Shaun Berk's 10 Movie Recommendations- 906th Edition and the Madness: Suck Week 1

Welcome to the 906th edition of my series.  Next week, I am taking part in the annual Historic Beech Grove Cemetery Tour and I play Muncie figure Peter Trimton.  That is on October 14th at Beech Grove Cemetery from 3:30-7:30.  I don't have much else going on except for the Madness and it is a lot of madness.  Today I release week 1 which comes after the recommendations.

Renfield (2023):  Chris McKay directed this horror comedy that takes the Bram Stoker novel into a whole new direction.  Nicholas Hoult stars as Robert Montague Renfield who has been a long-time servant for Count Dracula, played by Nicolas Cage.  Renfield decides it is time to get out of his stronghold and make a life for himself but finds that is not easy.  He gets some help from traffic cop Rebecca, played by Awkwafina, who wants more from her job.  Ben Schwartz, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Brandon Scott Jones, Adrian Martinez, Camille Chen, Bess Rous, Jenna Kanell, Danya LaBelle, Rhonda Johnson Dents, Christopher Matthew Cook, Michael P. Sullivan, and many others co-star in this horror comedy.  This does have a lot of gore in it.  This movie likely has no chance of winning any Oscars but it has a lot of over the top fun if you can get through the gore.  It also pays some homage to past DRACULA films.

The Mummy (1999):  Stephen Sommers directed this adaptation on the mummy genre.  Rachel Weisz stars as library Evelyn Carnahan who wants to do an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Hamunaptra.  She gets the help of Rick O'Connell, played by Brendan Fraser, and Evelyn's brother Jonathan, played by John Hannah.  They end up unleashing a curse that brings back to life the high priest Imhotep, played by Arnold Vosloo, who wreaks havoc all over the place.  Kevin J. O'Connor, Jonathan Hyde, Oded Fehr, Erick Avari, Stephen Dunham, Corey Johnson, Tuc Watkins, Omid Djalili, Aharon Ipale, Bernard Fox, Patricia Velasquez, and many others star in this adventure film.  This was the start of a pretty decent reboot of the franchise.  Fraser and Weisz are great together and has some really good action.  This will take you on a really fun adventure.

Little Shop of Horrors (1986):  Frank Oz directed this musical which was written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken and based on the B-movie of the same name by Roger Corman.  Rick Moranis stars as the nerdy and clumsy Seymour Krelborn working at Mushnik's, a flower shop in the poor town of Skid Row.  He manages to save the struggling flower shop when finding a mysterious plant that he names Audrey II, voiced by Levi Stubbs, that he names after his crush and co-worker Audrey, played by Ellen Greene.  The plant ends up being a lot more dangerous than expected.  Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, Tichina Arnold, Michelle Weeks, Tisha Campbell, Jim Belushi, John Candy, Christopher Guest, Bill Murray, and many others co-star in this musical.  This has always been one of my favorite musicals and would love to voice Audrey II someday.  Martin is very amusing as the abusing dentist boyfriend of Audrey.  In the last few years, I have been more into the director's cut version which gives the intended ending that is more like the stage ending.

A Cask of Amontillado (1949):  This is my short film for the week which is technically an episode of the serial tv series SUSPENSE.  Robert Stevens directed this episode of the series that is based on the story by Edgar Allen Poe.  This takes place in WWII Italy where Romney Brent stars as Count Montressor who is looking for payback on General Fortunado, played by Bela Lugosi, and looks to lure him into an unusual trap.  Frank Marth, Ray Walston, and Rex Marshall co-star in this episode.  This is of worth to see Lugosi later in his career and seeing a young Walston.   

Dos Monjes (1934):  This is my Mexican horror film for the week which was directed and co-written by Juan Bustillo Oro.  This is also referred to as TWO MONKS so takes place in the religious world.  Monk Javier starts to act violently and attacks Monk Juan with a heavy crucifix.  This comes from a past from before they became monks.  This is more of an atmospheric horror film that has a RASHOMON feel to it and the second horror film to come out of Mexico.  It is hard to really explain this beyond what I already did.  

Star Wars:  Episode IV:  A New Hope (1977):  George Lucas wrote and directed this sci-fi film that would result in a huge franchise in the coming years.  Mark Hamill stars as Luke Skywalker who is stuck helping his aunt and uncle on the farm but dreams of being a Jedi pilot.  When purchasing the droids R2-D2, played by Kenny Baker, and C-3PO, played by Anthony Daniels, he sees a message from a princess which leads him to meet Ben Kenobi but is more known as Obi-Wan, played by Alec Guinness.  They set out to rescue Princess Leia, played by Carrie Fisher, from Darth Vader, played by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones.  They hire the cocky outlaw pilot Han Solo, played by Harrison Ford, and his wookiee friend Chewbacca, played by Peter Mayhew, to help infiltrate the Empire to rescue the princess.  Peter Cushing, Phil Brown, Shelagh Fraser, Jack Purvis, Alex McCrindle, Eddie Byrne, and many others co-star in this film.  I don't think I really need to explain much about this film that was the first of a trilogy but would become a lot more.  This would be what would make Harrison Ford become famous.  In addition to the iconic characters, this would also have a very iconic music score from John Williams.  Many people have their stories of seeing this unexpected box office hit in the theaters.  May the force be with us all.

Candyman (1992):  Bernard Rose directed this film which is based on the story THE FORBIDDEN by Clive Barker.  Virginia Madsen stars as grad student Helen Lyle who is writing a thesis about local legends and myths.  She learns of the legend of the Candyman, played by Tony Todd, who is a one-armed man with a hook that appears if his name is said in front of a mirror five times.  Helen does not believe in the legend so continues her investigation and learns of the reality when horrific things begin to happen in her life.  Xander Berkeley, Kasi Lemmons, Vanessa Williams, DeJuan Guy, Marianna, Elliott, Ted Raimi, Ria Pavia, and many others co-star in this film.  While this was not nearly as successful as my previous selection, this would also become a rather iconic film franchise and Tony Todd going down as a horror legend.  

Indestructable Man (1956):  Jack Pollexfen directed this horror movie.  Lon Chaney Jr. stars as Charles "The Butcher" Benton who is a death row inmate that was double crossed by his attorney.  When executed, he is brought back to life through a bizarre experiment and becomes seemingly invulnerable.  Max Showalter, Marian Carr, Ross Elliott, Stuart Randall, Ken Terrell, Marjorie Stapp, Robert Shayne, Peggy Maley, and many others co-star in this movie.  I ended up watching this with MST3K so it is more of that kind of movie despite Chaney's great presence.  This is still of interest and can be very enjoyable with a group of friends.

