Film - August 07

31st August

'Invisible Target' now on DVD

Director Benny Chan’s fantastic Cop action pic ‘Invisible Target,’ is about to be released on DVD with English subtitles. The movie stars Nicholas Tse, Jaycee Chan, Shawn Yue, Andy On & Wu Jing.

Synopsis: “Loose cannon cop Chan Chun is perpetually on the edge, having lost his fiancée when she was killed during an armored car heist. Six months later, Chan finally gets a lead on the perps, a gang of vicious Mainland thieves. The thieves are looking for the mysterious person (or the "invisible target") who masterminded the original heist, and then took the money and betrayed their gang - and they're willing to take down as many cops as they need to gain their revenge.

Chan wants them caught, but he's not the only one out for justice; the tough and smartly-dressed Inspector Fong Yik Wei (Shawn Yue) also wants a piece of the action, and rookie cop Wai King Ho (Jaycee Chan) suspects that the thieves may have something to do with his brother, a missing undercover cop. Individually, the three cops can't stop these guys, but through teamwork, righteous determination, and plenty of head-busting, flying-fists action, they just might stand a chance.”

Invisible Target (Official Site)

Order the DVD here

30th August

New trailer for ‘Muay Thai Chaiya’

For its upcoming release in Singapore, a new trailer is up for Thai Kick boxing actioner ‘Muay Thai Chaiya.’ Much of the footage is the same as the Thai version, but there are some new additional snippets of bone crunching action, that can only leave you thinking “that’s gotta hurt”. ‘Muay Thai’ opens in Thailand today.

New trailer (Youtube)

Muay Thai Chaiya (Official Site)

30th August

Teaser poster and synopsis for 'Antoo Fighter'

Camper than a row of tents, upcoming Malaysian horror comedy 'Antoo fighter' has the looks of the Power Rangers gone more than a little wrong, but great cheesy fun no less. Directed by Azizi Chunk it follows the adventures of super heroes the 'Antoo fighters,' as they fight to save the world from evil.

Synopsis; "A group of ghostly creatures from the past led by Drakulat Van Listerooy returns to the present time terrorizing and dominating the town after they had escaped from a group sworn to fight against evil spirits in the past. Drakulat and his sidekicks journey to Kuala Lumpur and conquered the KL Tower and made it their headquarters. There they began to destroy the city till it brought the whole nation to a dangerous state.

The main objective of Drakulat is actually to free Lord Sharon, satan's spawn, so they could conquer and destroy the whole world together. In order to make it all happen he needs to locate the chosen girl, Delyla, who carries the blood line of having extraordinary powers and becoming the perfect sacrificial victim to Lord Sharon and freeing him into the world. The presence of Drakulat's clan is felt by Pak Din (one of the last Antoo fighters in the late 50's). Antoo fighter is a top secret group consisting of 5 chosen people on earth to protect the world from evil spirits every 60 years."

Via the guys over at twitch, you can check out a teaser trail for the film. We have also tracked down the movies official site, but as yet its just a holding page. 'Antoo fighter' opens in Malaysia in the new year.

30th August

Opening and closing films of PIFF 2007 announced

Korea's Pusan Film Fest (PIFF) have announced its opening and closing films. The festival will open with Feng Xiaogang's much-anticipated ‘Assembly,’ and close with Evangelion 1.0: You Are (Not) Alone, the Japanimation by Hideaki Anno & Kazuya Tsurumaki.

‘Assembly’ is the newest film of Feng Xiaogang who gained nation-wide fame in China after making such films as The Banquet and A World Without Thieves. Co-produced by China's Huayi Brothers Media & Co. Ltd. and Korea's MK Pictures, the film is a war-epic; following the human drama of a soldier who devotes his entire life to redeeming the honor of his fellow soldiers who are declared missing in action.

The closing film, ‘Evangelion 1.0: You Are (Not) Alone’ is the theater adaptation of the 1995 TV animation series, Neon Genesis Evangelion that enjoys popularity even today. 10 years after Evangelion's first theatrical release, the title will have a totally new ending and new interpretation. ‘Evangelion 1.0’ will be revealed in Japan on September 1st 2007, and will international premiere at PIFF.

29th August

'Midnight Eagle' to have world premiere in L.A.

Izuru Narushima's action thriller ‘Midnight Eagle,’ about a top secret American stealth bomber that goes missing carrying a lethal experimental warhead, will have its world premiere in Los Angeles. The screening takes place on October 2, and is part of a huge publicity campaign by Shochiku that also has backing from Universal Pictures. Aside from the cast, a 200-strong audience from Japan will attend the premiere.

