Movie Review: Wyrmwood: Road of the Dead (2014)

From the first time I watched a trailer via a friends Facebook share, I have been looking forward to seeing Wyrmwood. Even thought the trailer I saw was nothing more than a 30 second teaser, I could still see the potential and so when I spotted a copy in my local HMV, I quickly snapped it up with the intention of watching it immediately. The night came, the kids were asleep and the drinks were ready so in went the newly purchased Blu-ray disc and away we went.

The film begins with a future event which perfectly sets the scene of what we are about to enjoy and enjoy is a very mediocre way of describing this film. I don't know about you but I think the Zombie genre has become very stale of late, left to stagnate and rot thanks greatly to the poor efforts of The Walking Dead. Hollywood has an uncanny knack of taking something which has, over a long period of time garnered an impressive following and admiration and turning it into something “for the masses” which ultimately pushes the old faithful away.

I may be talking from personal opinion and the few true Zombie aficionados that I have encountered but the Zombie fan, I mean the real lumbering, shuffling zombie fan does not like The Walking Dead or what it has done for future entries into the zombie category. While World War Z was enjoyable in parts, it didn't live up to the book and certainly didn't light the genre up like it had promised. I much prefer the truly original entries into the fray. Films like Pontypool which put an extremely brave twist on the genre and one I watched recently called Open Grave* which may not be your typical zombie film but in trying something new, they have gained huge points in my eyes (*Review to come).

Anyway, on the surface, Wyrmwood appears to be an example of the aforementioned stale and stagnating variety however there is more originality in this 98 minute long feature than The Walking Dead has mustered in five seasons! Ok, forgive me, I really dislike the Walking Dead and I may not gain many fans for my opinions but they are that! My opinions...

Following a meteor shower a zombie outbreak plunges the world into chaos. We follow Barry who is trying to get to his sister Brooke. He is joined along the way by Benny and Frank as they battle zombies and the military in a frantic fight for survival. As always, I'm not giving any of the plot away on the off chance you haven't already seen this movie and like me, enjoy watching films for yourself without having them spoiled by idiotic publications and critics who think you only read their posts because you don't want to watch films for yourself!

With a cast totally unknown to me, Wyrmwood was a breath of fresh air. Jay Gallagher whose portrayal of the main protagonist Barry, was instantly likeable and he is joined on his journey by Leon Burchill playing the part of Benny and Keith Agius as Frank. The cast is rounded off by Bianca Bradey who plays Brooke, Barry's sister. The mix of kick-ass action, suspense and humour is perfect

and the balance between the cast makes this film a truly enjoyable experience.

Upon the films conclusion, I found myself wanting more. It has always taken a lot for me to dislike something which is why it's unusual to so many that I don't like the Walking Dead but for me to instantly want more after a film is finished is a huge compliment. I have my fingers crossed for a sequel and while it is only rumoured at the moment, I'm hoping the success of this film will be enough to persuade them to make another.

I would highly recommend this film to all, whether you're a fan of Zombie films or not. It has everything you could possibly want. An enjoyable and at times hilarious film with zombies in it. Ticks all the boxes really!

Released: 2014

My Rating: 8

Movie Review: The Dyatlov Pass Incident (2013)

I picked this film up some time a go during one of my “customers also bought” Amazon spending sprees. As with most, it arrived and promptly founds itself placed neatly on my shelf to await such an opportunity to grace my TV screen.

Having watched a trailer for a film called The Devils Pass, I went to add it to my wish-list and was happy to learn that I already own it only under a different name. So The Devils Pass or The Dyatlov Pass Incident which ever you want to call it, was set off and I settled down to enjoy.

I had already gathered from the trailer that I was once again stepping into the world of the Found Footage variety. As someone who is possibly in a small group of people who love found footage genre no matter how it comes, I was looking forward to seeing what joy's this attempt would bring.

We're given a very impressive back story and introduced to the main characters who we'll be getting to know over the next 100 minutes or so, immediately sucked in and liking what I was seeing.

The story of the original incident is really quite interesting. A real incident that befouled a group of Russian skiers back in 1959. The group led by Igor Dyatlov, were discovered in the snow at various locations having mysteriously fled their camp site abruptly one night. There must have been an immediate or sudden threat as some were found barefoot. More intriguingly was the fact that even though there was no sign of a struggle a couple of the ill fated group had suffered serious injuries.

 

The film itself introduces us to Holly King, a student who has been researching the incident. Her work has been rewarded by a grant in order to allow continued research in mother Russia herself! Co-Director Jenson, sound engineer Denise and “expert” climbers J.P and Andy make up the rest of the group and after a small intro, they set off on their adventure!

