Film - April 07

30th April

Teaser trailer for J-Horror "Densen-Uta" aka "Deadly Song"

Further to our post on April 26th, The website for Yasushi Akimoto’s new horror "Densen Uta" (Deadly Song) has just gone live. Lurking within is what looks to be a very promising teaser trailer. This brief glimpse has us intrigued to see more.

'Densen Uta' (Official site)

29th April

Drift racing craze in Malaysian spawns local movie "Impak Maksima"

It looks like Malaysians can't get enough of ‘Drift' and various other forms of street racing. "Impak Maksima" “maximum Impact”, an upcoming local film, is cashing in on the popular illegal sport. Although "Impak Maksima" won't be the first to pick up on the lure of street racing, it follows the footsteps of local movies like "Gangster" and the popular "Remp-it".

The success of international films like "Initial D" and "2 Fast 2 Furious" has apparently set a trend among youngsters by popularising street racing and since then, it has caught on like wildfire. "Impak Maksima" will mirror the cult hit "Tokyo Drift" by being the first to showcase 'drifting' on Malaysian streets. However, it won't be the last as there is word of another 'drifting' movie, called "Evolusi: Drift", in the works. It is supposedly directed by acclaimed director Yusoff Haslam's son, Shamsul Yusoff.

Response to the movie seems to be mixed, as some think it encourages illegal racing but anticipation for its release is running high, nonetheless. An unofficial trailer of "Impak Maksima" is circulating on the Internet and is said to be director Ahmad Idham's next project after his horror hit, "Jangan Pandang Belakang". The trailer shows scenes of the revved-up cars as they drift and swerve through the streets of KL. There are snippets of kungfu-styled fight scenes as well. "Impak Maksima" will be released sometime in August 2007. [Source: Cinema online]

28th April

Official trailer for "Elizabeth: The Golden Age"

The first official trailer is online for 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age'. We say ‘official’ as there has been a leaked version of the trail knocking around for over a week, but it was a tiny Flash version, and God awful quality. Now though we can see it in crisp Quicktime. Cate Blanchett reprises her role, to continue the story Elizabeth's crusade to secure her position as a major power of the western world.

Synopsis: "As Queen Elizabeth I's cousin Mary Stuart conspires with Philip of Spain to topple the throne, Sir Francis Walsingham, Elizabeth's trusty advisor works tirelessly to protect her from the many conspiracies against her. Preparing to go to war to defend her empire from the Spanish armada, Elizabeth struggles to balance royal duties with an unexpected vulnerability in her attraction to Sir Walter Raleigh."

'Golden Age' is currently in post production, and is due to open Autumn 07.

27th April

"28 Weeks Later": Review

We were lucky enough to get an invite to the world premiere of ’28 weeks later.’ So here is our take on the movie. Warning minor spoilers!

Director ‘Juan Carlos Fresnadillo’ had his work cut out for him taking on a sequel to the hugely popular ‘28 Days Later.’ Ever since news of a follow up first reached the horror community, the view as to whether ‘28 Weeks later’ would be any good has split the fan base right down the middle. Has Juan Carlos pulled off a decent sequel is what everyone wants to know. Well in our opinion.. it’s a resounding yes.

“28 weeks” is a different beast in some ways to its predecessor, but by no means a total departure from the original. Following on from ‘Days’ the UK’s population has been wiped from the face of the earth, destroyed by the RAGE virus. An American led U.N. force set about rebuilding a shattered country by reintegrating the remaining Britons who are not infected. Save if their enclosed sanctuary island the RAGE virus is arrogantly assumed to have run its course, and all seems well….until. How it returns is done through a quite clever plot (too much of a spoiler to say how) twist, that had the audience I was with gasping in surprise. As the virus spreads the Army launches an all out assault to eradicate ever living thing in the “safety zone.”

So what else is different about the film. Well for one the infected. These are a new breed of killer, faster, more vicious, and they bite! And we mean BITE. There are several scenes where they attack in a manner that is more reminiscent of a Romero movie, entrails and all. Another improvement over the original is the portrayal of a city deserted by its populous. We are treated to huge sweeping shots of London deserted of all life, that only goes to increase the sense of loss, desolation, and dread. There are also several superb set piece scenes. Most notably is when 100s of people are trapped in a massive underground warehouse as the RAGE virus takes hold, sweeping through the mass of terrified people. And a superbly gory scene, were a helicopters blades (you work it out) are used to dispose of a rampaging mob on infected.

So what do we think over all. Well director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo knows how to make a horror film. From the outset the movie kicks you in the guts hard, ramps up the tension and then kicks you again. If you’re a huge fan of the original (and we were) we don’t think you’ll be disappointed. ’28 weeks’ goes on general release May 11th.

27th April

2nd poster for "Dark Water"

A new poster for the Thai horror "Dark Water" from ‘Right beyond films’ is out. Looking good too. You can see it larger from the link below. For more info on the movie, scroll down to our original post back on April 15th.

