The Hunter Blu-Ray Review

When it comes to films starring Willem Dafoe his performances are nothing more but mesmeric, outstanding even when the film he stars in is truly awful. The actor is one of films great gems who delivers wonderful performances that are deserving of awards but the true professional he is he doesn't complain just gets on with the job. Past 20 years or so Willem Dafoe has been making big noises in arthouse / world cinema and his latest film The Hunter the actor excels once again as a hired hand to find one of the world's rarest commodities whilst battling his own morality.

The Hunter is based on a novel by Julia Leigh that tells the story of Martin(Willem Dafoe) a mercenary sent from Europe to Australia by mysterious Biotech company.Martin heads to Tasmanian wilderness to embark on a dramatic hunt for the so called last Tasmanian Tiger despite the creature been reported extinct since 1982. As he searches the elusive creature he discovers the mysteries hidden within the wild landscape, triggering long forgotten emotions, but can a human who has led an immoral life find connection and redemption too?

What really grabs your attention in The Hunter is the central performance of Willem Dafoe. As I mentioned earlier in the review the actor rarely disappoints, he also rarely gets a chance to a lead a film and when he gets he grabs the bull by the horns delivering something truly fantastic. Martin is a charismatic emotionless man but when he's on his own especially in the wilderness he's in his element becoming part of the land, a predator, animalistic with frightening tenacity. When there's no dialogue you really do get drawn into something rather haunting,atmospheric gving you a chance to appreciate the surroundings he's in as well as his predatory skills.

We have to also give a mention to Morgana Davies and Finn Woodlock who play the children at the farm Martin stays at, they deliver a performance so naturalistic as they are given a chance to be..children. They bring out the parental side of Martin as they adopt him as a father figure with their own father lost in the wilderness, this makes Martin feel awkward. Even the children's mother Lucy (Frances O'Connor) whose in a depressive state drugged up, constantly sleeping greets Martin's presence within her home she embraces him when he sorts out the power and when he becomes more comfortable it then his morality is questioned even his loneliness.

It's Films like The Hunter that make you think twice at how small the world is becoming at a frightening pace. This is a film that doesn't just question the morality but environmental issues but the allegorical message of the film is terrifying and throughout the film thanks to the smartly written script reminders of the world changing drastically are scattered throughout the film: the desrruction of the Tasmanian rain forest (like many other forests globally), job losses that impact local towns as they loose jobs, conservation groups been harassed by multi-national companies but most of all hunting a extinct creatures. The latter sort of ask you why do you hunt these 'mythical' creatures and why should we only read about these creatures in books and for the sake of the creature and it's environment maybe they should stay 'extinct'?

The Hunter is an beautifully shot film thanks to Robert Humphrey's breath taking cinematography that captivates the desolation and beauty of the wild terrain of Tasmania. The world is getting smaller and these hidden tranquil treasures are becoming as elusive tiger asking you what can you do to make sure these lands don't disappear?

The Hunter wont be a film which will appeal to everyone as it's a slow burning psychological thriller will keep you engaged until the end.It's atmospheric, beautifully shot and masterfully performed by an underrated esteemed actor in the industry today.

Paul Devine 

★★★★☆

Rating:15
DVD/BD Rating: 29th October 2012 (UK)
Directed By: Daniel Nettheim
Cast:Willem Dafoe, Sam Neill , Morgana Davies, Frances O'Connor
Buy The Hunter:Blu-ray / DVD
Win The Hunter on DVD here

King Of Devil's Island DVD Review

King of Devil's Island (2010), though not an easy film to watch, is a drama which demands to be seen. Starring Stellan Skarsgård, Kristoffer Joner and Benjamin Helstad and directed by Marius Holst, this is a harrowing lesson in the harsh reality of human nature and man's inner strength in the face of adversity.

Based on true events, the story is set in the infamous correctional facility of Bastøy on a remote and inhospitable island in the Norwegian fjords, during the early part of the 20th century. When a new and headstrong boy called Erling (Helstad) arrives it soon becomes clear to everyone, especially Bastøy's governor Håkon (Skarsgård), that this troubled young man is not ready to conform to the strict regime on the island. Before long Erling's rebellious nature comes to the fore with life changing results for them all.

King of Devil's Island is a devastating film. Shot on location in Estonia and Norway, the mesmeric natural beauty of its setting and the minimal style and colour palette in which it is shot is breathtaking. Both the snow and ice covered countryside outside backing onto a seemingly endless sea which stretches beyond the island's rough beach, and the facility's interior monotone colour scheme of grey and white, create perfect neutral surroundings against which the action plays out.

This harsh air continues with the film's overriding realism - both in the conditions in which the boys live and in the brutality of the men who run the concentration camp facility - and at points threatens to engulf the viewer with its seeping sense of despair and hopelessness. From this angle the film works marvellously, leaving you with a real feeling of what these young men (one of whose only crime had been to steal a few pence from a church offering plate) went through, and hence an admiration for their stoic perseverance to survive in the face of insurmountable odds.

Ultimately however this film revolves around three people - Erling, Håkon and Brâthan (Kristoffer Joner) the sadistic head of Erling's section within Bastøy. That by the end of the film it is Erling and his fellow inmates with whom the viewer sides will come as no surprise. However it is the performances of the actors who bring these three disparate characters to life which is undoubtedly the most memorable aspect of the film. From the outstanding performance of newcomer Helstad as the damaged Erling to Skarsgård as the ineffectual and ultimately weak Håkon and Joner as his twisted subordinate, the relationship which plays out between these men will hold your attention until the film's final reel.

Shocking, moving and mesmeric in equal proportions, King of Devil's Island makes essential viewing if only as a warning against the extremities of human nature and man's cruelty against his fellow man.

Cleaver Patterson

★★★★☆

Rating:12
UK DVD/BD Release Date: 29th October 2012
Directed By: Marius Holst
Cast: Stellan Skarsgård, Benjamin Helstad,Kristoffer Joner, Trond Nilssen
Buy King of Devil's Island:DVD / Blu-ray

Brake DVD Review

You can really appreciate a quality ironically by the number spin-offs or in this films case clones or films with similar scenarios. Rodrigo Cortes 2010 film Buried starring Ryan Reynolds is a highly underrated film which oddly enough hasn't seen any 'clone' films, just a few similar scenario films until now, Brake starring Stephen Dorff. So is Brake another Buried or simply a test of character for an actor for an actor who for many years puzzled us all why he hasn't excelled in bigger parts or is the film a test of how much claustrophobic you maybe?

What Appears to be an random kidnapping into something more sinister when Secret Service Agent Jeremy Reins (Dorff) discovers he's being used as a pawn in a terrorist plot. Watching the clock tick down to an unknown catastrophe. Jeremy is forced by his captors to listen to the outside world on the brink of collapse, knowing the the only way to save the people he loves is to divulge a secret that he has sworn to protect.