This is an unusual move for a Japanese distributor, but apparently Shochiku is hoping the campaign will boost sales for the movie as it’s due to appear at the American Film Market in October. ‘Eagle’ will premiere in Japan at the Tokyo Film Festival later in October. It has also been announced that the theatrical release has been advanced from a December date to November 23. [Source:Tokyograph]

Midnight Eagle website

28th August

Update: Trailer for Thai horror 'Ghost Mother'

The first trailer has appeared for the upcoming horror 'Ghost Mother' via the guys over at 'Thaicinema.org.' For more info on the story, check out the post back on August 18th.

Ghost Mother Trailer

27th August

Ataru Oikawa's 'Apartment 1303' on R1 DVD October 23rd

Japanese horror ‘Apartment 1303’ is now up to pre order on DVD. Directed by Ataru Oikawa (Tomie: Beginning) the film is based and on an original novel by Kei Oishi (The Last Supper). Cinematographer for the film was Tokusho Kikumura who also worked on The Grudge, and The Grudge 2.

Synopsis:” When Yuka, a young woman, moves into this beautiful Apartment, she cannot believe her good fortune, however as she unpacks the moving boxes she feels as if someone is there in the room. Yuka shrugs off this feeling knowing her boyfriend will soon be there. As her boyfriend approaches the building he passes a mother and young daughter who live in Apartment 1302. The little girl grabs his arm and points up to the top floor of the building. There he sees Yuka screaming as she comes over the edge of the balcony and falls! In horror he hears the thud of his girlfriend hitting the ground. Something terrible is in Apartment 1303.”

Apartment 1303 site

Pre-order the DVD here

27th August

Keanu Reeves to star in remake of 'The Day the Earth Stood Still'

Keanu Reeves is set to star in "The Day the Earth Stood Still," the re-imagining of the 1951 Robert Wise - directed sci-fi classic.Yes you read correctly, Keanu Reeves. He apparently committed over the weekend to play Klaatu, the humanoid alien who arrives on Earth accompanied by an indestructible, heavily armed robot and a warning to world leaders that their continued aggression will lead to annihilation by species watching from afar.

Erwin Stoff is producing, with Scott Derrickson ("Exorcism of Emily Rose") directing from a script by David Scarpa. Reeves commitment puts the picture on track for a late autumn or early 2008 production start. The discussion as to whether or not this seminal classic should ever have been remade at all, to one side. We have to admit to being quite stunned by the choice of Reeves as the lead. If you listen quietly, you can perhaps hear the barely perceptible sound of 1000s of classic Sci-Fi fans mouths dropping open in horror at the news.

[Source:Variety]

26th August

First pics from Rigoberto Castañeda's Blackout

A first few stills have surfaced for Mexican director Rigoberto Castañeda's new English language thriller ‘Blackout.’ Castañeda was also the man behind last years excellent Mexican/Spanish horror co-production ‘Kilometro 31.’ The screenplay for ‘Blackout’ was written by Ed Dougherty (based on the novel by Gianluca Morozzi), and stars Amber Tamblyn, Aidan Gillen and Armie Hammer.

Synopsis: “Claudia is a young woman in a hurry to return to the hospital bedside of her dying grandmother. Tommy is a young punk on his way to elope with his girlfriend Francesca and rescue her from the physical abuse by her drunken father. Karl is a husband and father with guilty secrets that must be erased from his apartment before his wife and daughter get there. All three, in other words, have an urgent need to be somewhere else. But instead they are trapped in an elevator on a holiday weekend, and the building is deserted.”

Stills 1 2 3 4

25th August

New poster for Ghengis Khan epic Mongol

Another new poster for the Russian Genghis Khan epic 'Mongol' has appeared. Directed Sergei Bodrov, the film stars Japanese actor Tadanobu Asano. The movie is also due to open in the States next year, though when is exactly anyones guess. U.S. distributors for the film (Picturehouse) keep changing the release date. 'Mongol' opens in Russia, Sept 21st.

Mongol Official Site

Mongol Trailer

25th August

Website and synopsis for 'The House'

The official site for Monthon Arayangkoon’s new rather graphic horror ‘The House’ is now live, and we have also finally been able to track down a (short but it pretty much gives you the gist) synopsis for the film:

"Inspired by a true story of three horrible murders that happen to three women in different times. The film tells the story of Chalinee, a girl who becomes obessed at finding the truth behind the past cruel murders. Finally, it leads her to a house where the crimes started. Something haunts the house and it will prove to be the most most terrible experience of her life."

