Tiny Terrors Day 6: Leprechaun (1993) and Leprechaun 2 (1994)

Here, we are at the end of our second week of Tiny Terrors. This week, we had a nice look at the beginnings of each of our three franchises (Child's Play, Puppet Master and Leprechaun). It's been an interesting one - even with me switching up to two films per day after Monday. The best part of it is that it allowed me to group the entries into different themes. This will pay off on Monday when we take a look at Child's Play 2 and 3. 

Today, we are back to our old friend the Leprechaun. After last week's entry with his cousin Jeff, we are now seeing the title character himself. Join me as I express my thoughts on Leprechaun 1 and 2. 

Leprechaun was released in 1993. It was written and directed by Mark Jones and released by Trimark Pictures. This was the first film that was made in-house for a theatrical release from Trimark Pictures. 

The film's story is an interesting one. It follows a Leprechaun as he searches for the love of his life. He is very broken about it. And he does not know what he shall do without the love of his life - his pot o' gold. It's a very touching story...almost a romantic comedy in a sense. But tis a story as old as time. 

Well, that's the way the Leprechaun sees it. In truth, he's a cold, vile, evil, sadistic creature that will go on a rampage to find his gold. Unfortunately this rampage has him terrorizing the new resident of a house, Tory (Jennifer Aniston) and the three guys helping fix the house. Well, it's more like two and a half - Nathan (Ken Olandt), Ozzie (Mark Holton) and Alex (Robert Hy Gorman). Now, they must find a way to last the night against the Leprechaun. 

The cast in this film do a great job. It's very interesting considering that this is Jennifer Aniston's film debut. She doesn't have a problem showing the valley girl/spoiled brat persona in her performance. It's a bit of a layered performance in a way. And towards the end of the film, she doesn't necessarily play a girl in distress. Ken Olandt delivers a solid performance as the straight man to Mark Holton and Robert Hy Gorman's characters. He's the serious of the three that's taken a bit of a liking to Aniston's Tory. There's also some chemistry between them. Mark Hilton's Ozzie is phenomenal. He is a very straightforward character with a huge heart of gold. He is the film's heart in a way. He's the one that we want to protect and not see any harm come to. There is a genuine sincerity to his performance. And it's what elevates the character of Ozzie to a memorable one. And then there's Robert Hy Gorman's Alex. He's the youngest of the three. At times, however, he displays a maturity to where it feels like he's taking care of Nathan and Ozzie instead of the other way around. The friendship between Alex and Ozzie is also so well done. It could have easily been done where it was vast amounts of cheese. However, it's a genuine care between the characters that is displayed so well. 

And then, we have Warwick Davis as the Leprechaun. It's easy to see why his performance is held up so high. It's the amount of fun that is on display. At this point in his career, Davis hadn't had a lot of meaty roles. I mean there was Willow. But what I mean is a performance that is so layered by the amount of fun Davis has in the role. It's like a huge spark to the film. It's honestly one of the reasons why there had been so many sequels in this series. Seeing what Davis does with each turn as a Leprechaun is awesome. He is always finding something new to showcase about the character. Plus, he gets to have fun playing a rotten character. 

Originally this film was meant to be a very straight horror film. However as filming continued, it began to become apparent that it was dipping it's toes into the horror comedy genre. Plus if it had been so straightforward as a horror only film, it would have lost some of its charm. It's the way the Leprechaun moves about the screen that makes it so fun. It's a very welcome addition to horror comedy. There is some gore in the film. It was to the point where it's been said that there were reshoots to add more gore to the film. It was a way of reaching a more adult audience. 

It's very clear to see why Leprechaun has lasted. It's fun. It doesn't take itself too seriously. And it's Warwick Davis wonderful performance that has people coming back for more. 

Rating: 5 out of 5.

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After the success of the first film, a sequel became a no brainer for Leprechaun. This was something that was beginning to show it had some legs to it. And it wasn't just another brief entry in 90s horror. However, this was the last film in the franchise to receive a theatrical release. The remaining films were all released direct to video. 

