Monthly Archives: September 2023

Saturday is Horror Day #133 – The Eternal Daughter, Wrong Turn 6: Last Resort

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Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

The Eternal Daughter

Julie Hart (Tilda Swinton) and her elderly mother return to an eerily almost deserted hotel which was once their former home in order to find answers to unanswered questions. The hotel receptionist (Carly-Sophia Davies) is unpleasant at best, and not very cooperative. It doesn’t take long for the hotel to get to Julie, and she isn’t sure how much of it she can take.

I normally don’t read reviews before I watch something so that I can make up my own mind about a film.

In this cast, I wish I had made an exception to that rule. This is not a good movie, despite having Tilda Swinton in a double role, as both Julie and her mother. I suspected the truth from the outset and was proven correct at the end. What came in between beginning and end was not very scary nor interesting. In fact it wasn’t much of anything at all. My advice is to avoid this at all costs. I’ll give it 1 Star, just for Tilda.

Wrong Turn 6: Last Resort

An unexpected inheritance of a resort hotel in the middle-of-nowhere West Virginia brings Danny (Anthony Ilott) and his friends to investigate the windfall. The resort is being managed by Jackson (Chris Jarvis) and his sister Sally (Sadie Katz), who welcome their newly found kin with open arms. There is some confusion as to the relationship between Jackson and Sally, since she slides between calling him brother, husband, and cousin. But hey, it’s West Virginia, so some people have a different definition of family.

Danny’s girlfriend Toni (Aqueela Zoll) isn’t sure she likes this place, nor Danny’s new kinfolk. Especially Sally.  But if she could read Sally’s mind, she would like her even less. Strange things began to happen and people are getting hurt. And they begin to discover that maybe there are other people here who are, let’s say less than normal. Toni wants to leave, but Danny is adamant that he wants to get to know his family better, and they him (especially Sally). But at what price?

Well, I managed to finish watching this one, which is more than I can say for the three that came before it, which should tell you something. I sit great cinema? No, but it’s done fairly well considering the writing and the horrible plot. I think part of the reason it is better is that there are fewer of the inbred freaks, and the two family members with the most interaction appear deceptively normal. Jackson is even considered by some of the older female guests as very charming and attractive and they like to attract his attention in silly ways. Even if that attraction turns deadly.

Once again, I could have done without the gratuitous sex scenes, but whatever. If that’s your cup of tea, so be it. If you like cannibalism and gore, you might enjoy this. There is one more in the series (as of this writing0 and I read somewhere it was good, so I guess I’ll let you know when I watch it. In the meantime, I’ll give this film 2 Stars.

Book Review: Skip Beat!, Vol 18 by Yoshiki Nakamura

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Skip Beat! Vol 18       

Author: Yoshiki Nakamura

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date:  May 5,  2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/shojo manga/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

It’s been a while since Kyoko was given a job from the Love Me Section. What with her continuing success in obtaining acting roles, she’s a little surprised to be chosen for just such a job. Especially when she learns she’ll be helping a Japanese actor who moved to the States and went Hollywood years ago, but has returned. Koo Hizuri is his name. She also doesn’t know that he is Ren’s father. But Lory knows that. What is the President up to?

That’s the same question Ren is wondering when Lory told him Koo was coming back to Japan. President knows the state of their relationship, or rather lack thereof. Although Kyoko tries her best (she thinks she was requested because Koo wants a certain style of cooking), the actor is difficult, to put it mildly. But when he disrespects Ren, he’s gone too far and Kyoko lashes out (Koo played the original role that Ren is playing in Dark Moon). But the next day, Kyoko returns and apologizes, determined to do her best to carry out her assignment, no matter what.

When Kyoko receives a call about possible job offers, she hesitates, not wanting to be typecast in bully roles because of the way she played Mio. But Koo quickly sets her straight and lets her know the proper way to handle things. He tells her she needs to challenge herself, make each role different even if it’s similar. To stretch herself as an actress. He gives her an assignment and sends her home to work on it. She is to create a character, one that is completely alien to her…she’s going to play his son! How diabolical is that?

