Written by John Edward Betancourt ino Anania as “Ryan” and Verity Marks as “Chloe” in Rebekah McKendry’s ELEVATOR GAME. Photo Courtesy of Heather Beckstead Photography. A Shudder Release.
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Elevator Game’. This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
One particular aspect of our modern world that is genuinely fascinating, is the sheer fact that urban myths are still a thing. Because we live in an era of information. Where one can easily learn the truth about any particular topic on a moment’s notice. Not to mention, we have a vast array of technology at our fingertips, the kind that can easily help us to learn a particular truth about a particular subject if we so choose. Plus, science can easily debunk rumors and stories about monsters that roam the land, and, in some cases, science most certainly has. Yet… regardless of having these tools at our fingertips and having the ability to debunk the mystery… urban legends persist. Which of course, leaves us wondering… why? Why would people want to lean into the mystical in an era where mysticism is nothing more than a fleeting afterthought? Well for some, they would simply say it relates to low intelligence and poor education. As though that’s the only way a person would ever believe in something mystical over reality. But that’s simply rude, and an easy way to brush off something that quite frankly, is rooted in far deeper and more philosophical concepts. The kind that relates to a need for meaning, a need for a different kind of understanding, and it just so happens that a brand-new horror feature on Shudder, takes the time to explore that meaning in Elevator Game. A feat that this film accomplishes, by introducing us to the team from Nightmare on Dare Street. A group of vloggers who love doing spooky dares and trying out urban myths and legends to see if by chance… they are actually real or not. Which of course, always ends in a debunking of the myth, but the crew persists on. Not because they want to see something happen, but for the likes and the cash payments that comes with views. But the arrival of a new team member on staff, Ryan, is about to flip their world upside down. For he suggests the team take part in the Elevator Game. A supposed ritual that can unlock the power of an old spirit and allow for people to cross over into her world. A challenge that everyone dismisses, until some financial woes with their biggest sponsor prompts them to give it a try, wherein they discover… not all myths are grounded in imagination.  Key Art from ‘Elevator Game’ Courtesy of Shudder. A Shudder Release.
Which at first glance, appears to be a plot grounded deeper in satire of the online world and the current state of affairs for supernatural entertainment, and there’s merit to that. Since the team is only in it for fame and fortune and nothing more, and that is a recurrent theme/reality in vlogging, since many vloggers jump into the spooky stuff to bring those views together. But as the story continues along, and we learn about what Ryan has lost and how badly it has impacted him… do we really see the commentary about our need to be near myths and legends come to life. Because in essence, Ryan needs this to be real to find his missing sister, to gain some kind of closure over her loss, and to potentially be able to say a goodbye if by chance she did indeed disappear from this plane of existence.
All of which speaks to how a myth, or a legend persists. Because sometimes, when life is hard or when all is robbed from a person, the fantastical is all they have. Wherein they can find meaning and substance and perhaps work out the troubles raining down upon them. Not to mention, it can serve as an escape, as something to help one avoid the pains of everyday life or something that is gnawing at one’s soul. Which makes this, a smart film for certain. One that really does make it clear that until there is a real peace in the world, where we know how to cope with the bad and where our worries some what end, these types of concepts will live on to help us find balance and give us the distractions we need, and that made for some powerful commentary and some real tragedy in this story, but that’s to be expected in a horror film about spirits from beyond. Speaking of the horror however, we would be remiss to not point out, that the scares are pretty solid in this film as well. For this movie makes impactful use of dread and the unknown to send chills down our spine, before unleashing the gore and the real terror in the third act, and that makes for some impactful and dynamic scares, and some genuinely eerie moments for certain. Especially when we learn what happens when someone plays the game right and gets to see the ‘prize’ that awaits them, and well, the scares and that depth, make for one solid horror feature. One that is intense, and never wastes a single moment of screen time, but more importantly, leaves us with plenty to chew upon when it comes to why the urban legend and myths in general, hold great power over us, and how that can be a problem for a person if they don’t use that power in the right manner. Watch ‘Elevator Game’
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Written by John Edward Betancourt Norman Reedus, Clémence Poésy, Laïka Blanc-Francard, and Louis Puech Scigliuzzi as Daryl Dixon, Isabelle, Sylvie, and Laurent in Episode 102 of ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ – ‘Alouette’. (Photo Courtesy of Emmanuel Guimier/AMC.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Two of ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
