Film - March 07

31st March

Programme announced for 'Amsterdam Fantastic film Festival'

The programme of the 23rd Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival has been announced. Thrillers, science fiction, horror and cult movies are the mainstay of the Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival, and it’s been scaring audiences since its inception in 1984. Having begun life as the relatively modest "Weekend of Terror", this festival has expanded its audience by including a variety of film genres from around the world, most of them Dutch premieres or one-off presentations. The festival programme includes features, retrospectives, a Fantastic Shorts section and a children's day. There are more than 70 screenings overall, and the Silver Scream Award for the film most popular with the audience. Fest runs April 18th -25th.

'AFFF' (Official Site)

Download the 'AFFF' Programme (PDF format)

31st March

DVD updates online

See what's caught our attention in the new and upcoming DVD releases.

30th March

"Fantastic Festival" honors Gilliam

Director Terry Gilliam will be honored with a career achievement award at the 23rd Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival, organizers said Thursday. The festival, will open with Guillermo del Toro's three-time Oscar winner "Pan's Labyrinth," and runs April 18th-25th.

The AFFF paid tribute to Gilliam saying he was a director who "never allows his fantasy to be limited in any way." The festival also will screen a selection of Gilliam's major films. His credits include "Brazil," "The Fisher King," "Twelve Monkeys," and "Time Bandits."

Previous winners of the award include: Wes Craven (2000), Dario Argento (2001), Paul Verhoeven (2002), Lloyd Kaufman (2003), Ray Harryhausen (2004), Paul Naschy (2005) and Roger Corman (2006). [Source: Hollywood Reporter]

30th March

Teaser poster for Hong Kong crime thriller “Eye in the Sky”

The teaser poster director Yau Nai-Hoi's crime thriller “Eye in the Sky” has appeared on the films (not yet active) official site. Yau, has up until now been best known as a frequent collaborator and scriptwriter (Election, Election 2) for director Johnny To.

Eye in the Sky tells the story of a new recruit, nicknamed Piggy (Kate Tsui) by her mentor Dog-Head (Simon Yam), as she undergoes an on-job training of sorts in their case to track down some armed robbers, led by "Hollow Man" (Tony Leung Kar Fai).

It becomes a cat and mouse game as identities are attempted to be established, and the team comes up against a villain who's truly aware of his environment, turning the tables as the hunter might become the prey.

The film recently previewed to favourable reviews at the Hong Kong International Film Festival. Check out the poster larger here.

30th March

New Malaysian Horror "Jangan Pandang Belakang" aka "Dont look back"

The upcoming Malay horror movie “Don’t look back” has yet to hit the cinemas, but it’s already caused quite a stir. A fatal accident occurred during the last day of filming of its final scene. Many are still speculating about the mystery behind the fall that caused the death of the films stunt man, Nazari Omar Baki. Investigations are apparently still ongoing.

“Don’t look back” stars newcomer Intan Ladyana playing the lead, Rio Elani co stars , supported by wellknown and established actors - Khatijah Tan, Rusminah Sidek, Dian P.Ramlee, Kamarul Yusoff and Jalaluddin Hassan. The entire 90-minute film was shot in 26 days in Kuala Kangsar and Ipoh, Perak.

Sypnosis: “20-something draughtsman Darma (Pierre) is intent on getting to the bottom of the mysterious death of his fiancée, Rose (Intan). Together with Rose’s twin sister Seri (also Intan) - the only person who knows a lot about Rose - they embark on an adventure of investigations.

The duo’s quest starts at Rose’s house where they discover a peculiar bottle, leading Darma and Seri to another riddle. The discovery of weird images in a digital camera left by Rose, adds to the duo’s suspicion concerning her death. From here, Darma’s life is turned upside down, with a presence constantly disturbing him.”

There is a trailer for the film on Youtube, which while not the best quality does have the added bonus of English subtitles. “Don’t look back” opens in Malaysia on April 5th.

29th March

"Lost" actress heads back to the big screen

Korean actress Yunjin Kim (Lost), has been cast in a new crime thriller by Prime Entertainment. "Seven Days" will be directed by Won Shin-yeon, who helmed the horror picture "The Wig" and last year's "Bloody Aria." Kim will portray a successful lawyer who, in order to save her daughter, is pressured into defending the innocence of a man slated to receive the death penalty.

The movie will be the first bigscreen role in two years for Kim, her last big screen performance being the in Korean film "Bystanders" in 2005. "Seven Days" will start shooting in April, with a Autumn release scheduled. Kim started her career on Korean TV. Her first film role was in the 1999 action flick "Shiri."

[Source:Variety]

29th March

KIM Ji-hwan's "Hometown Legends" becomes "The Evil Twin"

Upcoming Korean Horror by first-time director Kim Ji-hwan "Hometown legend" has undergone a last minute name change to the perhaps more appropriate “Evil Twin.” The horror based on a well known Korean television series is finally nearing completion. 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.

Synopsis: “Set in Chosun Dynasty, Seo-rae village is enshrouded by a thick fog coming from the lake. While running from a group of village kids, Hyo-jin and his sister So-yeon fall into the lake. The mother of the twins tries hard to save them, both but manages only to save So-yeon, who is alive but comatose.

