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It Lives in the Attic (2016)
So, Let's See The Attic.
It is always great fun to see what the good folks at Big Biting Pig Productions have unleashed upon the world in each of their annual horror productions. This year's release is their tenth movie to date. Written, directed and staring Steve Hudgins, it is titled "It Lives In The Attic" and perhaps the scariest thing about this film is that it ever lived in the mind of Steve Hudgins. You know what they say... better out than in. Oh, really?
The pre-release trailers for this film did little to reveal any more about what to expect than does the film's title; this signaled to me that the actual story line was being held close to the vest. Wishing not to take away from that spirit of mystery, a thorough review of this film is going to be little tough to do. I will say however, that it was fantastic to see Michael Coon in a leading role, all grown up and enjoying life as happy-go-lucky Andy. It was also good to see that Jessica Leonard was none the worse for wear; coming from her starring role in last years Big Biting Pig monster hit, to figure voluptuously into this tapestry of madness as Ellie, the girl next door. Steve Hudgins channeled his inner "Aqualung" in a masterful "perv"formance as the standoffish Barney.
I really don't think it is much of a stretch to say this production has crossed the line into a soft-porn classification but you may rest assured the horror is there in ample quantity to spoil the mood. Many familiar Big Biting Pig performers contribute admirably to the film and a good many of these seemed just a little too convincing when letting their freak flags fly.
Disturbing? Yes. Uncomfortable? Yes. Horrific? Oh, yeah! Honestly, I came away from this film with much the same feeling as after having first viewed Stanley Kubrick's classic "A Clockwork Orange." In fact, to my mind, I think of this as Big Biting Pig's "A Cuckoo-Clockwork Orange" (I mean this in a good way.) Steve Hudgins and the Big Biting Pig crew always seems to bring us smart, thinking-person's horror, so you will want to bring your brain; of course it will be of no great help with this one, but you will want to refer back to it as the credits begin to roll.
It Lives In The Attic? If only...
Out of My Mind (2016)
Dripping with Creativity
A brand new vehicle has been added to the Carriage House Productions stable of creative independent cinema (in association with Koldwind Productions.) Director Cindy Maples gets her creative juices flowing to the point of "dripping" in this, her latest film project.
"Out of my Mind" is a mysterious little thriller based on the story "Drip Drip" written by John Cosper. The screenplay/adaptation was a collaboration between Cindy Maples and Neil Kellen and found it's way into my consciousness through the predictably masterful camera work of Joe Atkinson. Credit Al Ponton and Lewis Chaney with expertly lighting this artistic offering. Successfully edited by Neil Kellen, this fifteen minute short packs all the entertainment value of any film two times thrice its run-time.
Hearkening to the film noir genre, this pseudo-narrative added color and complexity and presented a film that was as much horror as mystery. "Out of my Mind" was exactly how I felt as I tried to predict the outcomes of the actions in view. Once I surrendered to the fact this film was not playing back some tired, old formulaic devices but was instead telling me a story in a most unique way, I was rewarded with a tasty, tricky tale.
Rusty James is atop his game in his portrayal of best-selling mystery author "Carter"; haunted by rejection and a desire to redirect those negative emotions into something better suited to pay the bar tab. Mina Fedora brings her assets to bear in a mighty performance as the Woman in Blue. Though her eyes plead for rescue, Carter is limited in his available options to relieve her misery.
I find this to be a deep deep drama that develops fully in the mind only upon reflection. It must be a great feeling for everyone involved to know their efforts have resulted in such an outstanding film. Keep 'em coming Cindy!
Life Stinks? (2012)
Easily The Best Thing To Come Out Of Kitty-Litter
Okay, I will admit it - I fell prey to a billboard suggesting that I visit a particular website. In fact the billboard said little more than "nomorepu.com". I found it somewhat ironic (if not planned) that it was situated along the interstate near the landfill on the south side of town - it has been known to get quite stinky in the area at times.
I had no idea what the campaign was about but discovered after visiting the website that it was regarding "Tidy Cat" brand kitty litter. They had put together a clever website featuring the theme "Life Stinks? We Can Help." This particular advertising campaign featured a series of video shorts which were actually quite humorous and at the end of each they'd play a short outtake/blooper type scene from the shoot.