Girly (1970):  Freddie Francis directed this horror comedy which is based on a play by Maisie Mosco.  Vanessa Howard stars as Girly who is part of a wealthy family that kidnaps bums and hippies forcing them into elaborate role-playing games.  Those that refuse or try to escape are subject to some sort of execution.  They kidnap a new person, played by Michael Bryant who has some ideas for games of his own trying to tear apart the family.  Ursula Howells, Howard Trevor, Imogen Hassall, Michael Ripper, and many others co-star in this movie.  This is quite strange to say the very least.  Howard is perfect as the dim and naive Girly.  I doubt we will ever see this done as a play, at least not in my area.  Worth a look to see this murderous, upper-class British family.

The Wicked (2013):  I end the week with this horror movie witch was directed by Peter Winther and yes I purposely said witch instead of which because after all this is about a witch.  This centers around a local myth that a witch is said to inhibit an abandoned house called Open Hearth and that this witch eats children to stay alive.  This proves to be real when a young girl Amanda, played by Caitlin Carmichael, get abducted leading a group of teens go after her getting far more than they bargain for.  Devon Werkheiser, Justin Deeley, Jess Adams, Jamie Kaler, Diana Hopper, Jackelyn Gauci, Chase Yi, Cassie Keller, Nicole Forester, Greg Collins, and many others co-star in this movie.  This needs to be taken for what it is which is a B-movie.  A good movie for some friends to get together on a Saturday afternoon and have some fun.  Just try not to anger the witches out there

Well that is it for this week but continue on for week 1 of the Madness.  Tell me what you like and dislike and stay tuned for next week which includes Winona Ryder, Justin Long, Liv Tyler, Michael Keaton, Bela Lugosi, Tom Hanks, Christopher Lee, Kevin Bacon, and many others..

THE MADNESS:  SUCKS WEEK 1

This is week 1 of our annual contest and this is the 15th year.  This is the one thing I look forward to in the fall.  This year, we have a theme for vampires but we can still watch any movie or tv show that is horror or Halloween related.  We also have a group of people we call wild cards where anything counts no matter the genre.  I have always exploited that one through the years and have made movies like ROCKY, TITANIC, THE GODFATHER, and many others count.  I have most separated by name categories with some being wild cards but some are not wild cards.  I have a handful of categories that are more genre.

ALEXANDER SKARSGARD

Alex is a wild card in the madness and has been one in the past.

Big Little Lies:  Somebody's Dead S1, E1 (2017, 51 minutes, 666):  Alexander co-stars in this mini-series of an upper-class town dealing with a murder.  This counts this year on account of Mr. Skarsgard.

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AWKWAFINA

Awkwafina is not a wild card this year but have not problem giving her one.  

Renfield (2023, 93 minutes, 666):  Awkwafina co-stars as the police officer Rebecca and Renfield's love interests.  I wish I could have had Awkwafina as my love interest when I played Renfield. 

-Dracula ATB

Shang-Chi:  Legend of the Ten Rings (2021, 132 minutes, 666 1/2):  Awkwafina co-stars as Katy in this superhero origin film and the long time friend of Shang-Chi.  With the cameo of the Abomination and the other mystic stuff happening that this should qualify.

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BELA LUGOSI

Bela is a wild card this year with his history of playing Dracula and is automatic triple points no matter what I watch.

Suspense:  A Cask of the Amontillado S2, E6 (1949, 24 minutes, 66):  This is a more modern take on the Edgar Allen Poe story that takes place in WWII. 

-Bela Lugosi ATB

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BILL MURRAY

Bill is not a wild card this year but I found a couple good comedies.  Despite both having cameo appearances, I felt they were memorable enough.

Little Shop of Horrors (1986, 103 minutes, 666 1/2):  Bill plays the one patient that enjoys the pain his dentist puts on him.  Man-eating plant should make this count.  

Zombieland (2009, 88 minutes, 666):  Bill makes a rather amusing cameo as himself in this zombie comedy.

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BRUCE CAMPBELL

Bruce is the one person that is a wild card every year so anything no matter the genre counts.

Burn Notice:  Pilot S1, E1 (2007, 65 minutes, 666):  This spy series counts every every since Bruce counts every year.  He costarred in this series as Sam Axe.  

Jack of All Trades:  Return of the Dragoon S1, E1 (2000, 22 minutes, 666):  Bruce stars in this show as Jack Stiles who is sent to Palau-Palau by Thomas Jefferson to stop Napoleon's plans for wold domination.  He also parades around as the Zorro-esque Daring Dragoon.

Jack of All Trades:  Sex and the Single Spy S1, E2 (2000, 22 minutes, 666):  Jack and Emilia must capture the message of a French spy that contains a list of island artists deemed unacceptable by Napoleon.

Jack of All Trades:  The Floundering Father S1, E3 (2000, 22 minutes, 666):  Jack and Emilia must rescue Benjamin Franklin from being taken to Napoleon.

V.I.P.:  Val in Space S3, 11 (2001, 43 minutes, 66 1/2):  Bruce directed this episode of the Pamela Anderson syndicated series where she stars as Vallery Irons.  She is part of Vallery Irons Protection when she accidentally saves the life of a celebrity.  

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CAITLIN CARMICHAEL

Caitlin is not a wild card but fate dealt her a category in the madness.

Martyrs (2015, 86 minutes, 66):  This deals with torture and is psychological horror.  Caitlin co-stars as Sam who is being held in the basement.

The Wicked (2013, 105 minutes, 66):  This movie revolves around a witch so this counts.  Caitlin co-stars as Amanda who is abducted by the witch.  

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CHARMED

The Honeymoon's Over S3, E1 (2000, 42 minutes, 666):  Prue and Phoebe are concerned for if Piper will return from "up there" while they also get caught up in a court case and try to keep their secret.

Magic Hour S3, E2 (2000, 42 minutes, 666):  The sisters look to break a curse where a man turns into a an owl at night.  Piper and Leo try to get married without the powers-that-be knowing.

-Owl to human shapeshift

Once Upon a Time S3, E3 (2000, 42 minutes, 666):  Prue and Phoebe try to protect a little girl and a fairy princess named Thistle from the evil trolls.  Scout Taylor-Compton guest stars as Thistle.

All Halliwell's Eve S3, E4 (2000, 42 minutes, 666):  The sisters are sent way back in time to save a baby from being born into the clutches of evil.  Leo and Darryl are alone in dealing with keeping the grimlocks at bey.

Sight Unseen S3, E5 (2000, 42 minutes, 666):  The house is burglarized and Prue becomes obsessed with catching what she is convinced is a demon even though Darryl tried to convince the sisters that it could still be a human.

  

Primrose Empath S3, E6 (2000, 42 minutes, 666):  Prue becomes and empath and gains an unwanted gift of feeling the pain of everyone when saving an innocent goes wrong.  Cole remains torn to his demon abilities and his love for Phoebe. 

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CHRISTOPER LEE

Chris is obviously a wild card with a vampire theme and he is worth automatic triple points no matter the genre.

Charlie's Angels:  Angel in Hiding S5, E1 (1980, 100 minutes, 66 1/2):  Chris guest stars as Dale Woodman who owns a modeling agency and the angels are going undercover to see about missing girls.

