Previews and Reviews that are Z's Views
One of my favorite monster movies is The Creature from the Black Lagoon. Although it produced two sequels, neither is as good as the original. Isn’t time we got a reboot?
At any rate, this photo is from Revenge of the Creature. Truth be told, I like the photo better than the movie.
Source: Hammer Horror Films.
Frankenstein (1931)
Director: James Whale
Screenplay by: Garrett Fort, Francis Edward Faragoh based on FRANKENSTEIN by Mary Shelley
Starring: Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, Boris Karloff, Edward Van Sloan, Dwight Frye and Marilyn Harris.
Tagline: The Man Who Made A Monster!
The Story:
Dr. Henry Frankenstein (Clive) dreams of creating a living being from body parts stolen from cadavers. Frankenstein’s hunchbacked assistant, Fritz (Frye) steals the corpses of recently hung criminals. When Frankenstein achieves success, his creation becomes uncontrollable.
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
Although based on Mary Shelley’s famous novel, the movie uses her story as a springboard. The “monster” looks different than Shelley described thanks to make-up artist Jack P. Pierce. Universal copyrighted the look through 2026. In the novel the “monster” is intelligent and able to carry on conversations. It was quite a shock for me as a kid reading the novel after seeing the movie.
Although Boris Karloff isn’t listed in the opening credits, and is covered by heavy makeup throughout the film, Frankenstein made him a star!
Happy Halloween!
What better way to celebrate than with this cool Dracula poster by Satchel Nickoma Couture?
The Omega Man (1971)
Director: Boris Sagal
Screenplay by: John William Corrington, Joyce H. Corrington based on I AM LEGEND by Richard Matheson
Starring: Charlton Heston, Anthony Zerbe, Rosalind Cash, Paul Koslo, Eric Laneuville, Lincoln Kilpatrick, John Dierkes, Monika Henreid, Linda Redfearn and Stewart East.
Tagline: The last man alive… is not alone!
The Story:
Two years after a World War where biological weapons were used, U.S. Army Col. Robert Neville, M.D. (Heston) believes himself to be the only living human. Neville spends his days looking for signs of other humans and killing any mutants that he finds. The mutants rest during the day and come out at night.
To protect himself, Neville has fortified an apartment building. He lives on the top floor. The lower floors are booby trapped. He has floodlights to brighten the area since bright lights blind the mutants. Neville also has dozens of automatic weapons and bombs to keep them at bay. Each night the mutants show up to taunt and attempt to breach Neville’s home.
When Neville learns that their is a small band of humans living somewhere near, he makes it his mission to find and help them. But the mutants are also looking. It’s all going to come to a head and sometimes there are no happy endings.
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
I saw The Omega Man when it was first released. I was 12, and the perfect age for sci-fi/horror. I loved Charlton Heston in Ben-Hur and more importantly The Planet of the Apes. So I was excited to see his next adventure. I wasn’t disappointed. Re-visiting The Omega Man in the years (decades) that followed I found it to be less thrilling. There are scenes (particularly those with the motorcycle) that the Neville is obviously not Heston. There’s a 70s vibe that permeates the film. The clothes, the language, the attitude are all hip. At least they’re supposed to be.
Heston spends a lot of time shirtless. He was in great shape for his age, so perhaps he put it in his contract. ; )
Director Boris Sagal mostly worked as a director of television shows and made-for-tv movies. At times The Omega Man feels like one.
Rosalind Cash plays Heston’s love interest. In 1971, this was controversial. I guess it still is with some folks. Look for a young Eric Laneuville of Room 222 and St. Elsewhere fame as one of the kids. Laneuville went on to a career both acting and directing!
The Omega Man isn’t great cinema, But it does qualify as a fun “drive-in” movie.
Check out this cool Day of the Dead alt poster by JJ Harrison. It is available from Bottleneck Gallery. You can see more of JJ’s art here and here.
Magic (1978)
Director: Richard Attenborough
Screenplay by: William Goldman based on his novel MAGIC.
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Ann-Margret, Burgess Meredith, Ed Lauter, E.J. André, David Ogden Stiers, Jerry Houser, Lillian Randolph, Beverly Sanders and Steve Hart.
Tagline: Abracadabra, I sit on his knee. Presto chango, and now he is me. Hocus Pocus, we take her to bed. Magic is fun; we’re dead.
The Story:
Charles “Corky” Withers (Hopkins) is a failed magician. Nerves got the best of him when he was on stage. So Corky developed a new act. He performs as a ventriloquist with a dirty-mouth, wisecracking dummy named Fats. Corky is on the verge of a huge deal for a television special and more. The only hitch is that the producers are demanding Corky get the usual medical check-ups.
