Latest Articles
Horror Filmmaker Federico Zampaglione Talks THE WELL Ahead of FrightFest Glasgow
The following is an interview for syndication with Italian director Federico Zampaglione. Ahead of the UK premiere of graphic and disturbing supernatural horror film THE WELL at FrightFest Glasgow 2024, director Federico Zampaglione talks about returning to hardcore horror, working with the late, great Giovanni Lombardo Radice and emerging from the shadow of Italian masters of the genre. So, Federico, THE WELL has its UK premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival, as part of the popular FrightFest event. Excited, or what? Frightfest it’ s the place where everything has started in 2009 and it’s one of the best festivals in the world. I can’ t wait to show THE WELL to the UK fans. What inspired you to make the movie? Wanting to get back on the horror horse! I deeply love this genre, because it speaks to the human soul, investigates our unknown fears and gets lost in deep darkness whilst clinging to a blade of light. THE WELL
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Make Believe Seattle Film Festival’s Year Two Lineup Is a Doozy
From coming-of-age horror and science fiction offerings to darker genre offerings to offbeat documentaries, the second edition of the Make Believe Seattle Film Festival is serving up a wild and wooly array of features and shorts from around the world. Following is the official press announcement. Announcing the complete lineup of films and events for year two of the Make Believe Seattle Film Festival. Make Believe is the region’s first-ever dedicated genre film festival, shining a light on horror, science fiction, fantasy, animation, and more. The festival will screen exclusively in person at Erickson Theatre, Northwest Film Forum, and the Grand Illusion Cinema from March 21-26, 2024. Festival passes, and individual tickets are on sale now and are available at makebelieveseattle.com. The Make Believe Seattle lineup features 38 programs, including narrative features, documentaries, mid-length films, short film blocks, repertory films, live podcasts, filmmaker Q&As, special events, thematic parties, and more. Two films will make their world premieres at Make Believe
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Game ‘Haunted Bloodlines’ Unveils Terrifying Teaser
Prepare to face your deepest fears as Iphigames unveils the chilling teaser trailer for their upcoming psychological horror game, Haunted Bloodlines. This highly anticipated first-person experience promises to send shivers down your spine and challenge your very sanity. Step into the Shadows: The trailer plunges you into the heart of the game’s unsettling narrative. You inherit a sprawling mansion shrouded in darkness, hidden deep within a foreboding forest. What begins as a journey of discovery quickly spirals into a nightmare. Whispers stir in the shadows, strange occurrences defy explanation, and time itself seems to bend within the mansion’s ancient walls. Can you face the truth that lies buried beneath the surface? Are you prepared to question everything you thought you knew about your family? Survival at All Costs: Haunted Bloodlines is not for the faint of heart. This is a game about survival, about clinging to your sanity as unspeakable horrors close in. With no means to fight back, you
Continue reading →
Christian Bale Is Going Bald… For ‘Frankenstein’
Get ready for a monstrous Christian Bale! During a groundbreaking ceremony for his passion project, the Oscar-winning actor revealed his next film: a currently untitled adaptation of Frankenstein directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. This marks Bale’s first collaboration with Gyllenhaal, who will also star in the movie alongside an impressive ensemble cast. The Oscar winner recently told The Hollywood Reporter that’s he’s getting a major haircut for the role. “I’ve got to shave my head next week [for a movie],” he said, referring to the untitled Maggie Gyllenhaal film he’s about to do for Warner Bros. in which he will play Frankenstein. Shooting is expected to start in the coming weeks. “I asked them to please let me hold off on doing that but everyone was going, ‘What’s wrong with Bale? What’s up with him?’ I said, ‘Just let me get through the groundbreaking and then I’ll be off to join you.’” Bale, known for his role in AmericanPNetflix’s fresh off
Continue reading →
