Meet The Fiery Horror Of “The Wicker Man!”

As The Beatles once said: “number nine, number nine, number nine…”

On this 9th day of Shocktober 2016, let’s celebrate the Halloween season with a horrific story of sacrifice – “Wicker Man” style!

“Do sit down, Sergeant. Shocks are so much better absorbed with the knees bent.”

The Wicker Man!

One of the most unique horror films of the 1970’s came from England, where acclaimed Writer Anthony Shaffer unveiled the story of a young girl’s disappearance, and one Detective’s efforts to find her…

“FLESH TO TOUCH! FLESH TO BURN! DON’T KEEP THE WICKER MAN WAITING!”

There are times when words simply cannot describe the “power of strange” – this cult classic is simply one of the strangest films ever made – and spawned possibly the worst remake of all time!

First, here is the trailer for the original:

Police Sergeant Howie, played by Edward Woodward, is called to an island village in search of a missing girl whom the locals claim never existed. While conducting his investigation, he uncovers so much more…

Christopher Lee in Robin HardyÕs THE WICKER MAN (1973). Courtesy: Rialto Pictures/ Studiocanal

Veteran horror film Actor Christopher Lee is Lord Summerisle, and as always, Lee is in top form as the leader of this stage island…

Britt Ekland was immediately launched into movie infamy as Willow…a “free spirit” who performs one of the strangest and yes, “most naked” dances in movie history…

Britt Or No Britt?

While the Actress achieved notoriety for the naked dance, it was revealed later that the nude scene was a body double…but the dancing is all her…according to IMDB, “a body double was secretly used for the naked rear shots of Willow dancing. The scenes were filmed after Britt Ekland had left the set. The body double was used because Ekland would only agree to topless shots of her body. After shooting was over, not only was Ekland furious to learn she had been doubled in some shots but that she was also a few weeks pregnant in that scene. Director Robin Hardy says it was Ekland herself who did not want her bottom to be filmed, as she did not like it.”

“The Wicker Man” is widely regarded as one of the best horror films ever made. Not bad for a film that was disowned by its makers on release. There is a great blu-ray release that offers a “Director’s Cut” of the film along with a ton of great extras!

Sergeant Howie: Your lordship seems strangely… unconcerned.
Lord Summerisle: Well I’m confident your suspicions are wrong, Sergeant. We don’t commit murder here. We’re a deeply religious people.
Sergeant Howie: Religious? With ruined churches, no ministers, no priests… and children dancing naked!
Lord Summerisle: They do love their divinity lessons.
Sergeant Howie: [outraged] But they are… a-are NAKED!
Lord Summerisle: Naturally! It’s much too dangerous to jump through fire with their clothes on!

The Movie’s Shocking Finale!

The film builds tension and horror throughout, until the fiery shock ending is revealed…bravo “Wicker Man!”

During this “Shocktober” season, let’s celebrate this incredible bizarre and creepy thriller – and remember:

Do sit down, Sergeant. Shocks are so much better absorbed with the knees bent.

Bravo to “The Wicker Man” – and if you are in the mood for more classic horror, then nothing beats this:

Yes, the film that made Frank Sinatra divorce Mia Farrow! Check out the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/08/shocktober-day-8-satans-spawn-rosemarys-baby-shocks-mia-farrows-marriage/

It’s been a full “Shocktober 2016” already, and if you missed any, head to my home page to find all of them, like this subtle shocker:

Yes, one of the cinema’s most shocking films – with very little blood! Read the behind-the-scenes stories of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

There are more subtle films as well, still effective horror films, like this one:

Legendary Actor George C. Scott brings gravitas to this great horror film, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

Enjoy your Shocktober!

Christopher Lee in Robin HardyÕs THE WICKER MAN (1973). Courtesy: Rialto Pictures/ Studiocanal

Sasha Grey Gets “Smashed!”

Day #10 of “Shocktober 2016” features my friend Sasha Grey – who stars in a great piece of independent horror! Time to get bloody with the 2009 film “Smash Cut!”

Sasha Grey stars alongside David Hess, best known for this role in the iconic 70’s shocker “The Last House On The Left”.

In “Smash Cut”, Hess stars as a frustrated Director, with Sasha Grey as his unknowing new “star” – check out the trailer:

Yes, that was legendary “Blood Feast” Director Herschell Gordon Lewis narrating the trailer – and he also appears in the film – this legendary filmmaker died recently…read about his amazing “Blood Feast” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/26/rip-to-blood-feast-maestro-herschell-gordon-lewis-the-godfather-of-gore/

Actor David Hess is best known for the early 70’s shocker “The Last House On The Left” – and throughout his career, he has shown a great screen presence:

Hess also delivered a dynamite performance in a forgotten slice of 70’s sexploitation from Europe:

Read more about this classic thriller here:

Thumbs Up! Knives Out! Cult Classic “Hitchhiking” Exploitation!

Sasha also does a great job in the film, showing a quirky side, as well as an ability to exude danger:

Sasha is great in the film, which is a fun independent horror film – perfect for Shocktober!

I had the chance to work with Sasha in Australia, when she surfed iconic Bondi Beach – check it out here!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/01/03/sasha-grey-surfs-sasha-steps-in-gum-surfs-up-at-bondi-beach-australia/

if you are in the mood for more classic horror, then nothing beats this:

Yes, the film that made Frank Sinatra divorce Mia Farrow! Check out the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/08/shocktober-day-8-satans-spawn-rosemarys-baby-shocks-mia-farrows-marriage/

It’s been a full “Shocktober 2016” already, and if you missed any, head to my home page to find all of them, like this subtle shocker:

Yes, one of the cinema’s most shocking films – with very little blood! Read the behind-the-scenes stories of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

There are more subtle films as well, still effective horror films, like this one:

Legendary Actor George C. Scott brings gravitas to this great horror film, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

Let me know what you think of day #10 of “Shocktober” – with Sasha Grey!

Author Sasha Grey Is Back!

Bravo to my friend Sasha on the publication on her new book, THE JANUS CHAMBER, which is being released now!

Sasha’s LA Book Signing!

Sasha is signing copies of her new novel on October 11, so make sure you get a copy and have it autographed!

As the publisher announces, “Grey has set the bar with her narrative style and no holds-barred lust-filled pages.”

“The Janus Chamber” is a sequel to Sasha’s best-selling debut novel “The Juliette Society”. Here is how the book is described:

“A few years have passed since Catherine’s time in the The Juliette Society, but things haven’t been going the way she planned. Her life with her fiancé Jack has become predictable and boring, especially in the bedroom. Now working as a journalist, she struggles to find inspiration in her work or at home-until she starts writing about the death of a publicly beloved model, Inana Luna, whose experiences reflect Catherine’s own blossoming sexuality and independence. What started as a routine story quickly becomes Catherine’s obsession, as she follows the tale of a woman whose tracks take her down a road with too many familiar facets: a fascination with kink, lustful men, and some very sexy intrigue. Like the Roman god Janus, Catherine is simultaneously looking to the past and the future. Can her experiences with The Juliette Society, along with Inana’s diary, help her figure out what she really wants in life, love, and sex? Or will the story drag her back down into a tantalizing world from which she might not be able to escape a second time?”