The first question you'll probably ask, is Brake a 'Buried clone'? The answer is yes but answer is also no. The basic set up is the same (enclosed captive who has no clue why he is there or who is responsible), but as the film progresses we gradually move away from Buried plot with the film going in it's own direction.The story is kept intense, engaging with a few twists thrown that make you think twice 'have I really sussed the plot?'. Things do work really well until the end things go pear shaped probably thanks to an eccentric flawed script which give the film the ridiculous 24 tv episode feel (though I am a fan of all things Jack Bauer).As the flaws happen right at the end of the film this could leave you in a forgiveable mood because of the timings or the total opposite frustrated and wondering why have I just wasted 80 minutes of my time watching this film! What's more confusing is at no time do we get a reason on why the film is called Brake?!

As for Stephen Dorff, in Brake he may not reach the same emotional levels Ryan Reynolds did in Buried however Dorff does deliver a really strong performance commanding the screen in a film that many other actor may have stumbled at. The film also proves he can hold a film on is own and he may have starred in a howlers as well as many one hit wonders like Sofia Copolla's Somewhere proves he does possess the acting chops to do bigger and better things.

Brake is an enjoyable tense thriller and if you can forgive the ending this film will be worthwhile your time which Buried and 24 fans will enjoy.

Paul Devine

★★★1/2☆

Rating:15
UK DVD/BD Release Date: 29th October 2012
Directed by:Gabe Torres
Cast: Stephen Dorff, Chyler Leigh, Jr Bourne, Tom Berenger, Kali Rocha, Pruitt Taylor Vince
Buy Brake:Blu Ray / DVD

The Ford Brothers The Dead 2 comes to live In India!

The Flaying New Trailer Suggests Secrets Should Stay Secret

Die Nibelungen (Masters Of Cinema) Review

Die Nibelungen came out in 1924 and was directed by the master of German Expressionism Fritz Lang. It’s really 2 long films put together which is turn comes around to 4 hours and 40 minutes. It was made in-between his first Dr. Mabuse film and his Magnum opus Metropolis. It in a way is a stepping-stone to what would become Metropolis and like that his later ex-wife Thea von Harbou co-wrote the film.

The film tells the epic saga of Siegfried of Norse Mythology. He is the son of King Siegmund of Xanten. He forges his own sword. He hears stories of the kingdom of Burgundy and Kriemhild the Princess. He announces when he leaves Xanten he wants to win her hand in marriage. The swordsmith Mime who’s shop he forged his sword, tells him of a shortcut to Burgundy but it reality it leads him to a dragon which he slays and baths in it’s blood but missed a shot so he gets a Achilles’ heal. He goes on numerous adventures on his way to Burgundy. There is a part 2 of the film but it would spoil the film too much.

The film isn’t one of Fritz Lang’s best films. It’s very baggy, it’s about 4 hour and 40 minutes and every scene is dragged out to excruciating levels as times. It is a film from the 20s so obviously the pacing is very different to modern films but there are 20 minutes scenes that should be half the length.  However film is basically an early mini-series, each segment and both films has a title card.  The plus sides of the film are the imagery is hallucinatory at times and utterly fantastical. The 1st half of the film is most visually arresting which ends brilliantly. The 2nd half has an astonishing climax though. The story is truly epic in scope, which can be expected when it comes from mythology.  It’s worth watching simply for the imagery.

Overall, It’s a good piece of early sword and sorcery cinema. It’s not gonna be for most people but if your interesting in Frit Lang and early cinema it’s worth seeing.

Ian Schultz

★★★★☆

Rating:PG
DVD/BD Re-Release Date: 29th October 2012 (UK)
Directed By: Fritz Lang
Cast: Paul Richter, Margarete Schön , Theodor Loos
Buy Die Nibelungen: BLU-RAY/ DVD

Watch The Metaphoric Sci-Fi Short SEED

This is why I love short films sometimes more than feature films as final result compared to some of the crap that's plagued our cinemas recently these films are a breath of fresh air. Some the ideas may not be 100% original but script wise, visually, structurally superior asks the question maybe some of those feature films maybe should be short films or simply should have stayed short film. We're a little disappointed we haven't covered short films as much as we should have this year but things are changing starting tonight with Tyson Wade Johnston's Seed. 

Seed is set in the year 2071, where technology has brought mankind to the brink of colonization on a planet named Gaia, one astronaut takes on an isolated mission and discovers unearthly horrors that could bring an end to human life on this planet. This is a tale of colonization gone wrong , a film that feels like a modern war film too, its a visual treat plenty of atmosphere most of all this looks a professionally polished CGI film worthy of  14 minutes of your time.

SEED (2012) Short Film from Tyson Wade Johnston on Vimeo.

source:Vimeo

Ghost Stories Volume 5 DVD Review

The fifth volume of the BBC’s Christmas ghost stories, released by the BFI next week, sees the combined issue of A View From a Hill and Number 13, the short-lived noughties reincarnation of that excellent strand of yuletide chillers, A Ghost Story for Christmas.

Stretching back to the 1971 offering, The Stalls of Barchester (but pre-empted by 1968’s superbly creepy Whistle and I’ll Come to You), the series was fixture of Christmas television through the decade before the wheels ultimately fell off and it was sadly canned. It was briefly resurrected in 2005 in the shape of A View From a Hill, with Number 13 following a year later, before history unfortunately repeated itself.

In the first of the spectral tales, A View From a Hill, archaeological academic Dr Fanshawe (Mark Letheren) visits the estate of formerly prosperous landowner Squire Richards (Pip Torrens) charged with cataloguing the oddities held within his impressive home. Among the curiosities is a pair of binoculars once belonging to a disreputable amateur archaeologist; a man whose extra-curricular, corpse-centric activities led to his untimely demise on the spot of an old execution site. Taking the binoculars to a nearby hill Fanshawe glimpses the ghostly image of an ancient local monastery, long since ruined; the disturbing apparition suggesting that the binoculars hold some ghastly power imparted by their late owner.

The adaptation of M. R. James’ Number 13 transposes the action from northern Denmark to a closely-knit, rural English setting, in which another academic (this one from Oxford and going by the name Anderson) finds himself in the employ of the local librarian. Anderson’s work revolves around some of the more macabre entries into the town’s archives, ones which reference civil war-era witch trails, and grim accounts of bizarre satanic rituals in nearby buildings. The Oxford man’s involvement in the case becomes more dangerous upon the realisation that his hotel room sits adjacent to a mysterious, occasionally perceptible and sinister room 13, a location with possible links bizarre goings-on.

