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Unmissable horror films and television coming to 2022

Scream (Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gilett) 

Release date: 14th January 

Kicking off this exciting year for horror is Scream. If there was any film that ignited a wave of excitement amongst movie-goers last year then it was the news of Ready or Not (2019) directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gilett bringing back Ghostface once again. The upcoming fifth instalment in the beloved franchise, created by horror icons Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson brings the series back in a new light, with Sidney Prescott, Dewey Riley, and Gale Weathers all returning to Woodsboro once again. Just like its predecessors, the plot details of the new Scream have been kept quietly under wraps, but the poster does give us a sordid tease at who the new villain is thanks to the witty tagline- “The Killer is on this Poster”… 

Don’t Worry Darling (Directed by Olivia Wilde)

Release date: 23rd September 

Olivia Wilde made quite the impression with her hilarious coming of age comedy Booksmart back in 2019, and now she is bound to ‘wow viewers yet again with her upcoming psychological film detailing the tale of a bored housewife in 1950s America as she unveils a dark secret, whilst her husband harbours a disturbing truth of his own. Starring in Don’t Worry Darling is Florence Pugh, Harry Styles, Chris Pine, Douglas Smith, and Gemma Chan. The teaser trailer has already got devoted Styles fans hysterical, especially when you take into consideration those rumours about the steamy scenes between him and Pugh (whose phenomenal performance in Midsommar [2019] will go down in history). 

You Won’t Be Alone (Directed by Goran Stolevski) 

Release date: 22nd January 

You Won’t Be Alone sets the scene of a young witch who lives abandoned and feral in the woods. The isolated mountain setting ensures her secrecy, but curiosity strikes when she accidentally kills a peasant in a nearby village. The witch then shapeshifts into her victim’s body to quench her thirst for a human experience. However, events turn sinister when she begins to take the form of other bodies, leading to a riveting path of human discovery. The Macedonian set film will premiere at the upcoming Sundance film festival later this month, with high hopes already blossoming amongst future viewers all in ode to the spectacular trailer released late last year. Across the film an experience is provided, with the powerful themes not being afraid to cross emotional boundaries as stunning visuals and intense performances unite to simultaneously conjure shock and allure.

Nope (Directed by Jordan Peele)

Release date: 22nd July 

Jordan Peele’s first film Get Out released in 2017 completely stole the limelight from the get go, it even did something that horror movies rarely get the opportunity to do, win an Academy Award. Soon after his debut, Peele released Us (2019), another first class film whose legacy will continue for years. It’s safe to say that audiences have been holding out for his next project. Luckily enough, we won’t have to wait long as Peele’s latest venture, mysteriously titled ‘Nope’ is set to be released this summer! Not a single ounce of information has been released about what the film entails besides the cast and the gripping poster. Leading the compelling lineup is KeKe Palmer, Daniel Kaluuya, Michael Wincott, Steven Yeun, and Barbie Ferreira. Although we do not know much, the aforementioned poster does make your thoughts run wild as to what Peele has got up his sleeves; could the carnival-esque setting pictured be hinting at a circus based setting? or could it just be throwing us off the scent? Only time will tell… 

Orphan: First Kill (Directed by William Brent Bell) 

Release date: TBC 

Isabelle Fuhrman gave one of the most haunting performances modern horror has witnessed in Jaume Collet-Serra’s 2009 smash-hit, Orphan. Over a decade later director William Brent Bell brings the terrifying ‘Esther’ back to the screen as we follow her origin story. This upcoming horror is designed to be a prequel to the events in the first film and how Esther’s maliciousness was molded. The plot is set to begin with her escaping from an Estonian asylum, and then taking on the identity of a family’s missing daughter, but Esther’s childlike impression is not fooling everybody. Orphan: First Kill utilised creative filmmaking, such as forced perspectives and body doubles to ensure that Fuhrman pulls off that same doe-eyed performance that she mastered all those years ago. Joining Fuhrman are Julia Stiles and Rossif Sutherland, who will play the unsuspecting family that Esther digs her claws into. 

Bed Rest (Directed by Lori Evans Taylor) 

Release date: 15th July 

Bed Rest is certainly a standout indie horror due to come out this year. The script is an original story, the cast is more than promising, and the plot is beyond intriguing. Bed Rest comes from writer and director Lori Evans Taylor, who has written the latest upcoming instalment of the Final Destination franchise. Bed Rest will follow Julie Rivers (Melissa Barrera), an expecting mother who moves into a new home with her husband to get a fresh start. Soon after she is ordered to bed rest, causing her to become frustrated through the monotonous routines of her now day-to-day life. However, boredom will be the least of her troubles as she begins to experience ghostly events within her home, leaving her to question her own sanity and safety. Amongst a year crowded with reboots, remakes, and revivals, Bed Rest will certainly be a rejuvenating injection for the genre. 

Hellraiser (Directed by David Bruckner) 

Release date: TBC

The Hellraiser franchise has long garnered massive amounts of praise ever since Clive Barker’s intense visions was adapted for screen in 1987, encouraging an embrace for darker horror with taboo themes. Continuing the ever expanding Hellraiser universe is David Bruckner’s reboot, which will closely adhere to the original source material from Barker, The Hellbound Heart (1986). The news of this installment has been floating around for years now, with constant back and forths and creative disagreements causing the project to fall through. However, with the likes of David Gordon Green’s Halloween (2018) blossoming in popularity and generating an interest in horror classics, Hellraiser finally got the green light. 

Horror reimaginings over the years have adapted and remolded their iconic villains, and now the infamous Pinhead, leader of the mighty Cenobites, will be played by the incredibly talented Jamie Clayton, the series first female Pinhead.