Ren, having learned that Kyoko has been assigned to Koo, runs into her as she is in a funk about how she is going to play a boy. Ren is already concerned, wondering what Lory is playing at, but her demeanor only gives him more to worry about. Not one to complain, she assures him all is well, because she doesn’t want to stress him out by leaning on him. She shows up the next day, ready to do as asked, and using the name Koo gave her to use – Kuon. The plot thickens indeed!

Ren phones Lory to ask what he is about, and he plays innocent. But things go from bad to worse when Ren and his manager run into what appears to be a young person, only to discover it’s Kyoko. At least they think it is. She looks nothing like herself. And she is acting nothing like herself. What the heck is going on? And then, the moment Ren had dreaded, arrives…

This volume of Skip Beat! is really really awesome. So much going on here. The father who abandoned Ren for his career is back. Not that Ren wants anything to do with him. But the President has embroiled Kyoko in this mess. Why? Because he has told Koo that if he attacks Kyoko enough, she will eventually break and go to Ren. And when she does, Ren will come out in full force! That’s the only way he will get to see his son and he knows it.

I just love this series so much. Character development is off the chain! I love how Lory stresses out playing a dating sim game lol Kyoko is displaying so much more talent than when she began. She is definitely going places. My question is – when will she learn the truth about Ren, what will she do with the knowledge that he and Corn are the same and he’s always known it… and can they get past it?

Another great volume, can’t wait for the next!

Saturday is Horror Day #132 – Skinamarink

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Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

Skinamarink

Kevin (Lucas Paul) and his little sister Kaylee (Dali Rose Tetreault) find themselves suddenly alone in the middle of the night, their parents nowhere to be seen. To make matters worse, the doors and windows of the house have all vanished.

Skinarmarink is an atmospheric horror film by writer/director Kyle Edward Ball. Everything takes place within the confines of one family’s home. No lights are turned on, so the action is perceived through the darkness. The children have to cope with their new reality, especially after they realize they are not alone.

This movie is not necessary for everyone. Not a great deal happens, in that the children try to go about

their lives. At the same time, it is totally creepy, especially as the disembodied voice begins to show its control of and dominance over the children. Themes regarding childhood fears of abandonment and helplessness are brought to the fore. Ball has a unique voice and style, and I would like to see more of what he can do. I’ll give this film 4 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: September 20, 2023

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Here is a list of all the authors flashing this week, along with a brief snippet from their latest free work. Click the link after the snippet to be taken to the complete story on the author’s home page.

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #87 (18.3) by Julie Lynn Hayes

That night I dreamed about Eva June. Probably the of Chip, not to mention the baby gator, had brought everything to the forefront of my mind in a jumbled cachopany of memories… with a little extra embellishment.  In my dreams, Ethan and I were back where we’d found her lifeless mangled body behind the restaurant where we’d been supposed to meet her. But in my dream, when we threw open the car door, she floated out from the driver’s seat, cackling in a most hideous manner.

“Are you happy now?” she said to me in an accusary tone. “I know you never liked me, did you? You were always so mean to me. Can’t a girl have a little fun without your making fun of her?”

I turned and tried to run,

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Saturday is Horror Day #131 – Saw II

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Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

Saw II

Detective Eric Matthews (Donnie Wahlberg) has a troubled relationship with his son Daniel (Erik Knudsen). The rebellious boy is acting up and getting into trouble. Eric Matthews gets mad at him and yells at him to leave if he wants to so the boy does. Eric finds himself investigating a murder with his partner Kerry (Dina Meyer), but there’s a twist – the killer has left a personal message for the detective. What is going on?

The victim was someone Matthews knew, although facial recognition was impossible due to the way the

man died. But he recognized his unique tattoos and knows he was someone he once put away. Matthews reaches out to his son, to no avail, but soon finds himself immersed in the case as it becomes obvious the killer is none other than Jigsaw. Acting on certain evidence, they locate John Kramer (Tobin Bell), and it seems like a slam dunk…but, of course, it isn’t. The detectives discover a bank of monitors which reveal several people on camera who are trapped together somewhere…including Matthews’ son Daniel. Kramer explains about the nerve gas that is slowly killing them if they don’t get out within a certain period of time. But he says if the detective is patient and waits, he will get what he wants. Of course, Matthews chooses otherwise. Let the games begin…

The second installment of the Saw series is every bit as bloody as the first, maybe more so. And there are definite twists you won’t see coming, including a previous location. The first death in this film was memorable to me, as I looked at what needed to be done and realized I would just have to die too, I couldn’t do what it would take to get free.

