Thursday 31 August 2023

Home invasion thriller FEAR THE NIGHT - Coming to UK Digital outlets.

The amazing Maggie Q (Live Free or Die Hard, Divergent) returns to our screens for an all-out action home invasion horror that will ensure you’ll FEAR THE NIGHT. This new killer thriller from lauded writer–director Neil LaBute (In the Company of Men, Possession) gets its UK debut this September on Digital courtesy of 101 Films.

Maggie leads the cast as Tess, an Iraq War veteran and recovering addict who’s back for her sister’s hen weekend. Along with her other sister and a group of friends, they head to their parents' remote farmhouse in the California hills for an outrageous girls' blow-out, but something far more sinister awaits them.

As the party gets going, the drinks begin to flow and so does the fun, but not for Tess, who can’t relax – she doesn’t fit in and struggles to let her guard down – which is lucky for the rest of them, as things suddenly take a disturbingly twisted turn...

When the party's male stripper is struck with an arrow the evening descends into panic, and when more shots are fired the women quickly realise they’re under attack – a group of menacing masked men are on the rampage. Tess realises that it’s do or die and as her killer instincts kick in, all hell breaks loose… she’ll stop at nothing to defend the group, as the bachelorette bash turns into a brutal bloodbath.

It’s kill or be killed in this thrilling battle of wills and skills, scares and thrills.

Released on Digital 25 September 2023

View the Trailer on YouTube.

Hammer Films and Studios acquired by legendary British theatre producer, John Gore

Visionary British theatre producer, John Gore has acquired the iconic Hammer Films and Studios, in a recent acquisition.
 

Gore, the twenty-time Tony-winning, Emmy and Olivier-winning British entertainment producer, renowned for his live theatre company the John Gore Organisation which owns Broadway.com and Broadway Across America - the leading presenter, distributor, and marketer of Broadway theatre worldwide - has acquired Hammer Films. Gore will lead a new team as Chairman and C.E.O. 
 
Marking a significant moment for both Hammer Films and Gore, the acquisition brings together two incredible forces in the entertainment industry. With significant investment in Hammer Films, the partnership will breathe new life into the studio, blending the nostalgic charm of Hammer with modern cinematic style and innovation - all the while preserving its rich heritage and vast library, ensuring continued appreciation by generations to come.
 
Hammer Films and Studios has held its iconic status in the film industry and made an indelible mark on British and global cinema since it was founded in 1934. The company is synonymous with horror, after defining the genre in Britain with classics such as Dracula, The Curse of Frankenstein and The Mummy, which made stars of Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing while spawning numerous sequels widely adored by audiences across the globe. It also produced such classics as One Million Years B.C starring Raquel Welch and She starring Ursula Andress. Although famous for horror it had great success across all genres and achieved the rare cross-over success from film to TV and vice versa.
 
With a captivating new slate of films and projects that will be unveiled in the coming months, the first film of the new incarnation of the studio to be released is B Good Picture Company’s Doctor Jekyll, starring Eddie Izzard and Scott Chambers, and directed by Joe Stephenson. It is due for a cinema release later this year.
 
John Gore said of the acquisition “Ever since I was a young boy, I've been enchanted by the magic of Hammer Films. Its stories, its characters and its unique place in British heritage and cinema have been a source of inspiration and wonder. Today, as I stand at the helm of this iconic studio, my commitment is twofold: to celebrate and preserve the unmatched legacy of Hammer and to usher in a new era of storytelling that captivates audiences worldwide. With significant investment and a fresh creative vision, we will ensure that the spirit of Hammer not only endures but thrives in the modern age.” 
 
 
 



H.P. Lovecraft's SUITABLE FLESH - At selected cinemas and TVOD, October

Shudder and Vertigo Releasing are suitably thrilled to announce SUITABLE FLESH, will be released in cinemas and on TVOD October 27th. The film will then make it's debut on Shudder in January 2024.


Written by H.P. Lovecraft (Color Out of Space, Re-Animator)SUITABLE FLESH sees Psychiatrist Elizabeth Derby become obsessed with helping a young patient suffering extreme personality disorder. But it leads her into dark occult danger as she tries to escape a horrific fate.
 
Directed by Joe Lynch (Point Blank, Mayhem), the film stars Heather Graham (Lost in Space, Boogie Nights, Austin Powers 2), Judah Lewis (Demolition, The Babysitter), Bruce Davison (X-Men, Insidious: The Last Key), Johnathon Schaech (The Night Clerk),  and Barbara Crampton (You're Next, Beyond The Gates, Lords of Salem).
 
The film opened the recent FrightFest horror festival in London and will be screening at the Mayhem Festival in Nottingham Mid-October.

View the Trailer on YouTube.

Shudder's hit series CREEPSHOW, Series 1, 2 & 3 - Gets home ent. release 25 Sept

Following the announcement that CREEPSHOW Series Four will debut on Shudder on Friday, 13th October 2023, Acorn Media are delighted to announce the home ent. release of CREEPSHOW, Series 1, 2 & 3 on Disc and Digital.


TUNE IN to CREEPSHOW for some old-school horror thrills as the critically acclaimed TV series based on the seminal 1980s cult classic from horror dream team, maestro George A. Romero and virtuoso Stephen King, gets its home entertainment bow courtesy of Acorn Media International. 

CREEPSHOW, Series 1, 2 & 3 are set to arrive on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital on 25 September 2023 as individual releases, each packed with special features.

CREEPSHOW, Series 2 comes with two fresh animated tales of terror in A Creepshow Animated Special, which sees Kiefer Sutherland (Designated Survivor, 24) star in Survivor Type based on the short story by Stephen King and Joe King (The Kissing Booth, The Act) star in Twittering from the Circus of the Dead, based on the short story by Joe Hill (NOS4A2). Series 2 also comes with A Creepshow Holiday Special starring Anna Camp (Pitch Perfect) and Adam Pally (The Mindy Project).

Produced by Greg Nicotero (The Walking Dead), the series features a slew of unique horror vignettes from some of the most lauded talent around, including Stephen King, as well as his son, writer Joe Hill (NOS4A2), Primetime Emmy award-winning Rob Schrab (Rick and Morty, Monster House), Josh Malerman (Bird Box) and more.