Leprechaun 2 was released on April 8, 1994. This was a very fast tracked sequel as the original had released in October of 1993. It was written by Turi Meyer and Al Septien and directed by Rodman Flender. 

While this is a sequel to the first film, it's unclear if this is the same Leprechaun as that first one. None of the characters that survived from the first film return. This is a very stand apart film. Honestly, this helped set the tone for the Leprechaun films being more anthologic in it's approach. Wait, is that a word? Screw it, it is now. 

On his 1000th birthday, a mean Leprechaun gets to choose a bride by making her sneeze three times, then she's his...only the bride he chooses is the daughter of his slave (who fouls up the wedding). So the Leprechaun must wait until his 2000th birthday to claim the woman of his nightmares. The descendant of the woman he wanted to marry already has a boyfriend: a brave young boy named Cody, who lives with his swindler uncle Morty and together they run a tour company called Darkside Tours. 

Leprechaun soon wakes up, kills a bunch of people and kidnaps his bride to be. It's soon up to Cody to save her, and only wrought iron can destroy a Leprechaun. Morty has an idea, but it soon goes horribly wrong when he gets too greedy. Cody ventures into Leprechaun's home to save Bridget, but little does he know that a leprechaun's home has many surprises.

It's amazing at how quickly this film was put together. They kinda don't make these much like they used to. When I revisited this film, the thing that struck me was how similar it felt like Part 3 to me. Whenever I think about the sequels, my brain tended to mash Part 2 with Part 3. 

When compared to the first film, the Leprechaun is given more to work with. More chances for him to be diabolical. I mean come on, there's one death involving the lawnmower. That's a pretty brutal way to go. There's a bit more definition to the Leprechaun. They knew what was working and just dialed it to 11.

I honestly wish I could say more for the rest of the cast. Besides Davis, who delivers another outstanding performance. The rest of the cast feels there for the body count and more generic. It's a bit bad as I can't recall now exactly who was in the film. 

I know this is a short take on the first sequel, but there's not much more to work with. It feels like this was rushed to capitalize on the success of the first film. And it shows a little.

Rating: 3 out of 5. 

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Road to Halloween Kills: Halloween Inferno - The Boogeyman Cut

Welcome back to Road to Halloween Kills! When we last left off, we had revisited Halloween (1978) and Halloween (2018). 

When Halloween (2018) ended, we were faced with a whole new world. I mean Laurie and her family got away from Michael. They proved he was just a man. And they were able to lock him in the basement of the house while it was burning. 

That was a great way to end the story. Absolutely iconic. And trying to figure out how Michael could have survived. It would be such a wait for Halloween Kills due to COVID. But the hype and excitement was there. Everyone was waiting to hear what could happen next. 

I found a great way to tide us over till October when Kills is finally unleashed upon the world. Over at Coleman Films, they took the time to give us a good idea of what could happen next. 

This was in the form of a fan film called Halloween Inferno. When this was released, it was released in three parts. Eventually it was pieced together in it's entirety under The Boogeyman Cut. 

I remember catching the first part when it was released. At the end of it, I was sold on seeing how this would turn out.  I am happy to say that it delivers a solid take on continuing the story from Halloween '18. 

One of the best thing that this film does is that it expands the world that was established in the Halloween '18. 

Here, we are given more time with the Sheriff Barker (Issac Thompson Jr.). At first, he's just trying to look the other way. He almost doesn't want to admit that Michael has returned. But slowly as events begin to become more tense, he realizes truly what has come to Haddonfield. Thompson Jr.'s performance is great. We are also introduced to the daughter of Will Patton's character from Halloween '18. This was a welcome addition. It also adds another layer to Will Patton's character by helping flesh out this world. It also illustrates how much of a force Michael is and anyone can get caught up in it.

Now, I don't want to dive too much into spoiler territory with this one. Yeah, it's been out for a little bit now. But it's fun going in blind. 

