It is definitely safe to say that every creative individual out there, has some big goals in mind when they get into the industry. In fact, if there is one that is commonplace it would likely be that anyone that gets into the business would someday like to direct and understandably so. After all, that’s the big chair, where the bucks stops and where… a vision is realized, and well… this fall… one creative individual will see that dream come to fruition. For earlier today it was announced that Shudder, the premiere horror streamer, acquired the rights to the upcoming demonic family drama film, The Demon Disorder, which just so happens to be, the directorial debut of special effects wizard, Steven Boyle.
 
Giving rise to that big moment for Steven, who now will have the world enjoy the world enjoy his vision later this year, and how cool is that? Going from special effects guru to the man in the chair that guides everything to bring forth an amazing story. Which it will be, since Shudder doesn’t snag the rights to just any old feature, and because… there’s proof. Because Shudder also released a new trailer for the movie, which we will share with you now, alongside some details on this acquisition and this film, to properly celebrate Steven’s achievement and to help us all count down the days until the arrival of The Demon Disorder.  
 
‘Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural, today announced the acquisition of THE DEMON DISORDER from special effects master Steven Boyle (THE MATRIX Trilogy, THE HOBBIT Trilogy, KING KONG). The streamer also released the trailer for the highly anticipated film, which marks Boyle’s feature directorial debut. Starring John Noble (THE LORD OF THE RINGS Trilogy), Charles Cottier, Christian Willis, and Dirk Hunter, the film will make its exclusive streaming debut on Shudder in Fall 2024. 
 
The Australian demonic family drama centers on Graham, a man haunted by his past since the death of his father and the estrangement from his two brothers. Jake, the middle brother, contacts Graham claiming that something is horribly wrong: their youngest brother Phillip is possessed by their deceased father. Graham reluctantly agrees to go and see for himself. With the three brothers back together, they soon realize they are unprepared for the forces against them and learn that the sins of their past will not stay hidden. But how do you defeat a presence that knows you inside and out? An anger so powerful it refuses to stay dead?
 
“We are thrilled that THE DEMON DISORDER has reached its final resting place with our friends at Shudder,” said Boyle.  “It’s a community and fanbase that we hold in the highest esteem and we couldn’t be happier to be on this journey with them!”
 
“After years of a creating a range of elaborate visual experiences through his work as a special effects designer on iconic films, we’re thrilled to give Steven Boyle a platform for his feature length directorial debut with THE DEMON DISORDER,” said Samuel Zimmerman, Head of Programming for Shudder.  “Full of impressive body horror that fans have come to expect from this master of effects, Boyle’s film is an engrossing story about breaking generational curses that viewers will find both unsettling and amusing.” 
 
The deal was negotiated by Emily Gotto on behalf of Shudder and James Norrie and Nina Kolokouri at AMP on behalf of the filmmakers.
 
Written and directed by Boyle, along with Toby Osborne(PINDAM) as writer, THE DEMON DISORDER is produced by Boyle and Ally Muller and executive produced by Michael Spierig and Peter Spierig.
 
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 Original Content is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Over the last few years, Shudder has introduced audiences to groundbreaking and critically acclaimed films including Rob Savage’s HOST, Jayro Bustamante’s LA LLORONA, Phil Tippett’s MAD GOD, Coralie Fargeat’s REVENGE, Joko Anwar’s SATAN’S SLAVES, Josh Ruben’s SCARE ME, Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK, Christian Tafdrup’s SPEAK NO EVIL, Chloe Okuno’s WATCHER, Demián Rugna‘s WHEN EVIL LURKS, and the latest in the V/H/S film anthology franchise, as well as the fan favorite TV series THE BOULET BROTHERS’ DRAGULA, Greg Nicotero’s CREEPSHOW, and THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’. To revisit the Season One Finale, click here.
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There comes a point in all of our lives, where we grow quite curious about who we are. Simply because we don’t find our purpose and direction, and outright meaning right away, when we set out into the world. Some of us float, some of us enter new chapters without giving them any agency or thought, and well… a life changing event or something eye opening tends to snap us out of our slacker reverie or gives us pause. Wherein… we opt to decide to really learn about the person we see in the mirror. Specifically, what makes us happy? What angers us? What do we want out of this life and what kind of person do we want to be?

Which in turn, puts us on that quest. Where we try to find ourselves, find out where we belong and answer all of those questions and that process, is indeed worthwhile. Since we do indeed discover all, we need to know about ourselves and act accordingly. But what’s fascinating about this process and how we perceive and discuss it, is that we don’t really spotlight the fact… that it isn’t always positive or swift in nature. Because not everyone finds what they need right away due to a complex search or some darkness in their lives, the kind that complicates... everything. But we should discuss that more to temper expectations and to help people understand the search for personal truth isn’t always sunshine and rainbows and that’s why the season two premiere of Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire is of note.

