Philly gets a Compound Fracture

Philly Gets a Compound Fracture

A few months ago, Tyler Mane, Michael Myers from Zombie's Halloween, and I discussed his film "Compound Fracture" and the special screening he was putting together in Philly. He explained how they would tour with the film, a method of promotion that is rarely done, including a Questions and Answers segment and really use a grassroots approach to spreading the word and giving back to the fans. 

Last night I ventured out to Philly and attended this screening and let me say this....this might have been one of the best film going experiences I have attended. Tyler and his wife, Renae Geerlings wrote and star in Compound Fracture and you can tell, they set out to make a quality film, wanted to have some fun and accomplished both. Before I get to the film, let's talk about the experience itself....the screening was held at the Ritz East, which is a very nice theater..so nice that they even put the calorie count on the popcorn bucket, luckily, I wasn't worried about my waistline...I'm fat, the lie is over. Tyler and Renae are extremely inviting and personable and really want you, the invitee to have the best experience possible. From the Red Carpet treatment, to the give aways, the behind the scenes mini featurette (similar to a DVD extra) and they wrap the night with a very intimate Q&A. What struck me the most was their honesty about things...from it being tough to not try to control everything, to the writing process plus, what the future holds for Mane Entertainment. 

Dimension & Mane

Compound Fracture was the best film I've seen this year thus far, yes, better than Evil Dead, better than MaMa and better than the Texas Chainsaw 3-D films. This film has the elements of the Supernatural, Witchcraft and more importantly, protecting your family. Mane, plays the lead Michael, with Geerlings playing his Fiancee Juliette. Muse Watson, known best for his role at the fisherman in I Know What You Did Last Summer plays Mane's Father, Gary who is struggling with old age and dementia while Mane's real life pal, Derek Mears (Jason from the Friday the 13th remake) plays the villain William. Special shout out to Leslie Easterbrook here as she plays a very different role for her in a while, Annabelle, Gary's new wife who is being both mentally and psychically abused by him. 

Without spoiling the film, let me give you an overview - Michael's sister was killed by her Husband William, in the process, William is killed. This leaves her son in Michael and Juliette's hands. As they visit Michael's Father, Gary, you quickly see that things have spiraled out of control as Gary has built a "Witchcraft Compound". This takes you for a ride to the supernatural with a final showdown that has to be seen.

The story unravels as the film plays out...something that is a rarity in today's cinema. Typically, the story has to smack you in the face because studios are afraid to trust the audience actually has some brains...Compound Fracture is a slow burning film that plays like building train tracks..with each piece being laid out as the story progresses...very well done. The cinematography uses a great blend of grittiness, modern approaches and also security camera footage to capture the action. Plus, I have to tip my hat to Tyler, as he portrayed a hero that is actually a little vulnerable, really well. His on screen chemistry with Geerlings is genuine and shines through. Muse and Mears are great, plus, did I mention how much I love Easterbrook? Anytime you can see "Michael Myers vs Jason Voorhees" any horror nerd will lose their shit with excitement..that alone will sell tickets. 

In closing, I will say this...if this tour comes to your town, make sure you go. Make sure you support this group, make sure you spread the word. This is a perfect example of US taking back the movies from big studios and allowing creative people to make great films. 

Visit their site at www.CompoundFractureTheMovie.com  and see if they are coming near you. 

No Clowning Around - My 1st Horror Short

No Clowning Around

Typically, I'm known more for my humor, than my serious side. I wanted to share part of my life, on film...sort of. Let me explain...

A few weeks ago, Kim (my Wife) and I were fortunate to be a part of "Cuts Right Over", a horror short by Matt Burd. Now, I've known Matt for years, probably close to 10, from our days working at WXW Pro Wrestling to having Matt be a part of Late Night at the Horror Hotel. Watching Matt's last short, "The Pizza Man" got me thinking more about trying to write and make my own short.