This hysterical mini-series stars Rachael Harris as hapless Abigail and is easily one of the best promotions ever undertaken in the "purr"suit of selling kitty liter. A creation of "Kids at Play Media" and produced in association with AFG, Principato Young Entertainment, and Electus.
While it is hard to believe all this misfortune - exhibited throughout the series - could actually befall a single individual, the actual events are completely relate-able to anyone on the receiving end of this mini collection of masterpiece videos. It is said that great comedy is built upon the truth; we then have Abigail to thank for keeping it real.
It is tough to pick a favorite from among these 10 episodes but I really must point you to the brilliant pairing of Rachel Harris with Brian Huskey in the episode titled "The Lobby." Some of the best comedy to ever grace the small screen. The series is still available for viewing on the "Kids At Play Media" website and represents one of those veins of pure gold tucked away in one of the cooler out-of-the-way corners of the inter-webs. Watch them all!
Bethlehem (2015)
Oh, Bethlehem!
I'm sure we all have memories of when the "black sheep" of the family took our Holiday celebration off-course, giving us one more reason to continue to look upon them in a less than ideal light. Now imagine a family where every single member is eminently qualified for the "black sheep of the family" designation. If you can do that, then you can begin to imagine Christmas with the Earlys.
Bethlehem (the title derived from the fact that this "dramedy" takes place in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania) brings together several elements - any one of which would point to a dysfunctional family - in what you might think would seem like piling-on for comedic effect but in practice paints the situation as sad and reminds us that behind every house decked-out with Christmas decorations is a story of a family struggling to keep it together in a world more conducive to its falling apart. A cautionary tale of the evils of addiction and poor choices and the enduring patience and strength of the matriarch who - to spite the many shortcomings of this brood of bad-eggs - is hell-bent on hosting this family get together regardless of the inevitable consequences.
There is only one thing that could possibly bring this dysfunctional family together this year and that has to be love. Not the "heart on your sleeve", "god bless us every one", sappy, happy love but that deep, deep, down in your gut, unconditional "family" love that you can never escape no matter how hard you try.
Michael Malone weaves a grungy tapestry of hurt and hormones in the story of this family gone very very wrong. Those of us familiar with the wit and wisdom and the irreverent comedic stylings of Michael Malone have been eagerly anticipating the release of Bethlehem. This is certainly one of the more talked about independent films of the year and with this cast of characters is it any wonder? In addition to writing (along with Joshua Hull) and directing, Michael Malone plays eldest son Michael Early who earns the crown of "most level headed," an honor which is often debatable chiefly due to his penchant for getting stoned.
"Homemaker" and Mother, Carolyn Early is portrayed marvelously by Cindy Maples in a role that stretches from doting, motherly heart-to-hearts to sternly shouted expletives as her character overtly struggles with how little control she actually has over her family beyond extending the invitations to this hopeful event.
The baby of the family is in his late 20s, still living at home and - by all indications, most likely - not still breastfeeding. Bobby Early is played by Mike Dobrzelecki who tries his very best to steal the show by delivering carefully measured aspects of Elvis, Meatloaf, Baby Huey and just enough Karate Kid to win favor with his overtly absent, mistress toting, father Jack (played admirably by Raymond Kester.) Melissa Revels delivers a delightful portrayal of middle-child Bridgett who could almost qualify as normal, but rest assured this is only what passes for normal in a family where "smoke-screen" seems to be the order of the day.
Uncle Raymond (endearingly characterized by Rich Ragains) lets his flaming love light shine and shows that he takes seriously his obligation to the family that dearly loves him in spite of his taste in sweaters.
JoAnn King White brings the character of Grandma to life as one who happily exists in her own little world and playfully invites all around her to join in the simpler pleasures reserved for those teetering on the verge of dementia. Grandma may well be the only guest in attendance truly happy to be there.
Of course this Christmas gathering would not be complete without their recently released, teardrop-tattooed, ex-con cousin Bryan (a role nailed by actor Derik Zooashkiyani) and his female companion.
The film does a masterful job of introducing the viewer to each member of this gathering, making us feel welcome among the madness. Once we begin to realize the volatile nature of this mixture of personalities the true magic of Christmas rears its ugly head. Just as you can mend a fraying rope by singeing its ends, so too can a family bond together at Christmas time.
