SCREAM: FRANCHISES NEVER DIE

 

 

When it comes to hugely successful movies, especially horror films, studios will find a way to ensure that the movie never stops. Every character in the movie except one could die, including the bad guy, and they will find another way to resurrect the series with something new. For the most part a series like this will falter at some point and the series will die only to be rebooted by a Hollywood lacking new ideas. But on occasion the series will turn out to not only remain successful but to have a whole run of good films as well. Such is the case with the new SCREAM movie.

The first SCREAM came out in 1996, 26 years ago, to huge success. Directed by Wes Craven and written by Kevin Williamson it told the story of two psychopaths who were killing the teens in Woodsboro, CA. The fun of the film was that it was a horror film that at the same time made fun of the tropes of horror films. One character even listed the rules of things that took place in every modern horror movie. This film was followed by three more films all with the same director and writer except one. With the passing of Craven it would have seemed the series would end. Not so.

Directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett along with writers James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick are keeping the series going with this new release that reverts to simply using the original’s name of SCREAM. When looking for it just check the year to make sure you grab the right one, this one is 2022. Taking the old formula and making it still feel original is something they’ve done here and in so doing have made it remain as fun as it was the first time.

Taking place 25 years after the first series of murders that took place in Woodsboro things are slightly different. Dewey (David Arquette) is no longer sheriff having fallen apart after his divorce from TV celeb Gale Weathers (Courtney Cox). Sidney Prescott (Never Campbell) has moved away. And the killers of the previous films are all gone.

Now a new Ghostface killer is on the loose. High school student Tara Carpenter (Jenna Ortega) is home alone and attacked by the new Ghostface left alive and taken to the hospital. Miles away in Modesto her sister Sam Carpenter (Melissa Barrera) is told by one of Tara’s friends, Wes Hicks (Dylan Minnette), about the attack. Fearing for her sister she decides to return to Woodsboro and her boyfriend Richie Kirsch (Jack Quaid) insists on going with her.

Tara’s friends are all there to support her when Sam returns to visit her. When they have time alone they talk and Sam is forced to explain to her sister why she abandoned her all those years ago and left Woodsboro. She had left Woodsboro because she had learned that her biological father was Billy Loomis (Skeet Ulrich), one of the two original killers. Afraid she might carry on his legacy she left to save Tara. But she’s been having visions of Billy lately and now worries this is all coming true.

Sam and Richie go in search of help from the one man who has faced down every Ghostface that’s come along, Dewey. At first he refuses to help but eventually his sense of duty prevails and he agrees. When word of the new killings gets out two more faces from the past return as well. Gale shows up to cover the story taking place, the new killing that have followed the first attempted murder and Sidney who arrives because of…that is better left unsaid. With the two strong female leads back in town to stand alongside Tara and Sam the new Ghostface doesn’t stand a chance. Or does he?

Once more the tropes of horror films are taken to task, in this case those of horror sequels. The number of suspects remains high as they have in the rest of the series but so is the body count. Thankfully not so much of the past films needs be in your memory as this film moves forward. It contains the saddest moment in the entire series and delivers not just the mystery but the scares as well.

The best part is that the cast from the original has all come back again to stick with this series. Nothing is worse than seeing someone inserted into a role made familiar by another actor or having a character either disappear or simply killed off screen when an actor doesn’t return. All of the returns here are great performances and a welcome sight to fans.

The film is dedicated to Wes Craven and there is little doubt he would have enjoyed the film. It lives up to the expectations put in place by the four previous films to be entertaining and to keep you guessing. That rarely happens. In this case the result is a movie worth picking up and adding to your collection.

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THE ABOMINABLE DR. PHIBES/DR. PHIBES RISES AGAIN: A PERFECT COMBINATION

 

 

Vincent Price was an actor who never seemed to receive the credit that he so richly deserved. A leading man in numerous films he never really hit his stride until he began taking the lead in horror films. The early sixties saw him rise to stardom in a series of film made with director Roger Corman based on the tales of Edgar Allan Poe. While those films are some of his best his roles waned again until he portrayed Dr. Anton Phibes in 1971. Kino Lorber is releasing both of the Phibes films together for the first time on Blu-ray and they’ve done a great job. 

If you’ve not seen either do so immediately. THE ABOMINABLE DR. PHIBES features Price in the lead role, an inventor/theologian/organist who supposedly died 4 years earlier has returned to seek vengeance on the team of doctors he feels are responsible for the death of his beloved wife Victoria (an uncredited Caroline Munro). With the help of the beautiful and silent servant Vulnavia he takes them out one at a time in no ordinary fashion, instead using the ten plagues that beset the Egyptians in the Bible. With each death he returns to his hidden sanctuary, placing an amulet for each plague around a bust of the victim made of wax he then melts. 

Scotland Yard led by Detective Inspector Trout (Peter Jeffrey) are baffled by the deaths taking out various members of the medical field. Consulting with Dr. Vesalius (Joseph Cotton) then discover the one thing all the victims had in common was a failed surgery earlier involving Phibes’ wife Victoria. They attempt to protect each of those members but fail miserably to do so. Each death brings Phibes closer to his final victim, Vesalius. 

The movie is gorgeously filmed with some of the most amazing sets and contraptions found on film. From the art deco styles of Phibes home to the mechanical musicians playing music there, the sets look like a major studio production in spite of the film being made by American International. The costumes are stunning to look at as well. 

Director Robert Fuest handles the film with a skill that allows him to combine horror, drama, comedy and romance all into one film where it would seem they could never work together. And yet they do from start to finish. The horror stems from the ingenious kills which would never be matched again until the SAW series of films. The comedy from the light touches throughout the film and visual gags to match. The drama from the story of those who are victims. The romance in the deep rooted love of Phibes for his wife that drives the story forward. 

Watching the movie again for perhaps the 6^th time I found it to be as enjoyable as it was the first time I saw it, perhaps even more. While over the top and at times purposefully played for camp, the movie is near perfect in all the elements it took to pull it together. This film alone is one worth adding to your collection for keeps.