Answer the Call: The Horror Movie ‘Cellphone’ Is Out Today
The new horror film Cellphone is set to send shivers down your spine. A chilling exploration of technology and its potential to become a conduit for terror. The film follows Wynne, a young woman still reeling from the tragic death of her fiancé. As she tries to piece together her life, she starts experiencing a series of disturbing premonitions delivered through the most unexpected source: her cellphone. Wynne begins seeing unsettling images on her phone screen. Cryptic messages that seem to predict her future and hint at impending danger. As these visions become increasingly nightmarish, Wynne is forced to confront a terrifying reality: the images are not just random glitches; they are harbingers of death. If she fails to decipher their meaning, she may become the next victim. A Talented Cast and Crew Bring the Story to Life Cellphone boasts a talented cast. It is led by the rising star Whitney Rose Pynn as Wynne. The film also features veteran
Continue reading →
‘Smile 2’ Widens Its Grin: Dylan Gelula Joins Growing Cast
The unnerving world of Smile is set to expand with the upcoming sequel, Smile 2. Its cast grows with the addition of Dylan Gelula (Dream Scenario, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” ), according to Deadline. This news follows the confirmed involvement of Kyle Gallner (reprising his role from the original), Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, and Naomi Scott in the Parker Finn-directed horror film. Smile captivated audiences and raked in an impressive $217 million worldwide in 2022. Practically guaranteeing a follow-up. The sequel comes after Finn secured a multi-year, first-look deal with Paramount Pictures following Smile’s impressive performance. Brian Robbins, Paramount CEO, stated, “Smile’s breakthrough success is a testament to Parker’s unique and fresh filmmaking, and we are thrilled that he will make Paramount his home.” With a talented cast and the proven talent of Finn behind the camera, Smile 2 promises more chilling scares. So, stay tuned for further updates as we inch closer to its October 18, 2024 release. In the
Continue reading →
Destah: A New Beacon of Black Storytelling in the Streaming Universe
Destah, a new wave in streaming, is making waves with its commitment to amplifying Black stories and voices. Powered by the leadership team behind the renowned Atlanta Black Star, the largest Black-owned digital publication in the US, Destah presents a unique and powerful offering. Redefining Streaming, Reshaping Narratives: This free premium video-on-demand platform curates a rich tapestry of culturally themed content specifically for Black audiences. From movies and shorts to TV shows and podcasts, Destah goes beyond entertainment. They are redefining the streaming experience and reshaping the narrative landscape. By providing a platform for Black filmmakers and creators, Destah empowers them to share their vision, igniting conversations and challenging perspectives. Accessibility and Choice: Destah prioritizes viewer experience and accessibility. Its high-quality streaming service is available on a range of devices and operating systems, including Roku, Fire TV, Google Store, Apple TV, Android, and iOS, ensuring everyone can enjoy the diverse content library. From tales of love and survival to films
Continue reading →
Spoiler-Free Short-Film Reviews: “Nian,” “Days of Spring,” Mosquito Lady,” and “A Dire Strait” (Final Girls Berlin Film Festival)
Following are reviews of four of the offerings that screened as part of the 2024 Final Girls Berlin Film Festival’s Folk Horror short-film block. Nian Short chiller Nian (U.S., 2023), finds a Chinese American schoolgirl (Lauren Mei in a delightful performance) standing up to a racist bully with the help of a Chinese demon mask and the supernatural assistance of the titular mythological punisher of naughty children. Director Michelle Krusiec delivers a crisp commentary on racism and bullying that nails its fantasy aspects, with a nice amount of heart behind it. Days of Spring Writer/director Arianne Hinz’s Days of Spring (Netherlands, 2022) is a disturbing peek into the secretive world of a small group of young Dutch girls who surrender their individual wills to the group. Eleven-year-old Roos (Anoek Neervort) has invited her friend Ella (Maeve Hickey) to join the group but begins to question herself when the demands of the girls grows increasingly extreme, including animal sacrifice. Beautifully lensed