Creepshow comic books come to life in this anthology series of terrifying tales hosted by the silent ghoul. Haunted dollhouses, werewolves, murderous goblins, villainous trick-or-treaters, the dead and medical marvels are just a few of the things to watch out for – you never know what shocks await you in the next chapter...

This blood-soaked, playfully dark and irresistibly eerie series is the perfect homage to horrors of old. Gory good fun at its most entertaining, set the channel to CREEPSHOW for a horror feast to sate your appetite for fear. 

SPECIAL FEATURES include: Cast and Crew interviews; Behind the Scenes Footage; Photo Galleries, Creepshow Series Two includes Animated Special & Holiday Special

Pre-order Series 1 on UK BD from Amazon.co.uk
Pre-order Series 1 on UK DVD from Amazon.co.uk

Pre-order Series 2 on UK BD from Amazon.co.uk
Pre-order Series 2 on UK DVD from Amazon.co.uk

Pre-order Series 3 on UK BD from Amazon.co.uk
Pre-order Series 3 on UK DVD from Amazon.co.uk

 

 
 

 

 


Graboids tunnel onto UHD and a Coffin Joe BD boxset - Coming from Arrow Video

Arrow Video’s November lineup includes the UHD debut of the fantastic horror comedy TREMORS 2: AFTERSHOCKS and INSIDE THE MIND OF COFFIN JOE, with all-new restorations of bizarre and incredible films of legendary Brazilian horror auteur José Mojica Marins.

The releases feature brand new restorations, in-depth commentaries and video essays, fascinating documentaries, limited edition packaging, booklets, fold-out posters, art cards and reversible sleeves.

First in November, TREMORS 2: AFTERSHOCKS - six years after Tremors first tunnelled its way into audiences’ affections, the original creative team returned for an equally edge-of-your-seat sequel that would pave the way for a long-running franchise by adding some new twists to everyone’s favourite slimy subterranean slitherers! 

Starring Fred Ward, Helen Shaver and Christopher Gartin, the film reprises the same mix of nail-biting horror and rib-tickling humour that made the original film so beloved. 

The brand new 4K restoration makes this creature feature pop like never before, on Limited Edition UHD, as well as an Arrow Store Exclusive UHD Limited Edition, and Limited Edition Blu-ray which all come with a booklet, posters and highly-desirable packaging.

4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY LIMITED EDITION CONTENTS

- New 4K restoration from the original negative by Arrow Films, approved by director S.S. Wilson
- 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible)
- Original lossless 2.0 and 4.0 surround audio
- Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing
- Brand new feature commentary by director/co-writer S.S. Wilson and co-producer Nancy Roberts
- Brand new feature commentary by Jonathan Melville, author of Seeking Perfection: The Unofficial Guide to Tremors
- Graboid Go Boom, a newly filmed interview with special effects designer Peter Chesney
- Critical Need-to-Know Information, a newly filmed interview with CG supervisor Phil Tippett
- The Making of Tremors 2, an on-set featurette with the cast and crew
- Outtakes
- Trailers for Tremors and Tremors 2: Aftershocks
- Image gallery
- Illustrated perfect bound booklet featuring new writing by Jonathan Melville on the Tremors 2 scripts that never got made, and Dave Wain & Matty Budrewicz on the history of Universal’s DTV sequel division
- Double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Matt Frank
- Small fold-out poster featuring new Shrieker X-ray art by Matt Frank
- Limited Edition packaging featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Matt Frank

Also available on BD in High Definition (1080p)

Pre-order the UK 4K UHD from Amazon.co.uk

Pre-order the UK BD from Amazon.co.uk 


November also sees the release of the unmissable box set INSIDE THE MIND OF COFFIN JOE. With his iconic long fingernails, top hat and cape, Zé do Caixão (Coffin Joe) was the creation of Brazilian filmmaker José Mojica Marins, who wrote, directed and starred in a series of outrageous movies from 1964 to 2008. 

Collected here are At Midnight I’ll Take Your Soul, This Night I’ll Possess Your Corpse, The Strange World of Coffin Joe, The Awakening of the Beast, The End of Man, When the Gods Fall Asleep, The Strange Hostel of Naked Pleasures, Hellish Flesh, Hallucinations of a Deranged Mind and Embodiment of Evil

Newly restored from the best available elements and packed with new and archival extras, This lavish and lurid six-disc collection includes commentaries, interviews, alternative film titles and endings, an illustrated collector’s book featuring new writing, reversible sleeves with newly commissioned artwork, a double-sided fold-out poster and 12 postcard-sized double-sided art cards. 

LIMITED EDITION BLU-RAY CONTENTS

- Brand new 4K restorations from the best available elements
- High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentations of all films
- Original lossless mono audio for all films (except Embodiment of Evil)
- Optional English subtitles on all films
- Coffin Joe: Against the World!, an illustrated collector’s book featuring new writing by Tim Lucas, Carlos Primati, Jerome Reuter, Amy Voorhees Searles, Kyle Anderson, and Paula Sacramento
- Reversible sleeves featuring newly commissioned artwork by Butcher Billy
- Double-sided fold-out poster featuring newly commissioned artwork by Butcher Billy
- 12 postcard-sized double-sided art cards

DISC 1: AT MIDNIGHT I’LL TAKE YOUR SOUL

- Brand new 4K restoration from a 35mm interpositive and a 35mm print
- Archive audio commentary with writer, director and star José Mojica Marins, filmmaker Paulo Duarte and film scholar Carlos Primati (Portuguese with English subtitles)
- Coffin Joe’s Sadean Underworld, a new video essay by film scholar Lindsay Hallam
- Damned: The Strange World of José Mojica Marins, the definitive documentary on the life and work of José Mojica Marins by André Barcinski and Ivan Finotti
- Bloody Kingdom, José Mojica Marins’ first short film with director’s commentary
- The Adventurer’s Fate and My Destiny in Your Hands, excerpts from early works by José Mojica Marins
- Theatrical trailer