The kills that happen in this film, they showed more of the Michael we loved in Halloween '18. The more brutal. The more visceral. When Michael strikes, it's quick and precise. 

It's interesting that they show the burnt mask from the ending of Halloween '18. This was released a bit before anything from Halloween Kills released, as far as I know. So, the cool thing is seeing how close they got it. Yes, we end up getting the classic mask. However, to me, Michael was at his strongest with the burnt mask. It's the striking imagery that helped. Plus, it helped add something distinct to the character. Not that I am going to knock the classic mask. It just felt a little off seeing a version of the classic back in a more cleaned up look. I am probably just being a little nitpicky.

Overall, Halloween Inferno works. It works as a solid story that gave us an idea of where things could go next. The Boogeyman Cut is the definitive way to experience this as well. It takes all three parts of the film and edits them into one cohesive beast. If you get the chance, I recommend it. It's great and is a nice way to spend some time till we finally see Halloween Kills.

Halloween Inferno can be found on YouTube.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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He Will Find You: The Empty Man

The Empty Man. These were the three words that piqued my interest. 

Lately, there have been daily recommendations for The Empty Man on HBO Max. With each passing day, it seems to be receiving more recommendations. It's a very interesting phenomenon. It took me back to late 1999/early 2000 when The Ring was being talked about so much. 

The Empty Man was directed and written by David Prior. It was based on the comic by Cullen Bunn and Vanesa R. Del Rey. If you would have told me that it was based off a comic, I honestly wouldn't have known. I have yet to check it out. However, after viewing the film, I am super interested to see how different it is. 

So the tale of The Empty Man, when you are alone on a bridge at night. If you find a bottle and blow into it and think of The Empty Man. You will summon him. On the first day, you will hear him. On the second day, you will see him. On the third day, he will find you. It's a children's story. A fable. One that cannot possibly be real. However, this film goes on to make you think long and hard on this.

We are introduced to four travellers in Bhutan - Greg, Ruthie, Fiona and Paul. Paul begins to hear a whistling sound. It's drawing him in. While attempting to investigate, Paul falls into a cave. Greg rescues Paul after witnessing him staring at a strange skeleton, but before he does - Paul gives a warning "If you touch me, you will die.". 

They uncover a small house that's been abandoned. With Paul now comatose, the others begin to worry. With each passing moment, the weather takes a turn for the worse. They are stranded. 

The next day, Ruthie sees a strange figure and is chased by it. The strange figure is a spirit of the strange skeleton from the cave. Later that night while Ruthie is asleep, Paul begins to whisper things into her ear. 

The next day, Paul is missing. After searching, they find Paul sitting at the bridge. He is attempting to summon The Empty Man. Ruthie now is hearing the whistling. It's drawing closer...closer... Ruthie attacks her friends and sends herself backwards into the abyss...leaving Paul there alone. 

This opening...man is it a perfect film. It could have been cut and released as a short. It is so good. So pure.  I was hooked onto every minute of what was happening. And that alone was only the first twenty minutes to the film. This was a 2 hr and 17 minutes film. 

The film the opens up and we meet our main character, James Lasombra (James Badge Dale). He's a former cop and is still grieving over his late wife and son. He's working at a security store. He comes home to find a young girl, Amanda (Sasha Frolov), checking on him. She's the daughter of a friend of the family, Nora (Marin Ireland).

The next day, Amanda has gone missing. The only thing remaining was a phrase written on the bathroom wall "The Empty Man Made Me Do It". James begins trying to uncover the events of what happened to Amanda and where is she. 

Now, I'm not going to spoil what happens next. That was be a massive disservice to this film. The film is a special one. It's one that kept me thinking about it long after. I have even went over a few of the articles with David Prior. He had mentioned that there are more than one way to view the film. And I definitely agree with it. The film has replayability that changes the way you see it with each rewatch.

I know when I go for a rewatch the film will be different. 

Each person that watches the film will be able to take something different away from it. For me, this is the first film in a long long while that I will say broke my brain. I was trying to figure out what was happening and found myself lost in it likes James. 