The BBC’s Christmas ghost stories are uncanny in their ability to ramp-up colossal amounts of tension, and generate a tangible sense of dread in a little over half an hour, all with a miniscule budget. Luke Watson’s ability to suggest the presence of a malevolent woodland entity, stalking the forlorn yet determined Fanshawe in A View is absolutely Blair Witch-esque in its captivating, minimalist creepiness. Pier Wilkie opts to add a dash of visual horror to his tale in 13, in a largely successful move away from the simplicity of the previous story; the occasional moments in which the production’s lack of financial clout is visible are overshadowed by the charismatic and convincing performances of its cast. Paul Freeman is enjoyably devious as the untrustworthy librarian, Greg Wise thoroughly engaging as the uncertain professor who is dragged through the emotional and psychological wringer.

An exercise in economical horror, the DVD extras including essays by BFI Mediatheque Curator, Simon McCallum, author Jonathan Rigby (amongst others), and Christopher Lee’s 2000 reading of Number 13 contribute to a neat package. A fully fledged five-disc box set also available combines all of the BFI’s previous releases to remind you that not all TV is talent shows and Tyneside tantrums.

Chris Banks (@chris_in_2d) 

★★★1/2☆

Rating:12
DVD Release Date: 29th October 2012 (UK)
Directed By: Pier Wilkie, Luke Watson
Cast: Greg Wise, Paul Freeman, David Burke, Mark Letheren, Pip Torrens
Buy Ghost Stories Volume 5:DVD

Horror Channel brings winter chills

Deep and crisp and bloody! Get ready to be frozen to the bone this November with Horror Channel’s Winter Chills Weekend – featuring some truly snow-filled spine tingling premieres.

Fri Nov 9 @ 22:55

The hills are alive – with undead Nazis as the season kicks off with the premiere of DEAD SNOW (2009), a beautifully nasty horror comedy directed by Tom Wirkola (Hansel &Gretel Witch Hunters). With a car full of ski equipment and enough beer to fuel their escape from everyday life, eight medical students head out on their vacation.  Isolated in the snowy hills the group begin to realise they came to the wrong resort, as deep in the hills lay an unthinkable evil. 

Sat Nov 10 @ 22.55

The season continues with BLOOD RUNS COLD (2011). Swedish director Sonny Laguna gives the slasher genre a welcome Scandinavian make-over. Record-producer Winona heads to her hometown on the outskirts of Stockholm for a break... Shortly after settling in, she invites a former boyfriend and a couple to the house. But there is an unknown presence stirring within the house, one that has been waiting for the right moment to strike.

 

 

Sun Nov 11 @ 22.55

Wrapping up the season is sci-fi horror thriller THE THAW (2009) Directed by Mark A Lewis, it stars Val Kilmer as Dr. Krupien the head of a team of ecology students, who are examining a melting ice cap in the Arctic.  When Krupien unearths a prehistoric specimen the likes of which has never been seen, he summons four of his brightest students to take part in the excavation. But the melting polar ice-cap has released a deadly pre-historic parasite…

 

Moments Worth Paying For Gemma Atkinson Supports Anti-Piracy Campaign In Iconic Way

Two young design students from London have created an innovative take on anti-piracy advertising for the UK film, TV and video industry.

Leighton Pountney (24) and Omri Dvir (27) will see their idea brought to life in outdoor advertising UK-wide, as well across the Internet from today.
Called All for the Price of a Ticket, their idea uses till receipts – with a twist – to celebrate the entertainment value behind the purchase price of a DVD, download or cinema ticket. The campaign has been brought to life in the form of a film quiz called Riddle Me Th?s, which features giant receipts, each offering the public the chance to  solve clues to great films at FindAnyFilm.com, the UK search engine for official film, TV and video.

A host of screen stars are supporting the approach, including BAFTA award winner Adam Deacon and film and TV actress Gemma Atkinson. Their favourite films feature as riddles in the campaign, alongside clues from other film and TV experts, including film critics and bloggers.

 Adam Deacon said: “So much time, energy and passion goes into making films and TV shows, so it’s always disappointing if people choose not to pay for your work. It’s great to see a campaign that celebrates the entertainment value you get back from your DVD, download or cinema ticket.”

 Gemma Atkinson added: “It’s refreshing to see the industry creating a campaign like this with the young people it hopes to inspire. The riddle element is a great way to get people thinking about how film and TV makes you feel – and whether that feeling is something worth paying for.”

The students behind the campaign first submitted their idea to the YCN Annual Student Awards, which spotlight young talent by challenging students to answer a live creative brief. The Industry Trust for IP Awareness, which commissioned an anti-piracy brief for the 2012 Awards, spotted the potential of the concept – and is working with its industry partners to bring it to life.
Omri Dvir, one of the students behind the campaign, said: “We’re thrilled that our idea is being turned into a real campaign. We wanted to get across the point that the price of your film or TV show is great value for all the enjoyment you get in return. You get magical worlds, futuristic technology, great memories and of course countless pub conversations.”

 Liz Bales, Director General of The Industry Trust for IP Awareness, which commissioned the campaign on behalf of the UK film, TV and video industry, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Omri and Leighton’s idea to life. Our research shows that nearly half of young men today access some of their entertainment from unauthorised sources. So who better to take inspiration from than the generation of people we are hoping to reach?”

The new advertising will form part of the UK film, TV and video industry’s innovative Moments Worth Paying For campaign, which spans cinema, outdoor advertising, PR and social media. It will feature in Clear Channel advertising spaces UK-wide from tomorrow as well as on Findanyfilm.com and a wealth of other film and TV industry websites.

As you can see from the top image Gemma Atkinson one of her 'moments worth paying for' was the iconic scene to re-create an iconic scene from Pulp Fiction becoming Uma Thurman to help promote a Moment Worth Paying For campaign. Below is an behind the scenes video looking at how she becam uma thurman and her talking about her support for the campaign too. Here at The People's Movies & Cinehouse do support the campaign we also believe something has to be done about the pricing structure as well as the overall experience of going to the cinema or buying that DVD or Blu-Ray.Though we might have the home release but let's be honest there is some great scenes from films over the decades that should only be enjoyed in one format that's on the big screen at your local cinema.
To put your film know-how to the test, visit www.facebook.com/FindAnyFilm.

Try To Remain Calm And Watch Official Trailer For UFO

Super Bitch DVD Review

Massimo Dallamano's latest film to be re-released, Super Bitch, takes us down a different route to the previously reissued, The Night Child. Instead of religious horror, the cinematographer turned director takes us on a tale chock-full of espionage, blackmail and sexual depravity. It is likely to have its fans, but to a casual viewer, it's difficult to understand the point of Super Bitch.

Undercover police inspector Ivan Rassimov attempts to expose an escort agency that has been blackmailing high profile clients into smuggling drugs over the border.

