Friday, 13 June 2025

PREVIEW: Saint Clare (2025 Film) - A Blood-Soaked Thriller Arrives in the UK


By Jon Donnis

London's FrightFest 2024 certainly had a highlight last year with the premiere of Saint Clare. This blood-soaked thriller didn't just have critics singing its praises; it had audience's blood pressure practically rising in real time. Now, this much-anticipated film is set for its UK release on July 21, 2025, courtesy of 101 Films.


Bella Thorne, known for her roles in Blended and Midnight Sun, really delivers here. She plays the titular lead with an intensity that's caught everyone's attention in this spiritually charged, small-town story, a blend that's been called a powerful mix, like "American Psycho meets Joan of Arc." The film itself is based on a novel by Don Roff and was expertly brought to life by award-winning Italian director Mitzi Peirone, who you might know from Braid. Peirone also teamed up with Guinevere Turner, a writer on American Psycho, to pen the screenplay. And what a cast! We're talking about Ryan Philippe from Crash, Rebecca DeMornay of Risky Business fame, Frank Whaley from Pulp Fiction, and even Bart Johnson from High School Musical. Plus, the film features an original soundtrack by Zola Jesus.


So, what's Saint Clare about? In a quiet town, a solitary young woman starts hearing voices. These voices lead her down a dark path: assassinating people with bad intentions who think they can get away with anything. But her last kill changes everything. It sucks her right down a rabbit hole, one riddled with corruption, trafficking, and twisted visions from beyond. Can Saint Clare escape unimaginable terror as her quest for retribution takes a dangerous turn, pulling her deep into an unknown hell? You'll have to watch to find out.

The buzz is real, and the reviews speak for themselves. The Good, The Bad and The Verdict called it "a highly entertaining slice of genre cinema" and raved that "Thorne’s performance is super." My Bloody Reviews noted the film "continually surprises throughout," describing it as "complex and dark," adding that Bella Thorne was "terrific as feisty, focused, kick-ass Clare." Halloween Horror and Home simply called it a "wonderful thriller" and "one of the highlights of the festival," even praising it as "an incredibly beautiful movie" and "top of my recommendations." And Mr Mayfield’s Madness went as far as saying "Bella Thorne deserves all the award consideration for the powerhouse performance," comparing the film to "one part Dexter and one part American Psycho." They even called Mitzi Peirone’s direction "a masterclass in setup and execution." 

Saint Clare arrives on UK digital 21 July 2025 (101 Films). Don't miss it!

Monday, 9 June 2025

REVIEW: The Ugly Stepsister (2025 Film) - Starring Lea Myren, Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Ane Dahl Torp, and Flo Fagerli

The Ugly Stepsister
 

A Haunting Fairytale Turned Body Horror Masterpiece

The Ugly Stepsister, the feature debut from Norwegian writer-director Emilie Blichfeldt, is a fearless and ferocious deconstruction of beauty myths. Taking the bones of Cinderella and twisting them into a grim body horror satire, Blichfeldt strips away fantasy to expose the cruelty beneath. The result is a raw, razor-sharp tale about control, trauma and the violent cost of perfection.

From its unsettling first scene, the film sets out to disturb. Lea Myren delivers a transformative performance as Elvira, the forgotten daughter disfigured by her mother’s relentless pursuit of beauty and status. Blichfeldt refuses to look away, showing in graphic detail the invasive procedures, forced starvation and self-harm that Elvira endures. These scenes are brutal but never gratuitous. Each one reinforces the central theme: beauty is not natural, it is inflicted.

Visually, the film is as striking as it is harrowing. Fairytale finery is paired with surgical steel, and lavish ballrooms are filmed with sterile precision. The contrast between glamour and suffering is jarring and effective. Blichfeldt’s control of tone, camera and design crafts an atmosphere that feels dreamlike and dreadful at once. This is a world where sequins cling to blood and beauty masks violence.

What gives the film its edge is its dark wit. The humour is bleak but intentional, a scalpel cutting through hypocrisy. Blichfeldt satirises society’s obsession with appearance and its willingness to sacrifice women on the altar of desirability. There are no easy laughs here, only sharp observations delivered with unnerving clarity. Romance is revealed as hollow, transformation as torture, and acceptance as conditional.

The supporting cast deepens the story’s emotional resonance. Ane Dahl Torp is chilling as Rebekka, the mother whose cruelty masquerades as care. Thea Sofie Loch Næss offers a layered take on the archetypal Cinderella figure, and Flo Fagerli, as the youngest sister Alma, brings a quiet emotional weight that humanises the horror.

There are moments where the pacing falters. At just under two hours, the middle section drags slightly, repeating ideas already clearly established. A tighter edit could have heightened the film’s impact without sacrificing its mood or message.

Even so, The Ugly Stepsister remains one of the year’s most original and uncompromising films. Blichfeldt’s voice is fierce and distinct, and her debut proves she can balance shock with substance. This is not just a horror film; it is a brutal, beautiful scream against unrealistic standards and generational cycles of control.

Unflinching, provocative and painfully relevant, The Ugly Stepsister holds a mirror to our obsession with beauty and shows us what’s lurking underneath. It’s not easy viewing, but it is essential.