In a sense, this film has an Alice in Wonderland quality to it. The further James goes into things, the more the story spins in a different direction. Or there were times where I found myself pulled in different directions. This resulted in a journey that I never expected. 

By the end, I was left open jawed. This is a film that I will remember for a long while after. It is one that I definitely feel like it was underrated when it was released last October. However, it is finding it's audience and continuing to do so each day. Here's to hoping one day that we will get a physical media release of this. 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5. 

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Tiny Terrors Day 5: Puppet Master (1989) and Puppet Master II (1990)

Welcome to Day 5 of Tiny Terrors! This week I had decided to cover the films in the way that they were released. And for the first time, I am switching to covering 2 films at a time. 

Child's Play set the tone and laid some ground work for what people expected from a film with a killer doll. Child's Play was pretty successful when it was released. The studios could see that horror was still big. Though, it was starting to slow down a little bit. Charles Band created Full Moon Pictures and crafted a deal with Paramount Pictures to release a few horror films on the cheap. 

This led to the release of Puppet Master. Puppet Master was written by Kenneth J. Hall and Joseph G. Collodi, directed by David Schmoller, and produced by Charles Band. Puppet Master was a small budget horror title that Band felt would be more successful in the video stores than a theatrical release. And sure enough, his instinct proved to be right.

The film focuses on a group of psychics that attend a wake for their late friend. Unbeknownst to them, there are a group of small puppets living in the hotel that don't take kindly to their presence. Soon, the puppets begin to stalk them one by one. And it all leads to the discovery of a lifetime. 

This film over the years has found itself as a cult classic. It does a bit right. The pacing of the film feels good and never like it's lagging behind. The psychic characters are all okay. I mean, they serve their purpose. It's not like they are going to win any awards. They do seem to be having a bit of fun with the schlocky B-material they are given. 

However, it feels like the Puppets are the standouts here. They are what everyone is coming to the film for. And they do not disappoint. 

We have Blade, Tunneler, Pinhead, Jester and Leech Woman in this first film. They each have something that makes them distinctly unique. Blade is the leader in a sense. He's dressed in black trench coat with the hat, the ghostly grin on his face, one hand is a hook and the other is a blade. He's almost like a noir detective in a sense as he spies upon his prey as well as checking the perimeter in the prologue. Next up is Tunneler. He is very unique as he has a drill attached to his head. But he's dressed as an army soldier. If Blade was the recon specialist, Tunneler is one of the men in the front line. Then we have the muscle, Pinhead. He's a brute force in this lineup as he's very much dressed as a thug with his sweater, pants and fingerless gloves. He also knows how to throw a hell of a punch. Then there's the Jester. Jester is an interesting one as he has revolving faces to emit different expressions. He's a lively one of the bunch as well. His weapon of choice being a mallet as he doesn't necessarily possess brute force or quick on his feet. Finally, we have our leading lady of the Puppets..the siren herself, Leech Woman. She definitely doesn't possess any strength. However, her specialty is more....sensual. She spits out leeches onto her victims with a distinct sensibility about the whole thing. 

The kills in the film are all fine. They obviously were on a low budget. However, that adds so much charm to the film. Even adding to the charm of the puppets, the techniques they utilized for them are extraordinary. It's honestly something that is hard to replicate in modern times. So it feels like a bit of a lost art to it.

When the reveal happens, it's something that still feels cheesy. Their friend who had committed suicide was not dead. He was using the Puppets to get back at his friends, one by one. This honestly was the weakest part of the film. And it also led to a few sequences where the film would enter a dream like state. 

Overall, this film is a fun ride. It's easy to see why this is considered a cult classic. And it's a nice callback to a much simpler time - the time when video stores walked the earth. 

Rating: 4 out of 5. 

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Thought we were done? Amateur. We were just beginning. Here are my thoughts on Puppet Master II: Toulon's Revenge. 

