Haunt-Tober Day 23, 2023: HORRORFEST International Film Festival: Glue Trap

Posted on by Kstrouse

A couple gets away to a friend’s cabin for the weekend to reconnect and spend some quality time together. Dan (Isaac Jay) and KJ (Brittany Bradford) have been having a rough time lately and they feel this may rekindle their relationship.

Not long after they arrive an uninvited guest Eliza (Gloria Bangiola) does too, putting a big crutch in their plans. She says that she was unaware it was inhabited and that she was also given the place for the weekend. Their initial skepticism is slowly put on hold as they are forced to be cordial and deal with the unexpected.

Out of kindness, and her general pushiness, they let her in, but for KJ it is especially difficult to hide her unease. Their new arrival has the kind of saccharine personality that grates but can’t really be faulted, putting them in a state of unnecessary and delicate dislocation.

source: HorrorFest International Film Festival

While never uproariously funny, Glue Trap does something even more impressive: it shows a steady hand of clever lines and subtle nods of hilarity. Justin Geldzahler’s writing is wry and engaging, his dialogue believable but not without a wink of cheeky goodness.

Much like Speak No Evil did previously, Glue Trap drives with discomfort first, getting under your skin with the fear of social graces and awkward conversations. Lingering, though, is another presence, that gut impression that something is not quite right here.

When it comes to the surface and motives are disclosed, there’s little time to escape.

The direction by Justin Geldzahler is confident and shows immense detail to little things, making this mostly one- location film feels bigger in scope.

I was surprised by the doses of heart that came, especially in the final act, amid horrifying circumstances and humorous musings. There are some heady themes beneath the initial conceit and lovely moments of reflection that made me choke up. It also captures the difficulties and dynamics in relationships, taking something familiar and placing it within an unfamiliar and horrifying premise.

To say this was a film that grew on me as I watched and showcased an excellent feature writing/directing debut by Justin Geldzahler would be an understatement. This doesn’t feel like a debut, it’s skillfully done with just the right pacing to make you feel the potential for survival, as it slips away.

It is also a lot of fun, what you’d want and hope for when it comes to a horror/comedy. There’s an entertaining feel heightened by a wicked third act turn.

Glue Trap is a masterful debut feature, showcasing a new and talented voice in horror.

It premiered at HorrorFest International Film Festival and will have its NYC premiere at the Big Apple Film Festival (Saturday Nov 4 at 5:30pm).

Today’s winner:

Haunt- Tober Day 22, 2023: Tales From the Crypt Presents: Demon Knight

Posted on by Kstrouse

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

There is a substantial amount of glee that I feel every time I see Billy Zane punch through a guys head and then have his arm get stuck. It’s a ludicrous scene that is riotously funny. A common turn you’ll find in Tales From the Crypt Presents: Demon Knight right beside a horror based narrative and some unexpected twists and turns that tend to live within the realm of a preposterous nature.

Frank Brayker (William Sadler) – the knight/ is the guardian of an ancient key that can unlock an enormous evil, who is being outsider by the charmingly heinous Collector (Billy Zane).

Collector is a demon that wishes to set an apocalypse onto the world. When Frank takes refuge at a hotel in a small town, with a mix of characters including Jada Pinkett Smith, CCH Pounder and Thomas Hayden Church, he’s forced to hold up there and they all come together to try and stop Collector.

source: Universal Pictures

By all accounts Demon Knight is silly b-movie fodder, but its immensely entertaining all the same. Directed by Ernest Dickerson, there are some scary moments and definitely plenty of suspense, but where the film really thrives is within its openness to the strange and campy demeanor synonymous with the series.

A body horror with ample blood and gory atrocities. The humor is wildly generated from the scenes as they unfold and Billy Zane proves himself to be a hilariously menacing villain.

Sleaze, blood, and lots of severed body parts, Tales From the Crypt Presents: Demon Knight has some scenes that feel like placeholders, but overall works cohesively with its madcap narrative.

It is a campy homage that doesn’t promise any thought-provoking resonance, but will provide some easy thrills and stellar kills. Demon Knight knows what it is and doesn’t hide from it.

Today’s winner:

Haunt-Tober Day 21, 2023: Prince of Darkness

Posted on by Kstrouse

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

Another horror entry from the King.

Thanks to our day one winner of the 31 days of Haunt- Tober giveaways, I was pushed to scratch off a blindspot I had been meaning to do for a while.

As a big Carpenter fan (obviously) this seemed like a no brainer. In comparison to his wide range of work (including the connected In the Mouth of Madness) it isn’t a favorite but it still boasts enough scares and wildly intriguing concepts to warrant discovery.

A priest (Donald Pleasence) finds a vial in an church cellar that seems to be the essence of Satan.