Continue reading →
Stephen King’s “Holly” Is Getting a TV Series Adaptation
Get ready for another captivating dive into the mind of Stephen King‘s enigmatic detective, Holly Gibney! A television adaptation of his latest novel, “Holly,” has been confirmed by filmmaker Jack Bender, sending chills of excitement down the spines of King fans everywhere. This thrilling addition to the vast King universe promises to unravel a new mystery while potentially weaving connections to past adaptations of the character. During a Q&A at Chicago’s Printers Row Lit Fest (via CinemaBlend), filmmaker Jack Bender revealed an adaptation of “Holly” is on its way. King’s 2023 crime novel stars Holly Gibney, a recurring character in his stories investigating natural and supernatural mysteries. I’ve been fortunate to know and work with Stephen King – talking about writers. His new book Holly, by the way, is great. We’re going to make a show out of that. We haven’t announced it. Connections: The question on everyone’s mind is: how will the series handle Holly’s established history? Several intriguing
Continue reading →
Five Must-See Upcoming Movies and Series Coming to Netflix
Buckle up, thrill-seekers! Netflix is serving up a buffet of suspenseful, thrilling, and chilling upcoming releases, and here are five you absolutely can’t miss: 1. Squid Game Season 2: The global phenomenon returns! Get ready for more mind-bending games, life-or-death stakes, and shocking twists in the second season of this Korean survival drama. Premiere: Unannounced 2. Damsel: “Stranger Things” actress Millie Bobby Brown takes center stage as a princess with a deadly twist. Don’t let the fairy tale facade fool you – this damsel isn’t waiting for rescue. She’s fighting for her life. Premiere: March 8 3. Rebel Moon: Part Two: The rebellion continues! Join Kora and her warriors as they face off against the tyrannical Realm in this epic sci-fi adventure. Prepare for stunning visuals, thrilling battles, and the return of some familiar faces. Premiere: April 19 4. Carry On: Don’t judge a book (or package) by its cover! A young TSA agent gets entangled in a dangerous conspiracy
Continue reading →More latest articles
Horror Filmmaker Federico Zampaglione Talks THE WELL Ahead of FrightFest Glasgow
The following is an interview for syndication with Italian director Federico Zampaglione. Ahead of the UK premiere of graphic and disturbing supernatural horror film THE WELL at FrightFest Glasgow 2024, director Federico Zampaglione talks about returning to hardcore horror, working with the late, great Giovanni Lombardo Radice and emerging from the shadow of Italian masters of the genre. So, Federico, THE WELL has its UK premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival, as part of the popular FrightFest event. Excited, or what? Frightfest it’ s the place where everything has started in 2009 and it’s one of the best festivals in the world. I can’ t wait to show THE WELL to the UK fans. What inspired you to make the movie? Wanting to get back on the horror horse! I deeply love this genre, because it speaks to the human soul, investigates our unknown fears and gets lost in deep darkness whilst clinging to a blade of light. THE WELL
Continue reading →
Make Believe Seattle Film Festival’s Year Two Lineup Is a Doozy
From coming-of-age horror and science fiction offerings to darker genre offerings to offbeat documentaries, the second edition of the Make Believe Seattle Film Festival is serving up a wild and wooly array of features and shorts from around the world. Following is the official press announcement. Announcing the complete lineup of films and events for year two of the Make Believe Seattle Film Festival. Make Believe is the region’s first-ever dedicated genre film festival, shining a light on horror, science fiction, fantasy, animation, and more. The festival will screen exclusively in person at Erickson Theatre, Northwest Film Forum, and the Grand Illusion Cinema from March 21-26, 2024. Festival passes, and individual tickets are on sale now and are available at makebelieveseattle.com. The Make Believe Seattle lineup features 38 programs, including narrative features, documentaries, mid-length films, short film blocks, repertory films, live podcasts, filmmaker Q&As, special events, thematic parties, and more. Two films will make their world premieres at Make Believe
