In the shadowy corridors of horror cinema, there are those films that, despite the cold shoulder from critics, have wormed their way into the hearts of fans, becoming cult classics or beloved guilty pleasures. Today, we’re diving into a crypt of such misunderstood treasures, highlighting “10 Great Horror Movies That Are Way Better Than Their Low Rotten Tomatoes Scores”.
These films, while not always basking in critical acclaim, have undeniably etched themselves into the genre’s vast landscape, offering unique scares, laughs, and everything in between. So, let’s peel back the curtain on these underappreciated gems, proving that sometimes, the most memorable horrors are those that dare to diverge from the norm.
As Above, So Below (2014) | Universal 10. As Above, So Below (2014) – Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 26%
Venturing into the catacombs beneath Paris, As Above, So Below follows Scarlett (Perdita Weeks), a driven archaeologist, as she seeks the fabled Philosopher’s Stone.
These films, while not always basking in critical acclaim, have undeniably etched themselves into the genre’s vast landscape, offering unique scares, laughs, and everything in between. So, let’s peel back the curtain on these underappreciated gems, proving that sometimes, the most memorable horrors are those that dare to diverge from the norm.
As Above, So Below (2014) | Universal 10. As Above, So Below (2014) – Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 26%
Venturing into the catacombs beneath Paris, As Above, So Below follows Scarlett (Perdita Weeks), a driven archaeologist, as she seeks the fabled Philosopher’s Stone.
- 2/22/2024
- by Kimberley Elizabeth
The Halloweenies take a quick post-holiday vacay to Raven’s Fair to discuss James Wan‘s 2007 supernatural horror film, Dead Silence. Together, they discuss Wan’s bleached-out style, the muddled mythology, Donnie Wahlberg‘s scene-stealing performance, and, naturally, 2010’s Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole. Note: This episode was recorded in September 2021.
Stream the episode below or subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, RadioPublic, Acast, Google Podcasts, and RSS. New to the Halloweenies? Catch up with the gang by revisiting their essential episodes on past franchises such as Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th, Scream, The Evil Dead, and this past year’s Chucky!
Next up? Get ready to board the Nostromo with the Alien franchise.
You can also become a member of their Patreon, The Rewind, for hilariously irreverent commentaries, one-off deep dives on your favorite rentals, and even spinoffs like their recent run Fortune & Glory: An Indiana Jones Podcast.
Stream the episode below or subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, RadioPublic, Acast, Google Podcasts, and RSS. New to the Halloweenies? Catch up with the gang by revisiting their essential episodes on past franchises such as Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th, Scream, The Evil Dead, and this past year’s Chucky!
Next up? Get ready to board the Nostromo with the Alien franchise.
You can also become a member of their Patreon, The Rewind, for hilariously irreverent commentaries, one-off deep dives on your favorite rentals, and even spinoffs like their recent run Fortune & Glory: An Indiana Jones Podcast.
- 1/16/2024
- by Michael Roffman
- bloody-disgusting.com
The common thread that unites all James Wan movies is sincerity. The director of modern horror classics like "Saw," "Insidious," and "The Conjuring," blockbuster behemoths like "Furious 7" and "Aquaman," and beloved cult items like "Dead Silence" and "Malignant" doesn't allow a single shred of snark or cynicism into his movies. Even his horror movies wear their hearts on their sleeves, which means this is doubly true for his bigger movies aimed at a massive worldwide audience. The first "Aquaman" made over a billion bucks by staying true to its goofball nature. In troubled times, it's clear audiences are buying Wan's particular brand of earnestness.
Wan's latest film, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom," opens in theaters this week, and I had the opportunity to sit down with the filmmaker over Zoom to chat all about it. We talked about drumming octopuses and how the world of "Aquaman" carries the...
Wan's latest film, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom," opens in theaters this week, and I had the opportunity to sit down with the filmmaker over Zoom to chat all about it. We talked about drumming octopuses and how the world of "Aquaman" carries the...
- 12/18/2023
- by Jacob Hall
- Slash Film
James Wan took us into The Further when he directed the first two Insidious films a decade ago, now he’s set to take us… nowhere. Deadline reports that Wan’s production company Atomic Monster is behind an NBC series called Nowhere, which comes from Siberia and Emerald City creator Matthew Arnold. Arnold serves as creator, executive producer, and showrunner on the show, which is currently in development.
In addition to Atomic Monster, Vertigo Entertainment, Room 101, and Antihero Entertainment also have a hand in the development of Nowhere. Wan will be executive producing with Rob Hackett and Michael Clear for Atomic Monster, while Natalie Viscuso and Roy Lee executive produce for Vertigo, Steve Schneider executive produces for Room 101, and Aengus McLoone does the same for Antihero Entertainment. Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, is the studio.
Arnold originally envisioned Nowhere as a novella, then when he wrote...
In addition to Atomic Monster, Vertigo Entertainment, Room 101, and Antihero Entertainment also have a hand in the development of Nowhere. Wan will be executive producing with Rob Hackett and Michael Clear for Atomic Monster, while Natalie Viscuso and Roy Lee executive produce for Vertigo, Steve Schneider executive produces for Room 101, and Aengus McLoone does the same for Antihero Entertainment. Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, is the studio.
Arnold originally envisioned Nowhere as a novella, then when he wrote...
- 12/15/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
This episode of Revisited was Written by Cody Hamman, Narrated by Travis Hopson, Edited by Juan Jimenez, Produced by Adam Walton and Chris Bumbray, and Executive Produced by Berge Garabedian.
Over-the-top action sequences. Bone-crunching fights between titans of the action genre. A popular horror director getting his chance to make a massive-budget blockbuster. Fast & Furious 7 (watch it Here) brings all of those elements to the table. But it’s primarily remembered for being a production that was disrupted by tragedy. And we’re going to look into how it all played out in this episode of Revisited.
Universal Pictures doesn’t have a lot of major blockbuster franchises. In 2012, Jurassic Park had been dormant for a decade and the Bourne Identity movies had lost Jason Bourne. So they really only had Fast and Furious. It makes sense that while they were sending the sixth movie out into the world,...
Over-the-top action sequences. Bone-crunching fights between titans of the action genre. A popular horror director getting his chance to make a massive-budget blockbuster. Fast & Furious 7 (watch it Here) brings all of those elements to the table. But it’s primarily remembered for being a production that was disrupted by tragedy. And we’re going to look into how it all played out in this episode of Revisited.
Universal Pictures doesn’t have a lot of major blockbuster franchises. In 2012, Jurassic Park had been dormant for a decade and the Bourne Identity movies had lost Jason Bourne. So they really only had Fast and Furious. It makes sense that while they were sending the sixth movie out into the world,...
- 12/13/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
James Wan is currently doing the press rounds for his latest film, the superhero sequel Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (you can read our interview with him on the Aquaman 2 subject Here), but during a conversation with the folks at Collider he indicated that he may be returning to horror for his next project.
Of course, Wan got into the entertainment industry with horror, directing the franchise starter Saw as his first feature. Since then, he has directed several more horror films and started a couple more franchises in the process: Dead Silence, Insidious, The Conjuring, Insidious: Chapter 2, The Conjuring 2, and Malignant. He also branched out into revenge thriller territory with Death Sentence and directed the blockbusters Furious 7 and Aquaman.
Asked what’s next for him, Wan said, “You know, I have a tendency to want to go back and forth. So, whenever I make a smaller film,...
Of course, Wan got into the entertainment industry with horror, directing the franchise starter Saw as his first feature. Since then, he has directed several more horror films and started a couple more franchises in the process: Dead Silence, Insidious, The Conjuring, Insidious: Chapter 2, The Conjuring 2, and Malignant. He also branched out into revenge thriller territory with Death Sentence and directed the blockbusters Furious 7 and Aquaman.
