NEWS: The Nameless Ballad Begins Its Haunting Journey

Federico Zampaglione on location with THE NAMELESS BALLAD

Filming has kicked off in the quiet reaches of Fara, Sabina for The Nameless Ballad, the latest supernatural horror project from Federico Zampaglione. His previous film, The Well, travelled impressively across the globe, so there is a sense of momentum as he returns to the director’s chair to explore a story rooted in a world he knows inside out. Music sits at the heart of this new tale, although the version we see here is soaked in dread and heavy with unease.

Jamie Ward in THE NAMELESS BALLAD

Jamie Ward leads the film as Sam Gallo. He plays a young musician riding the high end of success, yet barely hanging on beneath it. His creative block, personal troubles and various addictions weigh on him, so he slips away to a remote villa in the hope of finding fresh inspiration. The retreat does not bring peace. Instead, the house begins to push against his frailties. Dark shapes seem to circle around him, feeding on his worry and fear. The more he tries to settle, the deeper he sinks into disturbing visions that blur the divide between reality and the stories he carries in his head. His partner Tania, played by Alana Boden, becomes entangled in the same nightmare, pulled along by the destructive tide that grips Sam.

Alana Boden in THE NAMELESS BALLAD

Zampaglione shaped the script with Barbara Baraldi, and together they guide the film along that fine thread that separates imagination from nightmare. The supporting cast is a sizeable one. Giglia Marra, Fabrizio Ferracane, Seumas Sargent, Reed Stokes, Mia Desando, Vincenzo De Michele and Sergio Ceglie all step into the unfolding chaos. Another cast member will be revealed soon, which is being teased as a pleasant surprise for fans of the genre.

Giglia Marra in THE NAMELESS BALLAD

The director has described this as his most personal work to date. The supernatural is firmly in place, although the emotional voltage comes from his lived experience as a musician. He hints at a world where every note can stir a ghost, and certain melodies seem to demand a price before they fade. It gives the film a slightly feverish musical pulse that runs beneath the horror.

The Nameless Ballad is produced by SOMIC FILM. Federico Zampaglione directs, with cinematography by Yuri Santurri. The film is heading towards a 2026 launch at major festivals, which leaves plenty of time for the anticipation to build.

MONSTER COMPETITION: Win The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Series 1 to 3, Tales of the Walking Dead, The Walking Dead: Dead City Series 1 & 2, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire Series 1 & 2 and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches Series 1 & 2

This Christmas we have a MONSTER sized Blu-ray Christmas Competition.

One lucky winner will receive The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Series 1 to 3, Tales of the Walking Dead, The Walking Dead: Dead City Series 1 & 2, Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire Series 1 & 2 and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches Series 1 & 2 all on Blu-ray

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Series 1 to 3 - https://amzn.to/4pe6N8O

Following his departure from The Commonwealth, Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus) washes ashore in France, raising the ire of a splintered but growing autocratic regime centred in Paris and endangering a young boy at the heart of a benevolent religious movement.

Daryl agrees to shepherd the child and his caretakers on their pilgrimage to The Nest, a sanctuary which promises safety, in return for the Union’s help securing him passage back to America.

Tales of the Walking Dead - https://amzn.to/48qeeTb

In the months and years following the apocalypse, Tales of the Walking Dead follows the unique lives of new and familiar characters.

A prepper (Terry Crewes) leaves his bunker and meets and unlikely ally (Olivia Munn); hostile co-workers (Parker Posey and Jillian Bell) try to escape Atlanta and each other; a mother (Samantha Morton) must revisit her violent past to protect her child; a settler (Poppy Lui) tries to convince a scientist (Anthony Edwards) that people need to take back the land from the dead; a man (Jessie T. Usher) wakes up with no memory, only to find he is accused of murder; and a traumatised couple (Danielle Pineda and Danny Ramirez) seek refuge in a secluded house.

The Walking Dead: Dead City Series 1 & 2 - https://amzn.to/4aoQWj1

Having teamed up in Season 1 to rescue Maggie’s son, Season 2 continues the intense saga of Maggie and Negan in post-apocalyptic New York, delving deeper into their strained relationship as they find themselves on opposite sides of a brutal conflict.