After the success of the first Puppet Master, the studio asked Charles Band for a follow-up. Quickly, Toulon's Revenge was put together. And it does show a bit.

Toulon's Revenge was released on VHS in 1990. It was written by David Pabian and directed by Dave Allen. Charles Band once again would produce the film.

So, watching these two films back to back. It led me to see how much of a formula there was in these two installments. Both of them follow a similar pattern revolving around parapsychologists this time around. And also involving a reanimated Toulon corpse. (Where have we seen that one before?)

The Puppets now have reanimated Toulon using a vial of green formula. Toulon's main motive in the film is to find a way to animate two mannequins. One for himself and the other for his beloved Elsa. Kinda sweet and romantic...if it wasn't for the reanimation process turning Toulon into a raging psychopath.

This plotline is largely the biggest addition to the story from the first one. Again, if it ain't broke - no need to fix it. That's again why the film was able to come together so quickly. 

So, the Puppets are hunting down people to collect pieces of their brain. So then, it can be used to create a vial for the mannequins that Toulon is hoping to transfer himself into. Makes perfect sense to me. 

Honestly, if you enjoyed the first one. It's almost safe to say that the second will be enjoyed as well. And the addition of Torch is a welcome one. He has a very unique firebug approach to his personality. Even going as far as torching a child off screen. (The comics are highly recommended as we get to see more human qualities to the Puppets as they are transfered to human bodies once again. I mention this because the realization of how old Torch's spirit is fitting.)

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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Check back on Friday for Leprechaun 1 and 2. 

Tiny Terrors Day 4: Child's Play (1988)

Growing up, I watched the Child's Play films a lot. There was something about the idea of Chucky the Killer Doll that I tended to gravitate towards. It was probably that it was a little less serious than the Elm Streets, Friday the 13ths or Halloweens. It was more over the top. This was something that definitely couldn't happen in real life. However, with my look at the remake last week - that was more plausible. 

Now, Child's Play came out on November 9, 1988. It was written by Don Mancini and then by Tom Holland, who also directed the film. It starred Catherine Hicks as Karen, Alex Vincent as Andy, Chris Sarandon as Detective Mike and Brad Dourif as Charles Lee Ray/Chucky. 

The story was a simple one. Charles Lee Ray had a heist go bad. His getaway driver leaves him behind to be pursued by Detective Mike and a gun fight ensues. Mike continues to pursue Charles to a local toy store. At death's door, Charles has no way out - with the knowledge of a voodoo spell, he transfers himself into the body of a Good Guy Doll. 

After that setup, we are introduced to young Andy - he's celebrating his birthday by making breakfast in bed for his mother. However, being 6 years old, Andy's focus is on the tv where he sees a Good Guy series. Waking his mother up, they open up his presents but Andy doesn't see what he was hoping for - a Good Guy Doll. 

During her shift, Karen's friend/coworker Maggie informs Karen that there's a Good Guy Doll being sold by a man out back in the alley. Oh man, how could that go wrong? That's some serious sketchy shit. Determined to appease her ungrateful son (I mean come on, his mom works many shifts to take care of him), she buys it for him.  

Upon returning home, Karen gives Andy his last birthday gift - the Good Guy Doll. Excitedly, he takes it out of the package and it begins working. He shows his Mom how it works and we learn that the doll's name is Chucky. Maggie takes the time to watch Andy while Karen has to finish working a double at her job. 

When it's time for bed, however, things begin to happen. Chucky turns on the tv to watch the local news. However, Maggie has had enough and wants Andy and Chucky to go to bed. I mean, who can blame her? She got out of work to help her friend out. It doesn't seem like she's had some time to unwind from her day yet. 

Investigating the apartment after hearing some spooky noises, Maggie finds herself flung out the window to the pavement below. As Karen returns home, she discovers the police and finds Detective Mike questioning Andy. The main clue to what happened being small child sized footprints in the flour on the floor of the kitchen. Smart thinking, Detective Mike. Andy keeps saying it was Chucky that did it.

