Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Bill Ferris, Kevin M. Glover, Derek Houck, Rolland Kiroloss, Emily Marsh, Terry McCoy, Randy Raphael, Nicola Singer, and Scott Yarborough.
Written & Directed By: Aaron Mento
Review:
You should see this movie because it would take your mind on a journey that will remind you of the amazing movie "Memento". The writer and director Aaron Mento shot this movie on an Ipad 2 and all without even a tripod. You really feel for these characters and you want to the main character succeed. Mento is a film maker with passion and spirit. These are the two elements necessary for creating a movie like "Standards of Living". Do yourself a favor and watch this movie, it is available for streaming as well.
MMMMM
Cast: Bill Ferris, Kevin M. Glover, Derek Houck, Rolland Kiroloss, Emily Marsh, Terry McCoy, Randy Raphael, Nicola Singer, and Scott Yarborough.
Written & Directed By: Aaron Mento
Review:
You should see this movie because it would take your mind on a journey that will remind you of the amazing movie "Memento". The writer and director Aaron Mento shot this movie on an Ipad 2 and all without even a tripod. You really feel for these characters and you want to the main character succeed. Mento is a film maker with passion and spirit. These are the two elements necessary for creating a movie like "Standards of Living". Do yourself a favor and watch this movie, it is available for streaming as well.
Maven Scale:
M
Cast: Michael Cera, Juno Temple, Emily Browning, Catalina Sandino Moreno, and Augustin Silva
Review:
I watched the preview many times and my first reaction was that this was going to be a movie about a group of people driving Juno Temple's character (Alicia) to the brink of madness and then over the edge. I finally saw the movie and it wasn't what I expected. Alicia (Temple) seemed to be suffering from sleep deprivation which could put anyone in a state of haziness. As I was watching this I realized that the writer/director Sebastian Silva was trying to convey a hidden meaning behind the title. I really commend Silva on making it as abstract as he did, however, I was trying to see what really set Alicia (Temple) over the edge. It didn't seem like Alicia's friend Sara (Browning) was any help in the situation. Oh well, I believe that a second view is in order or not, quite frankly I didn't see what the director was trying to convey, overall it spiraled me all over the place, which isn't necessarily a good thing.
M
Cast: Michael Cera, Juno Temple, Emily Browning, Catalina Sandino Moreno, and Augustin Silva
Review:
I watched the preview many times and my first reaction was that this was going to be a movie about a group of people driving Juno Temple's character (Alicia) to the brink of madness and then over the edge. I finally saw the movie and it wasn't what I expected. Alicia (Temple) seemed to be suffering from sleep deprivation which could put anyone in a state of haziness. As I was watching this I realized that the writer/director Sebastian Silva was trying to convey a hidden meaning behind the title. I really commend Silva on making it as abstract as he did, however, I was trying to see what really set Alicia (Temple) over the edge. It didn't seem like Alicia's friend Sara (Browning) was any help in the situation. Oh well, I believe that a second view is in order or not, quite frankly I didn't see what the director was trying to convey, overall it spiraled me all over the place, which isn't necessarily a good thing.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Bill Pullman, Cathy Tyson, Zakes Mokae, and Paul Winfield
Directed By: Wes Craven
Review: What can I say about a movie that made me jump out of my skin and never say that I didn't believe in Voodoo or any type of magic. Pullman's character goes to Haiti and upsets a few folks that he really shouldn't have and gets royally mind screwed by the locals. This movie had so much darkness and was well done. Craven has such an incredible way of making your skin crawl from start to finish. The tagline, "Don't bury me, I'm not dead" is still a phenomenal sentence and even if you haven't seen it in a while, you would know what movie was being discussed. I highly recommend you see this if you haven't and relive it if you already have.
MMMMM
Cast: Bill Pullman, Cathy Tyson, Zakes Mokae, and Paul Winfield
Directed By: Wes Craven
Review: What can I say about a movie that made me jump out of my skin and never say that I didn't believe in Voodoo or any type of magic. Pullman's character goes to Haiti and upsets a few folks that he really shouldn't have and gets royally mind screwed by the locals. This movie had so much darkness and was well done. Craven has such an incredible way of making your skin crawl from start to finish. The tagline, "Don't bury me, I'm not dead" is still a phenomenal sentence and even if you haven't seen it in a while, you would know what movie was being discussed. I highly recommend you see this if you haven't and relive it if you already have.
Maven Scale:
MM
Cast: Samantha Robson, Ivar Brogger, Ron Harper, Ben Messmer, Amy Lyndon, Bobbi Sue Luther, Stacy Chbosky, and Scott Beeher
Review: I watched this movie a while back and I am just getting to writing a review because I quite honestly didn't know what to say, or even if I should have written a review. I didn't mentally finish this movie. When I say that I didn't mentally finish this movie, I mean that "The Poughkeepsie Tapes" kept running and my mind just shut down. I'm not a big fan of the snuff feeling types of movies. Seeing people, women especially, getting tortured and brutalized is not my idea of a good time. Of course this is only a movie, however it had the feel of something more sinister than any of us could possibly imagine. For the sake of being a movie critic, it is my job to watch movies and even some that may leave a huge question mark on my cerebellum in the end.
The movie starts off with the killer dragging a body out of a car into the woods and the shakiness of the camera as well as the grainy quality just adds to the mystery of what happened to the victim and what's getting ready to happen. The Premise for the movie did lure me in and the fact that I couldn't find this movie anywhere else, not even on Netflix, peeked my interest even more. Well, I got what asked for everyone and I really wish I could rewind time and not see this, but I can't. The rating is a 2 out of 5 M's because it honestly made no sense to me. I don't remember any very important plot points, significant quotes, or a character that stood out from all the rest. I just remember the uncomfortable feeling that I got from watching this. I'm not saying that it's garbage, nor am I saying that it should have never been made, all I am saying is that "The Poughkeepsie Tapes" is not a film I wish to have on my shelf, and it certainly is not a film for every body.