It is definitely safe to say, that the AMC series, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, accomplished wonders with its series premiere last week. For not only did it remind us of how much we love the title character in question and his incredible survival skills, but the series also took the time to really explore some new corners of the TWDU in both the literal and figurative sense. Since we are now in France with Daryl, and able to see how poorly Europe fared under the plague of living death that ravaged the world, and the premiere also made it clear… that this part of the world and Daryl… are quite hopeless in nature. For the devastation has taken its toll on the people of France and Daryl is clearly in a different place mentally than when we left him in ‘Rest in Peace’, and well… it is quite important to revisit these key elements of the series premiere of the show for one reason and one reason alone. Simply because… that was to inform us that this will be a story about redemption and how we find hope in our darkest hour. Which is something that zombie fiction doesn’t always cover that much, and understandably so. After all, the death of death would rob humanity of hope, of the belief that there was something better for us in death be it peace or perhaps a voyage to an afterlife. And of course, it’s about survival of the living in the wake of the end of everything, which doesn’t make pondering upon hope all that easy. But now that this franchise is in a new place… where humanity is slowly starting to come together in communities again and rebuild, now is the right time to explore the nature of hope and its place in the world and well, ‘Alouette’, more or less offered up two potential paths of finding hope, through two key storylines. One of which of course… involved Daryl. For it became obvious in this story, that Daryl has… lost his way in more ways than we expected. For not only is he jaded and without hope, but he has also lost sight of how helping others fueled him and helped him to believe in something greater. Which allowed for this story, to explore how one can get back to that point in their mental journey when they seem too far removed from it. A feat that this storyline accomplished, by having him and new friends find some ugly struggles on their way north. For they lost their mule when a large herd of the dead appeared and that brought them to unexpected safety, within the confines of a former school that had become a beacon for the future. Where its children grew up away from the chaos and found ways to be self-sufficient in all the important ways… but one. Because they needed medication for their ailing teacher and guardian and since Daryl is of course... the finest warrior this franchise has ever known… he stepped in to help. For the location of everything they would need from a health standpoint also harbored a horse and trouble of course. In the form of a moat filled with the walking dead, and a man that was more eager to hoard and inflict pain than be decent to others. To the point where he even kept one of the students captive, in his makeshift basement. Which offended Daryl to no end, and that brought out… the best in Daryl. For he valiantly fought the dead and did all the right things for those kids. Including offering up the truth about the chances of their proctor/hero’s survival, after hiding it for selfish reasons. But what mattered more here, was that Daryl found purpose again, and a belief in more by being the hero, by righting injustices and that spoke deeply to that central theme.  Clémence Poésy as Isabelle in Episode 102 of ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ – ‘Alouette’. (Photo Courtesy of Emmanuel Guimier/AMC.)
But there was mention of more explorations regarding hope here and how we find it, and that was handled by Isabelle’s unique story. For this particular tale… took the time to transport us back to the beginning of the end. Of the night that the dead returned to life in France, and since France is ground zero for all things TWD, Isabelle endured one terrifying evening. Wherein she watched Paris quickly slip into utter chaos. The kind that saw panic grip this proud city, since the dead were quickly rising to power. But thanks to an old friend, she and her sister, Lily, were able to escape the madness and headed out to the countryside in the hopes of reaching an obscure destination that would keep everyone safe from the scourges of living death and well, it was her time on the road that truly robbed Isabelle of hope.
For out there, in the madness and the fear, someone she cared about was ready to abandon Lily when it was revealed that Lily had been keeping her pregnancy a secret. Which was a level of cruelty that Isabelle could not process, and that prompted her to abandon that friend and set out on her own with family, only to suffer through more heartache and hopelessness when she and Lily encountered more walking death and devastation and the horrors of this new world. Since Lily did take a bite on the arm in an encounter with the dead and well, the suffering that ensued and the worry about the health of Lily’s now forthcoming child, was more than Isabelle could bear. For everything was falling to pieces and there seemed to be little to look forward to with the world crumbling around her. But the birth of the baby, a boy that would be named Laurent, changed all of that for her. In part because there was beauty to be found in that moment, the beginnings of life in the midst of constant death, in the most biblical way imaginable. Since Laurent was born in the very convent where we met Isabelle, and of course, death and resurrection in a manner that defies the norms is one of many important themes in the good book, and is to signify our enduring spirit through hope, and salvation through a new beginning and that wasn’t lost on Isabelle, and that… and one other key thing about Laurent gave her hope again. For we would be remiss to not point out… that Laurent survived infection, for his pregnant mother should have passed living death onto him, and perhaps she did. To the point where the antibodies and