If you haven’t read her first bestseller, here is a closer look at that book!

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/29/sasha-grey-conquers-the-world-best-selling-juliette-society-scores-worldwide/

Congratulations to Sasha on the release of her new work, make sure to support it!

And don’t forget that it’s “Shocktober 2016”, so you need to check out Sasha’s great horror film as well:

See more on her terrific horror movie here:

horror post

Sasha also shared a terrific work of art with her fans – a poetic commentary called “Greyscale”:

See this haunting video here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/20/sasha-grey-greyscale-a-beautiful-poetic-commentary-on-art/

I was lucky enough to travel with Sasha to Australia for some great G4 TV specials – you remember, when she got “photo bombed” by two sharks?

Here is that video of Sasha inside a tank with two sharks!

Sasha Grey’s Shark Dive! Sasha’s Shark Photo Bomb! Sasha’s Extreme Shark Diving Adventure!

While she was in Australia, we also went to the legendary Bondi Beach, where Sasha learned to surf:

Oh, I might have forgotten to tell her how cold the water was – here is a great video that shows her reaction:

See more of this incredible adventure here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/01/03/sasha-grey-surfs-sasha-steps-in-gum-surfs-up-at-bondi-beach-australia/

Finally, Sasha is also part of “Shocktober 2016”, with her dark comic horror film “Smash Cut!”

Check out the film’s great trailer right here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/10/shocktober-day-10-smashes-sasha-grey-the-darkly-comic-horror-of-smash-cut/

Bravo to Sasha on her new book release, and don’t forget to stop by and get one signed!

“Tear him up!”

And with that command, Shocktober 2016 introduces you to “Willard”, who turns his band of ravenous rats on all of his enemies!

Even more shocking, the movie’s sequel “Ben” had a theme song sung by Michael Jackson, that was a love song to a rat – and was Oscar-nominated!

Time For The Wacky Animal Vengeance Horror Of “Willard!”

Let’s celebrate Halloween 2016 by looking at one of the great cult horror film of the early 70’s.

This 1971 film starred Bruce Davison and Ernest Borgnine, and was a surprise hit! Check out the classic trailer:

“Willard” was based on the novel “The Ratman’s Notebooks”, and was a surprise box office hit in 1971! A young Bruce Davison stars as Willard, a shy boy who befriends a rat named Ben…

Ernest Borgnine Bets Against “Ben!”

Ernest Borgnine co-stars in “Willard”, and as you can see, it doesn’t end well for him. According to Borgnine’s autobiography, they offered the legendary character Actor a choice of a higher salary or a percentage of the box office. Borgnine chose to take the money right away – probably costing him plenty, because the movie was a surprise hit!

Michael Jackson’s Love Song To A Rat!

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is that the main rat, Ben, was the star of a sequel the very next year called “Ben” – and the theme song is sung by a young Michael Jackson…and it was nominated for best original song of 1972!

That’s right – “Ben” was oscar-nominated! And why not? After all, it’s not every movie that offers a loving tribute to a killer rat!

“Ben, the two of us need look no more
We both found what we were looking for
With a friend to call my own
I’ll never be alone
And you my friend will see
You’ve got a friend in me
(You’ve got a friend in me)”

Yes, you’ve got a friend in “Ben!”

Michael Jackson At The Oscars!

Here is a clip of Michael Jackson performing the song on the 1973 Academy Awards show – he is introduced by legendary Actor Charlton Heston!

If you need to know, “Ben” lost the best original song Oscar to “The Morning After” from “The Poseidon Adventure!”

Thanks to Shout Factory, you will soon be able to enjoy both cult classics “Willard” and “Ben”, which are getting a much-deserved blu-ray release – so bite down on these campy cult classics, which led to a avalanche of “killer animal” films in the 1970’s!

Killer “Frogs!”

It is simply one of the all-time greatest movie posters – for a campy cult 70’s horror film called “Frogs”….one of a number of campy animal horror films that followed “Willard” – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/24/wackiest-halloween-horror-frogs-vincent-price-helldrivers-old-ladies/

And if you want your killer animals more modern, I’ve got you covered:

“Zombeavers” Are Here!

Yes, “zombie beavers” terrorize teenagers in various stages of undress! This new movie is cap fun! Check out the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/02/18/zombeavers-the-latest-in-killer-animal-movies-frogs-ants-and-more-campy-horror/

What a great way to celebrate Shocktober 2016! If you need more proof, I have a few “PIECES” of information to share:

Yes, this classic 80’s shocker will fill your Shocktober nicely – see the original shocking trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/07/shocktober-day-7-pieces-of-cult-80s-bloody-halloween-2016-horror/

And guess who’s back – for the 31st time – to celebrate Shocktober?

“Oh No, There Goes Tokyo – Go Go Godzilla!”

Yes, the latest “Godzilla” film from Japan is here – check out the terrific “Godzilla Resurgence” trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/11/shocktober-day-11-godzilla-is-back-with-a-resurgence-new-monster-go-go-godzilla/

If you like your Halloween full of great scares, check this out:

This great “haunted house” film stars the iconic George C. Scott – you can see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

And recently, America has been “spooked” by the appearance of real evil clowns:

Wow! There are a few great Halloween “evil clown” films to check out, and you can see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

Let me know what you think of the “Ben” love song – and if you enjoy “Shocktober” day 12!

Shocktober 2016 is off to a great start!

Thanks everyone for reading my first ten posts of the month – it’s Halloween season, and every day I am sharing another “Shocktober” classic!

Day #1 got off to a rousing start with “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” – you can read some great trivia about this seminal film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

For day #2, I offered up the legendary Actor George C. scott is a terrific haunted house movie:

See the classic spooky trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

I kept it on the classics the first few days, which leads to America’s favorite “Scream Queen!”

Jaime Lee Curtis starred in what many feel is the greatest “Halloween” movie ever – because, well it is called “Halloween!”

I offered up some fun trivia on the film, which you can see here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/03/shocktober-day-3-screams-halloween-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis/

Eli Roth paid homage to one of the world’s most shocking films on day #4 – the “under-stated” horror classic:

Read about Roth’s terrific “The Green Inferno” AND the court case brought against the makers of “Cannibal Holocaust” all right here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/04/shocktober-day-4-goes-cannibalistic-enter-the-green-inferno-ei-roths-cannibal-holocaust-homage/

I needed a break from “shocking” – so I went with a different kind of Halloween thrill:

Yes, there are some great Halloween movies that also featured naked Vampires! See all you need to see right here!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/05/shocktober-day-5-gets-bloody-and-naked-lust-for-a-vampire-erotic-horror-trilogy/

This Halloween season, a real life creepiness is underway – real creepy clown sightings!

I look at this troubling phenomenon – as well as the greatest clown horror films around – right here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

Of course, some movies are “great” films, but boy, are they wildly entertaining!