Rating: 9 out of 10
Available now on Digital

Thursday, 5 June 2025

PREVIEW: Bogieville (2025 Film) Hits Digital This June - Vampires, Turf Wars and Blood Trails:


A sinister trailer park in the Deep South is the setting for Bogieville, a twisted new vampire flick from actor-director Sean Cronin, known for Drained and Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation. The film lands on UK digital platforms on 9 June, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films, and promises a blood-soaked clash between rival immortals.

After screening at both Cannes and FrightFest, Bogieville now invites UK audiences to take the plunge into its unnerving world. At the centre of it all are Ham and Jody, played by Arifin Putra (The Raid 2) and Eloise Lovell Anderson (Villian), a young couple who find themselves lost and desperate. What they stumble upon is no safe haven. It's an eerie trailer park called Bogieville, seemingly forgotten by the world and watched over by the unsettling caretaker, Crawford, played by Jonathan Hansler (Axed).

He warns them not to leave at night. Of course, they do. And that’s when the horror truly begins. The park isn't deserted at all. It's home to a clan of vampires led by the terrifying Madison, played by Cronin himself. But even he’s not the only threat. There’s another vampire faction circling, ready to challenge Madison for control of the park, dragging the unsuspecting visitors into a long-standing war with no rules and no mercy.

As Ham and Jody try to escape, they quickly realise they’ve become more than just witnesses. Jody has caught the attention of the monsters, and once that happens, there’s no going back. Meanwhile, a detective is closing in, following a string of gruesome deaths that all point back to this cursed place.

Bogieville blends classic horror with an edge of dark, Southern gothic menace. It’s a bloodcurdling ride into a world where no one gets out clean. Whether it’s the eerie calm of the park or the fangs waiting just beyond the shadows, this is one horror tale that sinks in deep.

Arriving on digital 9 June through Reel 2 Reel Films.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/45c9JM2

Tuesday, 3 June 2025

REVIEW: The Legend of Ochi (2025 Film) Starring Helena Zengel, Finn Wolfhard, Emily Watson, and Willem Dafoe

 

The Legend of Ochi

A Beautifully Crafted Fantasy That Struggles to Stay Afloat

Isaiah Saxon's The Legend of Ochi is a visually enchanting yet narratively uneven debut that blends old-school fantasy charm with a modern emotional undercurrent. Brimming with atmosphere and anchored by handmade artistry, the film has a distinctive voice. But despite flashes of magic and menace, it struggles to maintain momentum, particularly in its slow-moving middle.

Set on the wintry island of Carpathia, the story follows Yuri (Helena Zengel), a young girl raised in a brutal, male-dominated village. Her father, Maxim (Willem Dafoe), is a hard-edged patriarch who trains children to hunt down the elusive, goblin-like creatures known as the Ochi. When Yuri discovers and befriends an injured baby Ochi, she turns her back on her upbringing and sets out to return the creature to its kin. Her journey becomes a quiet rebellion as she seeks her estranged mother (Emily Watson) and tries to stay one step ahead of her relentless father.

The film's greatest strength is its visual world-building. Saxon, with a background in animation, leans into practical effects, matte-painted vistas and textured design choices that evoke the spirit of 1980s fantasy cinema. The Ochi creatures are especially compelling. Created with puppetry and animatronics and subtly enhanced by digital work, they feel tangible and expressive. The baby Ochi, in particular, is both charming and memorable, likely to appeal to younger viewers.

The opening sequence is gripping, launching with a moonlit hunt through snowy woods. Torches flicker, shadows dart and the tone is instantly serious, with a sense of danger that marks the film as something darker and more contemplative than most family adventures.

But after that strong beginning, the pacing slows dramatically. The narrative shifts into familiar territory, a child protecting a misunderstood creature, and doesn’t bring enough novelty to reinvigorate the trope. Much of the middle act is taken up by long sequences of travel, hiding and quiet contemplation. Though these moments are often visually stunning, they lack urgency, and the story loses its grip.

Helena Zengel is quietly committed throughout, carrying the film with physical intensity rather than dialogue. Her performance reflects the film’s mood: introspective, muted, and at times emotionally distant. Dafoe brings a grim presence to Maxim, but the role is underwritten. Emily Watson appears briefly, and Finn Wolfhard’s Petro has limited impact. The film opts for minimal dialogue and prolonged silences, which adds to the atmosphere but also slows down character development.

At just 90 minutes, the film avoids overstaying its welcome, but the minimal plot movement in the central section may test the patience of some viewers. While young children may enjoy the creature design and gentle tone, older audiences might wish for more story and emotional depth.

Still, The Legend of Ochi marks Isaiah Saxon as a filmmaker to watch. His preference for handcrafted visuals over glossy effects is refreshing, and his ability to conjure mood through design and tone is evident. The film has heart, even if its narrative pulse is faint.

Thoughtful, original and beautifully made, The Legend of Ochi is a strong visual debut with a clear directorial voice. It begins with tension and ends with sincerity, though its dreamy detours may leave some viewers behind. As a first feature, it is promising, and worth seeing for its craft alone.