Because ‘What Can the Damned Really Say to the Damned’ happens to be a story that explores that more difficult search for personal truth and that sense of belonging, and it accomplished that feat by catching up with Louis and Claudia in Europe. In fact, this story was set in the midst of World War II, wherein this duo was searching high and low… for more of their own kind. Because Claudia was still soured on the incident involving Lestat, and she was deeply curious as to whether or not the vampire had a greater purpose in the universe than to be sorrowful and angry creatures that could only kill and impart harm upon one another. So, what better place to find purpose than Europe. Where the vampire was born and well… that’s where the central theme came into play.

​For the search was a disaster through and through. Because this duo only found heartbreak and sorrow, and ugliness worse than anything a vampire could conduct, courtesy of the Nazi Regime, and there were no signs of vampires from lore. There were echoes of course, but nothing more and that left this duo to their sourness. To the ugliness they left behind. In fact, Louis often saw Lestat at his lowest points and this duo also came to learn… continued sorrow can poison blood. Because their meals weren’t fulfilling and left them with minimal energy and well, it left Louis and Claudia wondering if they’d find anything at all. Or if they were alone, and if wandering and anger was their purpose for eternity now… that is until a surprise came forth in Romania.
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In that, they came across a village where superstition and worry regarding vampires was rampant, and where the locals refused to talk about it in detail, and that excited Claudia to no end. For it meant more vampires had to be here, and that there was a chance at last she could understand her future, her purpose, her direction… only to be disappointed. Because all she found were corrupted vampires and broken spirits. Which left her of the belief that she was to forever be a monster. But Louis informed her, she could forge her own path, with him, and life could be vastly different. Which brought them to Paris and a chance at a new beginning and a fine reminder of the lesson at hand. Since Claudia was in fact, a person mired in roadblocks and frustrations on her path to self-discovery.

Which can happen when there is trauma to overcome, or genuine darkness coming forth from one’s current situation or if one’s disposition is poisoned with anger and defensiveness. But thankfully, there is a way forward and sometimes it is just trying something new and forging a path to see what sticks or what comes forth. All of which made for a thoughtful and relatable episode, and an emotional one at that. Since you could not help but feel for Claudia and Louis, and their lonesome quest to be more than what Lestat and the broken vampire here transformed into, and that quest, will give rise to a fascinating season of storytelling. Wherein more lessons regarding the human condition will come forth from two beings that deeply miss it, and it will be fascinating to see what those lessons will be, and to immerse ourselves in more iconography from this legendary story as season two of this magnificent show continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘Reginald the Vampire’.
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There was a time, not that long ago, where the vampire story was the butt of everyone’s jokes. Mainly because, a ‘sparkling’ story… allowed for the creature to become something of a lampoon of itself. To the point where vampire stories weren’t anything to write home about since everyone was chasing the next, kitschy thing in the world of the fang. But thankfully, those days are changing and fast, and everywhere we look, the vampire is reclaiming its originality and reclaiming its standing as one of storytelling’s most iconic and pertinent monsters. One that can explore so much about the human condition and one particular series that’s helping with this sharp-toothed revolution is Reginald the Vampire on SYFY.

For season one of this series really did offer up an amazing premise for us to sink our fangs into. Because one simply cannot go wrong with a story that features an everyman turning into a vampire, and where that same man… explores a world, he doesn’t understand while also trying to figure out his own transformed life. Which brought forth a fascinating season of storytelling that shattered tropes and brought the laughs and outright gave us an engaging story that we could not stop watching and well, the best news of all, is that the show is back on the air and is eager to continue to make us smile, all while offering fresh new ideas for the genre to explore, as evidenced by the season two premiere of this delightful series.

For ‘The Pompatus of Love’ picked up some time after the wild events of the season one finale, wherein there should have been epic tension and trouble awaiting Reginald and his friends. As is often the case in vampire stories when a power struggle comes into play. But here, Reginald and the gang, were just enjoying life once again. In fact, this story focused heavily on the wonder of love and whether or not that was something Reginald could enjoy at last with peace surrounding him. So, he pondered deeply upon how best to woo Em, and in his mind, the best way to make that happen was through grand gestures and impressive moments that would melt her heart and bring her to him. But alas, Reginald came to learn a valuable lesson in going that route. 