Ten years later, CHOI is murdered mysteriously as he was heading home from a friends gathering. At that precise moment, So-yeon wakes up from her coma, without any memories of her childhood or even of her sister Hyo-jin. . Not long after the So-yeon’s recovery, more former friends are killed and people suspect So-yeon.. Her lover Hyun-sik, in truth misses the dead sister, Hyo-jin. As So-yeon is driven into a corner, her jealousy of Hyo-jin returns.” 'The Evil Twin' (Stills)

29th March

“The Host” tops $1 Million in U.S. takings

It was as confirmed on Tuesday that the film “The Host” has just passed the one million dollar mark at the U.S box office in the three weeks since its release there. Having been released in 71 theaters on March 7, the film raked in $320,000 dollars for the first week, and the earnings reached $690,000 in the 2nd week and one million in the 3rd, when the number of theaters rose to 94.

The films producer is quoted as saying that the movie reached the million dollar mark in the shortest time ever for a Korean film released in the U.S. Even considering the number of theatres this was released in, that’s one hell of an impressive sales figure for a foreign language film in the U.S!

'The Host' (Official Site)

28th March

The 1st annual 'Subtitle film festival'

Subtitle Media will launch its 1st Annual Subtitle Film Festival presented by Wells Fargo on April 12-15, 2007. The newly opened MPARK4 Theatres in Los Angeles Koreatown will host the four-day event, featuring 9 cutting edge Asian films from Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Thailand.

S-Media is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to providing a more comprehensive representation of Asian culture by promoting an awareness of Asian and Asian American achievements in the arts. They have a great selection of some of the best films that Asia has to offer, including the excellent Thai horror 'Dorm.'

For a full run down on the films to be shown and screening times, check out the official site from the link below.

Subtitle Film Festival

27th March

Trailer for indy Zombie Horror "Edges of Darkness"

A first trailer has turned up on the ‘Myspace’ page for the very promising independent Zombie horror “Edges of Darkness.” The film is helmed by first time director Blaine Cade. The principle cast includes Anne marie Pazmino, Shamika Ann Franklin, Alonzo F. Jones and Michelle Rose.

Synopsis:” Three interconnected tales of terror set against the backdrop of a zombie apocalypse. A young vampire couple struggle to survive as the zombies eat up all their food. An obsessed writer powers his computer with a chip that runs off the life force of others. A survival nut takes in a woman and her child, who on the run from a group of renegade priest’s hell bent on destroying the child.”

The storyline seems to have an Interesting blend of sub genres, that makes us intrigued to see more. The film is currently in post production. 'Edges of Darkness' (Official Site)

27th March

France Buys Korean fantasy epic “The Restless”

CJ Entertainment announced on Tuesday that it has sold the rights for the fantasy epic “The Restless” to a French distributor at the 1st Asian Film Award, recently held in Hong Kong. Great news for the French, but we are still waiting for a distributor from an English speaking country to pick up the film. Were that to happen it would hopefully increase the chances of getting to see the film, at least on a good quality DVD release. For more background on the film, you can read our original articles on the flick posted back on Sept 27th and Nov 20th.

'The Restless' (Official Site)

26th March

Upcoming film from Director Rob Schmidt "The Abiding"

News in on an upcoming project from Director Rob Schmidt, whose most well know work to date is the horror "Wrong Turn." The movie currently in pre production stars Stacey Farber and Jonathan Malen. Here is the synopsis taken from the production company's site...

"A peaceful American college town turns into a place where no-one is safe and everyone is a suspect.Students and locals begin to receive disturbing emails and phone messages from someone who seems to know a little too much about their private lives.Whenever a victim is contacted, they have no alternative but to kill or be killed. Who is this mysterious person able to turn friends and classmates against each other in this perfectly designed "game"? Or is it something much more ominous?

A college student and an ex-cop are the first to be arrested. Whilst in prison they exchange stories and discover the terrifying coincidence between the aftermath of the messages they each received. It would appear that both have been manipulated and their only escape is to find the sender of the messages. The detective investigating these murders pays several visits to the college and interviews students and professors but it is Kate, a young college girl, who is determined to solve the puzzle. But when she gets caught up in the deadly game, she discovers that the mastermind of the murders has prepared for her a very special role."

No word as yet to the film will go into production as Schmidt is currently finishing his latest horror project 'The Alphabet Killer.'

25th March

2nd U.S. Poster for Satoshi Kon's "Paprika"

Another poster is out for the upcoming U.S. release of Satoshi Kon's Anime ‘Paprika.’ Kon is the brainchild behind some iconic Anime, such as ‘Paranoia Agent’ and ‘Perfect Blue.' The movie is due for a limited U.S. opening in New York on May 25th, and L.A June 1st.

‘Paprika’ (Official Site)

24th March

Poster and trailer for Douglas Buck's "Sisters"

A theatrical poster, and new trailer have turned up online for Douglas Buck's re-make of the Brian De Palma 1973 Horror “Sisters.” The film stars: Asia Argento, Anna Mouglalis, Chloe Sevigny, Stephen Rea Lou, Doillon William, B. Davis. The story revolves around a pair of Siamese twins are separated and one is forced to live a sheltered existence under the watchful eye of a controlling psychiatrist.

Synopsis; “Grace is an ambitious young journalist conducting an investigation of a controversial psychiatrist who is currently maintaining a questionable relationship with disturbed patient Angelique. As the investigation continues, Grace soon stumbles into an ongoing conspiracy populated by human experimentation, strange deaths, and a controversial operation.