DISC 2: THIS NIGHT I’LL POSSESS YOUR CORPSE / THE STRANGE WORLD OF COFFIN JOE

- Brand new 4K restoration of This Night I’ll Possess Your Corpse from the original 35mm camera negative and 35mm interpositive
- Brand new 4K restoration of The Strange World of Coffin Joe from a 35mm interpositive and a 35mm print
- Archive audio commentaries for both films with José Mojica Marins, Paulo Duarte and Carlos Primati (Portuguese with English subtitles)
- Eccentric of Cinema, a new interview with author Stephen Thrower examining the early life and influences of José Mojica Marins
- On Tonight’s Horror Show!, a new video essay by film scholar Miranda Corcoran looking at the mythic figure of Coffin Joe within the canon of horror hosts
- Alternative ending for The Strange World of Coffin Joe with commentary by José Mojica Marins
- Theatrical trailers

DISC 3: THE AWAKENING OF THE BEAST / THE END OF MAN

- Brand new 4K restoration of The Awakening of the Beast from a 35mm interpositive and a 35mm print
- Brand new 4K restoration of The End of Man from the original 35mm camera negative
- Archive audio commentaries for both films with José Mojica Marins, Paulo Duarte and Carlos Primati (Portuguese with English subtitles)
- The Strange Mind of Coffin Joe, a new interview with author Guy Adams exploring the esoteric aspects of José Mojica Marins
- A Woman for Joe, a new video essay by film scholar Alexandra Heller-Nicholas exploring the complex gender politics of Marins’ filmography
- Alternate opening titles for The Awakening of the Beast
- Theatrical trailers

DISC 4: WHEN THE GODS FALL ASLEEP / THE STRANGE HOSTEL OF NAKED PLEASURES

- Brand new 4K restoration of When the Gods Fall Asleep from a 35mm film print, the only known existing element
- Brand new 4K restoration of The Strange Hostel of Naked Pleasures from the original 35mm camera negative
- The Demonic Surrealism of Coffin Joe, a new interview with scholar and filmmaker Virginie Sélavy exploring the parallels between the work of José Mojica Marins and the European and South American surrealist movements
- Delirium, Surrealism, and Vision, a new interview with author Jack Sargeant
- Apostle of Evil, a new interview with Dennison Ramalho (co-writer of Embodiment of Evil) about his early connection to Coffin Joe
- Mojica in the Snow: Tonight I Incarnate at Sundance!, footage of Marins attending the Sundance Film Festival in 2001
- A Blind Date for Coffin Joe, a short film by Raymond “Coffin Ray” Castile
- Theatrical trailer for The Strange Hostel of Naked Pleasures

DISC 5: HELLISH FLESH / HALLUCINATIONS OF A DERANGED MIND

- Brand new 4K restorations of both films from the original 35mm camera negatives
- Archive audio commentary for Hallucinations of a Deranged Mind with José Mojica Marins, editor Nilcemar Leyart, Paulo Duarte and Carlos Primati (Portuguese with English subtitles)
- Aesthetics of Garbage: José Mojica Marins, a Complicated Icon, a new interview with filmmaker Andrew Leavold (The Search for Weng Weng) examining Marins' place in the Marginal Cinema movements of the 60s and 70s
- Beyond Good and Evil, a new video essay by film critic Kat Ellinger
- Theatrical trailers

DISC 6: EMBODIMENT OF EVIL

- Original lossless DTS-HD MA 2.0 and 5.1 audio options
- Archive audio commentary with producer Paulo Sacramento and co-screenwriter Dennison Ramalho (Portuguese with English subtitles)
- Learning from the Master, a new interview with screenwriter Dennison Ramalho
- Fantasia Film Festival Premiere Footage, archival footage of José Mojica Marins at the film's premiere
- Apprenticeship of Evil, an archival interview in which Ramalho pays tribute to José Mojica Marins and looks back on their friendship
- Official Making Of and Experimental Making Of, two archival featurettes about the production
- Deleted scenes with commentary by director José Mojica Marins
- Visual Effects: Purgatory, an archival featurette with commentary by director José Mojica Marins
- Storyboards, an archival featurette with commentary by director José Mojica Marins
- Theatrical trailer

Pre-order the UK BD Box-Set from Amazon.co.uk

 



 

 

Mayhem Film Festival announces CONANN, SUITABLE FLESH and TRIM SEASON

With less than two months to go, Mayhem Film Festival is proud to announce three additional titles from this year’s edition, which will take place at Broadway, Nottingham on 12-15 October 2023.


Mayhem is excited to be hosting the UK Premiere of Bertrand Mandico’s CONANN, which had its World Premiere at this year’s Directors’ Fortnight in Cannes. Flipping the myth of Conan the Barbarian on its head, the film finds underworld woman/dog mutant Rainer recounting the six lives of Conann, a bloodthirsty Amazon. Populated with strange creatures and gory tableaux, Conann is a time-bending and camp tale of barbarism and betrayal. 


Next is SUITABLE FLESH, the new film from Joe Lynch (Mayhem) in which Heather Graham plays a psychiatrist who becomes obsessed with a young patient she believes is suffering from multiple personality disorder, only to uncover something much darker and sinister. Also featuring horror icon Barbara Crampton, the film is a gory, psychosexual, Lovecraftian tale that’s deeply inspired by 80s horror.


Finally, witchcraft is at the heart of Ariel Vida’s TRIM SEASON which rounds up this second wave of announcement. A group of young people hoping to make some quick cash trimming marijuana at a remote farm, quickly discover the lady of the house may be hiding some dark secrets. Trim Season is a bloody folk horror that also explores themes of gender and self-discovery.  


The three films join the previously announced UK Premiere of Thomas Sainsbury’s LOOP TRACK, as well as the Adams family’s WHERE THE DEVIL ROAMS and a 25th anniversary screening of Robert Rodriguez’ THE FACULTY in this year’s line-up. 