“Pieces” is certainly not a perfect film, but the blu-ray includes a bonus documentary about New York’s notorious 42nd street of the 70’s – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/07/shocktober-day-7-pieces-of-cult-80s-bloody-halloween-2016-horror/

Back to some classic horror films – one of the best is this one:

“Rosemary’s Baby” is also known as the movie Frank Sinatra divorced Mia Farrow over! Find out why here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/08/shocktober-day-8-satans-spawn-rosemarys-baby-shocks-mia-farrows-marriage/

For day #9 of Shocktober, I decided to highlight one of the most iconic – and bizarre – horror films from the early 70’s:

Christopher Lee in Robin HardyÕs THE WICKER MAN (1973). Courtesy: Rialto Pictures/ Studiocanal

Yes, Christopher Lee has a really big “Wicker Man” behind him – and click on my story to find out why:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/09/shocktober-day-9-the-burning-horror-of-the-wicker-man/

Finally, on day ten I celebrated my friend Sasha Grey’s bloody horror thriller:

“You see, Jason was my son, and today is his birthday…”

Meet Jason Voorhees!

The 13th day of Shocktober 2016 celebrates by taking you to Camp Crystal Lake, where a young of young people, including the great Kevin Bacon, are about to have a terrifying night!

You see, Jason has decided to crash their party in the most horrorifc way! Time to celebrate the classic 80’s slasher, “Friday The 13th!”

IMDB describes the plot this way:

“One summer at Camp Crystal Lake, a group of young counselors begin to get ready to lead campers. Unfortunately for the former, someone isn’t happy about what’s going on in the camp and enjoys playing kill the counselor. As bodies fall to the ground in the camp, no one is safe.”

Ain’t that the truth! Here is the original trailer:

This horror classic has spawned NINE SEQUELS – and while the quality may be variable, this series has connected with an entire generation of horror fans!

Director Sean S. Cunningham has said that the type of actors that he sought for the film were “good-looking kids who you might see in a Pepsi commercial.” And that is certainly what he got!

The movie was filmed at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco in New Jersey. The camp is still in operation, and it has a wall of Friday the 13th memorabilia – a mini-movie museum!

If you want to go back a decade, you could have fun “gnawing” on one classic horror as well:

Yes, “Ben” is “Willard”‘s pet rat, and he likes to eat people! See the classic cult horror film trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/willard-shocktober-day-12-smells-a-rat-ben-gnaws-at-your-horror-bone/

If Halloween isn’t creepy enough in movie theaters, don’t forget that this is the year that “real ” clowns are creeping people out:

Don’t worry, I still have plenty of evil movie clowns to share as well, see Stephen King’s most famous killer clown, Pennywise, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

Celebrate this 13th day of “Shocktober” with some classic horror!

Great Looking Burger – NOT! Impossible? Yes, It Is!

Everyone is sending me this story: the new “meatless” burger that oozes “blood” and tastes like a burger – but it’s all from plants!

Here is the story from ABC7 Los Angeles:

“It’s a very hard thing to do, but it’s doable,” said Patrick Brown of Impossible Foods.

The burger is the brainchild of former Stanford professor Patrick Brown. He created Impossible Foods, which recently showed off the fruits of their labor.

“We didn’t just slap together a bunch of bits and pieces from plants and call it a burger. We did the deep research to understand what makes a burger so delicious,” said Brown.

Inside Impossible Foods’ test kitchen, they mix together carefully chosen ingredients to make the “meat” patty. They picked apart a beef burger, studying everything from the texture, to the smell, even how it cooks, to get it just right.

So How Do they Make It “Bloody?”

According to ABC7, the secret ingredient to making it red is heme. The blood-like liquid made from a soybean gene injected into yeast. That yeast is fermented into heme, allowing the patty to look, and cook, like a beef burger.

You can see the rest of the story here:

http://abc7.com/food/meatless-burger-grown-in-silicon-valley-lab-bleeds-like-a-real-burger/1553644/

If this makes you hungry – and thirsty as well, I have just the thing for you:

Yes, a burger that comes filled with a shot of bourbon! See the recipe here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/27/unbelievable-bourbon-bacon-bagel-burgers-alcohol-and-wacky-food-drink-up-and-bite-down/

I can’t wait to try my “Impossible” burger!

PUT THE BLOODY KNIFE DOWN. Time To Talk About Day #14 Of “Shocktober!”

It’s the fourteenth day of “Shocktober”, and time to slice and dice a new horror genre for you!

If you don’t know about the classic Italian “giallo” genre of film shockers, you are missing some of the most suspenseful thrillers ever committed to bloody celluloid!

“Giallos” are Italy’s version of “pulp fiction” – lurid thrillers with plenty of sex and violence – but they are also some of the best mystery films ever made!

Oh, they also have some of the wildest titles of all time: like “A Lizard In A Woman’s Skin” for one, and what about this subtle title?

The genre of Italian “giallo” film has resulted in some cinematic classics such as “Suspiria” and “Four Flies On Dead Velvet” – and I will share more about those in a moment….but first, time to explore a few more classics of the genre – starting with this classic title:

“Your Vice Is A Locked Room And Only I Have The Key!”

This cult classic is loosely based on Edgar Allan Poe’s classic tale “The Black Cat”, and is from director Sergio Martino – who also made the classic thriller “Torso”!

This is a classic cult film that you can read more about here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/06/psycho-go-go-dancers-delinquent-schoolgirls-and-candy-snatchers-more-70s-grindhouse/

But now, back to “Your Vice Is A Locked Room!”

First, here is an international trailer, but don’t worry: it’s all scenes and images from the film with a classic 70’s giallo soundtrack!

Well, that poster doesn’t leave much to the imagination, does it?

Here’s a brief synopsis: Oliviero is an abrasive drunk who amuses himself by holding drunken orgies at his grand country manor – and no surprise, his wife, played by Actress Anita Strindberg, doesn’t like it much!

Soon, a series of murders rocks Oliviero’s sordid world….and here’s a great fact thanks to IMDB: the title is a reference to Sergio Martino’s earlier giallo “”The Strange Vice of Mrs. Wardh”, in which the same phrase appears in a mysterious note apparently sent by a killer!

So, are you getting an idea of just how entertaining and twisted this genre is? And believe me when I tell you – they are very entertaining!

Perhaps the most well-known Giallo Director is the legendary Dario Argento:

Argento’s masterpiece is “Suspiria” starring Jessica Harper, best known for her starring role in Brian DePalma’s “Phantom Of The Paradise”…but Argeno also made such great thriller as “Tenebrae”-

You can read all about his great movies by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/01/29/dario-argentos-bloody-masterpiece-tenebrae-cult-giallo-goes-blu/

Some very well known movie stars appeared in these films – perhaps none more beautiful than “Bond Girl” Claudine Auger:

Aside from starring alongside Sean Connery in “Thunderbolt”, she starred in a classic “giallo” as well…see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/18/sexiest-bond-girl-ever-sex-kitten-claudine-auger-james-bond-and-giallo-horror/

One of the genre’s most controversial films was this classic – with an equally classic title:

“A Lizard In A Woman’s Skin” ended up in court! Click here to find out why the Director almost ended up in prison!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/15/a-lizard-in-a-womans-skin-halloweens-controversial-giallo-on-trial-slithering-italian-sex-shockers/

As you can see, it’s a movie category with plenty of controversy…another great Director was Lucio Fulci, and yes, he had some wacky film titles too!

