"Sweet Taste of Souls" (2020) is a fantasy horror film directed by Terry Ross and written by F. Scott Mudgett. The story follows a group of band members who, after stopping at a roadside cafe for a slice of pie, find themselves trapped in the eccentric owner's surreal art collection. Now, they must confront a menacing force that has a hunger for souls. The film features a cast including Honey Lauren as Ellinore, John Salandria as Nate, Mark Valeriano as Kyle, Amber Gaston as Wendy, and Thom Michael Mulligan as Barney, among others.
Prepare for some pulse-racing, heart-pounding High Tension. The fantastic French horror from Alexandre Aja (The Hills Have Eyes (2006), Piranha 3D) gets a brand-new Limited Edition 4K/Blu-ray Dual Edition Box set release from masters in the field Second Sight Films 22 January 2024
And to celebrate we have a great competition and a copy on standard blu-ray to give away.
Synopsis
A new entry to the French extremity movement on its release in 2003, this fearsomely violent slasher stars Cécile de France (The French Dispatch, Around the World in 80 Days) and Maïwenn (One Deadly Summer, The Fifth Element), as two best friends whose sleepover goes shockingly awry. This brutally violent, fear-fuelled cult classic arrives in the Limited Edition and Standard Edition 4K and Blu-ray versions, on 22 January 2024.
Alex (Maïwenn) and Marie’s (Cécile de France) study-weekend takes a savage turn, when a murderous maniac (Philippe Nahon – Irreversible), turns up on their doorstep. As Alex’s family is gruesomely picked off one-by-one, and one of them is taken hostage, a white-knuckle pursuit ensues… as Marie desperately battles to save them both from becoming his next victims.
Brimming with bloody violence and with a wicked twist in its tail, High Tension is one tense, terrifying terror ride you won’t be able to take your eyes off…
The brand-new box set is presented in a rigid slipcase with new artwork by James Neal with both discs featuring the film and bonus features. It comes with a 70-page book featuring new essays and the UHD is presented in HDR10+ and is the only approved HDR version of the film by the director. There’s also a host of brand-new interviews along with archive content.
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.
"It's a Wonderful Knife" presents a captivating deviation from the conventional Christmas film, interweaving horror, comedy, and holiday warmth with a thrilling and gore-infused twist. Directed by Tyler MacIntyre and written by Michael Kennedy, the movie adeptly navigates between chilling kills and heartfelt moments, offering a unique take on the cherished genre.
The plot follows Winnie Carruthers (Jane Widdop), a year after thwarting a psychotic killer on Christmas Eve, who, upon wishing she had never been born, finds herself in an alternate reality. In this nightmarish parallel universe, she discovers the dire consequences of her absence as the killer returns to wreak havoc. Teaming up with the town misfit, played by Justin Long, Winnie strives to identify the murderer and return to her own reality.
A notable feature of the film is its enthusiastic embrace of holiday-themed horror-comedy. "It's a Wonderful Knife" ingeniously twists traditional holiday movie tropes with blood-spattered creativity, providing a viewing experience that is simultaneously shocking and entertaining. Despite its horror elements, the film manages to encapsulate the true spirit of Christmas, blending charm, gore, and a touch of angst in a surprisingly cohesive manner.
The cast, led by Jane Widdop as Winnie, Joel McHale as David Carruthers, and Justin Long as Henry Waters, delivers compelling performances that elevate the overall appeal of the film. Widdop, in particular, shines as the lead, effectively conveying the emotional weight of her character's journey through the gruesome and fantastical events.
While excelling in delivering a captivating mix of horror and comedy, the film may not entirely satisfy hardcore horror enthusiasts seeking genuine scares. "It's a Wonderful Knife" prioritizes its holiday-themed narrative and character dynamics over relentless horror, catering to a broader audience that enjoys a fusion of genres.
In summary, "It's a Wonderful Knife" is a must-watch for those who appreciate a horror film during the Christmas season. With an 8 out of 10 score, the film successfully provides a fresh perspective on the holiday genre, blending festive charm with blood-soaked excitement. Include this in your holiday viewing list for a unique and entertaining cinematic experience.