Rating: 7 out of 10

Out now on Digital

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3F6kiFQ

Monday, 2 June 2025

Interview with Jason Robert Stephens - Gory Nostalgia, Statham Comparisons and a Potential Return in Popeye the Slayer Man 2


There are horror films. Then there are public domain fever dreams where a beloved cartoon sailor turns into a gore-splattered vigilante with forearms that could pulp a man’s skull. Popeye the Slayer Man, a horror reimagining that’s as bloody as it is bizarre, belongs to the latter camp. And standing tall at the centre of the madness is Jason Robert Stephens, a former real-life cop turned screen slayer. As the film launches in the UK on Amazon and Apple, Stephens sat down with Masters of Horror to talk through the physical demands of becoming Popeye, improvising emotional beats between kills, and yes, who he’d like to slaughter in a potential sequel.

This version of Popeye is definitely not your grandpa’s sailor, how did you prepare to embody such a gritty, slayer-style version of this iconic character?

Mentally, it was pretty easy to get into the character. Once you have all that makeup on, the costume, etc., you kind of have to become that character. It was actually really fun to play.


What drew you to this project in the first place? Did you have any connection to the classic Popeye cartoons growing up?

I’ve known the director Robert Michael Ryan since we were 11 years old. We started out making short horror movies with a home video camera and our love for cinema grew from there. One day he told me that the Popeye character was going into the public domain, and he wanted to direct a Popeye horror movie. He asked me to play Popeye, knowing that it was going to be pretty physical and I'm all about that. So I told him as long as he didn’t skimp on the gore, I’m game.

As far as the original iconic character, I did watch the cartoons as a kid and I even went and saw the Robin Williams version of Popeye in the theatre. So, it was definitely part of my childhood.


The physicality of Popeye is that of a mutated monster. How intense were the make-up transformation demands on you?

It depended on the scene. For example, if it was a far-away shot, or I was in the shadows, getting into the character makeup wasn't all that terrible. If I was doing a close up with dialogue, then it was a little bit more tedious, but all in all, I knew it was going to be worth it in the end.


How did you balance the over-the-top, badass elements of this Popeye with the heart of the original character?

As the movie progresses, you realise that Popeye isn't really 100% bad. He's actually taking out the bad guys.

Maintaining the heart of the original character played itself out in the script. And luckily, Robert let me improvise a couple of things that I think helped with that heart element. For example in the Popeye’s "layer" you get to see his softer side. A lot of that scene I improvised. I just had to hit my marks and eat the spinach.


What was your favourite scene to shoot, and was there one that totally pushed your limits as an actor?

My favourite scene as far as the kills are concerned, is the arm scene but I won't give it away. You'll know which one I'm talking about. That one was super physical, totally over the top and fun plus you really want to see that guy get what’s coming to him. My favourite scene of the movie is when I'm in the layer and you get to see my softer side.


Popeye traditionally relies on his fists and forearms how did the kill scenes choreography evolve for The Slayer Man? Were you involved in any of it?

Most of the kills were pretty much written and filmed as in the original script. We did have to improvise a few things due to time constraints and some other location limitations. I've worked on a lot of movies and directed several of them and utilised stunt coordinators before. So the stunt choreography actually came pretty easily.


If you could face off against any classic cartoon character in slayer form, who would you choose, and who’d win?

If I had to face off against any cartoon character, I think I'd have to take care of that Winnie the Poo guy...... And if not him, maybe the grinch in "Popeye Slays Christmas".


You were a cop for thirty years, and a fugitive hunter for five. So, who do you prefer to play – good guys or bad guys?

Yeah, for thirty years, I chased the bad guys and I prefer playing the good guy or the good guy with an edge. I'm told I looked a little bit like Jason Statham, probably because of our physical build and similar hairline..... some of the fugitives I brought back even called me the Transporter. Lol.


What’s next for you?

Watch this space but you never know, maybe part two of Popeye the Slayer Man.


POPEYE THE SLAYER MAN is currently available to scream in the UK on Digital

Apple TV - https://apple.co/41YEzFS

Prime Video - https://amzn.to/3HkDSPj



Tuesday, 27 May 2025

REVIEW: Death of a Unicorn (2025 Film) Starring Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega

Death of a Unicorn
 

A Bizarre, Mythical Collision of Satire and Fantasy

Death of a Unicorn is a rare breed in modern cinema. It presents a completely original story that blends absurd comedy, biting satire and eerie folklore into a surprisingly emotional experience. Written and directed by Alex Scharfman in his feature debut, the film takes a concept that sounds absurd and transforms it into something oddly grounded and occasionally profound.

The plot follows Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd) and his daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega) as they travel to the countryside estate of Elliot’s boss. During the drive, they accidentally hit a unicorn. What starts as a freak accident quickly spirals into a strange and dangerous situation. The unicorn’s mystical properties spark a frenzy among a wealthy and powerful family, who see it not as a creature of wonder but as an opportunity to exploit. As the situation escalates, Elliot and Ridley find themselves hunted by two vengeful parent unicorns while trapped in a house full of increasingly unhinged humans.

The performances are one of the film’s strongest assets. Paul Rudd delivers his usual likeable charm but with a weariness that grounds the character. Jenna Ortega brings intensity and emotional clarity, capturing both teenage scepticism and wide-eyed wonder. Richard E. Grant plays the sinister Odell Leopold with a quiet menace, while Will Poulter, Téa Leoni, Stephen Park and Sunita Mani round out the supporting cast with memorable turns that balance absurdity with threat.