Yes, the film “Don’t Torture A Duckling” is a classic Giallo shocker! Read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/09/halloween-giallo-masters-agentos-animal-trilogy-fulcis-tortured-ducklings-italian-pulp-fiction/

And finally, here is a title that doesn’t beat around the bush:

“Strip Nude For Your Killer” may sound like it’s pandering, and – well, it is! But it’s still a great mystery thriller, and you can read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/07/09/time-to-strip-nude-four-flies-and-baba-yaga-to-you-yes-its-classic-italian-giallo/

Let me know which of these classic “Giallos” you’ve watched on this 14th day of “Shocktober!”

What a great way to celebrate Shocktober 2016! If you need more proof, I have a few “PIECES” of information to share:

Yes, this classic 80’s shocker will fill your Shocktober nicely – see the original shocking trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/07/shocktober-day-7-pieces-of-cult-80s-bloody-halloween-2016-horror/

And guess who’s back – for the 31st time – to celebrate Shocktober?

“Oh No, There Goes Tokyo – Go Go Godzilla!”

Yes, the latest “Godzilla” film from Japan is here – check out the terrific “Godzilla Resurgence” trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/11/shocktober-day-11-godzilla-is-back-with-a-resurgence-new-monster-go-go-godzilla/

If you like your Halloween full of great scares, check this out:

This great “haunted house” film stars the iconic George C. Scott – you can see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

And recently, America has been “spooked” by the appearance of real evil clowns:

Wow! There are a few great Halloween “evil clown” films to check out, and you can see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

Finally, I have a classic member of the “horror club” to introduce you to:

Meet Jason!

Yes, the “Friday the 13th” films are always worth watching over Halloween – here is some great trivia about the film:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/13/friday-the-13th-shocktober-day-13-goes-to-bloody-crystal-lake-friday-the-13th-monster-jason-voorhees/

Enjoy your Halloween!

Are You In A “Sad Clown” Movie Mood?

No need on this 15th day of “Shocktober 2016” – I’ve got some of the most surreal yet entertaining horror films to share!

Time To Be “Fascianted” By Director Jean Rollin!

If you’ve never heard of French Director Jean Rollin, you have missed out on some very atmospheric, haunting, nudity and blood-filled – yet somewhat slow-moving – European art-film horror!

Meet Jean Rollin!

Jean Rollin was a French film director, actor, and novelist – best known for his films in the “fantastique” genre, as they say in France. He specialized in atmospheric horror of the 70’s – when relaxed censorship rules in cinema allowed Directors to push the envelope!

Jean Rollin’s are very interesting to watch: moody, atmospheric and did I mention that his films were filled with BLOOD!

Jean Rollin’s Cult “Artsploitation” Is “Redeemed”!

Thanks to the terrific “Redemption” series of releases – from the “Redemption Films” group – these movies are now available again – and gives each film a newly remastered look, plus tons of extras like documentaries, audio commentaries and trailers – a terrific job.

Requiem For A Vampire

Here is an early classic: on the run from a reform school, two young women commit crimes dressed as clowns.

Yes, they commit crimes dressed as clowns. How can you argue with that? Here is the clown-filled trailer:

Of course, the two “fleeing female clowns” seek refuge in a haunted castle, and end up trapped with no escape!

Because, as happens too often, this haunted castle is ruled by a hoard of sexy, blood-crazed vampires and their leader, an evil immortal creature who is the last of his kind.

Another of Rollins films is this classic:

Fascination!

Considered by many to be his masterpiece, “FASCINATION” follows a swaggering thief who hides out in a lavish chateau, holding the female occupants at gunpoint.

You can sense a trend here: Rollin’s films usually involve women who are kidnapped or held against their will – and who wreck revenge against their abductors – usually men. And they always end up in a deserted castle.

Women With A Thirst For Blood!

When night falls, the “Fascination” captor realizes that these two maids are not only deadlier than he imagined, but are gatekeepers to a ring of women with a thirst for blood.

Once again, the film is filled with hynotic imagery like this:

And what I think is his most dynamic image ever captured in one of his films – the blonde on the bridge with the sickle…

This action sequence, while fairly slow moving – it is, as you know, Jean Rollin – this sequence is beautifully done and hypnotic…

Here is part of the sequence:

You must go out and buy this blu-ray to see the entire sequence, the movie as a whole, and all of the terrific extras! Then, you have to see THIS:

The Living Dead Girl

This is one of his last films. Here is the trailer:

“The Living Dead Girl” is a melancholy, moody bloodfest – it is certainly Rollin’s bloodiest film…

Director Jean Rollin died in 2010, but all of these releases have extensive material with him, as he actively participated in these great remasters. He introduces some of the films, takes part in commentaries, and discusses his work with passion and pride.

You can read about all of his films by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/04/23/arty-blood-arty-nudity-classic-artsploitation-the-films-of-jean-rollin/

So bravo to Jean Rollin for giving us incredible visuals like the ones below – AND a great way to celebrate “Shocktober 2016!”

If you want to see some of the other films I’ve celebrated this month, you can see the first ten days of “Shocktober 2016” – which includes creepy clowns like these:

Check out the clowns, chainsaws, scream queens and more by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

“Fascination” was a classic French horror film, but the Italians had their slasher classics as well:

You can see some of the greatest Italian sex shockers by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/14/shocktober-day-14-is-a-locked-room-of-slashing-giallo/

Enjoy your Halloween!

Time to celebrate day #16 of “Shocktober 2016” – a monthlong look at 31 of the best horror films – so why not take a ride with THIS GUY?

Join Scream Queen Jamie Lee Curtis On The “Terror Train!”

“Terror Train” is a terrific, vicious slasher film from 1980, with some good scares and lots of blood…much of it on legendary Scream Queen Jamie Lee Curtis!

After the phenomenal success of “Halloween” in 1978, Curtis found herself starring in a number of slasher films, and quickly earned the title of reigning “Scream Queen”! Some films weren’t that good, but this one delivered the scares!

The plot of “Terror Train” is brilliant in its simplicity: A masked killer seeks revenge against six college kids who were responsible for a prank gone wrong three years earlier – and lucky for the killer – the kids are throwing a large New Year’s Eve costume party aboard a moving train!

This film is helped greatly by a truly creepy looking killer, and an ongoing sense of dread throughout. Check out the trailer:

According to the great movie website IMDB, Jamie Lee Curtis once said of her character in this film:

“There are certain things a heroine in a thriller has to be. She has to be vulnerable, so that the audience identifies with her and is rooting for her. But she also has to have an enormous inner strength to overcome the evil, or terror, that is pursuing her. I play the same kind of character as I did in other films. But Alana – the girl I play – is stronger and more defined”.

Bravo to Jamie Lee Curtis for finding more depth of character, even in straightforward horror films!