The plot thickens with the introduction of new factions and characters, including the New Babylon Federation, which adds layers of political intrigue and power struggles. Maggie and Negan must navigate the treacherous streets of Manhattan, now overrun by warring clans and even more vicious walkers.

Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire Series 1 & 2 - https://amzn.to/49KjTpp

Based on Anne Rice’s revolutionary novel, the series follows Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson), Lestat de Lioncourt (Sam Reid) and Claudia's epic story of love, blood and the perils of immortality, as told to the journalist Daniel Molloy (Eric Bogosian).

In season one, chafing at the limitations of life as a Black man in New Orleans in the early 1900s, Louis finds it impossible to resist the rakish Lestat de Lioncourt’s offer of the ultimate escape: joining him as his vampire companion. But Louis’s intoxicating new powers come with a violent price, and the introduction of Lestat’s newest fledgling, the child vampire Claudia, soon sets them on a decades-long path of revenge and atonement.

In season two, the timeless saga of love, betrayal, and the burden of immortality continues. Louis delves further into his interview, chronicling his ambitious escape with Claudia after their calculated murder of Lestat. The journey to rebuild their lives leads them to post-war Paris, where they uncover forgotten secrets while being lured into a mysterious vampire coven.

Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches Series 1 & 2 - https://amzn.to/4ope4kE

Rowan Fielding, an intuitive young neurosurgeon, discovers that she is the unlikely heir to a family of witches.

As she grapples with her newfound powers, she must contend with a sinister presence that has haunted her family for generations.

Enter now for a chance to win.

Can you name the actors who play Daryl Dixon, Negan, Louis de Pointe du Lac and Rowan Fielding in these series?

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 15-12-25

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 Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Seasons 1 to 3 on Blu-ray

From Acorn Media International comes The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 3 and Seasons 1 to 3 Box Set which will arrive on Blu-ray and DVD 8 December 2025.

And to celebrate we have a copy of the Seasons 1 to 3 Box Set on Blu-ray to give away!

Fan favourites Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus – The Bikeriders, Blade II) and Carol Peletier (Melissa McBride – The Mist, The Happys) are back in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 3. The highly acclaimed third series is ‘bigger, badder and better than ever’ as the determined duo embark on a perilous journey across a fractured Europe overrun with the undead, in search of a way back home. 

Synopsis:

Season three sees some newcomers join the cast including Óscar Jaenada (The Losers, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides), Hugo Arbues (Past Lies) and Candela Saitta (Maxima) alongside British comedy favourite Stephen Merchant (The Office, Extras) in a show-stopping guest appearance. 

 

We join Daryl and Carol amidst the devastating ruins of London, where they encounter Julian (Merchant), a reclusive survivor who believes he’s the last living man in England. When a desperate escape across the Channel ends in disaster, the pair end up shipwrecked on the Spanish coast and thrust into a volatile new world of survivors, zealots and hidden agendas.  

 

As they navigate the sun-scorched landscapes and broken strongholds of post-apocalyptic Spain, they become entangled with a struggling community led by the principled Antonio (Eduardo Noriega) and fiercely independent Paz (Alexandra Masangkay). Bound by loyalty, yet divided by conscience, Daryl and Carol must confront their own haunted pasts and decide whether to keep moving towards home or stay – in the hope that their displacement may finally have a purpose. 

  

Balancing gore-filled action and gripping twists with dynamite chemistry and a striking European backdrop, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 3 proves once again that there’s still plenty more life in The Walking Dead. 

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/48sPr0P

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who plays Julian the last living man in England?

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 15-12-25

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.

PREVIEW Quarantine-19 (2025 Film) - A Reality Show That Turns Into a Nightmare

Preview by Jon Donnis

Quarantine-19 drops you straight into a setup that feels harmless at first. Eight strangers walk into an isolated house for a reality show that promises to change their lives, and all contact with the outside world is cut off. It is the kind of pitch that usually leads to petty arguments and awkward challenges. Instead, Can Sarcan, known for Muck, twists the idea into something far darker.