When it spreads, claiming various collegiate, a student, Kelly (Susan Blanchard), becomes the main victim as it threatens to take her over completely.

It has a beautifully atmospheric score that matches a claustrophobic vibe. The film really finds its voice in the second half, paced well and haunting in aesthetic. It has an interesting and creative bit of world building and some terrific individual scenes.

Written and directed by John Carpenter, we are treated to the usual oddity with a sense of foreboding tension.

source: Universal Pictures

Prince of Darkness asks intriguing and controversial questions, creates dread early on, and builds a collective sense of curiosity from its audience. This master of horror knows his stuff, so with any film I start I am automatically trusting in his direction. I’ve seen more confident pieces and execution of compelling narratives in other projects, but his usual sensibilities are on full display.

There are a lot of great ideas that don’t always pay off, but, it possesses a haunting sensibility that makes for a terrific choice for an autumn night watch.

The performances outdo the script, but they are still iconic, especially Donald Pleasence. It meanders on silly with a touch of psychotic, and if nothing else Prince of Darkness is an interesting experience to live in for a time.

This take on demonic horror is truly a strange bit of cinema, but a welcoming addition to a long list of talented work. Come for Carpenter stay for the weird.

Today’s winner:

Haunt-Tober Day 20, 2023: Kalimba

Posted on by Kstrouse

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

This was originally published on Film Inquiry.

Kalimba, the horror short written by Robbie J. Atkinson and J.E. Atkinson and directed by Robbie J. Atkinson, is an exercise in nightmare fuel.

It opens to an ominous voice and a young woman in bed. Some… thing is leering over her and we catch a quick glimpse of the creature before she wakes.

Cassidy (Raiany Silva), is quite haunted. Her nighttime disruptions are wearing on her, accumulating in various ways, from nightmares to sleep paralysis. Her relationship with her mother is shown to be estranged early on, and she doesn’t give much credence to Cassidy’s concern that something more, supernatural, may be afoot. 

It’s mentioned that her grandma may be able to help, but in this well-paced twenty minute short, we don’t yet uncover what that will entail. It spikes an intrigue that doesn’t dissipate, making the squirming discomfort last until the final shot.

KALIMBA: Effectively Alluring & Eerie
source: RPX Media Productions

The only part that doesn’t quite click is a scene between her and her friend. A welcoming bit of levity, mind you, but some of the dialogue doesn’t hit as well as the rest. 

Overall, the film is a delightfully eerie bit of filmmaking that is quite polished and formidable. It shows a keen sense of creativity and curates some lingering horror imagery. The script flows with measured intent and crafts a lot of thought-provoking elements in its small runtime. 

Terrific sound design ensures we hear every gasp, creak and groan. This adds to an already amazing atmosphere that sweeps you up. Atkinson has a unique vision, and the direction speaks to detail and unique skill. Silva is quite good as our lead, convincingly tortured and she makes for an engaging north for us to follow in the night. 

Kalimba works because it utilizes the embedded fear of the unknown mixed with the psychological thrills that keep us glued to the screen.

The short is referenced as a proof of concept for a feature and I sure hope it gets one, I’d love to see what else lurks in the dark.

Conclusion:

Kalimba is a tightly wound wonder, enigmatic and enticing. There’s a lot to love here, and I look forward to seeing what comes next from this talented group.

Today’s winners of the Haunt-Tober Giveaway:

Haunt-Tober Day 19, 2023: New Project! Horror: A Journey Through the Decades

Posted on by Kstrouse

As the month sadly begins to near its end and we have but 11 days left of the giveaway, I thought it the right time to dive into Wonderfully Weird’s next project.

Currently it’s named Horror: A Journey Through the Decades (but it is possible to change in the coming days). It’s sort of a love letter to the genre going all the way back to its roots. It has come a long way and there is so much to reflect on that I can’t imagine doing it alone.

Since inquiring about how you all fell in love with horror, it made me think about how we all have our stories and our own experiences with the movies that shaped us. Those deserve to be heard!

This is an opportunity to gush about a film you adore or maybe, just respect. Regardless, you have the urge to write about it and so here we are. This will be published individually on the site as well as an eventual publishing in book form. This is unpaid unfortunately, but I will send you a copy of the book when it is released!

I am also open to feature ideas!

Horror is one of the best communities and it truly feels like a family. I’m excited to begin this new journey and create something truly unique with all of you!

To apply please go here.

And as always, thank you all.

-Kristy

Today’s winner:

Haunt-Tober Day 18, 2023/COMIC CORNER: Stanley and the Haunted House

Posted on by Crockett Houghton

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

From their inception in 2013, Storm King has continued to push the boundaries of horror for all ages. From their more mature releases to their Storm Kids line, Storm King really does have something for everybody under the sun (or the haunted night sky more likely). Stanley And The Haunted House continues that tradition of making horror accessible to even the youngest of readers and I have to say, even for a thirty-eight-year-old man, it was still pretty fun.