And Curtis was profiled one other time in my Shocktober 2016 countdown:

Yes, Jaime Lee’s first movie was the night HE came home! See how she turned “Halloween” into a classic here – and see all of my first ten films of Shocktober:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

I love the Halloween season – so many great horror films to enjoy – and some unique ones as well:

“Fascination” is just one of French Director Jean Rollin’s unique shockers – check them all out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/15/living-dead-girl-shocktober-day-15-swings-a-bloody-scythe-a-shocking-fascination/

Enjoy your halloween!

Shocktober Goes Nordic!

On our seventeenth day of “Shocktober”, time to head overseas for some incredibly imaginative horror!

If you are a cult film lover, you can’t help but admire when a film maker creates a unique vision – especially on a low low budget.

Here’s a very imaginative horror film that was made for almost nothing!

Check out the creepy trailer for this horror film from Norway – “Thale”:

This Norwegian horror film finds a way to be very imaginative on almost no budget. Here is the plot, courtesy of IMDB:

Norwegian folklore turns out to be real when Leo and Elvis encounter “Thale” in a basement. A regular cleaning job turns into a struggle for survival, while they’re trying to figure out what or who “Thale” is.

10K Horror!

Reports say that “Thale” was shot on a budget of just $10,000! And here is one reason why: Director Aleksander L. Nordaas was also the film’s writer, co-producer, cinematographer, editor, and set designer! He also built the sets and shot most of the film in his father’s basement!

The film’s reviews were mixed, but on the fourth ay of Shocktober, I want to celebrate the ingenuity and creative drive that was behind “Thale”..a real labor of love, and worth supporting for that reason…and for a bonus, here is another great Shocktober treat for you:

Meet “The Troll Hunter!”

This Norwegian film is also based on a fairy tale – the story of the monstrous trolls that live in Norway’s wilderness – and it’s the season to get wild! Check out the trailer:

These films are now available on DVD and blu-ray, so you can check out these two imaginative Nordic horror films in the privacy of your own home – celebrate Shocktober with a tail!

What a great way to celebrate Shocktober 2016! If you need more proof, I have a few “PIECES” of information to share:

Yes, this classic 80’s shocker will fill your Shocktober nicely – see the original shocking trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/07/shocktober-day-7-pieces-of-cult-80s-bloody-halloween-2016-horror/

If you like your Halloween a bit less bloody, but still full of great scares, check this out:

This great “haunted house” film stars the iconic George C. Scott – you can see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

And recently, America has been “spooked” by the appearance of real evil clowns:

Wow! There are a few great Halloween “evil clown” films to check out, and you can see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

In fact, here are the first ten “Shocktober 2016” movies to share, including this iconic horror image:

See all the bloody chainsaws, naked scream queens and clowns, clowns, clowns here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

Enjoy your Halloween – with a tail!

Spend The Night With Count Dracula!

Don’t wait, you can win a night at Vlad’s place! Yes, Dracula’s castle – the real life home to Vlad the Impaler, will have overnight guests this Halloween, the first time since 1948 that anyone has slept in the Transylvanian fortress!

According to the Associated Press:

“The site’s actual name is Bran Castle, and two people will get to sleep there Oct. 31 thanks to a promotion by Airbnb. The guests will be wined and dined, then left alone to lie down in red velvet-trimmed coffins just as Dracula did in the Bram Stoker horror novel that popularized the legend.

The castle is famous for its connection to Vlad the Impaler, a real-life prince who stayed there in the 15th century and had a cruel habit of using stakes to impale his victims. Vlad inspired Stoker’s story of Count Dracula.”

I came across this great contest at the website for the Napa Valley Register newspaper, which really does “cover the world!”

Read the whole story here:

http://napavalleyregister.com/travel/here-s-how-you-can-win-a–night-stay/article_7e8e85eb-4e8f-5a24-9e43-80545c0e0e0a.html

How much fun would it be to see Translyvania from this place:

If it makes you yearn for some good “Dracula” movies, well I have a bit of a sexy twist for you!

Countess Dracula!

Here is an example of a modern take on a classic tale, and all ready of you to view on this 18th day of Shocktober!

Like all vintage Hammer horror, the plot is simple but effective: In medieval Europe aging Countess Elisabeth rules harshly with the help of lover Captain Dobi. Hammer scored big with sex kitten Ingrid Pitt, who was not only a great actress but a great beauty as well!

So an evil Countess – how to make it erotic? Easy! The Countess realizes that washing in the blood of young girls makes her young again!

“Washing In The Blood Of Young Girls” Indeed!

“Erotic horror” was Hammer’s attempt to stay relevant, and “Countess Dracula” and was a big hit that offered up lots of nudity and gore! All of this led to what many consider to be Hammer’s greatest achievement:So enter to spend the night in Dracula’s castle, enjoy some “Countess Dracula”, and see all of my first ten films of Shocktober by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

I love the Halloween season – so many great horror films to enjoy – and some unique ones as well:

“Fascination” is just one of French Director Jean Rollin’s unique shockers – check them all out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/15/living-dead-girl-shocktober-day-15-swings-a-bloody-scythe-a-shocking-fascination/

Enjoy your halloween – and sweet dreams!

Have you ever gone swimming – only to find someone dead coming out of the water? Well, it’s Shocktober, so anything is possible!

Shocktober 2016 Wants To Scare Jessica To Death!”

How can you not love a horror movie with this tagline:

“Something is after Jessica. Something very cold, very wet…and very dead.”

Shocktober day #19 wants to introduce you to an obscure cult chiller from the early 70’s – psychological horror that will unnerve you!

First, check out this trailer:

Here’s an obscure movie worth finding! A recently institutionalized woman has bizarre experiences after moving into a supposedly haunted country farmhouse and fears she may be losing her sanity once again.

“Let’s Scare Jessica To Death” stands as one of the most subtle, yet truly scary films ever made. It just gets under your skin, despite a sensational title that suggests one of those “let’s do something to get her inheritance” contrived plots.

It is a masterful example of believable horror that has all the haunting lyricism needed to keep its motor going and draw the audience into Jessica’s surreal nightmares.

Zohra Lampert’s performance is superb and one of the most realistic portrayals of mental instability we have in the genre. Does it all really happen or is it in Jessica’s mind? In the end, she still doesn’t know and neither do we. Simply put, that is the triumph and beauty of this wonderful thriller.

The Overlook Film Encyclopedia calls Let’s Scare Jessica To Death a “poetic and persuasive film” that “borrows from both the gothic and post-Night of the Living Dead traditions to depict the death of the love generation as a group of dropouts who find rural America less than accommodating.”

Is Jessica going crazy again? Is something in the lake? And is it coming after her? The mystery unfolds in a creepy, psychologically horrific way…

This is a very effective little horror movie – that is more than anything a look into the madness that envelopes a woman and just won’t let go…unless everything happening to her is real…this is a very little-known film, but worth finding!

This movie has such a reputation now that there is an official website celebrating it! Check it out here:

http://www.letsscarejessicatodeath.net/

And how can you not love a movie with a classic movie poster like this one!

Also, a big contest this Halloween season – want to spend Halloween night in Dracula’s castle?