Head on over to the site. Several new teaser trailers lurk within.

The House (Official Site)

24th August

British Film Forever: Magic, Murder and Monsters

Just a quick reminder to our UK readers that tomorrow night is horror night with the fifth installment of the seven-part series, ‘British Film Forever.’ Programme Five turns its attention to films that have made us scream and howl over the years - occasionally with laughter as well as fright.

With such a rich gothic literary tradition it was somehow inevitable that British film makers would make our horror the envy of the world.From Hammer to Harry Potter, from Plague of the Zombies to Shaun of the Dead, Magic, Murder and Monsters traces the evolution of the British horror and fantasy film, taking in classics like The Curse of Frankenstein, Dracula, The Innocents, Repulsion, Witchfinder General, The Wicker Man and Brazil.

Featuring original interviews with Sir Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, Simon Pegg, Mark Gatiss, Terry Gilliam, Rupert Grint and John Landis - as well as original horror stars and film makers like Ingrid Pitt, Barbara Shelley, Jimmy Sangster and Pete Walker. The prog stars at 9.15pm, on BBC2.

23rd August

Website fully live for ‘Muay Thai Chaiya’

The site for the Thai kick boxing action pic ‘Muay Thai Chaiya' has had some major updates. Another trailer with some new footage is not amongst them alas, so we shall have to console ourselves with the new stills gallery and other goodies.

‘Muay Thai Chaiya' Official Site

22nd August

War hits the UK

'War' (aka“Rogue”) is set to take on the UK next month, opening on September 28th. Along with the announcement, the films PR company also sent along the very cool (in an oh so minimalist mono-chrome kinda way) new UK theatrical poster. ‘War’ is directed by Philip G. Atwell from a script by Lee Anthony Smith and Gregory J. Bradley. Jet Li and Jason Statham head the cast as two adversaries set on a violent collision course in the Asian mob underground.

Synopsis: “After his partner is brutally murdered by the infamous assassin Rogue (Jet Li), FBI agent Jack Crawford (Jason Statham) vows to find the elusive killer and personally avenge his partner's death. But Rogue proves untraceable until three years later when he resurfaces to ignite a bloody turf war between Chinese mob leader Chang (John Lone) and Japanese Yakuza boss Shiro (Ryo Ishibashi). Eager to capture Rogue once and for all, Crawford leads his team of crime specialists headlong into the conflict. But Crawford's thirst for vengeance jeopardizes his professional judgment, and as the violence escalates, Crawford finally comes face to face with his enemy to discover that nothing about Rogue or his plan is quite what it seems.” War official site

22nd August

'The Day of the Triffid's' set for a new TV remake

'The Day of the Triffid's' is set to be remade as fast paced TV mini series with a contemporary and highly topical take on John Wyndham's most famous novel. What makes the news all the more interesting is whose writing the screenplay. The script will be penned by Patrick Harbinson, the long time (Emmy award nominated) writer, on such hit TV shows as ER & Law & Order.

It's 2011 and man has created a substitute for fossil fuel by breeding a highly dangerous crop of plants upon which they rely for fuel and energy. When the human race is threatened by a near fatal meteor shower, the event also has a devastating effect on the Triffids - the creatures mutate and turn against mankind to take over the world. A select few fight to save themselves in what could be the last days of humankind.

Leading independent production house Powercorp are fronting the project. No word yet as to who will star. The only other info we've been able to find for the series, is a very small pic of the teaser poster. Link below.

Triffid's teaser

22nd August

'The Evil Twin' now available to order on DVD

In South Korea, summer is the season for horror films, and the first to hit theaters in 2007 was Kim Ji Hwan's directorial debut, 'The Evil Twin.' A rare entry into the historical horror genre, this Joseon period horror offers a chilling interpretation of the classic Cinderella story of Kongji and Patzzi. Actress Park Shin Hye from Palace S and Trees in Heaven takes on her first leading film role, to capture the separate personalities of her two characters. Playing both the innocent and the evil with equal convince. The film co-stars Jae Hee (3-iron) and Yang Geum Suk.

Ten years ago, twin sisters So Yeon and Hyo Jin (Park Shin Hye) both fell into a river, claiming the life of Hyo Jin and leaving So Yeon comatose. Ten years later, So Yeon finally wakes up. Though she has lost her memory, she is troubled by what she can't remember, and often shows characteristics similar to her dead sister. As she recovers, the past slowly returns - the circumstances of the accident, the sisters' jealous rivalry over So Yeon's husband-to-be Hyun Sik (Jae Hee) - and a series of mysterious murders befalls the village.