MM
Cast: Samantha Robson, Ivar Brogger, Ron Harper, Ben Messmer, Amy Lyndon, Bobbi Sue Luther, Stacy Chbosky, and Scott Beeher
Review: I watched this movie a while back and I am just getting to writing a review because I quite honestly didn't know what to say, or even if I should have written a review. I didn't mentally finish this movie. When I say that I didn't mentally finish this movie, I mean that "The Poughkeepsie Tapes" kept running and my mind just shut down. I'm not a big fan of the snuff feeling types of movies. Seeing people, women especially, getting tortured and brutalized is not my idea of a good time. Of course this is only a movie, however it had the feel of something more sinister than any of us could possibly imagine. For the sake of being a movie critic, it is my job to watch movies and even some that may leave a huge question mark on my cerebellum in the end.
The movie starts off with the killer dragging a body out of a car into the woods and the shakiness of the camera as well as the grainy quality just adds to the mystery of what happened to the victim and what's getting ready to happen. The Premise for the movie did lure me in and the fact that I couldn't find this movie anywhere else, not even on Netflix, peeked my interest even more. Well, I got what asked for everyone and I really wish I could rewind time and not see this, but I can't. The rating is a 2 out of 5 M's because it honestly made no sense to me. I don't remember any very important plot points, significant quotes, or a character that stood out from all the rest. I just remember the uncomfortable feeling that I got from watching this. I'm not saying that it's garbage, nor am I saying that it should have never been made, all I am saying is that "The Poughkeepsie Tapes" is not a film I wish to have on my shelf, and it certainly is not a film for every body.
Maven Scale:
MMMM
Cast: Danielle Harris, Kane Hodder, Zach Galligan, Caroline Williams, Parry Shen, Robert Diago DoQui, and Derek Mears
Writer/Director: Adam Green
Review: This movie gives all the gore and so much more. I thought that the the first two "Hatchet" movies were bloody good, but this one takes it to a whole new level. Adam Green serves up another tale of Victor "The Bayou Butcher" Crowley and to every horror fans delight, Green brings the gruesome and it is so much fun to watch. Danielle Harris (Marybeth) is the sole survivor of the Honey Island Swamp massacre and she shows up at the police station where she meets Zach Galligan (Sheriff Fowler) and many other officers who have the suspicion that she committed those heinous crimes. How could someone who is as light as a feather hang all the bodies up all over Honey Island? That was one of the comedic moments in the movie. I am not going to spoil it for the rest of the viewing public so I won't go into too much detail, however I will say that "Hatchet III" takes you on the biggest thrill ride without leaving your living room. I am always excited to see what treats Adam Green has in store for us. The movie also has the wonder Derek Mears, Sid Haig who has a funny dialogue scene with Robert Diago DoQui (Deputy Winslow), and Caroline Williams, who was also the DJ Stretch in "Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2". This movie gets 4 out of 5 M's because it's innovative and the kills are creative. Bravo Adam Green for keeping gore fresh.
MMMM
Cast: Danielle Harris, Kane Hodder, Zach Galligan, Caroline Williams, Parry Shen, Robert Diago DoQui, and Derek Mears
Writer/Director: Adam Green
Review: This movie gives all the gore and so much more. I thought that the the first two "Hatchet" movies were bloody good, but this one takes it to a whole new level. Adam Green serves up another tale of Victor "The Bayou Butcher" Crowley and to every horror fans delight, Green brings the gruesome and it is so much fun to watch. Danielle Harris (Marybeth) is the sole survivor of the Honey Island Swamp massacre and she shows up at the police station where she meets Zach Galligan (Sheriff Fowler) and many other officers who have the suspicion that she committed those heinous crimes. How could someone who is as light as a feather hang all the bodies up all over Honey Island? That was one of the comedic moments in the movie. I am not going to spoil it for the rest of the viewing public so I won't go into too much detail, however I will say that "Hatchet III" takes you on the biggest thrill ride without leaving your living room. I am always excited to see what treats Adam Green has in store for us. The movie also has the wonder Derek Mears, Sid Haig who has a funny dialogue scene with Robert Diago DoQui (Deputy Winslow), and Caroline Williams, who was also the DJ Stretch in "Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2". This movie gets 4 out of 5 M's because it's innovative and the kills are creative. Bravo Adam Green for keeping gore fresh.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Jude Law, Rooney Mara, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Channing Tatum
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Writer: Scott Z. Burns
Review: This mind-bending drama starts with Emily (Mara) and Martin (Tatum) reuniting after Martin has been incarcerated for bad business practices. The relationship between Emily and Martin seems a bit strained and its a palpable feeling as well. From the first love scene to the party scene it was evident that Emily had something weighing heavy on her mind; it was something that her own husband Martin couldn't fix. Finally, Emily does the unthinkable to herself and finds herself in the hospital where she meets Dr. Banks (Law) and he prescribes her a medication that Dr. Siebert (Jones) even endorses. Without going in too much detail to those who have not seen it, and because I don't want to spoil it for anyone, I will say that after Emily takes the medication "Ablixa" and this is when her life falls fast down the rabbit hole, with a twist that Hitchcock would be proud of. Director Soderbergh and writer Burns are the dynamic duo of this flawless flick. It moves at a pace that has every scene getting to the point and just when you have found your comfort zone, it switches gears again. It is a side of Zeta-Jones that I certainly haven't seen before and it was a refreshing change as well. After I saw the trailer and noticed that Rooney Mara was in this I new that she was someone who could pull off a role so daring. The casting director needs to be given a bonus by how well the actors/actresses were perfectly picked for the roles. I wouldn't change a thing about this movie. I gave it 5 out of 5 M's because it is a smart and savvy thriller.