protection the womb provides may have helped him fight off that infection and given him his own antibodies to living death. Time will tell of course, but what matters more in this moment, is that beauty in the worst times around us… can give us hope and lift us up in ways we never thought possible. All of which made, for a supremely uplifting episode when all is said and done. One that saw a hero that’s been hiding, emerge from the darkness and embrace the light, and it set the stage for an epic journey with Laurent. One that could in fact, relate to a cure at last for the plague that has brought pain to the world for decades on end. But while we wait to see if Laurent is indeed the answer to the apocalypse’s prayers or just the sheer recipient of a genetic lottery, it is the hopefulness of this tale that matters most. Since it was wondrous to feel that once again in a universe that has seen its characters struggle with some supremely difficult times, and it’s a good thing that Daryl and his new friends are finding it right now. Because undoubtedly, tough days are ahead in this journey, and they will need that hope to sustain them and lift them up… when darkness comes calling once again. Until next time. Watch ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’
Written by John Edward Betancourt LaKeith Stanfield and Malcolm Barrett as Apollo and Patrice in Episode Four of ‘The Changeling’ – ‘The Wise Ones’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘The Changeling’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
When we last settled in to discuss the phenomenal new Apple TV+ series, The Changeling, we talked at length about the unconventional nature of this story. Since it has no qualms about exposing the horrors and the ugliness of life, and how we try desperately to use fairy tale thoughts and concepts to cope with the realities of the world and how painful life can be and well… this week’s episode of the show made it clear… that it won’t be letting up regarding this fascinating style of storytelling. For ‘The Wise Ones’ offered up a story that once again explored the horrors of life while toying with the strange mythos the first three episodes created, regarding Emma’s downward spiral, one that seemingly came forth from mystical roots and people with an understanding of something more. A feat this accomplished by immediately plunging us into one of the greatest horrors of all, what comes next when we suffer through great trauma. For life goes on, and the world keeps on turning, and we are forced to rejoin it regardless of how much healing and quiet time we would like to take part in, instead. Which was why… we saw Apollo… back at work if you will. Wherein he and Patrice were working to sell that incredibly rare edition of To Kill a Mockingbird to William Wheeler. Simply because Apollo needed the money to do something as simple as survive and well, that interaction and what followed… made for some uncomfortable storytelling. The kind that chronicled a man that had no desire to be near small talk and emotion, and also came to realize how ugly the world can be when one is suffering deeply. Simply because after William poured out his guts regarding his own pain in front of these men, Apollo was made aware of the group that was created to honor his late son. Where people left terrible comments and commentary, giving rise to fresh and pained feelings for Apollo, and this really was a powerful way to explore the horrors of the world and how hard it is to move forward when we hurt. Courtesy of a cold world that cares little about us, and kudos to the show for showing this in the raw and for reminding us of how people are quick to be nasty when bad things don’t impact them. And while this could have carried the story from beginning to end since it was so compelling and well-acted, and so visceral, there was mention of the fact that the fantastical came into play, and that was handled by way of a surprise from dear William. Because despite their business being concluded, he wanted to offer up a bonus to Apollo. One that was quite stunning in nature. For he had CCTV footage that indicated, Emma was alive, and was wandering around the city and that she also had a home base. An island in the midst of the harbor and of course… Apollo went with William out there and found it in a mystical manner and on this island… were the Wise Ones. That mysterious group of women that seemingly demanded blood of Emma and were led by an equally as mysterious woman named Cal, who was deep in her convictions regarding all that has transpired and who also… had it in for William. For he, it turned out, was lying, and did not tell Apollo the whole truth about his past, and that… brought Apollo to a tough position, one where he must decide to either help a liar and evoke pain or wait and let a man die in the name of the truth and a chance at revenge. Which made for one stunning and ugly ending to this episode, one that was as brilliant as everything that came before it. Because truly… it did a wonderful job of exploring the hollow and horrific nature of life when we are recovering from a tough time in our lives, while finding a way to lean into the fantastical in a supremely unique manner. As though Apollo and William could only see what they needed to when they became open to healing, instead of thriving within fantasy, and that’s a powerful metaphor from a powerful and engaging episode. Because all depth aside, there’s real trouble on the horizon now, and real questions in our mind regarding the Wise Ones, and that will make the wait for next week’s episode as excruciating as can be. Since we are now dying to know all there is to now about the Wise Ones and their ties to the pain that Apollo has endured. Until next time. Watch ‘The Changeling’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Key art for ‘The Puppetman’ Courtesy of Shudder.