The Black Phone (Directed by Scott Derickson) 

Release date: 24th June 

Blumhouse Productions is set for another very successful year, particularly in ode to Scott Derrickson’s The Black Phone amassing a lot of buzz. The film is an adaptation of the 2004 short story from Joe Hill, that will take the viewer on a journey back in time to the 1970s where a string of abductions are plaguing a small suburban town in Colorado. Mason Thames will star as Finney Shaw, a young boy who gets kidnapped by a spiteful serial killer, resulting in him being trapped inside a completely soundproof basement. It seems that all hope of discovery is gone, but Finney discovers a disconnected phone that has the ability to feedback voices of the killer’s previous victims. Ethan Hawke makes his return back to horror through playing ‘The Grabber’, the sinister man responsible for the disappearances. As seen in the trailer, The Black Phone has something for everyone, whether it’s a creepy mask, haunted basements, a dash of psychological horror, or a vicious fight for survival. 

Bones & All (Directed by Luca Guadagnino) 

Release date: TBC 

Bones & All is one of the most promising films to be released later this year across every single genre. The film stars Timothèe Chalamet and Taylor Russell, accompanied by Luca Guadagnino as director. Bones & All is based on Camille DeAngelis’s novel of the same name. Throughout the book, copious themes surrounding loneliness and angst, all encased within a dramatic, romanticized frame are explored. Although these elements are already weighty subject matters, what Bones & All exposes above all is the relationship between cannibalism and self discovery, as we follow Maren (Russell) and Lee (Chalamet) whilst on a treacherous road trip across America where a craving for flesh lays bare more than they can handle. 

With Guadagnino behind the camera, the film is sure to join previous masterpieces exploring such hypersensitive material, such as Ravenous (1999) Trouble Every Day (2001), and Raw (2016). 

Halloween Ends (Directed by David Gordon Green) 

Release date: 14th October 

Halloween has not only sparked an interest for horror amongst younger audiences, but it has also generated a more than pleasant reception for die hard Michael Myers fans. The final instalment within this reboot trilogy is set to be released this October, meaning that it’s not long until we get to see the conclusion of this riveting battle between Haddonfield residents and ‘The Shape’. Direct plot details surrounding Halloween Ends have been kept extremely hushed, and considering how merciless Halloween Kills (2021) was, anything can happen next. What we do know is that in the film (unlike the previous two) the events will not take place on the same night, instead there will be a time leap of four years where issues surrounding the pandemic will be covered. Although this decision of focusing on incorporating a sense of grounded reality is beyond a risk, hopefully David Gordon Green will pull it off. 

Something in the Dirt (Directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead)

Release date: TBC 

Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead have collaborated many times before to create some truly amazing cinema, particularly Spring (2014) and The Endless (2017). Once again they are expected to deliver yet another visually impactful and emotionally rich film in their latest project Something in the Dirt. The ominously named film acquires the acting talents of Benson and Moorhead as they play the characters of neighbours John and Levi who witness supernatural occurrences in their apartment complex. Upon realising that their ghostly haunts could earn them some serious internet wealth and fame they begin to document the events, only to voyage down a much darker rabbit hole. The duo have proven in previous works that they have a natural talent for showcasing complex relationships with the self, all the while forgoing cliches and predictability. 

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (Directed by David Blue Garcia)

Release date: 18th February 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHzYCSZW6lY

Back in the early 1970s Tobe Hooper was an assistant film director at university doing documentary work on the side, hoping for a shot at cinematic success. Little did anyone know that he would become one of the biggest horror icons in filmic history all thanks to The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974). The franchise has spawned a further eight films with the latter being released in February this year. This take revolves around Melody (Sarah Yarkin), her sister Lila (Elsie Fisher), and their friends Ruth (Nell Hudson) and Dante (Jacob Latimore), as they travel to rural Texas to set up a new business venture. But, the harmony doesn’t last for long as they land in Sawyer’s territory, encountering Leatherface himself. Their only chance of survival comes from the return of Sally Hardesty (Olwen Fouéré), who’s been waiting for a chance at vengeance all along. David Blue Garcia serves as director, whilst Fede Álvarez and Rodo Sayagues wrote the original story. Texas Chainsaw Massacre will be a direct sequel to the original, discounting all of its predecessors. There have already been multiple attempts at resetting the series, yet not all tries have been well received, Texas Chainsaw 3D (2013) only holds a mere 19% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fingers crossed Garcia’s talents will ensure that this anticipated sequel will be a triumph. 

Fresh (Directed by Mimi Cave) 

Release date: 20th January 

Mimi Cave’s feature film debut titled Fresh delves into the tribulations that innately infest the dating scene for women in the modern age. Daisy Edgar-Jones will play Noa, a singleton tired of scrolling on dating apps. On a whim, she goes on a date with the shy charmer Steve (Sebastian Stan). From the first date, their chemistry is fiery, leading to Noa becoming smitten, seeing a potential partner to settle down with, but an impromptu weekend away with prince charming unveils his unusual “appetite’’.The coverage surrounding Fresh has been sparse, but if that electrifying synopsis is anything to go by, then we’re definitely in for a treat. 

All of Us Are Dead (Directed by Lee Jae-kyoo and Kim Nam-su)

Release date: 28th January 

All of Us Are Dead surrounds itself with one of the most famed movie monsters of all time- ZOMBIES! The undead (as gruesome as they are) always makes for great entertainment material, with old-time classics such as Night of the Living Dead (1968) to modern staples including Shaun of the Dead (2004) being considered as two of the best horror movies out there. To add to the ever expanding sub-genre is the highly anticipated South Korean TV series, All Of Us Are Dead which will follow a group of students trapped in their high school whilst a savage zombie apocalypse roars throughout society. The series is based upon the popular Naver webtoon titled Now at Our School created by Joo Dong-geun. 

Archive 81 (Directed by Rebecca Thomas) 

Release date: 14th January

Colliding a daring blend of truth and fiction is Archive 81, a convoluted series combining found footage, cult activity, cold cases, and demonic activity, The series is co-produced by the one and only James Wan, the force behind the Insidious franchise, the Conjuring Universe, and most recently the opinion dividing Malignant (2021). Archive 81 will take us on a menacing journey with Dan Turner (Mamoudou Athie), an archivist who is employed to restore a horde of damaged videotapes dating back to 1994. On the tapes is the work from documentarian Melody Pendras (Dina Shihabi), who went missing under suspicious circumstances 25 years ago after investigating a shady cult. Archive 81 is a semi-original piece, with the inspiration coming from a real-life, found footage podcast of the same name that explores the fictionalised mystery of cults and rituals. 

