Change Your Image
BloodGuts
Ratings
Most Recently Rated
Lists
An error has ocurred. Please try againReviews
The Tattooist (2018)
Short, condensed, gory and in need of more depth
Today we live in a day and age where the plot of a film can be condensed into a trailer and in such times, what if the film was the length of the trailer? Something Michael Wong has taken to heart with his micro short THE TATTOOIST.
Running in at just 80 seconds, there's a lot to digest. Is everything real? What's the narrative? Wow, did that just happen? All valid questions the quick cut film sees the audience asking and yet not letting them go long enough to miss the next frame. THE TATTOOIST is an interesting short, one that has no narrative yet gives enough away to allow the audience to make up their own mind. Does the latest customer become a victim of a sadistic human trafficking/torture network? Is the ink supernatural? Is this trauma bought on by the tattooist? Who knows, but one thing is for sure, in between the manic screams and sound akin to TETSUO, there is much more to uncover here that begs more to be seen of Michael Wong.
There's plenty of gore, and close up horror within the short, that unlike most movie trailers, this one perfectly balances itself between leaving the audience wanting more and enticing them with the fragments of a story yet to be told. We really do hoe to see a longer cut of THE TATTOOIST, something that feels very unique for the horror genre between the neon lights and blood drenched clientele held behind cells, there's enough mystery here to keep the momentum going for something special which is at the grasp of Wong.
Bliss (2021)
How the mind runs wild
Without any spoilers, go into this with no preconceptions. There a raft of negative reviews I think mainly because this was advertised as a heavy blend of sci-fi and romance but is far from both.
There are some questionable scenes from Selma Hayek but on the whole this was really engrossing from start to end. And the soundtrack was very fitting.
This is one that I think will garner a following, similar to Another Earth, its a big premise done on a small scale and overall it works really well. The mind bending scenes bending worlds is actually pretty impressive for a film that has a relative low budget for a sci-fi film.
For fans of Another Earth, Mr Nobody and Coherence.
Starfish (2018)
Indie classic in vein of Another World and February
Firstly, yes this is a slow paced indie. However, let the negativity stop there. This is a film best suited when you have downtime and nothing to do or expect.
Virginia Gardener plays Aubrey who awakens after the rest of the world has disappeared. Accompanied on a hide and seek with other monsters and a mission to unearth how this happened is her quest and what linear story the film follows.
As for the depth and heart of Starfish, this is first and foremost a movie of grief, one of downtrodden hopelessness and one with a heartfelt presence if you are willing to sit back and take in the cinematic glory A.T. White has on display.
Bone Tomahawk (2015)
If THE DESCENT was directed by CLINT EASTWOOD, this would be the end result.
Like buses, westerns tend to be extinct until three pop up at once. Quentin Tarantino's big budget THE HATEFUL EIGHT along with the James Ransone economical vehicle THE TIMBER and now the more sinister events of BONE TOMAHAWK.
Sharing the lead, Kurt Russell, with two of the three mentioned, BONE TOMAHAWK is a western that hides its horror extremely well, paying off with a viciously brutal closing chapter. Sent into the wilderness after his wife is kidnapped, Patrick Wilson (THE CONJURING, INSIDIOUS) takes the local sheriff (Russell) on a lengthy trek to retrieve not only his wife but to put peace to the natives who feed on the flesh of humanity.
While Russell looks like he has just walked off the set of THE HATEFUL EIGHT and owns the screen, the rest of the cast play a supportive pillar in this unconventional film of two parts. The film's drama is played straight from the pages of a Clint Eastwood western. Slow pace, macho behaviour and a penchant for a good gun fight all here in check. In principle none of the central characters are initially likable but their motives relatable. Whether it is the ruthless deputy Brooder (Michael Fox) or the lovable charm of Chicory (Richard Jenkins), the supportive network the unlikely companions share builds stronger as the stakes raise higher. It is only when the tribe confront the captors that the true horror arrives and only the minds of Eli Roth and Neil Marshall could imagine something so blood worthy.