MMMMM
Cast: Jude Law, Rooney Mara, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Channing Tatum
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Writer: Scott Z. Burns
Review: This mind-bending drama starts with Emily (Mara) and Martin (Tatum) reuniting after Martin has been incarcerated for bad business practices. The relationship between Emily and Martin seems a bit strained and its a palpable feeling as well. From the first love scene to the party scene it was evident that Emily had something weighing heavy on her mind; it was something that her own husband Martin couldn't fix. Finally, Emily does the unthinkable to herself and finds herself in the hospital where she meets Dr. Banks (Law) and he prescribes her a medication that Dr. Siebert (Jones) even endorses. Without going in too much detail to those who have not seen it, and because I don't want to spoil it for anyone, I will say that after Emily takes the medication "Ablixa" and this is when her life falls fast down the rabbit hole, with a twist that Hitchcock would be proud of. Director Soderbergh and writer Burns are the dynamic duo of this flawless flick. It moves at a pace that has every scene getting to the point and just when you have found your comfort zone, it switches gears again. It is a side of Zeta-Jones that I certainly haven't seen before and it was a refreshing change as well. After I saw the trailer and noticed that Rooney Mara was in this I new that she was someone who could pull off a role so daring. The casting director needs to be given a bonus by how well the actors/actresses were perfectly picked for the roles. I wouldn't change a thing about this movie. I gave it 5 out of 5 M's because it is a smart and savvy thriller.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Bill Blakemore, Geoffrey Cocks, Juli Kearns, and John Fell Ryan
Writer: Rodney Ascher
Director: Rodney Ascher
This movie took my brain out of my skull and reconfigured it. I have never been this blown away by a documentary before as I was with this one. Writer and director Rodney Ascher took “The Shining” to another level that none of us could have ever imagined. I remember seeing “The Shining” a long time ago and what Ascher did with “Room 237” was phenomenal. Ascher took every aspect of the movie and revealed to us all that it was more than just a movie. There were so many twists and turns that I thought I wasn’t going to be able to keep up, but it was shot and edited in such a way that it was so easy to stay on path. This was a lover letter to “The Shining” and to Kubrick as well for the subtleties that he has been known to place into his movies.
The movie starts off when a scene from “Eyes Wide Shut” where we see Tom Cruise at a movie theater buying a ticket. The voice over comes in and he describes him first time seeing “The Shining” and how his girlfriend wanted to go and see this movie with her. He wasn’t too particular about movies like, “The Shining”, however, after seeing this movie, he was hooked and really enjoyed it. There were many interpretations about “The Shining” in “Room 237” which gave me the feeling of being in a lecture hall, with a panel of amazing movie historians, directors and movie enthusiasts and I was lucky enough to be a part of a grand discussion. The little surprises like the airbrushing of Kubrick’s face in the clouds at the opening credits as well as many others is what the viewer will find with “Room 237”. Also the stickers on Danny’s door were explained as well.
Another eye-opening aspect I would like to point out to the reader is the way the narrators also discuss the way the opening shot is in a dynamic sweeping motion
that almost makes the viewer feel like they are flying. When I first saw this, many years ago, I did have the feeling of taking flight, but the way it was described gave me another way of viewing it. Even the music to the opening credits was also described. This is my kind of movie, because it drives to me to want to see more Kubrick films and look at them with an eagle eye. If you enjoy documentaries then you must check yourself in to "Room 237".
MMMMM
Cast: Bill Blakemore, Geoffrey Cocks, Juli Kearns, and John Fell Ryan
Writer: Rodney Ascher
Director: Rodney Ascher
This movie took my brain out of my skull and reconfigured it. I have never been this blown away by a documentary before as I was with this one. Writer and director Rodney Ascher took “The Shining” to another level that none of us could have ever imagined. I remember seeing “The Shining” a long time ago and what Ascher did with “Room 237” was phenomenal. Ascher took every aspect of the movie and revealed to us all that it was more than just a movie. There were so many twists and turns that I thought I wasn’t going to be able to keep up, but it was shot and edited in such a way that it was so easy to stay on path. This was a lover letter to “The Shining” and to Kubrick as well for the subtleties that he has been known to place into his movies.
The movie starts off when a scene from “Eyes Wide Shut” where we see Tom Cruise at a movie theater buying a ticket. The voice over comes in and he describes him first time seeing “The Shining” and how his girlfriend wanted to go and see this movie with her. He wasn’t too particular about movies like, “The Shining”, however, after seeing this movie, he was hooked and really enjoyed it. There were many interpretations about “The Shining” in “Room 237” which gave me the feeling of being in a lecture hall, with a panel of amazing movie historians, directors and movie enthusiasts and I was lucky enough to be a part of a grand discussion. The little surprises like the airbrushing of Kubrick’s face in the clouds at the opening credits as well as many others is what the viewer will find with “Room 237”. Also the stickers on Danny’s door were explained as well.
Another eye-opening aspect I would like to point out to the reader is the way the narrators also discuss the way the opening shot is in a dynamic sweeping motion
that almost makes the viewer feel like they are flying. When I first saw this, many years ago, I did have the feeling of taking flight, but the way it was described gave me another way of viewing it. Even the music to the opening credits was also described. This is my kind of movie, because it drives to me to want to see more Kubrick films and look at them with an eagle eye. If you enjoy documentaries then you must check yourself in to "Room 237".
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Daniella Kertesz, James Badge Dale, Matthew Fox, Fana Mokoena, and David Morse
Director: Marc Forster
Writers: Matthew Michael Carnahan & Drew Goddard
If there was any kind of movie that had you take a long look at the state of the world and the human condition, then “World War Z” would be it. What would happen if the CDC or the W.H.O had a virus so deadly and so contagious that it turned us all into walkers? Hey, you never know. The opening montage has news clips of actual events that took place in the news from all over the world. There was even footage of a man attacking another man and eating his face off under a bridge. I am sure all of you do remember that incident that happened in Miami on the MacArthur Causeway. Well, that was also in the footage as well. I honestly was drawn into this movie from the jump because I never saw what was chasing people. I never saw the face of evil. This lured me in further. Why would the director add a montage like the one in this movie? I believe that it was because he wanted to ask a question about what would happen if an outbreak were to take place and what would be the cause? This is also the question of many types of zombie movies.
With the word zombie or walkers being bounced around from pillar to post, there are many types of ways that the undead can be written. The zombies in “World War Z” were a different species. They changed in very little span of time, they were incredibly fast and they even had some sense about them. I don’t want to give too much away, but I will say that there is a certain point in the movie where you would certainly scratch your head in wonder. I really enjoyed Brad Pitt’s
character in this one because he never gave up hope and certainly stopped at nothing to find out what was going on with the world. It’s a definitely a heart
pounding thriller that would have you on the edge of your seat and screaming at the screen. I enjoyed the special effects and all the fuss about it being too
CGI heavy really didn’t get in the way of the story line. There were some shocking moments in "World War Z", however, it wasn't a very scary movie for the reasons that you would believe. The frightening parts were the numbers of cities, states and countries that were dropping in population by the millions, and the agility of the zombies. This movie doesn't make the viewer wait for a scare or a "BOO!!!" moment, it takes off running right from the start. Enjoy the ride everyone.