But, as they say, there’s more. A year later the same group came out with DR. PHIBES RISES AGAIN. It seems our villain didn’t die at the end of the first film but placed himself in suspended animation alongside the preserved body of his beloved Victoria. A pre-set system put in place to reanimate him when the moon hit a certain cycle, he rises with the intention of taking her body to Egypt where he hopes to give both of them eternal life. 

But Phibes is not the only one with plans in Egypt. Wealthy archeologist and socialite Darius Biederbeck (Robert Quarry) has stolen the hidden papyrus that Phibes was in possession of. He and his own group are also headed to Egypt with only Biederbeck aware of what lies there. Now both race for the hidden tomb there with the dogged Trout once more in pursuit. 

Not quite as good as the first film this one once more has that near perfect combination to make it a fun film that will keep you guessing and watching from beginning to end. When put together as a double feature it is pure fun at the movies to watch. 

Kino Lorber has given us very little here in the form of extras, mainly audio commentary tracks by different film scholars and trailers for the films and others. It is the movies themselves that warrant your attention though. In spite of the fact they were made so long ago both movies hold up for today’s audiences. And if you love Price then this will be a must have for your collection. 

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LAST LOOKS: ENTERTAINING NEO-NOIR

 

  

Most people this week will be seeking out a copy of SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME to watch. The movie was a huge hit at the box office and no doubt will be the one least likely to be found to rent. This presents a great opportunity for a little known movie that deserves more attention than it’s received so far. That movie is LAST LOOKS and it is one incredibly fun whodunit 

Charlie Hunnam stars as Charlie Waldo, an ex-LAPD detective who left the force 3 years ago and who has secluded himself in a trailer on a piece of land he bought in Idyllwild. He’s living a minimalist life, owning only 100 things. All of this is his way of paying penance for something that happened, something that made him leave the force behind as he was reaching the goals he wanted.

One day a horn honks and up pulls Lorena Nascimento (Morena Baccarin), his old flame. Although he left her behind with no warning she is there to offer him a job. She’s working as a private investigator and her newest client is Alastair Pinch (Mel Gibson), an actor accused to murdering his wife. She’s working for the studio of the hit series Pinch stars in. But Charlie declines the offer, preferring the seclusion and self-punishment he’s chosen.

All that changes when Charlie is pulled out of his bed in the middle of the night by three rap-wannabe thugs. They warn him that he needs to stay away from the case. When he asks why they think he’s working it they show him the newspaper headline saying he is working for the studio. Just to make sure he gets the message they knock him unconscious with his own frying pan.

All this does is pique his interests. The next day Charlie jumps on his bicycle, hot tails it to town and takes the first bus to L.A., bicycle included. He arrives and heads to the studio where he meets Wilson Sikorsky (Rupert Friend) the producer of Pinch’s series. He tells Wilson he isn’t working the case but is talked into it, especially when he learns Lorena is missing.

On the set he meets Pinch for the first time. Pinch is a functioning alcoholic, always drinking and yet getting through his performance as if he were sober. His behavior off the set is atrocious though and he is constantly both friendly and withholding of information when it comes to Charlie. He takes him to his mansion to stay in and there Charlie meets his little girl Gaby, the one thing in his life Pinch dotes on.

Charlie makes a point of asking questions of Gaby’s teacher, Jayne White (Lucy Fry). She provides him what she has time for and then asks him to meet her later to discuss the matter more. During this time with her she asks him why he left and the story is revealed to the viewer. 

Charlie follows the clues, looking first through the house and then through information at the coroner’s office he gets from an old friend. Assistance from the police isn’t coming his way as he burned those bridges when he left the force in the incident that drove him from L.A. When he tries anyway an ex-friend and detective Big Jim Cuppy (Clancy Brown) informs him that the body of Lorena was found torched in her husband’s car. What was once a job is now personal and no one will stand in the way of Charlie Waldo.

The movie does a fantastic take on the neo-noir styled detective stories that have come before it, always keeping you guessing at who did what and who is guilty. You’re never quite sure if Pinch in an alcoholic blackout actually killed his wife or if someone else did. A ton of red herrings present themselves as the movie progresses with each being a possible new suspect in the murder of Mrs. Pinch. How they all tie together makes the movie as fascinating as it is entertaining.

Hunnam is a fantastic actor but since the end of SONS OF ANARCHY he’s yet to find the perfect role that will propel him forward. This one should have done it but the movie was lost along the way. He does an exceptional job here. As does Gibson in one of his best performances ever. Perhaps that’s because he’s a bit more relaxed here than in some films he’s done lately. He’s one of those actors who makes you believe he actually is the character and he plays Pinch perfectly.

Like all good mysteries this one presents you clues throughout and the opportunity to figure out who the guilty party is along the way. The twists and turns combined with the quirks of the main character make this story strange, funny, dangerous and alarming all at the same time. In the end it’s a movie that’s more fun than expected and so entertaining that I highly recommend it.

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DEXTER-NEW BLOOD: NATURE VS NURTURE

 

 
  

There are some fictional characters that take on a life of their own. As readers the fans flock to their adventures, waiting for the next book to be released with anticipation. If those books become films or series the same thing happens with fans always wanting more. Sadly all good things come to an end. Or do they?

The character of Dexter Morgan and the series DEXTER based on the books of Jeff Lindsay was hugely successful even if it aired on Showtime and not over the air television. Morgan was a forensics expert who specialized in blood pattern analysis for the Miami Police Department. On the side he was a serial killer who specialized in killing other serial killers, a moral compass given to him by his late father. The show aired from 2006 through 2013 and ended with Dexter sending his infant son off to live with his love interest and sailing into a hurricane with the intent to kill himself. Follow up footage at the end showed he survived.

So here we are in 2022, and time has passed. Ten years in the world of Dexter (a returning Michael C. Hall). He has relocated to the town of Iron Lake, New York in the uppermost part of the state. He’s assumed a new identity as Jim Lindsay, working in a sporting goods store and dating the town chief of police Angela Bishop (Julia Jones). This is a small community where everyone knows one another and says hello while passing on the street.

But there is something beneath the surface of every town. In the case of Iron Lake there are a number of girls, runaways, who have gone missing for the past 25 years beginning with Angela’s best friend Iris. Only kids then it still haunts her and she blames herself for not being there to help her.