 Super Bitch begins like a trashy James Bond film/Euro-Crime thriller opening with crime honcho, Mama (Patricia Hayes), in a ruined Middle-Eastern city arranging drug deals with a mysterious stranger. It's not long until this stranger is wiped out by a skulking undercover cop, Cliff (Rassimov) soon resulting in a high octane car chase. Super Bitch begins feeling focused, however, things then seem to take an unfocussed turn with the plot soon verging on softcore erotica meets crude comedy. It all simply feels a bit disjointed and unclear.
The title Super Bitch (used for the film's 1980s reissue, to cash in on Stephanie Beacham's fame as Sable Colby in Dynasty and The Colbys), does not feel hugely appropriate - it gives the impression Dallamano's film is like The Stud or The Bitch. The original Blue Movie Blackmail is probably a more fitting title.

Beacham does bring her traditional feisty sex appeal to the role and as ever is a complete pleasure to watch as Joanne, the escort sleeping with high profile clients. Ivan Rassimov brings a sense of sleazy gravitas to the role of Inspector Cliff, playing the part of the Dirty Harry-esque cop well. 

There is also a funky trumpet infused score from Riz Ortolani (that screams cult film), used to fit the ever shifting tone of Super Bitch. Cult film enthusiasts are likely to enjoy the madness and incoherency of this feature, as well as its trashy charm. Where else would you see a high profile politician dressed as a rabbit being fed carrots by a half naked Stephanie Beacham or Patricia Hayes driving a convertible filled with oddball Italians singing songs about her?

If in the mood for something madcap, and slightly different you could do a lot worse than Super Bitch. However, if you are look for a solid story and sense of focus, Super Bitch is one to miss.
As always, Arrow Video have restored the print to a stellar quality and included a selection of interesting special features, including short documentary, 'Bullets, Babes and Blood'.

Andrew McArthur 

★★1/2☆☆

Stars: Stephanie Beacham, Ivan Rassimov , Patricia Hayes
Director: Massimo Dallamano
Release: 29th October 2012
Certificate: 15 (UK)
Buy Super Bitch:DVD

Excision Review

90210's AnnaLynne McCord leads the cast of Excision, a dark, visually rich tale, filled with stirring horror and tinges of black comedy. The unique style and self-awareness that fills Richard Bates Jr.'s film helps assert it as one of the finest features of 2012.

Pauline (AnnaLynne McCord) is a teenage outcast, infatuated with the idea of performing surgery. Her sinister behaviour alienates her from her image-conscious parents, Phyllis (Traci Lords) and Bob (Roger Bart) as well as her bitchy classmates and judgemental teachers. Only Pauline's young sister (Ariel Winter) who suffers from cystic fibrosis understands her, resulting in the young outcast attempting to perform life-saving surgery on her sibling.

Bates Jr. does not hold back in any way, fully transporting us into the mind of a twisted teenage outcast. Excision captures the gore-filled fantasies that clog Pauline's psyche with a trippy visual originality. This is paralleled by the cynical glistening sheen of middle class suburbia, a world that tries its best to subdue Pauline's warped fantasies. This idea of crude madness in suburbia gives vibes of the iconic work of John Waters (think modern day Polyester or Serial Mom), who has clearly been an influence on the young filmmaker. The teenage outcast theme in Excision also feels slightly reminiscent of the likes of Carrie, whilst the elements of body horror have David Cronenberg written all over them. It is essentially the best elements of many classic horrors and cult films finely crafted into one feature.

Part of the pleasure of Excision comes from the perfect elements of self-aware, dark comedy layered throughout the feature. From Pauline's no holds barred attitude with her parents and classmates to the frequent cynical looks at suburban life, Excision hits a perfect balance between horror and comedy.

Excision's cast is also likely to delight fans of camp and cult cinema. AnnaLynne McCord (90210) is completely unrecognisable in this dark role, managing to make us sympathetic to a highly unlikeable character. Pauline may be completely demented and her actions repulsive, but McCord's performance still connects with viewers - primarily when seeing Pauline bonding with younger sister, Grace. Roger Bart (The Stepford Wives) excels as Pauline's tired Father, whilst Ariel Winter's (Modern Family) pitch-perfect turn is likely to tug at your heartstrings.

The performance of the year, however, goes to the magnificent Traci Lords as Phyllis, Pauline's mother. Phyllis appears as a harsh, controlling figure to begin with - we see her judging her family every morning at the breakfast table, yet we still connect through Lords' stellar performance. We gradually see that Phyllis is a flawed character who simply wants the best for her children, however this is hindered by Pauline's actions slowly breaking her family apart. Lords is a revelation.

Excision also features an amusing appearance from John Waters' as a minister who counsels Pauline. Seeing the Pope of Trash as a devout representative of God is just another element of Bates Jr.'s clever, self-aware screenplay. Malcolm McDowell adds further star quality as a frustrated teacher, whilst Ray Wise and Marlee Matlin bring some further fun to the cast .

Excision is a must see for fans of cult cinema - it is the finest horror of the year.

Andrew McArthur 

★★★★★

Stars: AnnaLynne McCord, Traci Lords and Roger Bart  
Director: Richard Bates Jr.
Certificate: 18 (UK)
Ltd. Theatrical Release: 2nd November 2012
DVD/BR Release: 12th November 2012
Pre-Order/Buy Excision:DVD / BLU-RAY

London: The Modern Babylon DVD Review

With 2012, Diamond Jubilee, Para-Olympics, Olympic Games and all, placing London under the gaze of the world’s media; London: The Modern Babylon gives the capital city another chance to take centre-stage.

Julien Temple’s kaleidoscopic ode to London mixes archive footage with interviews, film and television clips, documenting its history throughout the Twentieth Century up to the present day, from idyllic Edwardian summers, through war, immigration, rock and roll, and boom and bust. Temple mixes his footage, juxtaposing his images to create a fluid tableau of events covering the last hundred years or so. Early Twentieth Century immigrants appear alongside their modern day counterparts, suffragettes and Mary Jane’s Mishap, accounts of racial tension and class divides with the voyeuristic first-person filter of Michael Powell’s Peeping Tom. From 1905 to 2012 it’s a glimpse at a city which has changed immeasurably over the decades, but still retains an enduring sense of identity.

As is to be expected from the man who helmed such films as The Great Rock ‘n’ Roll Swindle and Oil City Confidential, music plays a pivotal role in the creation of this two hour, London-centric collage. Footage of bombed-out terraces and air-raid shelters roll along to the beat of Mr Churchill Says, while riots and anti-war demos (not surprisingly) dance to the tune of Street Fighting Man. The result is an entrancing amalgam of sights and sounds that feels immensely substantial, pertinent and raw, even if so much of this trip down memory lane might really be old news.

The stars of the show are without question the city’s inhabitants. Tony Benn, and the late Malcolm McLaren pop up to wax lyrical about their home town, along with numerous commoners who have made the city their home over the years. It’s an intriguing and expressive way of reinforcing the notion that an organisation is only as good as its people.