MMMMM
Cast: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Daniella Kertesz, James Badge Dale, Matthew Fox, Fana Mokoena, and David Morse
Director: Marc Forster
Writers: Matthew Michael Carnahan & Drew Goddard
If there was any kind of movie that had you take a long look at the state of the world and the human condition, then “World War Z” would be it. What would happen if the CDC or the W.H.O had a virus so deadly and so contagious that it turned us all into walkers? Hey, you never know. The opening montage has news clips of actual events that took place in the news from all over the world. There was even footage of a man attacking another man and eating his face off under a bridge. I am sure all of you do remember that incident that happened in Miami on the MacArthur Causeway. Well, that was also in the footage as well. I honestly was drawn into this movie from the jump because I never saw what was chasing people. I never saw the face of evil. This lured me in further. Why would the director add a montage like the one in this movie? I believe that it was because he wanted to ask a question about what would happen if an outbreak were to take place and what would be the cause? This is also the question of many types of zombie movies.
With the word zombie or walkers being bounced around from pillar to post, there are many types of ways that the undead can be written. The zombies in “World War Z” were a different species. They changed in very little span of time, they were incredibly fast and they even had some sense about them. I don’t want to give too much away, but I will say that there is a certain point in the movie where you would certainly scratch your head in wonder. I really enjoyed Brad Pitt’s
character in this one because he never gave up hope and certainly stopped at nothing to find out what was going on with the world. It’s a definitely a heart
pounding thriller that would have you on the edge of your seat and screaming at the screen. I enjoyed the special effects and all the fuss about it being too
CGI heavy really didn’t get in the way of the story line. There were some shocking moments in "World War Z", however, it wasn't a very scary movie for the reasons that you would believe. The frightening parts were the numbers of cities, states and countries that were dropping in population by the millions, and the agility of the zombies. This movie doesn't make the viewer wait for a scare or a "BOO!!!" moment, it takes off running right from the start. Enjoy the ride everyone.
Maven Scale:
MMMM
Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Caviezel, Faran Tahir, Amy Ryan, Sam Neill, Vincent D'Onofrio, Vinnie Jones, and Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson.
Director: Mikael Hafstrom,
Writers: Miles Chapman & Jason Keller
You've seen some stories on the news about prison or jail breaks and wondered just how it's possible for the inmates to escape. Well, I have seen the news stories, however, never thought about how most facilities beef up their security. Do they have meetings about making a prison more secure? Do they have a suggestion box? This is what director Mikael Hafstrom and writers
Miles Chapman and Jason Keller explore in the new action flick "Escape Plan". It was written in a way that the viewer could understand every aspect of the plan
and follow the characters all around the maze. It was fascinating seeing the intricacies into how Ray Breslin (Stallone) would find loop holes and cracks in a prison's foundation which would ultimately give inmates an opportunity to break out of its walls. Lock up after lock up and cell after cell, Breslin (Stallone) Houdini's his way out, making the warden's sweat and scratch their heads in dsbelief. "Escape Plan" is one of those movies that is like a mental rubix cube. Just when you've gotten one side fully complete, you realize that there are many other twists that have yet to be discovered. I absolutely loved the team work and brotherly love between both Breslin (Stallone) and Rottmayer (Schwarzenegger). The viewer could actually feel that they enjoy working together. Another surprise was seeing Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson playing the role of "Hush", the tech guy. I highly recommend this movie.
MMMM
Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jim Caviezel, Faran Tahir, Amy Ryan, Sam Neill, Vincent D'Onofrio, Vinnie Jones, and Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson.
Director: Mikael Hafstrom,
Writers: Miles Chapman & Jason Keller
You've seen some stories on the news about prison or jail breaks and wondered just how it's possible for the inmates to escape. Well, I have seen the news stories, however, never thought about how most facilities beef up their security. Do they have meetings about making a prison more secure? Do they have a suggestion box? This is what director Mikael Hafstrom and writers
Miles Chapman and Jason Keller explore in the new action flick "Escape Plan". It was written in a way that the viewer could understand every aspect of the plan
and follow the characters all around the maze. It was fascinating seeing the intricacies into how Ray Breslin (Stallone) would find loop holes and cracks in a prison's foundation which would ultimately give inmates an opportunity to break out of its walls. Lock up after lock up and cell after cell, Breslin (Stallone) Houdini's his way out, making the warden's sweat and scratch their heads in dsbelief. "Escape Plan" is one of those movies that is like a mental rubix cube. Just when you've gotten one side fully complete, you realize that there are many other twists that have yet to be discovered. I absolutely loved the team work and brotherly love between both Breslin (Stallone) and Rottmayer (Schwarzenegger). The viewer could actually feel that they enjoy working together. Another surprise was seeing Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson playing the role of "Hush", the tech guy. I highly recommend this movie.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Chantal Lewis, David Lago, Stuart G. Bennett, Adrian Lee, Elisabeth Fies, and Cindy Baer
Director: Elisabeth Fies
Writer: Elisabeth Fies
When I hear the word commune, I think of having a sense of community and peace. The way Elisabeth Fies (@kidsis) writes about it in her movie, "The Commune", she paints a different kind of picture of the term. There is nothing better than a new set of indie eyes on a word like commune. Elisabeth Fies is the writer, director, and producer of this mind melting movie. The more I learned about Elisabeth, the more I wanted to see the movie. She has an amazing personality and is an all around great person. "The Commune" won for Best International Picture at the Bram Stoker Festival and countless other awards and I can see why.
For Fies, "The Commune" may be her first feature, however, it's one that will be burned into your memory after the credits stopped rolling. The movie has a complete 70's feel with a Hitchcockian feel. Jenny Cross (Chantal) spends time with her dad, played by Stuart G. Bennett on a commune that feels more like a cult than anything else. There are so many variations and shades of Greek Mythology as well as the classic movie "Wicker Man". Fies takes you on a journey through the maze that Chantal (Cross) takes which is a weird and trippy one through patchouli, incense, peppermints, terrifying rituals, creepy beliefs, and strange vibes, but what a ride. It's different and that is what makes it special and unique. It is much more than a coming of age tale. I am giving this 5 out of 5 M's for being such an original premise and for Fies being the daring filmmaker. I enjoy originality and she certainly delivers.
