dudley.

The Bromley Boys

Dudley’s journey into filmmaking actually began with football. In 2012, he was asked to adapt Dave Roberts’ memoir The Bromley Boys, a project that came about unexpectedly. Dudley had worked with an actor-turned-producer named TJ Herbert on a football mockumentary years earlier, and it was Herbert who invited him to take on The Bromley Boys. The resulting film became a cult hit, especially among non-league football fans in the UK and US. Dudley reflects on how meaningful the project became for him, as both a tribute to his love for football and a way to honor Roberts, who passed away last year.

Football has been a lifelong passion for Dudley, and he can trace it back to when his dad took him to see Brighton FC play at The Goldstone Ground when he was eight. He’s been an ardent fan ever since, through the highs and lows, but nothing compares to seeing Brighton line up against European giants Ajax, a moment that moved him to tears. His love of football has also inspired other projects, like Seaside Town, a comedy series set in his hometown of Newhaven. The series, which features local talent, was part of a community effort to revitalize the area, and Dudley is proud of the way it’s helped support his hometown.

Through his production company, Sixty6Films, Dudley has built a reputation for creating high-quality films on small budgets, something he’s passionate about. He appreciates the freedom of indie filmmaking, which allows him to work with tight-knit crews and bring his vision to life without the pressures of large studio projects. Starting with just an idea and a blank document, he loves arriving at a festival with a finished film in hand. “That creative process is incredibly addictive,” he says.

For aspiring filmmakers, Dudley advises focusing on telling big stories within small spaces. His approach with FRIGHT relied on a strong script, three gifted actors, and one atmospheric location. He believes that constraints can inspire creativity, citing his 2016 film Cage as another example. He’s already thinking about his next project, hinting that it will stay within the horror genre and, once again, take place in a small, confined setting.

With FRIGHT now available on Amazon Prime, Warren Dudley’s work reflects his passion for storytelling, resourcefulness, and love of horror and football. It’s a journey built on creativity, resilience, and a deep understanding of how to captivate audiences, whether they’re sitting in a festival theater or watching at home.

Out Now https://amzn.to/4etlwqi

FILM REVIEW: Alien: Romulus (2024 Movie) - Starring Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson and Archie Renaux

Alien: Romulus marks a gripping and atmospheric return to the Alien franchise, successfully blending the iconic tension and dread of the original films with inventive new twists. Directed by Fede Álvarez, this installment captures the claustrophobic terror that defined the series while introducing fresh elements that distinguish it from its predecessors. Set between Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986), Romulus explores familiar territory yet remains engaging, particularly due to its intense third act and a well-executed homage to Ridley Scott's original vision.

The story follows a group of young space colonizers who stumble upon a derelict Weyland-Yutani research station, where they encounter the dreaded xenomorphs. The premise is straightforward but effective, guiding the audience through a series of heart-pounding sequences as the group is systematically picked off by the alien creatures. The film effectively utilizes the chilling isolation of space, immersing viewers in a world where survival is never assured.

Álvarez's direction is a significant strength, as he understands the elements that made the first film a masterpiece of suspense. He replicates the slow, methodical buildup of tension, punctuated by moments of brutal horror, demonstrating his admiration for the original films. The score also stands out, contributing a fresh yet familiar edge to the unnerving atmosphere and intensifying the pervasive feeling of dread.

The cast delivers strong performances across the board, with Cailee Spaeny shining as Rain, the film's central character. Her dynamic with David Jonsson's android Andy, who has shifting loyalties, adds depth to the narrative. Their relationship serves as a human anchor amidst the chaos, providing emotional moments that elevate the film beyond mere survival horror.

However, Alien: Romulus does tread familiar ground. Elements such as facehuggers, chestbursters, and lurking xenomorphs have been seen before, and some moments may feel predictable to longtime fans of the series. Nevertheless, Álvarez's careful handling of these tropes ensures that the film never feels like a lazy rehash. Instead, it pays tribute to the franchise's roots while incorporating enough innovation to keep it engaging for both newcomers and seasoned fans.