This film is humorous without resorting to high-voltage lighting displays or ridiculously lubricated snow sleds. It delivers a profound message of love and family togetherness without resorting to angels getting wings or miracles 4 blocks north of 30th Street. Perhaps the most notable quality of Bethlehem is how relatable this messed up family is likely to be to everyone fortunate enough to watch this film. Destined to become a Christmas classic; one you should only watch with your children after they leave home or reach the age of 18 (whichever comes first.) {Officially Rated R13 Offensive Language and Sexual Content}
Expertly lensed by David M. Brewer this feature packs amazing, big-time production value; a credit to all involved. Check out the complete list of cast and crew on IMDb and help spread the word about what is surely the unlikeliest connection ever between Bethlehem and Christmas.
Random (2015)
A Night (and a Film) to Remember
"Random" represents indie sensation Cindy Maple's directorial debut. The film was written by Cindy and wisely places her in a starring role beside her real life hubby Rusty James.
Graphically powerful and erotically romantic, this touching film offers the viewer a delightfully voyeuristic glimpse into this pivotal night of life and love for the unquestionably happy couple. Cindy Maples brings to the screen a side of herself that this reviewer will not soon forget while Mina Fedora's original score sets the mood and caries us solidly through to the final fade.
A truly impressive seven minute short that showcases the talents of all involved in a polished work that will no doubt serve as first-rate resume enhancements for the creative, technical, cinematic and production personnel. Carriage House Productions and Cindy Maples prove once again that they are in it to win it.
Ezekiel's Landing (2015)
pinnacle of home-brew sci-fi
Ezekiel's Landing represents Writer/Director James Treakle's foray into the realm of feature length films. Teaming with executive producer Kate Chaplin and cinematographer Robert "Bobby" Dalley, what they deliver to the Sci-Fi community is a work of art that is simply "out of this world!" Ezekiel's Landing is a Sci-Fi, Horror, Action, Thriller that pits UFO skeptics against the true believers, Earthlings versus Aliens and perceptions and memories against truth and reality.
Valiant Dead LLC and Karmic Courage Productions have brought to the Digital Big Screen an epic production that should bring exceeding pride to all those involved. In the genre of indie science fiction films, this one brings together a brilliant cast of characters dedicated to their roles and serious about their craft.
Naphatia St Pierre starring as Emma Wright (renowned author of an abduction memoir) gives a brilliant performance. Naphatia should be credited with elevating this creation from an amateur production to hover among those serious professional productions with genuine star-power - if she keeps bringing to the set what she has brought to Ezekiel's Landing then there can be no doubt that her's is a career to follow.
Ransom Pugh is certainly not to be discounted in his portrayal of Joel Hooper (a wink-and-a-nod to Spielberg,) a protagonist that is a force to be reckoned with. Joel is a professional skeptic who must confront repressed memories when he learns his childhood friends are forming a UFO cult and will not be denied; much bruising, blood and bare-chestedness ensue.
Abigail White is "packing heat" (in more ways than one) as UFO huntress and Emma's greatest fan, Kass Burroughs. Together Emma and Kass must go high-tech Cagney and Lacy on the bad guys with only the slightest expectation that they have what it takes.
Speaking of "having what it takes" - Kristine Renee Farley dominates the horror as Queen of the Cult, Natasha King. The power she lords over her minions is nothing compared to her power to cast a spell over the viewer of this film - evil in a package like this has got to be named Natasha - beware of this one.
The supporting cast are - each and every one - stars in their own right; Jeff Angel as hate-able Sheriff Ed Lucas and Edward Haynes Jr. as lovable Mike Berg certainly made their presence known in their show stealing portrayals; in fact, every actor on screen in Ezekiel s Landing has earned our attention and has contributed admirably to this epic indie masterpiece.
The superb technical aspects are not to be overlooked. Bobby Dally's creative genius is all over this production. Skill in low-light filming is a hallmark of this cameraman. Framing and angles that obliterated the confinement of the screen were successful in placing the audience squarely in the middle of the story in a way that give the edge of one's seat a good work-out. Superb editing skills are also on display amidst a killer score that often emotes what we're there for.