Full festival passes are available at the price of £85. To purchase, please visit https://www.broadway.org.uk/whats-on/mayhem-film-festival-2023-full-festival-pass 

The rest of the programme for Mayhem’s 19th edition will be revealed early September with individual tickets being released shortly after. Mayhem Film Festival will take place at Broadway, Nottingham on 12 – 15 October 2023. 

For more information, please visit http://www.mayhemfilmfestival.com



Surrealist black comedy DELICATESSEN - Coming to 4K UHD

DELICATESSEN, in a sumptuous new 4K restoration, and making its UHD debut, is a wonderfully dark, critically acclaimed surreal comedy from directors Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, whose dazzling fantasy adventure THE CITY OF LOST CHILDREN was released earlier this year by STUDIOCANAL. 

DELICATESSEN is set in a distant, apocalyptic future, conventional society has reached a state of collapse. Grain is now used as currency and meat has become a rare commodity. Meanwhile an unemployed clown finds work as a maintenance man in a squalid apartment block situated above a butcher’s shop.

Having fallen in love with the owner’s daughter he soon discovers the sinister truth behind the ominous landlord’s unsavoury intentions. Between blossoming romance and disappearing tenants his only hope for survival could be the members of a subterranean militia of vegetarian freedom fighters. Or is it too late already?

With its iconic, surreal imagery, gallows humour and its cast of warped characters, DELICATESSEN marked the breakthrough collaboration between celebrated directors Jean-Pierre Jeunet (Amelie, A Very Long Engagement, Micmacs) and Marc Caro (Dante 01). Equal parts horror, comedy and dystopian fantasia, DELICATESSEN is still one of the most original and influential films of its time. 

Winner of two César Awards, for Best Debut and Best Screenplay, and nominated for the Best Foreign Film BAFTA, the film stars Dominique Pinon, who would go on to appear in Amélie and The City of Lost Children.

Co-director Jeunet went on to make the box office hit Alien: Resurrection (1997) and the sensational Amélie (2001), starring Audrey Tautou, nominated for five Oscars, winner of two BAFTAs and winner of four French Césars. He also made A Very Long Engagement with Tautou, which was nominated for two Oscars.

DELICATESSEN is available to buy on 4K UHD, Blu-ray, DVD and Digital from 16th October 2023, and available to pre-order now.

INCLUDED WITH DELICATESSEN:
- Audio commentary with director Jean-Pierre Jeunet
- Making of: Fine Cooked Pork Meats
- Main Course Pieces
- Jean-Pierre Jeunet Archive
- Interview with Jeunet and Caro 

Pre-order the UK 4K UHD from Amazon.co.uk

Pre-order the UK BD from Amazon.co.uk 

Pre-order the UK DVD from Amazon.co.uk 


Tuesday 22 August 2023

Summer camp slasher FINAL SUMMER - On UK Digital, Sept

Pack your bags for FINAL SUMMER – an '80s-inspired summer camp slasher that sees a group of camp counsellors fighting for their lives against a masked killer. 

This blood-squirting, brutally brilliant horror is the impressive directorial debut from John Isberg – who also writes and co-produces the film – and is set for its UK digital release on 18 September 2023, courtesy of Miracle Media Limited.

We head back to 1991, after a long summer of fun and games at Camp Silverlake, where organisers are preparing to shut down the camp for the final season before it is sold to developers

But there’s something – or someone – waiting in the darkness to exact bloody revenge on the unsuspecting campers. Who is the masked menace and what do they want?

Heat turns to horror in FINAL SUMMER – an old-school style, endlessly entertaining horror, with bucketloads of blood, jump scares and no shortage of macabre murders.

View the Trailer on YouTube.

On UK Digital 18 September 2023 from Miracle Media Limited

Psychological Horror ANOTHER DAY TO LIVE THROUGH - Coming to UK Digital, Sept

This isn’t just ANOTHER DAY TO LIVE THROUGH in a brand new, hauntingly powerful, psychological, ground-hog-day-esque horror that gets its UK digital release on 11 September 2023, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films. 

Directed by Peter Simmons, in his feature debut, this captivating British/Finnish thriller unveils a world of harrowingly exquisite visuals, shrouded in enigma. Satu (Lene Kqiku – Carcera), a Finnish ex-pat seeking solace after a terrible loss, returns to her homeland and there, meets Lauri (Timo Torikka – The Winter War), a semi-retired, bitter military contractor.

But nothing is what it seems as Satu and Lauri find themselves ensnared within a labyrinth of disconcerting, violent and bewildering recurring scenarios, where roles and identities shift in an isolated cabin with no obvious escape.

As time distorts, reality fractures and dangerous truths come to light, Satu must do all she can to break the cycle and escape the waking nightmare she is trapped in...

This sinister, eerily evocate horror promises a spectacular experience. Open your eyes to ANOTHER DAY TO LIVE THROUGH – a quietly terrifying and disturbing feature that will linger long after the credits have rolled.

View the Trailer on YouTube.

On UK Digital 11 September 2023 from Reel 2 Reel Films


British Horror THE MOOR - Set to premiere at FrightFest

The chilling and atmospheric British horror, THE MOOR, from Chris Cronin, is set to have its World Premiere at Pigeon Shrine Festfest. 

Premiering on Saturday 26th August, the film will be screening as a part of FrightFest's prestigious 'First Blood' strand, showcasing releases from up-and-coming filmmakers.

Synopsis: Claire was just a child when her best friend was abducted and murdered. Twenty five years later, Bill, the dead boy's father, has a plan to learn the truth about what really happened. With the help of psychic Eleanor, they venture deep into a haunted moor where something dark and evil stirs at their presence.

THE MOOR marks Chris Cronin's feature-length directorial debut and stars Sophia La Porta, David Edward-Robertson, Bernard Hill and Elizabeth Dormer-Phillips.

View the Trailer on YouTube

THE MOOR will have its 'First Blood' World Premiere at FrightFest on 26th August

For more info on this and other films being shown, visit https://www.frightfest.co.uk

Tod Bronwning's FREAKS/ THE UNKNOWN/ THE MYSTIC - Out on UK BD Oct

The world is a carnival of criminality, corruption, and psychosexual strangeness in the twisted pre-Code shockers of Tod Browning. 