Two converging storylines follow. One is the arrival of Dexter’s son Harrison (Jack Alcott), now a teenager filled with questions. His step mother passed away several years before and he’s been in and out of the foster care system. He wants to know why his father abandoned him years before, not knowing that he did so with the hope that he wouldn’t be influenced by Dexter’s desire to kill.

The other story involved a man named Matt Caldwell (Steve M. Robertson), a spoiled arrogant young rich man who feels he can do what he wants when he wants. Matt is the son of local legend Kurt Caldwell (Clancy Brown), the owner of the local truck stop and trucking line who supports numerous things about town financially.

Dexter has been tracking a white deer in the local woods. When he finally gets close to the deer it is shot and killed by Matt using a rifle far too powerful for hunting and nearly killing Dexter. In retaliation Dexter knocks him out, takes him back to his place and releases his old tendencies, noting that this is a worthless human being and killing him.

After he finishes up with him is when Harrison arrives. They talk and he moves in with Dexter. Throughout all of this Dexter sees hallucinations of his dead sister Deb (Jennifer Carpenter) taking over the role of conscience from his late father from the previous series. The two of them go back and forth about just how much to tell Harrison.

In addition to all of this, the search for Matt, learning about his son and traveling through the maze of lies he must make to stay alive there is another serial killer on the loose in Iron Lake, the same one who killed the missing girls. As the search for Matt moves forward the possibility of finding the killer’s hunting ground exist as well. And that killer will do everything possible to protect its hunting ground.

Just like the original series this one keeps you on your toes, guessing the big whodunit question while at the same time wondering how Dexter will protect not just himself but his new budding family. Everything about this series is spectacular from the acting to the way it is shot to the story itself. Hall has immersed himself in the character so well that he doesn’t miss a beat even after years from being the main character.

Gruesome at times, plenty of language (this was on Showtime after all) and with a twisted sense of humor here and there, this was an entertaining series that was fun to watch and I will most likely revisit along with the original. If you haven’t seen the original, read about it and then dive in with this one. It is well done.

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SHAOLIN MANTIS: FAMILY MATTER

 

   

    

Yet another great Chinese martial arts film from 88 Films is released, this time featuring mega-star David Chiang. Chiang was the first major star I became acquainted with after seeing him star alongside Ti Lung in DUEL OF THE IRON FIST. I knew then this was someone to watch.

SHAOLIN MANTIS stars Chiang as Wei Fung, a young scholar and martial arts master recruited by the Emperor to infiltrate the Tien Clan, a family that he suspects of supporting rebel group and those faithful to Ming becoming Emperor. To ensure that he follows through on this task he gives him a year to follow through while he continues to remove the stature of his family and at the end executing them.

Wei works his way into the family when he witnesses the youngest granddaughter of the clan, Tien Chi-Chi (Cecilia Wong), berating her teacher and kicking him out. Chi-Chi is a brat to end all brats, misbehaving and doing as she pleases while at the same time being the apple of her grandfather’s eye. When she asks her grandfather Tien (Lau Kar Wing) to take in Wei to be her new teacher he does so but remains suspicious of him.

Wei is able to contain Chi-Chi better than any of her previous teachers and eventually the two fall in love. Sadly Tien discovers who Wei is and plans to have him executed. Chi-Chi pleads for his life pledging her love for Wei. Tien considers what to do and tells them both that if they marry and Wei never leaves the family compound ever he will spare his life.

Remembering the promise the Emperor made concerning his family Wei decides that he must return to prevent them from being killed. Tien follows through with his threat and the only way the Wei and Chi-Chi can leave is by passing through the various uncles and their specialized techniques to finally leave. What happens following it tragedy on a grand scale 

Perhaps more than any of the other releases 88 Films has offered this one contains the mix of humor and drama we’ve seen in some but not to this degree. The sequences between Chiang and Wong have a simplicity and playfulness that takes skill to make work just right. They do so with ease. As well as these comedic touches the tragedy that follows is equally strong, completely changing the tone of the film before the end pops up.

Directed by Lar Kar Leung, who most famously made THE 36^TH CHAMBER OF SHAOLIN, this film features some stunning fight sequences that play into the storyline. Each battle takes on its own persona and makes for fascinating viewing. Couple that with Chiang’s dynamic acting and martial arts skills on display and you have a film worth seeking out. Thank goodness 88 Films has made it easy for fans to find.

Not only is the film presented in pristine restored HD presentation for the first time they’ve included several great extras as well. Those include a limited edition slipcase with brand new artwork by R.P. “Kung Fu Bob” O’Brien, a double-sided A3 foldout poster, an audio commentary track with Asian cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema, an audio commentary track with Asian cinema expert Frank Dieng, “Complicated Families” David West on SHAOLIN MANTIS, an interview with actor John Cheung by Frédéric Ambroisine, the US trailer and the Hong Kong trailer.

Yet another in the series of martial arts masterpieces brought out as part of 88 Films Asian Collection that deserves to find a spot on the shelf of all martial arts and action fans.

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NEW YEAR’S EVIL: CALL ME…EEEEVIL!

 

 

Horror films based around holidays were nothing new but they really kicked off in the 70s. BLACK CHRISTMAS and SILENT NIGHT BLOODY NIGHT were two films that did decent at the box office. Who would have thought that the release of HALLOWEEN in 1978 a whole new slew of films would solidify holiday killers in the mainstream? FRIDAY THE 13^TH in 1980 just cemented the genre and Hollywood was off and running with a ton of low budget holiday based horror. The same year that came out a film was released that has found a cult following of sort. That movie was NEW YEAR’S EVIL.

Video DJ Diane “Blaze” Sullivan (Roz Kelly) is working her way towards bigger things. She’s covering this year’s New Year’s celebration live from a Hollywood hotel where fans are dancing the night away to live bands and getting countdowns from across the country with each time zone’s own celebration. Diane’s concentration is so intense that she pays little attention to her son Derek (Grant Cramer) who’s just gotten a big part in a TV series telling him they’ll talk later. She also has a problem with her husband who is nowhere to be found.

The show goes live and fans are calling in. One in particular talks straight to Diane and tell her his name is Evil. He then let’s her know that with each midnight celebration across the country, he will kill a naughty girl there in LA, culminating with her murder at midnight pacific time. Upset she contacts the police who blow off her concerns. Until the first body shows up.