MMMMM
Cast: Chantal Lewis, David Lago, Stuart G. Bennett, Adrian Lee, Elisabeth Fies, and Cindy Baer
Director: Elisabeth Fies
Writer: Elisabeth Fies
When I hear the word commune, I think of having a sense of community and peace. The way Elisabeth Fies (@kidsis) writes about it in her movie, "The Commune", she paints a different kind of picture of the term. There is nothing better than a new set of indie eyes on a word like commune. Elisabeth Fies is the writer, director, and producer of this mind melting movie. The more I learned about Elisabeth, the more I wanted to see the movie. She has an amazing personality and is an all around great person. "The Commune" won for Best International Picture at the Bram Stoker Festival and countless other awards and I can see why.
For Fies, "The Commune" may be her first feature, however, it's one that will be burned into your memory after the credits stopped rolling. The movie has a complete 70's feel with a Hitchcockian feel. Jenny Cross (Chantal) spends time with her dad, played by Stuart G. Bennett on a commune that feels more like a cult than anything else. There are so many variations and shades of Greek Mythology as well as the classic movie "Wicker Man". Fies takes you on a journey through the maze that Chantal (Cross) takes which is a weird and trippy one through patchouli, incense, peppermints, terrifying rituals, creepy beliefs, and strange vibes, but what a ride. It's different and that is what makes it special and unique. It is much more than a coming of age tale. I am giving this 5 out of 5 M's for being such an original premise and for Fies being the daring filmmaker. I enjoy originality and she certainly delivers.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Elijah Wood, Nora Arnezeder, America Olivo, and Liane Balaban
Director: Frank Khalifoun
Writers: Alexandre Aja and Gregory Levasseur
Frodo has finally come out of his shell and is showing us some of his serious acting chops. I have never seen such a performance from Elijah Wood as what he portrayed in "Maniac". This is an effective and well done remake of the 80's classic cult film. The way the filter of the camera showed a hazy view into the mind of Wood's character. It really had moments where I literally had no words to speak and no air to breathe because I was on the edge of my seat. Once the viewer sees the background of Frank (Wood) then they can pinpoint many instances of how Frank's mind had been warped and filled with such trauma that it turns him into something dark and sinister. Elijah Wood is wonderful and the scenes shot from the POV of the killer is genius. It is a tour de force performance from Wood, chills in every scene, and even the score is effective. What more could one ask for? I also am a fan of Alexandre Aja and his work. I am giving this 5 out of 5 on the Maven Scale because it is the type of film that sticks with you and clings to you after the names of the cast and crew has rolled through. Bravo.
MMMMM
Cast: Elijah Wood, Nora Arnezeder, America Olivo, and Liane Balaban
Director: Frank Khalifoun
Writers: Alexandre Aja and Gregory Levasseur
Frodo has finally come out of his shell and is showing us some of his serious acting chops. I have never seen such a performance from Elijah Wood as what he portrayed in "Maniac". This is an effective and well done remake of the 80's classic cult film. The way the filter of the camera showed a hazy view into the mind of Wood's character. It really had moments where I literally had no words to speak and no air to breathe because I was on the edge of my seat. Once the viewer sees the background of Frank (Wood) then they can pinpoint many instances of how Frank's mind had been warped and filled with such trauma that it turns him into something dark and sinister. Elijah Wood is wonderful and the scenes shot from the POV of the killer is genius. It is a tour de force performance from Wood, chills in every scene, and even the score is effective. What more could one ask for? I also am a fan of Alexandre Aja and his work. I am giving this 5 out of 5 on the Maven Scale because it is the type of film that sticks with you and clings to you after the names of the cast and crew has rolled through. Bravo.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Claudine Auger, Luigi Pistilli, Claudio Camaso, and Anna Maria Rosati
Writer/Director: Mario Bava
This is exactly the reason, well one of the many reasons, why I adore Italian horror and the directors/writers who make it happen. This was my first time seeing "Bay of Blood" or "Twitch of the Death Nerve" and I was amazed by the gore and the way every scene was shot. Mario Bava is one of my favorite directors so I knew that it was something I would enjoy. The opening scene was the first shocking moment of many more to come. It started off so innocent with a woman in her wheelchair scooting across the floor and then there was a rope involved and that's all I am going to say about it because I don't want to spoil it for those who have not yet experienced the terror. It is certainly a movie that should not be missed by any Italian horror movie fan or any horror fan. The Italian horror movies back then even showed blood differently giving it almost a brighter glowing hue. I gave it a 5 out of 5 on the Maven Scale because it was full of the shock and awe moments that I enjoy about Bava.
MMMMM
Cast: Claudine Auger, Luigi Pistilli, Claudio Camaso, and Anna Maria Rosati
Writer/Director: Mario Bava
This is exactly the reason, well one of the many reasons, why I adore Italian horror and the directors/writers who make it happen. This was my first time seeing "Bay of Blood" or "Twitch of the Death Nerve" and I was amazed by the gore and the way every scene was shot. Mario Bava is one of my favorite directors so I knew that it was something I would enjoy. The opening scene was the first shocking moment of many more to come. It started off so innocent with a woman in her wheelchair scooting across the floor and then there was a rope involved and that's all I am going to say about it because I don't want to spoil it for those who have not yet experienced the terror. It is certainly a movie that should not be missed by any Italian horror movie fan or any horror fan. The Italian horror movies back then even showed blood differently giving it almost a brighter glowing hue. I gave it a 5 out of 5 on the Maven Scale because it was full of the shock and awe moments that I enjoy about Bava.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto and Steve Zahn
Director: Jean-Marc Vallee
Writers: Craig Borten & Melisa Wallack
I have not seen this movie. I have only seen the trailer and read the stories about it. I have done all of the research about the man behind this incredible true story of doing what's right for the good of others. It brings tears to my eyes when I think about Ron Woodruff and how he sacrificed and struggled to make sure that those who needed medications surely had them. I had to step away from the computer before writing this review because I am feeling a flood of emotions that I have never felt before for a movie that I have yet to see. This is why some movies are more than movies, they are experiences. When Woodruff was first diagnosed with HIV his doctors denied giving him AZT, which is the medication that helps to treat those who are positive. Driven by the will to fight, he started bringing AIDS treatments and medication to those who could not afford them. Woodruff had to put his own personal feelings about the LGBT community aside and realized that there were no labels, just human beings trying to live a life that is fruitful and full of possibilities, just like he was trying to do. Woodruff had a big heart and turned no one away when they needed his help with getting the medication they needed. Looking at the trailer and seeing the performances from McConaughey and Leto and what they did to transform themselves into the roles that they were playing shows me that they are true masters of their craft. Say what you will about Matthew McConaughey, the fact of the matter is that he has truly no problem going for roles that pushes him to the limit and the same goes for Jared Leto as well as Christian Bale when he lost so much weight for his movie "The Machinist". No, I have not seen "The Dallas Buyers Club", but I know quality when I see it and this movie has heart, compassion and soul and I will not miss this one.