Asked what’s next for him, Wan said, “You know, I have a tendency to want to go back and forth. So, whenever I make a smaller film,...
- 12/11/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Five Nights at Freddy’s is a supernatural horror film directed by Emma Tammi, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Seth Cuddeback. Based on a video game series of the same name by Scott Cawthon, the film revolves around a troubled security guard who starts his new job at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria. You know what happens next. Five Nights at Freddy’s stars Mike Schmidt, Elizabeth Lail, and Matthew Lillard. So, if you love the horror film here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Willy’s Wonderland (Hulu & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Screen Media Films
Synopsis: When his car breaks down, a quiet loner (Nic Cage) agrees to clean an abandoned family fun center in exchange for repairs. He soon finds himself waging war against possessed animatronic mascots while trapped inside Willy’s Wonderland.
Dead Silence (Peacock & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Universal Pictures
Synopsis: You Scream. You Die. Dare...
Willy’s Wonderland (Hulu & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Screen Media Films
Synopsis: When his car breaks down, a quiet loner (Nic Cage) agrees to clean an abandoned family fun center in exchange for repairs. He soon finds himself waging war against possessed animatronic mascots while trapped inside Willy’s Wonderland.
Dead Silence (Peacock & Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Universal Pictures
Synopsis: You Scream. You Die. Dare...
- 10/29/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
One of the best decisions the creatives behind Blumhouse's "Five Nights at Freddy's" film adaptation (read /Film's review) made was hiring Jim Henson's Creature Shop to manufacture its merrily murderous mascot animatronics as real-life puppets and not CGI creations. Both the movie and the original video games take place at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza, a Chuck E. Cheese-style family entertainment center populated by giant animatronics who like to sneak around and murder people under the cover of night. It would be one thing if Mr. Fazbear and his friends were obviously computer-animated in the film. But the fact they're as tactile as the flesh-and-blood humans they're stalking makes the horror of the situation that much more immediate and perceptible.
Puppet horror, in general, thrives on practical effects for similar reasons. Part of what makes the ventriloquist dummies work in films like "Magic" and "Dead Silence" -- besides their creepily uncanny...
Puppet horror, in general, thrives on practical effects for similar reasons. Part of what makes the ventriloquist dummies work in films like "Magic" and "Dead Silence" -- besides their creepily uncanny...
- 10/27/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Not many directors are responsible for a single massive horror franchise. James Wan has three under his belt. Since his 2004 feature debut “Saw,” the Australian filmmaker and founder of the Atomic Monster production company has had a hand in creating some of the most influential horror movies of the 21st century. He’s shown no signs of stopping anytime soon.
Born in Malaysia and raised in Australia since age 7, Wan graduated with a degree in Media from Rmit University in 1999. In 2004, he headed to Hollywood with his friend Leigh Whannell, directing Whannell’s nasty script about a killer who uses deadly games to torment those he deems necessary to punish. Released by Lionsgate, the first “Saw” movie was a ridiculously profitable success, grossing over $103 million on a $1 million budget. It spawned a franchise with a truly intense, labyrinthine mythology and a dedicated fanbase. Although he’s never directed or written a followup,...
Born in Malaysia and raised in Australia since age 7, Wan graduated with a degree in Media from Rmit University in 1999. In 2004, he headed to Hollywood with his friend Leigh Whannell, directing Whannell’s nasty script about a killer who uses deadly games to torment those he deems necessary to punish. Released by Lionsgate, the first “Saw” movie was a ridiculously profitable success, grossing over $103 million on a $1 million budget. It spawned a franchise with a truly intense, labyrinthine mythology and a dedicated fanbase. Although he’s never directed or written a followup,...
- 10/26/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Having taken the world by storm with "Saw" in 2004, Australian director James Wan and writer Leigh Whannell were suddenly the hottest new act in horror. Unfortunately, three years later, the duo would suffer the dreaded "sophomore slump" with "Dead Silence," an original puppet horror film that was lambasted by critics and bombed at the box office, barely matching its $20 million budget. It's a shame, honestly. I won't deny that "Dead Silence" has its problems (which we will get into), but it's also an enthrallingly gothic tale of mystery and the macabre (one bursting with creative ideas and inventively ghastly visuals). Not to mention it functions as a useful primer for the rest of Wan and Whannell's horror oeuvre.
"Dead Silence" starts out pretty nasty and only gets meaner the further along it goes. Upon being anonymously gifted with a ventriloquist doll named Billy (think Slappy from "Goosebumps" only somehow even...
"Dead Silence" starts out pretty nasty and only gets meaner the further along it goes. Upon being anonymously gifted with a ventriloquist doll named Billy (think Slappy from "Goosebumps" only somehow even...
- 10/20/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Amazon is running a massive sale on over 100 Scream Factory titles today, including some of the lowest-ever prices on their 4K UHDs and Blu-rays. Now is the time to stock up!
Here are some of the top horror highlights from the sale…
Halloween 4K UHDs:
Halloween – $22.99 Halloween II – $20.99 Halloween III – $20.99 Halloween 4 – $20.99 Halloween 5 – $19.99 Halloween 6 / Halloween H20 / Halloween: Resurrection – $59.99
John Carpenter 4K UHDs:
They Live – $18.99 They Live [Steelbook] – $23.99 The Fog – $19.99 The Fog [Steelbook] – $25.99 Prince of Darkness – $19.99 Escape From New York – $20.99 Halloween – $22.99
4K UHDs:
Child’s Play – $22.99 Child’s Play 2 – $20.99 Child’s Play 3 – $19.99 The Howling – $19.99 The Funhouse – $19.99 Slumber Party Massacre / Slumber Party Massacre II – $20.99 Carrie – $20.99 Carrie [Steelbook] – $22.17 Brotherhood of the Wolf – $20.99 Cat People – $20.99 Happy Death Day – $20.99 Happy Death Day 2U – $20.99 Army of Darkness – $21.99 Evil Dead (2013) – $21.99 Dog Soldiers – $21.99 The Haunting of Julia – $21.99 Lifeforce – $21.99 Krampus: The Naughty Cut – $21.99 Alligator – $21.99 The People Under the Stairs -$22.99 Bubba Ho-Tep – $22.99 The Exorcist III – $22.99 Dawn of the Dead (2004) – $22.99 Motel Hell – $22.99 Dead Silence – $22.99 The Return of the Living Dead...
Here are some of the top horror highlights from the sale…
Halloween 4K UHDs:
Halloween – $22.99 Halloween II – $20.99 Halloween III – $20.99 Halloween 4 – $20.99 Halloween 5 – $19.99 Halloween 6 / Halloween H20 / Halloween: Resurrection – $59.99
John Carpenter 4K UHDs:
They Live – $18.99 They Live [Steelbook] – $23.99 The Fog – $19.99 The Fog [Steelbook] – $25.99 Prince of Darkness – $19.99 Escape From New York – $20.99 Halloween – $22.99
4K UHDs:
Child’s Play – $22.99 Child’s Play 2 – $20.99 Child’s Play 3 – $19.99 The Howling – $19.99 The Funhouse – $19.99 Slumber Party Massacre / Slumber Party Massacre II – $20.99 Carrie – $20.99 Carrie [Steelbook] – $22.17 Brotherhood of the Wolf – $20.99 Cat People – $20.99 Happy Death Day – $20.99 Happy Death Day 2U – $20.99 Army of Darkness – $21.99 Evil Dead (2013) – $21.99 Dog Soldiers – $21.99 The Haunting of Julia – $21.99 Lifeforce – $21.99 Krampus: The Naughty Cut – $21.99 Alligator – $21.99 The People Under the Stairs -$22.99 Bubba Ho-Tep – $22.99 The Exorcist III – $22.99 Dawn of the Dead (2004) – $22.99 Motel Hell – $22.99 Dead Silence – $22.99 The Return of the Living Dead...