A twist I've always liked is when the film begins by telling us the fate of the characters, it doesn't always work and sometimes it can spoil a good film but when done correctly, it allows us to relax and enjoy the film knowing that we are simply watching how events unfolded in a very candid and somewhat voyeuristic way. Blair Witch nailed it and this film gives it a pretty good go too!

As usual I'm not going into any more detail, I'm afraid if you want to know what happened to them, you'll just have to watch the film. If you do decide to watch it, you may, like me be pleasantly surprised. A very well made and well acted film which will keep you gripped all the way through. Even if one of those actors is Gemma Atkinson. A very likeable and good actress who has the unfortunate stigma of having starred in a British soap called Hollyoaks. Soap's are like anti-television and something I have never really understood but then I suppose you have to start somewhere, lets face it you, if you're from Australia, chances are you started out in either Home and Away or Neighbours! Maybe a few exceptions.... but not many! It doesn't always work that way in the British isles however. I can't think of too many successful transitions from Eastenders or Corrie to Hollywood but what do I know?

Anyway...

I have always found it difficult to critique films of any variety but especially horror films. It takes a very special something for me to dislike a film. I'm not the kind of person who says things like “seen one seen them all” I would much rather just see what other film makers can do with a similar premise. So with this film, despite it basically being a love child of The Blair Witch Project and The Chernobyl Diaries, there is nothing to dislike! Those are two of my favourite films after all.

Couple the back story being a true story along with my fascination with Russia and its super secretive history, The Dyatlov Pass Incident was fully enjoyable and one which I'm sure I'll watch again and again. This genre of film is brilliant at hiding things in plain sight and even as I watch The Blair Witch and Chernobyl Diaries again, I still discover new things! After all, it usually takes at least two viewings to take in all that there is to see! Or is that just me?

Year Released: 2013

My Rating: 7.5

Movie Review: The Realm aka The Ouija Experiment (2011)

I sometimes forget where I pick these films up, this one was either 1p on Amazon (Thanks Zoverstocks) or it was £1 in Poundland. Either way, its been in my collection for a while and I randomly selected it for viewing.

I learned a long time ago that in no way should you ever judge how good a film may or may not be by the content of its cover. This is no exception. On first glance, a very professional looking cover with a picture that is vague enough to have you instantly intrigued. It even included a cardboard sleeve slip case for extra professionalism. Whichever way you look at it, I was impressed by the presentation. But, what about the important thing, the film itself???

We follow Brandon, You Tube “Star” with a whole 20 views and his friend Shay who is taking Brandon to her, stay with me on this, “hot boy friends” best friend, Michael's house! Still with me? Good!

Upon arrival the pair are met by Lynette who is said “hot boyfriends” sister. “Hot boyfriend” will henceforth be known as Calvin and as we are introduced to Michael, the whole group is now ready to begin.

Once the pleasantries are dealt with, Michael informs the group that they are all in fact there to enjoy a leisurely game of Ouija Board! As you do... The group begin their game and we are treated to the stereotypical spectrum of reactions. From “Its real” all the way down to jovial scepticism, the whole thing feels a bit silly at first. What ensues turns this innocent game into a dangerous game of cat and mouse!

So, when we drill it down, The Realm had the feel of a low budget You Tube film. The script was so-so and the delivery was believable enough to hold it all together. Fortunately for the viewer we are treated to a few frights, seldom seen low budget or Random Horror Films.

Nothing in this world is scarier to the average red blooded man than the female of the species and even more so when that female is 5 years old and... oh yeah, dead! The Little Girl Ghost has always been a creepy prospect for me, ghost stories as a kid and of course the twins from the eerie hallways of the Overlook Hotel!

The Realm features some very satisfying scenes. Anyone who has seen the You Tube video of the girl ghost crying in a hallway will appreciate some of the scenes in this film. I am not deluded enough to believe that the videos people post of “Real Ghost Captured on camera” are real but I enjoy watching them purely for how inventive and well made some of them are. There's a definite artistry involved!

The Realm doesn't quite deliver on its early promise but it did have a few scenes that was enough to make me enjoy watching, even if it did take a few detours along its way towards a slight twist ending. The only reaction that could be generated with the telegraphed “twist” however was “I saw that coming!”

So, for the guts of it, The Realm feels low budget and I suppose it should, according to IMdB, the budget for this film was $1,200! With that knowledge, I am more than impressed with what the film makers managed to achieve. Its definitely worth a watch but don't expect too much!
 