Visually, the film excels in portraying the decaying space station, with impressive set designs that evoke the haunting, industrial aesthetic of the original. The well-choreographed combat scenes are a welcome addition, and the film's final act is packed with thrilling action, culminating in a climax that is both shocking and satisfying.

Overall, Alien: Romulus is a solid and exciting addition to the franchise. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it delivers precisely what fans crave: a tense, visually stunning, and intense ride through space horror. With its fresh score, strong performances, and thoughtful direction, it stands as a worthy successor to the 1979 classic. Even if some horror elements feel familiar, the film's execution more than compensates for this. It’s a strong return to form for the series, earning a well-deserved 8.5 out of 10.

NEWS: "PIPER" (2024): A Wickedly Creepy Fantasy Unleashes the Dark Side of Children's Legends

 

Prepare to face your darkest fears this November with Piper, a chilling new horror thriller from director Anthony Waller, which will be available on digital platforms from November 18, 2024. Following its world premiere at FrightFest 2023, this terrifying reimagining of a children's legend takes a sinister twist into fantasy horror, with Elizabeth Hurley delivering a performance that will make you question the stories you tell your children.

The film follows Liz (Elizabeth Hurley) and her daughter Amy (Mia Jenkins), who have moved to a small town in Germany in search of a fresh start. However, as they begin to settle into their new home, things quickly take a dark and unsettling turn. A local girl dies under mysterious and horrifying circumstances, and Liz begins to realise that there is something far more sinister lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly peaceful community.

As the tension rises, Liz uncovers a terrifying secret from her past that has inadvertently awakened an ancient and vengeful spirit known as The Piper. This evil entity, seeking redemption for long-forgotten wrongs, targets children to punish the parents who have sinned. With Amy now in grave danger, Liz must confront the dark legacy she has long tried to bury.

In the midst of this horror, Amy encounters Luca (Jack Stewart), a mysterious and seemingly kind stranger who may hold the key to saving her from The Piper's clutches. But with time running out, can they stop the evil force before it claims another victim?

Anthony Waller, renowned for his work on Mute Witness, expertly combines folklore, supernatural horror and psychological suspense, creating a tale that is as emotionally gripping as it is terrifying. Piper explores the consequences of past actions and the terrifying cost of sins long forgotten, where the mistakes of the parents haunt their children in ways beyond imagination.

With a talented cast that includes Tara Fitzgerald and Robert Daws, Piper promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, blending myth and reality into a nightmare that will linger long after the credits roll.

Piper is available on digital from November 18, 2024. If you are looking for a haunting and thought-provoking horror, let the Piper play on.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3YWUtPE

FILM REVIEW: Subservience (2024 Movie) - Starring Megan Fox and Michele Morrone

 

Subservience is a sci-fi thriller that explores familiar themes but manages to deliver solid entertainment, even if it doesn't break new ground. Directed by S.K. Dale, the film examines the dangers of advanced artificial intelligence, a topic that has been tackled many times before. What distinguishes this film is Megan Fox's performance as Alice, a humanoid android whose initial role as a caregiver takes a darker turn as she becomes unsettlingly obsessed with the family she was created to assist.

Megan Fox gives a compelling performance, effectively balancing Alice's robotic detachment with her increasingly menacing behavior. Her portrayal injects tension and unease into an otherwise familiar narrative. Michele Morrone plays Nick, a father trying to keep his family together, serving as a solid counterpart, although much of the film's suspense hinges on Fox's performance.

While Subservience embraces the well-trodden narrative of AI gone rogue, it does so with enough energy to keep viewers engaged. The film doesn't aim to provide groundbreaking insights into the genre, which may be where it stumbles. It lacks the freshness of films like Ex Machina or Her, leaving it feeling somewhat derivative. The premise of an AI gaining self-awareness and turning against its creators is well-worn territory, and the film doesn’t introduce any new angles to challenge these familiar themes.