MMMMM
Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto and Steve Zahn
Director: Jean-Marc Vallee
Writers: Craig Borten & Melisa Wallack
I have not seen this movie. I have only seen the trailer and read the stories about it. I have done all of the research about the man behind this incredible true story of doing what's right for the good of others. It brings tears to my eyes when I think about Ron Woodruff and how he sacrificed and struggled to make sure that those who needed medications surely had them. I had to step away from the computer before writing this review because I am feeling a flood of emotions that I have never felt before for a movie that I have yet to see. This is why some movies are more than movies, they are experiences. When Woodruff was first diagnosed with HIV his doctors denied giving him AZT, which is the medication that helps to treat those who are positive. Driven by the will to fight, he started bringing AIDS treatments and medication to those who could not afford them. Woodruff had to put his own personal feelings about the LGBT community aside and realized that there were no labels, just human beings trying to live a life that is fruitful and full of possibilities, just like he was trying to do. Woodruff had a big heart and turned no one away when they needed his help with getting the medication they needed. Looking at the trailer and seeing the performances from McConaughey and Leto and what they did to transform themselves into the roles that they were playing shows me that they are true masters of their craft. Say what you will about Matthew McConaughey, the fact of the matter is that he has truly no problem going for roles that pushes him to the limit and the same goes for Jared Leto as well as Christian Bale when he lost so much weight for his movie "The Machinist". No, I have not seen "The Dallas Buyers Club", but I know quality when I see it and this movie has heart, compassion and soul and I will not miss this one.
"The Bad Seed" (1956)
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Nancy Kelly, Patty McCormack, Henry Jones, and Eileen Heckart
This movie blew me away. I learned that AMC's Fearfest is not the only ticket in town for fights during the Halloween season, you can also find the chills on Turner Classic Movies (TCM). Where do I start with this amazingly perfect movie that is filled with intrigue, drama, shocks and surprises for all. It all starts innocently enough with a family sending the father off to DC for business and in comes Rhoda (Patty McCormack) in her pigtails skipping in and making little tapping noises with her shoes. As soon as Rhoda (McCormack) opens her mouth to speak I begin to realize that she is not an ordinary little girl. If my daughter talked like that I would surely have some questions as to what she is up to. The next thing the viewer sees is Rhoda losing all of her marbles because of a penmanship medal so she ends up taking matters into her own hands. The riveting performances by Nancy Kelly as Christina Penmark and Eileen Heckart as Hortense Daigle, the mother of the boy that Rhoda had a run in with over the penmanship medal really stole the whole show. I hadn't paid much attention to Turner Classic Movies in the past, but my eyes are completely open now. "The Bad Seed" started as a Broadway play and parts of the cast were also in the movie as well, which proved to be an easy transition. I'm surely going to watch this movie again strictly for the dynamic acting frame by frame and scene by scene.
Maven Scale:
MMMMM
Cast: Nancy Kelly, Patty McCormack, Henry Jones, and Eileen Heckart
This movie blew me away. I learned that AMC's Fearfest is not the only ticket in town for fights during the Halloween season, you can also find the chills on Turner Classic Movies (TCM). Where do I start with this amazingly perfect movie that is filled with intrigue, drama, shocks and surprises for all. It all starts innocently enough with a family sending the father off to DC for business and in comes Rhoda (Patty McCormack) in her pigtails skipping in and making little tapping noises with her shoes. As soon as Rhoda (McCormack) opens her mouth to speak I begin to realize that she is not an ordinary little girl. If my daughter talked like that I would surely have some questions as to what she is up to. The next thing the viewer sees is Rhoda losing all of her marbles because of a penmanship medal so she ends up taking matters into her own hands. The riveting performances by Nancy Kelly as Christina Penmark and Eileen Heckart as Hortense Daigle, the mother of the boy that Rhoda had a run in with over the penmanship medal really stole the whole show. I hadn't paid much attention to Turner Classic Movies in the past, but my eyes are completely open now. "The Bad Seed" started as a Broadway play and parts of the cast were also in the movie as well, which proved to be an easy transition. I'm surely going to watch this movie again strictly for the dynamic acting frame by frame and scene by scene.
"The Lords of Salem"
MMM
Tagline: "We've been waiting...we've always been waiting"
Cast: Sheri Moon Zombie, Meg Foster, Bruce Davison, Jeff Daniel Phillips, Patricia Quinn, Ken Foree, Dee Wallace, and Maria Conchita Alonso
Folks on Twitter and Instagram have been feeling a bit of mixed emotions when it comes to this movie. The movie was in my Netflix queue and it was waiting to find a home in my DVD player. I wasn't sure what to expect, and then I pressed play. Of course I was excited to see my girl crush, Sheri Moon Zombie (Heidi Hawthorn) In the first frame. She had the same hair do in this one that she did in "The Toolbox Murders" and as always, she does a wonderful job with her character. The mood in the movie was very dark and in the familiar Zombie fashion, the imagery was both visceral and alarming. I enjoyed Meg Foster (Margaret Morgan) and her opening speech. Foster's voice rattled my senses and had me in a hypnotic state. I couldn't look away. Since there are no spoilers here I will not go into too much detail. However, I will say that this isn't a movie for everyone. It's an abstract painting of the "Salem Witch Trials". The trance song that had the women zoning out was also very effective as well. While it had so many amazing and palatable moments, there were some head scratching maybe I need to watch this again moments.
All of the strange begins when Moon Zombie (Hawthorne) receives a strange package at her radio station. Inside the box there is a record with an eerie symbol on it. When the record is played it sends Moon Zombie (Hawthorne) to another place. The music even had me in a weird place for a while after the credits rolled.