In that, honesty matters most, and that respect should come into play when the person we love isn’t 100% on board with our feelings. Because we cannot control others, we can only let them decide the path they want to take with us. Which Em did express, and Reginald did hold to. Which brought about, a very human tale. One grounded in concepts you don’t see in vampire stories all that often, and it was refreshing to see honesty and integrity themes in a horror comedy. Plus, it also featured some amazing trope-busting elements as well. Such as how Maurice wants to be a vastly different kind of leader, one that is transformative. Plus, the danger trope here took quite the unique turn thanks to the best slushies in the land.

But of course, there are concerns and worries ahead for Reginald. Since the angels won’t stay at bay forever, regardless of how many slushies they ingest and of course, those dreams are of concern. But while we wait to see how that all plays out, we can enjoy… one refreshing and original season premiere. One that genuinely showcased the wonder of the vampire and what it can accomplish from a storytelling standpoint if real care goes into the story and real gravity is given to what the monster stands for. Which means we are going to be in for one delightful season of storytelling, one that will continue to build on the new legacy the vampire is forging, and one that will make us smile with more moments that are hopefully as epic as watching Reginald sing ‘I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That).’ Until next time.

It really is quite amazing how streaming has evolved over the past few years. Because not only has the format solidified itself as a new bastion for quality television and quality film, but several streamers out there have garnered amazing respect. To the point where their lineup and work, has found its way into hybrid releases. Wherein a movie they back or craft, gets a full-on theatrical run before heading to the service. Because what they bring forth is so good and so poignant that it requires the true theater experience and one such streamer that is seeing this happen often now, is Shudder.
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Simply because, they are home to the best horror movies around, and those films are in demand, plain and simple and that’s allowed for Shudder to revitalize independent horror, and showcase incredible films in the classic manner, and that demand is showing no signs of slowing down, as evidenced by the recent announcement regarding NewFest. For it will be home to an early, world premiere, screening of the upcoming psychological thriller, Haze. Which is set to debut on Shudder this fall, but NewFest is ready to showcase it to the world early, and to properly offer this epic news the respect it deserves, here are all the details regarding this early screening, courtesy of Shudder and NewFest. 

‘Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thriller and the supernatural announced today that HAZE (formerly known as TREATMENT), the highly anticipated psychological thriller from Matthew Fifer(CICADA), will make its world premiere at New York’s LGBTQ Film Festival, NewFest. The Shudder Original is set for an exclusive streaming premiere on the service this Fall 2024.
 
“When so much of the industry is playing it safe, Shudder continues to be fearless in exploring niche genres and empowering queer filmmakers -- I’m lucky to be working with them and honored to have this film make its world premiere at NewFest,” said Fifer. “HAZE is inspired by the horror films I grew up watching with my grandmother. It was made with a small but fierce crew of collaborators, working with limited resources and a lot of love.”
 
A young journalist (Cole Doman) returns home to investigate the unsolved deaths at an abandoned psychiatric center. As he dances with the shadows of his past and a mysterious new man in his life, his family history and the town's secrets begin to converge in this evocative psychological thriller.
 
Written and directed by Fifer, HAZE is produced by Jeffrey Winter, Ramfis Myrthil, Stephen Israel, Drew Sklar, and stars Cole Doman (MUTT), Brian J. Smith (SENSE8), David Pittu (HALSTON), and Annie Golden (ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK). 
 
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 Original Content is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Over the last few years, Shudder has introduced audiences to groundbreaking and critically acclaimed films including Rob Savage’s HOST, Jayro Bustamante’s LA LLORONA, Phil Tippett’s MAD GOD, Coralie Fargeat’s REVENGE, Joko Anwar’s SATAN’S SLAVES, Josh Ruben’s SCARE ME, Kyle Edward Ball’s SKINAMARINK, Christian Tafdrup’s SPEAK NO EVIL, Chloe Okuno’s WATCHER, Demián Rugna‘s WHEN EVIL LURKS, and the latest in the V/H/S film anthology franchise, as well as the fan favorite TV series THE BOULET BROTHERS’DRAGULA, Greg Nicotero’s CREEPSHOW, and THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Three Finale of ‘Chucky’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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For the most part, horror stories involving a villainous monster, end in a supremely similar manner. Wherein the heroes discover the true weakness of the monster they’re battling, allowing for them to exploit it and defeat the beast in the third act of the story. Which brings forth an epic conclusion where good triumphs, while of course… setting the stage for the monster’s return. Because that’s part of the process too, to keep a franchise alive and to help the story find creative ways to kill off the old heroes to bring in new ones. But once in a while, you encounter a horror story that wants so badly to defy that and give us something new and that’s why last night’s season three finale of the hit SYFY/USA Network series, Chucky, is of note.