Evil Twin website

Order the DVD here

21st August

New poster for Russian slasher Trackman

Another poster for Igor Shavlak's 'Trackman' has just been added to the website. It pretty much does what it says on the tin, but unlike its predecessor this one seems to have a lower count in the disembodied eyeball dept.

Synopsis: “Three robbers commit raid on a bank. Thinking they have the ideal escape route from the crime they retreat into the abandoned tunnels of the Moscow subway. In the course of a robbery 3 hostages were taken and they too are dragged into the depths of the tunnels. From that moment they fall into the domain of the ‘Trackman.’ Methodically he hunts them down, stripping them of their eyes.“

Trackman site

Trackman Trailer

20th August

'Vexille' opening in 129 countries, and rising

Fumihiko Sori's visually stunning CG film "Vexille" is going international. Big time. The movie had already been picked up for release in 75 countries before its world premiere at this year's Locarno Film Festival, but now apparently that number has so far increased to 129.

The Story: "The year is 2077 - 10 years has passed since Japan had decided to leave the United Nations to go into isolation. They have completely blocked the islands with an ultra magnetic field which prevents anyone to see what is going inside. This was a result to opposing to a treaty which UN has passed, preventing the development of all bio and robot technology which has evolved drastically and has become a threat to the human beings. When Japan finally begins to move, the US government sends in a special force team SWORD, lead by a female commander Vexille, to find out what is really happening inside the country".

"Vexille" opened in Japan on Saturday, and is next set to take Hong Kong by storm in September. If you haven't already seen what all the fuss is about, you can check out the trailers, and 10 minutes of the film over on Youtube. [Source]

Vexille trailers (English Subtitled)

Vexille Preview (10 mins)

19th August

Concept poster & website for Ivan Zuccon's 'Colour from the Dark'

The first teaser poster and info is out for Italian director Ivan Zuccon’s horror ‘Colour from the Dark.’ Zuccon is currently one of the few shining lights in Italian horror movie making, with previous works including ‘The Shunned House,’ and ‘Bad Brains.’ Based on the classic H.P. Lovecraft short story "The Colour out of Space," ‘Colour from the Dark’ is the follow-up to Ivan's most recent shock horror ‘NyMpha.’

Synopsis: "Italy, in the 1940s. With WWII raging, Pietro and Lucia live on an isolated farm with Alice, Lucia's younger sister. Alice is 15 years old and suffers from severe mental problems. Poor farmers, they live tilling the soil. Pietro is a good worker and a strong man who, unlike his three brothers, is not at war because of a deformed knee. Lucia is a beautiful and reserved woman dedicated to her family. Their life is peaceful and good.

One day, while drawing water from the well, Pietro and Alice accidentally free something from the Earth's womb. A strange and alien color flashes underwater, at the well's bottom, then disappears. From that moment on, strange events start happening all around the farm, and by night the surrounding vegetation glitters with a sinister glow. The colour soon takes hold of the whole farm, and dwelling inside Pietro and his family's minds, it brings them into its sick world of pain, blood and death."

Intriguing stuff. But with a source material as rich as Lovecraft could it be anything but. There's no trailer for the film as yet. There is however a ton of behind the scenes pics and commentary in the production diaries, on the official site. Movie hits the big screen in May 08.

Colour from the Dark (Official Site)

Colour from the Dark (Myspace page)

18th August

New one sheets for Thai horror 'Ghost Mother'

We first reported on the Thai horror 'Ghost Mother' waaaay back in November of last year. Now out of the blue two new great looking posters have arrived. The movie is currently in post production. Here's a recap of the story:

"When her brother suddenly dies of unknown causes, Nuntha has to care for her 3 nieces and nephews that her brother had left behind. To earn money to support the children Nuntha sells soya milk doughnuts in the morning. It is an old family recipe handed down to her from her mother.

She works hard and with love for her nieces and nephews. When Nuntha discovers that Chai, her dead brother had worked as undercover agent to gather evidence on powerful criminals she was murdered as well. Nuntha, even after death still worries about her 3 nieces and nephews and how will they survive on their own, so she continues to care for them as a ghost.

When Police Colonel Sumet, Chai’s superior officer finds out that one of his agents had peculiarly died, he starts an investigation. He was astonished to find that the one raising these children is actually a ghost of their aunt Nuntha."