London may receive an inordinate amount of exposure in comparison to this nation’s other cities of note, but Temple’s ability to weave and create such an alluring, musical, rhythmic tribute should be of interest to even those who hail from very distant towns.

Chris Banks (@Chris_in_2D)

★★★★☆

Rating:15
UK DVD Release Date:29th October 2012
Directed by: Julien Temple
Cast: Michael Gambon, Hetty Bower , Miss Marsh , Tony Benn
Buy:London: The Modern BabylonOn DVD

Hammer Films DVD Special Edition Reviews: Rasputin, The Mummy's Shroud, The Devil Rides Out

The Hammer vaults flaunt perhaps the world’s greatest collection of classic horror.  Sure, the Universal monsters have garnered legendary status and are perhaps a little more dependable for production value, but for cult status and cast, the British titan has no real adversaries. Perhaps due to the company’s recent revival and the commencing of its film production (last years The Woman in Black starring Daniel Radcliffe was new-wave Hammer produce) classic Hammer films have been re-mastered and reissued on DVD and Blu Ray, making now the best time to own an integral part of cinema history.

Rasputin (1966)

Rasputin, a holy man with the power to heal the sick, slowly makes his way through pre-revolution Russia towards St Petersburg with the sole intent of working his way towards the Tsars, his ruthless pursuit of wealth and power mark him as a danger to all those who stand in his way.

                One of Hammer’s many historical-epics-on-a-tight-budget, Rasputin starring Christopher Lee as the infamous holy man-cum-mad-man is handled with diligent care and mindfulness to its capabilities. In less skilled hands the film could have appeared over-reaching, but with a solid cast and careful scripting it keeps its focus on character.

                It’s important that the film be labelled as a historic drama with a dark side (what history doesn’t have a dark side?) as opposed to Hammer’s typical horror, to label this a horror movie feels somewhat criminal and dismissive. The thing that constantly amazes is Lee’s wonderful performance as the boisterous, brutish, subtle, and manipulative Rasputin.  Never before, and possibly after, has Lee achieved that range of character; his ability to slip between the mad monk’s many faces is the prize of the feature and the staple that holds it together.  The film does unfortunately waver at points, losing its focus or drifting into less arresting grounds, but on the whole it’s an enjoyable a and unwholesome affair.

Directed By: Don Sharp  Cast:Christopher Lee, Barbara Shelley , Richard Pasco

★★★☆☆

The Mummy’s Shroud (1967)

The Mummy’s Shroud is perhaps the most bipolar in terms of quality out the three releases, at its best points it appears quant, romantic even, adventurous, and unsettling, yet on the other hand it can seem amateur and messy.  The third of Hammer’s Mummy films, Shroud allows itself to become victim to tedious writing, the typical story of “archaeologists warned against their escapades, unleash terror on themselves”, seems the basis for just about every Mummy film in existence. If you ignore the recycled narrative then the film can still thrill.

                Once the Mummy is awakened the film breathes new life into itself picking up pace. The Mummy scenes are actually quite vicious; Eddie Powell’s (Christopher Lee’s regular stunt double) slow cumbersome movements and the brutality of his Mummy’s attacks foresee a time when monsters like Michael Myers and Jason Voorhees would rule the screens. A fantastic climax leaves the film in good standing, but one can’t help but wish the rest of the film achieved that level of excitement.

                There are glimpses of style and suspense but too few to mark the film out, this along with the fact the feature is mostly a few tense scenes strung together with a lack of real grit, lure the film into a middle ground of average horror.
Directed by: John Gilling Cast: André Morell, John Phillips , David Buck

★★☆☆☆

The Devil Rides Out (1968)

One of the truly great Hammer contributions to cinema, The Devil Rides Out is an exercise in perfect occult horror. Adapted by Richard Matheson from a Dennis Wheatley novel, the film follows two old friends, The Duc de Richleau (Christopher Lee) and Rex Van Ryn(Leon Greene) as they try to rescue a deceased friend’s’ son from the clutches of a satanic cult. The cult, led by the diabolic Mocata (Charles Gray), will stop at nothing to retrieve the young man and punish those who crossed them.

                Jumping straight to the point is a key factor in the films’ success; the story keeps the characters moving and never takes a dull or pointless turn. A stellar performance from Lee (one of his very best, and personal favourites) ensures that the plot is guided carefully around any possibly ridiculous devices. One of the key strengths of the piece is Lee’s polar relationship to Gray’s equally mesmerising Mocata, the two play out a battle of wits whilst rarely sharing any actual screen time.  The action is kept in check, the plot is gripping, the Wicker man vibe is strong and helps put a stamp of purely British terror on the feature, plus there are more than a few genuinely unnerving scenes.     
The film is frequently criticised for its disappointing visual effects, but apart from a dodgy spider gag the effects work pretty damn well.  The appearance of the actual Devil is a terrifying visitation thanks to some brutally unattractive make-up, as is the appearance of the Angel of Death, things that out of context could seem dated, but given the sharpness of the script and Terence Fisher’s tight direction pulls off smoothly.

                Few Hammer films achieve the crisp and startling quality of this piece after all these years, and even fewer are almost faultless. The Devil Rides Out is not just a fantastic example of Hammer’s capabilities, but a perfect alignment of those qualities that evade most horror productions; a stellar script, perfect cast, and genuine thrills.

Directed by: Terence Fisher Cast:Christopher Lee, Charles Gray , Nike Arrighi

★★★★★

SCOTT CLARK

Your Sister's Sister Blu-Ray Review

Any one who says love isn't complicated must be reading too many Mills 'n' Boon novels need to get a grip of reality. Life is complicated but is also beautiful in it's simplest form just like relationships, so introduce Lynn Shelton the director of Humpaday to the mix. Take those simple conventions of life make them complex going on farcical but most of all situations become truly believable resulting in the charming Your Sister's Sister.

Lost in emotional slump for the past year due to his brothers death Jack (Mark Duplass) takes the advice of his best friend Iris (Emily Blunt) to spend a week at her family's remote island retreat for a week of solitude and reflection. Upon arrival at the house Jack discovers some one is already there, Hannah (Rose Marie De Witt) Iris Sister who is also there for reflection with the end result the pair spending an awkward night together. The following morning the pair get an unexpected guest when Iris arrives at their front door setting off boundless revelations, complicated secrets and emotionally twisted tale of siblings and best friends, loyalty and love.

When you have a film that has improvisation or even improvisation in any form it can be a risky move. In Your Sister's Sister what we get is something that's brutally honest most of all very sincere.Everything is kept believable thanks to the characters who are likeable as well as creating a nice chemistry between the three leads which never feels forced. To highlight how natural and flowing things where Shelton captures the moment with scenes were shot in one shot which is a rarity these days.