'Dark Water' (2nd Poster)

27th April

"The Haunted School" now available on DVD

Produced by Andrew Lau, the co-director of the Infernal Affairs series, The Haunted School pools together a bunch of rising idols in Hong Kong, including Tsui Tin Yau of Shine, Steven Cheung and Dennis Mak of Sun Boy'z, Toby Leung and Macy Chan from Life is Beautiful, Theresa Fu from Cookies, and Don Li. Singer Amanda Lee, away from the entertainment circle for years, returns as the school's disciplinary mistress.

Director Chin Man Kei employs various techniques in editing and sound effects to spice up this typical teen horror flick, making it different from other Hong Kong films in the same genre. A spooky school setting provides the best backdrop for such a film. Lap Lan Secondary School had a fire that burnt down the school office 10 years ago, since when ghost stories about the school have been circulated, from mysterious silhouettes on the wall to eerie songs at midnight.

Four boys join this girl's school under the new education policy, and the girls are just overjoyed to ignore the school's "no dating" regulation. But none have expected that their puppy love affairs would unseal a curse that was buried in The Haunted School 10 years ago!

'The Haunted School' (Official site)

'The Haunted School' Order the DVD here

26th April

New horror from the creator of 'One Missed Call': "Densen-Uta"

Author Yasushi Akimoto, who wrote the original "One Missed Call" ("Chakushin Ari") novel, is at work on a new horror film. The movie entitled "Densen Uta" (English title 'Gloomy Sunday') and will be directed by Masato Harada. "Densen Uta" which literally means “The deadly song,” tells the story of a song that is said to cause death whenever it is sung.

Members the pop group AKB48 will star as high school students who discover the song by chance, while Ryuhei Matsuda will play the character of a hack reporter trying to find the truth behind the song. After the success of "One Missed Call," Akimoto had considered a movie revolving around a song. The story of "Densen Uta" is apparently based on an urban legend surrounding the Hungarian song "Gloomy Sunday," which was alleged to have caused multiple suicides.

We have included a link to the movies official site, but as yet it’s just a holding page. One to be added to our favorites page there. Filming began in March, and the movie is set to open in Japan in August.

26th April

First poster for "Evil Twin"

The first one sheet has arrived for the upcoming Korean horror “Evil Twin,” by first-time director Kim Ji-hwan. Based on a well known Korean television series the movie is produced by Studio Box. The films story revolves around a man who falls in love with twin sisters, but the girls jealous rivalry over the man leads to a tale of death and revenge from beyond the grave.

'Evil Twin' (Poster)

'Evil Twin' (Stills)

25th April

Teaser trailer for "Men in white"

The first teaser trail is out for 'Men in white, the new horror-comedy from Singapore director Kelvin Tong. The film takes an irreverent look at the superstitious side of Singapore society. Post production is finished and the film is slated to open in Singapore June 8th. For more info on the film, check out our original article back on April 14th.

'Men in white' Teaser (Youtube)

24th April

Full trailer for Zombie horror "Hells ground"

We've had more news on this unusual co-production. The Myspace page for Pakistan's first ever Zombie horror “Hells Ground” has been updated with a great looking full trailer.

The movie tells the tale of a gang of teens heading to a pop concert whose path is blocked by a protest against polluted water. Trying to cut around them on a little used dirt road, they get lost and run afoul of a family of Zombie creating psychopaths.

Check out the trailer from the link below.

'Hells Ground' (Myspace page)

23rd April

"Shinobi - Heart under blade" gets French theatrical release

Great news for French fans of Asian cinema, with a theatrical release of the superb Ninja, martial arts epic "Shinobi- Heart under Blade."

Synopsis:" 'Oboro' (Yukie Nakama) and Gennosuke (Jô Odagiri) are members of the opposing clans, but despite this they are very much in love. Living deep within the mountains, over 100s of years the two ninja clans have honed their skills to superhuman levels. Even though the clans are bitter rivals, and are forbidden by imperial decree from making war on each other.

Viewing the Ninja as a threat to his scheme for total domination of the region, the local lord ‘Nankobo Tenkai’ (Ishibashi Renji) plots to intensify the rivalry between the two clans. Through deception Nakobo creates a contest in which the clans are forced to choose five of their best warriors to participate. The battle however is not a friendly contest - it's a duel to the death."

While there are definite Romeo and Juliet elements to 'Shinobi,' that in no way means it’s lacking in action. The love affair acts mainly as a backdrop to the main story of unresolved hatred between two ninja clans. It is that hatred that finally erupts into in all out war. With some spectacular effects, and superbly choreographed fight sequences, ‘Shinobi’ is a must for fans of the genre. The film opens in France on May 16th. ‘Shinobi’ (Official French site)

23rd April

Finnish fantasy horror "Sumu" aka "The Mist"

We stumbled across the great looking independent Finnish short horror tale today. An added bonus is that the entire 55 minute movie is available to download free with English subtitles, from the pics official site! The movie was produced by ‘Coldspell’ pictures, and is the work of first time director ‘Jesse Jokela.’

