VIDEO REVIEW: Friday the 13th Part 3

VIDEO REVIEW: Friday the 13th Part 2

VIDEO REVIEW: Friday the 13th

VIDEO REVIEW: Silent Night, Deadly Night

VIDEO REVIEW: Black Christmas

VIDEO REVIEW: Halloween 2

VIDEO REVIEW: Halloween

VIDEO REVIEW: Just Before Dawn

VIDEO REVIEW: My Bloody Valentine

VIDEO REVIEW: The New York Ripper

VIDEO REVIEW: Stage Fright - Aquarius

VIDEO REVIEW: Maniac

REVIEW: Friday the 13th Part 2

Friday the 13^th Part 2

Director: Steve Miner

Year 1981

Friday the 13^th Part 2 is a rather successful and straight-forward sequel to the 1980 hit horror flick, Friday the 13^th. Continuing the story from the bloody aftermath of the first film, Part 2 generates that same toxic atmosphere and gory love lust that the original possessed while bringing on board a whole new group of victims to toy with. Extremely moody and wholly set in its era, this outstandingly entertaining slasher has a great cast of characters and an ample set of interesting kills, adding up to an extremely enjoyable romp in the now famous Crystal Lake.

The film begins five years after the horrible events at Camp Crystal Lake, with a whole new group of camp counselors preparing for the start of a new season at an adjacent camp. Everything goes according to plan, that is until a stranger in the woods begins to stalk the young counselors, murdering them one by one. Could the legend of Jason Voorhees be true? Could he have survived his tragic drowning as a child and witnessed the murder of his mother a mere handful of years ago, which consequently forged a hatred and insatiable blood lust inside of him over the years which is finally now being unleashed upon the cursed people of Crystal Lake? Apparently, yes. There's only one real question to ask. Who will survive this death cursed town?

Friday the 13^th has a smorgasbord of characters within its diverse ranks, and each one seems served to meet a cold and harsh death. In true slasher fashion, the cast is made up of stereotypical fodder who ultimately exist to be taken out by the iconic killer Jason Voorhees. Still there are a few standouts who really shine in their individual roles. Amy Steel takes on the role of Ginny Field, the central player of the piece who is the only one who believes that the legend of Jason Voorhees is real. Steel gives Ginny a feisty personality, which helps differentiate her character from the rest of the pack, yet she still has an underplayed feel to her that allows her to come off as genuine. Heroically portrayed and able to mix it up in a horror setting, Steel gives a great performance for the series.

Aside from Steel, the rest of the cast sticks to their mold almost too perfectly. John Furey takes on the role of the typical boyfriend Paul Holt, Kirsten Baker plays the short shorts wearing eye-candy Terry, Stuart Charno goes off on a limb and portrays the extremely nerdy Ted, Marta Kober and Bill Randolph take on the sex craved teens Sandra and Jeffrey, Russell Todd valiantly embodies the pretty boy trouble maker Scott, Tom McBride plays the wheelchair bound athlete Mark, while Lauren-Marie Taylor hones in as his love-sick admirer Vickie. They are predictably stereotypical, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially in an 80's slasher flick. Each one of them fits perfectly within the genre, and their various antics and untimely deaths are all the more interesting. Of course I can't forget Walt Gorney as Crazy Ralph, who reprises his iconic role from the first film in the same fantastically creepy way, including famous catch-phrase, “You're all doomed!”

If you are a fan of the series, then of course you know that this is where Jason Voorhees truly debuts and what an unusual introduction it is. Void of a hockey mask and covered by a sack of all things, Voorhees is still as creepy as ever, and it's interesting to see this early depiction of the iconic character before he really blew up on the horror cinema scene. I for one had the backward experience of viewing all of these films in a somewhat reverse nature, seeing that I didn't get fully introduced to the character until in my teens when the series was already up to part 9. With that being said, I always found it interesting to see this early iteration of Voorhees as some backwoods hillbilly with a sack on his head. It's strange and unsettling, but it fits perfectly against the overall approach of the original, making for an intriguing linear flow that maps out the growth of this ever expanding horror series and its larger than life killer star.