- 10/19/2023
- by Alex DiVincenzo
- bloody-disgusting.com
James Wan earned his recognition by directing known horror movies. His first notable work was 2004’s ‘Saw,’ a horror movie that spawned the entire franchise, for which the tenth installment will be released later this month. Wan also directed ‘Dead Silence,’ and the first two installments of ‘The Conjuring’ and ‘Insidious’ franchises. His first non-horror movie was 2015’s ‘Furious 7,’ which grossed over $1.5 billion. In 2018, he debuted in the superhero genre with ‘Aquaman,’ which grossed $1.148 billion and became the highest-grossing DC movie ever.
After five years of waiting, ‘Aquaman’ will finally get a sequel this December, and Wan returned to direct it. However, DC Studios is currently in a rough era since every DC movie released this year was a commercial failure. Since Wan’s ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ is set to close Dceu for good, the box-office predictions for the upcoming sequel do not look promising at all.
After five years of waiting, ‘Aquaman’ will finally get a sequel this December, and Wan returned to direct it. However, DC Studios is currently in a rough era since every DC movie released this year was a commercial failure. Since Wan’s ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom’ is set to close Dceu for good, the box-office predictions for the upcoming sequel do not look promising at all.
- 9/17/2023
- by Lukas Abramovich
- Comic Basics
In James Wan's "Aquaman," Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa) struggles with his legacy as heir to Atlantis and overcomes obstacles to claim what is rightfully his. This victory is hard-earned and not without opposition, and this transition will serve as the premise for Wan's "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom." Now, as the King of Atlantis, Arthur has to contend with the return of Black Manta (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II) and seek help from his estranged family to protect his kingdom. While "Aquaman 2" will lean heavily into the themes of revenge and heroic retribution, director James Wan has also incorporated a primary element from the "Fast and Furious" franchise: family.
In a trailer reveal event for "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" attended by /Film's Jenna Busch, Wan spoke about the themes the sequel embodies, and how family emerges as a key motivator for Arthur in the upcoming film. While explaining this aspect,...
In a trailer reveal event for "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" attended by /Film's Jenna Busch, Wan spoke about the themes the sequel embodies, and how family emerges as a key motivator for Arthur in the upcoming film. While explaining this aspect,...
- 9/14/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
Dolls, with their lifeless eyes and eerily human-like features, have long been a staple in horror cinema. Their uncanny ability to blur the line between the animate and inanimate makes them the perfect vessel for terror. Whether they’re possessed by malevolent spirits or simply designed to be unsettling, these dolls are anything but child’s play. Here’s a list of ten creepy doll horror movies that will make you rethink that old toy collection gathering dust in your attic.
MGM 10. Child’s Play (1988)
The film that introduced the world to Chucky, the killer doll with the soul of a serial murderer. When young Andy receives a “Good Guy” doll for his birthday, little does he know that it’s possessed by the spirit of Charles Lee Ray, a notorious killer. Child’s Play masterfully combines dark humor with genuine scares, making it a standout in the creepy doll subgenre. Its success spawned numerous sequels,...
MGM 10. Child’s Play (1988)
The film that introduced the world to Chucky, the killer doll with the soul of a serial murderer. When young Andy receives a “Good Guy” doll for his birthday, little does he know that it’s possessed by the spirit of Charles Lee Ray, a notorious killer. Child’s Play masterfully combines dark humor with genuine scares, making it a standout in the creepy doll subgenre. Its success spawned numerous sequels,...
- 9/8/2023
- by Kimberley Elizabeth
Don’t Look Away is a horror thriller film directed by Michael Bafaro, he also worked on the screenplay with Michael Mitton. The horror film follows the story of Frankie, a young woman who finds out that ever since she laid her eyes on a killer mannequin, it shows up wherever she goes and kills her friends. So, if you loved Don’t Look Away here are some similar movies you could watch next.
Annabelle Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: Before The Conjuring, there was Annabelle. Capable of unspeakable evil, the actual Annabelle doll exists locked up in an occult museum in Connecticut — visited only by a priest who blesses her twice a month. In this supernatural thriller from producer James Wan, Annabelle’s story begins before the evil was unleashed. John Form (Ward Horton — The Wolf of Wall Street) has found the perfect gift for his expectant wife, Mia (Annabelle Wallis — X Men: First Class) — a beautiful,...
Annabelle Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: Before The Conjuring, there was Annabelle. Capable of unspeakable evil, the actual Annabelle doll exists locked up in an occult museum in Connecticut — visited only by a priest who blesses her twice a month. In this supernatural thriller from producer James Wan, Annabelle’s story begins before the evil was unleashed. John Form (Ward Horton — The Wolf of Wall Street) has found the perfect gift for his expectant wife, Mia (Annabelle Wallis — X Men: First Class) — a beautiful,...
- 9/3/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Slotherhouse is a horror comedy film directed by Matthew Goodhue from a screenplay by Bradley Fowler and Cadey Lanigan. The film follows the story of Emily Young (Lisa Ambalavanar), a high school who wants to be the sorority’s president in order to get votes she adopts a cute sloth as a mascot for her campaign but things go totally batshit when the sloth is implicated in multiple fatalities. So, if you loved Slotherhouse here are some similar movies you could check out next.
Child’s Play (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – MGM
Synopsis: A contemporary re-imagining of the 1988 horror classic, Child’s Play follows Karen (Aubrey Plaza), a single mother who gifts her son Andy (Gabriel Bateman) a Buddi doll, unaware of its more sinister nature.
Sorority Row (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Summit Entertainment
Synopsis: It’s all fun and games until someone gets stabbed with a tire iron. When...
Child’s Play (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – MGM
Synopsis: A contemporary re-imagining of the 1988 horror classic, Child’s Play follows Karen (Aubrey Plaza), a single mother who gifts her son Andy (Gabriel Bateman) a Buddi doll, unaware of its more sinister nature.
Sorority Row (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Summit Entertainment
Synopsis: It’s all fun and games until someone gets stabbed with a tire iron. When...
- 8/28/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
The most wonderful time of year is nearly upon us! With Halloween season just around the corner, Peacock unveiled an impressive lineup today of more than 100 Halloween, horror, thriller, and spooky season titles hitting the platform this September.
Get ready, the list is massive…
Whether you’re looking for recent releases like Hypnotic, or cult gems like Slither, Peacock invites you to face your fears in September. Binge complete freakish franchises like Chucky, Saw, and Amityville, or tune-in for fun family fare that includes Ghostbusters and Casper. Look for a variety of classic horror to arrive on the streaming service mid-September.
Speaking of “Chucky,” if you’re looking to catch up on the series ahead of season three, Peacock brings “Chucky” season two to their Halloween HQ on September 4. That gives you a whole month to catch up before the October 4 premiere of “Chucky” season three.
Full Peacock Halloween horror highlights below.
Get ready, the list is massive…
Whether you’re looking for recent releases like Hypnotic, or cult gems like Slither, Peacock invites you to face your fears in September. Binge complete freakish franchises like Chucky, Saw, and Amityville, or tune-in for fun family fare that includes Ghostbusters and Casper. Look for a variety of classic horror to arrive on the streaming service mid-September.
Speaking of “Chucky,” if you’re looking to catch up on the series ahead of season three, Peacock brings “Chucky” season two to their Halloween HQ on September 4. That gives you a whole month to catch up before the October 4 premiere of “Chucky” season three.
Full Peacock Halloween horror highlights below.
- 8/24/2023
- by Meagan Navarro
- bloody-disgusting.com
The episode of Deconstructing… covering Malignant was Written, Edited, and Narrated by Kier Gomes, Produced by Tyler Nichols and John Fallon, and Executive Produced by Berge Garabedian.
