Week 22: This week's rolling film blog, looking at the latest movie news and trailers from the British and international indie film scene.
Film News & Trailer Talk As It Happens, Week Commencing 29th May - 4th June 2023.
CRUEL SUMMER 1 & 2 available now on DVD & Blu-ray from Scream Team Releasing.
CRUEL SUMMER - Prepare for a heart-stopping slasher experience in the chilling creation by director Scott Tepperman! In this thrilling narrative, a group of college students meticulously organize a grand pre-graduation party at an isolated lake house, aiming to recreate the nostalgic atmosphere of an "80s murder mystery" weekend. Little do they know, an ominous figure wearing a menacing mask has surreptitiously infiltrated their celebration, plunging them into a nightmarish ordeal. As the tale unfolds, shocking twists and harrowing encounters lurk around every corner, mirroring the escalating madness of the deranged assailant. Who will emerge as the lone survivor amidst this blood-drenched rampage, or is their fate forever entwined in the grips of a truly Cruel Summer?
CRUEL SUMMER 2 - Brace yourself for the blood-soaked continuation of the Cruel Summer saga, where chaos reigns and nostalgia thrives! In the aftermath of a horrifying massacre at a vacation house, the resilient survivors, guided by the wisdom of medical experts, embark on a bold mission to confront their inner demons. Their chosen path? Staging a gripping theatrical production that brings their harrowing experiences to life on stage. However, lurking in the shadows is a vengeful figure from their past, driven by an insidious desire to ensure these unsuspecting actors meet a grim and untimely demise. With time ticking away, their tales hang in the balance, and the stage may transform into their final curtain call. Prepare for a relentless battle against a familiar face hell-bent on revenge, as the Cruel Summer saga intensifies with each passing moment!
Cruel Summer 1 & 2 are now available on Blu-ray from Scream Team Releasing. https://screamteamreleasing.com/collections/cruel-summer-merch-store
The World Premiere of Tyrrell Shaffner's KATIE’S MOM will take place at the Dances With Films (DWF 26) July 2nd, With Cast and Crew in Attendance.
KATIE'S MOM is a heartfelt comedy that draws inspiration from "The Graduate" but offers a fresh perspective through its protagonist, influenced by Mrs. Robinson. Set in present-day Pasadena, California, the story revolves around Nancy Rosenfeld, portrayed by Dina Meyer (known for her roles in "Detective Knight," "Starship Troopers," and "Saw"). Nancy, a nurturing mother and recent divorcee, has her cherished Jewish/Christmas holiday celebration with her adult children disrupted when she becomes infatuated with Alex Rojas, played by Aaron Dominguez (seen in "Only Murders in the Building"), her daughter's captivating new boyfriend. Their exhilarating affair shakes up her comfortable routine and propels her towards self-discovery, unveiling the woman she was destined to be.
@CentralCityMedia to release a.i sci-fi, SIGHT EXTENDED in the UK, from June 12th.
Outline: Set in a not-too-distant future where augmented-reality eyepieces reign supreme, a troubled young man grappling with agoraphobia undergoes an extraordinary metamorphosis after stumbling upon a cryptic application that turns every aspect of his existence into an immersive game.
EXTENDED is the directorial debut of Daniel Lazo and Eran May-Raz, and expands upon the viral and acclaimed short film Sight (2012).
Catherine Hardwicke's PRISONER'S DAUGHTER will be coming to Prime Video UK, 4th July, courtesy of Vertigo Releasing.
Outline: PRISONER’S DAUGHTER is an intense and gripping drama that delves into the life of Max (portrayed by Cox), a former convict facing a terminal cancer diagnosis. With compassionate leave granted, he finds solace in moving in with his estranged daughter, Maxine (played by Beckinsale). Maxine, a single mother struggling to provide for her young son, Ezra (portrayed by Convery), reluctantly agrees to let Max stay, but harbors no intentions of reconciling with him or allowing him to develop a relationship with Ezra.
As if their strained dynamic wasn't challenging enough, Maxine also grapples with the presence of Tyler (played by Ritter), Ezra's father—an abusive addict who seeks greater control over their son's life. As Max yearns for one last chance at redemption in Maxine's eyes, they must confront the haunting specter of his dark and violent past, which threatens to unravel them all. Prisoner's Daughter is a poignant exploration of family, forgiveness, and the painful consequences of one's actions.
Directed by Catherine Harwicke, PRISONER'S DAUGHTER stars Kate Beckinsale, Brian Cox, Christopher Convery, Jon Huertas with Ernie Hudson and Tyson Ritter.
PRISONER’S DAUGHTER will released on Prime Video, 4th of July 2023, courtesy of @VertigoFilmsUK
Horror-tinged psychological thriller BIBI celebrates World Premiere at Dances With Films (DWF 26)
Horror-tinged psychological thriller "BIBI" premieres at Dances With Films (DWF 26) on June 29th, with cast and crew in attendance. https://danceswithfilms.com/bibi/.