Despite its nature, BONE TOMAHAWK is a more faithful western than this year's bigger film and while the score doesn't quite live up to the classic of Ennio Morricone's instantly classic score, there is an authenticity in S. Craig Zahler's film that extends further than its rivals. Whether it is the barren wastelands or the hateful characters, the costumes or sheer humanity that drives the cast through, this film lays waste to over scripted wordplay in favour of a slow build up to a very tense final chapter.
If THE DESCENT was directed by CLINT EASTWOOD, this would be the end result. One scene in particular will be treasured as the most cringe worthy moment of 2016, and surprisingly, even with the surreal unfolding of events, the film never over plays the horror so much as to forget this is a western at heart, just don't forget to take a sick bag.
> Martyn Wakefield is writer and editor for BloodGuts UK Horror and has contributed over 250 reviews dedicated to the horror genre.
The Forest (2016)
A familiar yet original marriage of Eastern and Western horror
THE FOREST is a surprising treat that not only has some star turns from Dormer (yes, multiple roles for the GAME OF THRONES and THE TUDORS star) but holds a story of a desperate struggle that keeps you enticed until the very end.
When news of her twin sister, Jess (Natalie Dormer) has gone missing reaches Sarah (Natalie Dormer) she heads to Japan to seek the truth to her disappearance. Learning she was last seen heading towards the infamous suicide hotspot of Aokigahara Forest, the worst is feared and Sarah racing against time, must protect not only her sister, but her sanity against what the forest has to offer.
What is refreshing about THE FOREST is its authenticity to tell a story of a foreign place and share that with the audience. Sarah's isolated journey is only shared by a journalist who latches onto the native tongue of the lead, encouraging her search to much dismay.
In a time when American remakes of Eastern classics have become a somewhat throwaway instant cash grab for movie studios, it's rewarding to see a film where the eastern influence and American experience of the film-makers is shared bringing something original yet familiar to the market. Rather than taking a story and rebranding it as English language, the screenwriters take inspiration and play a stranger in a strange land, an experience felt by the audience and stars alike. While the film shares much in tone with other eastern features such as TALE OF TWO SISTERS or ACACIA where the real scares are the psychological human emotions rather than the ghosts beyond the trees.
Natalie Dormer first lead role proves once more she is a powerhouse of an actress playing both of the twins to good effect. Her performance as Sarah carries the film and her believable performance drives the emotional journey to its unexpected closure.
While never straying too far from the genre's classic formula, Zada never overdoes any of the suspense or twists to an extent that even the apparition of the supernatural habitants of the forest become one with the story. The reality of a missing person and the haunting events never seem overdone or too obscure as to make the events farcical as many similar movies do so.
While the film is limited of scares, it effectively invents itself as a American/Eastern hybrid that marries both cultures to great effect. Its J-Horror influence will be familiar with any movie goer familiar with the genres ability to share a darker side to humanity released in the form of the supernatural yet still have a lead whose western culture is unflattered by the lack of technology in a world where there seems a greater divide between nature and urban jungles.
Interestingly, Jason Zada couldn't be further away from last year's HOUSES THAT October BUILT, sharing a bigger budget, effective lighting (or lack of) and a story that hones in on the heart of its central character rather than the spirits in the forest that could have been a much scarier experience, albeit one that lacked heart. All of which is not to say THE FOREST is not without its fair share of atmosphere, making it a well packaged horror and a platform for its lead star to shine.
> Martyn Wakefield is writer and editor for BloodGuts UK Horror and has contributed over 250 reviews dedicated to the horror genre.
Krampus (2015)
'Krampus' is the Christmas gift you've been waiting for since Gremlins
The festive favourites of the horror genre haven't really changed since the introduction of 'Gremlins' and 'Silent Night' back in the 80's. Smaller films have gone under the radar including the sleeper hit 'Rare Exports', 'Santa's Slay' and 'Sint' but none have captured the big screen attention that is so deserved of the genre. 2015, by all extents, seems the year of Krampus, a mystical shadow of Santa who punishes the bad leaving Santa to dish out his presents to the good. The legend of Krampus has lived on throughout the lifetime of the jolly man himself yet it is only now we begin to share the legend from its humble roots, welcoming the hooved naysayer into our homes and festivities.