Because ‘Final Destination’ was that unconventional tale that shattered old tropes and norms and it accomplished such an amazing feat by way of a wild journey through the afterlife. Because Jake encountered quite a few surprises in the beyond. Such as his dad, whom he did his best to make peace with, before facing the entire spiritual legacy of Charles Lee Ray. From age 65 to every Chucky we’ve ever seen. Which allowed for Fiona Dourif to shine alongside her father in an epic and incredible manner and where… things went awry with Good Chucky. Because despite Jake’s hard pleas to have Good Chucky sacrifice himself and save the day, he refused to. Granted he offered up a nugget of information as to where Caroline might have been, but once that was in the open… he revealed a growing evil inside his ailing spirit. Since he was part of a ruse to have Chucky possess Jake.

All so he could wreak havoc in the White House and get another physical kill before the place burned down at Pryce’s behest. And once he returned, and tasted blood and escaped with his friends and Grant, the Chucky/Jake hybrid led them to the residence of one Wendell Wilkins. A sorrowful man, played brilliantly by icon John Waters, who was harboring a lot of secrets. Such as the fact that his home was indeed where Caroline was hiding, and that… he had the prototype Good Guy doll in his stead, along with the prototype for the doll that Tiffany once inhabited. Oh, and he also worshipped Damballa and was eager to help Chucky with a devastating plan to win the day. One that involved first, freeing Chucky from Jake’s body… because Jake needed to be himself.

For Wilkins had created something special for this trio, horrific little marionettes that their spirits were to inhabit for all time, and well… Chucky and Caroline helped make that happen and then, prepared to move into a new chapter in their lives, with an old friend along for the ride. Because it also turned out, that Tiffany managed to escape after all thanks to a last minute and bloody save at her execution. Which brought her back to her Chucky and back into her doll since the police would be searching for Jennifer Tilly until the end of time. Reuniting them romantically at last and his unholy reunion also allowed, for Nica to pay the piper. Since she followed Tiffany to the Wilkins' homestead, only to find pain and suffering and potentially worse if he so wished.

But in the end, the bad guys won the day, despite the wondrous plain laid forth by our heroes. Because Chucky is alive and well in his favorite body again, and he appears to have satisfied Damballa, and Tiff is at his side, and Caroline is ready to care for them all, and well… it doesn’t get more unconventional… and brilliant than that. For that was a bold way to bring this story home, and quite frankly… set the stage for a new chapter for the series. Because our trio of heroes are basically gone and Chucky is free to Chucky as only, he can and well, that means… we need a fourth season of this show for certain. Something we can apparently help with by calling that number that popped up at the end of the episode and hopefully this series gets that renewal. Because it’s heading into bold new territory beyond this point, and we simply need more.

It really is quite amazing how much amazing content Shudder sends our way year-round. Because every single month we are treated to terrifying tales of terror that genuinely unsettle us and wow us or make us smile and laugh if the story is a horror comedy. Not to mention, there’s usually something original and refreshing for us to enjoy and well, it would seem that Shudder is showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to its quest to provide us with the best of the best in horror, month in and month out.
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For recently, Shudder released its programming lineup for May 2024, and it packed to the brim with horrifying delights. Such as a powerhouse sequel to a classic and beloved horror film, an inventive and emotionally charged horror feature and of course… more Joe Bob Briggs and Darcy the Mail Girl. Because you can never go wrong with that duo, and they will join the usual amazing additions to the Shudder library and well, to properly pay this lineup the respect it deserves, here is everything coming to your favorite horror streamer in May 2024, courtesy of Shudder.  

Directed by Ole Bornedal
Streaming On Shudder May 17
Available in US, CA, UKI, AU,NZ

Synopsis
In the sequel to the Danish horror classic, Martin’s daughter, Emma takes up a night watch job to find out what happened to her parents almost 30 years ago. A meeting with Wörmer in his cell pulls the serial killer out of his coma and sets in motion a chain of fateful events. Starring Nikolaj Coster-Waldau and Kim Bodnia.
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*Streaming film premiere of Nightwatch (1994), the Danish original film from director Ole Bornedal, also debuts on Friday, May 17

Directed by Robert Morgan
Streaming On Shudder May 31
Available in US, CA, UKI, AU,NZ

Synopsis
Ella Blake is a stop-motion animator who is struggling to control her demons after the loss of her overbearing mother. Suddenly alone in the world, she embarks upon the creation of a macabre new puppet film, which soon becomes the battleground for her sanity. As Ella's mind starts to fracture, the characters in her animated film take on a terrifying life of their own, and the unleashed power of her imagination threatens to destroy her. Starring Aisling Franciosi, Tom York and Jaz Hutchins. **Winner for Best Director at Fantastic Fest. 