Kim and I had a blast on set, it was refreshing, after taking off quite a bit of time from acting. Sometimes real life takes over from the fake world. I stopped working in Wrestling, stopped writing reviews and only continued to work on our XOC Podcast, which continues to grow a strong following. Kim had a health scare in Nov and it sent us reeling. Now, healthy, it was time to get creative again.

If you listen to our podcast (http://www.xocpodcast.com/) I have never shyed away from being truthful in my dealings with depression. Depression is a daily, tough battle. Never sure what triggers it, or when you can snap out of it. The best way to explain it...it's day to day. No Clowning Around was basically, my battle...on paper, soon to be on film.

I have seen my fair share of shorts and features, good and bad. I have even been in some stinkers..but have also been fortunate to take part in some projects I'm extremely proud of. I am hoping you guys will follow the progress and join me in watching this short. Matt Burd, will be co-directing with me. I will be relying in some friends to help get this made. More details on who else will be involved will be coming soon.

Pre-production is underway now, with a shooting schedule in July. We are hopeful for an October release. Thanks to all!

http://www.noclowningaround.com/

Spending A Night with "The Boys Next Door"...wait...err...it's a Movie!!

The Boys Next Door review

1985

With the Holidays approaching, everyone is reviewing Christmas movies...but not THIS guy...(I will probably review one next week..this is a phony claim that will fail to impress anyone). In a drunken Holiday stupor spree of searching for films...I stumble upon my long lost friend....The Boys Next Door.

The Boys Next Door stars Charlie Sheen, years before he had Tiger's Blood and was from Space...or whatever he claims made and Maxwell Caulfield...way before anyone could celebrate Rex Manning Day (Oh yeah, I was a card carrying member of that fan club). This duo portray Bo and Roy, a twosome that are fresh out of high school and are ready to have a killer weekend.

Before we start with my thoughts and praise of this film, I want to note that Penelope Spheeris is behind the lens for this gem. Yes, the same Penelope Spheeris that brought Waynes World into my life, yes...the same Penelope Spheeris who was responsible for The Beverly Hillbillies movie..wait, she may not want me to tell anyone. Seriously, she does an Amazing job in building suspense and uses her camera angles and lighting perfect. For the time, 1985, I look back at this and smile. One scene where Roy and Bo have crashed a Graduation party...Roy (Caulfield) is sitting pool side...staring and you can see the pain and hate on his face. Great use of dramatic music inserts also. The opening montage of Serial Killers is chilling and used properly to set the tone for this film. She knocked this one out of the park...can't believe this movie doesn't get more praise.

We get a glimpse of home life for Bo and Roy, neither are good...Bo (Sheen) is loved but seems to be an after thought, while Roy looks to be the victim of a drunken Father who probably wasn't afraid to beat his ass when provoked. Driving a primed RoadRunner, Bo and Roy decide they want to have a mini vacation before reporting to the town factory to enter adult, humdrum life....and head to California.

Roy confesses to Bo..."I have stuff inside of me". That stuff is Hate and Evil. Roy wastes no time in starting his crime spree, while Bo..watches but quickly gives into the evil joyride and partakes in his own dastardly deeds. From smashing beer bottles over old ladies heads, to killing a Gay man, even stalking and murdering a girl and her boyfriend...these guys go off the deep end. I am telling you, this movie advances one crime after another..very easily. The soul searching that Sheen expresses emotional and through facial expressions are tremendous. Plus, Caulfield is Awesome in this movie...I might even watch Grease 2 now, after this performance (ok, probably not).

With the FBI and LAPD hot on their tail, Bo and Roy have no where to run. Plus, a young Shooter MaGavin (Christopher McDonald) plays the role of the sympathetic, trying to understand detective that doesn't understand the evil. He does a good job here and they portray both sides of the Police, the rugged/gritty side, plus the guys who feel for the victims.

In Closing.....

Treat my VHS better or DIE!!