As the probing reporter delves ever deeper into the profoundly unsettling details and witnesses a brutal murder thanks to the unintended assistance of Angelique's latest love interest, Dr. Dylan Wallace, her fragile mental state is quickly shattered by the spiraling violence and unspeakable revelations to which she is now inextricably bound.”

The film recently screened at the South by Southwest Film Festival, but no actual release date for the movie has been given yet. 'Sisters' Trailer.

24th March

UK cinema release for Takashi Miike's horror "One missed Call"

Takashi Miike’s “One missed call” is apparently to get a limited UK cinema release! The film first opened in Japan in 2004 and spawned a series of sequels varying in quality, and even a TV series. The story of the movie is a twist on the now familiar ‘Ring’ series, but rather than a cursed video tape the hapless victims receive their call to a gruesome death, via their mobile phones.

Synopsis:" High school student Yumi Kamura is having fun with a group friends in a coffee bar, when her friend Yoko receives a cellular call with a strange tone which she had heard before. On screen phone appears ‘one missed call. The message left on her cell phone contains a horrible scream that sounds like her voice. More disturbing still is the call is dated three in the future. Shortly after more people start to receive the calls, and die horribly.”

UK Fans of J-horror will almost certainly have seen the movie already, but its still quite a opportunity to get to see this on the big screen. The Japanese site for the film has been re used for the newest sequel "One missed call: Final." You can however check out the old Russian website for the flick here. "One missed Call" opens in the UK on June 1st.

23rd March

Tartan buys rights to "Slit Mouthed Woman"

According to 'Variety,' Tartan Films has made another astute purchase in buying the U.S. rights to "Slit Mouthed Woman." The Japanese horror about a hideously deformed woman who is accused of a gruesome killing spree is based on a well-known folk legend. The filmed helmed by Koji Shiraishi, stars Eriko Sato, Haruhiko Katou, Chiharu Kawai, Rie Kuwana, Kazuyuki Matsuzawa, Miki Mizuno, Saaya Irie. It was produced by Takafumi Ohashi, Kayako Hanamura, Saori Yabe and Hirokazu Kokago through Tornado Film. Tartan plans to put the movie out directly to DVD in July.

'The Slit mouthed Woman' (Official Site)

23rd March

2nd trailer for Indy Horror comedy "Botched"

A second trailer for the surreal horror comedy “Botched” starring Stephen Dorff, has turned up on Youtube. Dorff plays Ritchie a two bit conman caught up in a tale of serial killers, insane hostages and double-crossing psycho Russian hardmen. The trailer does nothing to dispel our previous thoughts on the film. It looks nuts. And great fun too. For a full rundown on the storyline, and to see the first trailer, scroll down to see our original story on the film on March 5th.

'Botched' 2nd trailer (Youtube)

22nd March

Horror from the Philippines "Pamahiin" aka "Superstition"

Someone in the Philippines has been watching J-Horror again. Director Rahyan Carlos delivers what appears to be a passable frightener in the horror “Pamahiin.” The film stars Dennis Trillo, Iya Villania , Marian Rivera, and Paolo Contis.

Synopsis:” NOAH returns to the Philippines with his girlfriend EILEEN after 15 years when his best friend DAMIAN commits suicide. Knowing how strong DAMIAN has always been, NOAH is concerned as to why he took his own life. He is also bothered and haunted by a distant childhood memory concerning his other best friend BECCA.

BECCA and her mother ALING BELINDA are the town outcasts, due to ALING BELINDA’s dabblings with the supernatural. They were pushed to move out of the town, never to be seen again by the towns people of Balong Bato. DAMIAN’s passing starts a series of peculiar and unexplained deaths, all revolving around different superstitions. EILEEN, is at the forefront of all these hauntings. She is followed by the ghost of a little girl named LOTA, who died a mysterious and gruesome death.“ 'Pamahiin' (Official site)

22nd March

"Provoked" to open Indian film festival

"Provoked" will open will open the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles on April 9th. The festival in its fifth year will close April 17th with Berlin prize winner "Vanaja." The even takes place at ArcLight Hollywood, will also honor Bollywood actress Deepti Naval. Directed by Jag Mundra, "Provoked," is the harrowing story of a battered woman (Rai) who is imprisoned in the U.K. for killing her husband. The movie also stars Naveen Andrews ("Lost"), Miranda Richardson, Robbie Coltrane, Rebecca Pidgeon and Nandita Das ("Water"). Eros Entertainment will release the film theatrically in May. To see the entire fest lineup you can check out the events official site, from the link below.

Indian film festival (Official site)

22nd March

Tim Burton to Be Honored at Venice Festival

Tim Burton will receive a lifetime achievement award at the Venice International Film Festival, which begins August 29, organizers said Wednesday. Burton, whose credits include "Batman," "Edward Scissorhands" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," will turn 49 four days before the event starts.

Additionally, Venice organizers have declared that September 5th will be Tim Burton Day, and have promised a special "surprise offering." Venice hosted the international premiere of Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas" in 1994, and the world premiere of his Oscar-nominated "Corpse Bride" in 2005. Love or hate (and we love it) his work there's no denying Burtons influence on modern film has been monumental.