Kenneth Branagh's 2023 film, "A Haunting in Venice," serves as a sophisticated directorial and production endeavor, where he reprises the role of Hercule Poirot following the 2022 release "Death on the Nile." Inspired loosely by Agatha Christie's "Hallowe'en Party," this installment ventures into unexplored territory, presenting a darker and spookier ambiance.
Set against the backdrop of 1947, the narrative unfolds with Poirot in retirement in Venice. The aging detective becomes entangled in an enigmatic Halloween soirée at the lavish residence of opera singer Rowena Drake (Kelly Reilly). The story weaves a complex tale intertwining wartime trauma, paranormal phenomena, and a perplexing murder that disrupts the Halloween festivities.
Branagh leads an ensemble cast, including Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, and others. While their performances contribute to the film's allure, some actors are unfortunately underutilized, offering a nuanced critique within an otherwise outstanding ensemble.
Cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos, known for his expertise, skillfully crafts the visual tapestry of "A Haunting in Venice." He captures the allure of the city and the palpable haunting atmosphere within the palazzo's twisting walls. The cinematography dances between elegance and eeriness, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
The plot revolves around mystery writer Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey) convincing Poirot to attend a Halloween party and séance at Rowena Drake's palazzo to expose the medium Joyce Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh) as a fraud. The film expertly blends classic whodunit elements with a nuanced infusion of horror, as Poirot navigates the haunted palazzo, revealing layers of supernatural occurrences, wartime trauma, and psychological unraveling.
Despite its strengths, the film struggles in character development, leaving some ensemble members overshadowed by the central mystery. The atmospheric narrative comes at the expense of fully exploring certain characters' backgrounds and motivations. The film misses an opportunity to delve deeper into the nature of spiritualist mediums and the physical séance, potentially benefiting from expert consultation in these aspects.
Where the film excels is in its empathetic portrayal of post-war grief. Characters grapple with haunting memories, and the psychological toll of wartime experiences adds emotional depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a mere murder mystery to a poignant exploration of the human psyche after conflict.
In conclusion, "A Haunting in Venice" is a commendable addition to the Poirot series. While it may not surpass its predecessor, "Death on the Nile," the film explores a darker and more complex side of the iconic detective. With skillful cinematography, a compelling fusion of genres, and a notable cast, despite some underutilization, the movie secures its place as a noteworthy installment in Hercule Poirot's cinematic universe. I give "A Haunting in Venice" a respectable 8 out of 10.
"The Puppetman," directed by Brandon Christensen, unfolds as a captivating 2023 horror film that seamlessly blends psychological thriller and supernatural horror elements.
An undeniable strength of the film lies in its unique premise, centered around Michal (Alyson Gorske), the daughter of a notorious killer who claims to be under the control of an evil force. As mysterious deaths surround Michal, viewers embark on a suspenseful journey to uncover the truth behind her father's assertions and the haunting curse of The Puppetman. The enigmatic nature of the protagonist's intentions adds a layer of curiosity, ensuring the audience remains captivated.
The film excels as a horror experience, featuring intriguing concepts and well-crafted set pieces. As the horror intensifies, the audience is treated to two impressively shot, brutal kill sequences that inject vitality into the narrative. The third act, skillfully overcoming pacing issues, delivers a gripping and satisfying conclusion.
A central theme of a supernatural presence taking control of characters at any moment contributes to a pervasive sense of unpredictability, heightening tension throughout the film effectively.
However, "The Puppetman" is not without its shortcomings. Pacing issues, particularly in the initial hour, may test the patience of some viewers, and occasional lapses in performances hinder complete emotional connection. The film briefly ventures into the realm of a coming-of-age drama, creating a slight disconnection from the horror elements.
While the writing generally proves effective, occasional clunkiness detracts from the overall experience. Notably, the lack of a thorough explanation regarding the Puppetman Killer stands out as a drawback. While the film introduces the events that set the story in motion, it falls short in providing a satisfactory rationale for why the central characters succumbed to the dark forces. Offering more context on what made them susceptible to the malevolent force could have enriched the narrative.