Visually, the film shows ambition. While some of the CGI falls short in high-motion scenes, the practical effects and design choices are bold and effective. There is a recurring visual motif where the unicorns change colour based on their emotions. This, combined with Ridley’s psychedelic visions and the estate’s dreamlike atmosphere, gives the film an otherworldly feel. These flourishes help create a tone that sits somewhere between fairy tale and psychological thriller.

Tonally, the film is all over the place. It swings between heartfelt moments and grotesque satire. One scene presents a magical healing miracle, the next features graphic violence. This unpredictability can be disorienting. The constant shift between themes of reverence and ridicule might alienate viewers looking for a clearer narrative lane. However, the chaos feels deliberate, even if the execution is uneven.

The greatest strength of Death of a Unicorn is its commitment to being strange. It doesn’t follow familiar paths or copy trends. The film draws on real mythology, including medieval views of unicorns as symbols of purity and divine power. These ideas are explored through Ridley, who sees the unicorns as sacred and untainted. Her journey becomes a philosophical one, wrestling with what should be preserved and what should be consumed.

Despite its flaws, the film leaves a lasting impression. The final act brings together absurd humour, horror and tragedy in a way that should not work but somehow does. It may not appeal to mainstream audiences, but it is likely to gain a cult following.

Death of a Unicorn is messy and ambitious. It may stumble at times, but it stands out in a landscape of safe, familiar stories. Scharfman's debut shows real vision and offers a rare kind of cinematic originality.

Rating: 8 out of 10.

Out Now on Digital

Saturday, 24 May 2025

Stephen King’s The Long Walk Hits UK and Irish Cinemas on 12 September 2025

Stephen King’s The Long Walk

Lionsgate UK has confirmed that The Long Walk, directed by Francis Lawrence, will arrive in cinemas across the UK and Ireland on 12 September 2025. To accompany the announcement, a new trailer and official poster have been released, offering a first look at the upcoming adaptation.

Based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name, the film is scripted by JT Mollner and presented by Lionsgate in association with Media Capital Technologies. It is produced by Vertigo Entertainment and about:blank.

Francis Lawrence, known for directing several entries in The Hunger Games series, leads the project. The production team includes Roy Lee, Steven Schneider, Francis Lawrence and Cameron MacConomy.

The cast features Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Ben Wang, Garrett Wareing, Tut Nyuot, Charlie Plummer, Roman Griffin Davis, Jordan Gonzalez, Joshua Odjick and Josh Hamilton, with supporting roles from Judy Greer and Mark Hamill.

The newly released trailer suggests the film remains faithful to King’s original story, depicting a brutal endurance challenge in which teenage boys must keep walking or face deadly consequences. While full plot details are still under wraps, the footage hints at a tense and emotionally charged adaptation.

The Long Walk opens in cinemas across the UK and Ireland on 12 September 2025.

Tuesday, 20 May 2025

Fantasy Adventure Mythica: Stormbound Arrives Digitally on 16 June

 

Mythica: Stormbound

The Mythica saga returns with its long-awaited sixth chapter, Mythica: Stormbound, set to release on digital platforms from 16 June via Signature Entertainment. Picking up several years after the events of the previous films, the story follows a world left shattered by sacrifice.

Although Marek and the Redthorns succeeded in defeating the dark necromancer Szorlok, the cost was devastating. The gods have fallen, the land lies in ruin, and the people are struggling to rebuild after the loss of their heroes.

As the realm begins to recover, a new danger emerges. Mythica: Stormbound introduces a new protagonist who must face a rising darkness threatening to plunge the world back into chaos.

The cast includes Nate Morley, Will Kemp (Reign), Paul Cartwright (Six Days in August), Dave Martinez (The Chosen), Joe Abraham (UnREAL), and Matthew Mercer (Critical Role). The screenplay is by Jason Faller, Kynan Griffin and Justin Partridge, with direction from Jake Stormoen (The Outpost).

Mythica: Stormbound will be available to stream on digital platforms in the UK from 16 June.

Watch on Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3EEBj9W


Saturday, 17 May 2025

Eyes of the Abyss, a Supernatural Survival Thriller from Argentina's Daniel de la Vega

 

Black Mandala and Del Toro Films have unveiled the first trailer for Eyes of the Abyss, a tense and visually striking thriller from Argentine director Daniel de la Vega (On The 3rd Day, White Coffin, Jennifer's Shadow). Set aboard a warship drifting in the South Atlantic, the film weaves supernatural elements into a harrowing tale of survival.

The story follows a soldier who awakens alone among the dead, her memory fractured and her surroundings steeped in mystery. As she fends off an approaching enemy force, the boundaries between the real and the unreal begin to dissolve. The ship transforms into a haunted battleground, echoing with unresolved horrors of war.

De la Vega describes the film as a meditation on anguish and liminality. “On a warship laden with corpses and threatening to sink, the film explores the suffering of those caught between life and death,” he said. “It defies genre conventions with bold visuals and a non-linear structure.”