Malignant (watch it Here) is your worst nightmare. Whenever the mood strikes and I’m looking for a spooky, atmospheric midnight movie to deliver on the thrills and chills, I’ll turn to Malignant to satisfy the craving. It’s a movie that showcases every one of James Wan’s directorial sensibilities and combines what we love about of each of his films. It’s got the sleepy and somber look of Insidious, the cold and foggy lighting of Dead Silence and the utter brutality of Saw– while also giving us the incredible cinematography and unsettling horror of The Conjuring. There’s a specific feeling that Malignant evokes which makes you as intrigued as you are afraid. A specific “sleep walking through your...
Malignant (watch it Here) is your worst nightmare. Whenever the mood strikes and I’m looking for a spooky, atmospheric midnight movie to deliver on the thrills and chills, I’ll turn to Malignant to satisfy the craving. It’s a movie that showcases every one of James Wan’s directorial sensibilities and combines what we love about of each of his films. It’s got the sleepy and somber look of Insidious, the cold and foggy lighting of Dead Silence and the utter brutality of Saw– while also giving us the incredible cinematography and unsettling horror of The Conjuring. There’s a specific feeling that Malignant evokes which makes you as intrigued as you are afraid. A specific “sleep walking through your...
- 8/1/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
(Welcome to Tales from the Box Office, our column that examines box office miracles, disasters, and everything in between, as well as what we can learn from them.)
Cinematic universes are all the rage now but it's easy to forget how recent a phenomenon this actually is. The notion of a cinematic universe didn't really exist until around 2010 when it became clear what Marvel Studios was doing with its various superhero franchises in the lead-up to the record-breaking "The Avengers" in the summer of 2012. Sure, we had Kevin Smith's films making up the View Askewniverse starting with "Clerks" in 1994 -- not to mention Universal's monster movie crossovers from decades earlier. Still, once Marvel perfected the model, Hollywood chased it down rabidly. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it fails spectacularly. But arguably nobody has done it better this side of Marvel than James Wan and "The Conjuring" universe.
Wan...
Cinematic universes are all the rage now but it's easy to forget how recent a phenomenon this actually is. The notion of a cinematic universe didn't really exist until around 2010 when it became clear what Marvel Studios was doing with its various superhero franchises in the lead-up to the record-breaking "The Avengers" in the summer of 2012. Sure, we had Kevin Smith's films making up the View Askewniverse starting with "Clerks" in 1994 -- not to mention Universal's monster movie crossovers from decades earlier. Still, once Marvel perfected the model, Hollywood chased it down rabidly. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it fails spectacularly. But arguably nobody has done it better this side of Marvel than James Wan and "The Conjuring" universe.
Wan...
- 7/22/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
Onetime Asutralian college students and longtime friends, James Wan and Leigh Whannell began their careers as filmmakers with a proof-of-concept short that — once fully financed — turned into Saw, a cleverly-plotted, attention-grabbing, gore-soaked horror film that spawned eight sequels in as many years. With commercial success came creative freedom. For Wan and Whannell that meant several additional collaborations, including the criminally underseen and underappreciated Dead Silence; Death Sentence, a brutally nihilistic riff on Death Wish; and another franchise/series starter, Insidious, an ingeniously conceived and executed supernatural thriller. Wan went on to kickstart another supernatural franchise with The Conjuring (a virtual cinematic universe at this point), graduated to $100M+ budgets with the Fast & the Furious series, and directed arguably the most artistic and commercially...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 7/7/2023
- Screen Anarchy
For this month’s installment of “TV Terrors” we revisit the horror reality special “Can You Survive a Horror Movie?” which aired on Chiller TV for Friday the 13th in July 2012.
By the early aughts, the horror cable network Chiller TV had reached the point to where they were trotting out their own original series’ and movies. Among them was their heavily advertised attempt at a reality series entitled “Can You Survive a Horror Movie?” The premise of the one off special was essentially “Fear Factor” and “Mythbusters” mixed with a hard shot of horror. The hosts would not only test certain situations in the horror genre, but also partook in “challenges” related to horror movies. It didn’t actually dissect the genre, or bring it down to reality as much as, say, “The Zombie Survival Guide.” Instead, it was unabashedly a horror reality show.
Filmed at Camp NoBeBoSco (where...
By the early aughts, the horror cable network Chiller TV had reached the point to where they were trotting out their own original series’ and movies. Among them was their heavily advertised attempt at a reality series entitled “Can You Survive a Horror Movie?” The premise of the one off special was essentially “Fear Factor” and “Mythbusters” mixed with a hard shot of horror. The hosts would not only test certain situations in the horror genre, but also partook in “challenges” related to horror movies. It didn’t actually dissect the genre, or bring it down to reality as much as, say, “The Zombie Survival Guide.” Instead, it was unabashedly a horror reality show.
Filmed at Camp NoBeBoSco (where...
- 6/29/2023
- by Felix Vasquez Jr
- bloody-disgusting.com
The episode of Deconstructing… covering Insidious was Written, Edited, and Narrated by Kier Gomes, Produced by Tyler Nichols and John Fallon, and Executive Produced by Berge Garabedian.
When you’re recommending a spooky movie to your friends, how would you get them interested in Insidious (watch it Here)? How would you describe what it’s about? Maybe you’d go straight to the obvious and explain that It’s another haunted house movie with demons and kids making creepy drawings. Or maybe you’d describe it as a story about a kid who gets caught in a paranormal mind-wrestle with a monster who wants to possess his body.
In either case, you’d be recommending a movie that sounds appealing, but lacks a certain uniqueness. See, Insidious is a far more interesting film that we often give it credit for. It’s a creepy, haunting, and even (at times) deep...
When you’re recommending a spooky movie to your friends, how would you get them interested in Insidious (watch it Here)? How would you describe what it’s about? Maybe you’d go straight to the obvious and explain that It’s another haunted house movie with demons and kids making creepy drawings. Or maybe you’d describe it as a story about a kid who gets caught in a paranormal mind-wrestle with a monster who wants to possess his body.
In either case, you’d be recommending a movie that sounds appealing, but lacks a certain uniqueness. See, Insidious is a far more interesting film that we often give it credit for. It’s a creepy, haunting, and even (at times) deep...
- 6/6/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Creepy dolls have been a part of horror movies for decades, but few horror filmmakers have embraced the trope as much as James Wan has. The director has just come off of producing "M3GAN," a treatise on killer dolls in a post-ai world, but Wan has been intimately familiar with designing terrifying toys ever since he first started working. It's become a calling card for him at this point in his career, as producer of many a James Wan project James Blum pointed out.
Wan's debut feature, "Saw," introduced the world to the tricycle-riding, spiral-cheeked Billy the Puppet. Although Billy was the vocal and visual conduit for the human Jigsaw Killer, played by Tobin Bell, the ventriloquist iconography was unsettling enough to become the unofficial mascot of the horror movie franchise. Speaking of ventriloquism, Wan also directed "Dead Silence," about the vengeful ghost of a ventriloquist whose appearance eerily resembles one of her dolls,...
Wan's debut feature, "Saw," introduced the world to the tricycle-riding, spiral-cheeked Billy the Puppet. Although Billy was the vocal and visual conduit for the human Jigsaw Killer, played by Tobin Bell, the ventriloquist iconography was unsettling enough to become the unofficial mascot of the horror movie franchise. Speaking of ventriloquism, Wan also directed "Dead Silence," about the vengeful ghost of a ventriloquist whose appearance eerily resembles one of her dolls,...
- 4/21/2023
- by Andrew Housman
- Slash Film
After two installments that served as prequels to the Patrick Wilson/Rose Bryne haunted house chillers, “Insidious: The Red Door” takes the underdog horror franchise back to the present.