Sincere congratulations to James Treakle for his persistence in taking a geeked-out nerdy vision of the ultimate home-brew sci-fi epic motion picture and delivering it to the world in such a splendid project. A job well done.
A Wedding Like That (2015)
A Movie Like This...
There is little secret regarding the subject of this film. I mean, when the title screen displays dual female symbols beneath the words "A Wedding Like That" you know going in that you are about to be a guest at a same-sex wedding.
I am learning my lesson about overly investigating a film before watching it; I am convinced that many reviewers and synopsis writers seek only to spoil a film in an effort to prove they actually saw it. I truly came to this viewing with no preconceived notions. So let me just tell you I did indeed watch it and I can honestly say my outlook on life is the better for it.
What I fully expected to be a glorification of the homosexual lifestyle turned out to be a heartwarming tale of family love and fatherly obliviousness. As a father myself I was easily drawn to the situational drama and found myself relating on many levels to the fathers of both brides in ways that felt a bit too awkward for comfort. I could however, take comfort in the underlying themes of love and support among caring family and close friends.
What I did not expect was the comedy... I confess that I found myself laughing quite a bit. And not a nervous sort of laughter but a genuine laughter born of witty writing and crafty timing. The entire script was well written in fact. These folks did in forty-two minutes what Hollywood would feel compelled to keep us for ninety minutes only to deliver half the entertainment.
Mark Dessauer and Cindy Maples are a match made in heaven in their portrayal of Sam and Tami Kessler; loving parents ready to face anything or anybody who stands in the way of their family ideal. Tod Reynolds and Gracie Strange are a force to be reckoned with in the roles of "proper" parents Oliver and Debra Dixon who - as it happens - find themselves as the Father and Mother of the Bride too. Laura Kessler and Joan Dixon (enchantingly portrayed by Megan Hunt and Roni Jonah) are the soon to be wed couple. Could it be happening too soon? or perhaps not soon enough? What could have very easily gone politically active or morally preachy instead stays out of our faces and ultimately plants a tear in the eye of those with a soft spot for love and hope in the triumph of family togetherness. A brilliant work of art in all aspects of production. With Neil Kellen at the camera you would expect a feast for the eyes and that it is. Directors, Neil Kellen and Lewis D. Chaney should start clearing out a spot on the trophy shelf because this has "award-winning" written all over it.
Would I recommend this film? I would go one step farther and say don't you dare miss it. A great achievement by everyone involved.
The Last Day (2014)
A gripping pre-apocalyptic sci-fi drama.
I just returned from the Indiana Short Film Festival where it was my pleasure to view a screening of Joe Atkinson's "The Last Day" along with several other well crafted works of art. In my estimation "The Last Day" was certainly a crowd favorite judging by the relative whir of comments and buzz from the audience following closing credits for the film.
Wishing now that I had been led into the theater with no idea about the 22 minute film I had come to experience; since in many ways the published synopses served to spoil this work and rob it of much of its innate impact. If you have yet to see "The Last Day" and you have the chance now to avoid reading any synopsis I would sincerely advise you to do so. In reviewing this project I intend to inflict no further harm in this regard but will add that even if you have read the screenplay and reviewed the storyboard you really must treat yourself to the finished production.
It is not surprising to learn that The MayDay Film Festival 2014 rightly bestowed "The Last Day" their "Best Cinematography" award. The camera work was splendid and edited to perfection. The sound was expertly assembled and exhibited only the slightest hints as to the extremely tight window of opportunity in which this film was shot. I would like to offer that gold stars be issued to both David Ross and Cindy Maples for their gripping portrayals as father and daughter, forced by The Fates into a very difficult situation. The supporting cast and extras did their jobs in a way that served to elevate the entire project to a level that surely brings much pride to Author/Producer/Director Joe Atkinson and Actor/Producer Cindy Maples.
If I were tasked with writing a synopsis for "The Last Day" it might go something like this: A 70th birthday should be cause for celebration, but Frank Muncey would be just as happy to spend his on a deck chair next to his daughter overlooking the coast of Atlanta. These times, they are a changin'. What would you be willing to do to survive?
Sgt. Swell of the Mounties (1972)
What The...? Oh, Swell!