Shudder Original Series
 
Season 6 Episodes Continue Biweekly LIVE Premieres on Shudder TV
Friday, May 10; Debuts on-demand Sunday, May 12
Friday, May 24; Debuts on-demand Sunday, May 26
Available in US and CA 

Synopsis
The supersized sixth season continues with all-new episodes debuting biweekly.

May 1
 
The Jester
A malevolent being known as The Jester terrorizes the inhabitants of a small town on Halloween night, including two estranged sister who must come together to find a way to defeat this evil entity.
 
Blood and Black Lace
A masked, shadowy killer brutally murders the models of a scandalous fashion house in Rome.
 
YellowBrickRoad
1940: the entire population of Friar, New Hampshire walked up a winding mountain trail, leaving everything behind. 2008: the first official expedition into the wilderness attempts to solve the mystery of the lost citizens of Friar.
 
Mean Spirited
A failed YouTuber’s weekend in the Poconos turns into a nightmare when a demon joins the party.
 
The Toxic Avenger
Tromaville has a monstrous new hero. The Toxic Avenger is born when meek mop boy Melvin falls into a vat of toxic waste. Now evildoers will have a lot to lose.
 
The Toxic Avenger Part II
The Toxic Avenger is tricked into traveling to Tokyo to search for his estranged father, leaving Tromaville open to complete domination by an evil corporation.
 
The Toxic Avenger Part III: The Last Temptation of Toxie
Toxie finds he has nothing to do as a superhero, as he has ridden his city of evil. He decides to go to work for a major corporation, which he discovers may be the evilest of all his adversaries.
 
TA4 – Citizen Toxic: The Toxi Avenger IV
The Toxic Avenger must defend his friends from his own evil alternate universe doppelgänger, The Noxious Offender.
 
May 6
 
Mother, May I?
When Anya starts behaving like her fiancée’s recently deceased mother, Emmet must confront his deepest traumas to free his fiancée from this bewildering possession.
 
Herd
When a woman trying to outrun her past ends up trapped between a zombie outbreak and warring militia groups, she must fight to find her way back home.
 
Gorgo
Greedy sailors capture a giant lizard off the coast of Ireland and sell it to a London circus, inciting the wrath of the creature’s mother.
 
The Giant Gila Monster
A giant lizard terrorizes a rural Texas community, and a heroic teenager attempts to destroy the creature.
 
The Stone Tape
A research team from an electronics company moves into an old Victorian house to start work on finding a new recording medium. When team member Jill Greeley witnesses a ghost, team director Peter Brock decides not only to analyze the apparition, which he believes is a psychic impression trapped in a stone wall (dubbed a "stone tape"), but also to exorcise it--with terrifying results.
 
May 8
 
Mother’s Day (1980)
Three young women are tormented by an insane matriarch and her depraved sons.
*The Last Drive-In: Mother’s Day episode also available.
 
 
May 13
 
Landlocked
Summoned to his soon-to-be demolished childhood home, Mason discovers a video camera that can see into the past, driving him to record as many memories as possible before the doomed house is destroyed.
 
Fatal Games
A mad javelin thrower kills teenagers in the school. All promising athletes are executed in the most brutal way.
 
 
May 15
 
Combat Shock
A dangerously disturbed Vietnam veteran struggles with life 15 years after his return home, and slowly falls into insanity from his gritty urban lifestyle.
 
 
May 20
 
Down
When the elevators in New York’s 102-story Millennium Building start to malfunction, mechanic Mark Newman is sent to find the cause. After a series of gruesome and deadly “accidents” occur, Mark joins forces with spunky reporter Jennifer.
 
The Lift
A lift technician finds himself drawn into a web of mystery and peril as he investigates the perplexing deadly accidents occurring in the elevators of a new office building.
 
 
May 22
 
The Strangler
An overweight lab technician with low self-esteem, brought on by his dominant mother, becomes a serial killer of nurses.
 
 
May 24
 
Deathdream
A young soldier killed in the Vietnam War inexplicably shows up at his family home on the night of his death.
 
 
May 27
 
Graduation Day (1981)
A masked killer begins murdering students on the school track team after a track runner dies upon completion of a 30-second 200-meter race.