The contestants begin to notice things that should not be happening. The house feels wrong. Odd events nudge them back out into the world, and they step outside with no idea of what waits for them. The shock hits quickly. While they were locked away, a devastating virus tore across the globe. Now they must face a ruined landscape filled with infection, fear and a sense that their supposed break from reality has turned into a fight for survival.

What follows is a tense, creeping journey through a world they barely recognise. The show they signed up for becomes meaningless. The danger is real, and the atmosphere hangs heavy as they try to make sense of the chaos.

Quarantine-19 lands on digital in the UK on 1 December, courtesy of Trinity Content Partners.

PREVIEW: The Final Party (2025 Film) - Stars David Christian

 

Preview by Jon Donnis

There is an invite you might think twice about, yet it is hard to resist. The Final Party is on its way to UK digital this December, brought in by Trinity Content Partners, and it comes dripping with trouble. Bilal Kalyoncu, known for Dogulu, throws open the doors to a high school horror that leans right into the gore.

At the centre of it all is Alex, played by David Christian. He is an outsider who wants one good memory before school is out. He and his mates head to the biggest party of the year, expecting nothing more than loud music and a last bit of freedom. Things unravel fast once Andre storms in with his unhinged crew. What begins as a bit of fun turns brutal as they tie everyone up and force them into a card game that can cost them far more than pride.

It becomes a plunge into fear, each choice sharper than the last. The games are grisly. The threat is real. The night is a trap they never saw coming.

The Final Party arrives on digital in the UK on 1 December, courtesy of Trinity Content Partners.

REVIEW: Good Boy (2025 Film) - Starring Indy

At first glance, Ben Leonberg’s Good Boy sounds like a gimmick. A horror film told almost entirely through the eyes of a dog could have fallen apart under its own novelty. Instead, Leonberg’s feature debut is something quietly remarkable, a tense and emotional supernatural story unlike anything else released this year.

Running just seventy-three minutes, the film wastes no time. We follow Indy, a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, and his owner Todd (Shane Jensen) as they swap city life for a crumbling family home buried deep in the woods. The tone shifts the moment Indy steps inside. The floors groan, the air feels thick, and Indy senses something unseen. Leonberg’s approach keeps the camera low, never fully taking Indy’s literal view but staying close enough that we experience everything through his presence. Each glance, pause, and movement becomes the heart of the story.

Leonberg resists the temptation to humanise Indy. There’s no voiceover, no inner dialogue, just body language and instinct. The audience fills in the emotion, which makes the film all the more unsettling. Indy’s loyalty to Todd and confusion as his owner’s health declines are devastating. When Todd’s illness worsens and he turns cruel towards the dog he once loved, the horror becomes deeply personal.

Indy’s performance is extraordinary. Whether through direction, editing, or sheer instinct, every subtle reaction feels alive with meaning. He senses danger long before the humans do, creating a slow, inevitable dread that carries the film.

Leonberg’s filmmaking is lean and assured. The cinematography sticks to muted tones, giving the house a sickly, decaying look. The score hums quietly in the background, letting tension build naturally instead of forcing scares. A standout scene sees Indy exploring the cellar, discovering the skeleton of another dog, Bandit. It’s eerie and strangely touching, more sorrowful than shocking.

The film isn’t without flaws. Some may find the concept too strange or detached, and without a strong human anchor, a few emotional beats drift. The dialogue between Todd and his sister Vera (Arielle Friedman) sometimes slips into exposition, briefly breaking the film’s spell. The short runtime also means parts of Todd’s decline and his bond with Indy could have been explored more fully.

Even so, Good Boy stands out as one of the year’s most original and haunting horror films. It trusts the audience to connect with an animal’s perspective without overexplaining, turning what could have been a gimmick into a moving reflection on loyalty and loss.

It’s a rare debut that feels this confident and this strange. Good Boy may be small in scale, but it stays with you long after it ends. A bold, haunting piece of work that earns its 9 out of 10 rating.