[Source: Reuters]

22nd March

Trailer for Crime thriller "The lookout"

"The Lookout" marks Academy Award®-nominated screenwriter Scott Frank's (Out of Sight), directorial debut. The crime drama is centered around Chris (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Mysterious Skin), a once promising high school athlete whose life is turned upside down following a tragic accident. As he tries to maintain a normal life, he takes a job as a janitor at a bank where he ultimately finds himself caught up in a planned heist. The film also stars Jeff Daniels (The Squid and the Whale), Isla Fisher (The Wedding Crashers), Matthew Goode (Match Point) and Carla Gugino (Night at the Museum). Movie opens in the U.S. March 30th.

'The Lookout' Trailer (Youtube)

21st March

Malaysian horror "Chermin" to go to Cannes

The upcoming Malay horror film, "Chermin", is to be submitted to international film festivals, including Cannes, according to producer Ummi Khaltoum in an interview yesterday. "We are in the process of submitting (to international film festivals), but we want to show it to the Malay public first."

The story of 'Chermin' (the first feature film of writer/director Zarina Abdullah) revolves around a woman who is haunted by a vengeful spirit trapped in an antique mirror. For a more detailed synopsis you can read our original story on the film back on Sept 5th. 'Chermin' goes on general release in Malaysia tomorrow.

'Chermin' English subbed trailer (Windows media)

'Chermin' (Official site)

21st March

Release date of Russian horror "Viy" drops back to 2008

According to the Russian film site 'Kino-Express' the release date for the Russian horror ‘Viy’ has been put back from November 07 to March 2008! We’ve not been able to find out yet exactly why the date has moved, but it does mean a Cinema (outside Russia) release, or an English subbed DVD are even further away.

For those who aren't familiar with the film here's the Synopsis: “Cartographer Jonathan Green undertakes a scientific voyage from Europe to the East. Having passed through Transylvania and crossed the Carpathian Mountains, he finds himself in a small village lost in impassible woods. Nothing but chance and heavy fog could bring him to this cursed place. People who live here do not resemble any other people which the traveler saw before that.

The villagers, having dug a deep moat to fend themselves from the rest of the world, share a naive belief that they could save themselves from evil, failing to understand that evil has made its nest in their souls and is waiting for an opportunity to gush out upon the world. Even in his worst nightmares our scientist could not suppose that he was going to meet the devil’s most faithful servant.”

So it seems we shall have to wait even longer to get to see this flick. In the mean time we shall have to make do with the great looking trailer, which you can see here. (Downloadable Quicktime)

20th March

New poster for "28 Weeks Later"

Via the 'IPM awards' a new teaser poster for the horror movie "28 Weeks Later" has turned up. Looks great. Far more impactful than the first. To see it bigger, check it out from the link below.

'28 Weeks Later' Teaser poster

20th March

Teaser trailer for Anime "Vexille"

In advance of its screening at the upcoming Tokyo Anime Festival, Japanese studio Shochiku has opened a website for 'Vexille,' a feature-length CG anime directed by Appleseed producer Fumihiko Sori. Not much content on there as yet except for a trailer. Keep an eye out at the end for a brief money shot. For a rundown of the films story check out our original article posted on Jan 31st.

'Vexille' (Official Site)

20th March

Big budget Sci-fi from Singapore "The Battle of Hong Kong - Exodus"

U.S. Quixotic Media Group and Singapore TV producer Upside Down Concepts have teamed to launch "The Battle of Hong Kong -- Exodus," the first part of an Asian high-concept sci-fi fantasy. With a budget of $12.8 million, the movie is claimed to be the most expensive ever made in Singapore. Set in a post-apocalyptic future the story sees the natives of Kowloon rise up against the Hong Kong islanders who have made them slaves. The film will be directed by Daniel Chan at the end of the year. Special effects are to be produced by Thomas Chou and Jet Yin, action figure creator on "Zero Metal."

Chan, who will produce through his own Chance Pictures, also will direct "Jiang Hu Yi" for Hong Hong's Mei Ah Entertainment this year. The film is the first to emerge from the companies' joint venture, Upside Down Entertainment, a vehicle to bring Western investment to Asian filmmaking. "We look forward to producing four to five films annually within the next couple of years," said Upside Down principal Chan Gin Kai. [Source: Variety]

19th March

New trailers for Japanese fantasy 'Gegege no Kitarô'

The ‘special’ section of the official site for the movie ‘‘Gegege no Kitarô" has been expanded to include some new trailers, and all sorts of other interactiveness.

Based on the massively popular horror Manga of the same name ‘‘Gegege no Kitarô’ tells the story of Kitaro a half-human and half-yokai (a general term for creatures and supernatural beings), who is dedicated to keeping the peace between the human and yokai worlds.

If you’ve seen and enjoyed last years hit 'The Great Yokai War,' this will one to add to your must see lists. ‘‘Gegege no Kitarô" opens in Japan on April 28th.