'Krampus' lives up to its expectation of being an instant Christmas classic with the joy and goodwill of Christmas wrapped up in spine-tingling wrapping paper to unravel. Gone is the happy festive family and in its place a true representation of Christmas, the burden of the family reunion and stress that all seem to go unnoticed in the world of movies, until now.
Adam Scott and Toni Collette envision the parents who try to do best and when her sister played by Allison Tolman, the entourage of husband David Koechner and siblings only provoke further drama in the Engel household. The only Christmas spirit the Engels will see this year is that in the liquor cabinet and when youngest son Max (Emjay Anthony) relinquishes all hope, the message is sent straight Santa's shadow who arrives just in time to make even the doubters believe that where there is good, there is evil too.
Superbly paced in a tone that can only be compared to that of Gremlins, this is a humorous yet dark tale which has plenty of appeal for young and grown adults alike (just make sure the little ones are in tucked away first). Kudos has to go in the hands of casting director Cathy Sandrich, the films biggest credit has to go to the stars that play out this thrill ride in all of its glory.
In addition, the creep fest that arrives in Krampus and his elves, is nothing short of disappointing. From torturous jaws like snow creatures to a jack in the box that certainly has bite, director Michael Dougherty has chosen to keep the majority of the magic to practical effects which the film incredibly benefits from. Add into this a punchy score by Douglas Pipes and you have all of the ingredients for a fine feast to sit back and indulge.
'Krampus' is the Christmas gift you've been waiting for since Gremlins and sure as hell does not need you to act surprised. This one will be remembered for Christmases to come.
> Martyn Wakefield is writer and editor for BloodGuts UK Horror and has contributed over 250 reviews dedicated to the horror genre.
Crimson Peak (2015)
Frankenstein, Dracula, The Woman in Black, Crimson Peak
Guillermo Del Toro doesn't make terrifying ghost stories, instead creating beautiful masterpieces that unfold in what can only be described as dark fairy tales. From 'Pan's Labyrinth' to 'The Devil's Backbone', Del Toro has a fantasy for Gothic storytelling that is matched by no-one.
Crimson Peak is no exception and from its period characters to the derelict household, everything about this film screams from an era of horror that has been iconic ever since.
When brother and sister Thomas (Tom Hiddleston) and Lucille Sharpe (Jessica Chastain) arrive on US shores, they come seeking finance in a last ditch attempt for funding of Thomas' revolutionary clay mining machine. Complicating matters further is Thomas' charm with his potential investors daughter, Edith (Mia Wasikowska). Not content with an offer above any other, Thomas pursues Edith until he claims her as his wife.
Upon their return to England, Edith, now Mrs Sharpe, learns of the namesake she inherits and the curse that comes with it as they arrive in the ghastly Crimson Peak is a masterpiece to behold and is rich with Gothic detail. Del Toro may have hit his commercial peak with 'Pans Labyrinth' but what he has achieved with this movie is an oil painting that is as representative of his own work as it is of his inspiration.
It truly is a beauty to watch with every corner of Allerdale Hall gloriously detailed in rich history and colour, something that you wouldn't perhaps associate with a ghostly tale. With a resurgence in Victorian ghost stories in recent cinema, it's no surprise that 'Crimson
' doesn't quite pack the punch it should in terms of scares and storytelling but then again, the modern classics of 'Frankenstein' and 'Dracula' that made big budget horror a box office smash, this ghost story pits itself firmly in that category of films.
The trio of leading stars are sensational and their ranks in Hollywood royalty are well earned here. Wasikowska delivers a familiar turn as the frail victim and Hiddleston's charm is on show in droves but it is Chastain whose dark cynicism casts a shadow over any sign of happiness in this tale. There's something unnerving every time she appears on screen that only adds to the drama unfolding between the web of on screen relationships.