Out Now - https://apple.co/46SKkr4

Interview with Ronald McGillvray By David Kempf

About Ronald McGillvray & his work.  

Ronald  is a writer of horror, the strange and the mysterious, and is from Ottawa, Canada. He’s published short stories, scripts, novellas and novels. His short horror story collection, Tales From The Parkland, his novella, James’ Journey To Dreamland, and his two novels, Cutter’s Deep and The Candy Witch have all reached #1 on Amazon and have been read in over a dozen countries.

He wrote the script for the film, The Storm, which was chosen to be screened at the World Horror Convention as well as at the Shocklines Film Festival in New York City.

His story, Head Case, was made into a film produced by Columbia College in Chicago. 

Our intreped writer and interviewed David Kempf, decided to catch up with Ronald andfind out a bit more about the man.

1. When did you first become interested in horror?

In the mid 70’s, I was on vacation with my family and an acquaintance of my parents asked if I liked scary stories. He then gave me two paperbacks he’d just finished reading. One was, Carrie by Stephen King and the other was, The Rats by James Herbert. A few years later I watched, The Night of the Living Dead by George Romero and I have been hooked on horror ever since.  

2. Did you always enjoy wring?

I’ve been writing since I was in grade school. I’ve always had story ideas in my head.

Check out Ronald on Goodreads

3. Do you prefer writing short stories or novels?

I prefer writing short stories. Mostly because I have so many ideas, I’m always in a hurry to get to my next one.

4. Is there another genre that you write in?

A lot of my stories cross genres. I’ve written humorous horror, mystery horror, fantasy horror, and even a horror/detective novel.  

5. Are there topics you would not write about in your books?

I would never write anything that had little or no interest to me. I generally write stories that amuse or engage me. Having said that, I’d never write a medical thriller because I know nothing about the medical world. I would also stay away from religion. 

6. Do you ever edit or do ghostwriting for others?

I did when I used to do scriptwriting. I haven’t since I started writing prose.

7. Do you believe readers need to hooked from the first sentence?

I wouldn’t say by the first sentence but definitely within the first chapter. I would even dare to say, by the first few paragraphs.

8. Why do you think horror books and movies remain so popular?

Today, I would say, because the world is in a scary place and horror gives us an outlet for controlled chaos and our deep-seated anxieties. Generally, though, I believe people like the thrill of the unknown and the adrenaline rush it provides. The same kind of thrill people get by riding a rollercoaster. I’d never ride a rollercoaster myself, but to each their own.

9. Why do you think that people are obsessed with being scared?

I don’t know if people are obsessed with being scared, so to speak, but I do think that many enjoy the safety of being scared on their couch or in their beds tucked under their safe, warm sheets. It’s a form of escapism. 

10. Who inspires you?

Anyone creative inspires me, especially musicians and artists, I guess because they do something creative that I’m not accomplished at. Writing wise, I would have to give the nod to Stephen King, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Richard Matheson, Rod Serling, Robert B. Parker, Joe R Lansdale, George Romero, and last but not least Alistair MacLean who actually got me into reading in the first place.

11. What are some of your favorite horror books?

Definitely, I Am Legend by Richard Matheson.

Salem’s Lot by Stephen King

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The Drive-In by Joe R. Lansdale

Ghost Story by Peter Straub

The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker

Let the Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

The Body Snatchers by Jack Finney

12. What are some of your favorite horror movies?

Night of the Living Dead

Dawn of the Dead

Jaws

The Thing

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Alien

An American Werewolf in London

Invasion of the Body Snatchers

13. What are your current projects?

I have three novels partially started but stopped them when I had a new idea that I was more interested in. Sadly, they may never see the light of day. We’ll see. Currently I’m trying my hand at a collection of novellas.

To learn more, check out his webpage at www.ronaldmcgillvray.com. 

He’s also on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, as well as on Goodreads.

COMPETITION: Win Pearl on 4K

Discover this Pearl of a movie in horror maestro Ti West’s devastatingly brilliant prequel, that breaks open the origin story of one of modern horrors most iconic figures, played by the queen of horror herself Mia Goth (Frankenstein, Infinity Pool, Suspiria). The film is the latest to receive a Second Sight Films Limited Edition makeover.