I know, this review is full of ramblings, misguided points and unfunny , unwitty drivel...I can't help it! I had this movie on VHS during my Senior year of High School (1988). I wore this video out!! I watched this so many times...easily a movie that helped shape me...kidding. I think it opened a door into horror for me, that I had never seen before. It's not a slasher film that I loved in the 80's, this was before I understood the greatness of a Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, I was only exposed to greats like Dawn of the Dead..like, Halloween...this was a fresh burst of hatred and murder! You know what would make me kill someone? See that video <---- on the left side? If someone treated my VHS like that. I would kill them too!!

This is currently streaming on Netflix, it's a MUST see...I know, you will enjoy it too..you have too...it's Christmas!! I need to re-buy this VHS..just to have it, plus Buy the Dvd...you hear me gift buyers? I NEED this! Anyways...Happy Shopping.



The New Kids - It's NOT just Friday for Sean!

The New Kids

(It's NOT just Friday for Sean)

Most people instantly think of Friday the 13th when you mention Sean S. Cunningham, BUT he is just so much more than that. I have been on a bit of Cunningham kick as of late recently watching some of his other 80's efforts.

Now, growing up as a product of the 80's, witnessing films like Porky's, Hardbodies and My Tutor take over the late night airwaves. One of Cunningham's films, "Spring Break" was always one of my favorites. Sure, it won't win any awards but dammit, as for a skin, summer, fun flick...I actually like it. I will look at Spring Break another time, cause for me, a film like that requires it's own review...haha...I know, "Come on Dimension!!"

This morning, waking up early, flicking through Crackle (if you don't visit Crackle.com, you should..it's FREE and has BOTH of these films on it plus a HUGE Godzilla selection) I decided to watch "The New Kids" that was another Sean S. Cunningham outing in 1984/85.

The New Kids is not just another run of the mill...new kids come to town, then get bullied..followed by revenge flick...ok, it kind of is BUT..let's first look at the cast. James Spader, whom has been thrust back into the spotlight by guest starring as Robert California on The Office. Plus, Lori Loughlin, yes..pre-Full House with her amazing feathered hair...it is really sick, plus Lori was in one of my favorite films ever - RAD! John Philbin, who many know from Return of the Living Dead (Amazing) but was also "Turtle" in another one of my favorites..North Shore. Tom Atkins is briefly in this one..but still gives it some street cred for me.

The story, cut and dry...brother and sister are Army brats, their parents die, they move to Florida, soon to be opening "Fun Land" amusement park, where they get bullied. Things get out of control, a bloodbath ensues. James Spader plays the bully, Eddie Dutra, who is a scumbag, not on the scale of Matt Dillion as Moody from My Bodyguard, but still a scumbag and apparently an Albino (weird). Philbin plays one of his sidekicks and does a great job. Lori Loughlin does her best to keep her hair looking good....something about her, it oozes sexy (....ok, sorry). The film is a bit better than most, but still not a must see. I recommend this based on it's free to watch.

The standout features - You can tell Cunningham was coming into his own with this one. His use of subtle music was great. His lighting and camera angles were used great to build some drama or even showing typical. life. (oh yeah...I notice these things..haha). A lot of quick cuts to hide the lack of special effects on some of the kill scenes. he does use a few uneasy spots with some animal killings...never easy to watch. I was pleasantly surprised to rewatch this one and enjoy it. It's a bit gritty....it has a few lows but worth checking out. Judging by the poster art, it's possible to be fooled by thinking it would be more brutal than it is.

My overall rating - This is a rental. If you watch it and like it, then buy it. I don't know how often, even though it's currently free to watch, I will revist it.

Watch it Here - http://www.youtube.com/movie?v=SFAtDIT2L94&feature=mv_sr

Rob Dimension meets the Master of Horror

Rob Dimension meets The Master of Horror

by: Rob Dimension

MonsterMania 20 has come and gone, leaving the usually peaceful Hunt Valley, MD in ruins...well, not exactly. The Horror Convention hosted some of the greatest Horror Icons and Movie stars with names like John Carpenter, Anthony Michael Hall, Norman Reedus, Jeffrey Combs and many more. The crowd was the best yet for the NJ based convention..plus, it was a great time had by all who attended.