Eyes of the Abyss is a co-production between Furia Films and Del Toro Films, continuing a successful collaboration that has previously delivered genre titles now streaming on platforms such as Shudder. The new film is set to premiere at Cannes 2025 during the Marché du Film, under the Fantastic Galas banner curated by Fantastic Pavilion.

Uncork’d Entertainment has secured distribution rights across North America, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.

Cast: Verónica Intile, Carolina Alfonsín, Kevin Schiele, Raymond Lee, Cristian Mariani, Pablo Turturiello, Gustavo Pardi

Writers: Luciano Saracino, Gonzalo Ventura, Daniel de la Vega

Director: Daniel de la Vega

Tuesday, 13 May 2025

Reality Fractures in Dimension Slip, a Tense Sci-Fi Mystery Out Now on Digital

 

Prepare to question everything in Dimension Slip, a gripping new science fiction mystery out now on UK digital platforms via Miracle Media.

Directed by Barbara Toschi (Chunks of Horror), the film stars Sophie Craig (The Adventures of Maid Marion, The Bay) as Kate, a struggling dreamer whose life is unravelling. Beset by mental health challenges and disturbing seizures, she begins to experience vivid visions of a woman who looks exactly like her.

Kate’s world is upended when she wakes in a bathroom she doesn’t recognise, surrounded by strangers who call her Hannah. Though everything appears normal to those around her, Kate is certain something is wrong. As she pieces together the unsettling reality, she realises she has slipped into a parallel dimension, one where a killer is at large, and where Hannah has seemingly taken Kate’s place in the original world.

Trapped in a life that isn’t hers, Kate must assume Hannah’s identity and navigate an unfamiliar existence filled with secrets, suspicion and mounting danger. If she hopes to survive and return to her own reality, she must uncover the truth about Hannah, and confront a deadly threat before time runs out.

Blending psychological suspense with a smart sci-fi twist, Dimension Slip explores identity, perception and the fragile boundaries between alternate realities. With strong performances and a sharp, fast-moving narrative, it offers a chilling and original take on the mystery thriller.

Dimension Slip will be available digitally in the UK from 28 April via Miracle Media.

Watch on Apple TV: https://apple.co/3RvzWNw


Thursday, 8 May 2025

Preview: Bone Keeper (2025 Film) – New Horror from Howard J. Ford

 

By Jon Donnis

Howard J. Ford has completed production on Bone Keeper, his latest horror film, which follows six friends who enter a remote cave system in search of the legend of the ‘Bone Keeper’. As they explore further, they encounter a mysterious creature that may have lived there for thousands of years.

The film was produced through Ford’s company Latitude Films. His previous directing credits include The Dead, The Dead 2, Never Let Go, and Darkgame.

The cast is led by John Rhys-Davies, known for his roles in The Lord of the Rings and Indiana Jones franchises. Also featured are Sarah Alexandra Marks, Louis James, Tiffany Hannam-Daniels, Sophia Eleni, Danny Rahim, Tyler Winchcombe and Sarah T. Cohen. Giordano Aita serves as the film’s visual effects supervisor.

REinvent is handling international sales and is expected to present the first footage at the Cannes Film Festival.

In a statement, Ford said: “I’ve always been intrigued with caves and caverns and imagined if something lurked down there in the depths, so I am very excited to be making a creature-feature and reuniting with the REinvent team and not least working with the legendary Mr. John Rhys-Davies, who has been an absolute blast.”

A release date has not yet been announced.


 

Friday, 25 April 2025

PREVIEW: Lanier (2025 Film) History Resurfaces in This Lake-Based Horror - Arrives on Digital This May

A peaceful weekend turns into a nightmare in Lanier, a tense horror thriller inspired by true events and set around Georgia’s infamous Lake Lanier. Written and directed by William Eric Bush-Anderson and Cindy Kunz-Anderson, this eerie feature debut surfaces on UK digital platforms from 5 May, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

The story follows Detective Jeff Stevenson (Ali Ashtigo), who sets off to Lake Lanier with his wife (Jamie Lee) to celebrate their daughter’s birthday. The trip soon takes a dark turn when Jeff is pulled into a suspicious drowning investigation, teaming up with local detective Daniel Wilson (Jarrett Michael Collins – Captain America: Brave New World, Johnson).

While working the case, Daniel raises unsettling theories about the lake being haunted and built over the submerged town of Oscarville, a once-thriving Black community destroyed in 1912. Jeff, however, dismisses the idea, a decision that leads to dire consequences.

As masked intruders break into his home, Jeff is forced to confront a terrifying threat to his family and question everything he thought he knew about the lake and its secrets.

Lanier explores the disturbing legacy and local legends tied to one of America’s most notorious bodies of water, offering a chilling take on a true historical tragedy.

Available on digital from 5 May via Reel 2 Reel Films.

https://apple.co/445uTLd

Monday, 21 April 2025

COMPETITION: Win The House of the Devil on Blu-ray


Ti West – one of the most prominent horror filmmakers of his generation – continues to bring the fear with his wickedly entertaining horrors that include X, Pearl, MaXXXine, The Sacrament and now his lauded 2009, Satanic scare fest – The House of the Devil is the latest cult horror to get a brand-new Second Sight Films Limited Edition makeover this April.