And to celebrate we have a copy on 4K Standard to give away!

Synopsis:

The award-winning second movie in the X trilogy heralds the return of Goth in a career defining performance as the young Pearl, a woman so desperate for stardom it drives her to the point of insanity and murderous mayhem. Praised by audiences and critics alike, the film immediately found its rightful place as a horror classic on its 2022 release with The Guardian saying: ‘Goth is now the Judy Garland of horror’ and the legendary Martin Scorsese calling it ‘mesmerising… powered by a pure, undiluted love for cinema’.

Now, witness the technicolour majesty like never before, as the new Pearl 4K UHD Limited Edition Box Set is set to arrive on 17 November, alongside a Standard Edition.

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/441oCz7

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Pearl?

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 24-11-25

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.

PREVIEW: Trapped (2025 Film) - Starring Gina Jones, Shane McCormick, Craig Fairbrass, Geoff Bell and Simon Manyonda

Raw and unflinching, Trapped tells the story of Raye, a woman trapped in an abusive relationship, battling to reclaim her freedom and survive. The film follows her desperate bid to break away while exposing the devastating reach of violence and control. It premieres at Genesis Cinema in London on 8 November 2025, ahead of its digital release on Amazon Prime, Google Play, and iTunes from 17 November 2025.

The film features a powerful ensemble led by Gina Jones, alongside Shane McCormick, Craig Fairbrass, Geoff Bell, Simon Manyonda, Eddie Webber, Josh Witcher, Calum MacNab, Lottie Lewis, Kadeem Ramsay, Miguella Charley, Aimée Hills, Karen Seacombe, Byron Gibson, Tom Gordon, Tom Padley, and James Hicks. Directed by Roland Manookian, known for Castle in the Sky and EastEnders, the film brings together a striking mix of established and emerging talent.

Behind the camera, Trapped represents a key partnership between Shane McCormick’s new outfit, Move Mountains Production, and actor, writer, and producer Josh Witcher. Manookian’s screenplay expands on an original story conceived by Witcher.

Drawing comparisons to Gary Oldman’s Nil by Mouth, the film delves deep into the emotional and psychological cost of domestic abuse, showing how far its damage spreads. Gritty and character-driven, Trapped promises to challenge, disturb, and move its audience in equal measure.

Trapped premieres on 8 November at Genesis Cinema, London, with its digital release following on 17 November 2025.

PREVIEW: Portrait of the Apocalypse (2025 Film) - Stars Demián Salomón, Lorena Vega, Ezequiel Rodríguez, Paula Manzone, Rodrigo Raffeto, Natalia Santiago, Paula Rubinsztein & Melisa Fernández

 
Preview by Jon Donnis

Black Mandala has unveiled Portrait of the Apocalypse, a bold and visceral new entry in the zombie genre from directors Nicanor Loreti, Fabián Forte, and Luca Castello. Set in a collapsing city where survival teeters on the edge of morality, the film unfolds through four interwoven stories that dissect human instinct, love, and the will to endure when civilisation has crumbled.

Described as brutal, emotional, and visually striking, Portrait of the Apocalypse doesn’t just revel in horror, it questions it. At its heart lies a chilling thought: how far would you go to save the people you love when everything familiar turns to ash?

The film reunites Ezequiel Rodríguez and Demián Salomón, the two leads from When Evil Lurks, a standout of modern Latin American horror that won acclaim at Sitges and became a streaming hit on both Shudder and Netflix. Here, they once again find themselves amid terror, though in a very different world where humanity’s darkest and most tender impulses collide.

Told through four perspectives, the story tracks the outbreak from its chaotic beginning to the desperate, fractured attempts at survival. Each segment offers a distinct tone and moral weight, painting a collective portrait of fear, resilience, and fleeting hope within an urban apocalypse.