Fill up these caskets, thanks to a great AirBNB contest to stay overnight in Vlad the Impaler’s castle! Read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/18/win-the-chance-to-sleep-in-count-draculas-castle-countess-dracula-bites-on-shocktober-day-18/

What a great way to celebrate Shocktober 2016! If you need more proof, I have a few “PIECES” of information to share:

Yes, this classic 80’s shocker will fill your Shocktober nicely – see the original shocking trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/07/shocktober-day-7-pieces-of-cult-80s-bloody-halloween-2016-horror/

So many unique – and obscure – Halloween films to share with you, like this classic:

Legendary French Director Jean Rollin made a number of eerie psychological horror films, see it here:

“Living Dead Girl!” “Shocktober” Day #15 Swings A Bloody Scythe! A Shocking “Fascination”!

And guess who’s back – for the 31st time – to celebrate Shocktober?

“Oh No, There Goes Tokyo – Go Go Godzilla!”

Yes, the latest “Godzilla” film from Japan is here – check out the terrific “Godzilla Resurgence” trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/11/shocktober-day-11-godzilla-is-back-with-a-resurgence-new-monster-go-go-godzilla/

If you like your Halloween full of great scares, check this out:

This great “haunted house” film stars the iconic George C. Scott – you can see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

And recently, America has been “spooked” by the appearance of real evil clowns:

Wow! There are a few great Halloween “evil clown” films to check out, and you can see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/06/real-shocking-creepy-clowns-killer-klowns-shocktober-day-6-is-it-pennywise-is-torn-from-todays-headlines/

Let me know if you’ve seen “Jessica!”

Time For Another Bloody, Campy, Sexy Halloween Treat!

On this 20th day of Shocktober, how can you NOT love a movie that has this tag line:

“They Charge An Arm And A Leg!”

And a “subtle” poster like this!

Time To Celebrate The Bloody Fun Of “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers!”

Yes, the title should tell you how “tongue in bloody cheek” this film is, but that’s what makes it a classic! First, check out this vintage movie trailer – oh, be warned that it is full of sex, nudity and blood – everything that makes Halloween great!

Here is the film’s plot, courtesy of the great website “DVD Drive-in”:

“On the hunt for runaway Oxnard teenager Samantha, Los Angeles private detective Jack Chandler stumbles across an LAPD investigation into a series of chainsaw serial killings when thinks homicide detective Harrison’s “Cuisinart Queen” suspect – caught “making Chicken McNuggets with a chainsaw” – might be the missing girl!”

“Chicken McNuggets With A Chainsaw”!

First of all, bravo to the modern scream queen Linnea Quigley, who gives a terrific performance in the film! The late 80’s were a delirious time for low-budget filmmaking…from “Re-Animator” to “Chainsaw Hookers”, movies were trying to keep the spirit of the drive-in alive – just bloodier, sexier and with a knowing wink to the audience!

Director Fred Olen Ray had already directed a few movies prior to “HOLLYWOOD CHAINSAW HOOKERS” – but according to DVD Drive-In, “Hookers” was filmed in five days!

Greg Kenner’s “MovieTime” Moment!

DVD Drive-In also reports there is a great “extra” on the blu-ray release: a vintage “MovieTime Hollywood Premiere” (3:53) in which later Oscar-nominated actor Greg Kinnear pays his dues condescendingly covering the film’s premiere interviewing Quigley, Wildsmith, Camp Video’s Jim Goff, Sybil Danning (who is “always interested in a seeing a good documentary”), and cabaret act “Les Stevens and the Lovely Carol”.

As one of the folks who worked at MovieTime in the day, this is a great piece of nostalgia!

Read the entire review on DVD Drive-in’s website here:

http://www.dvddrive-in.com/reviews/e-h/hollywoodchainsawhookersblu.htm

And don’t forget to gas up for some fun this Halloween!

Are you also looking for more great Halloween options starring Scream Queen Linnea Quigley?

Well, America’s reigning Scream Queen also liked to shake it onscreen, as she did in this classic film:

Another great Halloween classic, the campy fun of “Return Of The Living Dead!” See all the naked fun here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/28/scream-queen-linnea-quigley-naked-graveyard-dancing-horror-demons-too/

Also, a big contest this Halloween season – want to spend Halloween night in Dracula’s castle?

Fill up these caskets, thanks to a great AirBNB contest to stay overnight in Vlad the Impaler’s castle! Read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/18/win-the-chance-to-sleep-in-count-draculas-castle-countess-dracula-bites-on-shocktober-day-18/

If you like haunted castles – or creepy haunted ghost films – then here is a great one for you:

See the creepy trailer for “Let’s Scare Jessica To Death” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/19/shocktober-day-19-scares-jessica-to-death-eerie-psychological-horror/

If you just want to remember some of the campiest horror films – then you need to check out this classic by the legendary Vincent Price:

Here is a look at the classic “Dr. Phibes” movies from the early 70’s, and the raucous world of the “Midnight movie” – click here to read all about it:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/10/22/drunken-dr-phibes-horrors-abominable-midnight-madness/

I love Linnea Quigly, and her willingness to go all out for a movie! One this Shoctober 20th, let me know what your favorite Halloween film is!

It’s A Soska Sister “Shocktober!”

As we cut up our way through “Shocktober 2016”, time to slice and dice on day #21 with the amazing Soska Sisters, who have created some great horror films in their young career!

Get ready for “American Mary” – a bloody great new addition to Halloween tor, directed by two killer twins!

These twins have a twisted sense of humor – and are making a mark on horror!

Meet The Bloody Directing Twins!

As the New York Times said: “Lots of siblings make movies. The brothers Coen (“No Country for Old Men”) are Oscar winners. Andy and Lana Wachowski (“Cloud Atlas”) are a prominent brother-sister team. But sister directors? And not just sisters, but identical twins?”

You Mean There Are Horror Directing TWINS?

The answer is: YES! Meet Jen and Sylvia Soska, the identical twins who wrote and directed the horror film “American Mary!”

First, check out this terrific trailer:

American Mary!

The story follows medical student Mary Mason, as she becomes increasingly broke and disenchanted with the surgical world she once admired. The allure of easy money sends Mary into the world of underground surgeries which ends up leaving more marks on her than her so called ‘freakish’ clientele.

OK everyone, do we smell a twisted, scapel-wielding horror film in the making here?

“American Mary” is on demand and home video, and it really delivers the creepy horror you want this month. As their website proudly claims:

“The Soska sisters have always loved film. Since childhood, they were heavily involved in acting. Above all, they had a special place in their twisted little hearts for horror.”

And how can you argue that on this Shocktober 2016?

Speaking of strong women in horror – how about some lusty Vampires?

Sometimes you need to get down and dirty while getting bloody, and these “erotic horror films” did the trick! Read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/05/shocktober-day-5-gets-bloody-and-naked-lust-for-a-vampire-erotic-horror-trilogy/

Of course, some women in horror have a thing for chainsaws:

“Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers” is just one of the great Linnea Quigley films – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/20/shocktober-20th-linnea-quigleys-naked-living-dead-dance-plus-chainsaw-hookers/

These women were powerful protagonists, which horror films need more of – like our iconic scream queen Jamie Lee Curtis:

Never forget that she stood up to Mike Myers in “Halloween”! See more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/03/shocktober-day-3-screams-halloween-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis/

Here’s to great work by these powerful women of horror! If you want to see ten more great Halloween horrors, click on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

Shocktober 2016 Serves Up “The Bed That Eats!”