It all begins on Halloween night when Stanley (a hyper and precocious squirrel) and his other animal friends decide to tell each other ghost stories to get in the holiday mood. Quickly it becomes apparent that Stanley does not believe in ghosts and a challenge is handed out; to take a walk through the supposedly haunted Bunnyburrow Manor. They all meet the next day to enter the manor and very quickly any doubt that was held by Stanley is washed away. What follows is a very Scooby-Doo-like adventure, being chased from one scare to the next, all while trying to get to the bottom of what’s going on. Eventually, a lot of the mystery is unearthed (I won’t spoil it here) and new friends are made when an understanding is reached. One thing I will say is, that every home should have a candy room.

MEET THE GHOULIES AND GHOSTIES

It takes a village to make a palatable comic and the team behind Stanley And The Haunted House really nailed the assignment. Of course, with any comic, book, or even film or TV show, it all starts with the writing. Nothing can be done without a script in place and for this, Jeff Blake wrote a really compelling and fun tail (this is a pun) that not only was entertaining for the target audience and adults alike but it also managed to sneak in a positive message without being preachy. It was really well done.

The art team is a huge part of any comic, having to set the tone and convey the aesthetic that the writer was going for. Basically, they deal in mood, handing out emotion one panel at a time. The art in the Stanley books are always top notch and this was no exception. On pencils, Walter Carzon really brought us a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique style and flavor. It’s always fun for me to see animals act like people. I’m a child of the 80’s, what can I say?

The inking duties went to Horacio Ottolini who set those lines and laid in that black with precision. The shadows are deep and full of mystery, he did an amazing job. The final color was dropped in by Jeff Blake, pulling double duty. The colors really popped off the pages and ran the course of bright primaries to dark and moody muted. On letters we had, Janice Chiang, continuing her amazing run of giving each character their own voice through font. The entire look of this book is fantastic.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Like I said earlier, I’m not the target audience for this book and even still I had a good time. The story really tackles some complex questions in a childlike way that can easily be understood. It also carried with it a message of friendship and adventure, understanding others points of view, and of acceptance. It was quite beautifully done while at the same time giving the kids (the Storm Kids) who came here for frights, plenty of ghosts and jumps to wet their appetites.

The Stanley books are an ongoing series for Storm King with many adventures of these furry friends already out and ready to be consumed. Stanley And The Haunted House is a great addition to the many volumes that already exist. If you’re a fan of horror and you have children this is a perfect series for them to start growing their love as well. Or, even if you’re just an adult like me who likes to see cartoon animals act like people, this book has a little bit for everybody. I honestly can’t recommend it highly enough.

Today’s winner:

Enter for a Chance to Win a The Nun II Digital Movie!

Posted on by Kstrouse

As part of our 31 days of giveaways, we are giving out 10 The Nun II digital movies (valued at $24.99)!

Enter for a chance to win a The Nun II digital movie! We have 10 to give away!

The giveaway runs from October 17th to November 3rd.

We are giving away 10 The Nun II digital movies! Enter on our site!

The sequel to the worldwide smash hit The Nun follows Sister Irene as she once again comes face to face with the demonic force Valak—The Demon Nun.

For more information on the giveaway and to enter, click here.

MUST REDEEM DIGITAL MOVIE OFFER BY 4/30/2024. Consumer must reside in the U.S. and register for a digital service provider account (go to wb.com/RedeemMovie for a list of digital service providers (e.g., Movies Anywhere). May only include HD Main Feature. NOT COMPATIBLE WITH ALL DEVICES. SOME DISPLAY RESOLUTIONS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR STREAMING OR DOWNLOAD ON ALL DEVICES FROM ALL DIGITAL SERVICES. Consult your digital service provider for compatible devices, available display resolutions, streaming and download capability and Terms of Service. Ultimate display resolution on playback is dependent upon connection and device characteristics, including screen resolution. High-speed Internet connection required. Go to wb.com/RedeemMovie for additional details, requirements and technical support. Neither Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. nor any affiliate is responsible for maintaining any digital service. THIS DIGITAL MOVIE OFFER MAY NOT BE RESOLD OR OTHERWISE TRANSFERRED

Haunt-Tober Day 17, 2023: Vax (Barak Shpiez)

Posted on by Kstrouse

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

What does the scariest concept look like? Is it something that touches on familiar fears while also pushing the scope? Or is it the unimaginable?

In Barak Shpiez’s Vax, it does the former, with a conceit that feels eerie and effectively perpetuates our already dormant (or not so much) concerns in a succinct package.

It’s 2003, and researcher Geoff (Cade Carradine) begins his shift at his lab where he has been working on a malaria vaccine. However, today, he notices that in one of his samples, the virus is missing.

