PREVIEW: Scarlet Winter (2025 Film) - Starring Gregory Waits and Sophie Moshofsky

Icy suspense and relentless paranoia await in Scarlet Winter, a bone-chilling thriller set to make its UK digital debut this February, courtesy of Miracle Media. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Munjal Yagnik in his feature debut, this gripping mystery has already garnered critical acclaim on the global festival circuit and promises to leave audiences questioning everything they think they know.

The story plunges into chaos from its opening moments, following Mark, played by Gregory Waits, whose ordinary life takes a horrifying turn when he awakens to a nightmare. With the lifeless body of his mistress beside him and a bloodied knife in his hand, Mark’s world collapses into panic and self-doubt. Convinced of his guilt but desperate for escape, he seeks help from his friend Richie, portrayed by Ryan Hope Travis, to dispose of the body and cover his tracks.

What begins as a desperate act of concealment soon spirals into a labyrinth of paranoia and suspicion. As Mark retraces his steps, he becomes haunted by the possibility that he has been set up, and the real killer could still be at large. With his trust eroding and those closest to him falling under suspicion, the tension mounts in a series of shocking revelations and desperate attempts to uncover the truth.

The cast delivers a powerful blend of intensity and vulnerability, with Sophie Moshofsky’s enigmatic turn as the ill-fated mistress and Ryan Hope Travis’s magnetic performance as Mark’s increasingly suspicious confidant adding layers of complexity to the tale. Yagnik’s precise direction captures the icy atmosphere of the film’s chilling narrative, with every frame amplifying the tension and unease.

Scarlet Winter is a high-stakes psychological puzzle that keeps viewers guessing until its final moments. With its UK release set for 10 February, prepare for a thriller that grips tightly and refuses to let go. This is a winter mystery you won’t want to miss.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/4jiUwxm

PREVIEW: Play Dead (2025 Film) A Gruesome Survival Horror That Will Keep You on Edge

 

Horror fans should prepare for a nightmarish experience with Play Dead, the latest terrifying film from director Carlos Goitia. With a screenplay by Gonzalo Mellid and Camilo Zaffora, the film throws viewers into a relentless survival story where death might not be the worst fate. Produced by Nicolás Onetti, known for his work on What the Waters Left Behind, this film promises an unflinching descent into terror. 

Play Dead stars Paula Brasca, Catalina Motto, Luca Espindola, and a talented ensemble cast who bring this chilling tale to life.

The story follows Alison, played by Paula Brasca, who wakes up badly injured in a dark and cryptic basement. She quickly realises she is surrounded by corpses and must use every ounce of her wits to avoid the same fate. 

With no way out, she makes the desperate choice to play dead, hoping to blend in and escape unnoticed. But as she listens to the horrors unfolding above her, she discovers a disturbing ritual is taking place. The more she learns, the clearer it becomes that she is in unimaginable danger. 

Drawing inspiration from horror classics like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Don’t Breathe, and The Collector, Play Dead delivers a relentless mix of suspense and gruesome horror. The film’s claustrophobic setting and visceral tension make it a terrifying watch, ensuring audiences will be on edge from start to finish.

Coming Soon

COMPETITION: Win V/H/S/Beyond (Shudder Original) on DVD

V/H/S/Beyond, the new addition to the bloodcurdling V/H/S horror anthology, arriving on Blu-ray, DVD and digital 10 February courtesy of Acorn Media International.

Synopsis:

The horror anthology features a collection of wickedly watchable new tales of terror, from a host of renowned directors. These include Jay Cheel (How to Build a Time Machine, Cursed Films), Jordan Downey (The Head Hunter, ThanksKilling), Virat Pal (Night of the Bride, Recapture), Justin Martinez (V/H/S, Southbound), Christian Long (Lady of the Manor) and Justin Long (Barbarian, Tusk), and Kate Siegel (The Haunting of Hill House, Hush) who each bring their own spooky flare to these twisted tomes. Respected filmmaker/screenwriter Mike Flanagan (The Haunting of Hill House, Doctor Sleep, Absentia) also lends his writing talents.