It’s been 10 years (in real-time and movie time) since the events of “Insidious: Chapter Two,” and the college-aged Dalton (Ty Simpkins) must help his father (Patrick Wilson) return to the “Further” to put an end to their supernatural perils once and for all.
Wilson makes his directorial debut with the horror feature. It’s the first of the franchise since “Insidious: The Final Key” earned $67 million domestically and $167 million worldwide on a $10 million budget in 2018. Scott Teems wrote the script based on a story by franchise co-creator Leigh Whannell.
Also Read:
Why ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ Director Went Bonkers Over Russell Crowe: ‘Who Doesn’t Want to See the Gladiator Take on the Devil?’
The first “Insidious,” which opened in...
It’s been 10 years (in real-time and movie time) since the events of “Insidious: Chapter Two,” and the college-aged Dalton (Ty Simpkins) must help his father (Patrick Wilson) return to the “Further” to put an end to their supernatural perils once and for all.
Wilson makes his directorial debut with the horror feature. It’s the first of the franchise since “Insidious: The Final Key” earned $67 million domestically and $167 million worldwide on a $10 million budget in 2018. Scott Teems wrote the script based on a story by franchise co-creator Leigh Whannell.
Also Read:
Why ‘The Pope’s Exorcist’ Director Went Bonkers Over Russell Crowe: ‘Who Doesn’t Want to See the Gladiator Take on the Devil?’
The first “Insidious,” which opened in...
- 4/19/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
We’re getting this week started with a new episode of the Wtf Happened to This Horror Movie? video series, and in this one we’re looking back at one of James Wan’s “creepy puppet” movies, the 2007 release Dead Silence (watch it Here). To find out all about Dead Silence, check out the video embedded above!
Directed by James Wan from a screenplay by Leigh Whannell, based on a story Wan and Whannell crafted together, Dead Silence has the following synopsis: Dare to unlock the deadly curse of Mary Shaw… From the creators of Saw comes a new thriller of relentless terror! Ever since Mary Shaw was hunted down and killed, the small town of Ravens Fair has been haunted by horrific deaths. When a local’s wife is brutally murdered, he returns home to unravel the terrifying legend of Mary Shaw and the reason why when you see her,...
Directed by James Wan from a screenplay by Leigh Whannell, based on a story Wan and Whannell crafted together, Dead Silence has the following synopsis: Dare to unlock the deadly curse of Mary Shaw… From the creators of Saw comes a new thriller of relentless terror! Ever since Mary Shaw was hunted down and killed, the small town of Ravens Fair has been haunted by horrific deaths. When a local’s wife is brutally murdered, he returns home to unravel the terrifying legend of Mary Shaw and the reason why when you see her,...
- 4/17/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
After firmly establishing themselves as filmmakers to watch with the expected success of Saw in 2004, director James Wan and writer Leigh Whannell reunited for Dead Silence. It would be the first of two Wan films to underperform in 2007, followed by Death Sentence. While he would go on to prove himself as a true master of horror, even a “lesser” Wan effort has plenty of merit.
Hints of his future brilliance are all over Dead Silence, with a rich, neo-gothic atmosphere, well-executed horror set pieces, inventive visual storytelling, and a bonkers twist. In many ways, Dead Silence feels like a transitional point between Saw‘s grit and the expertly crafted scares of Insidious and The Conjuring, although its overall tone is perhaps closest to Malignant.
With viewers feverishly embracing Wan’s latest effort, Dead Silence is ripe for reappraisal — and there’s no better way to do so than via Scream Factory...
Hints of his future brilliance are all over Dead Silence, with a rich, neo-gothic atmosphere, well-executed horror set pieces, inventive visual storytelling, and a bonkers twist. In many ways, Dead Silence feels like a transitional point between Saw‘s grit and the expertly crafted scares of Insidious and The Conjuring, although its overall tone is perhaps closest to Malignant.
With viewers feverishly embracing Wan’s latest effort, Dead Silence is ripe for reappraisal — and there’s no better way to do so than via Scream Factory...
- 3/28/2023
- by Alex DiVincenzo
- bloody-disgusting.com
Every bit as outrageously entertaining as horror fans would expect from Housebound director Gerard Johnstone, Malignant writer Akela Cooper, and producers James Wan and Jason Blum, M3GAN danced into theaters the first week of January.
With a persuasive marketing campaign led by a buzzy trailer and a strong social media presence, the film performed beyond expectations, grossing $173.4 million worldwide on a $12 million budget. A sequel, M3GAN 2.0, was swiftly put into development for a January 2025 release.
Until then, viewers can now enjoy both the theatrical and unrated cuts of M3GAN on Blu-ray. The release also carries three making-of featurettes: “New Vision of Horror,” “Bringing Life to M3GAN,” and “Getting Hacked.” Despite running a scant 14 minutes in total, they pack in soundbites from a wide array of cast and crew members.
In addition to Johnstone, Cooper, Wan, and Blum, participants include actors Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Amie Donald, Ronny Chieng,...
With a persuasive marketing campaign led by a buzzy trailer and a strong social media presence, the film performed beyond expectations, grossing $173.4 million worldwide on a $12 million budget. A sequel, M3GAN 2.0, was swiftly put into development for a January 2025 release.
Until then, viewers can now enjoy both the theatrical and unrated cuts of M3GAN on Blu-ray. The release also carries three making-of featurettes: “New Vision of Horror,” “Bringing Life to M3GAN,” and “Getting Hacked.” Despite running a scant 14 minutes in total, they pack in soundbites from a wide array of cast and crew members.
In addition to Johnstone, Cooper, Wan, and Blum, participants include actors Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Amie Donald, Ronny Chieng,...
- 3/21/2023
- by Alex DiVincenzo
- bloody-disgusting.com
The tagline for James Wan’s “Dead Silence” is “You scream. You die.” And let me tell you, this particular writer would be dead. But for those of you who wouldn’t be, the 2007 horror film from the team that brought audiences “Saw,” “The Conjuring,” and “Insidious” has now been released the Collector’s Edition on 4K Uhd and Blu-ray!
Continue reading Collector’s Edition Of James Wan’s 2007 Film ‘Dead Silence’ Released [Contest] at The Playlist.
Continue reading Collector’s Edition Of James Wan’s 2007 Film ‘Dead Silence’ Released [Contest] at The Playlist.
- 3/20/2023
- by Jamie Rogers
- The Playlist
Synopsis: A widower returns to his hometown to search for answers to his wife’s murder, which may be linked to the ghost of a murdered ventriloquist. Review: The year was 2007, and I remember saying to myself, there just aren’t enough horror films with “talking dummies” featured in them (no pun intended). Of course we …
The post Film Review: Dead Silence (2007) appeared first on Horror News | Hnn.
The post Film Review: Dead Silence (2007) appeared first on Horror News | Hnn.
- 3/18/2023
- by Adrian Halen
- Horror News
For as much as the controversial DC Extended Universe or Snyderverse is known for its desaturated visuals and hard-edged tone, there are several entries in the franchise that have managed to buck this trend. For example, David F. Sandberg's "Shazam!" is a decidedly comedic superhero affair with dashes of horror and drama, whereas Cathy Yan's "Birds of Prey" is a Day-Glo-colored riot grrrl rumpus.
Then there's James Wan's "Aquaman," a film full of pleasingly bright colors and enough genre shifts to make your head spin. One minute, it's a dramatic fantasy parable about environmentalism; the next, it's an aquatic horror B-movie. Then, before you know it, the film suddenly turns into a fish-out-of-water rom-com (no pun intended) in the vein of Disney's "The Little Mermaid," only to abruptly transform again, this time into the DC equivalent of a pulpy Jules Verne sci-fi adventure.
Does it always work?...