Year Released: 2011
 

My Rating: 5.5

Movie Review: Sanatorium (2013)

While out and about doing my weekly shop, I came across a DVD with the tell tale “After Dark Original” banner splashed across the top of the case. I'm something of a Blu-Ray snob these days, so much so that I have just started archiving all of my DVD's in cool little Disc selector while re-buying some of the better ones on BD but its not everyday I find an After Dark Original in my local Tesco store so I made an exception. In hindsight I could of ordered the Blu-Ray on Amazon but I needed something to watch that night so I just bought it.

Now I haven't reviewed as many of the After Dark titles as perhaps I should have but I have about 12 in total. From memory, The Task and Husk are probably among the better ones with only The Scream of the Banshee being on the poor side, from the ones I've watched so far.

I suppose most people would be saying. Oh no! Not another found footage film about a group of paranormal investigators in some cliché ridden abandoned house with a wonderfully sinister back story!

Personally, I love them! Although the quality varies and some are bordering on the criminal. Every now and then one stands out and succeeds at creating something enjoyable and fun.

With Sanatorium the group are called The Ghost Trackers and for their 100^th episode they have travelled to the 'notorious' Hillcrest Sanatorium for a night of spook spotting. With an impressive build up story complete with details of a grizzly murder/suicide involving a mental patient and some children, the group set up the standard equipment and begin their investigation.

On the anniversary of the murderer's suicide, The Ghost Trackers go through the usual paranormal investigation rituals. The time honoured EMF reader, digital recorders, infra-red imaging and even motion sensors equipped with an alarm that sounds whenever they're triggered. All good touches.

There is very little to say in terms of storyline because as most will know, all of these films are very similar. Its the little differences that set the good ones apart. Satisfactory acting coupled with a good script tick those boxes. In terms of actual scares, the fear factor for Sanatorium is generated more by what you think you saw as opposed to what they actually show us. I have seen some terrible versions where the apparitions are on full display in all their CGI 'glory' but executed so badly, it eliminates any semblance of atmosphere and fear. No problems like that here though as we are treated to a few creepy moments and the odd jump.

If I have one criticism, it is that where they succeed in maintaining a creepy atmosphere, they did not utilise that to its full potential. I think a little too much time was wasted getting them into the building and not enough time focusing on the build up to the final “showdown”. One of my favourite's from this category, Grave Encounters found the mix perfectly and should be the benchmark for all others.

Saying that, films I have seen recently like The Speak and Episode 50 fail miserably, so finding that balance is the most important aspect for any future hand held ghost hunter style horror film.

After all is said and done, Sanatorium impressed me and I can say I wholly enjoyed the experience. I would watch it again, if only to see if I can spot more hidden “what was that” moments.

After a small bit of research, I think the Hillcrest Sanatorium is actually a real place. Located in Howell, MI, it did house people with TB. I can't comment on the story given in the film and I'm fairly sure the actual filming location is somewhere totally different. Still, it is quite unnerving to try and imagine the pain and suffering that was felt within walls of places like this...

Released: 2013

My Rating: 6.5

Movie Review: Deliver Us from Evil (2014)

As readers of mine may or may not be aware, I have an unrivalled hatred for the “classic” that is The Exorcist. In my humblest of opinions, the single worst “big” horror film ever spawned. That does not make me completely averse to the Possession sub-genre. In fact, The Devil Within proved to be very entertaining indeed but the less said about The Last Exorcism and its unholy sequel the better!

I would probably put Eric Bana in the bracket of “bigger” Hollywood stars and it is nice to see some bigger names appearing in these types of films instead of using them as a stepping stone to something bigger.

The film carries its own pedigree, Directed by Scott Derrickson whose previous film was the brilliant Sinister. Another bigger horror film starring an established Hollywood actor (Ethan Hawke) and his possession experience spans to the film prior to that, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, which put a very enjoyable twist on the sub-genre.

When you stand back and take a look, Deliver us from Evil promises a lot. The question is however... Does it work? Short answer, Yes. I suppose I should talk about the film itself really, so here goes.

With Deliver us from Evil, we have another slightly different offering for the possession mould. If I knew nothing about the film before watching it, I wouldn't be blamed for thinking I had just started watching a crime thriller. In reality, that's not too far from the truth. Eric Bana stars as New York Police Officer Sarchie who along with his partner Butler, played by Joel McHale begin investigating a strange series of events.

When a woman seemingly goes crazy and throws her infant son into the lion enclosure at Brooklyn Zoo, the partners find themselves delving deep into the depths of demonic possession. After being joined by catholic priest and exorcist, Mendoza played by Edgar Ramirez, Sarchie unravels a mystery which threatens to engulf even his own family.