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

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Curiosity Corner News

FANGORIA Vol2 #14

Fangoria Vol2 #14 Scream Cover
Fangoria Vol2 #14 Scream Cover

It goes without saying that we’re huge fans of Fangoria here at Dead Northern. So here’s the low down on the January 2022 issue!

  • FANGORIA’s January cover features the new SCREAM! 
  • Our cover story is a conversation between Radio Silence (Tyler Gillett, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, and Chad Villella, the filmmaking team behind the new film), and franchise creator Kevin Williamson.
  • This issue will also look back at the entire history of the franchise (and just to earn that cheeky cover, we’ll include an article about the not-quite-real Stab film series).
  • This cover is going to SUBSCRIBERS ONLY. Our newsstand cover will be different! 
  • Folks must subscribe by December 19th to get the exclusive Scream cover. They can use the code STAB5 to get 25% off a new subscription.

Get your subscription to Fangoria here https://bit.ly/StabFango

More info about Fangoria Vol 2 #14

Other articles in this issue include a conversation between Scott Derrickson, C. Robert Cargill and Joe Hill on THE BLACK PHONE, a set visit from THE LAST THING MARY SAW, an interview with Lucky McKee on the 20th anniversary of MAY, a retrospective piece on the 100TH ANNIVERSARY of NOSFERATU, and a candid chat with the lovely and talented Devon Sawa (CHUCKY), covering his journey through the genre. Issue 14 also contains a round-up of the best deaths of the year, and the list of nominees for next year’s Chainsaw Awards. The issue also features new original art by Vanessa McKee and Spicy Donut (Devin Lawson). 

Again: this SCREAM/STAB 5 cover is a subscriber exclusive, which means you can only get the issue by subscribing to the mag for a year. Our newsstand cover will feature an entirely different image, as is our custom since issue 11. Considering our last subscriber cover (from only one month ago) is now selling on eBay for over $200, and considering SCREAM is the most eagerly anticipated franchise jump-start on the horror landscape, you might want to subscribe before December 19th to make sure you get this exclusive cover.

In case you missed it, you can get your subscription to Fangoria here https://bit.ly/StabFango

Categories
News

This week in horror: 15.08.21

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Host director Rob Savage unveils details about new film with Blumhouse Productions


Host was certainly the most talked about film of last year, with its soaring reputation going down in horror history. Rob Savage’s feature debut soon gained buzz amongst major production companies, particularly Blumhouse Productions. When news broke last year that Savage had set up a three film deal with Blumhouse everyone was more than excited to learn more about this upcoming hit, especially since he joins forces yet again with Host writer’s Gemma Hurley and Jed Shepherd!

Although the details have been kept very much underwraps, it has been revealed that the title of his second feature is Dashcam. Based on the sneak preview image, Dashcam is presumably conveyed as vehicle dashcam footage. The innovative filming technique is very similar to the desktop method used in Host, but this isn’t where the similarities stop as Dashcam is kept short and sweet with the length only totalling 77 minutes. 

Dashcam is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival this year. 

Head Count’s Elle Callahan brings us ‘Witch Hunt’’ 

Head Count was one of the most surprising horror’s to come out of 2018. The looming atmosphere coupled with impeccable performances, and tense thrills quickly gained buzz within the horror community. Now, the mind behind Head Count, Elle Callahan delivers another soon to be success ominously titled ‘Witch Hunt’. The film follows Claire (Gideon Adlon), and her family who help fleeing women across the border to seek asylum in Mexico.

However their operation meets a bitter halt when they are stopped by witch hunters. The reviews have definitely aired on the positive side with Callahan cementing a strong reputation as a young horror auteur. Audiences can now get a taste of the action as Witch Hunt will be released via video-on-demand on the 1st October, in perfect time for those Halloween movie marathons. 

The latest ‘Scream’ earns itself an R-rating 

Scream 5 has been the talk of the horror scene ever since its production began in early 2020. The return of Ghostface is getting closer and closer as it is scheduled for release in early January 2022, however, the question lingering on everyone’s minds has surrounded whether or not Scream 5 will carry on the series reputation of getting an R rating? Our questions have finally been answered as Scream producer Chad Villella has revealed that the fifth installment will be as gory as it gets. 

Filming on Chucky wraps

Everyone’s favorite maniacal doll Chucky will be back later this Halloween as the upcoming Child’s Play TV series ‘Chucky’ has finished filming. The series will go back to the earlier days of the franchise as Jennifer Tilly reprises her role as Tiffany, Chucky’s devilishly dark companion. Whilst the return to what made Chucky so iconic has been welcomed by fans, the show will also dive into uncharted territory as the episodes will take a focus on Chucky’s unexplored backstory. 

Chucky will premiere on October 12th on SYFY.

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

Categories
News

This week in horror: 07.08.21

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10/31: Part II hits VOD this August 

Anthology horror 10/31 quickly became a fan favourite after its 2017 release, so much so that 10/31: Part II will be coming to video-on-demand this August. Staying true to its predecessor, Part II’s segments will be directed by indie filmmakers including Brett DeJager, Max Groah, John Hale III, Zane Hershberger, Robert Lanphere, Jennifer Nangle, Tory van Buskirk, and Stephen Wolf. Part II is said to be even more explorative as we are treated to a varied mix of short films which range from possessed nuns and serial killers to vampires and hatchet wielding maniacs. Enveloping the segments is a wrap-around story told by an Elvira-like host called Malvolia: Queen of Screams. 

10/31: Part II premieres on VOD on August 13th. 

Trick or Treat Studios releases House of 1000 Corpses figures 

Trick or Treat Studios are known for their masks, film props, costumes, and figures, now adding to their boastful collection is four new figures based on Otis Driftwood, Baby Firefly, The Professor, and Doctor Satan all from Rob Zombie’s House of 1000 Corpses (2003). The figures stand at 5” tall and will feature individual accessories appropriate to each character. Baby Firefly dons her iconic silver dress, whilst Doctor Satan wears his blood stained surgical apron with his oxygen mask. The figures will be joining Trick or Treat’s Captain Spaulding figure whose release was announced back in may. 