The 22nd day of “Shocktober 2016” asks you to lie down and relax in this bizarre “Death Bed!”

Yes, it is time to discover the wonder of “Death Bed!” First, let’s see a few choice moments thanks to “Saibot216” on youtube….

It is referred to as the “worst film ever made!” But c’mon, if you’ve see “The Room” or “Birdemic”, you know that’s not possible…and now, thanks to the great home video distributor CultEpics, there is a new blu-ray that gives YOU the chance to decide for yourself!

Let’s look at the extremely intricate plot:

A demonic bed eats anyone who lies in it. Done!

Which leads me to suspect that this young lady has a bad dream ahead…

Yep, I WAS RIGHT!

So, this is a film with a title – and premise – that doesn’t mess around! And thanks to the wonders of blu-ray, you just have to grab onto your remote with both hands and let this film take you on a wild, wild ride!

The Wacky World Of Cult Movies!

One reason movies are so much fun is because you never know when you will run into a film like this: a Director’s unique vision that may remain in obscurity for years before a brave company brings it back for all of us to enjoy! You know, scenes like THIS:

Thanks to the great website IMDB, we have some fun “Death Bed” trivia!

Director George Barry’s inspiration for “Death Bed” came in a dream, which explains the film’s bizarre surreal feel…

A Cult Legend Is Born – Or Bedded!

Until its official DVD release in 2003, “Death Bed” had been circulated via pirated bootlegs, and unbeknown to George Barry, the film had gained an underground fan base. VHS helped keep the mystique alive…

Director Barry said he discovered people discussing it on the internet one evening and decided to put an official video release of the film into works.

Patton Oswalt’s Obsession!

Comedian Patton Oswalt mentions the movie on his 2007 CD “Werewolves and Lollipops”, where he does a stand-up routine on it (mistakenly referring to it as “Death Bed: The Bed That Eats People”). He even specifically tells people to look up the movie on the IMDb to verify that he wasn’t joking about its existence! Here is that rant:

So thanks to Patton Oswalt for keeping the cult alive, and thanks again to Cult Epics for bringing “Death Bed” back to life for future generations to enjoy!

If you want to make it a double bill of terror, why not try this movie as well?

Yes, it may well be the worst horror film of all time, but why not give it a shot – it’s “Birdemic!”

See the hilariously awful trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/15/birdemic-brilliant-shocker-or-worst-movie-ever-who-will-survive-watching-it/

I also recently took a bloody good ride on the “Terror Train”:

This early 80’s classic stars scream queen Jamie Lee Curtis – check out the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/16/shocktober-day-16-rides-a-bloody-terror-train-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis-slices-the-rails/

Here’s a different kind of scream queen – a naked one with a tail!

This dark norwegian horror film is a gem – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/17/shocktober-horrific-day-17-with-a-tail-shocking-thale-and-bonus-troll-hunter/

Also, a big contest this Halloween season – want to spend Halloween night in Dracula’s castle?

Fill up these caskets, thanks to a great AirBNB contest to stay overnight in Vlad the Impaler’s castle! Read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/18/win-the-chance-to-sleep-in-count-draculas-castle-countess-dracula-bites-on-shocktober-day-18/

If you missed any of the first ten days of Shocktober, then see the list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

Enjoy your “Death Bed” with a side of “Birdemic!”

Here is the new look of horror – and a great way to celebrate “Shocktober 2016!”

All Hail New Horror Master Ben Wheatley!

If you don’t know Director Ben Wheatley, you need to in a hurry! His fourth film just won a special jury prize, and it’s a new way to make an unsettling horror film!

First, a bit about the Director:

British Director Ben Wheatley got his start doing commercials and music videos, then made several acclaimed viral videos for the web. That led to him getting the opportunity to direct features. He is a bold new talent emerging from the UK, with a distinctive style, and a twisted sense of humor!

Let’s look at his first three films quickly – all are largely overlooked here in the US, but were critical hits in England: In May 2009 he directed the feature film “Down Terrace” in eight days; it won the Next Wave prize at Fantastic Fest in Austin and Best UK Feature at Raindance in London.

Here’s the trailer:

The plot is very straightforward: A crime family looks to unmask the police informant in their midst who threatens to take down their business. It’s to Wheatley’s credit that he created a critically-acclaimed film with no time or money…

Next up is a very dark and twisted tale of revenge, murder and madness!

Kill List

“I fucking hate dirty soap.”

Nearly a year after a botched job, a hit man takes a new assignment with the promise of a big payoff for three killings. What starts off as an easy task soon unravels, sending the killer into the heart of darkness.

Here’s the trailer!

This film was released “unrated” for a reason – it’s a violent, dark and twisted thriller that doesn’t pull a punch!

It is also a horror movie of incredible intensity – see more about the film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/08/19/kill-list-director-ben-wheatleys-shocking-thriller-brilliant-hit-man-horror/

And speaking of not pulling punches:

Sightseers

“Police are pursuing a ginger-faced man and an angry woman…”

Boy, are they ever! Check out the trailer!

His next movie was a perverse black comedy about two lovers who travel the British countryside, killing anyone who gets in their way…as you can see by the trailer, it’s a British “Badlands meets Natural Born Killers!”

All of this led to his next film = a low budget, black-and-white meditation on horror:

A Field In England!

Friend: You think about a thing before you touch it, am I right?
Whitehead: Is that not usual?
Friend: Not in Essex.

Check out the trailer!

Here’s the plot: fleeing for their lives, a small party abandon their Civil War confederates and escape through an overgrown field. Thinking only of what lay behind, they are ambushed by two dangerous men and made to search the field.

Psychedelia, madness and chaotic forces slowly overtake the group as they question what treasure lies within the malignant field.

Wheatley’s latest movie was the terrific “High Rise” – which is currently available on demand and Blu-ray – another terrific thriller.

if you are in the mood for more classic horror, then nothing beats this:

Yes, the film that made Frank Sinatra divorce Mia Farrow! Check out the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/08/shocktober-day-8-satans-spawn-rosemarys-baby-shocks-mia-farrows-marriage/

It’s been a full “Shocktober 2016” already, and if you missed any, head to my home page to find all of them, like this subtle shocker:

Yes, one of the cinema’s most shocking films – with very little blood! Read the behind-the-scenes stories of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/01/shocktober-is-here-31-days-of-horror-day-1-slices-up-the-texas-chainsaw-massacre/

There are more subtle films as well, still effective horror films, like this one:

Legendary Actor George C. Scott brings gravitas to this great horror film, see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/02/shocktober-2016-haunted-house-the-changeling-spooks-day-2/

If you want something more shocking, I’ve got a good for you as well:

Try this great modern horror film, “High Tension”, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/23/shoctober-day-23-stabs-you-with-high-tension-and-a-switchblade-romance/

Lots of great horror for Halloween, including many from Ben Wheatley!