I absolutely love this series, but I know it isn’t for everyone. The scene with the pit filled with needles made me cringe. I don’t think I would have the nerve to go into that. Looking forward to rewatching the rest and also the tenth Saw that is coming out at the end of September. I give this film 4.5 Stars.

Book Review: The Way of the Househusband, Vol 10 by Kousuke Oono

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The Way of the Househusband, Vol 10     

Author: Kousuke Oono

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: August 15, 2023

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Comedy/168 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

Tatsu is enlisted by a local grocery to look out for shoplifters because they are causing the business to bleed cash due to the number of thefts. But Tatsu’s methods are not quite what the owner expected. And when a shoplifter is actually caught, Tatsu and the others becomes too engrossed in what the man planned to use his stolen ingredients for.

One of the ladies in Tatsu’s group has a weight problem, and Tatsu is quick with solutions! He warns her of enemies who will try to lay her low, but he knows a group who will be perfect to help her in her fight against the battle of the bulge!

Tatsu meets up with his old boss in the park, who is babysitting his granddaughter An. When An announces she is hungry, the boss asks Tatsu if he can help, since he lives close by. Tatsu is happy to oblige, of course. But cooking for a child with a discriminating palate is more of a challenge than he realized!

Tatsu has finally broken his bad habit! He quit smoking and it’s been a week now! But, as his friends and acquaintances learn to their chagrin, reformed smokers can be the worst and the quickest to give unasked-for advice and lectures!

Tatsu is excited for Christmas! But when Miku comes down with an unexpected bug on Christmas Eve, Tatsu has to temper his enthusiasm with Miku’s needs.

A member of Tatsu’s group arrives late to their meeting, and he is startled to see her dry, cracked lips. He attempts to discuss skin care with her, but she seems oblivious to her problem. Can Tatsu tell her in a diplomatic way? Or will her stubborn refusal to listen to what he is saying only lead to more pain for her?

Tatsu is the proud owner of an electric bicycle he won in a drawing! When he runs into Masa on the street, he is more than happy to show off his new ride. But their old boss shows up in his new ride, a huge SUV, and Tatsu lets him know just how bad for the environment that gas guzzler is.

Tatsu and the gang are searching for a missing feline, but when the cat is returned by an unexpected source, Tatsu becomes defensive and accuses them of catnapping!

It’s granddaughter An’s birthday, which is stressful not knowing what to get her for a gift that will be pleasing to her and the boss. She receives a new game called Boss in a Barrel and wants to play it with the guys. The goal is to kill the boss in the barrel. But they have to fight their instincts to never harm their boss, and this isn’t going to be easy for them!

Bonus story 1: An and her friend play a game called Guess the Face.

Bonus story 2: Animal Bossing (think Animal Crossing, Tatsu-style!)

I don’t even know which Tatsu story I loved the most! I never get tired of reading about Tatsu and his exploits. Another great volume, looking forward to the next one!

Wednesday Briefs: September 13, 2023

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Here is a list of all the authors flashing this week, along with a brief snippet from their latest free work. Click the link after the snippet to be taken to the complete story on the author’s home page.

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #86 (18.2) by Julie Lynn Hayes

By mutual accord, no mention was made of our visit with the actress during the remainder of our drive to Atlanta. Instead, Troy talked about some of the scripts he’d received lately, including one for a Sci Fi film, something he’d never tried before. His agent felt it was important for Troy to spread his wings so he wouldn’t be typecast, which made sense to me. I found myself interested in the premise of the story, as well as Troy’s character, and thus engrossed was surprised when I looked up to see we’dwe arrived at the Atlanta airport already. We bade farewell to Troy and Brendan, with promises to keep them apprised of what was going on. They said they would let us know if anything happened on their end as well, although short of St. Clair playing true confessions and spilling the beans to her bestie Troy, I couldn’t imagine what that might entail.

C’est la vie. Or should that be C’est la guerre. Right now, I wasn’t exactly sure.