The Shining TV show halts development as HBO Max cancels its release

Back in 2019 it was reported that production company Bad Robot would be producing Overlook, a TV series based on Stephen King’s The Shining. Overlook would focus on the hotel itself and its undiscovered history. Dustin Thomason (Castle Rock) and Scott Brown took on the role of writers of the show which would have focused on the untold stories of The Overlook’s lingering ghosts. However, although Stephen King’s novels are taking over the horror genre HBO Max has cancelled the show, completely halting its development. Rumours have speculated as to why, but sources have revealed that the cancellation is due to a matter of timing. But all hope is not completely lost as Overlook is still looking for streamers…

Night of the Animated Dead announces cast, release date, and cover artwork 

Night of the Animated Dead follows siblings Barbara and Johnny as they take a trip to visit their fathers grave in Pennsylvania. However, the graveyard doesn’t stay quiet for long as they are attacked by zombies. Barbara manges to escape and hides out in an abandoned farmhouse with a group of survivors and a lost motorist. Over the course of the night the group have to battle their own prejudices whilst tackling the undead.

The animated retelling of George A. Romero’s 1968 classic has been highly anticipated ever since its initial announcement, now zombie fans only have to wait until 21st September to get their hands on this soon to be hit. Starring is Josh Duhamel (Jupiter’s Legacy), Katharine Isabelle (Ginger Snaps), Dulé Hill (Psych), James Roday Rodriguez (A Million Little Things), Katee Sackhoff (Riddick), Jimmi Simpson (Westworld), and Nancy Travis (Last Man Standing). Although the animated take will visually differ from the original, plenty of suspenseful action is still guaranteed as the poster illustrates the survivors running from ghastly looking zombies. 

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

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News

This week in horror – 01.08.21

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Jordan Peele announces his latest project ‘Nope’ 

Since the successful releases of Get Out (2017) and Us (2019) everyone has been waiting to see what Jordan Peele will come up with next, that long wait is now finally over as Peele has announced his latest project simply titled Nope. The details surrounding the secretive Nope have been kept very hushed, as we only know the cast and the release date.

Nope reunites Daniel Kaluuya (Get Out) with Peele, alongside Keke Palmer (Hustlers), Steven Yeun (The Walking Dead), Barbie Ferreira (Euphoria), Brandon Perea (The OA), and Michael Wincott (The Crow). The plot for Nope has already been heavily debated as the mystifying poster reveals a stormy blue sky casting over a mountain setting, with a large cloud floating above dangling a kite string. The muddled setting hints at a sci-fi horror, but then the landscape hooks onto folk horror vibes… 

Nope is set for release on July 22nd 2022. 

I Know What You Did Last Summer TV series gets a release date

An exciting new slasher TV series is headed to Amazon Prime Video this October based on Kevin Williamson and Jim Gillespie’s 1997 teen horror I Know What You Did Last Summer. The plot is identical to its original material as we follow a group of teenagers who are stalked by a mysterious killer after they committed a fatal act on the night of their graduation a year prior. The TV series will be directed by horror legend James Wan, with Sara Goodman signing on as the writer. The modern spin on this 1990s classic will star Madison Iseman (Annabelle Comes Home), Brianne Tju (47 Meters Down: Uncaged), Ezekeil Goodman, Ashley Moore, Fiona Rene, and Sebastian Amoruso. 

Filming has wrapped on Paranormal Activity 7 

Paranormal Activity is possibly one of the most widely known found footage franchises, with the first film gaining its entire budget back within a week of its release. It has been six years since the last Paranormal Activity film, which was not necessarily met with much acclaim as the success of each film dwindled as the series went on. But, the upcoming seventh film is set to have a wide release via Paramount+, forgoing the typical theatrical release. William Eubank (Underwater) directs the new paranormal horror, with Christopher Landon (Happy Death Day) writing the script. The new film will tackle some new and innovative themes as producer Jason Blum aims to refresh the series for a younger generation. Paranormal Activity 7 is set for release on March 22nd 2022. 

The Exorcist trilogy is happening 

Rumours regarding a reboot of William Friedkin’s The Exorcist (1973) had been circling the horror scene for a while, but the question on everyone’s lips was finally answered earlier this month when it was revealed that David Gordon Green (Halloween ‘2018’) would be revisioning the genre defining classic. Now, it has been revealed that not only will we be getting a modern retake on The Exorcist, but a full trilogy!

Ellen Burstyn who played Chris MacNeil will be returning to her role, alongside The Exorcist ‘newbie’ Leslie Odom Jr. who will be playing a distressed father who seeks the help of MacNeil in healing his possessed child. The Exorcist trilogy has only just entered the earliest stage of production, so an expected release date is hard to predict, but with Gordon Green’s final Halloween installment reaching cinemas in 2022, it can be predicted that The Exorcist reboot will be premiered in 2023. 

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

Categories
News

This week in horror – 24.07.21

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First Look: James Wan’s Malignant 

James Wan has certainly built up a stellar reputation within genre cinema, with titles such as Saw (2004) and The Conjuring (2013) being created under his name. Wan’s latest venture is Malignant, which follows Madison, who is constantly terrorised by terrifying visions of ghastly murders, but when she unearths a sinister secret it is revealed that these dreams are in fact realities.

The trailer released just this week hints at a looming intense thrill focusing on developing a close character study whilst ensuring plenty of scares are had. Malignant has been described as a supernatural slasher, which is certainly a bold take. Audiences will be able to make up their own minds on this new exciting descent into madness when it hits cinemas in September 2021. 

Ari Aster to direct new A24 horror 

Ari Aster has been a hot topic within the last couple of years as both Hereditary (2018) and Midsommar (2019) exceeded expectations. Earlier this year it was revealed that Aster would be directing Disappointment Boulevard, a heavy drama following the story of an entrepreneur. There was definitely a mixed reception over his next voyage drifting away from horror, but now it has been revealed that he hasn’t abandoned the genre just yet as he joins forces with the aesthetically beloved A24 to direct another unsettling film. However, unlike his other films, he will not be penning the script, instead, Pulitzer Prize winner Michael R. Jackson will be writing this untitled project. Little detail has been released as the production is at the earliest stage possible, but be sure to check back here in the future for further information. 