Sergeant Swell of the Mounties is a short film written and directed by Len Janson and Chuck Menville, with Menville starring in the title role.
Chuck Menville as Sgt. Swell with Kathy Puerta as Emmy Lou The film is said to be a spoof of the '50s television series Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It relies heavily on the use of the animation technique known as pixilation (using human actors as stop-motion puppets.) It also relies on silliness and corn ball humor, often venturing into stereotypical humor in search of a laugh (that it very often finds.) This independent film was introduced at the Ann Arbor Film Festival in March of 1972.
I have actually owned this film in Super-8 format (w/mag-stripe sound!) since the mid 1980's. After viewing it so often on the silver screen it is a little disorienting to see it on a small embedded video screen, but it's not like that is the only disorienting thing about this film. Do you have 16 minutes to spare in the quest for a good time? Mount Up! and give this little classic a try.
The Caretakers (2014)
A Vampire Legend is Born
Steve Hudgins has re-imagined the Classic Vampire movie genre in his groundbreaking tale "The Caretakers." This movie takes you into the world of those who know Vampires best: the people whose job it is to care for them. This is a beautifully engineered story of Vampire culture far removed from the usual "The Young and the Restless (with fangs.)" The Caretakers shatters many myths and commonly held beliefs about Vampires and how they operate with such authority that it will have you questioning the validity of every Vampire story to which you have ever been subjected.
Bill Johnson and Joe Estevez certainly lend an air of gravitas to this picture but Nick Faust and Michael Coon deliver world class performances each in their own right. Brittney Saylor brings the horror as the likable monster. April LaRae is compelling as the original-line Vampire. Jessica Dockery, Lucy Turner, PJ Woodside, Steve Hudgins and all the rest of the cast deliver their believable characters with flawless portrayals; which is fast becoming a hallmark of Big Biting Pig Productions fare.
As fans of this companies movies might expect, this one offers plot twists and turns and has no trouble holding your attention to the bitter end. If Big Biting Pig Productions movies keep getting better with each release then you have to say that this is their best yet.
Spirit Stalkers (2012)
There has to be a perfectly logical explanation...
Spirit Stalkers is an intelligent group of investigators who work together to explain away claims of the paranormal. As Rueben (the leader of this group) explains, "You don't prove the existence of a ghost by actually going out and finding one... you prove the existence by ruling out every other logical explanation there is..." The problem is that these folks are so good at their jobs that never once have they ever encountered anything that can be classified as a spirit from "the other side." This would not be such an issue if it wasn't for the fact that they perform their duties in front of the camera, for the entertainment of the viewers that tune-in to their reality television show "Spirit Stalkers." Their ratings are on the line week after week.
Gloria Talman has recently become the owner of a large, older home and has a dream of perhaps turning it into a bed and breakfast. Maybe she should have checked with the spirits haunting the estate before signing on the dotted line. Maybe it is just the house settling. Perhaps there is just a draft. Whatever is going on, it's enough to drive anyone to the brink of calling in "The Ghost Busters." Of course Ghost Busters is just a movie but Spirit Stalkers are real, plus they have a proved track record.
Gloria's home may be just what this team has been hoping for. The disturbances in this house may defy any logical explanation. If so, then what we are left with is a Spirit Stalkers dream come true. Some dreams are better left to the sleeping.
Spirit Stalkers is a Big Biting Pig Productions masterpiece. Technically superior to any BBP Production that has come before. Which is saying something, since all of their films are setting the standard for the independent horror/thriller genre. Once again they raise the bar and put you on the edge of your seat. So if that is where you like to be I say go ahead and take a seat in front of Spirit Stalkers as they try to explain this one away.
Mental Space (2012)
Hey, what are you doing? Will you watch Amber?...
This is a fun, home-brew series that I happily discovered in relation to my new-found fascination with Big Biting Pig Productions. While researching the extremely talented Jessica Dockery, I found she had ties to EveryExit Productions and this series.
Other fans of the Big Biting Pig will be pleased to see many familiar faces among the cast of Mental Spaces. Besides Jessica and Aaron, be sure to look for PJ Woodside, Steve Hudgins, Felicia Stewart and Cindy Maples among others.