-Christopher Lee ATB

Lord of the Rings:  Fellowship of the Rings (2001, 178 minutes, 66 1/2):  Chris co-stars in this fantasy epic as the dark lord Saruman.  I could lie and say I watched the five hour version but that's just not me.

-Christopher Lee ATB

The Man With the Golden Gun (1974, 125 minutes, 66 1/2):  Chris co-stars in this Bond movie as hitman Scaramanga who admires and targets James Bond.  

-Christopher Lee ATB

Star Wars:  Episode II:  Attack of the Clones (2002, 142 minutes, 66 1/2):  Chris is introduced to the Star Wars universe as Count Dooku who is one of those Jedis that went to the dark side.

-Christopher Lee ATB

The Three Musketeers (1973, 106 minutes, 666):  Chris co-stars in this swashbuckling film as the villainous Rochefort.  

-Christopher Lee ATB

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DANNY TREJO

Danny is a wild card this year so any of his work counts.

Alias:  Countdown S2, E20 (2003, 41 minutes, 666):  Danny guest stars in this series as an assassin named Emilio Vargas.  Also had Jonathan Banks, and David Carradine in this episode. 

Desperate Housewives:  The Sun Won't Set S2, E8 (2005, 43 minutes, 666):  Danny guest stars in this suburban comedy as Hector Ramos who was a cellmate of Carlos and asked to go look out for Gabrielle.

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FOREIGN MADNESS

Dos Monjes (1934, 79 minutes, 66 1/2):  This is a silent horror film where one priest believes another is possessed by demons. 

-Interior of a church

Dracula (1931, 104 minutes, 666):  This is the Universal version with the Spanish cast and obviously counts for Dracula.  (6 points)

-Dracula ATB

Witching and Bitching (2013, 112 minutes, 666):  Now I bring some Spanish horror comedy with the description written above.  

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FRANK LANGELLA

Frank is a wild card this year on account of his own Dracula past.

Lolita (1997, 137 minutes, 666 1/2):  I jumped right at this opportunity when I learned of the late addition of Frank.  He co-stars in this controversial film as Clare Quilty.

The Time Being (2012, 85 minutes, 666):  Frank stars as the wealthy Warner Dax who hires an artist for unorthodox assignments.

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HELENA BONHAM CARTER

Helena is not a wild card this year but is worthy of becoming one if we have have women in horror as a theme.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011, 130 minutes, 666):  Helena co-stars as Bellatrix Lestrange in this conclusion to the wizard franchise.

-I believe that was a Gothic style castle

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1994, 123 minutes, 666):  Helena co-stars as Elizabeth in this adaptation of the classic story.  

-Tall ship bonus

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JENSEN ACKLES

Legion of Super-Heroes (2023, 83 minutes, 66 1/2):  Jenen provides the voice of Batman that mostly centers around Supergirl.  I actually really liked his voice for Batman.

Supernatural:  Shadow S1, E16 (2006, 43 minutes, 666):  Sam and Dean are investigating a mysterious murder in Illinois and they come across Meg who may not be who she seems.  Yes, I just recently started this show for the first time.

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JESSICA HENWICK

Jessica is not a wild card this year but earned her way into a category.

Love and Monsters (2020, 109 minutes, 666 1/2):  Jessica co-stars as Aimee in this post-apocalyse film.  I was pleasantly surprised by this movie.  It was coming of age in a post-apocalyse film.

Underwater (2020, 95 minutes, 66 1/2):  Jessica co-stars as Emily who is part of a group of ocean researchers that must deal with a creature while underwater.  

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JULIAN SANDS

Julian is a wild card this year so I can use any of his work.

Elementary:  The Adventure of the Ersatz Sobekneferu S6, E10 (2018, 42 minutes, 66 1/2):  Julian guest sharts on this episode as Jasper Wells who was the father of the victim. 

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KATHRYN BIGELOW

Kathryn is a wild card this year and is most known for her directing.

Detroit (2017, 143 minutes, 666):  Kathryn directed this film that is set during the 1967 Detroit riots so counts this year thanks to her being a wild card.

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KERI RUSSELL

Keri is not a wild card but could become one someday.

Antlers (2021, 99 minutes, 66 1/2):  Keri plays a middle school teacher that is concerned for her student leading into a Wendigo creature.

-Vampire-like creature in the Wendigo

Cocaine Bear (2023, 95 minutes, 66 1/2):  Keri co-stars as Sari whose daughter skips school and must help save her from a bear that ingested cocaine, I think the murderous bear should make this count.

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LON CHANEY JR.

Lon is not a wild card but is a horror icon and has been a wild card in the past.

House of Dracula (1945, 67 minutes, 66 1/2):  Lon reprises his role of Larry Talbot aka Wolfman in this universal sequel where him and Dracula, played by John Carradine seek out a cure.

-Dracula ATB

Indestructible Man (1956, 72 minutes, 66):  Lon stars as Charles "The Butcher" Benton who was executed on death row and brought back by a bizarre experiment making him all invulnerable.  B-movie stuff to the core. 

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MARA CORDAY

Mara is not a wild card but found a couple of worthy b-movie selections for her so I'll give a little recognition.

The Black Scorpion (1957, 88 minutes, 66):  Volcanic activity results in giant scorpions, need I say more? 

The Giant Claw (1957, 75 minutes, 66):  I guess this was quite a year for Mara in this B-movie that has a weird looking bird creature.

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MARILYN BURNS

Marilyn is not a wild card but would be considered if we ever do a women of horror category.

Eaten Alive (1976, 91 minutes, 66 1/2):  Marilyn co-stars as Faye who ends up at a hotel run by a psychotic redneck who feeds people to his alligator.

-Louisiana bonus

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974, 83 minutes, 666):  Marilyn co-stars as Sally in this low-budget classic where she is a group of people who end up in the wrong place when encountering Leatherface and company.  

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MAXINE COOPER

Maxine is not a wild card but found a couple decent shorter selections.

Alfred Hitchcock Presents:  Salvage S1, E6 (1955, 25 minutes, 666):  Maxine has a bit role in this anthogy sereis as Mary.

Twilight Zone:  And When the Sky Was Opened S1, E11 (1959, 25 minutes, 666):  Maxine co-stars in this episode as Amy.  Three astronauts return to earth but existence is getting erased.  

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NAOMIE HARRIS

Naomie was a wild card last year in the madness so I decided to bring her back.

Rampage (2018, 107 minutes, 666):  This should count as a creature feature.  Naomie co-stars as geneticist Dr. Kate Caldwell who tries to stop genetically enhanced animals from destroying Chicago.  I remember liking the video game and I thought this was a pretty fun movie.

28 Days Later (2002, 113 minutes, 66 1/2):  Naomie plays the role of Selena who is trying not to be killed by those zombies. 

-Takes part in London

-I think we can include plague

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OUTSIDE EVENTS

Delaware County Championship Wrestling:  Cornfield Carnage 2:  I believe this should count on account of wrestler Gangrel who has a vampire gimmick.