Then there's James Wan's "Aquaman," a film full of pleasingly bright colors and enough genre shifts to make your head spin. One minute, it's a dramatic fantasy parable about environmentalism; the next, it's an aquatic horror B-movie. Then, before you know it, the film suddenly turns into a fish-out-of-water rom-com (no pun intended) in the vein of Disney's "The Little Mermaid," only to abruptly transform again, this time into the DC equivalent of a pulpy Jules Verne sci-fi adventure.
Does it always work?...
- 3/16/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
"You scream. You Die." Directed by James Wan and written by Leigh Whannell, Dead Silence is coming to 4K Uhd and Blu-ray in a new Collector's Edition release from Scream Factory on March 14th, and we have a look at the full list of special features, including new interviews with Wan and Whannell!
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – On March 14, 2023, Scream Factory™ presents Dead Silence (Collector’s Edition), a 2-disc set featuring the terrifying film starring Rwan Kwanten, Amber Valletta, Donnie Wahlberg and Bob Gunton, on 4K Uhd™ + Blu-ray™. Special features include new 4K masters, and brand new interviews with director James Wan, writer Leigh Whannell, and ventriloquist dummy creator Tim Selberg.
Dare to unluck the deadly curse of Mary Shaw…
From James Wan and Leigh Whannell, the horror masters behind Saw, The Conjuring and Insidious, comes a new thriller of relentless terror! Ever since Mary Shaw was hunted down and killed,...
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – On March 14, 2023, Scream Factory™ presents Dead Silence (Collector’s Edition), a 2-disc set featuring the terrifying film starring Rwan Kwanten, Amber Valletta, Donnie Wahlberg and Bob Gunton, on 4K Uhd™ + Blu-ray™. Special features include new 4K masters, and brand new interviews with director James Wan, writer Leigh Whannell, and ventriloquist dummy creator Tim Selberg.
Dare to unluck the deadly curse of Mary Shaw…
From James Wan and Leigh Whannell, the horror masters behind Saw, The Conjuring and Insidious, comes a new thriller of relentless terror! Ever since Mary Shaw was hunted down and killed,...
- 2/16/2023
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Austin Majors, best known for his work on NYPD Blue, has died.
TMZ first reported the news, revealing that the 27-year-old died while staying at a homeless facility in Los Angeles.
The outlet said that there's "no foul play suspected," and it's "believed he may have ingested a fatal amount of fentanyl."
Majors' family shared a statement with People shortly after the news broke.
The statement calls Majors "a loving, artistic, brilliant, and kind human being. Austin took great joy and pride in his acting career."
"He was an active Eagle Scout and graduated Salutatorian in High School."
"He went on to graduate from USC's School of Cinematic Arts with a passion of directing and music producing."
"Austin's younger sister, Kali, says her fondest memories with Austin were growing up on set with him, volunteering at events with 'Kids With a Cause', and backpacking together," the statement continues.
TMZ first reported the news, revealing that the 27-year-old died while staying at a homeless facility in Los Angeles.
The outlet said that there's "no foul play suspected," and it's "believed he may have ingested a fatal amount of fentanyl."
Majors' family shared a statement with People shortly after the news broke.
The statement calls Majors "a loving, artistic, brilliant, and kind human being. Austin took great joy and pride in his acting career."
"He was an active Eagle Scout and graduated Salutatorian in High School."
"He went on to graduate from USC's School of Cinematic Arts with a passion of directing and music producing."
"Austin's younger sister, Kali, says her fondest memories with Austin were growing up on set with him, volunteering at events with 'Kids With a Cause', and backpacking together," the statement continues.
- 2/14/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
In February 2023, Netflix will remove a bunch of movie and TV series from its library,
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Find a full list of every movie and TV series being added to Netflix this month here.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon...
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Find a full list of every movie and TV series being added to Netflix this month here.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon...
- 2/10/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
In February 2023, Netflix will remove a bunch of movie and TV series from its library,
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Find a full list of every movie and TV series being added to Netflix this month here.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon...
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Find a full list of every movie and TV series being added to Netflix this month here.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon...
- 2/10/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
In February 2023, Netflix will remove a bunch of movie and TV series from its library,
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Find a full list of every movie and TV series being added to Netflix this month here.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon...
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Find a full list of every movie and TV series being added to Netflix this month here.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon...
- 2/1/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
In February 2023, Netflix will remove a bunch of movie and TV series from its library,
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Guest House
Holmes & Watson
Hostel
The King’s Speech
Letters to Juliet
Love Happens...
Netflix UK and Netflix US takes down numerous titles each month without fanfare, meaning that many things on your watchlist could suddenly disappear.
These removals are due to licencing deals coming to an end. Often, the titles make their way back to Netflix in the following year, but sometimes they leave to go to other platforms.
This month sees a selection of Netflix Originals being taken down, also.
To minimise surprise, we have put together a comprehensive list of everything being removed in both Netflix UK and US.
Nb: The Independent compiled this list with help from What’s on Netflix.
UK
Movies
1 February
Amélie
Biking Borders
Christmas Under Wraps
The Cider House Rules
Collateral (2004)
Equilibrium
Event Horizon
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Guest House
Holmes & Watson
Hostel
The King’s Speech
Letters to Juliet
Love Happens...
- 1/31/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
Thanks to strong reviews, a buzzy trailer and young fans celebrating the film on TikTok, “M3GAN” is about to top 100 million worldwide. The Gerard Johnstone-directed film was sold as yet another horror team-up between Jason Blum’s Blumhouse and James Wan’s Atomic Monster, with both moguls now famous enough among horror fans for such a pitch to qualify as akin to Steven Spielberg and George Lucas uniting for “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”
The film’s not-so-secret weapon, however, is its screenwriter Akela Cooper. The self-professed genre nerd isn’t yet a household name, but she may be on her way to becoming one.
Cooper took time last week to speak with TheWrap, discussing the origins of “M3GAN,” trimming the initially R-rated film to a PG-13 and inserting her parents into the “Star Trek” universe. Most importantly, she answered tough questions about the biggest plot hole in her 2018 slasher romp “Hell Fest.
The film’s not-so-secret weapon, however, is its screenwriter Akela Cooper. The self-professed genre nerd isn’t yet a household name, but she may be on her way to becoming one.
Cooper took time last week to speak with TheWrap, discussing the origins of “M3GAN,” trimming the initially R-rated film to a PG-13 and inserting her parents into the “Star Trek” universe. Most importantly, she answered tough questions about the biggest plot hole in her 2018 slasher romp “Hell Fest.
- 1/18/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
This article contains major spoilers for "M3GAN" and "Child's Play."
Ever since "The Twilight Zone" introduced the world to Talky Tina, the killer toy has become one of horror's most reliable antagonists. Out of the woodwork came slasher villains like Annabelle ("The Conjuring"), Billy ("Dead Silence"), and Blade ("Puppet Master"), but as of this moment, the world has been rightfully overtaken by "M3GAN" fever. Her incredible dance skills, coupled with her mischievous personality, have propelled the sassy murderer to a prominent spot among the killer doll hall of fame. M3GAN slays in every sense of the word.
It got me thinking of what movie would pair the best with "M3GAN" for a thematic double bill. /Film's William Bibbiani made a compelling argument for Wes Craven's "Deadly Friend," which would definitely make a fun companion piece. But for this double feature, I have a more recognizable title in mind. The...
Ever since "The Twilight Zone" introduced the world to Talky Tina, the killer toy has become one of horror's most reliable antagonists. Out of the woodwork came slasher villains like Annabelle ("The Conjuring"), Billy ("Dead Silence"), and Blade ("Puppet Master"), but as of this moment, the world has been rightfully overtaken by "M3GAN" fever. Her incredible dance skills, coupled with her mischievous personality, have propelled the sassy murderer to a prominent spot among the killer doll hall of fame. M3GAN slays in every sense of the word.