He goes to his supervisor, Eric (Ricco Ross), and the two figure discover that they may have finally found the cure. But what about the lost sample?

Their discussion shifts to the decision to hide what’s happened and move forward with the win, keeping the potential disaster a secret, and cashing in on their findings.

Worst Case Scenario

When you have a position of power such as this and handle such important samples, there’s really no opportunity for a mess-up. Geoff knows the dangers, and he’s sweating. But the film poses an intriguing question of morality.

source: Barak Shpiez

Vax utilizes the tension it builds early on as the clock ticks down, uncertain of the full consequences that may have occurred.

This 12-minute short manages to create ample suspense, in some ways more effectively than other full-length features.

The idea has a lot of avenues it could take as a feature, but for now, this short leaves us on an intriguing open note. What will they do? It focuses on greed, power, and the inevitable morality of having such a grand decision in one’s hands.

It is a very impressive short and a taut example of a medical thriller done right. I wanted more!

Vax is a riveting bit of horror that proves to be effectively posing valid questions and boasts excellent direction from Barak Shpiez.

Today’s winner:

Haunt-Tober Day 16, 2023: The Monster Squad

Posted on by Kstrouse

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

Monsters run amok, terrorizing a vulnerable town, and only a group of geeky youngsters can put an end to their reign. Enter 1987’s The Monster Squad.

This squad comprises a tight-knit circle of friends who share a profound fascination for the iconic Universal Monsters. Led by the charismatic Sean Crensha (played by Andre Gower), the group also includes his sister Phoebe (portrayed by Ashley Bank), whose ardent desire to participate is palpable, as well as their loyal comrades Horace, Rudy, and Eugene.

When Dracula descends upon the town, he brings with him an unholy alliance of Frankenstein’s monster, the Wolfman, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and the Mummy, their nefarious intentions looming large. Armed with the diary of the legendary monster hunter Dr. Van Helsing, Sean and his friends embark on a thrilling adventure to safeguard their beloved community.

source: TriStar Pictures

Directed by the talented Fred Dekker and co-written by Dekker and the renowned Shane Black, The Monster Squad may have its imperfections, but its abundance of heart and sheer enjoyment make it impossible to part ways with this film without a beaming smile. The movie effortlessly encapsulates Shane Black’s trademark witty banter and comedic brilliance, while proudly embracing the distinct aesthetics of the 1980s. Whether this nostalgic homage is viewed as a drawback or a virtue largely depends on personal taste.

Personally, I relish a touch of delightful cheesiness, particularly in a film that revolves around the audacious dreams of children battling formidable monsters.

The Monster Squad is an enchanting cinematic experience, brimming with nostalgia and punctuated by unforgettable one-liners.

Today’s Winner:

Haunt-Tober Day 15, 2023: The Nightmare Before Christmas

Posted on by Kstrouse

While horror movie watching is a year-round event, this is that time of year when all of us can flourish, embracing the weird.

So, come one, come all, beasties unite! It’s Haunt-Tober time!

I can’t think of October- December without this Henry Selick directed and Tim Burton born, classic. Even now after rewatching (many times) I am left in awe of the artistry and the wonderful stop motion work. It conjures quite a spell and still continues to be a favorite among the masses.

Jack (Chris Sarandon) the pumpkin king’s, (lover of the macabre and ruler of Halloweentown) life is about to change as he finds out about the existence of Christmas. He’s filled with the unexpected desire to give and become his own version of Santa Claus, which, while well intended, brings disastrous results.

One of the most beautifully crafted of Danny Elfman‘s creations, The Nightmare Before Christmas dances on in your psyche, singing a song that’ll never leave you and will always give you a routinely coherent combination of eerie and emotional, Christmas and Halloween, that is endlessly satisfying.

source: Buena Vista Entertainment

The writing and story at the center is wonderfully weird (yeah, I did it) and truly genius, especially when combined with the art form they chose. The animation is flawless and smooth and has a lot of detail that makes this a masterpiece of craft.

“It’s a world unlike anything I have ever seen.”

This isn’t the first Burton project I have written about and it certainly won’t be the last. While this isn’t my favorite this does have a special place in my heart and it really speaks to me. The animation and story have a child like wonder but the themes and aesthetics are hauntingly emotional. It is also a fun story that reminds you why this time of year is so special.

It’s a testament to its staying power and importance to the holiday season.

Along with the incredible original songs and a vibe that truly speaks to film fans and outcasts alike, there is also a lovely central romance. Sally (Catherine O’Hara) and Jack’s connection is that kind of fateful love story you yearn to see, and it’s the soul of the picture.

The Nightmare Before Christmas is unique and timeless, a magical adventure that’ll delight the senses and steal your heart.

Today’s winners:

More to come!