Julia Ducournau receives the Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival for new body horror ‘Titane’ 

Julia Ducournau is the first solo woman to win the most prestigious award at Cannes Film Festival. It’s not the first time the French director has turned heads as her 2016 film Raw received great acclaim. Winning her the award is Titane, a disturbing body horror that centers on Alexia (Agathe Rousselle), who has a metal plate installed in her head after a tragic car accident when she was younger, but her true story lies within her sexual desires for automotive vehicles. Titane is beyond transgressive as it has been likened to Cronenberg’s early filmography through its courageous and zealous exploration into the human psyche. The eccentrically driven film will be available theatrically and via VOD later this year. 

The Final Girl Support Group TV series to be directed by Andy Muschietti 

Grady Hendrix’s novel The Final Girl Support Group was only published this month, but already HBO has picked the novel up to be adapted into a TV series. The project already has It (2017) director Andy Muschietti tied to direct the pilot, with his production company ‘Double Dream’ also co-producing the show alongside Charlize Theron.

The Final Girl Support Group is sure to please horror audiences as it takes on one of the genres most quintessential topics, the final girl. The novel follows a group of women who meet up in their support group to discuss the horror movie-like events that they have miraculously survived through, but when one of them doesn’t show up they suspect that something sinister must be at play. 

Waxwork records unveil exclusive Fear Street soundtrack vinyls 

Waxwork Records are known for their specialisation of cult and genre cinema soundtrack releases. To add to their repertoire is the Fear Street trilogy soundtrack featuring the score composed for all three films. The vinyl’s embody the film’s neon-lit aesthetic, with bright pink, green, and blue covering the exterior.

Also included in the release are liner notes by Leigh Janiak, the writer and director of Fear Street, as well as new and exciting artwork by the very talented Sam Gilbey, who has clearly been inspired by the iconic 1990s covers of R.L. Stine’s original Fear Street novels in which the trilogy is based on. The vinyl package is available to pre-order right now at https://waxworkrecords.com/products/fear-street

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News

This week in horror – 10.07.21

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First look: New images released from the Slumber Party Massacre remake 

Slumber Party Massacre is one of horror’s lesser-known trilogies, with its reputation still living on mainly via its cult status. Earlier last year news began to circulate about this slasher gem being remade, and it was not long until these rumours were confirmed as Shout! Studios announced that an official remake was in the works.

Recreating the sleepover based slasher is Danishka Esterhazy, known for The Banana Splits Movie (2019). Joining Esterhazy is writer Suzanne Keilly, who has written an episode of Ash vs. Evil Dead, and the screenplay for Leprechaun Returns (2018). The remake acts similarly to the original having been directed and written by women (Amy Holden Jones and Rita Mae Brown), but this is not the only essence remaining true to the original 1982 classic, as it has been revealed that the new slasher will follow a contemporary perspective, whilst still gorging in all the gruesome twists and turns. 

Scream Factory releases the Halloween movies on 4K Ultra HD 

Scream Factory is known for their ambitious and creative physical media releases, especially their exciting limited edition runs of horror favourites. Just this week it was revealed that the Halloween franchise would be joining the Scream Factory’s calibre as they release the first five Halloween films on 4K Ultra HD. The exclusive cover work hones in on Michael Myers terrifying look, accompanied with the autumnal iconography that makes Haddonfield’s on-screen appearances so timeless. Each film release comes with an array of extra features, including a 4K scan from the original negatives, audio commentary from Jamie Lee Curtis & John Carpenter, theatrical trailers, tv spot & radio spot footage, deleted scenes, alternative endings, additional commentary from Rick Rosenthal, behind the scenes action featuring location tours, and a brand new accompanying Dolby Atmos Track. 

Halloween 1-5 will be released on the 28th September 2021. 

Lovecraft Country has been disappointedly cancelled 

Lovecraft Country was an amalgamation of lovecraftian horror and mysterious drama, with craftful performances and innovative writing seeping throughout every episode. However, it seems that this was not enough to keep Lovecraft Country on air as HBO will no longer continue its development. After the commendable first series a second was already in the midst, titled Lovecraft Country: Supremacy, which would have delved deep into a fictionalised America where the country would evolve into a segregated sovereign state. There has been no news as to whether any streaming sites, including Netflix have picked it up for further continuation. 

 George A. Romero’s abandoned Goosebumps script has been archived

It is undeniable that George A. Romero’s legacy has continued long after his passing, with his previously unreleased film The Amusement Park only receiving a release this year. The presence of Romero’s continuing work has only been furthered as the University of Pittsburgh Library System’s Horror Studies group has unearthed an undeveloped script based on R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps novels. Of course, the material that Romero would use as an adaptation source was the zombie-based book Welcome to the Dead House (1992), which focuses on siblings Amanda and Josh Benson as they move into an old eerie house situated in the creepy town of Dark Falls. Romero closely followed R.L. Stine’s work rather than run with the basic outline, but in his archetypal style, he transgressed vital plot elements further, including the essences of hierarchy within work-towns, where townspeople’s independence withers to corporate superiority. 

More details can be found at the University of Pittsburgh Library System’s Horror Studies website: https://horrorstudies.library.pitt.edu/content/george-romeros-goosebumps

Youtuber and film critic Chris Stuckmann set to direct upcoming horror ‘Shelby Oaks’

Chris Stuckmann is a pillar in the online horror community with his honest and entertaining reviews and film commentary captivating audiences, and amassing nearly 2 million YouTube subscribers. Stuckmann has recently made a deal with production company Gotham Group to develop a handful of horror scripts. His first project under them will be Shelby Oaks, which is based in the early 2000s and follows a missing group of ghost hunters named The Paranormal Paranoids. Aaron B. Koontz (The Pale Door) will be producing alongside Ashleigh Snead (Scare Package), and Cameron Burns (Camera Obscura). Shelby Oaks is quickly gaining traction as although filming has not yet begun, a viral marketing strategy has already started creating hype. A series of ‘found footage’ clips are being slowly released showing The Paranormal Paranoids in a mission gone wrong.