As for the atmosphere of Friday the 13^th Part 2, it successfully captures the succinct and haunting tone of the original. With its secluded camp setting, its genuine dread, and its vivid practicality in showcasing one horrific kill after another, Part 2 mirrors the magic of its predecessor without cheapening it to a run of the mill, pale imitation. Though it runs through the same formulaic attributes of the original, it still maintains its own sense of self worth by expanding on the mythology of Crystal Lake and introducing us to a badass killer in the form of Jason Voorhees. He may not have the iconic hockey mask, but the terror and mayhem that he leaves in his wake is just the same. Though lacking in Tom Savini's in your face special effects, it still manages to maintain a voice of its own, one that is bloody, savage, and oh so much fun.

Friday the 13^th Part 2 is a highly enjoyable flick. Churning out that same quality that made the original such a smash hit, director Steve Miner and company play it safe for the most part, as they attempt to expand on the mythos of the Friday the 13^th universe. Jason Voorhees' introduction is one that is most unexpected, and I'm sure that during the film's debut that his appearance in the flick was quite a shock to the pace of the series. The diverse cast of characters are another nice aspect of the production, with the stereotypical bunch coming off as likeable and wholly memorable.

The inclusion of the original's Adrienne King in the beginning of the film and being able to witness her continued story, is another nice touch that starts things off with a bang, consequently introducing us to the new baddie of the series. It's a hard task to be able to match the quiet and unsettling atmosphere of the original, but the filmmakers give a great effort in maintaining a seamless transition between each entries. With its high body count, unforgettable characters, and powerful mood, Friday the 13^th Part 2 is a worthy successor to the highly heralded originator of the series. If you haven't watched it in a while, give it a go. It's as fun as ever. Friday the 13^th Part 2 is.....

You know what I'm going to say motherfucker!

Hey asshole!

Camp Crystal Lake? Sounds like a fun place.

Oh sweet sassafras!

Ralph! Nooooooooo!

Words to live by.

This guy is just so kooky.

They really need to put up a Voorhees Crossing Sign on this road.

Living in the lap of luxury.

Please hammer don't hurt em!

Look what I caught.... a pervert!

Shout! Shout! Let it all out! You tell them Tears for Fears.

Look ma.... No poop stains!

Now that's just wrong Jason!

Sorry to wake you Sack Man.

Say cheese! Now that's a keeper!

Ginny you back stabber!

How about a hug!

REVIEW: Friday the 13th

Friday the 13^th

Director: Sean S. Cunningham

Year 1980

Friday the 13^th is the epitome of the 80's slasher. Gory, wild, and full of atmospheric dread, this granddaddy of the genre is a moody force benefiting from a fresh-faced young cast and an impressive effects department. Spearheading the trademark archetypes of the slasher genre, the film moves headlong into what would soon become a cinematic phenomenon, spawning countless imitators and a generation of horror fanatics. A classic in its own right, Friday the 13^th earns its iconic status as it has just the right amount of mood and horror to unsettle you, as it does character and lasting charm.

The film follows a group of camp counselors as they prepare for the coming season at Camp Crystal Lake to begin. During their preparations they are stalked by an unknown assailant and are picked off, one by one. But who could this mysterious murderer be and could it have something to do with the tragic death of a young camper in Crystal Lake's past? With so many questions there's one thing for certain, and that is that this place has a death curse!

Friday the 13^th, like all entertaining slasher films, has a great assortment of characters to help mix things up. Adrienne King rises to the task as Alice Hardy the surprisingly resilient counselor that proves too hard to kill. King is an interesting choice, as her character pretty much blends into the background during the early moments of the film and doesn't stand out until most of the cast has been killed, but I guess that lends to the fact that these were the early years of the genre, when things weren't so cliché and predictable. King does a great job as she gives a tremendously underplayed performance, playing the quiet and conservative young counselor and her genuine take on the character is rather impressionable.