Early Hollywood’s edgiest auteur, Browning drew on his experiences as a circus performer to create subversive pulp entertainments set amid the world of traveling sideshows, which, with their air of the exotic and the disreputable, provided a pungent backdrop for his sordid tales of outcasts, cons, villains, and vagabonds. 

Bringing together two of his defining works (The Unknown and Freaks) and a long-unavailable rarity (The Mystic), this cabinet of pre-Code curiosities reveals a master of the morbid whose ability to unsettle is matched only by his daring compassion for society’s most downtrodden.

SPECIAL EDITION FEATURES

-  New 2K digital restoration of Freaks, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray
- New 2K digital reconstruction and restoration of The Unknown by the George Eastman Museum, with a new score by composer Philip Carli
-  New 2K digital restoration of The Mystic, with a new score by composer Dean Hurley
- Audio commentaries on Freaks and The Unknown and an introduction to The Mystic by film scholar David J. Skal
-  New interview with author Megan Abbott about director Tod Browning and pre-Code horror
-  Archival documentary on Freaks
- Episode from 2019 of critic Kristen Lopez’s podcast Ticklish Business about disability representation in Freaks
-  Reading by Skal of “Spurs,” the short story by Tod Robbins on which Freaks is based
-  Prologue to Freaks, which was added to the film in 1947
-  Program on the alternate endings to Freaks
-  Video gallery of portraits from Freaks
-  English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
-  PLUS: An essay by film critic Farran Smith Nehme

FREAKS/ THE UNKNOWN/ THE MYSTIC : TOD BROWNING'S SIDESHOW SHOCKERS is released to UK BD 23rd of October as part of The Criterion UK Collection, from Spirit Entertainment.

Pre-order the UK BD from Amazon.co.uk


Thursday 17 August 2023

BORDERLINE - Coming to UK Digital on 28 Aug

Natalia Tena (Harry Potter, Game Of Thrones) and Mads Reuther (Into the Darkness, In the Blood) star in BORDERLINE, a dark and menacing thriller set to arrive on UK Digital on 28 August 2023, courtesy of Yet Another Distribution Company.

Successful Danish marketing executive Mads (Reuther) has a chance encounter with the enigmatic Joan (Tena) on a trip to London.

The two enjoy a whirlwind romance but when Mads returns to his life in Denmark, for Joan, it doesn’t end there...

In this enthralling feature, a thrilling affair turns sinister and as two worlds collide, things quickly unravel into chaos and suspense.

View the Trailer on YouTube.

On UK Digital 28 August 2023 from Yet Another Distribution Company


NYX-UK - The newest Fast TV channel for horror fans unveils a classic line-up of genre movies for Sept

The UK’s newest Fast TV channel for horror fans unveils a classic line-up of genre movies for September 2023. Argento, Rollin, Bava, Corman and Vadim spearhead month of must-see cult favourites

September is a stylish, horror-filled month on NYX UK, packed with giallo slashers, erotic masterpieces, monstrous thrillers and infamous chillers, spearheaded by four Dario Argento classics – PHENOMENA, TENEBRAE and a double-bill of DEED RED and SUSPIRIA, which celebrates the Italian maestro’s 83rd birthday on Sept 7.

Another Italian master of the macabre is Mario Bava and NYX UK is screening THE WHIP AND THE BODY, his delirious journey into troubled souls, starring Christoper Lee, and his superb horror anthology, BLACK  SABBATH.

Jean Rollin, the French master of the erotic Gothic Vampire movie, is also celebrated with his blood-sucking classics: THE NUDE VAMPIRE, LIPS OF BLOOD, RAPE OF THE VAMPIRE and REQUIEM OF A VAMPIRE. Another French cult favourite, Roger Vadim, also features, with one of his finest films, BLOOD & ROSES.

From the ‘king of cult’ himself, Roger Corman, we have THE TERROR, starring a youthful Jack Nicolson, THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, the apocalyptic stunner, LAST WOMAN ON EARTH, and the counter-culture comedy horror, A BUCKET OF BLOOD, which receives its premiere this month.

Other monthly highlights include those unforgettable directorial debuts from Abel Ferrara (THE DRILLER KILLER) and Francis Ford Coppola (DEMENTIA 13), plus, the unflinching MARK OF THE DEVIL, starring Udo Kier & Herbert Lom, William Castle’s fear-inducing THE TINGLER, starring Vincent Price, Edward D. Wood’s outrageous PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE and Fritz Lang’s influential crime horror, M.

Fans of anthologies are in for a treat, with terror tales including DR TERROR’S HOUSE OF HORRORS, starring Peter Cushing, Christopher Lee and Donald Sutherland, the classic black and white Ealing classic DEAD OF NIGHT, THE DEVIL’S MESSENGER, with the legendary

Lon Chaney Jr. and the creepy TALES FROM THE CRYPT, with Ralph Richardson and Joan Collins amongst the star-studded cast.

Then on Sunday nights, at 9pm, there is the Hammer Sunday strand, which this month features channel premieres of the immortal classics THE HORROR OF FRANKENSTEN and THE VAMPIRE LOVERS, plus Terence Fisher’s legendary  THE GORGON, and RASPUTIN: THE MAD MONK.

There is also a channel premiere for MILL OF THE STONE WOMEN, Giorgio Ferroni’s macabre tale of obsession, madness, and art in its most horrifying form

Highlighted films in transmission order:


Fri 1 Sept @ 21:00 – M (1931)

A serial killer (Peter Lorre) is preying on children which leads to a manhunt by both the police and the criminal underworld. As the days pass we witness the psychological torment of the murderer and the societal demand for justice. This innovative, deeply affecting film, directe by Fritz Lang,  marked a significant milestone in the history of cinema.

Fri 1 Sept @ 23:00 –THE NUDE VAMPIRE (1970)

A man becomes inftuated by a young woman only to learn that her father thinks she's a vampire. A quintessential Jean Rollin film and a memorable entry in the realm of avant-garde horror cinema.