The next day, Karen takes Andy and Chucky to school. However this is a short trip for them, as soon as Karen is out of eyesight - they leave school. Somehow, they take the train to a bad part of the neighborhood where the getaway driver is residing. Andy steps away for two seconds to go pee somewhere (Really? That's breaking the law. Also why has nobody stopped Andy before this point?). Chucky steathily enters the house of the getaway driver and starts the gas of the oven. The getaway driver (I forgot his name, okay.) ends up shooting into the kitchen sending the house into an explosion like no other. Andy luckily wasn't too close to the house while he was looking for Chucky outside. 

Karen is called down to the station and finds Andy. He's being talked to by the police. They would like to keep Andy overnight at a hospital. Karen goes home and has a heart to heart with Chucky. As she is about to fling the doll into the fireplace, Chucky comes alive and bites her arm before taking off. She later goes to Detective Mike and shows the bite. She explains the batteries for the doll were still in the box and Chucky is alive. Detective "I play the part of skeptic" Mike refuses to believe her. They separate their ways while she goes to investigate more about where the toy came from.

It leads her back to the man that sold it to her. He tries to take advantage of her and have a good ol' time before being interrupted by Mike. They find themselves on their way to Dr. Death, the man who taught Charles voodoo. However, Chucky pays Dr. Death a visit. Oh, by this point, Mike believes Karen's story after being assaulted by Chucky too. 

Dr. Death informs Charles that he will be turning human and he needs to transfer himself into the first person he shared his secret with. There was honestly no other way I could phrase that without it sounding dirty and wrong. Chucky kills Dr. Death with a voodoo doll.

Mike and Karen then realize they need to protect Andy. Chucky infiltrates the hospital and kills the psychiatrist that was being a douche to Andy. Andy escapes and returns home. All points lead to everybody returning home. Chucky and Karen fight after Mike got knocked out. Chucky thrown into fireplace and set aflame. It's all riveting stuff here, folks. 

Andy discovers Chucky's burnt remains as he's still alive. Andy fights Chucky. And it all comes down to Detective Mike saving the day by shooting Chucky's head. 

Hooray, everyone's safe and sound. A happy ending. 

After watching the franchise so many times growing up, this revisit hit me differently. I wasn't as engaged with things. The charm that had made me love the film was fading. Then it hit me, I don't enjoy the original Child's Play that much anymore. It's because I'm able to see the little details that irritate me about the film. It's still a good film, mind you. I just realized that all the scenes that I loved and thought were in the first film. Well, they actually are in the second. 

The characters are okay. Chucky is the standout and star. That's to be expected. Brad Dourif really put all he had into this character and it shows. It's also why it's so hard to think there could be a Chucky without him. Though, Mark Hamill did a nice spin on things in the remake. The adult characters felt a bit daft. And again, that's understandable. That's supposed to be that way. Its what provides so much tension as Andy finds himself alone with nobody believing him till it's too late. And Alex Vincent did an incredible job with his performance. He really helps sell that it's all happening. Detective Mike feels a bit 80s copish. A bit shallow. And again, he fits that stereotype so well of cops in films. It's only after learning the truth that we see Chris Sarandon open up his acting skills. Before that, it's all by the book and no nonsense. 

I also recently remember hearing about how Don Mancini had a very different take on the film. It was a pitch that had sold the film. The pitch being that Chucky had synthetic blood and didn't come alive till Andy shared his blood in a blood brothers ceremony. So before then, Chucky was a regular doll and then Andy made him come alive. And through that, it was Andy's subconscious acting out cause he wasn't seeing his mom as much. And his parents had just gotten divorced. So he was trying to process everything and just wanted it to be him and his mother. So then, Andy was the murderer in the end. This whole pitch was fantastic. It was so good. To think how differently things would play out if that had happened. Part of me wishes this would have been the way that the reboot had gone. Though, I did enjoy the reboot a bit. 