Plotline: ”A small northern village is troubled by a strange mist. When a messenger disappears the village chief ‘Ukko’ decides to send word to a nearby castle for help. But when‘Ukko’ asks his son-in-law ‘Uljas’ to lead the group, he refuses saying the chief is overreacting. However when ‘Uljas’ finds out his beloved wife is on her way to the castle with three companions, he immediately changes his mind and sets off after them panic stricken. The mist is hiding something terrible the villagers were never supposed to see: except ‘Uljas’ once did.”

The movie is historically based, but it’s hard to pin down exactly when its supposed to be set. Either way it’s a great looking film, well shot, and with tons of atmosphere. 'The Mist' (Official site)

22nd April

Hollywood to remake 80's classic horror "Terror Train"

Hollywood is remaking classic 80s horror "Terror Train." Nu Image will produce. Writer-director Gideon Raff ("The Killing Floor") is set to write and director the remake, which Nu Image announced Tuesday. The film will revolve around a group of college athletes who find themselves on a dangerous train in Europe. The film starts shooting this summer in Bulgaria.

[Source: Hollywood reporter]

21th April

Indonesian Zombie/Ghost horror "Angkerbatu"

Director Jose Poernomo returns for another horror tale ‘Angkerbatu.’ Poernomo’s first feature the cult hit “Jelangkung” aka “The Univited” was shot on digital video for a mere $30.000, and was one of the highest grossing Indonesian films ever.

Synopsis: "Angkerbatu, is a forest region believed by locals to be a gateway to the kingdom of spirits, and part of the Goddess Nyai Roro Kidul’s Palace.The story begins when reporter Manda and Rino, cameraman from a Korean television company (Voice of Korea) go missing. They were there to cover the demo of villagers against the development of the biggest modern golf-course in Asia, being built in the ‘Angkerbatu’ region by a Korean corporation.

The villagers believe that the clearing of this forest will disrupt the piece of Angkerbatu’s "guardians" and will put all theirs lives in danger.All communication from the group suddenly ceases, and another team of Voice of Korea, Yudha (the producer), Kanaya (the reporter) and Warno (the driver) head to ‘Angkerbatu’ to look for their missing colleagues. There they find a situation worse than they could ever imagined. The entire village is deserted. Something terrible has happened to the inhabitance, and a fog begins to descend slowly covering all of Angkerbatu.“

The movie opens in Indonesia on April 27th. ‘Angkerbatu’ Trailer

20th April

Upcoming Malaysian horror "Orang Minyak"

News in on an upcoming horror from Malaysia ‘Orang Minyak,’ which literally translated apparently means ‘Oily man.’ Directed by Jamal Maarif the films stars Sharifah Sofea, Jobot Mehran & Fauzi Nawawi.

So who or what is an ‘Orang Minyak’? Here is what Wikipedia has to say on the subject: “The Orang Minyak is one of a number of supposed ghosts in Malay culture. According to one legend, the ‘Orang minyak’ was a man who in an attempt to win back his love with magic was cursed. The devil offers to help the creature and give him powers of the black arts, but only if the Orang minyak worshipped the devil and defiles 21 virgins within a week. In another version it is under control of an evil bomoh or witch doctor.”

From reading the plot summary it seems the movies storyline will be based more on the first legend. A group of villagers do battle with the ‘Orang Minyak,' and attempt to stop it completing its bloody ritual to attain power. No exact release date as yet, but the movie is due out this year. More news as we get it.

20th April

French website & poster for George Lucas's "THX1138"

George Lucas’s first ever feature length film the futuristic thriller ‘THX1138’ (1971) is to get a theatrical release in France. As well as the great poster they have created for the launch, there is also a new French official site to browse. For those whose French is a tad rusty, you can check out the original English language site here.

THX 1138 depicts an Orwellian future, featuring three residents of a dystopia in which a huge level of control is exerted upon the populace through ever-present faceless, android police-officers and mandatory, regulated use of drugs to suppress all emotion, including sexual desire.

Synopsis: “THX 1138 (Robert Duvall) and his mate, LUH 3417 (Maggie McOmie), are factory workers, building the robotic police that keep order in their stark world. The soundtrack to their lives is a news service that continually lists information about factory accidents, as well as sex and drug crimes.

When LUH decides she and THX should stop taking their medication, their sense of humanity--and their desire and love for each other as a couple--is unleashed. It’s not long, however, before they are imprisoned for this crime, and LUH learns then that she is pregnant. Separated, THX embarks on a journey to find her with the help of rebel SEN (Donald Pleasence) and hologram SRT (Don Pedro Colley), eventually attempting a dramatic escape to the outside world”

The French cinematic release will be the directors cut, which includes several new scenes Lucas created, and some re-shoots using CG to insert the actors and replace existing footage. The film opens in France June 13th.

19th April

UK release date for Russian horror "Day Watch" announced

It’s official. 20th Century Fox UK has finally announced the theatrical opening date for ‘Day Watch’ the second in director Timur Bekmambetov’s fantasy horror trilogy. That’s the good news. The bad is that the release isn’t for another 6 Months! More patience required there then alas. ‘Day watch’ is due to open in UK cinema’s October 5th.