Sun 3 Sept @ 21:00 – THE GORGON (1964)
*Part of Hammer Sundays

The legendary creature takes on a human form and begins to terrorise an innocent village by turning its occupants to stone. Directed by Terence Fisher, the movie offers a compelling take on the mythological Gorgon from Greek mythology.


Mon 4 Sept @ 17:00  - DR TERROR’S HOUSE OF HORRORS (1965)

Five strangers on a train encounter the mysterious Dr. Schreck, who uses tarot cards to reveal their terrifying futures. Each story unfolds with suspense, horror, and supernatural elements.  Directed by Freddie Francis, the film has made a cherished entry in the British anthology film tradition


Wed 6 Sept @ 21:00 – THE WHIP AND THE BODY (1963)

A sadistic nobleman, believed to be dead, returns to his ancestral home to haunt his brother and former lover. As a series of brutal lashings occur, the family must uncover the truth behind the spectre and dark family secrets. Mario Bava’s daring blend of horror, melodrama, and eroticism has made it a cult favorite among fans of Gothic horror and Italian cinema.

 
Thurs 7 Sept @ 21:00 – DEEP RED (1975)

After witnessing the murder of a famed psychic, a musician teams up with a reporter to solve the gruesome mystery. They soon find themselves in the crosshairs of a serial killer with a bizarre, yet discernible pattern. To celebrate Argento’s birthday, NYX UK is proud to air a film that is considered a masterpiece of the giallo genre and one of Argento's finest works.


Thurs 7 Sept @ 23:00 – SUSPIRIA (1977)

An American ballet student discovers her prestigious European dance academy is a front for something far more sinister and supernatural. As students mysteriously disappear, she must unravel the academy's dark secrets before becoming the next victim. Argento’s widely regarded classic in the horror genre, is memorable for its vivid use of colour, striking visuals, and haunting score by the progressive rock band Goblin.


Fri 8 Sept @ 21:00 – MARK OF THE DEVIL (1970)

In 1700s Austria, a witch-hunter's apprentice has doubts about the righteousness of witch-hunting when he witnesses the brutality and the torture and the arbitrary killing that go with the job. Michael Armstrong’s graphic classic of its kind, continues to provoke discussion and debate decades after its release


Sat 9 Sept @ 23:00 – LIPS OF BLOOD (1975)

A man's recurring dreams of a mysterious woman lead him to explore his forgotten past and a hidden chateau. As he unravels the secrets, he becomes entangled in a haunting and seductive vampire legend. The film serves as a testament to Rollin's unique contribution to the vampire genre, offering an avant-garde, unorthodox take on the traditional vampire story


Sun 10 Sept August @ 21:00 – THE VAMPIRE LOVERS (1970)
*Part of Hammer Sundays

The beautiful yet deadly Carmilla Karnstein brings her blood-lust to 18th century Germany. "The Vampire Lovers" marked a turning point for Hammer Films, pushing the boundaries of sexual explicitness in its treatment of the vampire legend.Ingrid Pitt delivers a memorable performance as the seductive vampire.

 
Tues 12 Sept @ 21:00 – DRILLER KILLER (1979)

A struggling artist in New York City descends into madness and becomes a serial killer, using a power drill as his weapon of choice. With its gritty, low-budget aesthetic and unflinching portrayal of violence, Abel Ferrara directorial debut has become a controversial and polarising entry in the horror genre.


Thurs 14 Sept @ 17:00 – DEMENTIA 13 (1963)

A widow plans to get her hands on her inheritance unaware a maniac is hiding on her estate. Copolla’s directorial debut remains a fascinating artifact in the director's illustrious career. With its blend of gothic atmosphere, psychological horror, and early slasher elements, it's a must-watch for any classic horror film enthusiast.


Thurs 14 Sept @ 21:00 – DEAD OF NIGHT (1945)

Guests at a country house gather round and tell tales of the supernatural. A British anthology horror film directed by four distinguished filmmakers - Alberto Cavalcanti, Charles Crichton, Basil Dearden, and Robert Hamer, this classic remains a cornerstone of British cinematic history.


Fri 15 Sept @ 17:00 – BLACK SABBATH (1963)

Black Sabbath is an Italian anthology horror film that features three chilling tales of terror, each exploring themes of supernatural horror, psychological suspense, and murder. With a framing device narrated by the iconic Boris Karloff, Maro Bava’s film has become a classic of both Italian and anthology horror.


Sun 17 Sept @ 21:00 – RASPUTIN: THE MAD MONK (1966)
*Part of Hammer Sundays

The most infamous man in Russian history journeys from being an outsider to being the main influencer of royal life, but he holds deadly dark powers. From the revered Hammer Film Productions and directed by Don Sharp, this sublime fusion of historical drama and horror features an indomitable Christopher Lee in the titular role.


Mon 18 Sept @ 21:00 – PHENOMENA (1985)

A girl with the power to communicate with insects is asked to help out in catching a killer. The movie masterfully combines Argento's signature giallo-style thriller elements with a coming-of-age story, all imbued with elements of the supernatural and grotesque. This makse it a standout entry in Argento's canon and a must-see for fans of Italian horror.


Tues 19 Sept @ 17:00 – THE DEVIL’S MESSENGER (1962)

Three deadly tales from Satan himself as he lures unsuspecting souls into eternal doom. This superior anthology, directed by Herbert L. Strock and Curt Siodmak, is a unique blend of horror and the Swedish-American TV series "13 Demon Street". It takes viewers on a chilling journey through three macabre tales, tied together by a devilishly compelling narrative. Starring the legendary Lon Chaney Jr. as Satan.


Thurs 21 Sept @ 17:00 – THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (1960)

Seymour, a hapless florist discovers a strange plant with a taste for human blood. As the plant, named Audrey II, grows larger and more demanding, Seymour must face the consequences of his actions. Roger Corman’s unique blend of genres and memorable characters has earned it a dedicated following and lasting influence in the world of cult cinema.


Thurs 21 Sept @ 21:00 – TENEBRAE (1982)

An author becomes the focus of a deranged killer who is slaughtering anyone connected to his latest work. Renowned for its stylish visuals, brutal violence, and elaborate set pieces, it stands as one of the most distinctive entries in Argento's oeuvre. Its influence can still be seen in many of today's psychological thrillers and horror films, underlining its status as a timeless classic.