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PAUL REUBENS

Paul is a wild card in this year's madness so anything from him counts this year.

Blow (2001, 124 minutes, 666):  This is a loophole here where Paul co-stars as Derek Foreal in this biopic on drug dealer George Jung.

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PETER CUSHING

Peter is an obvious wild card with a vampire theme so anything he has done counts and he gets automatic triple points.

Star Wars:  Episode IV:  A New Hope (1977, 121 minutes, 666 1/2):  Usually this franchise would not count under sci-fi but Peter co-stars as Grand Moff Tarkin.

-Peter Cushing ATB

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RACHEL WEISZ

Rachel is not a wild card but found a couple worthy selections.

Constantine (2005, 121 minutes, 66 1/2):  Rachel co-stars as policewoman Angela whose twin sister is believed to be committed suicide and turns to demon hunter John Constantine for help.  There are enough demons to qualify this one.  

-Church bonus

The Mummy (1999, 124 points, 666):  Rachel plays archaeologist and librarian Evelyn Carnahan and accidentally unleashes a mummy.  

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RUTGER HAUER

Alias:  Phase S2, E13 (2003, 42 minutes, 666):  Rutger guest stars as replacment director for SD6 Anthony Geiger.

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SARAH MICHELLE GELLAR

Sarah is a wild card this year and is who I really lobbied for so anything she has done gets counted.  She has been my celebrity crush since my teen years.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Welcome to the Hellmouth S1, E1 (1997, 43 minutes, 666):  Vampire Slayer Buffy Summers arrives in the small town of Sunnydale, California hoping to start over in life.  However, she learns that the town is above a hellmouth which has a lot of vampires.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

-Cemetery at night bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  The Harvest S1, E2 (1997, 43 minutes, 666):  Buffy and the gang learn they must stop a powerful vampire from opening the Hellmouth.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

-Cemetery at night bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Out of Mind, Out of Sight S1, E11 (1997, 43 minutes, 666):  An invisible girl is terrorizing the school by attacking the popular crowd and finds she is out for Cordelia next.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus 

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Prophecy Girl S1, E12 (1997, 45 minutes, 666):  This is the season finale where Buffy has her final encounter with the Master while dealing with a prophecy that involves her.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

-Cemetery at night bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  When She Was Bad S2, E1 (1997, 45 minutes, 666):  This is the season premier where Buffy is still dealing with her encounter with the Master while the vampires hatch a plan to resurrect the Master. 

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

-Cemetery at night bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Becoming S2, S21 and S22 (1998, 90 minutes, 666 1/2):  In this two-part season finale Buffy prepares for her final battle with Angel while forming an unlikely aliance with Spike.  We also see flashbacks of Angel when he first gets his soul and dealing with it.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

-Cemetery at night bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Anne S3, S1 (1998, 42 minutes, 666):  Buffy is laying low in L.A. but must investigate people mysteriously disappearing.  The rest of the gang try to hold down the fort hoping that Buffy will return.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Graduation Day S3, 21 and S22 (1999, 90 minutes, 666 1/2):  Buffy and the gang prepare for the Mayor's ascension during graduation day.  Faith does what she can to distract Buffy. 

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

 

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  The Freshman S4, E1 (1999, 44 minutes, 666):  Buffy adjust to college life and must also fight a dangerous coven of vampires.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

Buffy the Vampire Slayer:  Restless S4, E22 (2000, 44 minutes, 666):  Buffy, Willow, Xander, and Giles experience dreams in which they are pursued by a mysterious figure.  Giles also has an amusing music number.

-Vampire bonus

-Slayer is a main character bonus

Do Revenge (2022, 118 minutes, 66 1/2):  This would not usually count but Sarah co-stars as the headmaster of a prep school in this teenage revenge comedy.

Ringer:  Pilot S1, E1 (2011, 40 minutes, 666):  Sarah starred in this one season show as twin sisters Bridget and Siobhan where Siobhan disappears and Bridget takes her identity to hide from the authorities so she does not have to testify against a mobster.  I promised myself I would start this show is SMG was a wild card so this counts this year.

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STEVE BUSCEMI

Steve is not a wild card but has me a couple good animated selections.

Hotel Transylvania (2012, 91 minutes, 666):  Steve co-stars as the animated monster comedy as Wayne who is the Wolfman.  Dracula invites all his monster buddies over for his daughter's birthday.

-Dracula ATB

Monsters, Inc (2001, 92 minutes, 666):  Steve provides the voice of the villainous Randall in this Pixar film.

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TOM SAVINI

Tom is a wild card this year so his work counts.

Sheena:  Lost Boy S1, E7 (2000, 42 minutes, 66 1/2):  I am pretty sure I am the first person to include this series starring BAYWATCH babe Gena Lee Nolin.  Tom guest stars as journalist Peter Reynolds.

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VAMPIRES

Forever Knight:  Dark Knight S1,E1 (1992, 43 minutes, 666):  Nick Knight is an 800 year old cop in the modern day and trying to find a cure and become human again.

-Vampire bonus

-Flashback shows interior of a church

-Sunlight vulnerability

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VANESSA HOWARD

Vanessa is not a wild card but found a couple interesting enough selections to make her into a category. 

Girly (1970, 102 minutes, 66 1/2):  Vanessa plays the title character who is part of a wealthy British family that kidnaps people and forces them to play a role play game and execute if they don't comply.  This is a pretty interesting horror comedy.  

-Takes place in London.  

The Picture of Dorian Gray (1973, 111 minutes, 66 1/2):  Vanessa co-stars in this literary horror classic as Sybil Vane in this classic story where a man is able to make his painting age but he stays young.

-London bonus

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VIRGINIA MADSEN

Virginia is not a wild card but could be a candidate for a women in horror theme.

Better Watch Out (2016, 89 minutes, 666):  Virginia co-stars as Deandra whose son she leaves with a babysitter.  This is some good holiday horror for those that hate the Hallmark oriented movies. 

Candyman (1992, 99 minutes, 666):  Virginia stars as grad student Helen Lyle and accidnetally summons the Candyman and this is not that guy from WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.  

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WORLD OF SUPERHEROES AND SUPERVILLAINS

Harley Quinn:  The Most Culturally Impactful Film Franchise of All Time S4, E7 (2023, 23 minutes, 666):  Harley and Ivy use the time sphere and visit the future where they learn of a pending apocalypse.

Titans:  Barbara Gordon (2021, 43 minutes, 666):  Jason Todd is murdered by the Joker prompting Dick to return to Gotham City.  This is the introduction to wheelchair bound Barbara Gordon.

-Gar shapeshifts into a tiger

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Shaun Berk's 10 Movie Recommendations- 905th Edition

Welcome to the 905th edition of my series.  Today starts week one of the Madness which is really my favorite part of the year.  In the next few weeks in addition to these selections, I will be posting the results of our contest.  Today is also the last day for SHERLOCK HOLMES:  THE BAKER STREET IRREGULARS which is at 4 pm at Pulse Opera House.  I will now get to my selections for the week. 