Written and directed by Luca Castello, Fabián Forte, and Nicanor Loreti, and featuring Lorena Vega, Paula Manzone, Rodrigo Raffeto, Natalia Santiago, Paula Rubinsztein, and Melisa Fernández, Portrait of the Apocalypse promises a raw, unflinching vision of the end times, one where the monsters aren’t always the ones already dead.

COMPETITION: Win Tales of the Walking Dead Blu-ray

Acorn Media International has announced that Tales of the Walking Dead is set to arrive on Blu-ray and DVD on 10 November 2025, following its transmission on Sky Max. All episodes are available on digital now, perfect for a post Halloween bingewatch.

And to celebrate we have a copy to give away!

Synopsis:

This riveting collection of stories features an acclaimed ensemble cast including Terry Crews (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Expendables), Olivia Munn (The Newsroom, X-Men: Apocalypse), Parker Posey (The White Lotus, Dazed and Confused), Anthony Edwards (ER, Top Gun), Jessie T. Usher (The Boys, Smile), Danny Ramirez (Top Gun: Maverick, Captain America: Brave New World), Daniella Pineda (Jurassic World: Dominion), Jillian Bell (Workaholics, 22 Jump Street), Poppy Liu (Hacks) and Samantha Morton (The Serpent Queen, The Walking Dead), who each offer a different perspective into the apocalypse, capturing not just the monsters that roam the earth, but the ones that live within us. 

 

Set in the months and years following the outbreak, the series follows the unique lives of new and familiar survivors, each facing the undead world in their own way. We follow doomsday prepper Joe (Crews) as he leaves his bunker on a quest to find his online friend and meets an unlikely ally in Evie (Munn) as they embark on a roadtrip that helps them find what they’re really looking for. There’s a tale of two hostile co-workers (Posey and Bell) who try to escape Atlanta, and each other, but find themselves in a time loop, reliving the hours before their deaths over and over again. And the origin story of The Walking Dead character Alpha (Morton) is revealed when we meet her as a mother trying to protect her child Lydia in a refuge. 

 

Other stories involve a settler (Liu), who seeks to convince a scientist (Edwards), that humanity must reclaim the land from the dead; a man (Usher) who wakes with no memory and is accused of murder and a traumatised couple (Pineda and Ramirez) who take refuge in a secluded house where terror may already lurk inside.  

 

The highly anticipated Tales of the Walking Dead is jam packed with gripping performances, cinematic storytelling and the much loved franchises’ trademark blend of adventure, survival, gore and heart. With a mix of dread, suspense and unexpected wit, each self-contained saga dives deep into the psyche of its characters – this is a must-have for fans and newcomers alike.  

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/4nCPnRA

Enter now for a chance to win.

Can you name every full TV series in The Walking Dead Franchise?

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 17-11-25

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.

REVIEW: The Toxic Avenger (2025 film) - Starring Peter Dinklage

Macon Blair’s take on The Toxic Avenger delivers the chaotic, grimy revival long-time fans were hoping for. As the fifth entry in the series and a remake of the 1984 cult hit, it leans fully into its identity as an ultra-violent black comedy. The mix of cartoonish gore, biting satire and surprising heart hits the right balance. Those seeking shock and excess will be well served, though anyone expecting a straight superhero story may be left uneasy.

Peter Dinklage stars as Winston Gooze, a weary janitor whose life changes after a toxic accident. He plays it with warmth and depth, giving Winston more than a monster’s rage. When the film needs emotion, he provides it. Jacob Tremblay’s turn as Wade, Winston’s stepson, adds heart and grounding to the madness.

Taylour Paige brings sharp energy as whistleblower J.J. Doherty, sparking much of the plot. Kevin Bacon revels in his sleaze as corrupt boss Bob Garbinger, while Elijah Wood adds a jittery menace as Fritz. Luisa Guerreiro, credited as the suit performer, delivers a committed physical performance as the Avenger himself.

The story is simple, which suits it. A crooked pharmaceutical company, BTH, sits at the centre, surrounded by mobsters, thugs, and a threatened community. Blair builds from these ingredients a mix of violent bursts, sick humour and moments of bleak comedy. It plays more as a parody than a reinvention, loud and filthy but laced with flashes of sincerity that stop it from being pure shock theatre.