‘Day watch’ (Official U.S site)

19th April

Teaser poster for "The Tournament"

The teaser poster has surfaced for the British crime thriller “The Tournament,” which we first covered way back on June 14th last year. It’s appearance gives some hope that this movie will finally see the light of day sometime soon.

Here's a description of ‘The Tournament’ from production companies site: "Every ten years in an unsuspecting town, The Tournament takes place. A battle to the death between 40 of the world’s most lethal assassins.

The last man standing receiving the $10,000,000 cash prize and the title of Worlds No1, which itself carries the legendary million dollar a bullet price tag.All fights are monitored 24hrs a day on redirected CCTV cameras and broadcast secretly to a ring of high stake billionaire gamblers.

A gritty, multi stranded action-thriller, The Tournament brings together international killers from every imaginable discipline in a blood-bathed contest to the death. We follow the competition favourites through stories of love, betrayal, revenge and redemption as they finally discover the true value of life" ‘The Tournament’ Trailer (Downloadable AVI)

18th April

"Straightheads" UK Website now live

The UK site for the release of Gillian Anderson’s hard core revenge thriller “Straightheads” is now up and running. The usual goodies reside within, including trailers, clips, and downloads. Another useful section is a listing of all the UK cinemas that will be screening the film. Still no news on U.S. release date, though according to the movies blog Sony pictures (who own the North American rights to the film), recently held a test screening at a Cinema in Burbank CA. Usually an early indication of prep for a launch. 'Straightheads' opens in the UK April 27th.

'Straightheads' (Official site)

16th April

Masters of horror "Dream Cruise" gets Japanese Theatrical release

Masters of horror short “Dream Cruise“ is to get a Japanese Cinema release. A surprise, as the original TV episode which aired in the U.S back in February, only runs for about 60mins. We can only assume they have dug up some deleted scenes to get the films runtime up to a more substantial 85-90 mins.

The flick is directed by Norio Tsuruta, who is probally most well known in the west for his prequel to the ''The Ring' series, 'Ring Ø.' Cast includes Daniel Gillies, Yoshino Kimura & Ryo Ishibashihe. The movie version is released in Japan in May.

Plotline: “Eiji, Yuri and Jack head out on a small yacht to take a break from business. Suspicions begin to arise when it seems Eiji (Ryo Ishibashi) has caught on that Jack (Daniel Gillies) and Yuri (Yoshino Kimura) are having an affair. However, the tables turn when Yuri discloses to Jack that Eiji’s first wife disappeared before they were married. Whether or not Eiji is a killer becomes less of an issue when the group find themselves stranded on the ocean and ghostly apparition appears – hell bent on revenge!” 'Dream Cruise' (Official site)

15th April

Chow Yun Fat's "The Killer" on Digitally Remastered DVD

Before going international, John Woo stunned Hong Kong movie fans with his A Better Tomorrow in 1986, which opened an era of heroic bloodshed movies in Hong Kong cinema, weaving action, melodrama, and strong storylines together in a unique style. Following the success of A Better Tomorrow, Woo created 'The Killer', featuring Chow Yun Fat, as a killer who is not at all cold-blooded.

The film also features veteran actors Danny Lee and Kenneth Tsang as cops, as well as renowned singer Sally Yeh. The chemistry between John Woo and Chow Yun-Fat continues to interweave the theme of brotherly love into an intriguing plot. The Killer illustrates the dilemma of upholding principles, sacrificing friends and betraying one's conscience.

Woo delivers a combination of high impact action spliced in with dramatic slow motion shots, showing his unique cinematic style and flair. This stylish and action-packed film is just as acclaimed as A Better Tomorrow, winning the film the Best Director and Best Film Editing at the 9th Hong Kong Film Awards.

Digitally remastered to offer better quality, the DVD also comes with original and new trailers, photo gallery of film stills, interviews with Sally Yeh and Kenneth Tsang, plus a special feature called "Codes of Bullets IV". 'The Killer' Trailer. Order the region free DVD here.

15th April

“Dark Water” but not as we know it

No, this is no relation to the Japanese horror of the same name. This new offering from Thai B-Horror movie house ‘Right beyond films’ is about dark magic, Murder, and a vengeful water spirit. Cast: Chartchai NgamSun, Chootikarn Jullanan, & Nattha Songsuban.

Synopsis: “When the war ended, Nab, a former member of the Free Thai movement, became a cattle trader which is a dangerous career prone to rustling and robbery. This makes his wife - Chandra very worried. She prays to the shrine of an ancient river spirit for his safety. Little does she know that it is her own safety that is in jeopardy.

Chief Kun and his men kidnap Chandra and Nual, her 2-year-old daughter. After horrible assault they throw her dead body and her still living daughter into the lake to get rid of the evidence. Miraculously, her daughter is saved by the spirit in the lake. The spirit of dead Chandra merges with the lake elemental clinging to the shrine, waiting patiently for a time when she might take her revenge.”

Having looked at a sample of some of Right beyonds previous productions, this seems to be a few degrees above in quality to their usual offering. The film is released in Thailand May 17th. You can check out a trailer (though the pic quality isnt the best!) for the movie from here.