Mental Spaces is an irreverent look into the life of Brother/Sister roommates. Alan Steel (the brother played by Aaron Frasier) is trying to cope with caring for his sister Amber (played by Jessica Dockery) with her many mental infirmities. In order to have some sort of social life outside of this "nut house" Aaron must often enlist the help of close friends David and Edwin to keep an eye on Amber. In spite of the fact that Amber is crazy (like a fox) and is just a bit more than this volunteer duo can safely handle they seem to enjoy the unpredictable adventures that can only come from a mind out of kilter. As long as she takes her med's she is as pleasant and charming as anyone you would ever hope to meet. If she should miss taking the prescribed medication (for whatever reason) then... look out!
Technically the video is often a bit on the rough side giving it an endearing "home movie" quality. You will soon forget exposure foibles and the occasional continuity breaks because the story is so compelling and the performances are so brilliant. What could have very easily gone "over the top" remains firmly grounded due to the obvious skill and creativity of its writers.
I would highly recommend this series to anyone on the lookout for some fresh "dramedy" from the fringes of internet TV.
The Creepy Doll (2011)
A girl's best friend is her doll.
After several years of being separated from her dolls Kate finally has the chance to display them once again in her new home. As the Dolls arrive from storage they are unboxed and soon resume their dominance in the life of their owner. Is this an obsession or merely survival instincts? Is it a case of keep your family close and your dolls closer? The in-laws seem to have reservations about Kate's plan to adorn the nursery of the soon to arrive baby with this extensive collection. If they only knew the protection they afforded perhaps they would have a different opinion. Kate has a very special doll that her Grandma gave her known as her "protector." This is one creepy doll. But, when you've owned a doll since the day you were born you probably have no notion of the creep factor.
Speaking of creep factor, this film has a heaping helping. Not sure which is creepier the Dolls, the family, the long time friends of the family or the musical score? But it's all good... Kristine Renee Farley was perfectly cast in the role of Kate while Justin Michael Veazey was equal to the the task of sudden husband and expectant father. Add Jessica Cook (the old flame), Steve Hudgins (the concerned cousin), Cindy Maples and Randy Hardesty (as the all too close in-laws - that don't like to pry) and you have the makings of some Big Biting Pig Greatness! The entire cast performed brilliantly in this technically superior production. A creatively creepy work of art. A story that keeps on going long after the final credits roll - that's how you know PJ Woodside made it.
I recommend that you see this (probably with the lights on.)
Hell Is Full (2010)
Zombie Horror with Brains!
Hell is Full is not your typical Zombie picture. Typical Zombie movies have been done to death. Big Biting Pig Productions breaths fresh life into the genre by offering their own brand of Zombie Horror - Horror with Brains!
In the close-knit town of Madisonville lives are intertwined and secrets are hard to keep. When a Zombie scourge enters their world, the petty day-to-day discomforts would seem like nirvana by comparison. Hell is Full presents a realistic look at how society is ripe for the picking when the undead are among us with their insatiable appetite for blood and guts.
Okay, it was a zombie movie. It was gross. It was scary. It was the undead "having it their way" with the living. But this story is told in a way that makes you realize that zombies are people too. Hell is Full also begs the question "at what point does Madisonville change its name to Zombieville?"
Any Zombie fan will want to see this one!
Maniac on the Loose (2008)
Better check your doors Madisonville!
I had a good time watching Maniac on the Loose. If you have ever said that you like horror movies I am sure you will enjoy this too!
It is a brilliant tale about an escaped mental patient and why that can be a such bad thing. Steve Hudgins has woven a tale that should have everyone calling their local mental institutions to verify that ALL the doors are locked. It has been said that too much knowledge is a dangerous thing and Steve skillfully doles out this plot in a manner that perhaps will make you feel just a little too safe. But it's for your own good. You like surprises don't you? Do you like think you know the score? When a maniac is on the loose it is best just to stay at home, right? Really? In this case the best place to be is anywhere but Madisonville.
In some ways this is a cautionary tale on the pitfalls of on-line romance. In other ways it is a cautionary tale on the pitfalls of getting up and going to work. In ALL ways this is an excellent creation by the good folks at Big Biting Pig Productions. The camera work is admirable. The sound is A-O-K. The musical score is awesomely effective. The editing is Super-Good. The acting is just about to the top notch.