It has flaws. The plot is deliberately thin, and at times it drifts like a collection of sketches joined by blood and slime. Some jokes drag on too long, and the middle stretch could use tightening. At just over 100 minutes, it slightly outstays its welcome. Anyone after nuance or precision storytelling won’t find it here.

Still, the film understands its purpose. Blair keeps the anarchic tone of the original alive while grounding it in the bond between Winston and Wade. Some moments shine, others fall flat, but the energy never dips for long. Strong performances, decent satire and a surprising sense of care beneath the chaos make it work.

The Toxic Avenger won’t appeal to everyone. It’s brash, shocking and unapologetically grotesque. Yet for those ready to enjoy the madness, it’s a loud, funny and oddly heartfelt reboot that respects its roots while standing on its own. I’d give it an 8 out of 10.

Out Now at https://apple.co/4ozVYwU

Interview with Alan Jones - Festival programmer, The Trieste Science+Fiction Festival

The Trieste Science+Fiction Festival, now in its 25th year, is a multidisciplinary event devoted to the exploration of the realms of the 'fantastic' genre, and the use of new technologies and experimental languages in film, television and visual arts. It presents 'fantastic' productions from all over the world, focusing particularly on science fiction and fantasy films, cinematographic and audio-visual works.

Alan Jones, Festival Programmer, tells us why he took the job, what his biggest challenges are and what we can expect from the 25th edition.

This is the 25th year for The Trieste Science+Fiction Festival. What do you think gives it its enduring appeal?

Science Fiction has always been about looking forward -  to an exciting future, where anything and everything is possible. That's why the genre endures because it's about hope, wonder and awe and it offers a safe space to explore complex social and ethical questions. The Trieste S+F audience really embraces that in a way I rarely see at other festivals. The pockets of fans discussing what they've just seen and why it's important - or not - in the overall scheme of things.  Everything within the festival  encourages critical thinking and because Trieste covers a whole range of events revolving around  education, family, gaming. literature and movies, a unique perspective is engendered. I have made it my mission to talk to as many members of the audience as possible and I'm always surprised and delighted by their dedication to engage in cosmic conversations. 

This is your fourth year at the helm. What inspired you to take the job and what is your biggest challenge?

I have been attending the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival for over 20 years now. I was first invited to be on the Jury and then became a regular attendee/stalker. I loved the city so much it has become my second home. So, when I was offered the role of Artistic Director I jumped at the chance to spend more time in the country I adore and with the people I have come to respect who mount this incredible undertaking every year. And it really is a monumental operation turning our main venue, the Teatro Rossetti, into a state-of-the-art cinema. I learnt very quickly my biggest challenge was providing as many quality science fiction movies as possible. Before my time there had been a drift away from that core mission and I found that was the main bone of contention with the audience. It's called the Trieste Science+Fiction Festival so Sci-Fi should be the main ingredient. It isn't rocket science... oh actually it is!

What makes science fiction such a powerful lens for exploring contemporary social and political themes in cinema today?

Science Fiction has always been the conduit for commenting on the present, you only have to look at old episodes of 'Star Trek' to see that. Using future scenarios as a mirror to reflect on what's happening now provides a means to discussing complex problems  like AI for example. Hopefully encouraging the imagination  to fly into the far reaches of the universe helps shape the future rather than merely predicting it. I've always said the outside world is never far from view in every SF enterprise, it might take time to discover it, but it's there. 

What are some of the most exciting trends or innovations you’re seeing in science fiction filmmaking right now?

While dystopian fantasy is still at the forefront - unsurprisingly considering the political flux the world is in - I do see hard sci-fi focusing on the more realistic near future issues  -  the 'five days in the future' concept - like AI, biotech, religion and climate change. I like the fact that some creatives are going back to early source material for inspiration like our opening film THE SHRINKING MAN based on the Richard Matheson classic tale of man's insignificance. Sci-Fi horror and other genre-blending is on the rise too and diverse perspectives are becoming more prevalent. 

How does the festival engage with new technologies such as VR, AI, or interactive storytelling formats?