14th April

Kelvin Tong's "Men in White"

Forget the men in black here come the 'Men in white.' the new horror-comedy from Singapore horror film director Kelvin Tong, whose first mainstream full length feature was the excellent chiller “The Maid.”

His latest US$500,000 project - "Men in White" - takes a look at the superstitious side of Singapore society. Revolving around five cowardly and clueless Singaporean ghosts – a badminton player (Shaun Chen), a gangster girl (Ling Lee), a housewife (Alice Lim) and two hip-hop rappers (Ben Yeung & Xavier Teo), ‘Men In White’ tells of their misadventures as they stumble through the bizarre rules of ghost-hood.

Trouble arrives in the form of a photographer ghost (David Aw) who joins the motley crew of disfunctional undead and causes them to wreak havoc on unsuspecting humans. The living fight back and the group find themselves on the run, and embarking unwittingly on a quest to strike fear into hearts of unwary Singaporean's. Currently in post production the movie is due for release in June.

14th April

Upcoming Chinese chiller "Email"

Horror movies from mainland China (the most recent being ‘The Matrimony’) are still quite rare, so it’s always of interest when one turns up. This new chiller is entitled “Email”, is directed by ‘Zhang Fanfan’ and stars ‘Wang Yan.’

The story is based around a Modern day middle aged man, who suddenly starts to receive strange and alarming emails from an old girlfriend ‘Xiao Lin’ who he hasn’t seen in over 30 years.

Even more startling is discovery that his old flame supposedly sending the messages, died nearly a year ago. Below are links to a trailer, and a couple of other cool posters for the film.

'Email' Posters 1 2

'Email' Trailer (Embedded Flash)

13th April

New poster for Korean Horror "The Black House"

A new poster has turned up for director Shin Tae-ra’s new frightener "The Black House." Shins first film was the science fiction adventure ‘Brainwave.’ The new film is based on a Japanese novel of the same name written by the horror Yusuke Kishi.

The story revolves around a string of mysterious deaths, and stars Hwang Jeong-min (You Are My Sunshine). With him in the cast are Kang Shin-il (Public Enemy), Yoo Seon (The Wig, The Uninvited) and Kim Seo-hyeong (Sweet Sex and Love, City of Violence). For more about his first film 'Brainwave,' read our article posted back last year on August 12th.

[Cast details from: Koreanfilm.org]

13th April

'Barbarella' remake is a go

We touched on the news back on Feb 4th that Dino De Laurentiis is trying to get a remake of the 60’s cult classic ‘Barbarella’ off the ground. Now it seems he’s pulled it off!

Producers Dino and Martha De Laurentiis have completed a rights deal that will allow them to remake "Barbarella," and the producers have set "Casino Royale" writers Neal Purvis and Robert Wade to pen the script.

De Laurentiis completed the film rights deal with Julien Forest, the son of Jean-Claude Forest, author of the French comicbook series on which the film was based. Part of the deal calls for the reissue of the first two ‘Barbarella’ books in concert with the feature, along with the publication of material that previously hadn't been translated into English.

In the remake, they apparently plan to make Barbarella a free, modern gal who survives in a futuristic world through her intelligence, fighting skills and sexuality. With the deal struck the pre-production machine will no doubt soon start to roll. The movie is due to open in 2008! [Source]

12th April

Director named for “Death Note” spin off “L”

Hideo Nakata (pic left) has been named as the director to helm "L," a spin off from the huge hit Japanese horror "Death Note," Nippon Television Network announced. Nakata, whose credits include "The Ring 2" and the upcoming "Kaidan" and "The Ring 3," will return to Japan after three years in Hollywood. Nakata said he wanted to make more movies in his home country and that he was taken with the performance of Kenichi Matsuyama in the "Death Note" films and wanted to work with the actor again.

Matsuyama plays the sweets-loving "genius" detective who matches wits and wills with a power-besotted college student able to kill anyone he pleases simply by writing the person's name in a mysterious notebook. "L" will focus on the detective's story before the events of the two "Death Note" pics, which grossed a total of ¥8 billion ($67 million) in Japan alone last year. The shoots will begin in August, and Warner Japan will release the movie in the first half of 2008. [Source: Variety]

12th April

Trailer for Zom com "Zombi Kampung Pisang"

Took a while to find, but in the end good ol Youtube came up with the goods. Films details are posted below on April 7th.

'Zombi Kampung Pisang' Trailer (Youtube)

11th April

Second Poster for 'Fan Bing Bing's' thriller "Sweet Revenge"

Second poster for the upcoming thriller 'Sweet Revenge’ starring Fan Bingbing, Nick Cheung Ka Fai and Anthony Wong. The film marks quite a departure in genre from Fan’s last movie, the Ghost horror ‘The Matrimony.’

Here is a short synopsis from the production company’s site: "A dying girl who has never tasted love. A suicidal lone wolf capable of anything. A perfect husband, who has a bloody past. A loving wife who discovers she is sleeping with her parents’ murderer. A thriller in which fate turns hunger for love into thirst for revenge."