This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
Truly the best part of being a horror fan during September, is coming to enjoy all the teasers that relate to the forthcoming wonder… of spooky season. For every network and studio out there, offers up some kind of scary story celebration for October and horror fans simply get to kick back and plan accordingly as to what terrifying treat, they want to see and when, and Shudder… is doing its best to help out with that. For the world’s premier horror streamer took the time to drop the trailer and key art today for its upcoming thriller, The Puppetman, just a day after Shudder dropped another trailer for Nightmare. Simply because, they want horror fans happy and thoroughly enjoying this year’s FearFest event, and well… since you’re eager to learn more about what ghoulish delights Shudder is going to send our way this Halloween season… here is that trailer for you to partake in. As we continue the countdown to Halloween and all the horrors it harbors. ‘Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural, released today the trailer and key art for the new diabolical thriller The Puppetman, from writer/director Brandon Christensen (Z, Superhost, Still/Born). The film, which just won the Popcorn Frights Jury Award for Best Feature, will make its exclusive streaming debut as part of Shudder’s annual “FearFest” programming lineup on Friday, October 13 on Shudder and will also be available to stream on AMC+. The Puppetman is a convicted killer on death row. He has always maintained his innocence saying it was an evil force controlling his body as he slaughtered his victims. Now Michal, the killer's daughter, begins to suspect that there may be some truth to her father’s claim when those around her begin to die in brutal ways. All hope rests on her shoulders to break The Puppetman's curse. The film stars Michael Paré, Caryn Richman and Alyson Gorske. “The Puppetman harkens back to films like Final Destination where you take a group of friends and exploit them for horrifying deaths,” said Christensen. “We had a ton of fun developing these characters and then taking everything we know about them and turning it against themselves. While I’ve killed off characters before, it was nothing compared to the grotesque machinations that Shudder allowed us to do on The Puppetman.” The Puppetman was produced by Matt Manjourides and Justin Martell, Ryan Christensen is co-writer with Brandon and Seager Dixon is co-producer. About Shudder AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Germany, Australia and New Zealand. For a 7-day, risk-free trial, visit www.shudder.com. About AMC+ AMC+ is the company’s new premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, This is Going to Hurt, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, South Korea, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt Key Art from ‘Nightmare’ Courtesy of Shudder.
This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
When it comes Halloween to themed programming during the always beloved spooky season, there is but one streamer to turn to, in order to properly get your spooky fix… Shudder. Simply because the good people at Shudder carefully curate their selections and make sure that we the fans get the most diverse lineup possible when spooky season arrives, and well… once again Shudder has prepared a lovely Halloween lineup for us. One that they are further enhancing by offering up some fine teases of what to expect from this year’s FearFest selection. For earlier today, Shudder released the trailer and some key art for its upcoming FearFest feature, Nightmare, to really give us an idea of how intense this year’s FearFest is going to be and well, you’re about to find out what kind of scares await us. For Shudder was kind enough to share that trailer and that art with us, and well… here is your sampling of what nightmares, Nightmare will produce… when it arrives on Shudder on September 29. ‘Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural, released today the trailer for the new thriller Nightmare, from writer/director Kjersti Helen Raasmussen (The Tunnel). The film will make its exclusive streaming debut on Friday, September 29 onShudder priming fans for Shudder’s annual “FearFest.”Nightmare, a Norwegian language film with English subtitles, will also be available to stream on AMC+. In Nightmare, Mona and Robby are a young couple in love. Robby has just landed his dream job, and they’ve scored an amazing deal on a spacious, if run-down, flat. Never mind that it requires quite a bit of renovation. Never mind the neighbors’ constant fighting, and screaming baby... Never mind that Mona is suddenly plagued by night terrors which grow more intense every time she falls asleep… Robby is eager to start a family, despite Mona’s hesitation. Eventually, Mona’s issues spiral dangerously out of control as she becomes convinced that she is being attacked by a mythical demon – the Mare – intent on possessing her unborn child. Nightmare was produced by Einar Loftesnes and John Einar Hagen. About Shudder AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Germany, Australia and New Zealand. For a 7-day, risk-free trial, visit www.shudder.com. About AMC+ AMC+ is the company’s new premium streaming bundle featuring an extensive lineup of popular and critically acclaimed original programming from AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV and full access to targeted streaming services Shudder, Sundance Now and IFC Films Unlimited, which feature content such as A Discovery of Witches, Creepshow, and Boyhood. The service features a continually refreshed library of commercial-free content, with iconic series from the AMC Networks portfolio including Mad Men, Halt & Catch Fire, Hell on Wheels, Turn: Washington’s Spies, Rectify, Portlandia, and series from The Walking Dead Universe, among many others. The service also offers a growing slate of original and exclusive series including Gangs of London, This is Going to Hurt, Dark Winds, and the first two series in a new Anne Rice universe, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches. With new movies released every Friday, AMC+ is the newest destination for exclusive film premieres direct from theaters all year long. AMC+ is available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, India, South Korea, and Spain and is available in the U.S. through AMCPlus.com, the AMC+ app, and a number of digital and cable partners.' Written by John Edward Betancourt Key Art from Season 2 of ‘Shining Vale’ Courtesy of STARZ.