And THAT is a deal breaker.
You see, Corky isn’t in his right mind. Just ask Fats. He’ll tell ya.
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
I saw Magic when it was first released. My girlfriend (now my wife) really liked it. I found Magic to be just okay. I recently re-watched Magic and my opinion of it improved.
Richard Attenborough perhaps best known as Hammond in Jurassic Park directed Magic. You might think that the director of A Bridge Too Far, Ghandi and A Chorus Line would be an odd choice for a small horror/suspense film, but Attenborough does a fine job,
Anthony Hopkins is marvelous as the tormented talent. Burgess Meredith goes low-key as Corky’s flashy manager. Their “five minute” scene is a standout. Ann Margaret downplays the make-up and glamour. She’s still a looker. Ed Lauter gets to show off his acting chops as Ann Margaret’s about-to-be-jilted husband. His scene with Hopkins in the rowboat is another movie highlight.
My biggest nit-to-pick is that Ann Margaret’s character should have seen the signs that Corky wasn’t all there. Most folks would counter that she couldn’t see past the bad relationship with her husband, and Corky, her high school sweetheart was a way out.
The Night Stalker (1972)
Director: John Llewellyn Moxey
Screenplay by: Richard Matheson based on THE KOLCHAK PAPERS by Jeff Rice
Starring: Darren McGavin, Carol Lynley, Simon Oakland, Ralph Meeker, Claude Akins, Charles McGraw, Kent Smith, Stanley Adams, Larry Linville, Jordan Rhodes, Barry Atwater, Edward Faulkner, Buddy Joe Hooker and Elisha Cook Jr..
Tagline: A vampire killer loose in Las Vegas? It’s hard to believe, isn’t it?
The Story:
A serial killer in Las Vegas continues to leave victims drained of blood. Reporter Carl Kolchak (McGavin) believes that the murderer believes he’s a vampire. When Kolchak turns in an article saying that, he is called into a meeting with his editor and the police. Kolchak’s story is rejected. His editor thinks it would tarnish the paper’s reputation. The police think it would panic the public.
What everyone doesn’t know, but will learn – the killer is a vampire!
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
The Night Stalker was released as an ABC Movie of the Week in 1972. I was 11 years old and couldn’t wait to see it. I wasn’t the only one. The Night Stalker became the highest rated tv movie up to that point. The following year, Kolchak returned when The Night Strangler was released. Kolchak: The Night Stalker was then adapted into a television series. It lasted one season, but became a cult classic.
The Night Stalker was produced by Dan “Dark Shadows” Curtis. It features an outstanding cast considering it was a made-for-tv movie. Darren McGavin is Carl Kolchak. It was cool to see him play the character in two movies and the television series. Carol Lynley doesn’t have much to do as Kolchak’s girlfriend. Ralph Meeker has a nice role as Kolchak’s buddy on the force. The Night Stalker is filled with great character actors including Simon Oakland, Claude Akins, Charles McGraw, Kent Smith and Stanley Adams. Even Elisha Cook Jr. gets a cameo!
I loved The Night Stalker when I was a kid. A recent rewatch was fun. The Night Stalker rates 3 of 5 stars.
I like the looks of Wintertide. Deal me in.
Release Date: 11/14/2023
Directed by: John Barnard
Starring: Niamh Carolan, Solange Sookram, Jeremy Walmsley, Jesse Nobess, Colleen Furlan, Darcy Fehr, John B. Lowe, Onalee Ames, Michael O’Sullivan
Synopsis: Beth, a volunteer watch person of an isolated northern city battles a plague of depression that transforms the few remaining residents into empty, zombie-like automatons. She discovers that by entering an alternative dimension through her own dreams, she’s able to stave off the illness during the long, possibly endless winter. But will her power be enough to sustain her?
The Devil on Trial (2023)
Director: Chris Holt
Written by: Chris Holt
Tagline: Did the Devil Do It?
The Story:
In 1981, Arne Johnson stabbed Alan Bono to death. Bono was Johnson’s landlord and had, in the past, dated Johnson’s girlfriend. Although there was no doubt that Johnson was the murderer, he claimed he didn’t remember doing it. When the case went to trial, his defense was that he was possessed by the devil/a demon and therefore wasn’t responsible.
This documentary explores the foundation for that defense and the result of the trial.