As the body count rises the police search for the killer. We the viewer watch and know the face of the killer early on. He goes though his choices of victims carefully and yet at one point begins to make mistakes that could land him in trouble with not just the police but a biker gang as well. But the twist in the story comes when he makes his way to the hotel where Diane is.

It’s easy to see why this movie has developed such a faithful group of fans. It’s not pretentious enough to consider itself a class act, aiming more towards a campy fun type film that some movies in the genre failed to follow. Sure there is an amount of seriousness needed when doing a film about a serial killer but ones like this have to display a certain amount of charm and fun along the way as well. This one accomplishes that.

The film is no display of enormous thespian talent and yet the cast handles their roles perfectly, in particular Kip Niven as Evil who brings a combination of charm and dread to the character. Roz Kelly is slammed in most reviews of this film. This is about the fourth time I’ve seen the film since different companies have released it in the past. This is the first time I noticed that her performance doesn’t deserve the criticism that she’s received. Certainly some moment are over the top but those fall in line with the action taking place. There are others where she shows her skills though and that needs to be recognized.

Also of note is Cramer in his first film role here, long before he became a regular on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. What I found interesting about his playing this role but never mentioned or discussed is that in real life he was the son of a famous movie star, Terry Moore who had starred in MIGHTY JOE YOUNG among others.

The film was co-written and directed by Emmett Alston who only directed eight films in his career. He was a solid enough craftsman when it comes to his film and it makes you wonder what made him decided to stop.

Released by Shout Factory some years ago the new version is coming out from Kino Lorber. Their version starts out with a brand new 2k master of the film making it better looking than ever. Extras include an audio commentary track featuring director Emmett Alston moderated by Code Red’s Bill Olsen, “The Making of New Year’s Evil” featuring interviews with the cast and crew, the theatrical trailer, newly commissioned art by Vince Evans and reversible original artwork for the sleeve. They’ve done a great job of it and if you’re a fan you’ll want to pick this one up.

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MONSTER FROM GREEN HELL: WASPS IN A B MOVIE

 

 

I love old horror movies. Everything from the classic Universal creatures to the Hammer films of the 60s. But there is a special place in the heart of horror fans for the low budget drive-in fillers of the 50s and 60s that offered the schlockiest monsters, the giant bugs, the walking trees and more. Watching them as children they were frightening, watching them as adults they are ridiculously funny. But the fact of the matter is that some of them were actually entertaining and pretty well made for having no budget. Case in point MONSTER FROM GREEN HELL.

Scientists Dr. Quent Brady (Jim Davis) and Dan Morgan (Robert Griffin) are working on a space program that includes sending various animals and insects into space to see what effect it will have on them. One of their rockets goes astray and crashes in Africa, a rocket that was carrying wasps.

In Africa, Dr. Lorentz (Vladimir Sokoloff) and his daughter Lorna (Barbara Turner) have had an outbreak of deaths in their area. The autopsies reveal that these natives have had an enormous amount of venom injected into them. All of the deaths seem to have taken place in an area the natives call Green Hell.

When word reaches Brady and Morgan about these attacks and reports of giant bugs, they realize that these were the same wasps they sent into space and lost. Having been exposed to radiation they have grown to enormous size and are now responsible for the deaths in Africa. Worse yet, if they don’t stop these wasps and kill the queen they could breed and overrun the entire world.

Brady and Morgan head for Africa and intend to meet up with Dr. Lorentz. The trek is 400 miles through the jungle to get there and they experience every problem possible. When they arrive they find the doctors daughter there but he hasn’t returned from an expedition into Green Hell. Mounting their own group to follow they head out to discover just what has taken place to Dr. Lorentz.

Of course we’ve seen what happened. They were attacked by giant wasps!

This is yet another movie that used radiation turning innocent animals and bugs into giant killing creatures. We had spiders and Gila monsters and ants and even a praying mantis. So why not wasps? What sets a movie apart from the rest is the special effects and for a movie made on a miniscule budget these are amazing. A combination of stop motion animation and fiberglass creations work together to make these giant wasps at least somewhat believable.

In the tradition of all movies in this genre a romance develops between Davis and Turner’s characters. The dialogue may not be the best but it does help explain things even if in the most simple style possible. The plot is just right for the running time of this film but it does at times feel like it takes a while for it to move forward with far too many trudging through the jungle scenes.

In the end the movie was one of the better entries into the genre of giant bugs and is quite entertaining. I was pleasantly surprised after seeing the ad artwork. It turned out to exceed my expectations which to be honest weren’t that high. Still this is one I’m glad to add to my collection and will watch again.

The Film Detective is showing tons of potential with the release of several films in the classic drive-in category. This one shines among them. To begin with the film is being released with a 4K transfer, including both widescreen (1.85:1) and full frame (1.33:1) versions of the film and the rare, colorized version of film’s climax. In addition to that the extras featured include “Missouri Born: The Films of Jim Davis” an all-new career retrospective with author/film historian, C. Courtney Joyner, “The Men Behind the Monsters” an essay by author Don Stradley featured in a full color booklet and a commentary track with artist/author, Stephen R. Bissette.

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RAGING FIRE: GOOD COP, BAD COP

 

Donnie Yen deserves credit for becoming the next mega-star in the world of martial arts movies. His style on screen shows he can not only deliver when it comes to fight sequences but he is a talented actor as well. From historical dramas to comedies to police thrillers he always gives it his all and it shows on screen. His film RAGING FIRE shows this.

The film opens as police detective Cheung Sung-bong (Yen) is about to arrest his longtime foe. As he moves in to make the arrest a heavily armed gang breaks in shooting everyone in sight, from the criminal he was going to arrest to members of his team. Surviving the attack Bong begins to look into who this gang is and who their leader might be. He’s stunned to learn that the leader is Yau Kong-ngo (Nicholas Tse), his former partner just released from prison.

The past story of what took place between these two police officers and how Ngo was disgraced is broken down as the movie unfolds. Having taken things to the extreme as an office Ngo was disgraced and sent to prison on the testimony of Bong. Now Ngo alongside the officers who were disgraced as well are seeking revenge, turning their skills and knowledge into becoming criminals. Their revenge seeks what they feel is justice against everyone from the top police staff to the banker who set them up to Bong himself.