It is definitely safe to say, that everyone is eager awaiting season two the STARZ series, Shining Vale. Simply because season one of the series was a breath of fresh air. Courtesy of its perfect blend of horror and comedy, combined with the fact that it paid tribute to epic horror stories that came before it… all while carving out its own new path within the genre. Thanks to a plot that took us in a direction that no one expected, and it also doesn’t hurt that its cast is simply top notch through and through and well… the buzz for season two this series is only going to grow after today.
For earlier, STARZ released the key-art and the full trailer for season two of the show, and well… it would seem that season two is going to be quite the incredible ride. One that is going to expand upon this story and the mysteries of that house in a bold manner, and well… since you’re here to see what awaits Pat and her family in season two of this brilliant show, here is that trailer, some updated details regarding year two, and that key art for you to enjoy… courtesy of STARZ. So, you can find elation in the fact that we are but weeks away from the return this magnificent and refreshing series. ‘STARZ has released the trailer and key art for season two of its hit horror comedy, “Shining Vale,” which returns to haunt viewers' screens on the frightfully appropriate Friday, October 13th. The hysterical, spine-chilling trailer and key art teases the repercussions following last season’s nail biting cliffhanger when Pat (Courteney Cox) landed herself in a psychiatric hospital for trying to murder her family with an ax. Pat (Cox) went through extensive Electroshock Therapy, and when she returns home she meets a mysterious woman who introduces her to a host of ancient remedies used to “cure” women of depression, including the apocryphal Smile Masks. Season two explores what’s in store for the Phelps family as they continue to be haunted by ghosts while Pat struggles to live with mental illness among a broken family, battling demons both internally…and externally. “Shining Vale” season two is set to premiere on Friday, October 13th, at midnight ET on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms and on LIONSGATE+ streaming platform in the U.K. and Ireland. On linear, it will debut on STARZ on Friday, October 13th, at 9PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada. New episodes will be available to stream weekly on Fridays at midnight on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms and will air weekly on the STARZ linear platform. “Shining Vale,” stars Emmy Award® nominee Courteney Cox (“Friends,” “Cougar Town”), Academy Award® nominee and Emmy Award® winner Greg Kinnear (As Good as It Gets, “The Kennedys”) and Academy Award® winner Mira Sorvino (“Hollywood,” “The Expecting”). In addition to Cox, Kinnear and Sorvino, “Shining Vale” also stars Gus Birney (“Dickinson”), Merrin Dungey (“Big Little Lies,” “The Resident”), and Dylan Gage (“PEN15”), and features Emmy Award® nominees Judith Light (“Poker Face”), Allison Tolman (“Gaslit,” “Why Women Kill”) and Sherilyn Fenn (“Twin Peaks”). “Shining Vale” is executive produced by Jeff Astrof (“Trial and Error”) from Other Shoe Productions, Sharon Horgan and Clelia Mountford (“Bad Sisters,” “Motherland”) from Merman, and Aaron Kaplan (“The Chi,” “The Neighborhood”) and Melanie Frankel from Kapital Entertainment. Courteney Cox also serves as a producer. The series is co-created by Astrof and Horgan. The series is produced by Warner Bros. Television and Lionsgate Television in association with Other Shoe Productions, Merman and Kapital Entertainment. About “Shining Vale” Season one of “Shining Vale” introduced Pat and Terry Phelps, a dysfunctional family that tried to run from their problems by moving their kids into a Victorian mansion in small-town Connecticut. The only problem? It may be haunted. Once settled in, Pat encountered Rosemary, a demon who possessed her body and turned her life upside down. When the family steps in to “save” Pat, they commit her to a psychiatric hospital where she sees an old photo of a nurse who looks just like her demon Rosemary. Season two kicks off four months later, when Pat’s insurance runs out and she is released from the psychiatric hospital early. Pat returns home, determined to pick up the pieces of her broken family, but she quickly finds out her children don’t need her, Terry doesn’t remember her and to make matters worse, Pat’s new neighbor Ruth looks exactly like Rosemary. Meanwhile, the house starts to reveal the shocking secrets of its dark past. Every mother feels like they live in an insane asylum, but Pat may be right! “Shining Vale” Online Twitter: @ShiningVale | @STARZ Instagram: @ShiningValeSTARZ | @STARZ Facebook: @ShiningValeSTARZ | @STARZ Join the conversation with #ShiningVale and #STARZ About STARZ STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company. About Warner Bros. Television One of the entertainment industry’s most-respected providers of original programming since its founding in 1955, Warner Bros. Television delivers scripted dramas, comedies, limited series, and original movies for multiple platforms. As of August 2023, WBTV is producing nearly 50 scripted projects for Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max, external streaming platforms, cable, and the five U.S. broadcast networks. About Lionsgate Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium global subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world. The Company's film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by an 18,000-title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.’ Written by John Edward Betancourt Still from BLOOD FLOWER Courtesy of Shudder. A Shudder Release.