At first, I was unsure how to take this film. The acting is certainly of a high standard and the storyline is quite captivating but the way its filmed made me feel that maybe the budget was slightly heavy on the recruitment side. Its not terrible but it just didn't feel like a Hollywood effort that one might expect from Derrickson. Not to mention a production credit for Jerry Bruckheimer. Once I had got used to the way it looked though, I was able to really sit back and enjoy it.

I didn't know much about it before watching but I did remember seeing a trailer for it a while back after one of the more creepy scenes involving Sarchies' daughter and a stuffed owl!

 

All in all, Deliver us from Evil was fairly good. It didn't set the world alight but the use of The Doors' songs certainly put a smile on my face. One of my all time favourite bands and with the song People are strange, really quite fitting!

 

I have to make a special mention for Sean Harris who plays a character called Santino. He is the main focus of the evil and cuts a sinister figure on screen. I first saw Harris, who hails from England, in a music video for the song Stop Me by Mark Ronson. His role in Harry Brown alongside Michael Caine was brilliant and apparently it was that role which made Derrickson cast him in this film without even having an interview! *interesting wikipedia fact.

After watching, I did a very small bit of research and I discovered that the film is supposed to be based on real life events as detailed in the book Beware the Night written by the real life Ralph Sarchie. On further reading though, it doesn't actually use any of the cases written by the NYPD officer turned demonologist.

Watch it, make of it what you will but hopefully, like me you will find a fair amount of enjoyment in the whole experience.

Released: 2014

My Rating: 7

Movie Review: Alien Abduction (2014)

So, here it is. My first blog entry in nearly two years and I have decided to review one of the many films I watched last year which, in my humble opinion, was extremely underrated.

I don't think the world has given enough love to the found footage sub-genre of Horror films. A sub-genre which I find highly enjoyable, as evidenced by some of my past posts, Skew, Grave Encounters and V/H/S to name but a few and of course, my number one horror film The Blair Witch Project.

The love for this sub-genre, sadly died almost as quickly as it had emerged. From the seldom seen gems like said Witch project to a barrage of low budget, sub-standard and almost identical blunders, it could be easy to see why.

As I said though, every now and then we find a film which not only reignites our love for a certain sub-genre but reminds us why we ever loved it at all!

Alien Abduction follows the Morris family whose autistic son Riley, is capturing the families camping trip on film. Along with his Brother, Sister and parents the family begin to fall foul to strange occurrences. Jumps, jumps and a few more jumps along with the occasional “did I just see that” moment keep things moving along very swimmingly. Some good characterisation is built as the film plays out and the ever present Riley, does a great job with the camera.

Riley's autism brilliantly lends itself to a very plausible explanation for the continuous filming. An aspect that a lot of found footage films glaze over with the time honoured “People need to see” excuse but in reality, why is the camera not the first thing to find itself flung to the floor as the rational people run for safety?

The film obviously includes more than that and when I say more, I really do mean it but I, as always do not like to give anything away and that includes the very basic of basic!

Having read a few other reviews of this film I was disappointed and somewhat surprised to learn that my enthusiasm for this film was not shared by many, if any at all. What some might call formulaic and predictable, I might call... well. Formulaic and predicable but why is that necessarily a bad thing? Sometimes when you watch a horror film or a sci-fi film or any film for that matter it really shouldn't make any difference if you predicted what was going to happen or who was going to bite the dust. Relax, enjoy it, it's not a competition to see who is the best wannabe Director. If you think you're that good, do it!

I don't buy into the Academy way of watching films where only films with a message or cultural relevance can be viewed as good or acceptable. If I watch a film and I don't find myself checking the timer to see how long is left, then there is a good chance I enjoyed it!

While the storyline is not the most original, the film is full of little treats for the eyes, good acting and a level of tension is generated that befits a film of this subject matter. As the camera rolls and the story progresses, we lose some of the tension but not to the point where we lose all interest.

I cant change anyone's opinion and I don't try to, I simply put my own views on films across and if you disagree, that's your opinion. Funny how that works hey? If you haven't already seen this and you've just read my “review” to try and influence your decision on whether to watch it or not, please do but don't watch it expecting to see the greatest film ever made, or even something to make your top 500. Instead watch it the way I watch all films... Suspend all belief, have no expectations and just enjoy it for what it is. A low budget but well made hand held film about aliens. Alien it is not be but then again, how many films can claim they've come anywhere close what is in my opinion the bar for the sci-fi/horror genre?

Year Released: 2014
 

My Rating: 7