And to celebrate we have a copy on standard Blu-ray to give away!

Synopsis:
1983, USA, we meet skint college student Samantha Hughes (Donahue), who, desperate for money, spots an ad for a mysterious babysitting job and convinces her best friend (Gerwig) to drive her to the remote house. Unbeknownst to her the job coincides with a full lunar eclipse and on arrival it dawns on her that this is no ordinary childminding gig, there’s way more to her new employer than meets the eye.

Slowly as the tension builds it becomes apparent that true terror awaits.  As the real reason she’s been hired is revealed, Samantha is confronted with unimaginable horror beyond her darkest nightmares and it could cost her everything.


The Limited Edition is presented in a stunning rigid slipcase with new artwork by Nick Charge, along with a brilliantly informative 70-page book with brand new essays. Both formats come complete with a slew of new interviews, new audio commentaries and a Making Of featurette. Please see full list below.

Time to make a move with The House of the Devil – but enter at your own risk for a truly terrifying, but devilishly delightful collector’s edition.

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/42SS2iJ

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who has created the new artwork for the The House of the Devil Limited Edition release?

Enter now for a chance to win.

What is the name of the character played by David Pareja in The Coffee Table?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here
1. Closing date 05-05-25
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

COMPETITION: Win The Coffee Table on Blu-ray


Make room for The Coffee Table (aka La mesita del comedor), a wickedly original horror from Spain, helmed by Caye Casas (Killing God) who also co-wrote with Cristina Borobia (RIP). The film certainly made a big noise and had stomachs churning on its original release and is now set for pride of place in your home, as Second Sight Films announce a fantastic new Limited Edition Blu-ray release this Spring.

The Coffee Table has been described as ‘Horror film of the year… one of the most distressing nightmares of recent horror cinema’ (El Mundo, Spain) and ‘A genre-leaping marvel, a farce, a melodrama, now a tragedy, uproariously funny until it is not at all’ (Projected Figures) and is now set for a collector’s edition makeover. The set will come complete with a new audio commentary, new interviews with the director, actors and many more as well as two of Caye Casas’ short films. The stunning set is presented in a rigid slipcase with new artwork by Luke Headland and a 120-page book with new essays. It will be released on 28 April 2025 alongside a Standard Edition Blu-ray version.


And to celebrate we have a copy on standard Blu-ray to give away!

Synopsis:

David Pareja (Amigo) and Estefanía de los Santos (Jaulas) give gobsmackingly brilliant performances as Jesus and María, a couple going through a tough time in their relationship, following the recent arrival of their newborn son. The fiery pair are struggling with the pressures that a new baby brings and their bickering only amplifies on a shopping trip to buy furniture that’s about to change their lives forever.

What begins as a simple disagreement over which coffee table to buy quickly descends into a shocking and tragic event that will rip their lives apart.

The film, co-starring Josep Maria Riera, Claudia Riera and Eduardo Antuña promises an excruciatingly uncomfortable and harrowing experience, with a darker-than-dark sense of humour.

Sit down with The Coffee Table for a fantastically horrifying feature that you’ll never forget and will certainly want to make the centre piece of your collection.


Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/3YxzXEH

Enter now for a chance to win.

What is the name of the character played by David Pareja in The Coffee Table?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here
1. Closing date 05-05-25
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

Tuesday, 15 April 2025

PREVIEW: It Feeds (2025 Film) - A Supernatural Nightmare Arrives This May

 

Get ready for a chilling descent into terror as It Feeds arrives on digital platforms from 12 May. This supernatural horror, rated 15 and running 102 minutes, promises a nerve-shredding experience with a stellar cast and a sinister, gripping storyline.

The film follows Jordan and her clairvoyant mother, whose quiet home psychiatry practice takes a horrifying turn when a young girl arrives, claiming she is being hunted by a malevolent entity. As they try to uncover the truth behind her torment, they realise the creature’s hunger is growing,and time is running out before it consumes her completely.

Starring Ashley Greene (Twilight), Shawn Ashmore (X-Men), Mark Taylor (Cinderella Man), and Ellie O’Brien (Designated Survivor), It Feeds blends psychological tension with supernatural terror. Directed by horror veteran Chad Archibald (I'll Take Your Dead), the film delivers an unsettling mix of dread, suspense, and shocking twists.

Distributed by Signature Entertainment, It Feeds will be available on digital platforms from 12 May, ready to haunt audiences at home. If you’re looking for a horror film that lingers long after the credits roll, this one is not to be missed, just be sure to leave the lights on.

Friday, 11 April 2025

PREVIEW: Womb (2025 Film) - Harrowing Survival Horror Arrives on Digital This April

 

Brace yourself for an unrelenting fight for survival in Womb, a brutal and emotionally charged horror inspired by true events. Directed by Bridget Smith (Sno Babies, The Retaliators), this disturbing new film will be released on digital in the UK on 28 April, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films.

Set deep in the wilderness, Womb follows Hayley, a pregnant woman and recovering addict, portrayed by Taylor Hanks (The Giant), who is determined to rebuild her life. With the support of her fiancé, played by Myles Clohessy (Instinct, Blue Bloods), Hayley embarks on a peaceful getaway to a remote cabin with her soon-to-be sister-in-law, Martha (Ellen Adair – The Sinner, Homeland).