One of my favorite moments was seeing Patricia Quinn on the big screen again. For those of you who don't know who she is, I have to say how dare you. Patricia Quinn played Magenta in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and was electric. Now Ms. Quinn plays a palm reader in this flick. It's quite refreshing to have directors like Zombie bringing actors and actresses back to the big screen. The cast was well put together and the premise was all there, it's just in parts and we as viewers of this movie have to, at times, put it together and come up with our own conclusion. I give this movie a 3 out of 5 because it had elements that were striking and jaw dropping and some elements were a bit confusing too and I can't lie about that people. There is no sugar coating here, the Maven is all about honesty. So check out the movie and let me know what you think.
MMM
Tagline: "We've been waiting...we've always been waiting"
Cast: Sheri Moon Zombie, Meg Foster, Bruce Davison, Jeff Daniel Phillips, Patricia Quinn, Ken Foree, Dee Wallace, and Maria Conchita Alonso
Folks on Twitter and Instagram have been feeling a bit of mixed emotions when it comes to this movie. The movie was in my Netflix queue and it was waiting to find a home in my DVD player. I wasn't sure what to expect, and then I pressed play. Of course I was excited to see my girl crush, Sheri Moon Zombie (Heidi Hawthorn) In the first frame. She had the same hair do in this one that she did in "The Toolbox Murders" and as always, she does a wonderful job with her character. The mood in the movie was very dark and in the familiar Zombie fashion, the imagery was both visceral and alarming. I enjoyed Meg Foster (Margaret Morgan) and her opening speech. Foster's voice rattled my senses and had me in a hypnotic state. I couldn't look away. Since there are no spoilers here I will not go into too much detail. However, I will say that this isn't a movie for everyone. It's an abstract painting of the "Salem Witch Trials". The trance song that had the women zoning out was also very effective as well. While it had so many amazing and palatable moments, there were some head scratching maybe I need to watch this again moments.
All of the strange begins when Moon Zombie (Hawthorne) receives a strange package at her radio station. Inside the box there is a record with an eerie symbol on it. When the record is played it sends Moon Zombie (Hawthorne) to another place. The music even had me in a weird place for a while after the credits rolled.
One of my favorite moments was seeing Patricia Quinn on the big screen again. For those of you who don't know who she is, I have to say how dare you. Patricia Quinn played Magenta in "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and was electric. Now Ms. Quinn plays a palm reader in this flick. It's quite refreshing to have directors like Zombie bringing actors and actresses back to the big screen. The cast was well put together and the premise was all there, it's just in parts and we as viewers of this movie have to, at times, put it together and come up with our own conclusion. I give this movie a 3 out of 5 because it had elements that were striking and jaw dropping and some elements were a bit confusing too and I can't lie about that people. There is no sugar coating here, the Maven is all about honesty. So check out the movie and let me know what you think.
"The Big Doll House"
MMM
Rating: R
Director: Jack Hill
Writer: Don Spencer
Cast: Judith Brown, Pam Grier, Brooke Mills, Pat Woodell, Sid Haig, Kathryn Loder and Roberta Collins
What is there to say about this movie other than it’s a grind house movie that I can certainly watch again. The trailer had me a little skeptical as to whether this was going to be one of those movies that I would turn off right at the start. I love a good girl power movie and that’s why it kept rolling. What’s not to like about strong women who are portrayed by Judith Brown, Pam Grier, Pat Woodell, Kathryn Loder and Roberta Collins? What’s not to like about a story which also includes those same strong women having the strength to rise up against sexism and show others who’s really the boss? This is what the movie showed me and why I recommend it.
Basically, “The Big Doll House” is about a group of women at an abusive prison in the Philippines hatching a plan of escape. If one were to read the words women and prison together, one would speculate that it’s not going to go anywhere. Before you judge the way the short description sounds, just check it out for yourself. This movie doesn’t come without flaws however. I am not a big fan of women being objectified or showed as an easy target; however, there are few instances of that being shown. The dialogue was lacking in certain parts but the delivery from the actors helped make the lines as well as the scene stronger. I felt that the casting choices were well thought out and even though it started off at a slow pace, it really picked up right away.
This movie reminded me of the women’s rights movement in the 1960s & 70’s where many women felt as though they were not being taken seriously or even had a voice. It’s very interesting that this movie was released in 1971 when the women’s movement was going on. Seems like perfect timing. This movie had several layers to it; the layers included heartbreak, determination, willingness, violence, grudges, addiction, sexuality, and loss. These layers make for an awesome movie and this one doesn’t disappoint.
MMM
Rating: R
Director: Jack Hill
Writer: Don Spencer
Cast: Judith Brown, Pam Grier, Brooke Mills, Pat Woodell, Sid Haig, Kathryn Loder and Roberta Collins
What is there to say about this movie other than it’s a grind house movie that I can certainly watch again. The trailer had me a little skeptical as to whether this was going to be one of those movies that I would turn off right at the start. I love a good girl power movie and that’s why it kept rolling. What’s not to like about strong women who are portrayed by Judith Brown, Pam Grier, Pat Woodell, Kathryn Loder and Roberta Collins? What’s not to like about a story which also includes those same strong women having the strength to rise up against sexism and show others who’s really the boss? This is what the movie showed me and why I recommend it.
Basically, “The Big Doll House” is about a group of women at an abusive prison in the Philippines hatching a plan of escape. If one were to read the words women and prison together, one would speculate that it’s not going to go anywhere. Before you judge the way the short description sounds, just check it out for yourself. This movie doesn’t come without flaws however. I am not a big fan of women being objectified or showed as an easy target; however, there are few instances of that being shown. The dialogue was lacking in certain parts but the delivery from the actors helped make the lines as well as the scene stronger. I felt that the casting choices were well thought out and even though it started off at a slow pace, it really picked up right away.
This movie reminded me of the women’s rights movement in the 1960s & 70’s where many women felt as though they were not being taken seriously or even had a voice. It’s very interesting that this movie was released in 1971 when the women’s movement was going on. Seems like perfect timing. This movie had several layers to it; the layers included heartbreak, determination, willingness, violence, grudges, addiction, sexuality, and loss. These layers make for an awesome movie and this one doesn’t disappoint.