New Posters 1 2

18th August

U.S. site for Juan Antonio Bayona's 'The Orphanage'

The U.S. official site is up for the Guillermo del Toro produced frightener 'El Orfanato’ aka ‘The Orphanage.’ It’s currently only a holding page, but one to add to your favorites list if your a fan of great foreign horror films. There's a while to wait to see it though, as the release isn't until December 28th. In the mean time, below is a link to a new Hi-Def version of the teaser trailer to give you a flavor of things to come.

Teaser trailer

U.S. website

17th August

Behind the scenes trailer & stills for Finnish horror 'Stone's War'

The first stills and behind the scenes footage have arrived for the Finnish/U.S. zombie horror ‘Stones War.’ Previously titled ‘War of the Dead,’ the film was written and directed by acclaimed Finnish director Marko Makilaakso.

Synopsis: "In the frozen arctic forests, Captain Martin Stone is leading a finely-trained, elite platoon of American and Finnish soldiers as they attack an enemy bunker. Underestimating the enemy’s strength, they are quickly beaten back into the forest. As they try to regroup, they are suddenly attacked by the same soldiers they had just killed a few minutes earlier. Forced to flee deeper into Russian territory, they discover one of the most terrifying secrets of World War II and realize they have woken a far more deadly enemy. Death is no longer the final frontier."

To check out all the pics from the film you will need to head over to the movies Myspace page. Meanwhile the behind the scenes trailer footage can be found over at Youtube. Finally for those that missed it first time around, here is original pre production promotional trailer, from back when it was still called ‘War of the Dead.’ All of them full of Zombie goodness. Still in post production the film is tipped for release, March 2008.

16th August

‘Hard Candy’ Director to helm Gaiman’s ‘Neverwhere’

Well well good news, it looks like Neil Gaiman’s ‘Neverwhere’ is set to become a motion picture, with David Slade (Hard Candy, 30 Days of Night) directing. For those of you not up on your British fantasy this is a novel Gaiman wrote after writing the same story as a script for a BBC mini-series in 1996.

The story of ‘Neverwhere’ revolves around an ordinary guy Richard Mayhew, whose life in London is quite uneventful until one day a girl named Door falls, injured, across his path. The next thing he knows, his life is gone and he's pulled into the fantastical world of London Below. Pursued by the murderous hitmen Croup and Vandemar, Door and Richard with the help of Hunter and the Marquis de Carabas, attempt to find the Angel Islington, who knows the secret behind the murder of Door's family, and possibly a way for Richard to go home.

Gaiman told MTV that this new version will be based on a script he wrote, based on the novel, in 2000. If it goes (and fingers crossed it does) ahead, we can hope that it will look a lot better than the BBC version, which while it had moments of brilliance, was hampered by a low budget. [Source: MTV]

15th August

'Gegege no Kitaro' now up for pre-order on DVD

Mizuki Shigeru's manga series Gegege no Kitaro has seen numerous small and big screen adaptations since the 1960s. Now the latest incarnation of Kitaro is available to pre-order on English subtitled DVD. Directed by Motoki Katsuhide (Drugstore Girl), Gegege is set in a world populated beasts called yokai, demons with supernatural powers.

Yokai come in many shapes and forms and the film brings them to life in a fusion of CG, animation, and live-action, with everything from cat spirits to walking eyeballs roaming through ancient forests and modern Japan. The special effects were by Centro Digital Pictures, whose previous work includes Kung Fu Hustle.

Half-human and half-yokai, one-eyed Kitaro (Wentz Eiji) lives in Gegege Forest with his bickering friends and his eyeball father, and he dedicates his time to maintaining peace between humans and yokai. When a magical ball of power ends up in the wrong hands, Kitaro must recover it or both worlds could fall into grave danger.

Gegege website

Gegege trailer

Pre-order the DVD here

14th August

Poster and extended trailer for David Cronenberg's 'Eastern Promises'

As the U.S. opening (Sept 14th) date for David Cronenburgs London set crime thriller 'Eastern Promises' draws near, the marketeers are swinging into action with some new content for the films release. The theatrical poster and an extended trailer have just appeared online, and my they both look very good.

The plot centres on the mysterious and ruthless Nikolai (Viggo Mortensen), who is tied to one of London's most notorious Russian crime families. A chain of events is set in motion when he crosses paths with Anna (Naomi Watts), an innocent midwife, trying to right a wrong she accidentally uncovers potential evidence against the crime family, which starts harrowing chain of murder, deceit, and retribution.

You can check out the trailer, and a few new stills, from the link below.

Extended trailer

14th August

Update on: 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age'

The UK site is now online for 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age. The main bonus to it over the U.S one, is a huge XL version of the trailer and a full worldwide list of the films release dates.