But their escape quickly unravels into a nightmare when Hayley becomes the target of a twisted killer, obsessed with abducting her unborn child. Isolated, terrified, and forced into a life-or-death struggle, Hayley must summon every ounce of strength to protect herself and her baby from the unimaginable.

Drawing on the real-world horror of foetal abduction cases, Womb goes beyond the conventions of slasher cinema to explore the terrifying psychology behind obsession, trauma, and survival. With an unflinching approach and a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere, Bridget Smith delivers a stark and chilling portrayal of a mother’s will to survive against all odds.

Critics have praised the film’s raw emotional depth and relentless pacing, with Overly Honest Reviews calling it “a chilling exploration of the darkest corners of human obsession.”

For those brave enough to face it, Womb promises a gripping, visceral experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Womb will be available on digital platforms from 28 April 2025.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/4i6Iwgj


Thursday, 10 April 2025

PREVIEW: To Thy Rest (2025 Film) - Award-Winning Supernatural Horror Arrives This April

To Thy Rest
 

Prepare for a chilling descent into madness as To Thy Rest, the award-winning supernatural horror from director Darren McStay, makes its digital debut on 21 April, released by Miracle Media.

Set against the haunting backdrop of rural Finland, this atmospheric Nordic horror follows Arther, a travelling spiritual medium, played by Rikki Chamberlain (Captain Mack), who is invited to a remote hotel for the final séance of his tour. What begins as a routine performance quickly spirals into a nightmarish experience as Arther is plagued by disturbing visions, disembodied whispers, and unexplainable encounters that blur the line between reality and illusion.

As the séance approaches, Arther delves into the hotel's murky history, uncovering dark secrets and a malevolent presence that threatens to consume him. The deeper he digs, the more he questions his sanity, until he is forced to confront the unsettling truth behind the building’s sinister past, and his own role in what is unfolding.

To Thy Rest has earned critical acclaim on the festival circuit, praised for its creeping tension, strong central performance, and evocative setting. Darren McStay’s feature weaves a slow-burning tale of psychological terror, combining elements of gothic horror with Nordic folklore to deliver a truly unsettling experience.

For horror fans seeking an atmospheric tale of isolation, possession, and paranoia, To Thy Rest promises a fear-filled journey into the unknown.

To Thy Rest will be available on digital platforms from 21 April 2025.

Wednesday, 9 April 2025

PREVIEW: Human Resources (2025 Film) - Award-Winning Workplace Horror Unleashed This April

Human Resources
 

Enter the workplace from hell with Human Resources, a gripping and sinister horror set to make its UK digital debut on 21 April via Miracle Media. The film marks the impressive feature debut of rising talent Braden Swope, who wrote, directed, edited, and produced the film at just 19 years old.

This eerie and award-winning horror follows Sam, a nervous student trying to make ends meet, played by Hugh McCrae Jr. (The Night They Came Home). Taking a job at the seemingly ordinary Brooke’s Hardware Store, Sam soon discovers something is deeply wrong behind the shopfront. When a former employee mysteriously vanishes, Sam joins forces with his jaded colleague Sarah, played by Sarah José (Runaway), to investigate the store’s hidden secrets.

What begins as curiosity quickly spirals into a nightmare, as the pair uncover a disturbing and deadly conspiracy that goes far beyond missing staff. With chilling discoveries lurking in the stockrooms and terrifying truths buried beneath the aisles, Sam and Sarah find themselves entangled in a horror that reaches far beyond what either of them could have imagined.

With themes of corporate control, paranoia, and personal responsibility, Human Resources blends psychological horror with a creeping sense of dread. Praised on the festival circuit for its unique setting and atmospheric tension, the film showcases Swope’s bold vision and knack for building suspense in the most unexpected places.

Human Resources is a terrifying reminder that some jobs come with more than just stress—sometimes, they come with consequences that can’t be clocked out of.

Human Resources is available on digital platforms from 21 April 2025.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3Er94et

Tuesday, 8 April 2025

PREVIEW: The Mill Killers (2025 Film) Welsh Horror Thriller Set for Digital Release This April

The Mill Killers
 

Tension, paranoia, and long-buried secrets collide in The Mill Killers, a chilling new horror feature from first-time director Aled Owen. Following its successful premiere at FrightFest, the suspense-laden thriller is set to release digitally on 21 April, courtesy of Miracle Media.

Set in the eerie Welsh countryside, The Mill Killers follows four women bound by a dark secret. Years earlier, as teenagers, the group attempted to steal cash from a local mill factory. The heist went tragically wrong, resulting in the accidental death of a worker. Traumatised and sworn to silence, they went their separate ways, until now.

In a bid to recover the money they once left behind, the friends return to the scene of their crime. But what begins as a mission to reclaim their past quickly unravels into a nightmare. The group becomes convinced they are being watched, stalked by a hooded figure who may know everything they tried to forget.

Inspired by the stylistic flair of classic Giallo cinema, The Mill Killers is a tense and visually striking exploration of guilt, fear, and fractured trust. As the women are pushed to their psychological limits, old tensions resurface and hidden truths emerge, blurring the line between reality and paranoia.