In Stork, directed by Jordan Downey, a special police unit are sent to a derelict house to investigate a string of baby disappearances. The team realise they are not alone in this house of horror when they discover an attic full of babies’ cradles and a sinister stork-like creature singing lullabies.

It’s quiet on set in Virat Pal’s Dream Girl, as two paparazzi sneak onto the set of the next Bollywood hit in the hope of getting some exclusive footage. However, when the lead actress reveals her famed face is in fact a mask, an electric haze of chaos and destruction ensues.

A man experiences a truly unforgettable birthday in Live and Let Die, directed by Justin Martinez. His skydiving adventure takes a terrible turn after a UFO is spotted flying around their plane and his celebrations quickly turns into a bloody disaster.

Directed by Christian Long and Justin Long, Fur Babies sees an animal rights group get more than they bargained for when they visit a doggy daycare and discover a torturous basement of terror hiding deep under the fluffy facade.

Pre-Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/40zRgFa

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Who directs Dream Girl in V/H/S/Beyond?

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NYX UK Unleashes February Frights with a Haunting Lineup

 

By Jon Donnis

NYX UK is delivering a terrifying lineup this February, packed with cult classics, gruesome horror and supernatural chills. Leading the charge is the Channel premiere of BIG BAD WOLVES, the critically acclaimed Israeli psychological thriller from Aharon Keshales and Navot Papushado. Blending dark comedy with an unsettling narrative, the film arrives on Friday 21 February at 9pm, offering a gripping and thought-provoking experience.

BIG BAD WOLVES

The month is stacked with ten other Channel premieres, including two of Herschell Gordon Lewis’s notorious splatter flicks, TWO THOUSAND MANIACS! on Monday 24 February at 9pm and THE WIZARD OF GORE on Wednesday 19 February at 9pm. Fans of vintage horror can also enjoy PARASITE on Wednesday 26 February at 9pm, the cult sci-fi horror from Charles Band, and Bob Clarke’s quirky undead gem CHILDREN SHOULDN’T PLAY WITH DEAD THINGS on Sunday 23 February at 9pm. Rounding out the roster of gruesome classics is Jeff Lieberman’s SQUIRM, a nightmarish tale of carnivorous worms, airing on Friday 28 February at 9pm.

For lovers of European horror, there are two unmissable Channel premieres. On Friday 14 February at 9pm, Jesús Franco’s erotic horror LORNA THE EXORCIST makes its debut, while on Thursday 20 February at 9pm, Lucio Fulci’s unnerving supernatural thriller THE PSYCHIC takes centre stage.

PARASITE

Classic British sci-fi horror is also on offer, with Val Guest’s QUATERMASS 2 and THE ABOMINABLE SNOWMAN featuring as part of FrightFest Saturday Night Scares, presented by Alan Jones. Adding to the mix is the eerie supernatural horror THE NORLIS TAPES, directed by Dan Curtis, which airs on Thursday 27 February at 9pm.

Thursday nights at 7pm continue to bring the mischievous horror-comedy GALVASTON’S CAVERN OF CREEPS. This darkly entertaining series follows the antics of Galvaston, a sarcastic demon scheming to end the world, and his unexpected friendship with Jack, an endearingly clueless horror enthusiast. The series continues with Channel premieres of two beloved 50s creature features, Roger Corman’s THE WASP WOMAN and Fred F. Sears’ THE GIANT CLAW.

With a mix of shocking gore, eerie atmospheres and nostalgic horror fun, NYX UK’s February schedule is set to keep fans of the genre thoroughly entertained.

REVIEW: Venom: The Last Dance (2024 Film) - Starring Tom Hardy

 

Venom: The Last Dance serves as a heartfelt and satisfying conclusion to the trilogy that began with Venom in 2018. Written and directed by Kelly Marcel, this final chapter manages to combine chaotic fun with surprising emotional depth. Tom Hardy delivers yet another standout performance as both Eddie Brock and Venom. It's remarkable how he brings such distinct personalities to life with ease. The back-and-forth banter between Eddie and Venom, alongside their genuine moments of connection, remains the heart of the series.