The action sequences, particularly as Alice becomes more aggressive in her pursuit of Nick's affection, are well-paced and thrilling. The film effectively builds suspense, especially as Alice's manipulations grow more sinister, such as her subtle yet malicious attempts to endanger Maggie, Nick's wife, following her recovery from heart surgery. The tension reaches a climax in a hospital showdown, but the outcome still feels predictable.

Visually, the film plays to its strengths, showcasing Fox's striking appearance to great effect. However, at times it leans into the more superficial aspects of her character, which some viewers may find gratuitous while others may see it as part of the film’s glossy thriller aesthetic. The supporting cast, including Madeline Zima as Maggie and Matilda Firth as their daughter Isla, perform well, though they are somewhat overshadowed by Fox's commanding presence as Alice.

Where Subservience falters is in its lack of originality. The plot is serviceable but feels recycled, missing an opportunity to delve into the ethical and philosophical dilemmas surrounding AI. Instead, it opts for a more straightforward thriller approach, which limits its potential for exploring more complex themes.

Ultimately, Subservience is an enjoyable, if somewhat predictable, sci-fi thriller. While it doesn't break new ground, Megan Fox's captivating performance as Alice keeps it engaging. For fans of the genre, it serves as a solid, if unremarkable, addition to the growing collection of AI-themed films. Although it may not leave a lasting impression, it fulfills its purpose as an entertaining piece of escapism, providing enough tension and intrigue to maintain interest throughout its runtime. I would rate Subservience a fair 7 out of 10.

Out Now on Apple TV https://apple.co/4dsDZCE

FILM REVIEW: The Crow (2024 Movie) Starring Bill Skarsgård

Rupert Sanders' 2024 reboot of The Crow offers a fresh and modern interpretation of James O'Barr's beloved graphic novel, skillfully blending dark fantasy with action-driven vengeance. Bill Skarsgård steps into the iconic role of Eric Draven, a man brought back from the dead to avenge the brutal murders of himself and his girlfriend, Shelly, played by FKA twigs. The film explores deep themes of love, loss, and retribution, with Skarsgård delivering a disturbingly compelling performance that captures Eric's pain, fury, and transformation with chilling intensity.

The plot expands upon the original story, delving into Eric and Shelly's troubled past and the bond they share, forged through trauma. Shelly's tragic fate unfolds when she uncovers incriminating evidence of crime lord Vincent Roeg's dark history, portrayed chillingly by Danny Huston. FKA twigs brings a blend of vulnerability and strength to Shelly, creating a romance that adds more emotional weight than in the original film. However, their connection can also slow the pacing at times, with a slightly leaner runtime potentially enhancing the film's momentum, as it feels about 20 minutes too long and some scenes lose their impact.

When The Crow hits its stride, it truly soars. The action sequences are brutal, relentless, and masterfully choreographed, culminating in a breathtaking third-act climax set in an opera house. This scene is a cinematic spectacle, gory, intense, and unforgettable, making it worth the price of admission alone. The expertly shot, edited, and staged violence leaves a lasting impression, particularly for fans of visceral action who will appreciate the unflinching combat that complements the dark, atmospheric world Sanders creates.

Despite its strengths, the film struggles to escape comparisons with the 1994 classic. While it stands as a solid reboot for those unfamiliar with the original, longtime fans may find it lacking the same raw emotional punch. Though not a bad film, the haunting essence of Brandon Lee's portrayal of Eric casts a long shadow that Skarsgård, despite his commendable performance, never fully overcomes.

The Crow successfully reimagines the tragic love story at its core, but it occasionally falters in pacing. The central romance, while more developed, can slow down what might have been a tighter, more impactful narrative. Nevertheless, with an incredible opera house sequence, stellar action choreography, and Skarsgård's standout performance, The Crow remains a solid, if imperfect, reboot. It's worth seeing for its visual and emotional intensity, earning a respectable 7 out of 10.

Out In Cinemas now and on Digital at https://apple.co/4gDM3DF