Your Sister's Sister isn't a laugh out loud a minute film nor a romantic comedy in the same description as the Romcoms we get these days a dime a dozen. I would go as far as calling this more a sitcom as it's all in the dialogue and the rapport of the characters, also we don't get bombarded with long winding info on each character just enough to know she was with him, he is a slacker, she was with her then with him and Bob is your uncle.

Everything seems to work thanks to the performances of the cast. Mark Duplass despite the one been lumbered at times with the films 'awkward moments' handles Jack's part masterfully balancing his character's mischievous buffoonery with endless insecurities. His handling of the character probably thanks to him been one of the founders of Mumblecore sub-genre, so if Duplass is Ying Rose Marie De Witt must be Yang. As Hannah she is cheekily manipulative , homewrecker of sorts but also a fragile troubled soul too.Emily Blunt as Iris delivers a safe performance and been the bigger name of the three cast members credit goes to her as she proves she has the ability to improvise an area many other bigger names have either tried and failed miserably or don't even go near. You may also ask how come Iris and Hannah are sisters whilst one is American the other British? Don't have to Sherlock Holmes to figure it out but I won't spoil the moment as it's a funny scene but it gives the film an extra dimension. With De Witt been a late replacement for Rachel Weisz you wonder if this film would have worked with 2 British female leads?

In words of a former Colleague Your Sisters Sister is also a film that will be enjoyed 'by dudes' just as much as women.There's no fantasy fairytale scenarios just 3 normal fragile souls in need of some 'me time' but now finding themselves in a rather crowded retreat,a crowed house that leads to some farcical results. For all it's charms Your Sisters Sister does at times fell a little stretched , even flat at times but thanks to the simplicity of the plot and great performances from the cast it keeps the film interesting but most of all entertaining. The end scene may frustrate some of you but as improvisation is the name of the game here Lynn Shelton leaves this point of the film for you to improvise.

Paul Devine

★★★1/2☆

Rating:15 (UK)
DVD/BD Release Date: 29th October 2012
Directed By: Lynn Shelton
Cast: Mark Duplass, Emily Blunt , Rosemarie DeWitt
Buy/Pre-Order Your Sister's Sister:DVD / Blu-ray

Lords of Salem Trailer

 At last we have the first trailer for Rob Zombie's latest film; The Lords of Salem. Zombie's film film career started back in 2003 with House of a Thousand Corpses two years later saw the release of the sequel:The Devil's Rejects, a significantly more grown-up film that really showed off Zombie's talents behind the camera. He rebooted the Halloween franchise, made a part two that was just as stylish and visceral, visited the world of the animated in The Haunted World of El Superbeasto. So far Zombie has garnered a significant amount of praise marking him out as one of the more interesting directors indulging in macabre cinema today, his latest film looks like it could be his most inventive, haunting, beautiful, and art-house flick.

Directed and Written by: Rob Zombie
Starring: Sheri-Moon Zombie, Ken Foree, Bruce Davison, Patricia Quinn, Jeff Daniel Phillips

Synopsis: The town of Salem is visited by a 300 year-old coven of witches, after a local DJ plays a record sent to her mysteriously by unknown persons.

SCOTT CLARK

Watch The Fantastic Portrait Of A Projectionist Short

When we go to the cinema we do seem to take things for granted and when changes happen we only seem to comment what we see in front of us if you like to say 'shop floor'. The ticket prices, snack prices, atmosphere of the cinema screen, quality of the film but everytime we do this we do forget probably the most important person....The projectionist. He or she is responsible of setting up the magic we pay to watch enfold in front of us but if your a lover of film (or cinephile as we call them at Cine and The People's Movies) they are also going through drastic changes thanks to the digital age.

35mm is dying been replaced by digital films, you could say it's the end of film, as many old films are too fragile to be transferred, you may not know if your local cinema has changed but where is 35mm film still running? Good question, Ridwaan Fridie, a projectionist from South Africa still is living the dream and he is the subject of Philip Bloom's fantastic short film documentary Portrait Of A Projectionist.

Portrait of Ridwaan Fridie. A film projectionist in the Labia theatre in Cape Town, South Africa for the past 24 years but with big changes on the horizon where does that leave Ridwaan?

If you love film in every way this short doc will go down a treat.

Portrait of a projectionist from Philip Bloom on Vimeo.

source:Firstshowing

The Night Child DVD Review

Chances are, The Night Child is not a title that most viewers will easily recognise. Fortunately, this little-known Italian horror from  1975 receives its UK DVD release from Arrow Video this month, much to the delight of many genre fans. Boasting chills similar to Don't Look Now, Who Saw Her Die? and Suspiria, The Night Child is not to be missed.

Massimo Dallamano (the renowned cinematographer of A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More) directs this tale of a documentary maker (played by Richard Johnson) exploring the world of Italian Satanic art for a BBC television program. After gifting his daughter (Nicoletta Elmi)  an ancient medallion, she simultaneously begins to develop violent tendencies - surely that has nothing to do with the fact that this medallion belonged to a notorious young murderess.

Dallamano is a master of crafting atmosphere and tension with The Night Child blurring the lines between the horror film and an art piece. Alongside Dallamano's brooding and utterly unsettling direction, this feature also boasts the stunning cinematography of Franco Delli Colli (The Last Man On Earth). With these two major creative talents involved, The Night Child guarantees some beautifully crafted set-pieces and some truly unique scares. 

Credit must go to Dallamano for not simply falling into the trap of writing a rehash of The Exorcist. The director fills the film with religious iconography, tailored to the atmospheric Italian setting, as well as the use of flashbacks showing the dark history of the medallion. Thankfully instead of relying on dated make-up effects (like we see in so many possession features), The Night Child leaves the work to the stellar acting talents of child star, Nicoletta Elmi (Who Saw Her Die?), who dominates the screen as the possessed young Emily. There are some real moments of cool Italian charm here - you would never see Linda Blair's Regan MacNeil smoking a cigarette and giving her nanny an icy stare, like we see Elmi do in The Night Child.

Staples of the genre do feature, some handled with a campy charm - mainly a scene stealing turn from Lila Kedrova as a tarot-card obsessed confidant of Johnson's character.  For all the avid croquet fans reading (queue tumbleweed), you are unlikely to want to play by a cliffside after witnessing the fate of one of Emily's victims. This scene in-particular is one of the standouts of The Night Child, showing Emily's nanny sent tumbling down the cliff into a barren river is likely to send a shiver down your spine. Other moments, including one sequence which looks like an early version of The Omen glass sheet decapitation scene, helpfully remind us that The Night Child is a film way ahead of its time. 

Once again, this feature has been lovingly restored by Arrow Video, with stellar picture quality and an insightful  short documentary on the Italian possession film.