Production begins in late 2021. 


Scream 5 has wrapped production 


It seems that nearly everybody has been eagerly waiting for the new Scream movie release, now we’re one step further as director’s Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett have announced that production has finally finished after months of filming via an Instagram post showing Scream 5’s title screen card in an ultra flash editing suite. Although the stages of release are nearing we still have a little bit more to wait as the theatrical release date is scheduled for January 22nd 2022. The film will follow the franchise’s typical structure, with Scream 5 following on from its predecessor (Scream 4, 2011).

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

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News

This week in horror – 04.06.21

dead northern news

Norman Nordstrom is back in the latest Don’t Breathe 2 trailer 

The Blind Man Returns in First Trailer for 'Don't Breathe 2' Tomorrow! - Bloody Disgusting

It seems like forever ago when it was revealed that Fede Álvarez’s 2016 home invasion horror Don’t Breathe would be getting a sequel. However, the long wait was worth it as Dont Breathe 2 will finally be released in August. Following the announcement of the release date was the highly anticipated trailer which dropped just this week. The trailer does reveal a hefty portion of the film, with a running time of nearly three minutes, but what the clips most excitedly show is the change of character. Norman Nordstrom (Stephen Lang), who mercilessly protected his property and the secrets that lie within it in the predecessor seems to now be the victim, as we see him fight in vengeance over intruders attempting to abduct his adopted daughter, Phoenix (Madelyn Grace). 

Dont Breathe 2 will be released on the 13th August 2021. 

The Exorcist remake is officially happening 

It can be accurately said that The Exorcist is possibly one of the most universally well known horror films ever. Since it’s 1973 release The Exorcist’s reputation has only grown into worldwide success. Now, it has been officially revealed that Blumhouse Productions will be bravely producing this fan favorite. Blumhouse has made an effort to gain over the very negative presence that has stuck with the news of William Friedkin work being regenerated by enlisting David Gordon Green as the director, who successfully tackled Halloween (2018), and the upcoming Halloween Kills. So far The Exorcist has spawned four sequels, but Blumhouse’s upcoming project will abandon any continuation from the sequels, with the new film only following directly from the original. 

Werewolves Within adaption from Josh Ruben opens with beaming reviews 

Werewolves Within': How Josh Ruben Accidentally Made a Great Video-Game Movie | Vanity Fair

Josh Ruben released the delightfully frightful Scare Me early last year, which gained immediate praise from fans and critics alike. Soon after it was revealed that Ruben would be directing Werewolves Within, an adaption of the 2016 video game of the same name. The premise follows Finn (Sam Richardson) and Cecily (Milana Vayntrub) as they attempt to restore harmony and unmask the secret behind a mysterious being that has started to terrorize the small town of Beaverfield. Michael Chernus, Michaela Watkins, Cheyenne Jackson, George Basil, Sarah Burns, Catherine Curtin, Wayne Duvall, Harvey Guilen, Rebecca Henderson also feature in the film. Similarly to Ruben’s preceding film Scare Me, Werewolves Within is an exciting combination of classic scares and hilarious comedy which only certain talents can achieve so well. So it’s of no surprise that the film has received such attention already. 

Werwolves Within is released via VOD on July 2nd 2021. 

Iconiq Studios unveils new American Psycho figure 

American Psycho – 1/6 Scale Patrick Bateman Collectible Figure | Iconiq Studios


American Psycho’s Patrick Bateman has become a horror household name, as his eccentric and delirious persona has certainly left its mark across cinema. Iconiq Studios has officially released a marvelously detailed figure of Bateman, including various accessories and alternative pieces. The ultra exciting figure is brimming with precise detail including that terrifying menacing grin that Bateman wears so well. The release comes standard with the infamous pinstripe suit, but for variation includes a full length blazer coat, briefcase, headphone set (for all of his Huey Lewis and the News listening), three extra pairs of hands, knife, phone, watch, nail gun, axe, blood splatter piece, two business cards, and most importantly that clear raincoat.

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News

This week in horror – 27.06.21

dead northern news

Full Candyman trailer is finally unleashed

Candyman has been the word on everyone’s lips since it’s teaser trailer release late last year, and now that buzz has only heightened with the brand new trailer released earlier this week showing Nia DaCosta’s take on revamping the iconic Candyman franchise. The Jordan Peele produced film brings Candyman back to where it all started with Tony Todd returning to his iconic role, but as the trailer reveals, this reboot will be far from anything we’ve already seen as it’s more of a spiritual sequel than a direct continuation. Scenes of inner turmoil, forgotten communities, and frightful legends all make an appearance, with the brief clips revealing a new Candyman with a strong message taking the forefront on societal constructions.

Universal Pictures releases Candyman on the 27th August. 

V/H/S/94 set for a late summer release on Shudder

News recently broke of a fourth installment in the V/H/S saga. V/H/S/94 is the upcoming horror showcasing exciting talent within the genre, with the anthology essence creating something for everyone. The ‘94’ essence is a direct nod to the year that handheld cameras came about, which means that we’ll probably be in for a nostalgic ride into horrors most absurd short films. V/H/S/94 will be curated in the franchises typical anthology method, with the segments being directed by Ryan Prows, Chloe Okuno, and Jennifer Reeder. It has not been disclosed whether this list will continue, but we do know that it won’t be long until we find out as the official premiere will be held on Shudder late this summer. 

Filming is wrapped on Mainframe Pictures latest horror ‘She Came from the Woods’

It has been revealed that Ten Minutes to Midnight creators Erik and Carson Bloomquist will be adapting their 2017 short film ‘She Came from the Woods’ into a feature film. The film focuses upon a group of camp staff members conjuring an old legend on the final day of camp in 1987. Already the film has an impressive lineup, with Adam Weppler who starred in Ten Minutes to Midnight reuniting with Bloomquist, alongside Cara Buono (Stranger Things), Clare Foley (Gotham), Spencer List (The Miseducation of Cameron Post), Ehad Berisha (Billions), Juliana Davis (The Post), and William Sadler (The Shawshank Redemption). Mainframe Pictures (founded by the Bloomquist brothers) has announced that production has just wrapped, with post production stages commencing shortly. 