Underwater (2020):  William Eubank directed this underwater horror film.  Kristen Stewart stars as Norah Price who is part of a crew of oceanic researchers that work for a deep sea drilling company.  They look to get to safety after a mysterious earthquake and find there is a lot more to it than just an earthquake.  Vincent Cassel, Mamoudou Athie, T.J. Miller, John Gallagher Jr., Jessica Henwick, Gunner Wright, Fiona Rene, and many others co-star in this horror film.  This is a pretty decent and fun horror film that takes us pretty deep under the water where lots of secrets are buried.  This goes along well with the season.  This is available to watch on FXNOW.

Witching and Bitching (2013):  Alex de la Iglesia directed this Spanish horror comedy.  Hugo Silva stars as Jose who leads a robbery of a gold exchange pawn shop and even brings his song along letting him participate so he likely won't be getting father of the year anytime soon.  They are now on the run and take refuge in a village that turns out to be a coven of cannibalistic witches.  Mario Casas, Pepon Nieto, Carolina Bang, Terele Pavez, Jaime Ordonez, Santiago Segura, Macarena Gomez, Javier Botet, Enrique Villen, Carlos Areces, Maria Barranco, Carmen Maura, Alexandra Jimenez, and many others co-star in this horror comedy.  This is full of laughs and violence.  I truly believe the heist scene ranks up high in the most clever heist scenes of all time.  This is a rather underrated comedy that really deserves a look.  This goes along well with the season.  This is available to watch on Tubi, IFC Films Unlimited and AMC +.

28 Days Later (2002):  Danny Boyle directed this zombie film.  A mysterious and seemingly virus has spread through the United Kingdom which turns people into zombie like people.  A group of survivors band together to find sanctuary.  Cillian Murphy, Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston, Alex Palmer, Bindu De Stoppani, David Schneider, Toby Sedgwick, Noah Huntley, Christopher Dunne, Kim McGarrity, Brendan Gleeson, Megan Burns, Luke Mably, Stuart McQuarrie, and many others co-star in this zombie film.  This is a pretty simple zombie film but is still very effective.  The zombies are also well done and quite believable in my opinion.   This is a must see for the horror fans out there.

And When the Sky Was Opened (1959):  This is my short film for the week which is really an episode of the TWILIGHT ZONE from the first season.  Douglas Heyes directed this episode of the series which was based on a short story by Richard Matheson.  Rod Taylor, Jim Hutton, and Charles Aidman star as three astronauts who have just landed.  As time goes on, they appear to be disappearing but have no idea what is happening.  Maxine Cooper, Paul Bryar, and Sue Randall co-star in this episode and as always Rod Serling is our narrator.  This is one of the more spookier episodes of the series in my opinion.  This is available to watch on Paramount Plus, Freevee, and many other streaming apps.  

Dracula (1931):  George Melford directed this film that is based on the novel by Bram Stoker.  Carlos Villarias stars the title character who I think just about all of us know by now is a vampire.  As Dracula puts solicitor Renfield, played by Pablo Alvarez Rubio, under his spell, he sets out from Transylvania to England where he wreaks havoc and preys upon Eva, played by Lupita Tovar.  Eduardo Arozamena co-stars as Van Helsing who must convince others that Dracula is a vampire.  Barry Norton, Carmen Guerrero, Manuel Arbo, and many others co-star in this Spanish version of the film.  This was filmed through Universal under the same set as the other version of DRACULA that starred Bela Lugosi.  While these were similar, this was is actually longer and I even thought was a little creepier than the English speaking version.  I also thought this one had a better climax than its predecessor.  

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974):  Tobe Hooper directed this slasher film that was the start of a long-term franchise.  A group of five friends set out to visit the grave of a grandfather in Texas.  They end up at a home of a cannibalistic family that includes Leatherface, played by Gunner Hansen, where they all fight for their lives.  Marilyn Burns, Edwin Neal, Allen Danziger, Paul A. Partain, William Vail, Teri McMinn, John Larroquette, and many others co-star in this horror film.  Larroquette does the opening narration in this film.  This is some very effective low-budget horror and is violent to the core.  This is obviously not for everyone but has its audience.  I don't think much else needs to be explained for this one.  This is available to watch on AMC +, Peacock, and many other streaming apps.

Cocaine Bear (2023):  Elizabeth Banks directed this movie that is based on true events.  Some cocaine was lost in a Georgia forest and a black bear ingests this cocaine and becomes extremely violent.  A group of cops, criminals, tourists, and teens must band together for survival.  Keri Russell, Alden Ehrenreich, O'Shea Jackson Jr., Ray Liotta, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Brooklynn Prince, Christian Convery, Margo Martindale, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Kristofer Hivju, Hannah Hoekstra, Ayoola Smart, Aaron Holliday, J.B. Moore, Leo Hanna, Kahyun Kim, Scott Seiss, Matthew Rhys, and many others co-star in this comedy.  This is Liotta's final completed film before his death.  This is very loosely based on a true story and the bear's actions are extremely exaggerated.  This is available to watch on Prime.

The Three Musketeers (1973):  Richard Lester directed this adaptation of the classic novel by Alexandre Dumas.  Michael York stars as the young swordsman D'Artagan who sets out for Paris hoping to join the elite Musketeers that consist of Athos, played by Oliver Reed, Aramis, played by Richard Chaimberlain, and Porthos, played by Frank Finlay.  He is also drawn into a scheme by Cardinal Richelieu, played by Charlton Heston, who looks to undermine the Queen of France.  Christopher Lee, Raquel Welch, Geraldine Chaplin, Jean-Pierre Cassel, Spike Milligan, Roy Kinnear, Georges Wilson, Simon Ward, Faye Dunaway, Joss Ackland, Nicole Calfan, Michael Gothard, Sybil Danning, and many others co-star in this film.  This is a very fun adaptation where we slowly see D'Artagan grow as he slowly becomes a better fighter showing he belongs in part of the Musketeers.  This is available to watch on Prime.

The Black Scorpion (1957):  This is my B-movie for the week which was directed by Edward Ludwig.  Vocanic activity manages to free giant scorpions that wreak havoc on the town.  I don't think I need to explain much else.  Richard Denning, Mara Corday, Carlos Rivas, and many others co-star in this B-movie.  This is good for the bad movie lovers.  It is likely best watched with MST3K which was the second season finale when they still had Joel Hodgson.  This is available to watch on Tubi and many others streaming apps.

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1994):  Kenneth Branaugh directed this adaptation of the classic novel by Mary Shelley.  Branaugh also stars as Victor Frankenstein who is a very brilliant scientist but also obsessive.  When his mother dies at a pretty early age, he becomes obsessed with creating life.  He creates a creature out of various body parts of the deceased.  Robert De Niro co-stars as the Creature who is rejected by Frankenstein and as he learns more of who he is, he sets out to take revenge on his creator by targeting those he loves.  Helena Bonham Carter, Tom Hulce, Aidan Quinn, Ian Holm, Richard Briers, John Cleese, Robert Hardy, Cherie Lunghi, and many others co-star in this film.  Cleese co-stars in this film as Victor's professor and was the most different I have ever seen him look.  This is an adaptation that follows the novel very quickly and is the ultimate story of fearing the unknown in my opinion.  I thought Branaugh did a great job in his own adaptation and De Niro pulled off a good performance as the Creature.   