This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.
It is definitely safe to say that coming-of-age stories are synonymous with drama. Since they often feature a teenager or pre-teen that is barreling toward an emotional and mental awakening, one grounded in some very real-life problems. Such as losing a family member in a manner that forces the young one in question… to grow up before our eyes and uncover what matters in this life. Or they go on a powerful and sweeping journey of discovery and self-discovery. Wherein they once again… learn what it means to live on this Earth and be part of the human experience, and going this route from a storytelling perspective, also allows for the story to be relatable in nature. Which is precisely why this type of movie rarely jumps ship to another genre. Because drama gives it everything it needs to thrive and function, but now and again, the right story does allow for that to happen. But even, that kind of shift is rare, especially when it comes to genres that don’t normally look at such subject matter, so that the purity of this type of story is preserved. But as we enter this new phase in entertainment, where creatives want to challenge norms and experiment with new concepts, there are filmmakers out there, working to see if the coming-of-age story can work in unique genres that we normally wouldn’t associate with them, such as horror. And it just so happens that a brand-new feature on Shudder attempts to fuse terror and the wonder of life together, and that makes Blood Flower, quite the fascinating ride. One that of course, leaves you, dear reader, wondering as well… if it is successful in its endeavors? To which the answer is… a resounding yes. Thanks in large part to its plot. For this is a story that introduces us to Iqbal, a sixteen-year-old that harbors some unique gifts. For his family’s understanding of the supernatural allows for him, and his family members, to see things that are not apparent to others; the evil spirits that lurk in the darkness. Which is why his family makes a point of helping people keep those dark spirits at bay. But one fine day, when disaster strikes during what should have been a routine cleansing of evil spirits, Iqbal finds himself in a strained place. Where he doesn’t know his purpose, or if his gifts are worthy of having in hand. Prompting him to really think about his future, his standing, and of course… the safety of his family. Since new threats are emerging around him, and that will of course force him to make a decision as to what his path in life is going to be. 
Which is… shockingly… the perfect way to introduce a coming-of-age story into horror. Because let’s be honest… those are all elements that come from that type of story, and they are presented here in a smooth and organic manner that works and gives the audience something to relate to when it comes to Iqbal’s plight. After all, we too spent time worrying about who we would become and our purpose when we came of age as well. Not to mention, family loss, and strife helped shape some of that for us, for better or for worse. So, those elements truly draw us in, and give us the emotional connection we need to root for Iqbal and his safety and the safety of his family and watching him handle those elements and grow before our eyes… presents a flawless coming-of-age story that works well within the framework of a genre that traditionally doesn’t present such concepts. Granted, that’s not to say that horror is vapid, since it is hyper-intelligent as a genre. But this is something new, and it is welcome.
However, while it is refreshing to enjoy a horror film that features this kind of concept and this kind of depth, make no mistake about it… this is a scary story through and through and it makes sure to never stray from those particular roots. Courtesy of those evil spirits that Iqbal and his family must fight. For they bring about some fascinating scares, thanks in large part to the fact that this movie more or less pays tribute to every single kind of scare out there. For you’ll find jump scares here, shadow scares, loud noises and special effects that unsettle, alongside plenty of gore and plenty of unsettling concepts involving possession and what the afterlife looks like. Which results in a woefully bleak and powerfully emotional experience, the kind that leaves you breathless when this movie has come to a close. All of which brings forth, a magnificent and refreshing horror story. One that really does resonate on a fundamental level with the viewer and one that genuinely terrifies with its fascinating visuals and scares, courtesy of the unknown, really. Not to mention, it is well-acted, well-written and really does leave the viewer with a lot to think about when it comes to loss, life, and why we are here in the first place. And that… is what great horror does. It leaves us thinking, and it explores life through and through, and all of these elements definitely make this movie a worthwhile watch, since it really is that rare horror feature that hits all the right notes, spills the right amount of guts and finds a way to keep us up late at night, and hopefully you give this little gem a look, because it really is a breath of fresh air courtesy of the new ground it breaks within the genre. Watch ‘Blood Flower’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon in Episode 101 of ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ - ‘L’âme Perdue’. (Photo Courtesy of Stéphanie Branchu/AMC.)
Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Series Premiere of ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’. Also, this piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the series being covered here wouldn’t exist.