The story picks up with Eddie and Venom on the run, trying to clear Eddie's name after being framed for murder. Their journey takes them from a dive bar in Mexico to Area 51, with plenty of madness along the way. Meanwhile, they’re hunted by a terrifying new villain, the Xenophage. This creature brings genuine tension to the plot and ties into the larger Marvel universe, adding a layer of complexity involving Knull, the ancient symbiote creator. The stakes have never felt higher.

What makes the film so enjoyable is its ability to balance high-stakes action with offbeat humor. The dynamic between Eddie and Venom is as hilarious as ever. Whether they’re arguing over survival tactics or getting into absurd situations, their comedy works every time. One of the standout moments is when Venom unexpectedly enjoys himself on the dance floor, which is bizarre but oddly touching. These quirky moments help keep the film grounded, even as the story darkens and becomes more intricate.

The supporting cast is also solid. Chiwetel Ejiofor brings weight to the role of Rex Strickland, a determined government operative, while Juno Temple adds layers to Dr. Teddy Paine, a scientist haunted by her past. Rhys Ifans shines as Martin Moon, a hippie who offers both comic relief and unexpected depth.

The action sequences are exciting but never overwhelming. From an intense mid-air battle to the climactic showdown at Area 51, each action scene is inventive and thrilling. Marcel manages to keep the visuals dynamic while ensuring that the emotional stakes remain at the forefront. At its heart, the story isn't just about explosions and aliens, it’s about loyalty, sacrifice, and the unlikely friendship between Eddie and Venom.

That said, the film does have a few rough spots. The plot can feel a bit crowded at times, with so many different elements that it occasionally stumbles. Some of the lore around Knull and the Codex might be confusing for viewers unfamiliar with the comics, adding some complexity that could alienate casual fans.

Despite these minor issues, Venom: The Last Dance is an enjoyable ride. It's a bittersweet farewell to a series that has consistently surprised with its mix of humor, strangeness, and heart. The ending is especially emotional, wrapping things up in a satisfying way while leaving room for future Marvel stories.

Overall, the film is entertaining, funny, and packed with heart. Tom Hardy gives one of his best performances yet, and Kelly Marcel nails the balance of humor and action that has made this series so unique. I’d rate it a strong 8.5 out of 10. It makes me want to revisit the first two films, even though I’m sad to see Eddie and Venom’s journey come to an end.

Out Now in cinemas and on Digital

Apple TV - https://apple.co/41uSzqQ

NYX UK Brings Fear and Celebration to February with Women in Horror Week and Zombie Week

 

NYX UK is gearing up for a thrilling February with a packed programme celebrating the horror genre. From February 10 to February 16, Women in Horror Week shines a spotlight on the extraordinary impact of women in horror, presenting a lineup of films that are as empowering as they are terrifying. Meanwhile, Zombie Week, running from February 3 to February 9, offers a deep dive into the undead with iconic films that have defined the zombie subgenre.

Women in Horror Week kicks off on February 10 with Axelle Carolyn’s debut feature, Soulmate (2013). This gothic ghost story explores grief and the supernatural with an emotionally charged narrative, haunting cinematography, and a score that lingers long after the final frame. Marina de Van’s Dark Touch (2013) follows on February 11, a chilling tale of trauma and psychological horror that blends supernatural elements with poignant social commentary.

Dark Touch

On February 12, Ida Lupino’s The Hitch-Hiker (1953) takes centre stage. A groundbreaking noir thriller, it solidified Lupino’s legacy as the first woman to direct a film in the genre, delivering a tense road movie that remains as gripping as ever. The Soska Sisters’ 2019 reimagining of Rabid airs on February 13, offering a feminist twist on Cronenberg’s 1977 classic with their trademark mix of gore and sharp social critique.

February 14 sees the channel premiere of Deathcember (2019), a festive anthology of horror shorts helmed by an impressive roster of directors, including Vivienne Vaughn, Sonia Escolano, and Ama Lea. Amy Holden Jones’ The Slumber Party Massacre (1982) follows on February 15, a cult slasher classic known for its clever subversion of genre tropes and commentary on gender dynamics. The week concludes on February 16 with the harrowing 2010 remake of I Spit on Your Grave, a controversial and powerful exploration of revenge and resilience, anchored by Sarah Butler’s intense performance.