Outline: In this lush, foreboding, atmospheric psychological thriller, Vivian Ashwood (Elizabeth Paige, Modern Love) is failing to cope after a tragic loss. Struggling to raise her daughter Bibi (Judith Ann DiMinni), she turns to prescription drugs and alcohol to soothe her anxieties and depression. Soon, the lines begin to blur between Vivian's routine nightmare and her reality. A strange man begins stalking Vivian, causing her to unravel even further. Bibi, also devastated by the loss of her sister and upset at Vivian for not protecting them both, only makes Vivian more unsure of the truth. After continuous torment, Vivian searches for a way to protect herself and Bibi from the stalker by whatever means necessary.
Directed by Christopher Beatty, BIBI stars Elizabeth Paige, Judith Ann DiMinni, Tammy Blanchard, Rick Zahn, Juliana Davies, Rowan Castro, Logan Hunter, Nathan Faudre.
North American Release of Highly-Anticipated Slasher Sequel WHAT THE WATERS LEFT BEHIND: SCARS on July 18th 2023.
WHAT THE WATERS LEFT BEHIND: SCARS, a film festival hit is written by Camilio Zaffora and directed by horror master Nicolas Onetti.
Outline: Five years after the release of Onetti's initial film "What the Waters Left Behind" in 2017, the sequel takes us back to the desolate city of Epecuén. This time, the focus is on an Anglo-American indie rock band who find themselves stranded in this forsaken place. As their internal conflicts and tour mishaps become insignificant, they soon realize the horrifying nightmare that lies ahead.
WHAT THE WATERS LEFT BEHIND: SCARS stars David Michigan, Mario Alarcon, Magui Bravi and German Baudino in the this extreme slasher horror.
WHAT THE WATERS LEFT BEHIND: SCARS is releasing July 18 on VOD, Blu-ray, and DVD.
Signature Entertainment set to release Sebastien Blanc’s sci-fi horror CEREBRUM, on Digital Platforms 3rd July.
Outline: William (Tobi King Bakare, I May Destroy You), a young and insecure man, wakes up from a coma to find his controlling father Richard (Steve Oram, Sightseers) watching over him, while his beloved mother Amelia (Ramona Von Pusch, Der Rebell – Von Leimen nach Wimbledon) is nowhere to be seen. William returns home to find his mother, who seems to be constantly avoiding him. As he tries to find out the truth about what happened to his mother, the real consequences of his past actions start to unravel, soon revealing a horrifying and dark truth – forcing William to take one of the most difficult decisions of his life.
DANGER GOD: The love and lives of a Hollywood stuntman. GARY KENT - 1933-2023
The cherished Hollywood stuntman GARY KENT, whose remarkable life served as an inspiration for Brad Pitt's character in Quentin Tarantino's iconic film "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," sadly passed away last week.
Immerse yourself in the extraordinary life of the late and legendary Hollywood stuntman, whose remarkable contributions graced the silver screen in timeless classics like "Freebie and the Bean," "Phantom of the Paradise," "Bubba Ho-Tep," "The Pyramid," "Lethal Pursuit," and numerous others. Discover the full scope of his captivating journey through a comprehensive documentary that offers profound insights and captivating interviews with esteemed figures such as Esai Morales (Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1), Marc Singer (The Beastmaster), Monte Hellman (Reservoir Dogs), Richard Rush (The Stunt Man), and many more.
DANGER GOD is available on Digital & DVD from Wild Eye Releasing.
Now available to stream on Vimeo
Richard Driscoll's book of the dead horror, THE NECRONOMICON, now available to stream on Vimeo
Outline: Step into the realm of HP Lovecraft's imagination and venture into the tale of The Necronomicon, often referred to as the sinister tome of The Book Of The Dead. This malevolent book, rumored to be bound with human flesh, possesses the uncanny power to resurrect the dead. Crafted by the most maleficent individual in existence, the sorcerer Aleister Crowley, during his descent into the abyss of infernal darkness. Now, Dragon Studios invites you to explore a realm hitherto confined to the pages of HP Lovecraft's writings. Embark on a journey to encounter The Necronomicon yourself.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable film experience as acclaimed filmmaker Richard Driscoll unveils a chilling narrative that will relentlessly grip your core. Brace yourself as your heart is torn apart and your soul is plunged into the depths of terror while witnessing the creation of one of the most spine-tingling films ever conceived.
Within the eerie realm of the Necronomicon, unsuspecting souls are ensnared and their essence captured in a sinister dance with death. Among the unfortunate victims, comic book writer George Carney embarks on what he believes to be a research trip to New Orleans for his latest literary creation. Little does he know, his true purpose is to serve as a vessel, destined to impregnate the witch Zilia. Her insidious plan seeks to drain Carney's very soul, enabling the rebirth of Alistair Crowley's malevolent spirit within their unholy offspring.
THE NECRONOMICON stars; Steven Craine. Michael Madsen. Tom Sizemore in one of his last films. Bai Ling. Lysette Anthony and Danny Lopez. Written. Produced and Directed by Richard Driscoll. A Dragon Studios production.