Well, that is it for this week.  Tell me what you like and dislike and stay tuned for next week which includes Nicolas Cage, Rachel Weisz, Steve Martin, Bela Legosi, Peter Cushing, Lon Chaney Jr., and many others..

Shaun Berk's 10 Movie Recommendations- 904th Edition

Welcome to the 904th edition of my series.  We are finishing our first week of SHERLOCK HOLMES:  THE BAKER STREET IRREGULARS.  This show has gone really well and we have one more weekend.  Next week starts our annual movie and tv watching contest the Madness and I will be going back to the weekly format for for the month until I release the anniversary edition of my series.  After the anniversary I will be going back to the biweekly format.

Detroit (2017):  Kathryn Bigelow directed this film based on the 1967 riots in Detroit.  This film focuses on the Algiers Motel incident where a group of police officers brutally interrogate those staying their believing one of them fired the shots they heard.  John Boyega, Anthony Mackie, Algee Smith, Jacob Latimore, Chris Chalk, Mason Alban, Joshua Olumide, Tyler James Williams, Laz Alonzo, Benz Veal, Will Poulter, Ben O'Toole, Jack Reynor, Leon Thomas III, Ephraim Sykes, Samira Wiley, Malcolm David Kelley, Kaitlyn Dever, Hannah Murray, John Krasinski, and many others co-star in this film.  It is hard to really describe this film.  Years later, a similar thing would break out in Philadelphia showing that unfortunately, we have not learned much since this these horrid events.  It is not easy to watch but should be watched and maybe we can all learn a thing or two.  

Winged Migration (2001):  Now I turn to the bird documentary which was directed byJacques Perrin, Jacques Cluzaud, and Michael Debats.  This shows some amazing footage of birds from all continents.  As the story goes, my dad took me to see this at a local independent movie theater in his town and would not tell me what he was taking me to see.  When we got there, I'm probably like "why are you bringing me to a movie about birds" but I stuck with it and was absolutely mesmerized.  This took four years to make and as mentioned they get some truly amazing footage of the birds.  The music score by Bruno Coulais fits this film perfectly.  It also has a song by Nick Cave at the end so that did not hurt.  This is available to watch on Tubi and needs to be seen on a fairly big screen.

Angle (2023):  I follow up with another documentary which was directed by Alex Perry.  This is based on our Olympic hero Kurt Angle who won a gold medal in the 1996 Olympics with a broken freaking neck.  This looks more at his athletic life from childhood into him getting into wrestling which leads up to the Olympics.  After the Olympics, he would join World Wrestling Entertainment and have one of the greatest careers of all time.  Kurt Angle, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Gerald Brisco, Eric Angle, Bruce Baumgartner, Ric Flair, Mark Henry, Jim Ross, Giovanna Angle, and many others are interviewed in their reflections of Kurt Angle.  Earlier in the year, I had the pleasure of meeting Angle at the Squared Circle Expo wrestling convention and was a really good guy.  I will never agree with his choice of drink in milk.  This documentary takes a look at the ups and a lot of the downs when he had some drug and alcohol problems that could have ended his life.  His current wife Giovanna is someone we should thank for standing by Kurt but also making sure he got on the right path.  This is available to watch on Peacock and something that wrestling fans and non-wrestling fans can get behind.  Also, if looking for a podcast, check out his podcast THE KURT ANGLE SHOW with his co-host Paul Bromwell which features an episode where they interview the director of this documentary to get more insight into the making.

Spook Sport (1940):  This is my animated short for the week which was directed by Mary Ellen Bute, Norman McLaren, and Ted Nemeth.  This is perfect for the Halloween season we get the song DANCE MACABRE by Camille Saint-Saens.  It puts the use of shapes to be bats, ghosts, and spooks and tells the story through these shapes and music.  This is available to watch on the Criterion Channel.

One Mile From Heaven (1937):  Allan Dwan directed this drama that I guess you can say on race.  Claire Trevor stars as reporter Tex Warren who meets a little girl named Sunny, played by Joan Carroll, who is white.  She also meets her mother Flora, played by Fredi Washington, who is a black seamstress and believes she has a scoop for a story.  Sally Blane, Douglas Fowley, Bill Robinson, Ralf Harolde, John Eldredge, Paul McVey, Ray Walker, Russell Hopton, Chick Chandler, Eddie "Rochester" Anderson, Howard Hickman, and many others co-star in this drama.  This one is more sympathetic of race for a movie of this era.  Robinson is a lot of fun as the dancing cop and yes he is playing a cop instead of servant like much of the black actors of this era.  This is also available on the Criterion Channel and is worth a look.

Massacre at Central High (1976):  Rene Daalder wrote and directed this high school horror film.  Derrel Maury stars as transfer student David who is pushed to the edge once too often by a trio of bullies.  When he is physically attacked, David takes revenge on the bullies.  Andrew Stevens, Robert Carradine, Kimberly Beck, Ray Underwood, Steve Bond, Rex Stevens Sikes, Lani O'Grady, and many others co-star in this film.  This would be good to watch for the pre-season and for October in general.  This is a blend of social commentary and exploitation where the students mostly ruled the school.  This is also available to watch on the Criterion Channel.

The Exception (2016):  David Leveaux directed this film which is based on the novel THE KAISER'S LAST KISS.  Christopher Plummer stars as the exiled Kaiser Wilhelm II in WWII Hooland.  Jai Courtney co-stars as Captain Stefan Brandt who is trying to determine if the Dutch resistance has planted a spy only to fall for handmaiden Mieke de Jong, played by Lily James.  Anton Lesser, Janet McTeer, Ben Daniels, Martin Savage, Max Dexter, Kris Cuppens, Eddie Marsan, and many others co-star in this film.  I will start by saying that this is a fictional story.  This is still a pretty compelling spy film that is hard to really explain beyond what I have and get really good in the second half.  This is available to watch on Max.

Lone Wolf and Cub:  Baby Cart in Peril (1972):  Buichi Saito directed this film that is the fourth in the Lone Wolf and Cub series that is based on manga series.  Tomisaburo Wakayama reprises his role of the ronin samurai Ogama who is hired to kill a tattooed female assassin.  Akihiro Tomikawa resprises his role as Ogama's baby son Daigoro who is pretty resourceful in his own right.  I thought I was watching the second one but learn this is the fourth so I will be visiting the other in the future.  This is a very compelling story with a lot of gore.  This is available to watch on the Criterion Channel and Max.