Halloween Kills is one step closer to its release with the new trailer dropping this week

When it was announced years ago that David Gordon Green would be delivering the eleventh movie in the Halloween franchise, fans of the classic horror were not overly happy with yet another entry, however once Halloween (2018) was released the consensus changed entirely as the series went back to its roots for the first time since the early 1980s. So it’s safe to say that the long awaited Halloween Kills is one of this year’s most anticipated films.

After continued delays due to restrictions, the full trailer has finally been released. Although Michael Myers was left burning in Laurie’s trapped basement, the trailer shows Myers rising from the flames to go on yet another murderous rampage. The official release date is the 15th October, perfect timing for All Hallows’ Eve. 

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

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News Reviews

The best horror films and shows streaming right now

vod horror

Have you found yourself aimlessly scrolling across streaming services looking for something just right, but you always end up chucking on your usual comfort movie? Well look no further! Here is our compiled list of the best devilishly dark gems across all of your favorite sites.

Netflix 

1- The Invitation (Karyn Kusama, 2015)

In the sunset-stricken mansions of Hollywood Hills lies one of horror’s most foreboding, menacing and cryptically creepy dinner parties, as we see an awkward gathering twist into a fatal soiree. We follow Will (Logan Marshall-Green), and his girlfriend Kira (Emayatzy Corinealdi), as they travel to Will’s ex-wife Eden’s (Tammy Blanchard) house for a dinner party to reacquaint with old friends, but Eden and her new husband David (Michiel Huisman) have alternative plans for the evening.

What makes The Invitation so inviting is Kusama’s favouring of subtle terror that gradually unease’s the senses, rather than numerous jump scares to affect the audience. This allure of anxious situations melts throughout the film, with our own irrational thoughts about unsteady situations guiding our emotional response. The Invitation is doused in secrets, and for this reason I will remain brief, but I can reveal that this film will tease your own experiences with grief, guilt and denial to create an experience that stays with you long after watching.

2- Creep (Patrick Brice, 2014)

Creep has soared across the genre, earning itself quite the reputation, however it is nowhere near discussed enough. The entanglement of a character-based study filmed using the found-footage technique is not to be underestimated, as Creep has some of modern horror’s most spine tingling moments. The film follows Aaron (Brice), who accepts a quick job to be Josef’s (Mark Duplass) videographer for the day. Josef has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour and wants to make a video diary for his unborn child with his wife Angela, in the form of living on past his death.

Brice toys with Josef’s motives, with the audience not being sure whether he really is this hopeless being or whether he hides a much darker secret. Either way, we know that something is not right. The film is coy with its exposition and is actually rather quiet as the narrative primarily focuses on Josef’s ambiguous speeches. Creep has since gone on to produce an equally effective sequel, and a third film is in the running.

3- Extra Ordinary (Enda Loughman & Mike Ahern, 2019)

Filmed and set in rural Ireland is Ahern and Loughman’s directorial debut, Extra Ordinary, which is a hilarious take on the classic ghost possession story. The film focuses on Rose (Maeve Higgins), a lonely driving instructor who possesses unique supernatural powers. However, her abilities have remained dormant ever since an unfortunate accident killed her father. This is until one day when the helpless Martin (Barry Ward) contacts her to banish the spirit of his annoying dead wife.

Extra Ordinary is blessed with the unusual cinematic grant to equally tackle its horror components just as much as the humour. The film packs a weighty punch, allowing for an extremely memorable watch. To meet the film’s devilishly delightful vocations is the performances by both Higgins and Ward, who together form the ideal ghostbusting duo. Extra Ordinary drives on the line of quirky situations, irreverent laughs, and most importantly good old fashioned scares.

4- American Mary (Jen and Sylvia Soska, 2012)

Gruesome body horror and ruthless revenge plots meet in the Soska sisters’ flesh hungry tale of alternative lifestyles. The film centers upon desperate surgical student Mary (Katharine Isabelle), who after struggling with debts decides to use her skills to perform extreme body modification surgeries. But, after a horrific assault, she uses her new found side hustle to seek revenge.

American Mary is as eccentric as it sounds, as marginalised subjects such as body modifications are a major driving force in the film’s innate spell of forcing the audiences to gaze upon a scary but dream-like world. The film is set in modern day, but the drastic appearances cast an air of hypnotizing bewilderment. Alongside this is the gorefest that the Soska’s do not shy away from, resulting in a perplexing, macabre, and grisly enactment of the defiance of societal norms. 

5- Black Summer (created by Karl Schaefer and John Hymams, 2019-) 

The slow drawling zombies of horror classics are point blank terrifying, but what’s even worse is when these human hungry beasts are rapid and chaotic. This terrifying combination is horrifically exhibited in Black Summer, Netflix own take on a post apocalyptic world. Rooted at the heart of Black Summer is a treacherous tale of a mothers love, as we follow Rose (Jamie King), who has been separated from her daughter in the midst of the zombie attacks. But, Rose rises up and struggles through a miserable journey in a bid to find her lost child. Across the two seasons the show swarms off and dips into additional sub plots, forcing the viewer to not pause for one moment. Furthering the hecticness is the frenzied camera work that avoids stillness, keeping the story fresh and alert. 

Amazon Prime Video

1- The Woman in Black (James Watkins, 2012)

The Woman in Black belongs to the revival of Hammer Productions, who of course is infamous for the classic gothic horror of the 1950s through to the 1970s. Walking in Hammer’s archaic tales of haunted manors and troubled characters is Watkins’ take on the horror novel of the same name written by Susan Hill. The film follows Arthur (Daniel Radcliffe), a widowed lawyer who is sent to an isolated village in 20th century England to retrieve documents from a decaying estate. However, Arthur soon discovers that the manor is haunted by a vengeful ghost who will stop at nothing to claim back what was stolen from her. The eerie setting is beyond terrifying, with the mansion featuring some of horror’s most traditional elements, including dark hallways, ghostly reflections in windows, and creepy children.