'Gegege no Kitarô' (Official Site)

16th March

Peter Chan's new film changes name

The Chinese name of Peter Chan's big budget war epic starring Jet Li, Andy Lau and Takeshi Kaneshiro has had a last minute name change from "Ci Ma" to "Tou Ming Zhuang" in order to distinguish the project from the original "Ci Ma" directed by Chang Cheh in the 1970s. The English title of the film will change from "The Violent Land" to "The Warlords." Peter Chan has apparently stressed his movie is not a remake of Chang Cheh's version. The first teaser (Left) poster for the new movie featuring the three leads, was also released on Thursday. [Source:CRI]

16th March

Concept art wallpapers for "The Golden Compass"

We haven't seen these before so we thought we post them. The guys over at 'Kinopoisk' have found a load of wallpapers for 'The Golden Compass,' that look like they were some of the original concept art. You can see the great pics from the links below.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

15th March

Shooting begins on live action version of "Blood the last Vampire"

According to the Korean Herald the shooting of "Blood: The Last Vampire", directed by Ronny Yu, has just begun in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Thursday, signaling the formal Hollywood debut of Jeon Ji-hyeon, one of the most widely known Korean Wave stars.

The film, a remake of a Japanese animation with the same title, is expected to be released in 2008. Jeon's management agency Sidus HQ in Seoul also announced that her English name will be "Gianna Jun" in a bid to increase her public recognition in English-speaking countries, and in Hollywood.

Sidus HQ said Gianna Jun will be used in the United States and other English-speaking countries, while in Asia she will continue to be known as Jeon Ji-hyeon, reflecting her popularity since the huge success of "My Sassy Girl".Jeon will play Saya in "Blood", a student who slashes vampires at the Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, just before Halloween. Allison Miller ("CSI: NY") also has a lead role in the film.

15th March

Review: Japanese horror "Kuchisake-Onna" aka "The Slit mouthed Woman" Russell Edwards (Variety)

Russell Edwards from Variety reviews the upcoming Japanese horror "The Slit mouthed Woman"

"Sickness and motherhood are demonized in parochial Japanese shocker "The Slit-Mouthed Woman." With imagery and phobias that are endemic to Japan, this low-budget chiller is unlikely to join the international remake stampede. Nevertheless, pic has an unsettling quality that transcends its cheap origins. Asia-themed fests looking to round out their horror sidebars will want to look. Local release is skedded for mid-March........"

We have posted the entire review over on the 24Fps forum. To check it out head here.

'The Slit mouthed Woman' (Official Site)

15th March

Final poster for Danny Pang's "Forest of Death"

The final poster for Danny Pang's upcoming horror 'Forest of Death.' The story revolves around a strange haunted forest populated by “killer Trees”? For a full rundown on the storyline and other info, check out our previous post on Feb 18th. 'Forest of Death' opens in Hong Kong on March 22nd.

'Forest of Death' (Official Site) HK

14th March

Kung Fu gets sexy in "Ming Ming"

News in on the feature film debut of Hong Kong pop video director, Susie Au.

‘Ming Ming’ is a 21st Century martial arts princess and lady Robin Hood who steals for love. Her Prince Charming is D, a maverick fighter and irresistible rogue who posted this challenge to his swarms of female admirers - give him 5 million dollars and he'll run away with his benefactress to Harbin. Ming Ming meets D's another girlfriend Nana, who is a virtual look-alike of ‘Ming Ming.’ Meanwhile, disappears from Shanghai without a trace. The only clue he leaves behind is a cryptic phone message.

Check out a very cool trailer on the films official site. “Ming Ming” is due to screen at the Hong Kong international film festival at the end of March.

'Ming Ming' (Official Site)

14th March

Theatrical poster for "Straightheads"

With a mere 5 weeks to go, the ‘Straightheads’ marketing machine is ramping up with the release of the final poster for the film. According to the movies official blog, Gillian Anderson and Danny Dyer are about to start the promotional circuit in the UK, for their shock revenge thriller.

Having seen it I can definitely say it’s well worth a watch. Those familiar with Anderson’s previous work in the likes of the X-Files may well be in for a surprise. This is Gilly as you’ve never seen her before! You can read a short review we have posted over on the 24fps forum here.

Those itching to see it in the America may be in for a bit of a wait. Sony who own the U.S. rights seem to be dragging their feet on announcing a release date. 'Straightheads' opens in the UK on April 20th. 'Straightheads' Trailer (Youtube)

13th March

First ever Ukrainian horror "The Pit"

“The Pit” is being hailed as the first ever fully funded and produced horror from the Ukraine.Written and directed by Lyubomyr Kobylchuk, the movie stars Sergiy Stasko (Bita), Svitlana Artamonova (Vicky), Pavlo Lee (Den), Olga Storozhuk (Cathy), Oleksiy Zabegayev (Shorty).

Here is the plot outline from the official site: “They were the students of archaeology who ought to serve their academic internship. Their task was to search. Incidentally the students find the lost entrance to the pit which was a myth among the scientists. Disregarding evil omens they meet the students decide to descend underground and discover its mystery. But they don't know there are things one shouldn't search...”

The movie was apparently shot entirely in a huge series of abandoned military bunkers, and has the sound (thrash guitar soundtrack included) and look of your usual teen survival horror. But considering it cost a tiny $800,000, it doesn't look half bad at all. 'The Pit' (Official Site)

13th March

Maggie Cheung Opens Chinese Film Festival in Edinburgh

"Cinema China" - the biggest Chinese film festival ever to hit Britain has just opened in Edinburgh. Veteran Hong Kong actress Maggie Cheung and Chinese mainland director Xie Fei were invited to give lectures about Chinese cinema at the University of Edinburgh.British movie buffs will be able to watch more than twenty Chinese movies produced over the last 80 years. "Cinema China" has been divided into three parts, including the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan, presenting a variety of Chinese movies - including action movies, musicals and art house movies.