The real memorable characters of the film are the supporting cast, as they show the more wild and promiscuous sides of the group. Lining up the various victims we have Kevin Bacon as Jack Burrel, Jeannine Taylor as Marcie Cunningham, Robbi Morgan as Annie, Harry Crosby as Bill, Laurie Bartram as Brenda, and Mark Nelson as Ned Rubinstein. Each of these actors feel natural and credible as a group of teenagers, and that combined genuine tone gives the film a believable foundation to support the gruesome things to come. Now truthfully there's nothing outstanding about the individual performances, it's just that they are played so authentically and naturally that it aids greatly in making the world of Friday the 13^th seem tangible. As for the performance that really explodes the film into motion, that credit would go to Betsy Palmer as Pamela Voorhees. Her character's dual personality is a thing of demented beauty and she really takes charge of the film when she bursts onto the scene. Off kilter and truly devilish, Palmer goes out on a limb to really inject a sense of dementia into the mix, giving stark realization that this film and its subject matter are quite out of their mind.

Aside from the cast, the real stars of Friday the 13^th are the atmosphere, locations, and special effects. There's nothing as potent as a secluded camp in the middle of no-where, aside a still lake, and this production makes great use of this tried and true scenario. The imagery and ambiance of the movie is top notch, often becoming so overpowering and weighty that you find yourself being sucked in to the visuals. This is all balanced perfectly with a pace and approach that is somewhat laid back and observant. In almost a voyeuristic way, the film allows us to become comfortable with our main characters and the spaces that they inhabit, often allowing for great moments of silence to engulf the scene as potential victims investigate a strange noise in the back of a dark and foreboding room.

The silence and restraint of these instances are tremendous precursors to the inevitable violent and bloody deaths that are sure to come, and special effects artist Tom Savini does wonders on ending them on high memorable notes. Necks are slit, skulls are chopped, throats are punctured, and heads are decapitated, all in glorious practical presentations that will make you cringe in disgust. Extremely effective and gruesome to boot, Savini's work in Friday the 13^th is a memorable footnote in what would eventually be a legendary career in the horror genre. With its spectacular atmosphere and iconic imagery, Friday the 13^th is without a doubt a stunning intro to what would eventually be a most interesting series of murders, mayhem and masochistic fun!

Friday the 13^th is credited for starting the slasher genre, but in essence it was pulling off of a very storied history of horror films. Black Christmas and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre are truer to starting the trend, but it was Mario Bava's A Bay of Blood that really set those killer wheels in motion in the first place. Mirroring the tone and feel of Bava's 1971 murder opus, Friday the 13^th brought the iconic set up into the 80's and from there the sub-genre set ablaze with countless imitators and handfuls of outstanding efforts. With its cast of characters and memorable deaths, Friday the 13^th upped the ante on what would eventually become the norm within the genre, marking its place as the cream of the crop.

The film's immersive atmosphere and undeniably vivid effects work aided in bringing the world of Friday the 13^th to life and in the process making Camp Crystal Lake seem like a real life place where horrible things can and will occur. Toppled onto that are the genuinely presented characters of the film, which also serve to keep that same sustained believability factor intact. It may be an over the top and violent affair, but the filmmakers make great efforts in easing us into the mayhem by slowly absorbing us into the world and quietly setting up the scares. The build up and payoff are enormously effective and the end result give way to a film that for me will always maintain its classic status. If for some reason this essential slasher has slipped through your fingers, then you owe it to yourself to witness the film that started the 80's slasher craze. It may not be high art, but it is extremely potent. Friday the 13^th is the undisputed.....

Shouldn't one of you assholes be watching the road? Hey Assholes!

What a strange time to be saying the Pledge of Allegiance.

Is that a hotdog in your speedo Kevin Bacon, or are you just happy to see me?

Stache and handkerchief.... Badass!

Hold it right there Tonto.

Did I mention that this place has a death curse?

Here's for that ridiculous boner Bacon!

She's got a splitting headache. Wakka, wakka!

The stache gets the chicks every time.

Sweet! It's a wet night gown contest!

Get that lens flare out of my face! Who the hell do you think you are, J.J. Abrams?!?!

Not looking so good buddy.

I make the same face when I have to take a shit too.

Hi there!

Psychotic Staring Contest.... GO!

Hi everyone. Just hanging around.