So check out this “Field In England” and get your experimental Shocktober going!

Having A Good Shocktober 2016?

As you can see, Ernest Borgnine doesn’t like rats, but he’s just frightened by how much fun this Halloween season has been so far!

Shocktober 2016 is counting down to Halloween night, and here is a look at some of this month’s movies:

“Godzilla” Is Back!

Yep, the new “Godzilla: Resurgence” film is out, so you can see the big guy on the big screen! Check out the new trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/11/shocktober-day-11-godzilla-is-back-with-a-resurgence-new-monster-go-go-godzilla/

If you want to see some classic cult horror, then gnaw on this film:

Not only was “Willard” a big hit, but Michael Jackson sang the theme song for the sequel “Ben!”

See Jackson’s live performance on the Academy Awards by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/willard-shocktober-day-12-smells-a-rat-ben-gnaws-at-your-horror-bone/

On the 13th day of Shocktober, I naturally focused on the most famous “13” of all:

See the trailer for the first “Friday the 13th” film – with a very young Kevin Bacon, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/13/friday-the-13th-shocktober-day-13-goes-to-bloody-crystal-lake-friday-the-13th-monster-jason-voorhees/

On the 14th day of Shocktober, I took you overseas for some bloody Italian “gallo” films:

These slasher films are bloody good fun for Halloween – here are a bunch of options:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/14/shocktober-day-14-is-a-locked-room-of-slashing-giallo/

I also stopped by France to share with you a moody, nudity-drenched horror film:

French Director Jean Rollin made some great horror films, see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/15/living-dead-girl-shocktober-day-15-swings-a-bloody-scythe-a-shocking-fascination/

Back in the US, I took a bloody good ride on the “Terror Train”:

This early 80’s classic stars scream queen Jamie Lee Curtis – check out the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/16/shocktober-day-16-rides-a-bloody-terror-train-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis-slices-the-rails/

Here’s a different kind of scream queen – a naked one with a tail!

This dark norwegian horror film is a gem – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/17/shocktober-horrific-day-17-with-a-tail-shocking-thale-and-bonus-troll-hunter/

Also, a big contest this Halloween season – want to spend Halloween night in Dracula’s castle?

Fill up these caskets, thanks to a great AirBNB contest to stay overnight in Vlad the Impaler’s castle! Read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/18/win-the-chance-to-sleep-in-count-draculas-castle-countess-dracula-bites-on-shocktober-day-18/

If creepy accommodations are your thing, then you’ll want to hang out with Jessica, who has some “wet” friends coming over to visit her:

See the creepy “Let’s Scare Jessica To Death” trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/19/shocktober-day-19-scares-jessica-to-death-eerie-psychological-horror/

Now, from the sublime to the raucous!

Checkout Linnea Quigley and “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers!”

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/20/shocktober-20th-linnea-quigleys-naked-living-dead-dance-plus-chainsaw-hookers/

If you missed any of the first ten days of Shocktober, then see the list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

Happy Halloween!

A Bloody “Giallo” For Shocktober 2016!

Yes, it’s time to celebrate Italy’s lurid “giallo” genre once again, as “Shocktober” day #25 slithers into Italy!

Some of the most inventive thrillers ever made came from Italy, during a time when the “giallo” film was at its height – welcome to the bloody world of the Italian sex shocker!

Let’s begin with a film that was so controversial it landed the Director in court, facing prison time! It’s all because of this:

“In the annals of the abnormal there is no more erotic nightmare than the strange lusts of…

A Lizard In A Woman’s Skin!”

One of the most legendary Italian sex shockers is also one of the most controversial! Here is the plot: Florinda Bolkan plays the daughter of a prominant English politician who keeps having recurring “nightmares” in which she makes love to a bisexual nympho who lives downstairs and conducts all-night LSD orgies!

That’s Right: ALL-NIGHT LSD ORGIES!

Anyone who has nightmares involving a bisexual nymph is just looking for trouble! FYI, the film was released in the US as “Schizoid”, which she certainly was! When the nocturnal wet dreams become murderous, the neighbor turns up dead, and Florinda is the main suspect. Did she actually commit the murder she dreamt about?

And Who Is This “Giallo?”

“Giallo” is a 20th-century Italian genre of literature and film. In Italy, the term denotes thrillers, typically of the crime fiction, mystery, and horror categories. “Giallo” refers to a style of murder mystery film which includes lots of horror, eroticism and sex! Here is what one of the books looks like:

As you can see, it’s a lurid “come-on” to the reader, or in this case, to the moviegoer…and “Lizard In A Woman’s Skin” is a perfect fit as well, as it’s a sex shocker with a title as lurid as the style of filmmaking…

The Master! Director Lucio Fulci!

The Director of the movie was Lucio Fulci, one of Italy’s great horror filmmakers.

Among his films was this classic of the genre:

The Director was such a master of shock that a judge threatened to throw him in jail!

One such shocking scene in “Lizard’s Skin” involves a room full of disemboweled dogs. Director Fulci was nearly sent to prison because it was believed that the dogs were real and Fulci had allowed animal cruelty on the film! Crew members had to testify in court that the “dogs” were indeed fake and no animals had ever been harmed. Special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi even presented the dog props in court to convince the jury. This was the first time that an effects artist had to testify in court that their work was fake!

Thanks to the great movie company Mondo Macabro, a great new blu-ray release is here!

You can read more about the film, along with a look at the blu-ray release’s extended features, by clicking on this great website, “Mondo Digital”:

http://www.mondo-digital.com/lizard.html

And you can read more about the genre of italian giallo, with films like this:

One of Italy’s greatest Giallo Directors was Dario Argento, read all about him here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/09/halloween-giallo-masters-agentos-animal-trilogy-fulcis-tortured-ducklings-italian-pulp-fiction/

So now you are getting warmed up to this incredibly entertaining film genre…and want to take it to a whole new level:

Yes, as the 70’s progressed, the genre got even more shocking – you can read all about this classic of the genre by clicking on my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/07/09/time-to-strip-nude-four-flies-and-baba-yaga-to-you-yes-its-classic-italian-giallo/

There are so many more…here are some great posters that capture the energy of the genre:

And the 70’s were a great time for another Italian film genre as well:

Yes, the Italian crime drama thrived in the 70’s and here is a great documentary that looks at the classic films of the 70’s:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/01/19/italian-mobsters-sex-kittens-euro-crime-the-italian-dirty-harry-classic-70s-euro-crime/

So day #25 of “Shocktober” celebrates some of the wildest Italian sex shockers of all time.

Yesterday, I introduced you to THIS FELLOW:

Yes, he seems a bit “mad” as they say – it’s just another great movie from Director Ben Wheatley, who makes eerie and gory horror films – check them out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/24/shocktober-24-has-a-bloody-kill-list-in-a-creepy-field-in-england/

And, if you want to see the crazy killer clowns, naked scream queens and bloody chainsaws from the first ten days of Shocktober, click here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/12/the-first-ten-days-of-shocktober-chainsaws-naked-vampires-scream-queens-clowns-galore/

Let me know how many of these classic shockers you’ve seen!