Maggie Cheung has already ascended to the A-list actors in world cinema for her much-admired performances in "In the Mood for Love" and "Heroes". As a tribute to the actress, her starring movie "Centre Stage 1992" about the most prominent Chinese actress of the 1930s Ruan Lingyu, will take a prominent position on the screening list.The event will also introduce big name director Zhang Yimou's two latest movies "Riding Alone for A Thousand Miles" and "Curse of Golden Flowers". Besides filmmaking in China, other topics about China's society, history and culture will each be discussed in specific lectures at the University of Edinburgh. [Source]: CRI

12th March

Cast updates for Clive Barker's "The Midnight Meat Train"

According to ‘Variety’ Lakeshore Entertainment has officially announced Vinnie Jones, Bradley Cooper, Brooke Shields and Leslie Bibb to join the cast of "The Midnight Meat Train." The film is an adaptation of the story from Clive Barker's "Books of Blood" collection will be directed by Ryuhei Kitumara 'Versus', And the excellent 'Azumi.’ Lakeshore's Gary Lucchesi and Tom Rosenberg will produce with Barker under the Midnight Picture Show company banner.

Jones, who was last seen in "X-Men: The Last Stand," will play a serial killer who stalks the subways looking for victims. Cooper plays a struggling photographer who decides that tracking down and capturing "the subway butcher" on film will improve his fortunes. Shields plays an art gallery owner who befriends the photographer, and Bibb will play his girlfriend. Lionsgate will handle the release of the film in North America.

Jones is an interesting choice to play the killer. Acting experience aside he has one quality above all else which will help him in the role. The man can ooze malevolence. Shooting begins on March 18th

12th March

Korean actioner "Typhoon" to get UK cinema release

‘Taepung’ aka 'Typhoon' was first released in Korean in 2005. Directed by Kwak Kyung-taek and starring Jang Dong-kun, Jung-Jae Lee, Mi-yeon Lee, the film in its time was one of the most expensive made in Korean. Now the big budget action flick is to get a UK cinema release through distributor Contender Entertainment.

Synopsis:” A vessel is attacked by pirates 220 km northeast of Ji Long Port, Taiwan. The National Intelligence Service dispatches a secret agent after obtaining information that the vessel was carrying nuclear missile guidance kits stolen by a man named Sin. Sin has lived his entire life with one goal -- to destroy the Korean peninsula. With the missile guidance kits in his possession, he attempts to execute his plan. Twenty years ago, his family tried to defect to South Korea, only to be sent back to the North as the South Korean government turned its back on his family due to concerns over its relationship with China.

In the process of being handed over to the North Korean military, Sin witnesses the execution of his family followed by the separation from his only sister, Choi Myung-ju. As a result, Sin fosters deep-rooted hatred and fury. Meanwhile Naval Lieutenant Kang Se-jong is sent on a secret mission to find Sin, finally catching up with him in Russia and learns of the family's troubled history. Kang Se-jong meets Sin's elder sister Choi Myung-ju, now a prostitute in Russia and learns of the family's troubled history. During his pursuit, Kang Se-jong begins to feel compassion for Sin, but this does not hinder upon his mission to apprehend him”

The film did pretty good business on its theatrical release in the U.S. and it will be interesting to see how it fairs with audiences in the UK. A great trailer is available to watch on the Korean version of the official site. The down side is that its an incredibly glitchy and annoying embedded flash version. We've included a backup trailer link, in case of viewing problems. “Typhoon" opens on a limited release in the UK, April 27th.

'Typhoon' (Official Site)

'Typhoon' (Trailer/TV spot)

11th March

French theatrical poster for "The Abandoned"

A very cool French theatrical poster for director Nacho Cerda’s first feature length horror film ‘The Abandoned,’ has turned up in preparation for its imminent release. Already in Theatres in the U.S. the movie opens in France in May. The film stars: Jordanka Angelova, Kalin Arsov, Paraskeva Djukelova, Valentin Ganev, and Valentin Goshev.

Synopsis: “After the mysterious death of her birth mother, young Marie was adopted and brought to live in the United States. When Marie receives word that she has inherited an isolated farm in her native Russia, she sets out to explore the vast estate, and her secret-shrouded past.

The local's refusel to show her to the "damned" locale and determined not to give up, Marie convinces a man to take her there only to discover that he has inexplicably vanished shortly after arrival. As Marie sets out to explore the property alone, a surprise encounter with a man named Boris who claims to have been lured to the house as well, sets into motion a chilling series of events in which the ghosts of the past - as well as deceased doppelgangers of both Marie and Boris."

‘The Abandoned’ (Official Site)

‘The Abandoned’ (Official U.S Site)

10th March

Website live for Mauro Borrelli's "The Haunted Forest" aka "Satinka"

The website is up and running for renowned Italian director and visual artist Mauro Borrelli’s upcoming horror “Satinka.” Borrelli has previously worked as a conceptual artist and illustrator on such films from Hollywood as ‘Sleepy Hollow’ and ‘The Haunting.’