Stop right there or I'll shot you in the baby baker!

Mrs. Voorhees showing her, "Oh Shit" face.

TRAILER: Kill Kringle Kill

Hey everyone, I've got some more Trailer Obscura goodies for you to munch on. This time it's a Christmas themed slasher flick called Kill Kringle Kill. It's the sequel to last years Tis the Season to be DEAD, and follows the crazy and psychotic holiday hating Henry Kringle as he starts out on yet another, blood filled massacre.

As usual, there's no shortage of camp and the thing is played out like a grindhouse feature with trash, grunge, and all. Let's not delay this train wreck any longer. Check it out for yourself and feel the holiday horror of.... Kill Kringle Kill!


Kill Kringle Kill Trailer by jayskitstar

REVIEW: Halloween 2

Halloween 2
Director: Rick Rosenthal
Year 1981

Halloween 2 is an exceptionally faithful sequel to the John Carpenter directed classic, starting off mere seconds after the events of the first film. As Laurie Strode is taken to the hospital to be treated for the traumas she endured in the first movie, Dr. Loomis and Sheriff Brackett search the neighborhood for the death defying Michael Myers. After being shot SIX TIMES, miraculously Myers escapes the crime scene, aiming to finish the job and track down Laurie by any means necessary.

The film starts out in such an amazing and almost calming way, with long and extended takes of Myers passing through the neighborhood as police sirens wail and cop cars begin searching up and down every nook and cranny of the quiet little town of Haddonfield. It's a perfect reflection of the slow pacing of the first film, mimicking the patient build up that got the classic set in motion, but then violently everything comes to an abrupt moment of sheer chaos when Loomis thinks he spots the famed killer and begins to chase the fiend across an already chaotic scene of scared suburbanites. What follows is one of the most masterfully accomplished surprises in sequel history, making me feel quite sad for the poor kid who decided to wear a jump suit and faded William Shatner mask for his Halloween costume. Damn that is one hell of a way to go!

....And after a thorough examination.....

Yep.... Yep..... This fucker's dead!

Damn! This startling scene sets in motion the tone of this sequel, while basically summarizing the entire notion of the first film, and that is that no one is safe on Halloween when Michael Myers is set loose upon the world, specifically Haddonfield. With all the pandemonium from the first film spilling over into the second, we get one of the first kills being that of an innocent trick-r-treater. The crazy thing is that it's not by the hands of Michael Myers, but from the paranoid actions of Dr. Loomis. What a hell of a set up.

After that explosive scene, we are then shown where the remainder of the film will be located and that is at the local hospital where Laurie Strode has been taken. Much like the residential streets of the first film, The hospital hallways serve as a hunting ground for Michael Myers. Each room of the hospital almost represents the houses that lined the streets in the first movie, inhabited by a whole new group of young and unexpecting victims. Strangely enough, the atmosphere of the hospital mirrors the empty streets of the first Halloween perfectly, giving off that unsettling feeling of solitude. The decision to correlate the two individual locales was just plain brilliant, keeping the simple aesthetics of the first film intact while giving the audience a familiar setup, but with a totally different location for the mayhem to take place in.

You need a snuggle buddy?

Michael you little pervert.

Another great decision on the filmmakers parts, was keeping the intensity of Donald Pleasence's character, Dr. Loomis, intact. By instilling an almost rabid sense of urgency within his character's mind set, he basically aids the hysteria of the moment, causing more of a problem for the already overworked and stressed Sheriff Brackett. In the first film, Loomis spent a great deal of effort in trying to convince the Sheriff that his quiet little town was in serious danger. After experiencing the horrible events first hand, we would naturally expect Sheriff Brackett to now listen to whatever Dr. Loomis says and follow him without question, but because of Loomis' wreck-less abandon in pursuing his white whale, Michael Myers, he's become an almost equal threat to the town's safety.