"Nobody Can Cool"
MMMMM
Director: Dpyx
Writer: Dpyx
Cast: Catherine Annette, Nick Principe, Nikki Bohm, David Atlas, Haris Mahic, and Matan Grunseit
“Nobody Can Cool”
A couple wants to get away and spend some quality time together, when they find themselves on a double date with disaster and they find out a few more secrets along the way. It’s a movie that has so many twists and turns that you never see it coming and it’s like a massive truck knocking you on your behind. With a title like, “Nobody Can Cool” I was not sure what to expect, and now that I have experienced it for myself I can truly see why the title works. It’s not just a movie about a cabin in the woods, it’s much more than that, it’s reminiscent of a Hitchcock thriller with a splash of “Natural Born Killers” thrown in to make a unique and modern gem of a flick.
Each character carried their weight very nicely. I was pleasantly surprised by the new faces I saw in this movie. Catherine Annette (Susan), Nick Principe (Len), Nikki Bohm (Gigi), David Atlas (David), Haris Mahic (Mo), and Matan Grunseit (Tommy) all bring their characters to life. I will say that one of the guys does a great job channeling his inner DeNiro. The script was well written and it was truly a refreshing change. The director Dpyx has a great eye for making the mood in every scene switch gears without giving the viewer any warning that it’s about to happen, which is genius. I also found the momentum of the movie began to pick up right away so there was no drawn out and overstuffed dialogue that can turn up the boring meter very quickly. It’s not easy to make a thriller these days; however, this writer/director executes it flawlessly.“Nobody Can Cool” delivers the thrills as well as the great conversations, a stellar cast, mystery and so much more. This movie delivers and is truly a must see.
MMMMM
Director: Dpyx
Writer: Dpyx
Cast: Catherine Annette, Nick Principe, Nikki Bohm, David Atlas, Haris Mahic, and Matan Grunseit
“Nobody Can Cool”
A couple wants to get away and spend some quality time together, when they find themselves on a double date with disaster and they find out a few more secrets along the way. It’s a movie that has so many twists and turns that you never see it coming and it’s like a massive truck knocking you on your behind. With a title like, “Nobody Can Cool” I was not sure what to expect, and now that I have experienced it for myself I can truly see why the title works. It’s not just a movie about a cabin in the woods, it’s much more than that, it’s reminiscent of a Hitchcock thriller with a splash of “Natural Born Killers” thrown in to make a unique and modern gem of a flick.
Each character carried their weight very nicely. I was pleasantly surprised by the new faces I saw in this movie. Catherine Annette (Susan), Nick Principe (Len), Nikki Bohm (Gigi), David Atlas (David), Haris Mahic (Mo), and Matan Grunseit (Tommy) all bring their characters to life. I will say that one of the guys does a great job channeling his inner DeNiro. The script was well written and it was truly a refreshing change. The director Dpyx has a great eye for making the mood in every scene switch gears without giving the viewer any warning that it’s about to happen, which is genius. I also found the momentum of the movie began to pick up right away so there was no drawn out and overstuffed dialogue that can turn up the boring meter very quickly. It’s not easy to make a thriller these days; however, this writer/director executes it flawlessly.“Nobody Can Cool” delivers the thrills as well as the great conversations, a stellar cast, mystery and so much more. This movie delivers and is truly a must see.
"You're Next"
MMMMM
Director: Adam Wingard
Writer: Simon Barrett
Cast: Sharni Vinson, Nicholas Tucci, Wendy Glenn, AJ Bowen, Joe Swanberg, Rob Moran, and Barbara Crampton.
This is a movie where the quote, “money is the root of all evil” truly resonates as clear as a bell. A family gets together for a special occasion and instead they endure something worse, something nightmares are made of. There were many terrorizing moments and most of those wasted no time to happen. I very much enjoyed the animal masks as well which was a interesting touch and a look I have never seen in a horror before. The masks were subtle, they were not flashy, and however, they were effective. They reminded me of the mask Michael Myers wore in “Halloween” (1978) and how the viewer had to adjust their eyes to the darkness to realize that there was someone behind the unsuspecting victim. There were even a few head tilts as well, almost as is if it was a homage to Myers. If I may be candid for a moment, I wasn't expecting the macabre findings that I witnessed when I watched, “You’re Next”. First of all, when you hear the words, “you’re next” you initially start to feel either that there is a disaster imminent or you are about to embark on an amazing journey. In the case of the movie, “You’re Next” it’s the first one and the disaster keeps rolling all through the movie. It never failed to give me the thrills that I crave in cinema.
This movie had so many surprises that I had to remember to breathe and try to take it all in through my hands that were sometimes covering my face. I figured that I would end up seeing something that I have never encountered before and this is the kind of horror that has been missing. The elements of sheer terror are palpable and attach itself to you like a residue. I truly recommend this movie and gave it a 5 out of 5 on the Maven because it rocked.
MMMMM
Director: Adam Wingard
Writer: Simon Barrett
Cast: Sharni Vinson, Nicholas Tucci, Wendy Glenn, AJ Bowen, Joe Swanberg, Rob Moran, and Barbara Crampton.
This is a movie where the quote, “money is the root of all evil” truly resonates as clear as a bell. A family gets together for a special occasion and instead they endure something worse, something nightmares are made of. There were many terrorizing moments and most of those wasted no time to happen. I very much enjoyed the animal masks as well which was a interesting touch and a look I have never seen in a horror before. The masks were subtle, they were not flashy, and however, they were effective. They reminded me of the mask Michael Myers wore in “Halloween” (1978) and how the viewer had to adjust their eyes to the darkness to realize that there was someone behind the unsuspecting victim. There were even a few head tilts as well, almost as is if it was a homage to Myers. If I may be candid for a moment, I wasn't expecting the macabre findings that I witnessed when I watched, “You’re Next”. First of all, when you hear the words, “you’re next” you initially start to feel either that there is a disaster imminent or you are about to embark on an amazing journey. In the case of the movie, “You’re Next” it’s the first one and the disaster keeps rolling all through the movie. It never failed to give me the thrills that I crave in cinema.
This movie had so many surprises that I had to remember to breathe and try to take it all in through my hands that were sometimes covering my face. I figured that I would end up seeing something that I have never encountered before and this is the kind of horror that has been missing. The elements of sheer terror are palpable and attach itself to you like a residue. I truly recommend this movie and gave it a 5 out of 5 on the Maven because it rocked.