Everything from the ghastly apparitions to the lead cast prove that horror can be as enchanting as it is haunting and for fans of Guillermo Del Toro's growing repertoire of films, will know what to expect from the start. Yet despite the predictable nature, it doesn't make the journey any less enjoyable. Each of the pacing hallways hosts a haunt that is creative to look at and further detail is hidden in the walls as the attention to detail mean a companion book is a must. Throughout the layers of this mansion lie secrets to behold and the bittersweet tale once again, that Del Toro is the author of the grandest of fairy tales.
Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (2015)
Disappointing finale that leaves more questions than it answers
Released in 2007, PA bought a welcome return to scary horror infecting cinemas with a fear that the multiplexes hadn't seen for a while. Building its fanbase on rumours it had terrified Steven Spielberg, and made on a small budget, the film was a success and over the coming years has become somewhat of a Halloween tradition. Over the years there's no denying that the series has taken a downward spiral only revitalising itself with 2013's spin off movie 'The Marked Ones' changing the format to a more comedy led lead but still retaining the same framework and storyline progressed through previous instalments. 5 sequels later and as Jason Blum (Producer of the series) has confirmed, this will be the last chapter in the series and will bring all of the answers to the questions the series has so far bought to its audience.
This time, a new family, the Fleeges, enter a home sold by PA original star Katie and events turn to the predictable as they come across a box of tapes and a strange camera featuring two girls, Katie and Kristi, in their childhood. It soon becomes apparent that the events unfolding on film have further connections with the new family and history begins to repeat itself as their daughter Leila (Ivy George) becomes friends with the infamous Toby.
While this is the finale to a franchise that has mixed opinion, there is so much to explore with the breadcrumbs left behind. The coven of witches in 3, the portals in "The Marked Ones", the ongoing saga with Katie, what does it all mean? Well, one thing is for sure, there are no answers here. In fact, the film leaves with even more questions:
- Where did the camera come from? Why did the coven want to summon Toby?
- Why is the demon called Toby and seeking human form?
- Why does the demon only need the blood of Hunter and Leila born on the 6th day of the 6th month of the 6th year?
- What ever happened to Katie?
- What is her exact role in all of this?
- What is the cause of the portals/dimensions and why do we not see more of this?
- What IS the "ghost dimension"?
- What does it all mean?
- Can I have an aspirin?
The feeling is that the guys behind the series had an idea and rather than spend the time and invest in a long term story, felt they had to wrap it up in a finale that is as bland as white sheet for a Halloween costume. The series could have benefited from further spin offs to create a bigger scale as now "The Marked Ones" feels more like a standalone film than part of the bigger picture.
What should have been closure to the franchise, ends as an unsatisfying blend of repetitive bangs and a mad dash attempt to create a cash-in to the 3D that is limited to 2 scenes. Throughout the film are a number of jump moments that focus more on waking you up than actually delivering a scare.
Toby's appearance is a disappointment to say this is a demon but merely masks the appearance of Baghuul from the Sinister series with a more human like posture than the horned faced demon the film leans towards.
Where the original entry and even some of the other films, there are standalone moments that are memorable but here lies a repetition of the worst moments of the franchise, taking away any plot that was promised in favour of a new gimmick (3D) that is well underused. Previous movies have kept Toby in the background and have decided that now is the time to let the world see this menace but what unfolds is merely disappointing. Gone is te suspense of what is/isn't there and instead the venom-like creature (fans of Spiderman would understand this reference) adds little in terms of fear. While some of the 3D moments wherein the fragments of the supernatural look impressive but never really add anything to the experience. The forceful demon that was seen dragging Katie in chapter one is missing here, and if Katie is now possessed, how can the demon himself appear if he's inside Katie?
Unlike previous instalments where the films unravelling occurs over a number of weeks, here the hauntings are all delivered by the 10th consecutive day and pretty much sums up the rushed and heartless film that is Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension. The longer you think about the film the more disappointing it becomes. It's a huge let down for what could have been a solid conclusion to a mixed bag of films, instead doing more of the same and stitching a half thought out plot to close the series. You'd even question if the makers had even watched any of the previous instalments, as many will not be tuning into this one.