There is no way mere words can describe how well made this movie is. The story is solid and the acting is superb. While Yen shows that he can continue to make fantastic movies giving his all for both the fight sequences and acting, it is actually Tse who steals the show here. Where most bad guys are fairly cardboard cutouts of characters seen in the past, he brings a life to Ngo that makes him dangerous and sympathetic at the same time. He exudes charisma in the role while Yen’s character is more bland. But that’s what you would expect from these characters.

The film is the last to be directed by Benny Chan who died during post production of the film. This was the 25^th film by the Hong Kong director whose first feature film was made in 1990. He was noted for his high octane fighting sequences and fast paced films that were faithful to the tradition of Hong Kong action films. It’s sad to think after watching this that he’s gone.

While watching this film I never found myself wanting to reach for the remote, to hit the fast forward button to get through some boring sequence or car chase that we’ve seen over and over again. Everything here felt fresh and new, even if it wasn’t. I felt myself pulled into the story as it was revealed and that’s something amazing for a film to do.

So many people still can’t bring themselves to watch movies made in other countries and that’s sad because they limit themselves and miss out on some fantastic films. This is one of those. Well Go has done an amazing job of bringing Asian cinema to the home market and that should be taken advantage of. If you don’t believe me pick up this movie and see what I am talking about. For action fans this is a must have for your collection.

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SANTO – EL ENMASCARADO DE PLATE/SANTO BOX SET: LUCHADOR TO THE RESCUE!

 

 

When it comes to pop culture every country has their heroes and villains. The British gave us James Bond. The U.S. had Davy Crockett. The French provided Barbarella. But in Mexico the one hero who stood above the rest was El Santo, the famed luchador or masked wrestler.

Referred to as one of the greatest legends in Mexican sport, El Santo was the ring name for famed luchador Rudolfo Huerta.  First wrestling in the 1930s and continues to do so for the next 50 years. Huerta used his popularity to move from the wrestling ring into films in 1952 along with a comic book series at the same time. The films were immensely successful and resulted in the character appearing or co-starring in 52 films.

For the most part these films haven’t been as hugely successful here in the U.S. as they were in other countries. But along with the long neglected horror films that found their core audience when they arrived in TV the Santo films followed. A growing legion of fans became enamored of the character and the films. But no one had ever done them justice when it came to releasing them on tape or later disc. Until now.

VCI has done a remarkable job of gathering together some of the best of the Santo films. If you’re a fan there is a chance you won’t get your favorite here but then again who knows. For those who have never seen a Santo film be prepared to have a laugh, see some excitement and get a glimpse at the wrestling star of the past. This set contains 8 of those 52 films out there and is a great way to be exposed to El Santo.

The eight films included in this box set are SANTO IN THE WAX MUSEUM (1963), SANTO IN THE TREASURE OF DRACULA - (1969), SANTO VS THE RIDERS OF TERROR (1970), SANTO in THE VENGEANCE OF THE MUMMY (1971), SANTO VS FRANKENSTEIN'S DAUGHTER (1972), SANTO & BLUE DEMON VS DRACULA AND THE WOLFMAN (1973), SANTO & BLUE DEMON VS DR. FRANKENSTEIN (1974), SANTO and MANTEQUILLA NAPOLES in THE REVENGE OF LA LLORONA (THE CRYING WOMAN) (1074). As you can see El Santo had a thing for fighting many of the mainstream monster that have found their way to film.

The first film, SANTO IN THE WAX MUSEUM, was actually the eighth film made featuring the character. But it gives a great start to those left unexposed to the hero. The early films featured the character as a hero in the ring who was also an investigator outside. No explanation was given for him wearing the mask even when not wrestling but who cared? In this film he’s looking into kidnappings taking place. It all leads to an evil doctor (aren’t they all?) who is using these people for his experiments. Only Santo and his wrestling skills can stop him.

As the series progressed Santo not only was a skilled wrestler and investigator, he was a scientists and inventor as well. This is apparent in the second film here SANTI IN THE TREASURE OF DRACULA where he invents a time machine. An interesting note about this film is that there are two version, both included here. One was made for U.S. audiences and the other for European audiences. The difference was that nudity was added for the foreign market.

Each film features the efforts of Santo to bring justice to whatever situation presents itself. And in each one he uses his wrestling skills in one way or another. Right always defeats wrong, the day is saved and Santo moves on to the next case.

These films are not to be taken seriously. While watching I was reminded of that other pop icon of the sixties, Batman. This was a time of brilliant color schemes and over the top acting accompanied by witty barbs traded back and forth as opposed to the brooding dark knight we now have. Santo reminded me of those days with a character that was over the top and fun as opposed to a darker character. These films are light and entertaining without a care in the world what anyone thought of them. I think it is because of that attitude that the film were so popular and remain so to this day.

VCI has done an amazing job with this release. All eight films have been restored in 4K from the original 35mm negatives and presented in widescreen on Blu-ray and DVD. Each film is also presented with new, or restored English soundtracks. Extras include the featurette “The History of the Cardona Family and Mexican Cinema”, special video Intros to each movie by film historian Dr. David Wilt, a liner notes collectible booklet written by Dr. David Wilt, a video Interview with René Cardona III, and an extensive photo/poster gallery. Not only has VCI brought the films back to life, they’ve done themselves proud by the product they have to offer here. The box set is limited to 2,000 so if you want one order it now!

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ESCAPE FROM MOGADISHU: WE ARE NOT ALONE

 

 

Far too often most people in the U.S. think that everything revolves around this country. It’s not always the case. There are people, issues, cultures, films and more that take place around the world on a daily basis. Unless there is some crisis in the world most here in the U.S. never think about that. I think it is because of this attitude that many do not expose themselves to what the rest of the world has to offer and that’s sad.

It’s sad because there is so much out there to see and be exposed to. And the easiest way to do so is through film. Movies from other countries are now readily available to U.S. audiences since the invention of the first VCT and more so now on disc. Well Go is a company that has been bringing quality product to the DVD/Blu-ray market for some time now. And not just martial arts movies, but solid dramatic films as well telling compelling stories. Like ESCAPE FROM MOGADISHU.