Continue reading →
Game ‘Haunted Bloodlines’ Unveils Terrifying Teaser
Prepare to face your deepest fears as Iphigames unveils the chilling teaser trailer for their upcoming psychological horror game, Haunted Bloodlines. This highly anticipated first-person experience promises to send shivers down your spine and challenge your very sanity. Step into the Shadows: The trailer plunges you into the heart of the game’s unsettling narrative. You inherit a sprawling mansion shrouded in darkness, hidden deep within a foreboding forest. What begins as a journey of discovery quickly spirals into a nightmare. Whispers stir in the shadows, strange occurrences defy explanation, and time itself seems to bend within the mansion’s ancient walls. Can you face the truth that lies buried beneath the surface? Are you prepared to question everything you thought you knew about your family? Survival at All Costs: Haunted Bloodlines is not for the faint of heart. This is a game about survival, about clinging to your sanity as unspeakable horrors close in. With no means to fight back, you
Continue reading →
Christian Bale Is Going Bald… For ‘Frankenstein’
Get ready for a monstrous Christian Bale! During a groundbreaking ceremony for his passion project, the Oscar-winning actor revealed his next film: a currently untitled adaptation of Frankenstein directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. This marks Bale’s first collaboration with Gyllenhaal, who will also star in the movie alongside an impressive ensemble cast. The Oscar winner recently told The Hollywood Reporter that’s he’s getting a major haircut for the role. “I’ve got to shave my head next week [for a movie],” he said, referring to the untitled Maggie Gyllenhaal film he’s about to do for Warner Bros. in which he will play Frankenstein. Shooting is expected to start in the coming weeks. “I asked them to please let me hold off on doing that but everyone was going, ‘What’s wrong with Bale? What’s up with him?’ I said, ‘Just let me get through the groundbreaking and then I’ll be off to join you.’” Bale, known for his role in AmericanPNetflix’s fresh off
Continue reading →
Answer the Call: The Horror Movie ‘Cellphone’ Is Out Today
The new horror film Cellphone is set to send shivers down your spine. A chilling exploration of technology and its potential to become a conduit for terror. The film follows Wynne, a young woman still reeling from the tragic death of her fiancé. As she tries to piece together her life, she starts experiencing a series of disturbing premonitions delivered through the most unexpected source: her cellphone. Wynne begins seeing unsettling images on her phone screen. Cryptic messages that seem to predict her future and hint at impending danger. As these visions become increasingly nightmarish, Wynne is forced to confront a terrifying reality: the images are not just random glitches; they are harbingers of death. If she fails to decipher their meaning, she may become the next victim. A Talented Cast and Crew Bring the Story to Life Cellphone boasts a talented cast. It is led by the rising star Whitney Rose Pynn as Wynne. The film also features veteran
Continue reading →
‘Smile 2’ Widens Its Grin: Dylan Gelula Joins Growing Cast
The unnerving world of Smile is set to expand with the upcoming sequel, Smile 2. Its cast grows with the addition of Dylan Gelula (Dream Scenario, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” ), according to Deadline. This news follows the confirmed involvement of Kyle Gallner (reprising his role from the original), Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, and Naomi Scott in the Parker Finn-directed horror film. Smile captivated audiences and raked in an impressive $217 million worldwide in 2022. Practically guaranteeing a follow-up. The sequel comes after Finn secured a multi-year, first-look deal with Paramount Pictures following Smile’s impressive performance. Brian Robbins, Paramount CEO, stated, “Smile’s breakthrough success is a testament to Parker’s unique and fresh filmmaking, and we are thrilled that he will make Paramount his home.” With a talented cast and the proven talent of Finn behind the camera, Smile 2 promises more chilling scares. So, stay tuned for further updates as we inch closer to its October 18, 2024 release. In the
Continue reading →
Destah: A New Beacon of Black Storytelling in the Streaming Universe