> Martyn Wakefield is a writer and editor for BloodGuts UK Horror and has contributed over 250 reviews on the horror genre
Contracted (2013)
Make sure you contract this
The horror genre is flooded with the undead, you'd even call it the end of days for the genre itself with so much rotting flesh invading our screens. Whether it's the endless run of 'The Walking Dead' or the rom-zom-com saga's that have followed Romero's poster trilogy, there is an ever-growing love for the undead that keeps the undead living. Almost as much imagination as gone into how the virus is contracted as to how the situation is controlled and whether it be via chemical waste bins, ancient burial grounds or nuclear holocausts, there is always a new take on events.
And here comes 'Contracted', where the root cause of the virus is through an STD but it's not the cause but the evolution that makes 'Contracted' stand on its own merits.
Najarra Townsend stars as Samantha, a young teen who after attending a house party contracts a virus that slowly eats away at her skin and morality. Balancing her life with her lover (Katie Stegeman) and bashfully southern mother (Caroline Williams) along with a friend in Alice (Alice Macdonald) who wants more than just Sam's friendship, her life needs a little less complication and a little more action. Add into the mix a complicated one night stand who won't leave Sam's side and what you have here is a volcano awaiting to erupt.
As the virus slowly takes over Sam becomes more and more debilitated and her outgoing personality is soon diminished. Yet it is this transformation that is so intriguing to watch. Brilliantly played out by Townsend who plays the frail lead to perfection. As you witness this character break down, it's hard not to feel for her as her life flits between her friends and mother and a conclusion that is emotionally struggling rather than the fast paced revolt that many zombie films carry.
Much like 2014 smash 'Starry Eyes', there may be some truth in Samantha's struggle that feels like an inside reality to those living in the darker side of LA but for the rest of us, this struggle is as painful to watch unfold. The subtle transformation makes the film more believable with each day revealing a new defect to Sam's once beautiful skin making the journey a more grounded one. Yet if it's something a little more disgusting that most zombie fans scream for, 'Contracted' is not without its fair share of revolting nature that tidily hands it over to phase 2.
As far as drama's go, Eric England has mastered the craft on his debut feature and put's this amongst other great indie movies such as 'Excision' and 'Teeth', 'Contracted' is a nail biting zombie drama that will be sure to keep your attention, even if it is the last thing you contract.
> Martyn Wakefield is a writer and editor for BloodGuts UK Horror and has contributed over 250 reviews on the horror genre
The Falling (2014)
An intensely mild ride through 1960's
Maisie Williams is extraordinary in the lead role as a band of school girls fall foul of an epidemic that causes them to faint. With no sign of any other health issues, the school teachers and parents are lead to believe this could all be a hoax at the hands of the attention seeking Lydia (Williams) who's close clique friends fall victim first.
There are undertones of something much more sinister than a coming of age tale in 60's England and after several observations it's still not clear as the reason why the children have these episodes. What is clear is that Carole Morley's brand of storytelling is as intriguing as it is gripping. The ambiguity behind the happenings is only part of the story as there's complex teachers, a home relationship between Lydia and her mother (Maxine Peake) on the brink of collapse and the death of close friend Abbie (Florence Pugh) all culminating in a spiral of madness for a young girl struggling to balance popularity and victimisation.
The relationship between Williams and Pugh, is mesmerising to watch and to learn that it has an end only adds to the heartache growing inside William's character. Be warned, there are scenes that may make you feel uncomfortable but these schoolgirls are innocent at heart and only darkened by their surroundings and darkness tiered down from their teachers especially that of disciplined head teacher (Greta Scacchi).
There's a darkness around the children that plagues from Lydia with a domino effect, and as the teachers try to control the children's behaviour though strict discipline, the conditions of the children only intensify. Set in the midst of the sexual revolution of the 1960's there are some uncomfortable scenes that only add to Williams confused state of mind and without her friend to comfort her, the difficulties that surround her only worsen her state of mind.
