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Reviews
Searching for Haizmann (2003)
Well Crafted Mystery
Searching for Haizmann is a well executed, well crafted horror film that utilizes one of the best means of conveying a story-the mystery. Events and characters unfold as our protagonists search for the truth, and ultimately before the truth finds them. The director takes this convention a step further, allowing his narrative to unspool thru interviews and pre-recorded segments. While this may seem like a gimmick similar to the Blair Witch Project and Cannibal Holocaust, the cinema vertie style lends itself nicely to the overall style and adds to enhance the atmosphere of dread. A nicely ambiguous ending further adds to the surrealistic environment and proves to be an interesting twist.
The Deadly Spawn (1983)
Awesome Transfer, Great FX
Very rarely to the mechanics of authoring and transferring worm their way into a review, but this is one exception that should be noted. What is an early 80s horror, never looks better than it does today. The image and colors look magnificent, much better than I remember them to be from the early videocassette versions. And the extras on the disc are incredible. From behind the scenes to early publicity, each corner is covered. As for the film, it is still the same endearing alien monster fest we all remember it to be, just now only stronger and better looking. The effects are the real stand out here. From gore to the aliens themselves, all are staged with tremendous imagination and craft that never reveals their low budget origins. A truly awesome independent effort that has aged well and has finally received the DVD treatment it so deserves.
Single and Dealing with It (2003)
Well Written, Well Acted Entertainment
Writer Robert Rowland needs to take a bow for a very well written and executed comedy. Comedy is perhaps the hardest genre to pull off on an independent level and Rowland succeeds in being funny, poignant, touching, and heart warming. Watching SADWI will automatically draw comparisons to much more expensive Hollywood films, but here is a film that captivates and wins you over with more heart and soul than 10 studio films combined. And all this is achieved without big name actors. But this does not by any means hurt the film. In fact, you would swear that all the cast had appeared in several other motion pictures. This is a film that needs and deserves a wide mainstream audience. Why it has not been picked up is beyond me. Any film buff needs to seek out this film.
Den (2001)
Better than "Saw"
With Saw receiving so much attention, it is only fair to note this film came first and adds an additional layer of realism, depth, and artistry that may only be produced on the independent scene. I cannot believe that this film has not made it onto video store shelves, especially in light of the fact that Saw was such a hit. Where this film shines is in its cast. The performances rank up their with traditional Hollywood fair and help to elevate the film above its humble independent origins. The film builds steadily and creepily towards its satisfying climax. While it does surround itself in a bit of controversy, the ending will surely get you talking and thinking. Not bad from a horror film. Check it out, you'll be thinking about this one for days.
Dead Birds (2004)
Great Twist Ending
With a film that deserved to play in theaters, horror fans will now have the pleasure of seeing what is truly a surprising film. Packed with great performances, a great hook, fantastic special effects, and a twist ending that will surely please the most jaded film buff, Dead Birds deserves a place in your DVD collection. Taking a well worn premise, Dead Birds fashions it as a period piece and deliberately builds slowly to maximize tension and frights. While not a monster fest, the director wisely and selectively trots out his beasts for the most dramatic impact. Henry Thomas gives an astounding performance and makes you question why we do not see more of him. Overall, an intriguing experience all the way to the final frames.
White Noise (2005)
An Absorbing, Well Acted Thriller
While there may be some plot shortcomings, overall White Noise has much to offer. While at some points it is brought down by its PG-13 rating, and the studios commitment to maintain that rating, the director does an excellent job in provoking tension and suspense without resorting to gorier and more violent tidbits. Instead, the focus is placed upon character development and the performances from his cast. Keaton does a fantastic job in creating the lost, grieving widower. Additional attention is placed on the film's hook: the electronic voice phenomenon. While at first it may be considered a gimmick, the film finely brings it into reality and uses it well as a lightning rod for tension. You will be disappointed if you are looking for gore and violence, but if you appreciate well acted, tightly directed thrillers with an interesting angle, then you will be satisfied with this absorbing thriller.
Corpses Are Forever (2004)
Indie Zombie Fun
What could have been coarse, crass exploitation, is instead a fun exercise in crossing the living dead and spy genres. At the forefront, it is plainly noted the loving craft and attention dedicated to detail. While there are a few shortcomings, CAF will gleefully and overwhelmingly win you over. From fantastic cinematography to a great story, this indie film definitely stretches the barriers of what is to be expected of direct to video quickies. Rather than abuse the already beaten horror genre, CAF infuses wit, imagination, and style into an area of cinema that greatly appreciates it. So many horror films rather pander to the audience, while CAF goes the extra mile to entertain and challenge with its perplexing mystery that combines paranoia with action excitement. Go check it out.