One truth about the horror genre that fans of it and fans of cinema can all agree upon, is that horror stories truly do an amazing job of exploring our deepest and darkest fears. For there are so many horror stories that explore our deep-rooted fears of the dark, and that which goes bump in the night. Not to mention… the genre also goes far deeper than one might expect regarding our fears. Since it has also deeply pondered upon our fears of death, of how we are terrified of transforming into monsters ourselves, and in more recent years, it has even taken the time to think upon the impact that trauma and loss has upon the human psyche… since there are horrors to be found there.
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Not to mention… this is also a genre that knows how to hold up a mirror to modern society and explore our flaws and our concerns. But what’s amazing, is that despite being able to explore so much, and showcase terrors untold and introduce us to all kinds of unique monsters along the way, the genre is by no means perfect… and sometimes neglects opportunities to shock us and scare us through the simplest means or fears possible. Take for instance, our fear of bugs and creepy crawlies, or spiders… to be more specific. For the genre simply has not made great efforts to explore those fears and why we harbor them. Granted, there are exceptions to the rule, but for every Arachnophobia released, there’s plenty of parody stories and/or films a la Kingdom of the Spiders to be found.

But with the demand for new stories at an all time, and with so many creatives eager to explore corners of our fears that have been neglected, it would seem the tide is turning regarding the genre and its need to bring us to new and scary places, as evidenced by the latest release on Shudder. For Infested is a story that offers chills and thrills and preys upon our deep-rooted fear of the spider, and it accomplishes this feat by way of a simple yet impactful storyline. One where we are introduced to a young man named Kaleb who has sadly, made a poor choice. For he picked up a strange spider from a dealer of the random, one unlike any other mankind has ever seen. For this little monster, has a massive appetite and can breed quickly, and grow and adapt based upon the needs of its environment and it, has escaped into Kaleb’s apartment building and now he and his friends must fight to survive a rapidly growing nightmare that is relentless and starving.

Which is… the perfect way to offer up a scary spider story. One that truly plucks at our fears of them. Because the creative team here has given life to a force of nature, one that plays by its own rules and will stop at nothing to survive. That brings forth a bevy of unique spiders and unique scenarios that aren’t familiar or cliché in the slightest. Instead, the audience is treated to new scares and creative moments involving these mysterious spiders, the kind that truly get under your skin and build anxiety and at times, make you wonder if your skin is crawling because something is there or because your mind is playing tricks on you and that leads… to one terrifying feature. One that makes you feel uncomfortable because the unknown yet familiar is on display and you simply have no idea what kinds of horrors this new species of spider will impart upon the residents of this complex.
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But what’s amazing is that the refreshing and unique scares aren’t the only reason this movie reaches us on a fundamental level. For we’d be remiss to not point out that the writing is top notch and clever and it offers up scenarios that feel real and harbor echoes of our own ugly encounters with the eight-legged monsters we fear. Not to mention, the characters are also incredibly relatable and incredibly real. Which allows for us to genuinely care about them, and their fight for survival as they battle these awful little monsters through and through and of course… there are echoes of commentary to be found here as well to make sure this movie appeals to all. Since it does feature moments that feel familiar from the last few years and speak to our newfound fears of mother nature’s wrath following the madness of Covid-19.

However, while those elements are indeed fascinating and welcome, since they help to offer up a well-rounded story, make no mistake about it… this is a movie where the spider is king and where it is designed to terrify us, and this movie accomplishes that mission. For the spiders are truly scary here, on a level that they have not been since Arachnophobia came out all those years ago. All courtesy of a story that reminds us why we are terrified of them. Since they are so alien and unpredictable in nature and all of these elements give rise to a must-see horror feature. Simply because this really is a scary feature through and through, one that will absolutely prompt you to double check those dark corners for an arachnid, and your shoes… since it reawakens an old fear in our minds or in the case of some… amplifies a fear that never seems to fade.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 307 of ‘Chucky’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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One particular moment that pops up now and again in film and television, and even in print, that is oddly frustrating, is when a character dies and crosses over to the great beyond. Because those moments are just so incredibly vague in nature. For the character (who is always a hero), really experiences nothing in that moment. They see something beautiful, reflect upon their life or they are sent back to handle unfinished business after getting a taste of the heavens. Granted, once in a great while, they might speak to someone resembling God or some higher power to learn more important lessons that we tend to let slip the wayside, but that’s as complex as it gets, and that is frustrating because this is a chance to explore the unknown and offer up something that ignites the imagination. 

Which is why last night’s episode of Chucky on SYFY and USA Network, was so supremely surprising. Because it took a horror story, to accomplish such a feat. For ‘There Will Be Blood’ opened up within the confines of an ethereal White House. Wherein Charles Lee ‘Chucky’ Ray appeared in the corporeal form he exhibited before jumping into a Good Guys doll and explored a place where old presidents and new haunts meandered about and it also brought forth… a meeting with the one and only, Damballa. Who took the form of Chucky the doll and this led… to an amazing bit of storytelling. Wherein at long last, Don Mancini explored what a conversation with someone’s maker or beloved deity might be like. Which in this case, was as pedantic as possible. Since Damballa only saw Charles’ mistakes and ignored him after the whole exorcism incident.