The Night Child is a stunning piece of Italian horror. Dallamano's visually rich direction and unique scares show that this is by no means a cheap imitation of The Exorcist - in my opinion it is equally as enjoyable.

Andrew McArthur 

★★★★☆

Stars: Richard Johnson, Nicoletta Elmi , Lisa Kedrova
Director: Massimo Dallamano
DVD Release: 25th October 2012
Certificate: 15 (UK)

Beast Of Southern Wild Review

Having spent the majority of 2012 hovering up accolades at numerous worldwide festivals, Beasts of the Southern Wild arrives in blighty to compete for yet another award at the London Film Festival (the Sutherland award for first feature) before its general release on Friday. Seen as one of the trending ‘green issue’ films when it premiered at Sundance in January, Benh Zeitlin’s is a startlingly assured debut and one that will mark him out for bigger projects and budgets.

His take on the environmental issue is not littered with numbers or facts choosing instead to go for the emotional jugular, hitting his mark with a near folkloric tale of 6 year-old Hushpuppy and her sick yet strong father Wink…yes the names are a bit much. The two live in ‘the bathtub’; a flood risk plain of the southern delta of America and home to a drinking rabble of idealists, drop-outs and elderly couples all instilled with a joire de vive that allows them to celebrate rather than fear their unusual homeland.

Zeitlin plunges us into the mud, dirt and maggots of the bathtub and all its creatures – human, farmyard and sea, unafraid of getting our fingers dirty. This living, breathing squalor lies alone, cut off from the mainland by a great barrier allowing Zeitlin to create an almost mythical community detached from the worries of ours and fill it instead with a world of magical realism and no little style.

Hushpuppy’s near Buddhist take on the Universe being a finely balanced place dependent on ‘everything fitting together jus right’ creates a heartbeat for the film – one made overt with the throbbing pulses of the many creatures held to Hushpuppy’s ear. It’s when a storm threatens to ruin her homeland for good that the earths impact starts to turn her zen like view into a tale of survival. The weather turns, water rises and Hushpuppy is quickly forced to make the most of the skills her ailing father has taught her. Brought with it are the beasts of the title; pre-historic giant boars set free from their ice-capped tombs and free to plunder all before them.

The inevitable backlash may already be underway – the vague, poetic one-line musing narration, elements of poverty porn and the music video qualities of the pre-credit sequence all feeling the ire of some but there is far too much wonder in the whole to focus on the minute. The sense of community in the bathtub may not ring particularly true but it’s one conjured up with real affection. Beautifully lit and photographed, this rough and ready backdrop becomes a character of its own as, aided by his own score, Zeitlin successfully creates a tone unseen in American cinema away from a Terrence Malick film.

Much of the plaudits are coming the way of 8 year old star Quavenzhane Wallis, with talk already turning to a possible Oscar nod – an understandable if slightly knee-jerk reaction to the capabilities of a minor holding her own in such an inventive film. Surely, however, much of the praise must be attributed to Zeitlin himself. He has crafted a visionary, rich and warm feature that belies his relative novice and, in the shadow of Katrina’s clouds, forced an issue as important as environmental concerns almost subliminally into screens around the globe.

Matthew Walsh

★★★★½

Rating: 12A
Release Date: 19th October 2012 (UK&Ireland)
Directed by: Benh Zeitlin
Cast: Quvenzhané Wallis, Dwight Henry, Levy Easterly

Park Row (Masters Of Cinema) DVD Review

Park Row is a key film in Samuel Fuller’s always captivating and idiosyncratic career. It’s always one of his very best up they’re with such classics as Shock Corridor, The Big Red One and The Naked Kiss. It’s one of his earliest films which was made after a succession of War films and a couple westerns such as his extremely successful The Steel Helmet and it’s companion film Fixed Bayonets! and the still radical interpretation of the Jesse James story I Shot Jesse James.

Sam said his favourite of all of films he made was Park Row. It was a passion project and a very nostalgic look at the time of headline grabbing journalism. Sam was a journalist himself in the 1920s and 1930s (a copyboy at the age of 12) till he joined the army during WW2. It was a truly independent film which Sam financed sorely by himself, it was roughly $200,000 + his $1000 fee which was for liquor and fine cigars. He was offered a big budget film, which Gregory Peck after the success of The Steel Helmet but turned it down in favour of his own project.

The film is set in 1886 and it’s about a reporter Phineas Mitchell (Gene Evans) who is fired from his job at newspaper The Star. He goes to a bar to drown his sorrows but a man called Steve Brodie rushes in claiming to have jumped off the Brooklyn Bridge. Phineas tells him he has lost his job. A friend of Phineas called Charles A. Leach (Forrest Taylor) also in the bar tells him his dreams of starting his own newspaper.

They decided to start the newspaper that night and Charles has the printing press, offices and money necessary to do so. They hire all their newspaper pals in the bar on the spot. A policeman comes into the bar to find Steve Brodie for jumping off the bridge and now they have a FRONT PAGE STORY for the first issue of their paper The Globe. The Globe becomes a sensation, which it’s headlines and it’s multiple daily copies with only the front page changed! Phineas’ ex boss (of newspaper The Star) the femme fatale like Charity Hackett (Mary Welch) is getting jealous of the success of the paper and her superior decide to kill The Globe with many tactics including stopping supplies of ink and paper and later violence.

The film has wonderful cast full of bit players who only got their due in this probably due to the film’s budgetary constraints. It’s was all filmed on one set for similar reasons. It’s wonderfully written almost screwbally at times which reminds me of the legendary script of His Girl Friday. However it’s not a comedy but more in the way of the dialogue in spoken, it’s stylistic. It is also a very contemporary film a way cause it’s partly about the corporate money coming into journalism, which diminished the type of journalism Fuller loved. It’s a remarkable 8 reeler, which should be rediscovered over and over again.

Ian Schultz 

★★★★★

Rating:12A
UK Re-Release Date: 22nd October 2012
Directed By: Samuel Fuller
Cast: Gene Evans, Mary Welch , Bela Kovacs
Buy:PARK ROW (Masters of Cinema) (DVD) [1952]

Monstro! DVD Review

Rarely do we get a chance to see shameless grind-house features hell bent on fast paced schlock and rip-roaring fun, and it’s on those grounds that Australian independent flick Monstro! delivers. Written and directed by Stuart Simpson and put together Guerrilla-style by a small crew of obviously dedicated individuals this is probably the underdog Indy cult event of the year.

              
Three deranged killers, Beretta, Blondie, and Snowball, hole up in a small beachside community after their murderous actions attract the wrong kind of attention. But not all is as it seems in this small town. A few of the locals try desperately to warn them of the dangers of going into the water but the crazy vixens listen to no one. However, their seaside frolic awakens a horrifying beast from the depths of the ocean and it isn’t long before the girls are hip-deep in trouble, facing the fight of their lives against the terrifying Kraken.