Moss Rose (1947):  Gregory Ratoff directed this London Film Noir based on the novel by Marjorie Bowen. Peggy Cummins stars as chorus girl Belle Adair whose friend is murdered and suspicious of Michael Drego, played by Victor Mature.  She blackmails him in demand she gets to meet Michael's mother Lady Margaret Drego, played by Ethel Barrymore.  Things get complicated when Inspector Clinner, played by Vincent Price, arrives to investigate the murder.  Margo Woode, George Zucco, Patricia Medina, Rhys Williams, and many others co-star in this film.  This is a pretty good mystery that will leave us guessing.  Cummins is great as the protagonist.  This has gone down as a bit underrated and is available to watch on the Criterion Channel.

The New Math(s) (2000):  I end the week with this short film which was directed by Hal Hartley.  D.J. Mendel, David Neumann, and Miho Nikaido star in this short where they star as a teacher and two students where they fight over the answer to a complex math problem.  This is set to a musical score which was wirten by Louis Andriessen.  This is about 15 minutes long and conveys its story well without the dialogue even delivering some laughs.  This is available to watch on the Criterion Channel.

Well, that is it for this week but continue on for the return of my segments "The Bookworm Corner" and "Tube Time".  Tell me what you like and dislike and stay tuned for next week which includes Kristen Stewart, Cillian Murphy, Christopher Lee, Helena Bonham Carter, and many others.

THE BOOKWORM CORNER

Radium Girls by Kate Moore (2017):  Having been in the play of the same name by D.W. Gregory, I decided it was time to read this book.  The play comes from this book but only covers the Newark, New Jersey side.  There is another play called THESE SHINING LIVES which is based on the evens in Ottawa, Illinois in which the author Moore directed.  After directing this play, she became interested in writing a book where she would interview families of the ladies that worked at the radium factories.  This took place during WWI where they had radium factories in the two places listed.  They hired a lot of young girls to use radium paint for dial watches so the soldiers can see them better.  It seemed like a great place to work with the pay and camaraderie among the girls.  They were advised to the lip, dip, paint technique with the brush not knowing the effects the radium would have on these girls which lead to big lawsuits in this era.  They all suffered various effects where some died right away but some lived longer.  This was also very new for the doctors and it was hard to them determine what the problem was that was happening.  I also noticed a lot of the issue came from the affordability for all the medical bills.  This is a very significant part of our history that had such unnecessary tragedy.  This book takes a good look at the people involved in their triumph and tragedy.  It was a great play to have been a part of and while it was not an easy read I knew I had to get through it.

TUBE TIME

The Sopranos (1999-2007):  David Chase created this series on the mafia in New Jersey.  James Gandolfini stars in his iconic role of New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano.  He has a lot on his plate including his family which includes his domineering mother Livia, played by Nancy Marchand, his wife Carmella, played by Edie Falco, and kids Meadow, played by Jamie-Lynn Sigler, and AJ, played by Robert Iler.  He is also the mob boss where he mostly has his headquarters at the Bada Bing strip bar which is also a very stressful job.  He gets help from his cohorts that usually include Paulie, played by Tony Sirico, Silvio, played by Steven Van Zandt, Christopher, played by Michael Imperioli, and many others.  His stress is enough that it effects his mental state leading him to seek psychiatic treatment where he sees Dr. Jennifer Melfi, played by Lorraine Bracco, where they have quite the dynamic of Melfi knowing who Soprano is and Tony having to be careful how he words things for legal purposes.  Dominic Chianese, Aida Turturro, Steve Schirripa, Drea de Matteo, Dan Grimaldi, Joseph Gannascoli, Sharon Angela, John Ventimiglia, Vincent Curatola, Franck Vincent, Federico Castellucio, Jerry Adler, Arthur J. Nascarella, Max Casella, Maureen Van Zandt, Vincent Pastore, Robert Funaro, Carl Capotorto, Matt Servitto, Tom Eldredge, Joe Pantoliano, Suzanne Shepherd, Katherine Narducci, Angelo Massagli, Ray Abruzzo, Steve Buscemi, Peter Bogdanovich, Paul Schulze, Jason Cerbone, David Proval, Frankie Valli, Cara Buono, Annabella Sciorra, John Heard, Lillo Brancato, Julianna Margulies, and many others co-starred in this series or had stints at various parts of the show.  This series still lives on in pop culture and was one that was very likely helpful to the HBO network as some would subscribe for that series.  This show went on for six seasons where so many would just come and go.  Unfortunately, the series finale left a lot to be desired the way it ended.  It is still an enjoyable journey where real-life mobsters are said to have spoken very highly of the series. This is available to watch on HBO Max.

Shaun Berk's 10 Movie Recommendations- 903rd Edition

Welcome to the 903rd Edition of my series.  Today is the start of the NFL season I so I hope that my 49ers will be good this year and my fantasy team.  The show is getting closer so go to https://reservetickets.pulseoperahouse.org/ to reserve your seats for SHERLOCK HOLMES:  THE BAKER STREET IRREGULARS.  I don't have much else happening so I will get to my selections for the week.

The Enforcer (1995):  I start the week out with this martial arts film which was directed by Corey Yuen.  Jet Li stars as undercover cop Kung Wei who infiltrates a gang to bring down the ruthless Po Kwang, played by Romgguang Yu. Anita Mui co-stars as Inspector Fong who accidentally blows Kung's cover and helps go after Kwang along with Kung's son Ku Kung, played by Miao Xie.  This is a pretty fun action film that has a rather moving story to go along with it.  There are also some great fight scenes with the most notable being at the end.  Li and Mui are on top of their game with martial arts and I am always glad to see the late Anita Mui whose life was cut way too short.  This is also known as MY FATHER IS A HERO.  

Joan of Arc (1900):  This is my silent short film for the week which was directed by film pioneer Georges Melies.  This is his ten minute take on the history of Joan of Arc through his usual sorts of special effects.  Melies is most known for his sci-fi short film A TRIP TO THE MOON and had a lot of other elaborate short films from this era.  This is available to watch on the Criterion Channel as well as much of Melies's works.  

House of Frankenstein (1944):  Erle C. Kenton directed this Universal sequel.  Boris Karloff stars as the deranged scientist Dr. Gustav Niemann who takes in hunchback Daniel, played by J. Carrol Naish, with the promise that he will make him better.  Niemann's real plans are to get revenge on some enemies and becomes inspired by the works of Dr. Frankenstein.  He manages to revive Dracula, played by John Carradine, Larry Talbott aka the Wolf Man, reprised by Lon Chaney Jr., and Frankenstein's Monster, played by Glenn Strange.  Anne Gwynne, Peter Coe, Lionel Atwill, George Zucco, Elena Verdugo, Sig Ruman, and many others co-star in this Universal Horror film.  It is good to see Karloff take the other side of the villainous human and interacting with the character he made famous.  I believe Carradine is an underrated Dracula from this era and just underrated in general.  This is part of the Universal dvd box set of DRACULA despite the name not being in this title.