In conclusion, "The Puppetman" emerges as a surprisingly decent horror film with engaging ideas, well-executed set pieces, and a compelling third act that compensates for initial pacing issues. While not flawless, the film effectively maintains tension through its supernatural elements and chilling atmosphere.
I would rate "The Puppetman" a decent 7.5 out of 10.
"Deliver Us," the 2023 religious horror film directed by Lee Roy Kunz and Cru Ennis, presents a chilling and atmospheric exploration of the timeless struggle between good and evil. Earning a solid score of 7.5 out of 10, the film adeptly combines moody cinematography, practical gore effects, and a captivating premise to craft an engaging viewing experience.
Set in a Russian convent, Sister Yulia faces the unexpected revelation of an immaculate conception, leading to the prophecy of her twins embodying the Messiah and the Antichrist. In response to the threat from the Vox Dei sect, Father Fox and Cardinal Russo embark on a perilous journey to protect Yulia, eventually finding refuge in Estonia at the estate of Laura, the priest's fiancée. However, their sanctuary is disrupted by the malevolent twin's sinister actions.
The film skillfully intertwines elements of religious horror, psychological tension, and supernatural occurrences, guiding Sister Yulia, Father Fox (Lee Roy Kunz), and Cardinal Russo (Alexander Siddig) through the treacherous path set by the Vox Dei sect. Notably, "Deliver Us" distinguishes itself by eschewing typical jump scares, opting for a deliberate and atmospheric approach that instills a pervasive sense of unease.
The cast, led by Lee Roy Kunz and Maria Vera Ratti as Father Fox and Sister Yulia, delivers commendable performances, fostering a strong emotional impact as the narrative explores themes of faith, family, and destiny. However, the film is somewhat hindered by the absence of a formidable antagonist, affecting the overall narrative impact.
Visually, "Deliver Us" impresses with its stunning backdrop and cinematography, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of the film. The practical gore effects are executed with finesse, contributing a visceral and unsettling quality to the horror elements. While the character development may fall short, the film maintains audience engagement through its cinematic beauty and promising premise.
While "Deliver Us" doesn't necessarily break new ground in the religious horror genre, it successfully captures the essence of classics like "The Omen" while introducing its own unique twists. With effective atmospheric tension, visually striking scenes, and a blend of horror elements, the film earns its 7.5 out of 10 rating. Despite some character development shortcomings and the lack of a formidable antagonist, "Deliver Us" stands as a worthwhile addition to the horror genre, offering a satisfying and chilling experience for fans of the macabre.
In 'The Killer' by David Fincher, audiences are thrust into the compelling world of a seasoned assassin, brilliantly brought to life by the talented Michael Fassbender. The film skillfully weaves a narrative that captivates viewers with its calculated precision and high-stakes tension.
Under Fincher's expert direction, the film maintains a top-tier quality, complemented by an exceptional cast that crafts a clever and engaging story. Fassbender's portrayal of the lead assassin adds depth, offering a chilling exploration into the psyche of a character navigating the perilous realm of his profession.
The plot unfolds around a meticulously planned sniper job in a Parisian hotel gone awry, as the assassin mistakenly targets the wrong person. This misstep sets off a chain of perilous events, transforming the hunter into the hunted. In his quest for truth and revenge, the assassin confronts his handler, played by Charles Parnell, unraveling a web of betrayal.
Navigating a hazardous path to uncover those behind the attempts on his life, the assassin faces a diverse array of adversaries, each encounter laden with tension. The film's high-stakes confrontations unfold in various locations, leading to a thought-provoking showdown with the initial client, portrayed by Arliss Howard.
Tilda Swinton and a strong supporting cast deliver standout performances, painting a vivid and intricate picture of the assassin's world, blending deception and strategic maneuvers.
While 'The Killer' provides a tension-filled experience, some viewers may find the scarcity of intense action sequences and occasional predictability in the plot somewhat lacking. Nevertheless, Fincher's masterful direction, Fassbender's gripping portrayal, and the overall execution establish 'The Killer' as a compelling addition to the thriller genre.