The film has earned early praise for its Hitchcockian atmosphere, slow-building suspense, and strong central performances. With its mix of psychological horror and slasher elements, The Mill Killers offers a fresh take on the genre, grounded in a uniquely Welsh setting.

The Mill Killers will be available on digital platforms from 21 April 2025.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/4lEr2eu

Friday, 4 April 2025

PREVIEW: Rumpelstiltskin (2025 Film) - A Brutal New Take on a Classic Tale

Rumpelstiltskin
 

Andy Edwards puts a savage spin on a classic fairy tale with Rumpelstiltskin, a dark fantasy horror that premiered at FrightFest Glasgow on 8 March 2025 before arriving on digital release through Miracle Media on 7 April. Starring Hannah Baxter-Eve, Joss Carter, and Adrian Bouchet, this gruesome reimagining blends sharp humour, relentless horror, and a fierce female lead who refuses to be a victim.

Baxter-Eve plays Evaline, a miller’s daughter whose father’s greed leads to disaster. After falsely claiming she can spin straw into gold, he draws the wrath of the King (Colin Malone), who locks them both in a tower and demands proof. With their lives on the line, a masked creature (Joss Carter) appears with an offer too tempting to refuse. He will turn the straw to gold, but at a terrible cost.

What starts as a desperate bargain soon spirals into a nightmare. The King’s insatiable greed pushes Evaline further into the imp’s clutches, leading her to promise something she cannot bear to lose. But when the Devil himself takes an interest in their twisted pact, the horror escalates beyond anything she could have imagined.

Edwards embraces the grotesque heart of the original tale, delivering shocking transformations, disturbing creature effects, and unrelenting tension. Carter’s physical, unsettling portrayal of Rumpelstiltskin adds to the horror, while Baxter-Eve’s Evaline brings a sharp wit and steely determination that sets her apart from traditional fairy tale heroines.

With its mix of visceral horror and dark humour, Rumpelstiltskin is a bold and fearless addition to the genre. Edwards is no stranger to pushing boundaries, and this film looks to be one of his most brutal yet. Fans of twisted folklore and nightmarish fantasy won’t want to miss it. Rumpelstiltskin premiered at FrightFest Glasgow on 8 March 2025, before hitting digital platforms on 7 April. Some stories were never meant to have a happy ending.

Tuesday, 1 April 2025

PREVIEW: Don't Turn Out The Lights (2025 Film) A Relentless Descent into Terror

Don't Turn Out The Lights
 

Prepare for an unrelenting nightmare with Don't Turn Out The Lights, a brutal supernatural horror from Anaconda producer Andy Fickman, out now on digital platforms courtesy of 101 Films. What begins as a carefree road trip soon becomes a blood-soaked fight for survival as a group of friends en route to a music festival take a wrong turn into pure terror. Stranded in the middle of nowhere with no signal, no help, and something watching from the darkness, their dream weekend quickly turns into a waking nightmare.

Their camper van, once a symbol of freedom, becomes a prison as night falls and an unseen force begins to hunt them. Tension and paranoia take hold, fraying friendships and leaving them exposed to the malevolent presence stalking the shadows. One by one, they meet gruesome ends in increasingly brutal and imaginative ways, as the film revels in its slasher roots with expertly crafted practical effects and relentless gore. Even fleeting moments of respite are shattered by bursts of shocking violence, keeping the terror at a fever pitch.

Fickman masterfully builds dread, using the suffocating darkness and claustrophobic setting to prey on primal fears of the unknown. The unseen horror is ever-present, lurking just out of sight, tightening its grip until the chilling climax leaves a lasting mark.

For horror fans craving a no-holds-barred, blood-soaked thrill ride, Don't Turn Out The Lights delivers in full force. So gather your bravest friends, lock the doors, and keep a torch close, because the film is out now and you might just think twice before turning off the lights.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3D71aXj


Monday, 31 March 2025

COMPETITION: Win Black Cab (A Shudder Original) on Blu-ray



Nick Frost gives a chilling performance as the cab driver from hell in spine-chilling horror Black Cab from director Bruce Goodison.  The film arrives on Blu-ray and digital 7th April courtesy of Acorn Media International.

And to celebrate we have a copy on Blu-ray to give away!

Synopsis:
Nick Frost gives a brilliant performance as creepy cabbie Ian, playing against type in his most sinister role yet with Synnøve Karlsen bringing an emotive and compelling performance as his tormented passenger, making this one serious spine tingler.   
 
After an awkward date Anne (Karlsen) and her controlling, abusive fiancé (Luke Norris – Poldark) hail a taxi, but it quicky dawns on them that they’ve picked the wrong ride, as their night goes from bad to terrifying… 
 
Brutally abducted and tied up, the couple are at the mercy of their captor and with their destination unknown, things become even more frightening as ghostly visions of a women appear to torment them. As secrets are revealed about Anne’s past, Ian’s true motive starts to become clear. Can they escape the clutches of the disturbed driver and the bone-chilling haunting presence, or is this their final destination? 
 
With shocking twists and revelations sure to scare your socks off, this is one Black Cab ride you’ll never forget. 

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/3Y6IYEg

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here
1. Closing date 14-04-25
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.