In many parts, 'The Falling' is a coming of age story and blurs the line between friends and unconscious followers. At its heart, this is Lydia's story but is as much about the effects of those around her as the mystery behind the girls behaviour spreads.
Whether Morley's undertones of witchcraft are purposeful or accidental, 'The Falling' is a bewitching tale that is a slow build up to very little. The film's attraction to a mainstream audience may be lost in its openness to be akin to an open ended book to be read by an open mind. Whether that be one more familiar with 'Downton Abbey' or 'The Wicker Man', there is something for a hardened film fan in any genre, just don't expect the answers to be served on a plate.
> Martyn Wakefield is writer and editor for BloodGuts UK Horror and has contributed over 250 reviews dedicated to the horror genre.
Chef (2014)
Feel good meal of the summer
For Starter: A platter of bruschetta
Chef strolls in like an episode of Masterchef. Displaying a feast of culinary specials and delicatessen that makes your mouth water. Head Chef Carl Casper (Jon Favareau) along with his sous chef Tony (Bobby Cannavale) and next in line, Martin (John Leguizamo) have a success of dishing up the best food in town. Like a plate of food porn it dishes up the best of fine dining and friendly chemistry between the kitchen staff. Unfortunately, this is all at the cost of being an abandoned husband to Inez (Sofia Vergara) and father to son Percy (Emjay Anthony). A great ensemble all lovable with passion for the kitchen and foundations to be built upon. However, an hour in and no further development in either plot nor character sees the crew feel like a drag and with the main meal still to come, the warm up begins to become more of a filler than it needs to be. An extensive cameo from starlet Scarlett Johansson adds little to the plot in addition some of the shopping/cooking scenes could have been omitted to deleted scenes on a DVD package, while the set-up is brilliant, it takes far too long and there's far too much here to digest for the real story to begin. We realised he was a cook and bad father in the first 15 minutes.
For Main: Pan Fried Steak with a side of sweet potato fries and honey jus
Finally, when Casper loses his job after abusing a food critic over Twitter, the real film begins. A road trip movie which sees Carl, Martin and Percy take the love of food and build their bond. Rich in bromance and the relationship between Carl and Percy gets stronger throughout the journey and realising his sons strengths in the growing world of social media (leading to a hilarious exchange of teaching Carl to use Twitter) by the closing chapter, the fun and passion for food and family will make you want to ditch the popcorn for something rich in flavour. Supported with a side of a soulful soundtrack and the sights and sounds from Miami to New Orleans, this truly is the feel good hit of the summer. Those expecting Iron Man 2.5 can walk away now, sharing cameos (which are unneeded) with a comedic written script, 'Chef' is a blast that can forgive its lengthy beginning in return for a tasty dish best served to an audience in need of a smile.
For Dessert: Popping Candy Ice Cream with Lemon Tart
Closing out with a brief fast forward of the after effects feels rushed and frankly unrequired as the journey tells a thousand words but one thing Favareau has achieved with 'Chef' is a lovable trio on an adventure that stretches neither budget nor fiction (well, perhaps from being unemployed and paying thousands on a kitchen). Overall, this has the ingredients for a superb dish but some portions could have been smaller than others and inside is a raw tale of companionship and passion all with a gooey centre that serves a great slice of summer.
Perfect Couples (2010)
A Funny Comedy
I absolutely love this programme, along with Big Bang Theory, this is the highlight of my week. E4 comedy double yet I don't understand why it has not been kept on! When TV execs want ratings wars they will never win with a half hour comedy slot! Money comes over substance as it (NBC) never even aired the season finale! With great acting, genuinely LOL scenes and a love for all the characters, even Leigh and Rex. I watch this with my fiancé and at last a comedy we can both find the funny side of it. Everyone can relate to it and even know somebody like these characters.
I'd love for this to continue however I think the big bosses have made up there minds and with a large fan base (3 million in America and then there's the rest of us around the globe) that will now be replaced by another attempt to replicate some old material like 2 and half men in favour of something fresh.
Shame on you NBC!