It has Humor cards. It has Suspense and Mystery Cards. It has Horror and Creepy cards. Are you in? The dealing has begun but beware, Steve has masterfully stacked this deck!
I recommend this for those who like good clever fiction with just enough terror to keep you glued to the screen.
Widow (2009)
Sometimes dreams can tell you...
The loss of a loved one is never easy. The loss of a spouse can be especially hard. Widow is a chilling tale of one woman's struggle to come to terms with her husbands "accidental" death. This however, is no easy chore what with visions of her husband haunting her dreams and all. Vivian's late husband is trying to tell her something but will she be able to piece together the puzzling dreams to put an end to her grief?
The bonds of a loving sister can help at a time like this. But when the relationship is strained it can be as difficult to refuse her assistance as it is to accept her sage advice. Like it or not sissy is only here to help her move on with her life.
In true Big Biting Pig fashion the tale is told in a way that grabs your attention and will not let go until it is good and ready. Widow is a bit of a head-scratcher as this puzzle is laid on the table, but as the pieces start to fall into place the mystery - oddly enough - just seems to grow.
Cindy Maples gives a gripping performance as the grief stricken Widow. Kim Welsh brings her "A" game as supportive sissy. Steve Hudgins performs brilliantly as the ever-ready handy man. Add to these, the talented supportive cast and a musical soundtrack with legs of its own and you have all the makings of a psychological thrill ride that would say "PJ Woodside did this" even without those awesome credits.
Oh yeah, I recommend it!
GoatSucker (2009)
Lace up your hiking boots...
What in the world would bring these people together on a hiking tour into the very woods known to be inhabited by a Goat Sucker? A quest for adventure? Some fresh air and exercise? Hoping to see a Goat Sucker? Screw loose? They all have their reasons...
Many of the same questions could be asked of this viewer. What made me think it would be a good idea to watch a film about such questionable judgment? The fact that it is a Big Biting Pig Production of course. As usual Steve Hudgins delivers another "Sucker" punch to those who think they know how the story is going to play out.
Shot for the very most part in the woods of Kentucky, I was impressed with the expert camera handling and "extra-effort" angles. The sound was flawless in my observation, no easy task in a location picture I imagine. A truly professional film that belies its' indie origins. The cast of characters steps-up to deliver their all-star talent lending complete believability to the project.
It offers parallel plots that twist and turn like some sort of racing roller coaster ride and nobody has been given a seat belt. My advice is "Hold on tight and enjoy the ride," I sure did!
Lucid (2013)
lucid. wake up! (if you can)
Lucid is not your average horror flick. I found the story to be fresh, original and clever to boot! While there may be tried and true formulas for the making of horror movies, I was taken along for a thrilling ride not quite able to see where we might be going. Just as the main character was suffering from a desire to separate the waking consciousness from the equally realistic lucid dream state, I too found myself scrutinizing my "surroundings" for clues as to how much control I was likely to exercise in my ability to comprehend the situation.
Did I get lost in the plot? No, I followed along well enough... I knew where I was - just unclear as to the method of escape. Much as our heroine found herself in a disturbing situation by way of her own behavior in the dream state, it was those memories of PawPaw (played by Bill "Leatherface" Johnson) that had me squirming in my seat. This film envelops the viewer from the very beginning and I can honestly say it has not yet released its hold on me. That is exactly what I look for in an horror film. Gratuitous blood 'n' guts is kid-stuff - although, {insert spoiler here}!!
This was a masterful work of fiction that plied its magic in the style of Hitchcock. I highly recommend it - Nice one PJ!
95ers: Time Runners (2013)
A Sci-Fi Work Of Art
95ers: ECHOES has been referred to as being "as indie as indie gets." However, my impression is that this film is "big-time" good.
Being a huge fan of the Time Travel film genre I must say that 95ers:Echoes has earned its way into my top five all-time favorite sci-fi movies. This film has it all and delivers it in a well paced, believable tale of romance, suspense and intrigue that left this viewer with the sense that he had just experienced indie cinematic greatness of epic proportions.
Alesandra Durham gives a brilliant performance supported by a cast of characters that can hold their collective heads up high with pride in the knowledge of a job well done.
Thank you Tom Durham for your hard work, sacrifice and vision.