All of this is made all the clearer after his accidental accusation of the Michael Myers dressed trick-r-treater that led to that innocent kid's explosive death. This in effect allowed the same head butting that occurred between the two saviors of the town in the first film to continue into the sequel. If it wasn't for that pinnacle event, there would most likely be a more peaceful existence between the two as they hunted for their same goal, the capturing of Michael Myers. Instead, that event skewed the characters into two opposing factions. One that wanted to capture Myers, but within reason and without endangering the lives of any more people, against the other faction who wanted nothing more in the world to end Michael Myers even if a few lives were snuffed out in the mix of things.

The duality of the situation and the dichotomy of their group of avengers was brilliantly accomplished with that specific chain of events and made for a better story in my opinion. When I saw the film for the first time, I came away from that scene thinking that it was brutal as all hell, but in retrospect I now can see the ripple effect that changed the rest of the film into something much more substantial. Great stuff.

Did I remember to turn the stove off? I turned it off SIX TIMES!

Jimmy, what a numbskull.

It also seems like the violence and graphic nature of the film was also cranked up a bit compared to its predecessor. Usually that's the case when a film as classic as Halloween is assigned a sequel. In general, the director and producers feel the need to out-due the previous iteration, but luckily the bar was only raised slightly as not to eclipse itself too far from the world that John Carpenter had created in the first film. We get a subtle addition of bloody kills and nudity, but nothing so shocking to make us think that we've stumbled into a gore encrusted Friday the 13th entry.

The decision to step up the violence a bit more, but keep it at a moderate level, was a rational adjustment. We often forget, after viewing so many slashers that have come into existence since the first entry in the Halloween series, that the actual first film wasn't very bloody at all. That concept I mentioned earlier about upping the ante, was some of the main thinking forces behind Halloween's competitors. By slasher standards, Halloween has always been a series that lent its success more to the atmosphere that it created rather then the amount of blood splashed across the screen. Halloween 2, catering to this tradition, keeps the bloodletting to a moderate amount while flirting with that concept of the more gore, the merrier.

Good job nurse. Time to give you a raise.

Jamie Lee Curtis snuck into the Suspiria set. You little sneak.

As mentioned previously, the main core of the cast reprise their roles with Donald Pleasence playing Dr. Loomis, Charles Cyphers playing Sheriff Brackett, and of course Jamie Lee Curtis playing Laurie Strode. In the sense of Curtis' screen time, she doesn't really factor into the equation until the later half of the film, but when she does it's a tension filled game of cat and mouse played within the confines of a maze like series of hospital hallways and endless corridors. Her timid portrayal in the first film is nothing compared to her traumatized depiction of the now battered and beaten Laurie Strode. Weary from a night full of surviving the constant attacks from her estranged brother, the Laurie in this film is that of a drugged lunatic, fighting on instinct. The weight of the night's battle is quite evident and Curtis does a tremendous job in making the viewer feel her pain.

On the other side of the coin, both Pleasence and Cyphers do a great job in continuing their already established character's motives, with Cyphers bowing out earlier then Pleasence, but not without leaving a few lasting impressions. Pleasence's Dr. Loomis has a great deal more to do in this film, yet his actions mirror his movements from the first film by having him follow in the footsteps of the famed killer. The detective work that leads him to the hospital and the obstacles that he must overcome in order to make it there in time to save Laurie, is entertaining to see play out. Dr. Loomis the law breaker, who would have thought. All in all, the cast is stupendous, including the fresh meat that Michael Myers gets to slice into and choke the life out of. The film is just a perfect continuation of an already perfect horror film.

How do you like your Michael Myers? Medium or well done?

So long Jamie Lee Curtis. See you in twenty years.

Halloween 2 is a sequel that matches the intense atmosphere of the original, while upping the ante in a number of areas. The kills are a little bit bloodier and the nudity is a little bit... nudier, but the director and crew never forget that blood, gore, and nudity, were never an emphasized thing in the first Halloween. It was the atmosphere of the holiday of Halloween and the silent moments of Michael Myers stalking his prey that really made an impression on the audience, myself included.

In this entry, they've kept the things that work and made a comprehensive continuation of the first film that seamlessly begins where the first film leaves off. If you loved the original Halloween, then it's highly likely that you'll dig the second one. Hey, it's four more days until Halloween so get to watching!

5 out of 5 stars        One Hell of a Sequel to a Classic Slasher Film.