In 1980, Arne Johnson was dating Debbie Glatzel. Some of Debbie’s family believed that her younger brother, David was possessed by the devil. On more than one occasion David had to be held down by family members (and Arne) while David cursed, screamed and convulsed. David’s behavior was extreme enough that his mother contacted Ed and Lorraine Warren. The Warrens were famous for their involvement in The Amityville Murders. The Warrens assisted David’s mother in getting the church to conduct an exorcism. During the procedure, as David was struggling, Arne reportedly yelled at the demon, “Leave this little kid alone. Take on me. I’m here.”
So when Arne killed David, he asserted that the devil/demon had made him do it. This documentary uses actual voice recordings. archival footage, home movies and actor recreations to recount the story.
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
While Arne wanted to use the “the devil made me do it” defense, he never got to. The judge ruled that “possession” was not a valid defense. He didn’t allow it. Arne ended up being found guilty of manslaughter.
Now to David Glatzel. Some of David’s family believed that he was possessed. One of David’s brothers said it was an act. He said that during one of David’s sessions while cursing, hitting and yelling, David’s father came into the room. Father grabbed David and slapped him. Dad told David to shut up and sit in a chair. The brother said, “The devil did as he was told”. In other words, it was an act.
David’s mother was a religious woman. She may have believed that David was possessed at the start. By the time the Warrens got involved, it seemed to be more about fame and the money. Also near the end of the documentary a sick allegation against the mother is made. I won’t give it away, but if true indicates mom had serious issues of her own.
As to the Warrens, this film puts them in a very bad light. They took advantage of David’s family. The Warrens kept almost all of the money off book and movie deals in regard to David’s story. Money that had been promised to the Glatzel family. If you’ve seen The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, that’s the Glatzel family’s story.
The Devil on Trial leaves it to viewers to determine if the possessions were real or not, There’s evidence that could support whatever you decide. As to the actions of the Warrens, the evidence points to them not being on the up and up.
The Fall of the House of Usher (2023)
Director: Mike Flanagan (Eps.1 – 2, 5 – 6); Michael Fimognari (Eps. 3 – 4, 7 -8)
Teleplay by: Mike Flanagan (Ep. 1); Emmy Grinwis and Mike Flanagann (Ep. 2); Justina Ireland and Mike Flanagan (Ep. 3); Mat Johnson and Mike Flanagan (Ep. 4); Dani Parker (Ep. 5); Rebecca Leigh Klingel and Mike Flanagan (Ep. 6);Jamie Flanagan and Mike Flanagan (Ep. 7); Mike Flanagan and Kiele Sanchez (Ep. 8)
Starring: Carla Gugino, Bruce Greenwood, Mary McDonnell, Henry Thomas, Rahul Kohli, Samantha Sloyan, T’Nia Miller, Zach Gilford, Willa Fitzgerald, Michael Trucco, Katie Parker, Matt Biedel, Crystal Balint, Ruth Codd, Kyliegh Curran, Carl Lumbly, Kate Siegel, Sauriyan Sapkota, Malcolm Goodwin and Mark Hamill.
Tagline: Nevermore
The Plot:
Roderick Usher (Greenwood) and his sister Madeline (McDonnell) teamed to take over Fortunato Pharmaceuticals. Along the way they fudged test results, broke laws, lied under oath, ruined lives and committed at least one murder. Now, decades later Roderick is CEO of Fortunato and one of the richest men on the planet. His sister remains his trusted partner. Over the years Roderick fathered several children from different mothers. Now the kids are grown and using daddy’s money to try to build their own dynasties. But when Roderick’s offspring begin dying under unusual circumstances, one after the other, we learn what happened all those years ago that leads to The Fall of the House of Usher.
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
Mike Flanagan has created another winner. Rather than a literal adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher, Flannigan has given us modern interpretations of many of Poe’s short stories, poems and characters integrated into a single, unified story. This is genius.
The Fall of the House of Usher features an amazing cast. I would not be surprised to several Emmy nominations from this production. Standouts include:
While I’ve turned the spotlight on the actors/actresses above, every member of the cast was excellent. Mike Flannigan writes a great story, gets the right people for each part and then assists them in creating amazing performances. The Fall of the House of Usher is an perfect example. I look forward to what Flannigan does next.
I like Kelley Jones’ take on The Bride of Frankenstein. Often artists want to make her a sexy monster. That’s cool by me. However, if we want to think about a woman made up of different parts of cadavers that is then brought back to life… well, that’s just plain scary. And that is the Bride of Frankenstein that Kelley Jones gives us.
Source: Comic Crusaders.
War of the Worlds: The Attack (2023)
Director: Junaid Syed
Screenwriter: Junaid Syed, Tom Jolliffe
Cast: Sam Gittins, Vincent Regan, Alhaji Fofana, Lara Lemon.