In 1991 South Korea is attempting to be recognized and welcomed into the United Nations. But they need the votes of several countries to gain that recognition. One of those countries is Somalia. Han Sin-seong is the chief ambassador to Somalia in the capital Mogadishu. Along with intelligence officer Dae-jin he is supposed to meet with the president of Somalia with gifts on hand that were requested. But on the way they are carjacked and the package is stolen.

Late for this meeting they find that their counterparts from North Korea led by Rim Yong-su are already meeting with the president. Han feels that he is responsible for this treachery and the attack on his vehicle. The truth is it was done by his intelligence officer, Tae Joon-ki. None of this will matter soon.

The corruption that runs rampant in Somalia leads both parties to contemplate more and more bribes in an effort to gain what they want. All of it is for naught as the people of Somalia revolt against the president and his regime. A revolution begins and there is blood in the streets as the people take over the city of Mogadishu, scouring the streets for the deposed president. And anyone in the streets is fair game.

Trapped in their embassy both the North and South Korean delegates find themselves in the midst of war. There is little protection for either embassy as the loyalties of those Somali guards are only as strong as your ability to pay them. Those revolting have no care about respecting embassies. And time is short before the airport will shut down and no one will be able to escape.

The first embassy to fall is the North Koreans who were lucky to escape before the building was breached. They appeal to the South Koreans for aid and it is Han who allows them in. Both Han and Rim know that the only way for them to escape is to work together but their intelligence officers find it hard to trust one another. Deals with other countries are made, rules are broken and the members of both countries unite to save one another. Who will and will not make it out and escape from Mogadishu though 

The film is a wonderful movie to watch capturing the reality of what was going on in Somalia and with both North and South Korea at the time. This isn’t fiction, this is a real life drama that unfolds from viewers to watch. The people were real, their story is real and the dangers that they face were real as well. While watching you can’t help but feel emotions for the danger that they were in and the losses that they faced.

The film also shows that those beliefs that other countries are not as adept at making films as the U.S. is on display as well. These are not the confined to a set using poor film stock movies of the past. The film is shot incredibly well, the sets and lighting top of the line and the acting carries well even in translation. All make this a fantastic movie to watch.

If you can tell a story in a compelling way, be it fact or fiction, and you can do using the technology and equipment that are now available worldwide then you have made a movie worth watching. It’s time viewers in the U.S. set aside pre-conceived notions about foreign films, stop thinking that everything must be dubbed (though it does help with this transition) and realize that subtitles are not a bad thing. Once you do that there is a whole world of film out there to explore and enjoy. And ESCAPE FROM MOGADISHU is a good place to begin.

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THE LEGENDARY WEAPONS OF CHINA: DISPLAY OF WEAPONRY

 

 

Yet another in the now growing line of martial arts films being given spectacular treatment by 88 Films. This time a film that combines martial arts sequences, weapon skills and a combination of drama and humor that works in the best way possible.

Taking place during the Boxer Rebellion around 1899, a secret sect the Yi Ho Society, has learned of a technique using mysticism and martial arts combined that leaves them impervious to blades. When they try to use the same techniques against bullets they fail miserably. Seeing they are willing to sacrifice their men to these weapons Lei Kung (Liu Chia-Liang) disbands his men and leaves the sect. The Chief of the Yi Ho Society, insulted by his claims, orders his execution and puts a bounty on his head.

To assassins arrive in the same small town seeking out Lei. Tien Hau (Hsiao-Hou) is asking questions and finding few answers. Fang Shau-Ching (Kara Wai), the niece of the Chief and following clues to the same location. As they ask around and look to see any clues as to Lei’s secret identity they both come to the same conclusion as to who he is. Not knowing one another, both arrive to take him out but end up fighting with one another instead. In the end their guess as to who Kung is is wrong and they’ve found clan member Lei Ying (Lau Kar-Wing) instead.

Tien and Fang join forces to find Kung. The more the pair learn, the more they come to realize that they have been lied to. When they find out the members of the clan were willingly sacrificed for no reason they decide to join forces with Lei and put an end to the methods of their own clan, resulting in a final showdown between Lei Kung and Lei Ying who turns out to be his brother, the man who sent the assassins to kill him and weaken him to he can deal the death blow and raise his stature in the clan.

This description is the most basic one can give but there is so much more going on in this film. The persona Lei takes to hide his skills is a comedic one as is how he handles the much less skilled assassins sent to take him out. Voodoo dolls are used in portions of the film allowing non-skilled combatants to take part in fights as the dolls’ handler manipulates them about.

One of the most amazing aspects of the film is the use of the titled weapons in the film. While various items had been used in the past no film had actually focused on all of them and brought them to the forefront of any film. This one makes up for that. The film opens with an acrobatic display of each being used. This bookends with the final showdown in which Lei Kung arrives with them all and one by one the duo battle it out with each.

Once more 88 Films has brought this out with an amazing HD print that captures all the action and color magnificently. The extras on hand include an audio commentary track with Asian cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema, and audio commentary track with Asian cinema experts Frank Dieng and actor/martial artists Michael Worth, an audio commentary track with Asian cinema expert Frank Dieng alone, “Eighteen Weapons” David West on THE LEGENDARY WEAPONS OF CHINA, “Gordon at Shaw” and interview with actor Gordon Lui by Frédéric Ambroisine, “Titus At Shaw” an interview with producer Titus Ho by Frédéric Ambroisine, the original trailer and a reversible sleeve with brand-new artwork from R.P. “Kung Fu Bob” O’Brien & Original Hong Kong poster artwork.

I keep saying this but it is simply the facts. If you are a fan of martial arts movies or action films in general then you need to add this film along with the other 88 Films offerings to your collection.

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CSI-VEGAS SEASON ONE: A WELL THOUGHT OUT RETURN

 

Some might not remember when CSI first broke onto the scene. At the time sitcoms were the rage on TV. Then this new breed of investigative police procedural broke out and became an enormous hit spawning two spin offs. Those also opened the doors for shows like NCIS that became immensely popular. So when word came out that the series was coming back for a reboot fans were overjoyed. But could they capture lightening in a bottle twice. Thankfully yes.