Veronica Mars (2014):  Rob Thomas directed this movie adaptation of his series of the same name and co-wrote with Diane Ruggiero-Wright.  Kristen Bell reprises her role as the resourceful Veronica Mars.  She has a lot going for her in New York as she finishes law school.  She is drawn back into the wealthy and scandalous town of Neptune, California when her ex-boyfriend Logan Echolls, played by Jason Dohring, becomes a suspect into a murder.  Veronica looks to prove his innocence while dealing with the corrupt police force.  Enrico Colantoni, Christopher Lowell, Tina Majorino, Percy Daggs III, Krysten Ritter, Martin Starr, Gaby Hoffman, Jerry O'Connell, Francis Capra, Ryan Hansen, Brandon Hillock, Maury Sterling, Sam Huntington, Max Greenfield, Daran Norris, Christine Lakin, Lisa Thornhill, Jessica Camacho, Jamie Lee Curtis, Dax Shepherd, Ken Marino, and many others co-star in this movie.  This tv series went from 2004-2007 having three seasons and was a pretty clever show that ended rather abruptly while having one more season in 2019 that I understand is more of a mini-series.  Having recently binged the show, I enjoyed this continuation.  I would recommend watching the three seasons to get to the characters in this movie.  The tv series is available on Hulu but this is not on any streaming service as of now.

The Premature Burial (1962):  Roger Corman directed this film that is based on a story by Edgar Allen Poe.  Ray Milland stars as Guy Carrell who has a fear of being buried alive due to past experience.  Hazel Court co-stars as Emily Gault who looks to rekindle her old relationship with Guy and ends up marrying him but Guy's fear makes for a troubled marriage.  Richard Ney, Heather Angel, Alan Napier, John Dierkes, and many others co-star in this film.  Corman would usually cast Vincent Price in his Poe films but for this one chose Milland as he went outside of American International Pictures and Price was signed to them.  Milland also does a good job as Poe's tortured protagonist.  This is a more unknown Poe story and more unknown Corman film that deserves a look.  This is available to watch on the Criterion Channel.

Happy Gilmore (1996):  Now I pay tribute to Bob Barker who recently left us at 99 years of age and has a very amusing cameo along with a memorable fight scene with Adam Sandler.  Dennis Dugan directed this comedy which was written by Tim Herlihy and Adam Sandler.  Sandler stars as wannabe hockey player Happy Gilmore who has a rather violent temper.  His grandmother, played by Frances Bay has lost her home due to the taxes she owes and ends up in a nursing home.  Happy soon learns he has a very powerful drive in golf and is discovered by local golf pro Chubbs, played by Carl Weathers.  When Gilmore learns he can make a lot of money by joining the P.G.A. tour, he joins in hopes of saving his grandmother's home but his hockey mentality makes the more classy game of golf more difficult.  Christopher McDonald co-stars as the cocky golf pro Shooter McGavin and Julie Bowen co-stars as reporter Virginia Venit who tries to help Happy with his image.  Allen Covert, Robert Smigel, Richard Kiel, Dennis Dugan, Joe Flaherty, Kevin Nealon, Will Sasso, Ben Stiller, and many others co-star in this comedy.  This is the usual Adam Sandler style of comedy.  With Sandler movies, I always enjoy the supporting character like getting to see Carl Weathers, Bond alum Richard Kiel, and Barker playing himself.  This is very raunchy and vulgar comedy and a great golf movie.

When the Daltons Rode (1940):  This is my western for the week which was directed by George Marshall and based on the book of the same name by Dalton Gang member Emmett Dalton, played by Frank Albertson.  Randolph Scott stars as attorney Tod Jackson who goes to visit his rancher friends the Daltons and tries to help them deal with a crooked development company.  With these events, they saw no choice but to become outlaws thus becoming the Dalton Gang.  Kay Francis, Brian Donlevy, George Bancroft, Broderick Crawford, Stuart Erwin, Andy Devine, Mary Gordon, Harvey Stephens, and many others co-star in this western.  This is based on Dalton's autobiography as mentioned and this movie portrays them as antiheroes like much of the western outlaws.  I do not know the actual validity of this film but was still compelling to watch and something to think about.  This is available to watch and the Criterion Channel.

Drive (2011):  Nicolas Winding Refn directed this action film which is based on the novel by James Sallis.  Ryan Gosling stars as the credited name of Driver who is a Hollywood stuntman by day and getaway driver for others at night.  He appears to be rethinking his life when he meets and falls for his neighbor Irene, played by Carey Mulligan, whose husband Standard, played by Oscar Isaac, owe a lot of money.  When driver tries to help Standard, things go wrong and he must protect Irene and her son Benicio, played by Kaden Leos.  Albert Brooks, Bryan Cranston, Christina Hendricks, Ron Perlman, Jeff Wolfe, James Biberi, Russ Tamblyn, and many others co-star in this film.  This is a rather violent film but is also strangely moving.  Part of what made this work was the soundtrack of the film which weave perfectly with the action.  Also, Gosling's subtle but effective performance as the Driver took this to another level.  

Paradise Alley (1978):  I pay homage to wrestling legend Terry Funk who recently left us and plays wrestler Frankie the Thumper in this movie.  Sylvester Stallone wrote and directed this film taking a look at the 1940s slums of Hell's Kitchen in New York City and makes his directorial debut.  Stallone, Armand Assante, and Lee Canalito star as the struggling Carboni Brothers Cosmo, Lenny, and Victor.  Cosmo is the con artist type of the three and sees potential in the world of wrestling feeling the muscular Victor had potential as a wrestler while Lenny goes into the promoting end.  Frank McRae, Anne Archer, Kevin Conway, Joe Spinell, Aimee Eccles, Tom Waits, Frank Stallone, and many others co-star in thi film.  Wrestler cameos include Ted Dibiase, Dory Funk Jr., Don Kernodle, Gene Kiniski, Dick Murdoch, Dennis Stamp, Ray Stevens, and Haku.  This has always been a project for Stallone as he wrote this before ROCKY and with the success of that film he got the green light to go through with this one.  This is Funk's first movie and plays the main rival to Victor leading into a climatic wrestling match made even more interesting by the rain that comes into play.  It is good to see Stallone do a movie about the wrestling world.  Long live the legendary Terry Funk.

The Eight Mountains (2022):  I end the week with this Italian film which was directed by Felix van Groeningen and Charlotte Vandermeerch and based on the novel by Paolo Cognetti.  Lupo Barbiero and Cristiano Sassella star as Pietro and Bruno as we see a friendship from four decades that started in childhood.  Through the years they have a goal of building a cabin on the Alps but their drive is a little different in this pursuit.  Elena Lietti, Filippo Timi, Gualtiero Burzi, and many others co-star in this film.  This has some beautiful footage in the mountains. It is more driven by the characters than the script.  It is a very moving film of a long-time friendship through the decades.  This is available to watch on the Criterion Channel.

Well, that is it for this week.  Tell me what you like and dislike and stay tuned for the next couple weeks which will include Anthony Mackie, Christopher Plummer, Vincent Price, and many others.