              

The story is put together with a loving knowledge of all things exploitation, think Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill! with Evil Dead gore and a monster reminiscent of Ray Harryhausen. It ventures back in time to explore what’s so wonderful about the female exploitation genre; proving we don’t need good girls, Hell we don’t even need bad girls, as long as they’re able to fight a sea monster they can make gripping viewing. The three vixens that parade the screen-time are endearing to watch, beautiful yet no-nonsense, OTT and bound together by a hatred of conventional life, rebels and patriots to their own dastardly cause. Simpson has done a great job of replicating a 60s and 70s-esque trio of terrible sirens, and the girls have done a great job at embodying them.

             
 For a film of its ilk, Monstro! is surprisingly well put together, the camera work and editing jump miles ahead of many other films with a significantly bigger budget, but that’s the brilliant thing about cult films, you can get away with some really outlandish finishing touches. Some scenes prove over-stylised, detracting from the flow of the narrative, but a sometimes brilliant (often cheesy) self-referential angle indulges the cult quality to the point of decadence. And there’s nothing more enjoyable than pure decadence, even if it sometimes strays the mark. The soundtrack too is perfect and strides hand-in-hand with the style of the film, a sexy sassy Tarantino sound that brings the film a classy aspect it does its utmost to dodge through visuals.

              
Sure, the film’s not perfect. This grindhouse feature loses itself at points through taking its foot off the peddle to expand a narrative that doesn’t really need too much depth. And sure there’s some hefty bits of overacting but that can be ignored when considered as part of a film whose sole purpose is to show off the reckless and outrageous charm of B-movies. Movies like this have to be gauged in terms of their niche

              
A film for cult fans made by cult fans; dripping with love, elbow-grease, sex-appeal, and gore. Exploitation at its filthy best and an impressive second feature-length film, Monstro! is a must in this year’s top B-movies for sheer balls and total immersion, extra credit is most definitely awarded for fantastic monster-effects. Besides it’s probably the best “Outlaw Babes vs. Sea Monster” flick you’ll see this year. Probably.

SCOTT CLARK

★★★★☆

UK Rating:18
DVD Release Date: 22nd October 2012
Director: Stuart Simpson
Cast: Norman Yemm, Nelli Scarlet, Kyrie Capri 
Buy:MONSTRO! (Monster Pictures) (DVD)

Win We Are The Night, Apartment 143 & Woman In Black Goodies

All this cool stuff could be yours!

Celebrate this Halloween with an amazing supply of horror goodies including three fantastic Momentum Pictures films: The Woman In Black, Apartment 143 and We are the Night!

You can watch all these great films complete with your own Woman in Black T-shirt, mug and torch (for when you're hiding under the covers!

We are the Night and Apartment 143 come to DVD from 15th October.

We Are The Night:When she unknowingly picks the pocket of a man one night on the streets of Berlin, small-time crook Lena attracts the unwanted attention of Inspector Tom Serner, a young police detective involved in ongoing investigations into Lena’s victim, a known Russian mobster. Although she manages to escape Tom’s clutches, Lena’s personal situation becomes even more complicated when she later visits an underground nightclub and meets Louise, the club’s owner and the leader of a trio of female vampires that also includes “young” party girl and DJ Nora and former 1920s silent film star Charlotte. Louise immediately falls in love with Lena and decides to transform her, introducing her to a glamorous existence of non-stop partying, fast cars, limitless night-time shopping sprees and eternal life. But it all comes at a price. As Lena struggles to come to terms with the endless killings and attempts to fend off Louise’s Sapphic advances, the bloodthirsty quartet’s murderous activities draw Tom and his police colleagues ever closer.

Apartment 143:Following the tragic death of his wife, Alan White and his two children find themselves plagued by a series of inexplicable events that eventually force them to leave their home and move into an apartment building in the city. Worryingly, within a week of moving, they once again begin to experience the strange phenomena that threaten to tear apart what is left of their family.Desperate for answers and, hopefully, a release from what he is beginning to believe is a haunting, Alan requests the help of a small team of parapsychologists experienced in investigating and explaining such incidents. Armed with an arsenal of state-of-the-art technology, the team members set up their equipment and begin a vigil during which they will attempt to solve the mystery. But what they uncover proves to be unlike anything they have ever encountered before.

Woman In Black:Based on the classic ghost story, THE WOMAN IN BLACK tells the tale of Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe), a lawyer who is forced to leave his young son and travel to a remote village to attend to the affairs of the recently deceased owner of Eel Marsh House.Working alone in the old mansion, Kipps begins to uncover the town’s tragic and tortured secrets and his fears escalate when he discovers that local children have been disappearing under mysterious circumstances. When those closest to him become threatened by the vengeful woman in black, Kipps must find a way to break the cycle of terror.
To win The Spooktastic prize please answer the following question:

Q.Recently The Woman In Black sequel was given its official title, what is that title?

a.The Woman In Black:Angel Of The North

b. The Woman In Black :Angel Of Death

c.The Woman In Black:Angel Of Doom

Deadline is 4th November 2012 (2359hrs), Must 15 years or older to enter
To enter send your answer, name, address, postcode only to winatcinehouseuk@gmail.com
Label emails 'We are the night'

Terms & Conditions:1.This prize is non transferable.No cash alternatives apply.UK & Irish entries only.2.The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse and Momentum Pictures have the right to alter, delay or cancel this competition without any notice3.The competition is not opened to employees, family, friends of The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse,Momentum Pictures employees 4.This competition is promoted on behalf of Momentum Pictures 5. If this prize becomes unavailable we have the right to offer an alternative prize instead 6.To enter this competition you must send in your answer, name, address only, Deadline November 4th, 2012 (2359hrs)7.Will only accept entries sent to the correct email (winatcinehouseuk@gmail.com), any other entry via any other email will be void.8.If the above form fails please send the information required from the form email it to winatcinehouseuk@gmail.com  (label we are the night) If any info required from the form is not sent in the email your entry will be void9.automated entries are not allowed and will be disqualified, which could result you been banned.10.The Peoples Movies, Cinehouse takes no responsibility for delayed, lost, stolen prizes 11.Prizes may take from days to a few months for delivery which is out of our control 12.The competition is opened to Aged 15  and over.13. Majority of the prizes on offer will come from representatives of the distributor, no The People’s Movies &Cinehouse, when we do have the prizes we will inform you.14. Unless Stated Please  Do Not Include Telephone Numbers, we don’t need them and if you include your telephone number Cinehouse and The People’s Movies are not responsible for the security of the number15.The winning entries will be picked at random and contacted by email or announced via facebook, sometimes we are unable to confirm winners.16.This competition is bound by the rules of Scotland,England & Wales, Northern Ireland, Ireland.17.By sending your entry for this competition you are confirming you have read and agreed to these Terms & Conditions.
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