I Spit on Your Grave

Before the women take the spotlight, NYX UK presents Zombie Week, a celebration of the living dead from February 3 to February 9. The programme begins with Lucio Fulci’s Zombie (1979), a visceral Italian horror classic known for its striking visuals and infamous gore sequences. February 4 honours George A. Romero with a double bill of The Crazies (1973) and Night of the Living Dead (1968), showcasing his pioneering vision of societal decay and relentless undead terror.

February 5 brings Tombs of the Blind Dead (1972), introducing the chilling Templar Knights, followed by its sequel, Return of the Evil Dead (1973), on February 6. The Blind Dead saga reaches its haunting conclusion on February 7 with Night of the Seagulls (1975). On February 8, Umberto Lenzi’s Nightmare City (1980) delivers chaotic undead mayhem, while February 9 concludes the week with Fulci’s The House by the Cemetery (1981), a fitting finale to this journey through zombie cinema.

Tombs of the Blind Dead

Finally, from February 25, NYX UK debuts Dark Rewind, a nostalgic TV series hosted by the charismatic August Kyss. Each episode revisits iconic 80s horror films, starting with the channel premiere of Sleepaway Camp (1983), a slasher known for its creative kills and unforgettable twist ending.

Whether you’re celebrating the creativity of women in horror or braving the undead apocalypse, NYX UK promises a February filled with chills and thrills for every horror fan.

Dark Rewind

REVIEW: Your Monster (2024 Film) - Starring Melissa Barrera and Tommy Dewey

Your Monster, directed by Caroline Lindy, is a daring and unconventional blend of romantic comedy and horror that entertains while tackling deeper emotional themes. With a standout performance from Melissa Barrera and a story full of unexpected turns, the film manages to be quirky, heartfelt, and occasionally unsettling. It may not be for everyone, but it is definitely memorable.

The story follows Laura Franco, a young actress recovering from cancer and a painful breakup with her boyfriend, Jacob Sullivan. Forced to move back into her childhood home, Laura stumbles upon a mysterious creature living in the upstairs closet. What begins as a tense and fearful interaction gradually evolves into an unusual friendship. Bonding over their shared love of theatre, Laura and the Monster develop a connection that is as touching as it is bizarre.

Melissa Barrera delivers an exceptional performance, capturing Laura’s vulnerability and resilience. She grounds the film with a raw and believable portrayal of a woman piecing her life back together. Tommy Dewey also impresses as the Monster, giving the shadowy creature a surprising amount of charm and emotional depth. Their chemistry drives the story and makes the strange relationship feel oddly genuine.

While the film offers thoughtful commentary on toxic relationships and self-discovery, its tone occasionally feels uneven. It swings between heartfelt drama, absurd comedy, and genuine horror, which keeps it unpredictable but may come off as disjointed for some viewers. The climax, though emotionally satisfying, leans heavily into melodrama and could divide opinions on whether it complements the rest of the story.

Despite its flaws, Your Monster feels fresh thanks to its quirky premise and genre-blending approach. The exploration of imbalanced relationships is effective, though it sometimes comes across as a little heavy-handed. The film’s focus on Laura’s emotional growth and romantic struggles might resonate more with female audiences, leaving male viewers feeling slightly less invested.

Even with its imperfections, Your Monster is an entertaining and unique experience. It strikes a delicate balance between sweet and sinister, offering something different for fans of offbeat romantic comedies. Strong performances, particularly from Barrera, help elevate the film, even when the tone occasionally falters.

This is a movie that lingers, blending humor, heartbreak, and a hint of the macabre in a way that stands out. It might not be flawless, but it is thought-provoking and fun. Fans of quirky romantic comedies with a horror twist will likely enjoy it. I would give Your Monster a solid 7 out of 10. It’s a film that feels tailor-made for women, but anyone looking for something outside the box may find themselves pleasantly surprised.

Out Now on Digital

Amazon - https://amzn.to/4fXQV5D