'Sweet Revenge’ Trailer (Youtube)

10th April

Programme announced for 'Udine Far east film Festival'

Those lucky Italians. Andrew Lau and Alan Mak's Hong Kong thriller "Confession of Pain" is to be among the films get its international opening at Italy's Udine Festival of Far East Film. Now in its Ninth year the Fest will open April 20th with the European premiere of the hit Japanese martial arts fantasy "Dororo," with director Akihito Shoita expected to attend.

Other international premieres include the Chinese supernatural horror "The Matrimony," Filipino spy spoof "Agent X44," and Japanese chiller "The Slit-Mouthed Woman" are among other highlights of this major European showcase for Asian film. "The Slit-Mouthed Woman," for which Tartan Films recently bought U.S. rights, is part of Udine's Horror Day sidebar, which also includes Thai helmer Chookiat Sakweerakul's "13 beloved."

For a rundown (and for those not attending, us included, to experience a small twinge of jealousy) on all the festivals screenings, check out their official site here.

10th April

Indonesian horror “Lewat Tengah Malam” aka “After Midnight”

There seems to be a swathe of new Horror movies coming out of the Indonesia recently. And while quantity doesn’t of course guarantee you quality, the trailer for this new offering from helmer ‘Koya Pagayo,’ (director of last years ‘Hantu Jeruk Purut’) seems to show that the Philippine horror movie making is on the up and up.

Synopsis:” Tara, a widow with a young daughter named Alice, live in an small apartment. In that apartment Alice claims she is being terrorised by a female ghost that always appears after midnight, but Tara believes it all to be her imagination. Meanwhile her father who lives in a mental home experiences the same terror. A body discovered stored in a fridge inside the apartment block, starts to reveal the mystery of what is happening." 'After Midnight' (Official site)

9th April

"Love and Honor" smashes four billion yen mark

“Love and Honor” (Bushi no Ichibun), veteran director Yoji Yamada’s picture about the struggles of a blind samurai to come to terms with his condition, has passed the four billion yen ($33.9 million) mark at the Japanese BO, distributor Shochiku announced on Friday.

Released on December 1 in Japan, “Love and Honor” has become the biggest hit of Yamada’s four decade career, including the 48 installments of his iconic Tora-san comedy series. It was also Shochiku’s biggest BO earner in 2006.

Starring Takuya Kimura as the samurai and Rei Dan as his long-suffering wife, the film scooped several awards including 2006 Japan Academy Awards for Dan as Rookie of the Year, Takashi Sasano for Best Supporting Actor, Mutsuo Naganuma for Best Cinematography and Takeshi Nakasu for Best Lighting Director.

[Source]

9th April

Upcoming Thai horror "Sick Nurses"

We are getting news in on an upcoming project from the Thai director duo Thosapol Siriwiwat and Peerapan Laoyont” (“Suicide Me”) who are back with a new horror “Sick Nurses.” The movie is about a group of nurses who get the fright of their lives when they discover that one of their number is actually a ghost. Sold! We are still trying to nail down a synopsis and trailer for the film. In the mean while we have found some photos from the flick, which you can see from the link below. Still in production, the movie is due out in Thailand sometime in June 07.

'Sick Nurses' Stills

8th April

London Frightfest 2007 dates confirmed

The UK's premiere fantasy and horror film festival has confirmed it's 2007 dates and location. The festival is to be held for the third year in the London Odeon West End, Leicester Square between the 23rd and the 27th August. After last years highly successful pre-festival screening of Chris Smith's Severance, on the evening before the festival proper, festival organisers Jones, Rattray, McEvoy and Day have confirmed that this year the opening film will move from it's traditional Friday evening slot to Thursday evening at 7.00 p.m. Ticketing arrangements are still to be finalised, but the screening will be included in the festivals popular value weekend pass. For more info on the event head over to the fests official site here.

7th April

Malaysian Zom com "Zombie Kampung Pisang"

The release date for Malaysian flick “Zombi Kampang Pisang” has finally been announced for April 19th! We first heard about this movie 6 months ago, and as we love a good Zom com we were naturally interested to find out more. But then all went quiet about the production. Now it’s suddenly re-surfaced, and due for release this month. Directed by Mamat Khalid the film stars Awie, AC Mizal, Que Haidar, and Ezlynn.

Synopsis: “The peace and serenity of Kampang Pisang (Banana Village) is shattered one night with the sudden death of Pak Abu. In the confusion that follows, more villagers turn up dead, puzzling and alarming the villagers even more. Upon investigation, the source of the problem seemed to be Pak Menawer’s restaurant, where anyone who ate at the restaurant during the day would turn up dead.

Chaos ensues as no one wants to admit that they’ve been to the shop and the situation worsens with the dead coming back to life in the form of zombies. Locating Pak Menawer is proving to be fruitless and fighting off the zombies is proving to be a chore… and the night is still young! What is to become of Kampung Pisang now? Will local hero Usin be able to save his village and win the heart of Maimon?”

Try as we might we still cannot turn up a trailer. But here is a load of behind the scene pics to keep us going in the mean time. More info when we get it.