That in turn, prompted Charles to exert fury and frustration, and eventually meekness… to garner one more chance to be in Damballa’s good graces. Which led to a deal where ol’ Chucky had to murder from beyond the grave. But before we dig into that plan, this sequence needs a measure of applause. For it not only brought forth a bold moment for horror and storytelling in general, but it offered up a lot of satire regarding humanity’s dedication to religion and how we are likely getting a lot of what the good books tell us, wrong, and this sequence pondered upon how… it might not be as cool as one might think to meet a Deity. Since they might have their ethereal minds directed elsewhere or may just be petty a la Damballa. But none the less, Charles was indeed tasked with more murder to be in Damballa’s good graces again and holy hell, did Chucky deliver.

In fact, what followed, was some of the finest moments put forth in this series. For several reasons. Because Chucky’s actions lived up to the title of the episode since we were treated to an elevator’s weight in blood. The kind that would make Stanley Kubrick proud and Chucky brought forth a titanic body count. One that saw a presidential imposter, the new President of the United States and a member of a psychic team designed to clean the White House of evil, die horribly and violently in the name of Damballa. Plus, it also let Brad Dourif shine as Chucky in his human form once again and well, Brad simply let loose here with a performance for the ages, and he easily reminded us why we love him in this franchise so and why we adore him as an actor. 

But all blood and guts aside, this episode also deserves our awe, because it set up one amazing cliffhanger. One where Jake was ready to head into the afterlife in a desperate attempt to use his connection to Chucky to end this once and for all, which is a huge deal since so much risk hangs over this plan and not to mention, there’s a real possibility a problem awaits Jake in the afterlife. After all, he wasn’t the only one who died in this sequence since Tiffany was finally put to death for her crimes, and her love of Chucky may draw her to him in the spirit world. All of which sets the stage for an epic season finale, one that will have to top… this episode. For this one was simply sublime and the best of season three to date and well… now all we can do is wait and see how this incredible story and battle, wraps up come next week. Until then.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘Late Night with the Devil’.
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One particular question that we’ve either answered or asked to others, is just how far someone is willing to go, to have the dreams they desire. And what’s amazing is that everyone has answered or will answer this question in the exact same manner. In that, they would/will do whatever it takes to get that dream in hand. Because we firmly believe that is what must happen to bring forth our dreams and the happiness, we are eager to enjoy in this life, so we say that and ponder deeply upon what that entails and that is when… that question takes on new life for us. Because we also come to understand, that answer isn’t the right one at all.

Because anything means ANYTHING, and that might not be the way to handle this. Because anything will cause strife, or worse. If anything, that particular question and the potential fallout from following that answer to a tee is top of mind today, simply because it is explored in the most unique manner possible in the new Shudder feature, Late Night with the Devil. A grandiose and powerhouse horror story that opts to inject supernatural elements into that question, the kind where perhaps… someone pondered upon the possibility that anything could include, speaking with dark forces to have what one desires.

A feat that this film accomplishes by taking us back to Halloween, 1977, where Jack Delroy, the host of Night Owls with Jack Delroy, is in the midst of a desperate gambit. For despite carving out a niche market as late night’s number two host, Jack’s ratings have been suffering and his show appears to be in decline. In part because, Jack recently lost his wife to cancer and hasn’t been himself since her passing, but also, because his blurred vision has allowed for others to muck up the soul of his show. But on this night, Jack plans to execute quite the show to save his career. For Jack plans to host an occult themed Halloween episode, one complete with elements that have never been seen in the mainstream, but there is just one problem with this plan. In that, one of his guests is actually host to an ancient and dark being, and it is eager to be seen by the masses and will go all-out to showcase its power and its ties to folks within the studio.

Which really is… the perfect way to explore that central theme. Because Jack is, indeed, number two behind Johnny Carson and his iconic The Tonight Show, despite being a host that people love and adore, and he wants that number one slot so badly… he did in fact toy with evil and made asks of darkness to have what he wants. All of which makes this a cautionary tale that expresses how doing whatever it takes to be number one is a terrible idea. One that will hurt those we love, ostracize them, and push them away. Or in the case of this story, bring forth bloodshed and loss, and outright terror and suffering. All of which is unnecessary in this instance, since Jack has found success and has a fan base that loves him dearly and had he pondered upon that, perhaps he could have embraced his role as a solid alternative and enjoyed those spoils instead. Making this a tragedy of sorts as well.
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But make no mistake about it, while there are a lot of lessons present here, this is still at its core a horror story and this movie outright delivers on such matters. In fact, what makes this movie so impressive is the sheer fact that it uses Jack’s good nature and hopefulness to suck you into what becomes a waking nightmare. One whose downward spiral is unsettling and well, that brings forth some stunning horror to say the least. The kind that features jump scares and visuals that nauseate and terrify, and the movie harbors an ending that is incredibly wild and horrifying and well, all of these elements make this, an outright brilliant feature through and through. In large part, because of solid scares and incredible gore that are used in an impactful and meaningful manner. The kind that truly gets under your skin and leaves you deeply disturbed.