If you never saw the original it revolved around the Crime Scene Investigative unit in Las Vegas, NV. Cast members came and went and when we last saw Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox) and Gil Grissom (William Peterson) they had retired from CSI, married and were off on their own research around the globe. All of that changes with the opening episode of this new series.

Jim Brass (Paul Guilfoyle) was the police officer who worked hand in hand with the original CSI team. Now going blind and living alone, he is attacked and nearly killed before he takes out his killer. This could easily be passed off as an act of revenge from one of the many criminals put away by Brass over the years. But here is something more going on here. And rather than sit back and watch it happens, Brass contacts Sidle to return and help find out who it was that wanted him dead.

From there things continue to spiral downward. Sidle comes back and along with her she brings Gil. But as they arrive to help an old colleague of theirs is accused of doctoring evidence. David Hodges (Wallace Langham) is being charged with committing the crime of evidence tampering and all the physical evidence seems to prove the charges are based in fact.

The new head of the CSI unit is Maxine Roby (Paula Newsome) and she welcomes the assistance of Sara and Gil. Problems pop up with the charges against Hodges though with the thought being that since they worked with him their objectivity might not be the clearest. Helping the crime lab while working out their theories about Hodges on the side, they pursue every angle possible in the hopes of helping him become vindicated.

As the season progresses we discover the real culprit of course. A disgruntled attorney who saw most of his cases destroyed by the factual evidence that was gathered by the CSI unit. Anson Wix (Jamie McShane) also happens to be running for office. Using their own methods against them and placing them in a position where if they investigate him it will look like a political ploy, the team must work diligently and by the book if they are to save Hodges and put Wix behind bars.

A new crime lab and new characters combined with the familiar faces of the past works to great effect here. Originally intended to be a one off the show was so popular that CBS has renewed it for a second season. Sadly the two main old stars will not be returning but another will.

The feel of the old series is on hand here and all that fans loved about it remains intact. Using the various forms of forensics to find the clues needed to put the culprit behind bars is front and center once more. This makes it as much a howdunit as it is a whodunit. That technology keeps the viewer guessing as to what it will turn up and who it will help.

It was fantastic seeing Fox and Peterson together again as these characters. When series end or characters leave there is a feeling of sadness that follows with them. Seeing them return and doing what they do best in a fresh environment brings a feeling of contentment and happiness to fans.

The show was incredibly enjoyable and the choice to make it a combination of day to day crimes surrounded by an ongoing story that runs through all ten episodes was a stroke of genius. I don’t know if I’d follow the same path for season two but here it works perfectly.

Just released on disc you can own this series and put it right next to the old ones on your shelf. That’s where mine is sitting. In spite of streaming services I like having a physical copy on hand. You might get rid of that service, the internet might be down for hours or you might be on vacation with a disc player or disc capable laptop on hand. When that happens it will be a joy to pop this in and watch it one more time.

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THE FLAG OF IRON: BETRAYAL

 

 

Once again 88 Films is releasing yet another classic Shaw Brothers production and doing it right. This time the film is THE FLAG OF IRON. Filled with plenty of story as well as action this one was quite enjoyable.

Two rival clans are found in the same town. The Iron Flag clan is the better of the two, so named because their weapons are spears with flags on them. The other is the Eagle Hill clan. This one is disreputable, owning a brothel where they sometimes kidnap women to work there. Two members of the Eagle Clan, Luo (Phillip Kwok) and Yuan (Chiang Sheng) discover this and beat up the man in charge freeing the girl they find kidnapped.

As the rivalries between the two clans grow the Eagle Clan decides to settle things and invite the Iron Flag clan to a dinner to broker peace. Or so they claim. Instead they have brought the clan together in the hopes of destroying them all. The leader of the Iron Flag clan is killed by a paid assassin known only as the Spearman (Tien-Hsiang Lung). Afterwards Cao (Feng Lu) takes his place. When police investigate the disturbance, follower Luo takes the fall and agrees to leave the town until things calm down. Cao promises to send him funds to keep him going.

Luo moves far away and does his best to get along. He takes a job in a restaurant waiting and cleaning tables. This helps him survive since no fund ever seem to make them his way. A year passes and his friend Yuan comes to visit. He informs Luo that Cao has changed since his taking over. He now does the despicable things that the Iron Flag clan was known to stop, enriching himself in the process.

Assassins show up to kill Luo but he survives with the help of Yuan and the Spearman. It is then that they learn that the Spearman was tricked into killing their master and that Cao was behind it all. Vowing revenge for the misdeeds of Cao, the three head back to seek justice.

Yet another great film directed by Chang Cheh this one delivers on all fronts from story to the action sequences involved. Not only does the film involve skilled martial arts this time various exotic weapons work their way into the mix as well. Extremely well choreographed fight scenes could have resulted in severe injury or even death had the not been performed with caution and care by some amazing actors here.

Fans of the genre will notice that most of the stars from the various Venom films make an appearance here. No, not the Marvel character Venom but movies like THE FIVE DEADLY VENOMS and RETURN OF THE FIVE DEADLY VENOMS. But this film really doesn’t connect to those films.

I know I keep praising the films being released by 88 Films but what can I say? They deserve the praise! They’re releasing this in yet another HD format making it look spectacular. The extras this time are a little limited but well worth it. They include a limited edition slipcase with brand new artwork by R.P. “Kung Fu Bob” O’Brien, a double-sided A3 foldout poster, extensive booklet notes “Red and Black Attack Unfurling the Fury of Cheh Chang’s Gloriously Inventive Martial Arts Masterwork FLAG OF IRON by Andrew Graves and a reversible sleeve with new artwork by O’Brien and the original Hong Kong poster artwork.

Yet another must have for marital arts and action fans.

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BEDTIME STORY: NOW YOU CON SEE THIS

 

 

If you asked someone if they had seen the film DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS the movie or the musical they most likely would say of course. Some might tell you that they saw the film THE HUSTLE with Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson but that didn’t do near the business. But how many would be surprised to learn that both of those were remakes of a movie that came out in 1964? Even more stunning would be to learn that one of the main actors in the film was Marlon Brando.