7th April

First trailer for "Max Neptune and the Menacing Squid"

The films title alone made it worthy of a mention. “Max Neptune and the Menacing Squid” is described by its creators as “A live action Sci-fi adventure, based on the old 50’s serials such as ‘Flash Gordon’ and Commando Cody."

The evil Dr Agotch has plans to destroy the Atomic space patrol, and only Max Neptune can stop him. The movie stars Curt Clendenin (Max Neptune),Michael Ornelas (Dr. Agotch), Dave Uchansky (Reggie Horton) and Keaton Shyler (Mara Shore).

Watching the trailer you could be forgiven for thinking there’s more than a hint of 80’s Japanese monster movie thrown into the mix as well. This is pure cheesey fun, and look great! The film is currently in post production.

'Max Neptune' (Official Site)

'Max Neptune' (Myspace)

6th April

Indonesian horror “Terowongan Casablanca” aka “Casablanca Tunnel”

“Casablanca” is directed by Nanang Istiabudi and produced by Indika Entertainment. Starring Asha Syara, Ardina Rasti, Nino Fernandez Aldiansyah, Ray Sahetapy, Ki Joko Bodo, and Titi Qadarsih.

Storyline: “Astari (Ardina Rasti) and her boyfriend, Refa (Asha Syara), spend their time together before Refa leaves to study overseas. But before he leaves, Astari finds herself pregnant. Initially, Refa asks Astari to abort the baby but finally he agrees to take some of the responsibility. Astari is unaware of Refa's plan to trick Astari into aborting the baby. When the abortion plan fails, Refa buries both Astari and the baby alive near Casablanca. Astari becomes a vengeful spirit and puts a curse on Refa and all his future generations.”

All good cheery fun then! From the trailer it looks like the film has everything you could want from a good B-horror. Black magic, vengeful spirits, and buckets of blood. The trailer on the movies official site is painfully slow to load, so we have tracked down a far better one which is listed below.

'Terowongan Casablanca' (Official Site)

'Terowongan Casablanca' (Trailer)

6th April

Ridley Scott to Shoot Story of First Chinese Emperor

According to 'CRI' Director Ridley Scott, the genius behind such epics as "Alien" and "Blade Runner", is planning to shoot the story of the first emperor in Chinese history – Qin Shi Huang. In a telephone interview with Beijing Star Daily, the director said he has bought the screenplay for the film, and has invited another power house of modern Chinese cinema, director Zhang Yi-mou “Curse of the Golden Flower” as a collaborator.

Shooting will probably start after the 2008 Olympic Games, an event whose opening and closing ceremonies Zhang, as director in chief, is responsible for. Though never been to China in person, Scott has always wanted to bring the Chinese history onto the big silver screen, and his collection of related materials began years ago. As well as "Qin Shi Huang", he also purchased the script for "Genghis Khan", the life story of the Mongolian warlord.

Scott and Zhang in the same team!! If they get the budget, the mind boggles at how big this production could be.

5th April

"Tales from Earthsea" on DVD!

“Tales from Earthsea” Goro Miyazaki’s animated interpretation of the novels of best selling author Ursula Le Guin, is now available to pre-order on DVD! The film from Studio Ghibli is the first anime film adaptation of any part of the Earthsea series.

Synopsis: ” Something bizarre has come over the land. The kingdom is deteriorating. People are beginning to act strange... What's stranger still is that people are beginning to see dragons, which shouldn't enter the world of humans. Due to all these bizarre events, Ged, a wandering wizard, is investigating the cause. During his journey, he meets Prince Arren, a young distraught teenage boy.

While Arren may look like a shy young teen, he has a severe dark side, which grants him strength, hatred, ruthlessness and has no mercy, especially when it comes to protecting Teru. For the witch Kumo this is a perfect opportunity. She can use the boy's "fears" against the very one who would help him, Ged.”

This is the first release of the film on DVD. It is the Japanese (R2) two disc version, which unusually for a Japanese DVD does have English subtitles. There is a 4 disc special edition due soon, but the rumour is that none of the special features will be subtitled. “Tales from Earthsea” (Official Site)

5th April

Black Xmas Contest

Were running a great Black X-Mas contest where you can win two tickets to a paranormal tour and dinner for two aboard the Queen Mary. To take part, whiz on down to the link below and fill out the form. How easy is that! Contest closes April 30th. Good luck.

Black X-Mas contest

4th April

24Fps Exclusive: Website live for DVD release of Alejandro Jodorowsky’s “El Topo”

Surreal, bizarre, and ultra-violent imagery can all be found in Alejandro Jodorowsky’s “El Topo.” For years only available on dodgy VHS bootleg’s the film is finally to get a long overdue DVD release via Tartan films. ‘El Topo ‘(The Mole) is a 1970 Mexican cult western movie and underground film, directed by and starring Alejandro Jodorowsky.

Well known its bizarre characters and occurrences, use of maimed and dwarf performers, and heavy doses of Christian symbolism and Eastern philosophy, the film is about the eponymous character - a violent, black-clad gunfighter - and his quest for enlightenment.