Fri 22 Sept @ 19:00 – LAST WOMAN ON EARTH (1960)

When everyone on an island dies a couple must decide how they will survive the future together. This post-apocalyptic science fiction film, directed by Roger Corman, is a unique exploration of human relationships and moral dilemmas in the face of survival,mmaking it a unique and thought-provoking addition to the genre.

Fri 22 Sept @ 23:00 – RAPE OF THE VAMPIRE (1968)

An enigmatic brother and sister lure unsuspecting victims into their vampire cult. As desire and terror intertwine, a dark, surreal tale unfolds, blurring the lines between reality and nightmarish fantasy. Directed by Jean Rollin in his directorial debut, this movie broke the barriers of the conventional horror narrative, introducing erotic and surrealist elements that would later become the filmmaker's signature style.


Sun 24 Sept @ 21:00 – THE HORROR OF FRANKENSTEIN (1970)
*Part of Hammer Sundays

A young Victor Frankenstein delves into forbidden experiments, creating a monstrous creature that sparks a gruesome chain of events. From the iconic Hammer Film Productions, this reimagining of Mary Shelley's timeless tale of gothic horror is flawlessly directed by Jimmy Sangster and introduces Ralph Bates as the ambitious and unscrupulous Victor Frankenstein.


Fri 22 Sept @ 17:00 – BLOOD AND ROSES (1960)

A woman becomes dangerously obsessed with a family curse of vampirism when she suspects her lover is being seduced by her vampiric cousin. As reality and fantasy blur, she must discern truth from hallucination before losing herself to the curse. Rogert Vadim’s exploration of themes such as forbidden desire, duality, and the nature of evil has made it a cult favourite among fans of Gothic horror and vampire tales.


Wed 27 Sept @ 17:00 – THE TINGLER (1959)

A pathologist managers to capture the parasitic creature which grows when its host is gripped with fear. Directed by the master of gimmick-laden cinema, William Castle, this film has become a cult classic, known for its blend of meta-narrative storytelling, creative special effects, and unforgettable cinema gimmicks.


Thurs 28 Sept @ 17:00 – PLAN FROM OUTER SPACE (1957)

Aliens attack the Earth bringing with them their evil "Plan 9", resurrecting the dead to help implement their demented ideas.  Edward D. Wood’s beloved cult classic is a hodgepodge of zombies, aliens, and atomic age paranoia and is an enduring tribute to the filmmaker’s unique vision and passion, making it a compelling journey through the mind of one of Hollywood's most infamous filmmakers.

Fri 29 Sept @ 21:00 – A BUCKET OF BLOOD (1959)

A struggling artist finds twisted inspiration by accidentally creating sculptures with real corpses. As his morbid success grows, he descends into a horrifying world of madness and deception. This black comedy horror, directed by Roger Corman, is a cult classic that stands as a testament to Corman's unique filmmaking style.


Sat 30 Sept @ 21:00 – TALES FROM THE CRYPT (1972)

A Classic anthology, based on stories from the infamous EC Comics series, which sees five strangers given warnings to what awaits in their futures. Directed by Freddie Francis, Its blend of horror, suspense, and dark humour, coupled with memorable performances and a faithful adaptation of its source material, solidify its status as a classic in the horror genre. The stellar  cast includes Peter Cushing, Joan Collins, and Richard Greene.

Sat 30 Sept @ 23:00 – REQUIEM FOR A VAMPIRE (1971)

Lost in the French countryside, a group of friends stumble upon a chateau where an aging vampire and its servants are living. This is one of director Jean Rollin's most recognised works, which stands out for its potent blend of eroticism and horror. The film's exploration of female sexuality and agency within the confines of a vampire cult offers a chilling, provocative, and unforgettable viewing experience.

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www.nyxtv.co.uk

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INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR - On Digital from 21st Aug.

Patrick Wilson (TV’s “Fargo”, Insidious) and Rose Byrne (“Mrs America”, Insidious) are back in the final chapter of the terrifying Insidious horror franchise in INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR – the home premiere is available to buy or rent on digital on Monday 21st August from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

Now the biggest grossing horror movie of 2023, INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR is directed by Patrick Wilson (making his directorial debut) and also stars Ty Simpkins (The Whale, Insidious) and Andrew Astor (The Hangover).

The Lambert family’s horrifying saga continues as they must put the demons of their past to rest once and for all.  Josh (Wilson) and a college-aged Dalton (Simpkins) must go deeper into The Further, facing their family's dark history and a host of new and more shocking terrors that lurk behind The Red Door.

View the Trailer on YouTube

INSIDIOUS: THE RED DOOR is available to buy or rent on Digital on Monday 21st August from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

Watch or Download from Amazon.co.uk

Pre-order the UK BD from Amazon.co.uk (available Dec)

Pre-order the UK DVD from Amazon.co.uk (available Dec)

Amicus Productions Rises from the Grave

After decades in the shadows, the legendary Amicus Productions is set for a grand revival thanks to the team at Hex Studios. Their upcoming film, IN THE GRIP OF TERROR, seeks to honor the classic studio's legacy while forging a new chapter in British horror.


Drawing inspiration from iconic films like 'Dr. Terror's House of Horrors' (1965), 'Tales from the Crypt' (1972), and 'Asylum' (1972), the new portmanteau feature will spotlight four tales rooted in the works of revered authors such as H.P. Lovecraft, Ambrose Bierce, and E.F Benson. With a central theme of medical macabre, the film promises to be a chilling experience. While the full cast list is under wraps, it will feature UK horror stalwarts like Laurence R. Harvey (Human Centipede II) and emerging stars Megan Tremethick (Ghost Crew) Jonathan Hansler (The Devil's Machine) and Michael Daviot (Revenge of Innsmouth).