Destah, a new wave in streaming, is making waves with its commitment to amplifying Black stories and voices. Powered by the leadership team behind the renowned Atlanta Black Star, the largest Black-owned digital publication in the US, Destah presents a unique and powerful offering. Redefining Streaming, Reshaping Narratives: This free premium video-on-demand platform curates a rich tapestry of culturally themed content specifically for Black audiences. From movies and shorts to TV shows and podcasts, Destah goes beyond entertainment. They are redefining the streaming experience and reshaping the narrative landscape. By providing a platform for Black filmmakers and creators, Destah empowers them to share their vision, igniting conversations and challenging perspectives. Accessibility and Choice: Destah prioritizes viewer experience and accessibility. Its high-quality streaming service is available on a range of devices and operating systems, including Roku, Fire TV, Google Store, Apple TV, Android, and iOS, ensuring everyone can enjoy the diverse content library. From tales of love and survival to films
Continue reading →
Spoiler-Free Short-Film Reviews: “Nian,” “Days of Spring,” Mosquito Lady,” and “A Dire Strait” (Final Girls Berlin Film Festival)
Following are reviews of four of the offerings that screened as part of the 2024 Final Girls Berlin Film Festival’s Folk Horror short-film block. Nian Short chiller Nian (U.S., 2023), finds a Chinese American schoolgirl (Lauren Mei in a delightful performance) standing up to a racist bully with the help of a Chinese demon mask and the supernatural assistance of the titular mythological punisher of naughty children. Director Michelle Krusiec delivers a crisp commentary on racism and bullying that nails its fantasy aspects, with a nice amount of heart behind it. Days of Spring Writer/director Arianne Hinz’s Days of Spring (Netherlands, 2022) is a disturbing peek into the secretive world of a small group of young Dutch girls who surrender their individual wills to the group. Eleven-year-old Roos (Anoek Neervort) has invited her friend Ella (Maeve Hickey) to join the group but begins to question herself when the demands of the girls grows increasingly extreme, including animal sacrifice. Beautifully lensed
Continue reading →
Stephen King’s “Holly” Is Getting a TV Series Adaptation
Get ready for another captivating dive into the mind of Stephen King‘s enigmatic detective, Holly Gibney! A television adaptation of his latest novel, “Holly,” has been confirmed by filmmaker Jack Bender, sending chills of excitement down the spines of King fans everywhere. This thrilling addition to the vast King universe promises to unravel a new mystery while potentially weaving connections to past adaptations of the character. During a Q&A at Chicago’s Printers Row Lit Fest (via CinemaBlend), filmmaker Jack Bender revealed an adaptation of “Holly” is on its way. King’s 2023 crime novel stars Holly Gibney, a recurring character in his stories investigating natural and supernatural mysteries. I’ve been fortunate to know and work with Stephen King – talking about writers. His new book Holly, by the way, is great. We’re going to make a show out of that. We haven’t announced it. Connections: The question on everyone’s mind is: how will the series handle Holly’s established history? Several intriguing
Continue reading →
Five Must-See Upcoming Movies and Series Coming to Netflix
Buckle up, thrill-seekers! Netflix is serving up a buffet of suspenseful, thrilling, and chilling upcoming releases, and here are five you absolutely can’t miss: 1. Squid Game Season 2: The global phenomenon returns! Get ready for more mind-bending games, life-or-death stakes, and shocking twists in the second season of this Korean survival drama. Premiere: Unannounced 2. Damsel: “Stranger Things” actress Millie Bobby Brown takes center stage as a princess with a deadly twist. Don’t let the fairy tale facade fool you – this damsel isn’t waiting for rescue. She’s fighting for her life. Premiere: March 8 3. Rebel Moon: Part Two: The rebellion continues! Join Kora and her warriors as they face off against the tyrannical Realm in this epic sci-fi adventure. Prepare for stunning visuals, thrilling battles, and the return of some familiar faces. Premiere: April 19 4. Carry On: Don’t judge a book (or package) by its cover! A young TSA agent gets entangled in a dangerous conspiracy
Continue reading →