“Synopsis:” The gunfighter El Topo and his young son ride through a desert to a village, whose inhabitants have been massacred. Bandits are nearby, torturing and killing the survivors. El Topo rescues a woman (Mara), who leads him on a mission defeat the four master gunmen of the desert. Leaving his son with monks, El Topo and Mara complete the mission, accompanied by a mysterious woman in black.

The women leave El Topo wounded in the desert, where he is found by a clan of deformed people who take him to the remote cavern where they live. Awakening years later, he goes with a dwarf woman to a nearby town, promising to dig a tunnel through which the cave-dwellers can escape. They find the town run by a vicious sheriff and home to a bizarre religious cult. El Topo's son, now a man, is a monk in the town. The completion of the tunnel leads El Topo, the townspeople, and the cave-dwellers to a bloody and tragic end.”

What the hell it all means isn't always exactly clear, but you won't forget it! “El Topo” hits the DVD shelves on May 1st (R1) May 14th (R2). 'El Topo' (Official DVD Site)

4th April

"Alone" Tops the Thai Box Office

According to 'Variety' "Alone," one of the most anticipated Thai horror movie of the year, delivered solid Box office earnings of Bt35 million ($1.09 million) during its first weekend in Bangkok. This release heralds a return to near normal film openings, as the massively popular "Legend of King Naresuan" has virtually blocked all new releases in January and February.

"Alone" is the flagship movie for the GTH studio this year and was initially expected by local film pundits to take at least Bt100 million ($2.85 million) in Bangkok. Although Ghost movies are a pretty reliable genre for investors in Thailand , a hit is not always guaranteed. R.S. Films released (the very weak horror comedy) "Pee Mai Jim Fan" in mid-March and it grossed only Bt20 million ($625,000). "It's difficult for us when so many films, Thai and international, opened simultaneously after 'Naresuan'," said an R.S Film's rep.

Next up on our own 24fps most anticipated Thai Horror movie list are the horror flicks "The haunted Drum," and another upcoming GTH Studio release "Body".

3rd April

Tarantino to Remake Classic Chinese Kungfu Movie

Quentin Tarantino, announced on Saturday in America that his next movie will be a Chinese Kungfu story. The web portal Sina.com reports that Tarantino had signed an agreement with Hong Kong's Shaw Brothers a few years ago, appointing him to remake some of the company's movies. But it is thought that he has had to change the plots completely. The director himself has said he expects to produce abstractions of the storylines from "One-armed Swordsman" or "Dubei Dao" and "The 36th Chamber of Shaolin" or "Shaolin 36 Fang."

Tarantino admits that he has watched many of the Shaw Brothers' classic Kungfu movies, especially enjoying such works as the "One-armed Swordsman." However, the director says that he would add some elements of his own and also something modern into his version. He was confident that his Kungfu story would be accepted by the western audiences, since films like the Asian-themed "Kill Bill" proved commercially successful. In line with the content, Tarantino will assemble Chinese actors to form the cast, but dialog will be in English. [Source:CRI]

2nd April

"Grindhouse" heads to Korea

The Weinstein Co. has sold Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez's "Grindhouse" to South Korean distributor Sponge, the latter's biggest acquisition ever. The deal was apparently struck at the recent FilmMart in Hong Kong and they signed
on the dotted line a week later.

Other 'Sponge' acquisitions include "Factory Girl" from Myriad Pictures and Japanese pic "Yellow Tears" from Xanadeux. 'Sponge' has sparked a cult following in South Korea for the work of "Yellow Tears" director Inudou Isshin by releasing his earlier films "Josee, the Tiger and the Fish" and "Maison de Himiko."

[Source: Variety]

2nd April

''The King & the Clown'' Wins award at French Movie Festival

More proof of the Korean film industry's growing presence in the international arena, the domestic blockbuster ''The King and the Clown'' by director Lee Junik has just won an award at the 9th Deauville Asian Film Festival in France.

The movie, depicting the relationship between two male clowns during the Joseon Dynasty, received a thumbs-up from the judges at the French film gala this past weekend.

Also Director Lee Yoonki's ''A Very Special Guest'' won the movie critics' award. Since its launch in 1999, the Deauville festival has become one of the biggest Asian film festivals in Europe.

'Deauville Film Festival' (Official Site)

1st April

Poster & teaser trail for Pakistan's first ever Zombie horror "Hells ground"

We first covered news on this most unusual of co-productions back in February. Now the Myspace page for the Zombie horror “Hells Ground” has been updated with a brand spanking new teaser trail, and poster for the film. Made between U.K. - based video label Mondo Macabro and Pakistani production company Bubonic Films, "Zibahkhana" aka "Hells Ground " is directed by first-timer Omar Khan.

Producer is Pete Tombs, an expert on Asian horror whose Mondo Macabro label has released such titles as Indonesia's "Lady Terminator." The film combines a cast of young unknowns with Pakistan film vets to tell the tale of a gang of teens heading to a pop concert whose path is blocked by a protest against polluted drinking water. Cutting around them on a little-used country road, they run afoul of a family of Zombie psychopaths who slaughter them with relish.

“Hells Ground” is to have its North American premiere at the Philadelphia Film Festival on April 6th.