The Golden Age UK site

13th August

U.S. theatrical release for Chris Gorak's 'Right at your Door'

Well, a limited release. Right at Your Door is Chris Gorak's writing and directing debut. Previously he was production designer on ‘Lords of Dogtown,’ ‘Blade Trinity,’ ‘The Clearing,’ and the miniseries ‘Taken.’ First screened at the Sundance film festival in January last year ‘Right at your Door’ offers a gritty perspective on the world’s insecurity in the post-9/11 era.

Synopsis: "After multiple dirty bombs are detonated, spreading deadly toxic ash across Los Angeles, Brad (Rory Cochrane) inadvertently quarantines his wife, Lexi (Mary McCormack) outside their new home by safely sealing himself inside. With the city under siege and martial law in affect, Brad and Lexi struggle to survive with few supplies, limited time and no information—all the while separated by thin doors and thinner sheets of plastic. When "help" finally does arrive, it appears to be anything but".

We saw the film last year, and it’s a great little low/med budget thriller, with some good performances and plot twists thrown in. Produced by Thousand Words pictures, the movie opens August 24th. 'Right at your Door' (Official Site)

12th August

Posters aplenty for Thai horror 'The House'

Further to our post on August 3rd, the guys at Deknang have spotted a swathe of new posters for Monthon Arayangkoon’s upcoming horror ‘The House.’ Links below. Viewer discretion advised.

‘The House’ Poster 1 2 3 4

11th August

'Paprika' released on R2 DVD

Satoshi Kon's (‘Paranoia Agent’ ‘Perfect Blue’) acclaimed Anime 'Paprika' is released (before most other countries) on DVD in the UK next month. A small consolation perhaps, after the woeful lack of even a limited theatrical release there.

Based on Yasutaka Tsutsui's 1993 novel, Paprika is the story of a female research psychologist involved in a project to develop a device that will permit therapists to help patients by entering their dreams. Although this device could change the world of psychotherapy, in the wrong hands the machine could be devastating, allowing the user to completely annihilate the dreamer's personality while they are asleep.

Still no word on a R1 U.S. release date. So for those of you stateside itching to see it, perhaps its time to invest in that multi region DVD player you've been promising yourself. The disc is English subtitled, features an anamorphic widescreen transfer, Dolby Digital 5.1 audio + filmmaker commentary. Paprika hits UK shelves September 24th. Paprika website

10th August

Teaser trailer for Turkish horror ‘Musallat (Haunted)’

A first teaser trailer has appeared on the official site for Turkish horror “Musallat" aka (Haunted). Both written and directed by Alper Mestçi, the movie stars Burak Özçivit, Bigkem Karavus and Kurtulus Sakiragaoglu.

The film is about characters Suat and Nurcan, who’s lives are torn apart when they begin to be haunted by terrifying supernatural creatures. It's a brief glimpse, but colour us impressed from what we've seen so far. Currently in post production “Musallat" opens in Turkey Nov 16th.

'Musallat' (Official site)

10th August

Japanese site goes live for 'Catacombs'

To find an official site for David Elliot & Tomm Coker’s horror we’ve had to go to Japan of all places. An added plus though, is a new version of the trailer lurks within. ‘Catacombs,’ stars Shannyn Sossamon and Alecia Moore aka Pink.

Synopsis: On her first trip to Paris, Victoria hits a party in the city's Catacombs, the 200-mile labyrinth of limestone tunnels under the city that's lined with the remains of 7 million people. Separated from her friends, lost in the darkness, she becomes convinced that someone or something is chasing her.

Though she does gets a main credit, you may, or may not be relieved to know that Alecia (Pink) Moore’s role in the films proceedings actually appears to be quite minimal. In fact she barely appears in either of the trailers we’ve seen............... Still no news on a release date in the U.S. Japan on the other hand get to see the film from October 6th.

Catacombs Japanese site

9th August

Update: A release date for Malaysian horror 'Susuk'?

We first reported on the Malay horror ‘Susuk’ very nearly a year ago. Then all went quiet. Now, not so much a date has been announced, more like a season. Production company Grand Brilliance have updated the status of this long awaited horror to “1st Quarter 2008.” Not exactly nailing a date down are they, but it’s a move in the right direction. Here's the gen on the film.

Synopsis and introduction from the official sites Intro:Su·suk (noun) The forbidden practice of inserting and embedding foreign objects such as gold, silver, and diamonds under a person's skin in order to increase the person's allure. The wearer will have to respect a few taboos for this magical spell to work, failing which the consequences will be dire.