Plot Summary: ”Driven by his grandfather's mysterious past, Sean (Sevy Di Cione) searches for the key to a man's sudden disappearance within a dark forest. He believes it may have a connection to the enigmatic tree that now haunts his dreams. Sean's friends (Adam Green and Edo Beghi), along with two young women, accompany him on his quest. But things soon turn deadly as Satinka, a beautiful, but wholly vengeful spirit, wreaks her terrible revenge for an unspeakable crime committed over 200 years ago. This hurls the group into a foreboding, ecological nightmare... forcing them onto a road straight to Hell”

'The Haunted Forest' (Official Site)

8th March

Horror from the Philippines "White Lady"

It’s been out for a while, but we thought it worth a mention as horror films from the Philippines are still quite a rarity. Released in its home country in July of last year the movie is to get a second airing, as it’s due to open in Malaysia on March 22nd. “White Lady” was directed by Jeff Tan, and stars Boots Anson-Roa, Angelica Panganiban, Pauleen Luna and Gian Carlos.

Synopsis: ”Set largely in the dark and eerie campus of the Arts Academy, “White Lady's” story centres on Pearl, a simple and smart girl from the province who has just arrived in the city to study, and the clique of students led by Mimi, a pretty, rich and popular girl who gets by through bullying others.

For reasons she cannot explain nor understand, Pearl is haunted by the ghost of a white lady said to be frequenting the school grounds. Intrigued and determined to solve the mystery, she decides to explore and hears about the story of Christina, a girl driven to hiding by Mimi’s bullying. Pearl immediately feels an affinity towards Christina, being on the receiving end of Mimi’s pranks herself.

The haunting worsens when Pearl lands the highly-coveted lead role in the school play. In a series of intense ghostly appearances, the white lady manifests herself to the “in” group, letting them experience her wrath one by one. Pearl is caught in the middle of it all. Later on she discovers a deadly and horrifying secret that connects her, her schoolmates and the white lady that terrorizes their school.” 'White Lady' (Official Site)

7th March

More posters for Guillermo del Toro's "El Orfanato" (The Orphanage)

More great looking posters have surfaced for the Guillermo del Toro produced horror "The Orphanage." Check them out larger from the links below.

Poster 1 2

7th March

New stills from Thai Fantasy - "Queen of Langkasuka"!!

The first real (if small) look at what we might expect from the Thai epic fantasy “The Queen of Langkasuka,” has arrived in the form of some new stills on the movies production company website. Massive in scale and budget the film is set to dwarf this years big seller in Thailand “King Narusan.”

Directed by Nonzee Nimibutr, and featuring Ananda Everingham star of the excellent Thai Horror 'Shutter' the film is said to feature ambitious sequences such as CGI-enhanced underwater fights, magical adventures with giant whales and deep-sea creatures. If that wasn't enough, there is also talk of huge cannon battles among the warring parties, and locations as disparate as sea gypsy villages and pirate gunships. Fantastic!

For a short synopsis, check out our original story on the film back on 18th Aug last year. Currently still filming the movies release should be in December 07.

'Queen of Langkasuka' Stills

'Queen of Langkasuka' Concept art

6th March

Tony Leung leaves "The Battle of Red Cliff"

Tony Leung has decided to step back from the lead of John Woo's mega budget Epic "Battle of Red Cliffs." Fans of Hong Kong actor Leung won't be able to see him in the upcoming "Battle of Red Cliffs," or "Chi Bi," as the star has decided to step back from the lead in the film.

Chinese web portal Sina.com says the film's director John Woo confirmed the Cannes Best Actor winner gave up playing Zhu-Ge Liang, a legendary military strategist in the ancient Three Kingdoms period, in the film.

Tony Leung has reportedly said the plot was attractive, but the six-month-long shoot was longer than he expected. Takeshi Kaneshiro (Confession of Pain, House of Flying Daggers) has been confirmed to take on the role and join the star-heavy cast, including Chow Yun-Fat, Taiwan supermodel Chiling Lin, and mainland actress Vicki Zhao. "Battle of Red Cliffs" will begin shooting later this month, and is slated to premiere next year.

5th March

Stephen Dorff' stars in Indy Horror comedy "Botched"

Indy horror comedy “Botched” (original title "13") stars Stephen Dorff in a tale of twin serial killers, insane hostages and double-crossing psycho Russian hardmen. Dorff joins actors Bronagh Gallagher, Sean Pertwee and Jaime Murray on the production which is the directorial debut for writer/director Christopher Ryan. The project is a UK, German, Irish ,USA co-production. The script has been co-written by, Eamon Friel and 'The Calcium Kid' screenwriters Raymond Friel and Derek Boyle.

Here is an excerpt from the full synopsis: ”Ritchie Donovan is a professional thief whose luck has just run out. The only survivor from a heist that goes terribly wrong, RITCHIE is forced to take the rap and sent to Russia to steal a priceless antique cross locked in a safe on the penthouse floor of a Moscow skyscraper.

Things start badly and go rapidly downhill. RITCHIE'S psychotic Russian accomplices, PETER and YURI, kill a woman during the robbery and they are forced to take hostages when trapped by the police on the unused 13th floor. It gets worse. During a hostage hand-over the hostage ends up without a head, and RITCHIE realises that it's not the police he's dealing with it's something much more terrible.”

The movie is a mad blend of crime caper and off the wall surreal comedy horror. Great stuff! To see for yourself, check out a trailer for the film here. The flick recently screened at the European Film Market in Berlin, but no cinema release date is set as yet.

5th March

Website arrives for "Alone"

The official site to "Alone" has arrived online. Kudos goes to the guys at 'Deknang' for the find. Within is the usual assortment of goodies including trailers in multiple formats, the big plus being a super crisp high def Quicktime version. "Alone" opens in Thailand on March 29th.

