There are certain expectations when dealing with a film titled 'Hellraiser'. For example, one would expect that hell will be involved, and, further, that someone or something will be raising that hell. In this respect, Clive Barker's horror legacy does not disappoint. However, now that Hellraiser has permeated popular culture, we have higher expectations to be met. We expect the makings of a classic, the iconic Pinhead instilling exquisite terror. In short, we expect a nightmare on celluloid. The film does not disappoint. It is a masterfully executed production, with a chilling story, great performances, and amazing special effects.(read more...)

You know you’re in trouble when the film you’re reviewing opens with a song that’s heavily reminiscent of the “Batman” theme (campy 1966 version). Still, other horror films have overcome a ridiculous pop tune – The Blob beat Burt Bacharach, didn’t it? Unfortunately, Antonio Margheriti’s Naked You Die resembles its theme song in more than a couple ways. It is a fairly disposable, imitative affair, packed with more goofy pep than seems appropriate for a “killer among us” film.(read more...)

To stab and to burn from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in psychosis and in nightmare, to hate and to objectify, from this day forward, when death tears us apart… Marital bliss, Hatchet for the Honeymoon is not.

A funky combination of Psycho and American Psycho, Mario Bava’s Hatchet for the Honeymoon is further evidence of the legendary director’s brilliance. Deviating noticeably from the giallo conventions he helped establish, and pushing his own aesthetic limits by bending old and shaping new genres, Hatchet held a special place in Bava’s heart since his marriage, like the protagonists’, was falling apart during production.(read more...)

Sporting one of my favorite movie titles ever, Mario Bava's Blood and Black Lace is a prime example of the Italian horror genre known as giallo. Gialli (the plural form of the word) are basically stylized mystery/horror films containing occasional scenes of intense violence. They are often marked by unnatural yet strangely intriguing lighting techniques. Naturally, gialli tend to become efforts in creating a moving atmosphere. Trying to uncover a secret can only take a film so far, but offering stimulating color use and set design along the way can provide a good boost, depending on what you look for in a film. Blood and Black Lace is light on story but rich in style.(read more...)