Synopsis: "Beauty has a price. Soraya is a young trainee nurse who is starting to feel disaffected by her life. A chance introduction to the world of glamour piques her earlier ambition to be a star. She does not succeed at first, but she is told that the forbidden practice of susuk can help. She has to make a choice whether to stay the way she is, or cross the line... Meanwhile, Suzana is a prominent diva with an air of mystery.

She has long been a practitioner of the black arts due to her use of the extreme susuk keramat. Every time she violates a taboo, a human life is required. We follow the eventful lives of these two women until we get to the true secret of this dreaded charm". 'Susuk' (Official site)

8th August

Jackie Chan to Direct again in "Armor of God III"

Chinese action film legend Jackie Chan will write, direct and star in the third episode of "Armor of God" series, ten years after his directorial debut in the first "Armor." Chan released the news when promoting his latest work "Rush Hour 3," which came out in theaters in the United States on August 3. The third "Armor" will be of a complete classical Jackie Chan style, says Frankie Chan, executive director of the film, according to the Beijing News.The film revolves around the Kung Fu star fighting against the evil power in a worldwide chase for a Chinese treasure. In addition to making it another action blockbuster, the film is to shed more light on the inner feelings of the figures. Shooting is anticipated to start next April, after Jackie Chan finishes acting in Hong Kong director Tung-Shing Yee's "Shinjuku Incident."

[Source:CRI]

8th August

'The Victim' gets R1 DVD release

We extensively covered last years hit Thai horror 'The Victim,' now great news, its set to get a region 1 DVD release through Tartan video on September 18th. A horror with a good twist, the story revolves around an aspiring actress is asked by the police to help them solve a murder case by portraying the victim who was a popular beauty queen. But each time she reenacts the part, she experiences the victim’s terror and sufferings at the hands of her tormenters. This draws her into trying to unlock the mystery behind the tragic death, but the closer she gets to the truth, the greater the danger to her own life…

The Victim website

Pre-order the DVD here

7th August

Website live for Kyle Rankin's horror: 'Infestation'

The website is live for director Kyle Rankin's indy comedy horror 'Infestation.’ Described as "28 Days Later" meets "Shaun of the Dead," "Infestation" follows a slacker who awakes to find that the world has been taken over by giant alien insects.

The story so far: “Our hero, Cooper, awakes to find himself nauseous, weak and covered in webbing, hanging from the ceiling of an office where, just minutes ago, he started his new job. As he struggles out of his slimy prison he comes face to face with his opponent - a grotesque, powerful and very angry bug. All 3 ft of it. And so begins a hideous, nail-biting, all-action adventure to find a safe haven while constantly outwitting an infestation of monstrous proportions. As Cooper embarks on his journey, he befriends a ragtag group of survivors including Sara, a feisty attractive female. Although the situation is dire, Cooper can't help himself from trying to solve his dating problem while trying to save his life. Will they make it to safety before they are picked off ? And what other surprises are in store for our unlikely heroes?”

The film will be released through Icon Productions in the new year. So if you like the sound of giant alien insects invading (and who doesn’t) the Earth, then you can zip over to the official site to catch a rather nuts teaser trailer. 'Infestation’ (Official Site)

6th August

UK theatrical release date for Black Sheep

The UK theatrical release date for horror comedy 'Black Sheep' has finally been annouced. The fluffy, mutant, bundles of the blood splattered joy hit UK cinemas from October 12th. The film from writer/ director Jonathan King, deals with an experiment in genetic engineering being conducted on a sheep station that goes horribly wrong, turning the loveable Lambs into killers that crave human blood. There is a link below to the official UK web site, where you can catch the trailer of the blood thirsty balls of Wool in action.

Black Sheep UK site

5th August

Black magic and Voodoo in Indian horror 'Ho Satka Hai'

Indian horror films are still quite a rarity, so even though its been out for a while we thought this one worth a mention. ‘Ho Satka Hai’ was special effect expert Wilson Louis's first film as a director, and was billed as India's first film on black magic and Voodoo. 'Ho Sakta hai’ starred Victor Banerji, Khalid Siddique, Mukesh Tiwari and was apparently shot on a shoestring budget in a record span of 28 days. It’s also said to have been so successful it made a substantial profit for its producer, Ashok Kotwani, even before its release.