Tagline: They Are Here
The Plot…
Three teenagers are at ground zero for one of the Martian landings. Once the Martians begin their takeover the kids fight among themselves, with others as well as the alien invaders in their effort to survive.
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
Take three teenagers, a Cliff notes version of H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds and turn it into a low, low budget movie. Then you’ll have War of the Worlds: The Attack.
War of the Worlds: The Attack (2023) rates 2 of 5 stars.
Lara Parker, born Mary Lamar Rickey, died October 12th, the result of cancer. Ms. Parker was 84.
Lara Parker was an actress and author. After appearing in local plays, Lara decided to go to auditions in New York. In just her second audition she was cast in the daytime serial Dark Shadows. Ms. Parker became an instant hit. Her character was killed off, but her popularity was so great, she was brought back to play different roles.
Lara Parker continued acting on stage, in feature films and on television until 1991. She then retired and became a teacher. Ms. Parker also authored four Dark Shadows novels. In 2012, Lara Parker returned to acting for a role in Tim Burton’s Dark Shadows movie. That led to more acting roles until she again retired in 2016.
Some of Lara Parker’s television appearances include: Dark Shadows (269 episodes); One Life to Live; N.Y.P.D.; Kung Fu; The F.B.I.; Medical Center; Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law; Police Woman; The Rockford Files; Kolchak, The Night Stalker; S.W.A.T.; Emergency; The Six Million Dollar Man (2 episodes); Kojak (2 episodes); Alice; Washington Behind Closed Doors (6 episodes); The Incredible Hulk; Switch (3 episodes); Baretta; Quincy (2 episodes); Barnaby Jones; Hawaii 5-0 (2 episodes); Mrs. Columbo; Galactica 1980 (2 episodes); The Fall Guy; Manimal; Remington Steele and Highway to Heaven.
Some of Suzanne Somer’s feature film appearances include: Hi, Mom!; Night of Dark Shadows; Save the Tiger; Airport 1975; Race with the Devil; Dark Shadows and Doctor Mabuse.
Like most who were at the right age, I first saw Lara Parker on Dark Shadows. Not many actors/actresses get a huge hit for their first professional work. My favorite Lara Parker role was in the movie Race with the Devil. I love that when Lara Parker decided to retire from acting she turned to teaching and writing. What a multitalented person she was.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lara Parker’s family, friends and fans.
I always liked Art Adams cover for The Creature of the Black Lagoon #1, You can see a lagoon-sized version at Art Adams’ site.
Cape Fear (1962)
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Screenwriter: James R. Webb based on The Executioners by John D. MacDonald
Cast: Gregory Peck, Robert Mitchum, Polly Bergen, Lori Martin, Martin Balsam, Jack Kruschen, Telly Savalas, Barrie Chase, Paul Comi, Edward Platt and Will Wright.
Tagline: Now, he had only one weapon left – Murder!…To prevent an even more shocking crime!
The Plot…
Max Cady (Mitchum) was recently released from prison. Cady served eight years for a sadistic rape. Now Cady has one thing on his mind, to take revenge on Sam Bowden (Peck). It was Sam Bowden who stopped Cady’s assault. It was also Bowden’s testimony that got Cady convicted.
Sam Bowden is a well respected small town lawyer. But the law is going to be of no help. Cady is smart and as devious as he is cruel. Cady stops Bowden on the street. From all appearances the meeting is cordial. But Cady lets Bowden know he’s out of prison. He subtly threatens Bowden, his wife and their young daughter.
Cady increases the threats and intimidation. Bowden realizes that Cady won’t stop until he’s done the sick things he’s threatened. There may be only one way to stop Max Cady…
Thoughts (beware of spoilers)
The film covers some very dark topics for 1962. Despite censors, the movie makes it very clear what Max Cady has done and plans to do.
I like to describe Cape Fear as the best Hitchcock movie not made by Hitchcock. The score by Bernard Herrmann helps. J. Lee Thompson was an Alfred Hitchcock fan and it was his intent to film scenes like the master. Cape Fear is my favorite film directed by J. Lee Thompson.
I’m a Robert Mitchum fan. Mitchum always adds to a film’s enjoyment factor. His portrayal of Max Cady is my favorite Robert Mitchum performance. That’s saying a lot because he’s always good.
Gregory Peck was an excellent choice to play the good man who discovers that the law isn’t going to save him or his family. Peck and Mitchum are supported by an outstanding cast. Polly Bergen, Lori Martin, Martin Balsam, Jack Kruschen, Telly Savalas and Barrie Chase all get opportunities to shine. Look for Edward Platt in a cameo.
Cape Fear (1962) rates 5 of 5 stars.