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Saturday is Horror Day #130 – The Tomb of Ligeia

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Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

The Tomb of Ligeia

Marriage is supposed to be till death do us part…but Verden Fell (Vincent Price) can’t get over the death of his beloved wife Ligeia. He becomes a recluse, living in the ruined abbey where she is buried. He wears strange glasses because of a peculiar sensitivity to light, and shuns the company of all. However, chance in the form of a hunt throws The Lady Rowena Trevanion (Elizabeth Shepherd into his path). Separating from her hunting companions, she comes upon the ruins and the isolated grave, but a black cat spooks her horse as well as the sudden appearance of Fell, and she is injured.

Rowena’s friend and hunting companion Christopher Gough (John Westbrook) rushes to her side at the sound of her scream, and recognizes Fell as an old friend of his, much changed. Fell carries the injured Rowena into the house and cares for her. She becomes instantly taken with him, and can’t get him out of her mind, even after she is returned to the home of her father, Lord Trevanion (Derek Francis).

Seizing a chance opportunity to visit Fell on her own, Rowena boldly puts the moves on him, and they are soon married. Everything seems well with them, he has even removed his glasses as they leave for their honeymoon. But that all changes on their return, when he falls back into his old habits, and she finds herself isolated from her new husband, who is clearly obsessed with his late wife. What secrets is he keeping from her? Rowena begins to wonder if Ligeia is really dead at all…

This is another of Roger Corman’s Poe-derived films starring Vincent Price, with a clearly padded story. Vincent Price is awesome, as usual, although the lady’s sudden fascination with his character doesn’t really make a lot of sense. Also, what is the point of the black cat? A familiar, perhaps? I have no idea. Some of the tropes of that time period are insulting, such as the weak woman who is always either hurt or frightened, such as the scene in the bell tower where she is paralyzed with fright over a cat and a tolling bell. Although Poe liked to play with the idea of a thin line between life and death, here it just becomes absurd.

Frankly, I would watch anything Vincent Price is in, but that doesn’t make them all great movies. This was not one of the better ones, I’m afraid. I’ll give this film 2 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: September 6, 2023

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Here is a list of all the authors flashing this week, along with a brief snippet from their latest free work. Click the link after the snippet to be taken to the complete story on the author’s home page.

Broken Path, Starless Tail: Chapter Twenty-four by Cia Nordwell
 

“Okay, it’s fine. You’re fine.” He wasn’t fine. Beckett hadn’t realized how quickly he’d come to rely on the guides that had found him wandering down the path after he’d been sent without a fucking clue through that weird ass portal thing by his best friend’s cat. Or mostly all powerful galactic being thing. Whatever he was.  

He’d gone from wilderness to a city after days, possibly weeks of travel as everything blurred together. Beckett was exhausted and despite everyone’s assurance that he’d somehow just know what to do when he needed to do it, he didn’t have a fucking

 

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Saturday is Horror Day #129 – Outcast

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Reviewer: Julie Lynn Hayes

Outcast

Mary (Kate Dickie) is determined to protect her son Fergal (Niall Bruton) at any cost. Constantly on the run, they end up in a run-down tenement where hopefully they will be safe. But she warns him that he must listen to her and avoid other people, especially girls.

Petronella (Hanna Stanbridge) lives with her drunken mother and her special needs brother Tomatsk (Josh

Whitelaw). There isn’t much to do other than watch out for her brother and hang out with her friend Ally (Karen Gillan). She can’t help but notice Fergal, her new neighbor, and she’s drawn to him.

Cathal (James Nesbitt) is a magic user on a mission, but to succeed he needs permission from Laird (James Cosmo). Cathal seeks a certain power, and to do that he must confront another magic user, who is equally determined not to be found. Liam (Ciaran McMenamin) is helping him achieve his goal, but Cathal grows impatient and doesn’t want to listen or do what he is told.

Also, there is a beast that is striking havoc in the neighborhood, luring and killing unsuspecting victims. Can it be stopped?

I wasn’t sure what to make of this at first, as it seems a little slow at first and a little disjointed. Frankly, I got it because of James Nesbitt. But as the story progresses, little by little it begins to make sense as we watch the plot unfold and you find yourself wondering how is this going to work out? And how does everything fit together? It’s an interesting urban legend sort of story, with magic and beasts and horror, worth watching. I’ll give this film 4 Stars.