Guiding the ambitious resurrection is the new president of Amicus Productions, Lawrie Brewster, known for 'The Unkindness of Ravens' (2016), 'The Devil's Machine' (2019), and 'Ghost Crew' (2022). Alongside him is his business partner, writer/producer Sarah Daly. Their efforts come after extensive dialogues and collaboration with the family of Amicus founder Milton Subotsky, who have wholeheartedly endorsed this venture.

But the aspirations of Brewster and team stretch beyond a single film. They are calling upon classic horror aficionados to be part of this cinematic rebirth. A crowdfunding campaign, set to kick off in mid-September, will facilitate the initial stages of the project, driving set construction, original practical effects creation, and talent acquisition. Fans can get a head start by registering for updates on the Amicus Pre-Launch Campaign Page.

Brewster expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Our aim is to re-establish Amicus Productions as a beacon of independent British horror. We're concocting a film that captures the essence and panache that rendered the studio iconic. By emphasizing atmospheric storytelling, tangible effects, and a genuine respect for the genre, our vision is to teleport audiences back to British horror's golden epoch. This venture transcends mere studio revival—it's a renaissance of passion, tribute to a rich legacy, and a testament to indie cinema's prowess."

Brewster also delved into the deep-rooted involvement of the Subotsky family in the project. "The title 'In the Grip of Terror' was generously shared with me by Sergei Subotsky, derived from a list of potential titles his late father, Milton Subotsky, had curated decades ago. It feels profoundly fitting that we're expanding upon the imaginative groundwork set by such a visionary. What's even more fascinating is that three of the four stories we're adapting were suggested by Milton's widow and Sergei's mother, Dr. Fiona Subotsky.'"

Register for updates on the Amicus Pre-Launch Campaign Page.

For continuous updates, follow Hex Studios on @LawrieBrewster on Twitter or at the "British Horror Studio" Facebook Group.

Media inquiries can be directed to Lawrie Brewster, lawriebrewster@hexmedia.tv


Monday 14 August 2023

Survival Horror MERCY FALLS - In selected Cinemas, Sept

Enter MERCY FALLS at your own risk... for a wickedly enthralling survival horror starring acclaimed actor Lauren Lyle (Outlander, Karen Pirie) and directed by award-winning, BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Ryan Hendrick (Lost at Christmas, Sundown). A group of friends’ Scottish hike turns hellish holiday in this gore-filled feature. 


The film is set for a theatrical release on 1 September 2023 with Digital following on 9 November 2023 courtesy of Bingo Films.

This tense and terrifying psychological thriller follows a tight-knit group of friends – Rhona (Lauren Lyle), Heather (Layla Kirk – Two Doors Down), Scott (James Watterson – Kirk), Donnie (Joe Rising – Casualty) and Andy (Eoin Sweeney) – who arrive in the Scottish Highlands in search of a long-lost family cabin… but their trip turns into a nightmare when a fatal accident leads to suspicion, bloody betrayal and brutal murder.

As they travel deeper into the wilderness their journey takes an unexpected turn when the group pick up hitchhiker Carla (Nicolette McKeown – Convergence) and bring her along for the ride… but it quickly becomes apparent that things aren’t quite what they seem...

Arriving at their destination with tensions building and love triangles forming, battle lines are drawn and things take a sinister turn. With revelations abound, the stakes grow higher and a ferocious fight for survival ensues... will anyone make it out alive?

Full of suspense and unrelenting gore, can you survive this twisted trip to MERCY FALLS?

In Cinemas 1st September 2023

On Digital 9th November 2023 

View the Trailer on YouTube


Bizarre Horror GOOD BOY - On Digital platforms, September

GOOD BOY is a chilling and twisted feature from up-and-coming Norwegian filmmakers, Director Viljar Bøe and producer Karl Oskar Åsli (Til Freddy).

In this bold and original Scandinavian horror, Sigrid (Katrine Lovise Øpstad Fredrikse) thinks she’s met the perfect match with the charming and handsome Christian (Gard Løkke, Netflix’s Troll), but there is one catch - he lives with a man who acts like his pet dog. 

Trying to be open-minded, Sigrid continues the relationship but begins to notice an insidious under-tone to Christian. Maybe ‘puppy play’ isn’t as innocent as it seems.

Blue Finch Film Releasing presents GOOD BOY on Digital platforms 11 September

UK premiere at FrightFest on 28 August

View the Trailer on YouTube

If you are planning to see this at FrightFest, check out the official website for more info at https://www.frightfest.co.uk/

Sunday 13 August 2023

Folk-Horror TO FIRE YOU COME AT LAST - Premiering at FrightFest, August.

Step back in time to 17th century rural England for a wickedly enthralling folk horror, TO FIRE YOU COME AT LAST, from writer-director Sean Hogan (Little Deaths, The Devil’s Business)

This mini feature is an atmospheric homage to the great tradition of British supernatural television from the 1970s and gets its world premiere at FrightFest 2023 on Saturday, 26th August, at 6 pm.

A group of men have been entrusted to walk a coffin to the local graveyard for burial. However, the path they must tread is no ordinary route... it’s steeped in ancient folklore and superstitions that make many hesitant to walk it after dark.

Convinced to take on the challenging journey, the group – Squire Mallow (Mark Carlisle – The Crown), Ransley (James Swanton – The Thing That Ate the Birds), a drunken peasant, thuggish manservant Pike (Richard Rowden – Survive) and Holt (Harry Roebuck), the best friend of the deceased – set out on their trek.

As they venture forth, their mission turns dark and they find themselves entangled in quarrels, violence and a series of inexplicable and strange occurrences... As darkness surrounds them, disturbing revelations reveal that things are not as they seem. A malevolent force is after them, but its nature and motive remain shrouded in mystery. Will any of them survive the night?

The screening will be followed by a panel discussion on the film and its relationship to the history of folk horror and British genre television, featuring writer/director Sean Hogan and actor James Swanton, as well as renowned horror writers Kim Newman and John Llewellyn Probert.

Eerie, haunting and stunningly shot –

TO FIRE YOU COME AT LAST will take you on a journey that you might not be expecting, a must-watch.

Screens Saturday 26th August at 6pm – Discovery Screen 2

For more info on this and other films being shown, visit https://www.frightfest.co.uk