This is all true. The film in question is BEDTIME STORY. Not only did it star Brando, it also featured David Niven and Shirley Jones. So how is it this film is overlooked and no one talks about it any longer?

David Niven stars as Lawrence Jameson, a con man living in Beaumont-sur-Mer in the French Riviera. Jameson is well connected with the police and hotel owners in this resort area patronized by numerous single women either divorced or widowed. His contact at the hotel directs him to those women that seem ready to be bilked and Jameson takes over, telling them he is a disposed prince of a war torn country in need of funds to combat those who took over.

In nearby Germany Corporal Freddy Benson (Brando) is plying the same trade of sorts but for far less stakes. He finds a single woman and a picture of the house she lives in, telling her that the picture was given to him by his ailing grandmother and he promised her he’d make a point of seeing it while in Europe. All of this is to seduce the young woman. Unfortunately Freddy is interrupted in his latest conquest by the girl’s father, the town Burgomaster. Freddy convinces his colonel to give him an early discharge and he sets out to see more of Europe.

The two con men meet one another while sharing a train compartment on the way to Beaumont-sur-Mer. Freddy brags to Jameson about his exploits and tries to give him tips about how to pull off a con. Jameson plays dumb but arranges for Freddy to be arrested once they arrive. Thinking he is done with him he heads home. But Freddy has other plans. He intends to invade Jameson’s territory.

Eventually the two decided it would be better to be partners than rivals. Jameson has Freddy pose as Ruprecht, his mentally challenged brother. Together they bilk several wealthy women of a portion of their wealth. Jameson keeps this on hand claiming he is training Freddy to be bigger than he was.

Eventually the two realize there can be only one con man in town. To determine who stays and goes they decide who stays and who goes they come up with a challenge. The first person to steal $25,000 from a selected mark wins and is allowed to remain.

They pick Janet Walker (Shirley Jones), a naïve American heiress and set out to be the one to win. Freddy pretends to be a war hero suffering from psychologically induced paralysis. Jameson counters posing as a world renowned psychotherapist who happens to be in town on vacation. As each attempts to woo Janet, they sabotage one another’s plans in a hilarious competition unfolds.

I can recall seeing this movie years ago on TV and thinking it was funny. Watching it again I was happy to learn that it was funnier than I remembered. In addition to that certain scenes brought back memories of DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS which also handled to same story quite well. The film holds up after all these years.

Niven is his usual dapper self here playing the more sophisticated of the two. He was always good at these kind of parts and this displays his talents well. Brando is the surprise. He’s always been praised for his dramatic achievements but he was always good in comedies as well and shines here as Freddy. Jones isn’t given as much to play with here but her portrayal of the unknowing Janet fits perfectly between the two con men. 

Kino Lorber is releasing this on Blu-ray and it’s a wonderful addition to anyone’s collection who enjoys a good laugh. I find most comedies lose something the second time around but that isn’t the case with this one. I know I’ll be watching it again. My suggestion if you’ve never seen it is to make sure you do. And maybe, just maybe, make a triple feature night of it with the other two movies.

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BELFAST: FAMILY MATTERS

 

 

In an attempt to sum up what a movie is about many critics have focused on the linear story that takes place in Kenneth Branagh’s new film BELFAST. The problem is that while there is a story that has a beginning, middle and end, it is more than that. There is something more important here than that linear tale. It is about family and life. The film is one of the many nominated for Best Picture for this year’s Oscars. I don’t know if it should win not having seen all the others but it does deserve to be there.

The movie is a semi-autobiographical film about Branagh’s life growing up in Belfast in the late sixties just as what is known as the Troubles began there. Different factions of the country were fighting in the streets over staying a part of England or separating to be a part of Ireland. Most summed it up as a battle between Protestants and Catholics but the core problem was Ireland.

The film opens in the neighborhood Branagh grew up in. Nine year old Buddy (Jude Hill) loves his home and all that surrounds him. This is the old style of neighborhood where people knew their neighbors, watched out for one another and where kids played in the streets without fear of anyone nearby. Buddy is being called in to tea by his mother here called Ma (Catriona Balfe). As he nears home he’s confronted with a mob tossing Molotov cocktails and brandishing clubs. They are calling for the Catholics to leave the neighborhood and threatening everyone.

The thing is not everyone in the neighborhood agrees. For them these are simply their neighbors. The next day barricades are set up at the end of the street to prevent these ruffians from getting easy access to their street. British soldiers help reinforce the barricade and armored vehicles patrol the streets.

Buddy’s father Pa (Jamie Dornan) is not there at the moment but on his way back to visit. Jobs are scarce and he’s found work in England, coming home on weekends to be with his family. Living in the house is Buddy’s older brother Will (Lewis McAskie), just a few years older. His cousin Moira (Lara McDonnell) lives nearby as do his grandparents Pop (Ciarin Hinds) and Granny (Judi Dench). More family members live in the area as well and this is where not just the sense of community but family runs throughout the film.

While home Pa is confronted by local ruffian and criminal Billy Clanton (Colin Morgan). He demands that Pa join the cause which Pa has no interest in becoming a part of. Buddy witnesses this confrontation from the shadows. And while Buddy doesn’t know it, his family is in financial straits as well with back taxes leaving them in debt.

There is more to the story including a love interest for young Buddy and his love of movies that he uses as an escape. There is also his father trying to convince the family that the safest thing for them to do is leave Belfast. The problem is this is their home and has been for generations and they are reluctant to do so in spite of the danger that is taking place all around them.

So what makes the movie good? Nearly everything. There is an ease and rhythm with the dialogue and movements of the film from one scene to the next. It feels less like a movie and more like a slice of life for those who live in it. This is due to a combination of things from the script to the directing to the performances of each and every person on screen. This includes young Hill in his first film. You’d never guess it.

While there are bits and pieces in color the majority of the film is in black and white. Why? Perhaps because the drab setting in the film are seen that way through the eyes of young Buddy, the center of the film. Or maybe because color would add little to the story here. Suffice to say it works.

Since we here in the U.S. were not a part of conflict we have little clue as to what happened or how it affected people there. This film doesn’t dig into the politics of the conflict but shows us how bad it was in how it took its toll on the people there. This make for a much more compelling film. And one that you might want to take a look. This one is worth watching.

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