2- Splinter (Toby Wilkins, 2008) 

2008 was a year that saw films such as The Strangers, Lake Mungo, Eden Lake, and Let the Right One in regenerate the market, but one film that has seemed to slip under the radar is Wilkins exploration into contained horror, Splinter. This gem follows a young couple who become trapped in a petrol garage with a strange spiked creature that infects and almost reanimates its victims into spiky sharp beings. The story rings familiar, a young romance under threat from an anonymous force, but Splinter frays from conventions and takes the unpredictable route every time. 

3- The Woman (Lucky McKee, 2011)

Lucky McKee has delivered some quality films for the genre, including May (2002) and All Cheerleaders Die (2013), but The Woman is possibly his most determined and ruthless film to burst out of his filmography. We follow the last remaining survivor of a cannibalistic tribe (Pollyanna McIntosh), who lives in the northeast coast, which is the same ground that the misogynistic lawyer and ‘family man’ Chris Cleek (Sean Bridgers) uses to hunt. It’s not long until Chris abducts this woman and holds her hostage for his own selfish needs.

The Woman is a powerful film that explores the fragmentation of the modern day American Dream, and the ricocheted shrapnel the comes loose when a family suffers from an internal dispute. This heavy narrative is richly involved, but do not let this fool you, McKee infuses an audacious soundtrack that keeps the film exciting, alongside this is the outstanding performances from Bridgers, McIntosh, and Angela Bettis. 

4- The Clovehitch Killer (Duncan Skiles, 2018) 

The Clovehitch Killer remains one of the most chilling depictions of a killer within the home. The film focuses upon Tyler Burnside (Charlie Plummer), a 16 year old boy from a strict Christian family. His life is brimming with church goings, family dinners at the table, and Scout Troop meetings. However, the harmony is brutally disrupted when Tyler begins to suspect that his role model father, Don (Dylan McDermott), is behind the murders that have plagued their small town. Based on a true story of the BTK Killer is a heartbreaking tale of deceit, destroyed relationships, and the slow developments of how repressed contradictions can make people reach their limits. The ‘look’ of the film is monotonous, with a dull colour palette and mundane situations making the harrowing storyline standout amongst the ordinary. 

5- The Rental (Dave Franco, 2020)

The Rental seemed to come out of nowhere, with its toned down production allowing for a pleasant surprise. And although it was met with a fair amount of acclaim, it is still vastly criticised and unappreciated. We follow two couples as they embark on a weekend getaway to an ocean rental house. All is well, besides the landlord being rather old fashioned, however this is the least of their concerns, as they soon realise that their every move is being watched. The Rental plays on the old gimmick of voyeurism, with our instinctual fear of being watched being constantly delved into throughout the film. However, Franco does not solely rely upon this to envelope the narrative, instead there is a heavy subplot of mistrust, that not only furthers the tension, but also makes the film risky and memorable. 

Shudder

1- Super Dark Times (Kevin Phillips, 2017) 

Super Dark Times is a film that brews slowly, and takes its time to haunt the viewer. Nothing is drastically viscous, gory, or even wrenching, instead it plays on inner trauma through adhering primarily to a character driven story. When a disastrous incident accidently occurs, we see a close knit group of teenage boys suffer from grief, jealousy, and paranoia. The 1996 suburban setting provides a film drenched with nostalgic iconography and a deep atmospheric tone. The general synopsis is not entirely far from typical, but what heightens the intrigue is how the events play out. Nothing is bountiful, yet the ominous foreboding outcome leaves us hooked to the very end. 

2- Spiral (Kurtis David Harder, 2019) 

Spiral takes its presence to the extreme, with the film not shying away from the brutality that the LGBT+ community undergoes, particularly in isolated small towns. The film centres on a same- sex couple who move into a beautiful suburb with their teenage daughter, the backlash is prominent, but events are truly turned up a notch when they suspect that their neighbourhood harbours a sinister secret. Spiral has been continuously labelled as ‘Get Out meets Hereditary’, and although these are stellar films, Spiral rides on its own entirely unique path. The film is a slow burner right through to the bone, with looming presences and tormenting heights simmering throughout. 

3- Prevenge (Alice Lowe, 2016)

Prevenge is an incredible example of the fear of motherhood evoked onscreen. This subject is not often tackled within horror, but Lowe proves that pregnancy is not something that cinema should only use as a minor subplot. Prevenge follows Ruth (Lowe), a pregnant widow who believes that her unborn child is telling her to kill those who played a role in her husband’s death. The general storyline of who her victims are and what they did to contribute to her loss is not really explored, with Lowe focusing solely on Ruth’s slow descent into complete madness. The film is brutally transgressive as it refuses to downplay the grief one experiences when going through a life changing event alone, especially when this was not the plan. 

4- Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror (Xavier Burgin, 2019)

Horror Noire is a documentary film that is based upon the book titled “Horror Noire: Blacks in American Horror Films from the 1890s to Present” written by Robert R. Means Coleman. The film takes a careful look at the connection between how horror cinema has evolved and African-American history. Horror Noire examines how the lack of diversity seen across the industry is not only detrimental to performers and creators, but also how the genre’s history negatively portrays black people. Adding to the documentary’s exploration is the focus upon how the genre has only recently seen new additions to diversity, with the films Get Out (2017), Attack the Block (2011), and The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) being discussed. 

5- Creepshow (2019-) 

The Creepshow films have been fan favourites since the first release in 1982. Creepshow the tv series has a total of two seasons (with the latest only being released this year), and two special episodes. The Creepshow legacy was brought back to life in 2018 when special effects legend Greg Nicotero (known for his work on Army of Darkness, Scream, and The Walking Dead), announced that he will be producing the new show which streams on Shudder. In true form the show has stuck to what made George A. Romero’s take on Stephen King’s work so well, through the ideal mix of menacing humour and amusingly nightmarish themes.

This weeks article comes via Grace from Film Overload, you can check out more of her work here.

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