It got me thinking of what movie would pair the best with "M3GAN" for a thematic double bill. /Film's William Bibbiani made a compelling argument for Wes Craven's "Deadly Friend," which would definitely make a fun companion piece. But for this double feature, I have a more recognizable title in mind. The...
- 1/13/2023
- by Matthew Bilodeau
- Slash Film
‘M3GAN’: James Wan and Jason Blum on Bringing Their Lifelong Love of Creepy Dolls Into the Age of AI
How did Jason Blum know that “M3GAN” would become a viral sensation? The answer is simple: The horror hitmaker has learned to never say no when James Wan comes calling with an idea about a scary little doll.
“I am very familiar with James’ love of creepy dolls,” Blum said with a laugh during a recent interview with IndieWire. “So when he said he had another idea for a creepy doll, I was very intrigued before we even read the script.”
Blum’s blind confidence in the project was certainly understandable. Over the past two decades, Wan has established himself as Hollywood’s top purveyor of films about murderous toys. When he wasn’t busy directing “Saw” and “Aquaman” movies, he made the ventriloquist murder saga “Dead Silence” and directed “The Conjuring,” which launched a series of spin-offs about a very creepy doll named Annabelle.
“I’m a bit of a creepy doll aficionado,...
“I am very familiar with James’ love of creepy dolls,” Blum said with a laugh during a recent interview with IndieWire. “So when he said he had another idea for a creepy doll, I was very intrigued before we even read the script.”
Blum’s blind confidence in the project was certainly understandable. Over the past two decades, Wan has established himself as Hollywood’s top purveyor of films about murderous toys. When he wasn’t busy directing “Saw” and “Aquaman” movies, he made the ventriloquist murder saga “Dead Silence” and directed “The Conjuring,” which launched a series of spin-offs about a very creepy doll named Annabelle.
“I’m a bit of a creepy doll aficionado,...
- 1/6/2023
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Forget vampires, zombies, or preternatural serial killers. Do you want to know what the scariest horror movie villains are? Dolls. Even in the chilling USS Indianapolis monologue from "Jaws," Robert Shaw's crusty seafarer Quint likens the black, hollow eyes of a hungry shark to those of a doll, just to make it clear how terrifying they are to behold.
To be fair, movie dolls don't entirely deserve their bad rap. Some of them are simply misunderstood and yearn for someone to love them just the way they are, flaws and all. Other ones? Not so much. There's the possessed murderous Good Guy doll from "Child's Play" (aka Chucky), the deadly magical playthings from "Puppet Master" — and who could forget that clown toy from Hell in "Poltergeist?" The 2000s and 2010s provided even more nightmare fuel for those of us with pediophobia in the forms of Billy (the puppet with...
To be fair, movie dolls don't entirely deserve their bad rap. Some of them are simply misunderstood and yearn for someone to love them just the way they are, flaws and all. Other ones? Not so much. There's the possessed murderous Good Guy doll from "Child's Play" (aka Chucky), the deadly magical playthings from "Puppet Master" — and who could forget that clown toy from Hell in "Poltergeist?" The 2000s and 2010s provided even more nightmare fuel for those of us with pediophobia in the forms of Billy (the puppet with...
- 11/21/2022
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
(Welcome to Scariest Scene Ever, a column dedicated to the most pulse-pounding moments in horror with your tour guides, horror experts Chris Evangelista and Matt Donato. In this edition, Matt rants about "Dead Silence" for the seventeen billionth time here on /Film.)
James Wan and Leigh Whannell shaped an entire horror movement with their rise to fame "Saw," and have since become contemporary mainstays both with collaborative and separate successes. Among them is a wooden bastard child — 2007's "Dead Silence," their follow-up to 2004's "Saw," was decimated by critics. Whannell has famously gone on to reveal his displeasure with how the studio machine treated "Dead Silence" (in a now-deleted personal blog entry), seemingly leaving a sour taste in everyone's mouth. Many have tried to forget "Dead Silence" exists, except me.
It was August 2017 when I was allowed to write my defense of "Dead Silence" for /Film's "The Unpopular Opinion" column.
James Wan and Leigh Whannell shaped an entire horror movement with their rise to fame "Saw," and have since become contemporary mainstays both with collaborative and separate successes. Among them is a wooden bastard child — 2007's "Dead Silence," their follow-up to 2004's "Saw," was decimated by critics. Whannell has famously gone on to reveal his displeasure with how the studio machine treated "Dead Silence" (in a now-deleted personal blog entry), seemingly leaving a sour taste in everyone's mouth. Many have tried to forget "Dead Silence" exists, except me.
It was August 2017 when I was allowed to write my defense of "Dead Silence" for /Film's "The Unpopular Opinion" column.
- 11/18/2022
- by Matt Donato
- Slash Film
If you look at James Wan's career since the beginning, it's impressive how far he has come in a relatively short time. A horror maestro, most now know the director for his work on "The Conjuring" universe. The frightful film franchise started out focusing on the paranormal investigators Lorraine and Ed Warren, before expanding to cover all the supernatural entities that have been directly or indirectly involved in the Warrens' lives.
If they didn't know Wan from his work on that IP, most audiences today may associate him now with the balls-to-the-wall horror film "Malignant." The movie with a shocking twist ruled the internet for months after its release last year, producing memes focusing on the villainous Gabriel. A horror film that was fun and didn't take itself seriously was just what horror audiences needed, and Wan and his wife, Ingrid Bisu, delivered.
Not a fan of horror? But...
If they didn't know Wan from his work on that IP, most audiences today may associate him now with the balls-to-the-wall horror film "Malignant." The movie with a shocking twist ruled the internet for months after its release last year, producing memes focusing on the villainous Gabriel. A horror film that was fun and didn't take itself seriously was just what horror audiences needed, and Wan and his wife, Ingrid Bisu, delivered.
Not a fan of horror? But...
- 10/16/2022
- by Sarah Musnicky
- Slash Film
Plot: After a breakup, Wes ends up at a remote rest stop. He finds himself locked inside the bathroom with a mysterious figure speaking from an adjacent stall. Wes soon realizes he is involved in a truly terrible situation.
Review: Because of films like Mandy and TV Shows like Lovecraft Country, cosmic horror has really made its way to the forefront of the genre in recent years. It’s something that really allows filmmakers to go crazy with their visual creativity. But Glorious does more than just provide visual thrills, giving a story where the stakes couldn’t be larger: the fate of the entire universe. While the movie is definitely a Lovecraftian Creature Feature, it’s also a wonderful character piece. Whether it’s the mysterious cosmic creature voiced by Jk Simmons or the soft-spoken Wes, there’s a lot to unpack with our two leads. And they definitely...
Review: Because of films like Mandy and TV Shows like Lovecraft Country, cosmic horror has really made its way to the forefront of the genre in recent years. It’s something that really allows filmmakers to go crazy with their visual creativity. But Glorious does more than just provide visual thrills, giving a story where the stakes couldn’t be larger: the fate of the entire universe. While the movie is definitely a Lovecraftian Creature Feature, it’s also a wonderful character piece. Whether it’s the mysterious cosmic creature voiced by Jk Simmons or the soft-spoken Wes, there’s a lot to unpack with our two leads. And they definitely...
- 8/19/2022
- by Tyler Nichols
- JoBlo.com
The European Genre Film Foundation (Egff), aimed at restoring and raising awareness of classic genre films in Europe and globally, launched at Cannes on Tuesday.
The non-profit organization, headquartered in Stockholm, will work with film libraries, archives, rights holders, academics, film festivals and other institutions. It is modelled on Martin Scorsese’s Film Foundation and the American Genre Film Archive (Agfa) in the U.S.
Among the first projects of the Egff will be an academic study of historic female genre film makers in Europe and raising funds for a 4K film scanner set-up dedicated to digitizing and restoring genre films and related material that is languishing in archives. The Egff will also be arranging symposiums, workshops and film screenings.