'Alone' (Official Site)

4th March

"Lethal Ninja" heads to Japan

Ever so slightly cheesy Hong Kong actioner “Lethal Ninja” is to get a release in Japan. The movie is directed by Herman Yau who has tackled nearly every film genre known to man, from exploitation, to urban satire. Lethal Ninja is another notch on the belt of the versatile director, but it perhaps won’t go down in history as one of his best. Lethal Ninja is loaded with nifty ninja mysticism and more than a touch of campy martial arts action.

Synopsis:” Eva Huang (Kung Fu Hustle) is Xiao Ling, a super-cute ninja who works with her master (Eddy Ko) to protect a street musician named Copy (Dayo Wong). Evil mastermind Brian (Waise Lee) suspects that Copy holds the key to opening a mysterious red box that contains "Jinrui", which is said to cure any disease known to man. Brian intends to use Jinrui to manufacture a cure-all drug and make a ton of cash on the market, and enlists an army of ninjas to aid him. Xiao Ling wants Copy alive, but fellow ninja Hibiki (Shirata Hisako) is willing to kill Copy to keep the secret safe. The two female ninjas find themselves at odds, but when Brian's ninjas snatch Copy, the two must join forces. Can Xiao and Hibiki use their deadly ninja arts to save Copy and prevent Jinrui from falling into enemy hands?." 'Lethal Ninja' (Official Site) Japan

3th March

One sheet for Guillermo del Toro's "El Orfanato" (The Orphanage)

First poster is out for "The Orphanage." Directed by J.A. Bayona, is written by Sergio G. Sanchez and produced by Guillermo del Toro, Mar Targarona, Alvaro Augustin and Joaquin Padro. The movie stars, Macarena Gómez, Nuria González ( Kilometro 31), Adria Collado, and Ruth Díaz.

The movie centers on Laura, who purchases her beloved childhood orphanage with dreams of restoring and reopening the long-abandoned facility as a place for disabled children. Once there, she discovers that the new environment awakens her son's imagination, but the ongoing fantasy games he plays with an invisible friend quickly turn into something more disturbing.

As well as the very cool poster, we have tracked down a suitably creepy and atmospheric teaser for the film over on Youtube.

'The Orphanage' Teaser

3rd March

Serbian Zombie horror "Zona mrtvih" aka "Zone of the Dead"

Well this is new! Perhaps not content to let their neighbour Russia corner the horror film market in Eastern Europe and beyond, Serbian film studio 'Talking Wolf' is to release a Zombie survival movie of their very own. “Zone of the Dead” is directed by Milan Todorovic and stars Vojislav Brajovic, Dragan Nikolic, Vukota Brajovic and Miodrag Krstovic. Surprisingly the movie will be filmed almost entirely in English.

Here is the synopsis taken form the production studios website…..: “In the industrial town of Pancevo, after the incident at the railway station, a dangerous biochemical toxin becomes airborne in the middle of the night, poisoning the inhabitants. The infection spreads all over the town and it seems like the Armageddon is happening.

Meanwhile, a police-escorted prisoner transport supervised by Interpol sets off from Vršac to Belgrade. On Interpol's request, transport is joined by an experienced detective Dragan Vukovic, who decided to transfer to a desk job in Belgrade after his wife died. A seemingly routine assignment escalates into a hellish fight for survival.

The route leads the transport through Pancevo, where they encounter an ecological disaster and infected people who are trying to kill them. Detective Vukovic and the Interpol agents soon realize that their only chance for escape from the infected hordes lies in allying with the dangerous, mysterious prisoner. The escape from Pancevo becomes their common goal. While the evil runs through the streets, they must survive in hope that they will be able to avoid the impending apocalypse.”

Not content with just one Zombie horror, two sequels; "Wrath of the Dead" and "Reign of the Dead" are already in pre production. As well as news on the release, we have also found a great looking teaser trailer for the flick. There is also a ton of good looking stills, artwork and posters to been seen on the studios website. “Zone of the Dead” opens in Serbia in June.

'Zone of the Dead' Teaser trailer (Youtube)

'Zone of the Dead' Sub site (Talking Wolf productions)

2nd March

Full length trailer for Spanish horror "La Hora Fria"

We have been following development on this extremely promising Spanish horror for quite some time. They have teased us with their trailers before, but this latest (a show reel from the European film market) comes closest to giving us an idea of what we can really expect. Great things by the looks of it!

The movie tells the story of eight survivors of a nuclear war who live an isolated near ruined fallout facility. Unable to leave they live in a perpetual fear, and their food and medicines are running dangerously low. For a full rundown of the plot and all the other trailers, Check out our previous posts on July 7th, Aug 14th/16th, Sept 5th, Jan 10th.

'La Hora Fria' trailer (Youtube)

1st March

Website live for Hong Kong frightener "The Haunted School"

And many treats lurk within. For one thing a far better quality trailer. Another bonus was the discovery that there's fully functioning English version of the site as well. Enjoy!

'The Haunted School' (Official Site)

1st March

More posters for Thai horror "Alone"

And damn good they look too. Thai horror movie posters have a distinct and impactful style that always catches the eye. Via the guys at 'Deknang' you can check them out full size, from the links below.

New posters 1 2