Synopsis: ”Dr.Mohan (Khalid) is a medical student studying in America who rushes to India to meet is old grand-father (Victor Banerjee) who stays in a small village called Khetwadi. On reaching there, he learns that his elder brother and sister-in-law are missing and his nephew Tanya is not looking 'normal'. Something is strange about him and Mohan soon finds out that things around him are turning ugly. Then there is Parvati who practices black magic and is hell-bent on capturing their palatial house, and not only that she has cast a spell on Tanya, who is at her mercy. Mohan is forced to believe in all these evil omens and must now fight it off if he has to save his people. And if there's a problem there's a solution and solution comes in the form of Kushaba Patil, a saintly man in the village who tells Mohan about the fifteenth door and that the door holds the key, the answer to all the problems."

'Ho Sakta hai’ Trailers

4th August

'Carved' aka 'The Slit Mouthed Woman' on R1 DVD

Kôji Shiraishi's "Carved" a.k.a. "The Slit-Mouthed Woman" is to get a R1 DVD release through Tartan video, on August 14th.

Synopsis: "Legend holds that 30 years ago, a suburban town was terrorized by the spirit of a woman whose beautiful face had been grotesquely disfigured by a jealous husband. Roaming the streets wearing a long coat and surgical mask, the spirit would approach her young victims and, while removing the mask, ask if she was pretty.

The victim’s response would almost always lead to their violent death. Now, one by one, children are disappearing again. As teachers and officials desperately begin to investigate, a panic begins to build as the woman’s spirit returns for some unfinished business and the town's dark secrets are exposed."

'Carved' Official Site Trailer

Order the DVD here

4th August

Monster box office opening for D-War

Korean monster movie "D-War" made a very respectable start at the local box office, selling $2.9 million worth of tickets at 530 screens on its first day, just below last year's hit "The Host," which opened on 620 screens. Director Shim Hyung-rae's English-language film is pretty much a last chance saloon for distributor Showbox, given the film's record-busting ($35 million, though its rumored to be as high as $70 million) budget, and their poor performance recently.

"D-War" has had one of the most aggressive marketing (obvious why for the reason above) campaigns that the local industry has ever seen. Audience response to the film has apparently been mixed , though most agree that the film's technical qualities and CGI are superb. It remains to be seen how U.S audiences will react to the pic when it opens there under the name 'Dragon Wars,' in September. [Source]

'D-War' (Official Site)

3rd August

Upcoming Thai horror 'The House'

First news in on an upcoming Thai horror ‘The House.’ The movie is directed by Monthon Arayangkoon, the man behind last years hugely successful horror flick ‘The Victim.’

‘The House’ stars Inthira charoenpura, Chatcha Rujinanon and Komsun Nuntakit. Apparently the story for the film is based on true Thai murder case, and if you head over to the newly live official site, you can check what looks to be a very promising (and gory) teaser trail. More news as we get it.

‘The House’ (Official Site)

2nd August

Korean poster for 'Densen-Uta'

We thought it worth a mention that we have turned up a new Korean poster for the upcoming Japanese horror 'Densen-Uta.' Why. Well firstly it looks great, and second we have been unable to find a Japanese one sheet for the film anywhere! The movie has been renamed 'Death Music' for it's Korean release on August 23rd. Perfectly placed, as mid summer is a peak time for horror movie watching in Korea.

'Death Music' (Official Site)

1st August

Cronenberg Thriller to open London Film Fest

The 51st London Film Festival will open on October 17th, with the eagerly awaited 'Eastern Promises' by film legend David Cronenberg (The Fly). The movie, a London set thriller, reunites Cronenberg with his History of Violence leading man Viggo Mortensen, and will also star Naomi Watts and Vincent Cassel.

The plot centres on the mysterious and ruthless Nikolai (Mortensen), who is tied to one of London's most notorious organised Russian crime families. A chain of events is set in motion when he crosses paths with Anna (Watts), an innocent midwife, trying to right a wrong she accidentally uncovers potential evidence against the crime family, which starts harrowing chain of murder, deceit, and retribution.

Pathé will release the film in the UK on October 26, 2007. David said: "I'm thrilled to be returning to the scene of the crime. Eastern Promises is the first film I've ever shot entirely away from my home in Canada, and it makes perfect sense that it is set in London, home of so many of my most potent film influences. I can't wait to be there!" The full programme for The London Film Fest will be announced on Thursday, September 13th. 'Eastern Promises' Trailer

1st August

First trailer for ‘Muay Thai Chaiya’

The first trailer is up for the Thai kick boxing action pic ‘Muay Thai Chaiya.' Head on over to the films official site, to see the punches, kicks, and teeth fly.

‘Muay Thai Chaiya' (Official Site)