In its next phase the Egff will begin consultations with European film archives, public institutions and rights holders about developing a plan and workflow for identifying, rescuing, scanning and making...
The non-profit organization, headquartered in Stockholm, will work with film libraries, archives, rights holders, academics, film festivals and other institutions. It is modelled on Martin Scorsese’s Film Foundation and the American Genre Film Archive (Agfa) in the U.S.
Among the first projects of the Egff will be an academic study of historic female genre film makers in Europe and raising funds for a 4K film scanner set-up dedicated to digitizing and restoring genre films and related material that is languishing in archives. The Egff will also be arranging symposiums, workshops and film screenings.
In its next phase the Egff will begin consultations with European film archives, public institutions and rights holders about developing a plan and workflow for identifying, rescuing, scanning and making...
- 5/24/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
If this movie serves any purpose it should be to warn guys that are pining for their fed-up girlfriends that mail-order brides aren’t the answer. Or maybe there’s another point to this movie if there’s a point at all. It’s enough to say that there is a good story here, but that’s kind of where the ‘good’ portion ends since after that it becomes more of an exercise in what a beginning film student might churn out if given the chance. When Andy’s girlfriend Shannon leaves him due to various reasons, most of which appear to be Andy’s friend, Chris,
Movie Review: The Doll...
Movie Review: The Doll...
- 3/7/2022
- by Tom Foster
- TVovermind.com
Kimmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning Of Empathy among Rogers Audience Award winners.
Hot Docs 2021 top brass on Monday (May 10) announced audience and competition winners as well as prize recipients in Hot Docs Forum, where Cécile Embleton and Alys Tomlinson were among those selected for their UK project Mother Vera.
In the Rogers Audience Award, five Canadian filmmakers each received a cash prize of $10,000 Cad. They are: Fanny: The Right To Rock (dir. Bobbi Jo Hart ); Kimmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning Of Empathy; Someone Like Me: Still Max (dir. Katherine Knight); and Hell Or Clean Water (dir. Cody Westman).
In the first look pitch prizes at Hot Docs Forum,...
Hot Docs 2021 top brass on Monday (May 10) announced audience and competition winners as well as prize recipients in Hot Docs Forum, where Cécile Embleton and Alys Tomlinson were among those selected for their UK project Mother Vera.
In the Rogers Audience Award, five Canadian filmmakers each received a cash prize of $10,000 Cad. They are: Fanny: The Right To Rock (dir. Bobbi Jo Hart ); Kimmapiiyipitssini: The Meaning Of Empathy; Someone Like Me: Still Max (dir. Katherine Knight); and Hell Or Clean Water (dir. Cody Westman).
In the first look pitch prizes at Hot Docs Forum,...
- 5/10/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Svetlana Rodina and Laurent Stoop’s “Ostrov — Lost Island” and Emanuel Licha’s “Zo Reken” took the top Hot Docs jury awards at a special online ceremony webcast from Toronto Friday night.
Eleven awards and $67,000 Cad in cash and prizes were presented to emerging and established Canadian and international filmmakers.
Best International Feature Documentary Award-winner “Ostrov — Lost Island” chronicles a fishing community in the Caspian Sea, where elders cling to tradition and youth look to a new kind of future. The award comes with a $10,000 Cad cash prize courtesy of the Panicaro Foundation.
In its statement, the international feature jury — MTV Networks executive producer Sheila Nevins, filmmaker Kazuhiro Soda, and producer Toni Kama — called the film “a truly powerful cinematic experience which shows the everyday reality of people in Russia.”
With this award, “Ostrov” now qualifies for consideration in the Best Documentary Feature category of the Academy Awards without the standard theatrical run,...
Eleven awards and $67,000 Cad in cash and prizes were presented to emerging and established Canadian and international filmmakers.
Best International Feature Documentary Award-winner “Ostrov — Lost Island” chronicles a fishing community in the Caspian Sea, where elders cling to tradition and youth look to a new kind of future. The award comes with a $10,000 Cad cash prize courtesy of the Panicaro Foundation.
In its statement, the international feature jury — MTV Networks executive producer Sheila Nevins, filmmaker Kazuhiro Soda, and producer Toni Kama — called the film “a truly powerful cinematic experience which shows the everyday reality of people in Russia.”
With this award, “Ostrov” now qualifies for consideration in the Best Documentary Feature category of the Academy Awards without the standard theatrical run,...
- 5/7/2021
- by Jennie Punter
- Variety Film + TV
Asil is going to get married. At least, that's the idea. A man saw her in her father's photography studio and was so taken with her that he asked if she could marry his son. At least, that's the story. As Elahe Esmaili’s documentary unfolds - not always in linear order - stories become more and more complicated, with nothing quite what it seemed. When Asil asserts that she's very mature for her age, one begins to think that - comparatively - she may be right, but she is still only 15.
The Doll is billed as a film about child marriage but although it has a lot to say on that subject, no such union actually takes place. What is being proposed, in the first instance, is an engagement. This makes it more socially acceptable for Asil and her beau to spend time together, and it also means that if,...
The Doll is billed as a film about child marriage but although it has a lot to say on that subject, no such union actually takes place. What is being proposed, in the first instance, is an engagement. This makes it more socially acceptable for Asil and her beau to spend time together, and it also means that if,...
- 4/25/2021
- by Jennie Kermode
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
You may not realize it, but 20 years ago, us mortals were delivered a gift from the higher powers of comedy. I’m referring to Larry David’s hilarious and groundbreaking program, “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” which premiered on HBO precisely two decades ago on October 15, 2000. To help celebrate the prettaaay, prettaaay good run that the show has had, we at Gold Derby are ranking the 20 best episodes of the Emmy-winning show for its 20th anniversary. Scroll through our photo gallery and see where your favorite episode is ranked.
SEEJeff Garlin Interview: ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’
The show centers on David, playing a somewhat fictionalized version of himself, and the often inane and neurotic interactions he has with with those that are closest to him. Among the people in this orbit are his much-more-grounded wife Cheryl (Cheryl Hines), his manager/best friend Jeff Greene (Jeff Garlin) and Jeff’s wife, Susie Greene (Susie Essman...
SEEJeff Garlin Interview: ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’
The show centers on David, playing a somewhat fictionalized version of himself, and the often inane and neurotic interactions he has with with those that are closest to him. Among the people in this orbit are his much-more-grounded wife Cheryl (Cheryl Hines), his manager/best friend Jeff Greene (Jeff Garlin) and Jeff’s wife, Susie Greene (Susie Essman...
- 10/15/2020
- by Charles Bright
- Gold Derby
You may not realize it, but 20 years ago, us mortals were delivered a gift from the higher powers of comedy. I’m referring to Larry David’s hilarious and groundbreaking program, “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” which premiered on HBO precisely two decades ago on October 15, 2000. To help celebrate the prettaaay, prettaaay good run that the show has had, we at Gold Derby are ranking the 20 best episodes of the Emmy-winning show for its 20th anniversary. Scroll through our photo gallery and see where your favorite episode is ranked.
The show centers on David, playing a somewhat fictionalized version of himself, and the often inane and neurotic interactions he has with with those that are closest to him. Among the people in this orbit are his much-more-grounded wife Cheryl (Cheryl Hines), his manager/best friend Jeff Greene (Jeff Garlin) and Jeff’s wife, Susie Greene (Susie Essman), who is always at least...
The show centers on David, playing a somewhat fictionalized version of himself, and the often inane and neurotic interactions he has with with those that are closest to him. Among the people in this orbit are his much-more-grounded wife Cheryl (Cheryl Hines), his manager/best friend Jeff Greene (Jeff Garlin) and Jeff’s wife, Susie Greene (Susie Essman), who is always at least...
- 10/12/2020
- by Charles Bright, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
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