Hack and Danny Pickle



The Dimension Review crew, consisting of Rob and Kim Dimension, Hack the clerk and the lovable, internet movie reviewer, Danny Pickle packed up the family Dimension-mobile and headed South to kick off the Friday festivities. 

I was scheduled for Saturday to host the Q&A panels, I was excited as I was penciled in for The Monster Squad reunion, The Walking Dead reunion, Joe Turkel, The ReAnimator reunion and the Hellraiser reunion...unfortunately I wasn't listed under the John Carpenter Q&A nor the Halloween one. Now, understand, John Carpenter is really THE man in my books, he created so many incredible visions and showed me what true horror was (see my Growing Up Myers article) so, I was honored to be a part of the con and still be able to be around the guests and have fun. Plus, it was my Birthday weekend, what better way to celebrate??

Hack gets frisky with Katherine

Friday night, at the Convention is always a good time. I always stress to people to grab the VIP passes, the VIP party is so much fun. Hanging out with the guests, mingling with other attendees plus seeing all of our "con family" is always great. Kim and I had such a blast, plus seeing our PA/NJ Horror Club members, it's was great. They had a Michael Myers cake, plus, if you were lucky...you could see a Michael Myers moonwalk across the dance floor (Brad Loree is always a crowd pleaser). Dave Hagan really goes above and beyond with these conventions and delivers what he promises.

I just love Saturday's except Saturday mornings after a long MonsterMania party..haha...Kim and I made our way down to the vendors room and promoted the Monster Channel, plus sold some Fear Werx merchandise. I am always amazed at the creative costumes, the vendors that go above and beyond with merchandise and service...it's such a great atmosphere. I was scheduled to start Q&A's at 2pm so I was able to be the social butterfly, plus get over to the Fright-Rags table to see Kristy Jett and her posse. Did I mention, if you visit http://www.fright-rags.com/ and enter DIMENSION10, you get 10% off? Sorry, back to the recap...Kim had her hands full with Hack looking for boob grabs and Danny Pickle asking people for bus tokens, but she was having fun.

Danny's #1 Fan

I went and proceeeded to speak with Dave before the Q&A's started and said "if there is anyway I can help with the John Carpenter Q&A, please, let me know." Dave stated that he would be doing the last two panels, as he should, honestly, they are referred to as "The Main Events", plus he really does a great job. As the panels begin, I get into my groove and have a blast. I was looking forward to the 1 on 1 Q&A with Norman Reedus, who is just an awesome interview. Plus, I was such a fan of the Monster Squad film, meeting Ashley Bank and Andre Gower was a highlight. Barbara Crampton from The ReAnimator series was so lovely in person and super nice..just a great afternoon.

Finally, 7pm rolls around and Dave stops in and says "I'm going to be taking over the Hellraiser Q&A, go get something to eat....so you can get back to host the John Carpenter Q&A....Happy Birthday". I almost shit my pants (sorry to be blunt, but come on...it's the Master of Horror). So, Kim and I hurry up, grab some grub and get back....now, the part I'm leaving out is...on Friday night, I ran into Mr. Carpenter and stated "you are the reason I am here this weekend", sure he hears it all the time, he was humble and gracious, but I felt like a fanboy turd. I told Kim "I'm gonna hold it together tonight".



John Carpenter and Rob

I see Mr. Carpenter by the door, so....here we go. I introduce him and we are underway. The Q&A was a blast. 45 minutes of pure entertainment on his part. He was honest, gave people advice and spoke from the heart. It was so awesome (yes..I'm smiling as I write this..haha). It was a memory I will cherish forever, I thank Dave, from the bottom of my heart...sincerly. You can watch the entire Q&A below. Next week, The Dimension Review Crew returns, reviewing "The Super". Til next time....visit http://www.robdimension.com/ for more!!

Video Blog for the week of August 15th, 2011 - Looking at Shot on Video Horror

Rob Dimension's latest Video Blog

August 15th, 2011

Looking at Horror Films, Shot on Video

This week, Rob Dimension is back expressing his love for the Shot on Video Horror films from the 80's. Films like Video Violence 1 & 2, Cannibal Campout and even the 1982 film that was given an official Theatrical release "BoardingHouse".