Thirteen years ago on Halloween night, when the series premiere of The Walking Dead arrived on AMC, we began a journey that treated us to wonders untold. Wherein we experienced a rollercoaster of emotions, as characters we came to love and adore, suffered greatly, and overcame incredible odds to survive another day in a world where civilization had collapsed, and where humanity was outnumbered by walking corpses that craved human flesh and the flesh of anything living. But of the many characters we met on that evening and along the way, one stood quite tall above the rest, a man named Daryl Dixon. In part because, he was new to this franchise, for there was no Daryl in the comic book series but also because… he was unlike any other character in this fascinating universe. For he was a man with a difficult and painful past, that had grown beyond it to the best of his abilities and learned how to survive the worst of the worst moments. And while he would sometimes stumble and sometimes struggle… he would always find his way back to the light and to the people that cared deeply for him. Making him nothing short of an infallible rock in that series, one that everyone could rely upon and who in the later years of the series would lead the good people of the Alexandria Alliance to better days. All of which made Daryl one of the most popular characters in the franchise, one so beloved that he received his own spin-off series once the flagship show came to its end, leaving all of us to wonder… what kind of story would we be treated to down the line? Well as it turns out, we no longer have to ponder upon that question… for last night saw the premiere of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, and ‘L’âme Perdue’ wasted little time in informing us… that this was going to be a Daryl story unlike any other. In large part because… Daryl steps into a bold new world in this show. For we are not near the Commonwealth or somewhere else in the United States as this franchise has often taken the time to showcase. No instead, this story opens up on the shores of France, with Daryl no less… placing him far away from home in a strange land that he doesn’t know in the slightest and that allows for some incredible moments to take place. The kind that showcases first and foremost, the impact of the apocalypse on the people of France, and Europe, for that matter as well. Which allows for us to bear witness to one of the most devastated corners of the zombiepocalypse we’ve ever seen. Since France and Europe were clearly hit hard by the plague of living death that descended upon humanity, giving rise to a bleak environment for Daryl to explore… one filled with new dangers. For we also get to meet in this series… new variant walkers. Something that of course first popped up in The Walking Dead: World Beyond and eventually TWD, and that makes sense. Since World Beyond established that the beginning of the end originated in this place, and well… whatever experiments happened here… resulted in real nightmares for certain. Since Daryl encounters what is later referred to as the Burner Walker. One that can burn flesh and create infections that will kill and resurrect a person. Giving rise to a new threat to be vigilant against, and of course… old haunts are present here too. Since Daryl oft encounters some ugly souls in this world. People hardened in the wake of the apocalypse that only worry about their own and that gives rise to some unexpected twists.  Romain Levi as Codron in Episode 101 of ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’ - ‘L’âme Perdue’. (Photo Courtesy of Stéphanie Branchu/AMC.)
Because the Burners and some unsavory folks… and kindness… lead/bring Daryl Dixon to a nearby convent for healing and rest and relaxation and it is there that we learn… that Daryl is in fact, quite fallible after all. For there are hints in this story, of him working to escape his former life in search of something greater, something we come to learn about in his discussions with a nun named Isabelle. Giving rise to the reality that peace time did not settle well with a man such as Daryl. Who is bound by moving forward and challenges, and that adds new depth to this character. Since clearly, he is lost here, and broken and that leaves us wondering exactly what shattered his soul and what it will take to help him find faith in himself and others again, and this place may provide it to him.
Primarily through… a new acquaintance and a new mission. For Isabelle and her sisters in Christ, are firm believers that the end of everything was nothing more than a transitional period, a purgatory for humanity if you will, and that eventually… the second coming of the Messiah will take place and that He is among humanity now. For Laurent is a young man that is quite gifted and empathetic, and he really believes in a better tomorrow, and the inhabitants of this convent, truly believe that if Laurent is given the chance to meet with the right people and thrive… he can restore hope to the world and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity. Provided of course… he can survive the trip. Since there remains… some genuinely unsavory characters in this story with agendas their own. One of whom is a man named Codron. A ruthless individual that only believes in the nefarious cause that he stands behind, and that brings about great trouble for Laurent and Isabelle when he feels the need to avenge the death of some of his men, the kind that only Daryl can quell. For few have seen the cruelty of man as he has, and that leads to a grand setup for the rest of this series. One where Daryl agrees to escort young Lauren to his destination in exchange for safe passage back to America and the life he left behind and of course… trouble awaits this motley crew. Since Codron walks away from a battle with Daryl, barely, and will undoubtedly work to put down the man that embarrassed him in combat, and that ending… also hints deeply at something greater going on in the north. Something unsettling and unwholesome, run by a woman named Genet. All of which, brought forth quite the amazing series premiere. One that features a new tone for the franchise, a new tone for Daryl’s character and the beginning of a journey that is clearly going to offer us so much. Since it will obviously be grounded in explorations regarding the nature of faith, the power of hope and what is means to find redemption in dark times. All of which it seems, Daryl is desperately searching for and well, sign us up. Because that’s refreshing stuff to find not only in this universe, but zombie-themed storytelling in general. Since they oft focus on the darkest parts of who we are and well, all this premiere does… is generate incredible excitement for things to come. Because we really are on an incredible journey now, with a character we love and adore and want to see find his way again, and hopefully he does, because as Laurent and so many others have pointed out over the past decade or so… Daryl does deserve his own happy ending. Until next time. To learn more about what cast members, Anne Charrier (Genet), Romain Levi (Codron), & Louis Puech Scigliuzzi (Laurent) think of the central themes of season one of this show, visit our preview article for ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’. Watch ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’
Written by John Edward Betancourt Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon in ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’. (Photo Courtesy of Stéphanie Branchu/AMC.)