But also, because it features a human story. One that we can relate to and one that satirizes the perfection that we pursue but can never achieve, and how that is just as damaging as the expectations that surround success and, in many ways, it speaks to how…we don’t know how to define success really. All of which is expressed through some amazing performances, with David Dastmalchian leading the way as Jack Delroy. Since he brings a real nuance to the tortured nature of Jack, the kind that we both pity and revile and well, perhaps calling this feature brilliant doesn’t do it justice. For it is also, a perfect horror film. One that features all the best tenets of the genre. For it is smart, engaging, and downright terrifying from beginning to end and it is a horror feature that you absolutely must-see the first chance you get. Because this one, really is that rare scary story, that truly has it all.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 306 of ‘Chucky’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There are a great many reasons that the Child’s Play/Chucky franchise continues to thrive after all these years. Such as the horror elements present here, since this saga keeps finding new ways to make a killer doll and his family as creepy and as scary as possible, through creative and devastating kills no less. Not to mention, this is a smart and progressive franchise as well, one that understands the importance of representation and diversity, and of course… offers amazing commentary on our world and the human condition. Plus, this is a series that keeps finding new ways to surprise us from a storytelling standpoint, something that is genuinely difficult in this day and age, but this series continues to find ways to do so, and for proof… well then look no further than last night’s stunning episode of the show on SYFY.

A feat that ‘Panic Room’ accomplished by offering deception from the start by appearing to be a transitional tale. One designed to set the stage for conflict between our heroes and Chucky, by making use of the president’s death to infuriate Chucky. Since Pryce took the time to bring in a dead ringer, named Randall Jenkins, for the now deceased President Collins. Which was a brilliant stroke of storytelling, since it found a way to get Devon Sawa back into the fold and let him make use of his acting chops by playing an entirely different character. But that aside, the imposter’s presence here was designed to bring a peaceful and logical end to President Collins’ time in the White House so the public would never know the truth, something that definitely looked like a setup for a long game. Since Chucky would want to take the credit for killing a president before setting the world on fire at this stage in his life.

Not to mention, Jake, Devon, and Lexy were playing their own long game. Since they returned to the White house to hang out with Grant to enjoy a movie night. A decision they made to help Lexy find peace. Because while Lexy was content to also let Chucky just die and fade into nothing, she wanted to see him one last time and get some answers about her sister. So, everyone minded their P’s and Q’s and did their best to ease their way into Grant’s circle of trust to get at Chucky and get some answers and well… that too seemed to be a long con setup for the final two episodes of the season. But that… is when this franchise opted instead to outright surprise us and shock us in ways we didn’t see coming in the slightest. Largely thanks to the fact, that Chucky saw an opportunity here and went for it.

Because an imposter president would allow for him to make his move and launch the nukes if he acted swiftly and decisively, so he went for it, and took Henry and Jenkins hostage and dragged them to the Situation Room beneath the White House. Wherein he pushed Jenkins to use the codes and the president’s likeness to start World War III. Giving rise to the real possibility that Chucky was finally going to win the day. But thankfully, some truth from Lexy, allowed for a contingent of good to descend upon the Situation Room and prevent the end of everything and bring forth… the end of Chucky, with more surprises in play. Because Lexy tried to save Chucky to get answers and also because… the strange paranormal energy present in this episode and the last… has allowed for something horrible to happen. 

In that, Chucky’s spirit is alive and well in the framework of the White House, courtesy of one epic cameo from Brad Dourif. Which means… that the fight against Charles Lee ‘Chucky’ Ray isn’t over yet and will be handled in one creative and unique manner and well, all of that came forth from one stunning tale. Because no one expected Chucky to make his move this early, no one expected him to expire and transform into a malevolent spirit and of course… no one thought Lexy would try and save him to get answers. And well, now the stage is set for two refreshing and unique episodes that will undoubtedly allow for Brad Dourif to remind us why he is one of the best in the business, as this bold and grandiose chapter in the franchise, barrels toward an ending that will undoubtedly take our breath away. Until next time.