This time around, Rob enlists his Wife Kim, who is not so amused nor a very big fan of Rob's passion. Things go downhill quickly once the fight escalates...this is a must see to believe. Plus, Dimension promotes his upcoming appearance (Aug. 19-21) at Monster-Mania Con in Cherry Hill, NJ and the August 25th PA/NJ Horror Club meeting.

If you want to check out some of these films, like Gary P. Cohen's Video Violence, make sure you head over to http://www.alternativecinema.com/

Video Blog for August 11th - Monster-Mania, Horror Club and more!!

Video Blog for August 11th - Dimension is back with his side-kick Hack, the clerk and they discuss The upcoming Monster-Mania Convention, August 19th-21st in Cherry Hill, NJ (http://www.monstermania.net/)!! Plus they talk about the upcoming PA/NJ Horror Club taking place on Thursday August 25th at 7pm. Location - Capes and Cowls and Bensalem, PA...we are screening "ToeTag Pictures - Sella Turcica" plus discuss the age old debate - Remakes vs. Originals!!

Plus..is the question finally answered...Who is Rob Dimension??

The Burning - movie review - This Pig is on FIRE!!!

Does it burn?

The Burning: (1981)
Director: Tony Maylam

Reviewed by : Pigamortis Wrex

One of Ole Pigamortis' favorites. Ahhhh the 80's, how i love thee.

Take a group of unheard of teen actors as a group of horny councelors/campers, one horribly deformed, angry caretaker and the make up Fx of the master, TOM SAVINI and what you end up with is one of the greats in the slasher genre. The Burning is without question the epitome of the slasher in the woods story. The story itself is based on a campfire tale told at camps throughout NY and NJ. I remember as a lil piglet hearing about Cropsey at camp. Maybe its nostalgia that makes me love this movie so much. It brings me back to a simpler time. Before CGI and before those overused "twists" that everyone seems to be so fond of at the end of movies these days. This movie is pure and simple, killer + victims = one helluva movie.

The story is back in the day of Camp Blackfoot, some smug lil camper bastards decided to play a joke on the "creepy caretaker" Cropsey... As with all tales,things go horribly awry and poor Cropsey is burned horribly and hospitalized. He was released after skin grafts didn't take and the horribly disfigured(and bitter) Cropsey is set upon an unknowing world. Where do you think he goes? Thats right kiddies, right back to the camp. TALK ABOUT DEDICATION! Well, I don't s'pose Pigamortis would be givin away any endings if I tell you its camp shenannigans and blood and boobs the rest of the movie. "The Hooker" scene is memorable for gorehounds as well as a bit that got this movie banned in more than one venue.

What is both amazing and amusing about this movie is the list of "Unknown" actors and actresses that appeared in this film who went on to do som pretty big things.

The likes of Jason "seinfeld" Alexander, Fisher "Short Circuit 1&2" Stevens, Holly "the Closer" Hunter, as well as the semi-known Leah "Bloodsport"Ayres, and Brian "Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol" Backer. We can't forget the others who we never heard from again who gave the movie that real camp feel. The acting was solid and they covered all the stereotypes, the hustler, the jock, the nerd, the pretty girl, the horny campers, they covered all bases here. They even broke some tradition (before it became tradition). The girl who DIDN'T wanna have sex got killed just as readily as the slut. They just don't make movies like this anymore.

I feel a big part of this was in part to the fact that there WAS no CGI, only physical FX and gallons of blood, done by the MASTER, Tom Savini. Savini actually turned down the job to do FX on Friday the 13th part 2 to work on "The Burning".

I remember watching some interviews with Savini where he talked about working on this film. The RAFT scene is incredible and well worth the wait. Your ole pal Pigamortis highly recommends you get your grubby lil hooves on this lil grisly morsel.

I HATED camp, but i LOVED this movie!