It’s rare in this day and age to see an actor take over programming on television. In large part because this era of peak television keeps things rolling with a bevy of shows and stories. But there are some mega-stars emerging in this era, ones that are indeed deserving of their own programming blocks and one name that fits that mold is Norman Reedus. For he is a household name at this point, and folks absolutely love watching him in anything he does because of the cool honesty he brings to his roles and that is why it should come as no surprise that Norman is about to enjoy his own night -- no wait -- week of programming starting on Sunday.
For AMC Networks is will be celebrating ‘A Night with Norman’ or Une Nuit avec Norman as it goes in French. For Sunday night will see the series premiere of the highly anticipated new series, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. Wherein Norman reprises his iconic role. And that will be followed up by the season six premiere of Ride with Norman Reedus. The beloved series that sees Norman explore destinations around the world in great depth via motorcycle and with a supremely cool friend and we’re not kidding when we say Norman is taking over programming. For this event will be broadcast on multiple networks within the AMC Networks family, such as AMC, AMC+, BBC America, IFC, Sundance TV, and WE tv. Yet, as mentioned before, the celebration doesn’t end there. Because on the 15th, Greg Nicotero, a TWD legend and an Executive Producer of Daryl Dixon, will drop by a special episode of The Last Drive-in with Joe Bob Briggs. Which will focus on this new chapter in the TWD Universe and well… that truly is a powerhouse way to showcase Norman and all of his immense talents as an actor. And as an added bonus, AMC was kind enough to share with us, a bevy of teasers and featurettes, and all the details regarding this upcoming celebration. Which we of course are happy to share with you, in anticipation of one incredible night of Norman related programming. ‘Tune in Sunday, September 10 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT for a “Night with Norman,” (Une Nuit avec Norman) beginning with the debut of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, starring Norman Reedus, as AMC Networks’ linear channels BBC America, IFC, SundanceTV and WE tv join AMC and AMC+ for a multi-network event for the premiere of the highly anticipated next series in the Walking Dead Universe. A new season of Ride with Norman Reedus will immediately follow at 10:28 p.m. ET/PT on AMC and AMC+. The Daryl celebrations continue with a special episode of The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs featuring The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon series premiere airing across AMC, AMC+ TV and Shudder TV on Friday, September 15 at 9:00 p.m. ET. Special guest and Executive Producer of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Greg Nicotero, will be joining Joe Bob to discuss all the insider details of the European apocalypse. Following the initial broadcast, the special will be available for on demand viewing on Shudder and AMC+ starting Friday, September 22. Additionally, AMC+ will offer exclusive access to TWD Daryl Dixon: Cast Diaries in-season for the very first time. These ‘bonus episodes’ will stream each Thursday following the Sunday premieres. In The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, Daryl (Reedus) washes ashore in France and struggles to piece together how he got there and why. The series tracks his journey across a broken but resilient France as he hopes to find a way back home. As he makes the journey, the connections he forms along the way complicate his ultimate plan. The series stars Reedus, Clémence Poésy, Adam Nagaitis, Anne Charrier, Eriq Ebouaney, Laika Blanc Francard, Romain Levi and Louis Puech Scigliuzzi and is executive produced by Scott M. Gimple, Showrunner David Zabel, Reedus, Greg Nicotero, Angela Kang, Brian Bockrath, Daniel Percival and Jason Richman. Ride with Norman Reedus’ sixth season features the Walking Dead star and motorcycle enthusiast Norman Reedus on epic road trips around the world. Each episode features Reedus and a riding companion- a fellow actor, musician, or friend, exploring local culture and seeking adventure on the road. Guests this season include Keanu Reeves, Adri Law, Josh Holloway and Johnny Knoxville. Ride with Norman Reedus is produced by Left/Right (This American Life, The Circus, James Cameron’s Story of Science Fiction) with Ken Druckerman, Banks Tarver and Anneka Jones serving as Executive Producers along with Reedus.’ ‘The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’
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