In endless discussions in our wonderful public forum, The Dome, in Piazza Borsa. This fantastic venue became a major  talking point with every Extra-Triestrian last year and I'm thrilled we have the  opportunity to build on its relevance in these key areas. You must remember that Trieste is the city of science anyway and every avenue is constantly explored. That is what the city council expects and what we provide.

What role does European sci-fi cinema play on the global stage compared to American or Asian productions?

It offers a valuable alternative to the dominance of Marvel fluff that's for sure. Each country has their own social and political problems, and they can focus on those issues in their own particular way through language and the genre lens. The cultural and literary influences are different too and that means more thought-provoking character-driven  stories that refuse to rely on expensive CGI spectacle alone. That's why the Melies prizes exist - to celebrate the differences and focus on the philosophical and ethical challenges that appeal to a more intellectual viewership.

What is the biggest challenge when curating a science fiction festival - audience expectations, logistics, or simply the vastness of the genre itself?

Put simply,  the hope there are enough science fiction movies in any one given year to go round and make the programme interesting, exciting and accessible. Plus ensuring the originality of each movie  will reach out and touch the audience in the way you want it to. 

How do you approach diversity in programming - not just in terms of geography, but also genre, tone, and storytelling style?

Hard to put into words the answer to this question. My  attitude and stance to the genre throughout my entire career has always veered towards diversity.  Because of a new book project I'm currently conceptualising, I've gone through all my set reports over the past five decades, from STAR WARS and ALIEN through THE MATRIX and HELLBOY and it's the one constant I've noticed in my journalism. Why would I change now especially when it's becoming the norm - finally!

What role do emerging filmmakers and debut features play in your programming strategy?

An enormously important one. I take pride in  providing a showcase for emerging talent and first-time filmmakers. They are the future, and if you can define that special something in their work, they will always remember you and be a festival guest for life. 

Do you see any current trends or shifts in the science fiction genre that excite, or worry, you?

Well, that's the beauty of the science fiction genre, the zeitgeist consistently changes.   Today's AI concern will be tomorrow's robot holocaust, global warming, Mars colonisation and medical immortality. I love the unexpected, the new, the challenging so bring it on. But mainly bring it to Trieste as I'm here for a few more years yet!

Finally, tell us what you’re personally highlights are for this year.

The entire TS+F Festival is a highlight because it isn't just about movies but being a part of the Trieste cultural fabric. I take my role very seriously in that respect because, while some may not be interested in the films we show, they might be regarding books, video games, or the discussion forums we organize. I am there for every demographic and never forget that. My favourite films this year are Jan Kounen's THE SHRINKING MAN, Jean Dujardin is terrific in this remake, Glenn McQuaid's quite brilliant THE RESTORATION AT GRAYSON MANOR and quite the best documentary I've seen in ages, Michael Almeryeda and Courtney Stephens' JOHN LILLY AND THE EARTH COINCIDENCE CONTROL OFFICE. 

COMPETITION: Win Daughters of Darkness 4K/Blu-Ray Limited Edition

From Radiance Films comes this cult masterpiece from visionary Belgian auteur Harry Kümel, whose bold cinematic flair transformed European genre filmmaking in the 1970s

And to celebrate we have a copy to give away!

Synopsis:

Kümel delivers an unforgettable gothic nightmare, set in an eerily deserted seaside hotel.

Newlyweds Stefan (John Karlen – The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey) and Valerie’s (Danielle Ouimet – The Possession of Virginia) honeymoon is disrupted by the arrival of Countess Elizabeth Bathory – played with ethereal menace by Delphine Seyrig (The Day of the Jackal) – and her mysterious companion. As night falls and secrets surface, the couple are drawn into a hypnotic vortex of seduction and vampiric terror. 

Acclaimed for its stunning visuals and unapologetic eroticism, Daughters of Darkness is a landmark in horror cinema and remains one of the most seductive vampire films ever made.

Daughters of Darkness Limited Edition 4K/UHD Blu-ray and Limited Edition Blu-ray released 27 October

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

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 27-10-25

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.