Overall, this film is good. It's a decent start to the franchise. I mean, things have to start somewhere. And this helped lay the foundation upon which this franchise flourished with. I mean come on, how many franchises get a tv series? This is a bit of a big franchise now.

If you haven't seen it and want to see where things started, check it out. If you're new to the franchise, check it out. 

Rating: 3 out of 5. (Decent start)

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Come join us on Wednesday as we talk about the original Puppet Master (1989). 

Welcome to Crystal Lake: Friday the 13th (2009)

Platinum Dunes. They began the remake wave that had flooded Hollywood in early 00s. They had a hand in bringing new takes on Texas Chainsaw Massacre that consisted of two films, the Amityville Horror and The Hitcher. Each one of these were largely successful. My favorite probably being The Hitcher. They took the original ideas and amped them up or reimagined them completely. At the time, it was my first experience with Texas Chainsaw Massacre. 

After a few years, Platinum Dunes announced that they'd be working with Paramount and New Line Cinema to bring us a new Friday the 13th. I was excited about it. I had seen a couple of the Friday films, but hadn't seen all of them yet. So it was interesting to see what they would do. 

Well, for one, they gave us a Friday the 13th that may be considered the best in the franchise. This is a rollercoaster of a film. It covers a lot of ground in it's runtime. Even more so if you are watching the Unrated Extended Edition of the film. To some, it could even be considered a Greatest Hits of the franchise that remixes situations and events from the first four films.

The film opens with a black and white flashback to the night in 1979. The night that is so infamous in the original film. Alice is on the run from Mrs. Voorhees. Then they come face to face and Alice decapitates Pamela. Honestly I was a bit surprised they did this. It covers the original ending so fast and swift. That before the audience has time to think, it's already over. But the thing that is different this time around is the perspective of the events. With it being in black and white, it already even sets it apart from the rest of the film. I partially believe it as if it's Jason's memory of the events. As by the end of the sequence, we do see a young Jason picking up Mama's head and machete to exit stage right. And the idea that a young Jason didn't drown and was still alive. That was a small bit of a game changer with the lore. 

Next up, we are introduced to our characters in present day. They are hiking the Crystal Lake woods. They decide that it's time for a break and set up camp. It is here we get a fun recap of the Legend of Jason. Two of the kids decide to go for a walk to just get away and some air. They happen to uncover the remains of Camp Crystal Lake. Eventually, they happen across Jason and have to make a run for it. The best part or this film is that they are not shy of saying that not everyone will make it out alive. Quickly and brutally each of our characters are dispatched. Yes, there is a new take on the sleeping bag kill. And it is pretty awesome. 

This whole opening - it is a film unto itself. It gives you a beginning, middle and end to these characters. Short, simple, effective...the fact that only one character, Whitney, made it out alive sets the tone for what is to come. 

Now, we are finally introduced to our main group of characters. This is like a half hour into the film already. By this point, I can see why some people may check out of the film. It already set up things twice to quickly subvert expectations. Well, that and allow time to just let Jason do what he does best. Back to our group of characters - Trent (our weekend host), his girlfriend Jenna, Nolan and Chelsea, Lawrence, Chewie and Bree. They run into Clay, who is looking for his sister Whitney. There are quite a few characters. And all, besides Clay, fit the horror genre stereotypes. Ya know what they are, by now. So I'm not going to rehash. They've been roughly the same for so many years now. 

Trent is a complete douche. He thinks he's untouchable and can do no wrong. His whole plan for the weekend seemed to try to woo Jenna into sleeping with him - which was the whole reason he invited their friends to his father's house for the weekend. After his plan fails because of his mastery in douchebagness, Trent ends up hooking up with Bree. The whole purpose of Bree's character in this film is to be the easy one. 

Lawrence and Chewie. They are here to party. And smoke a lot. They are our stoners. Lawrence wants to become a rapper and picked the wrong weekend to join this band of misfits. Chewie just wants to enjoy life, make peace and smoke as much as he can. 

Nolan and Chelsea. They are super simple. Probably the most simple out of the whole group. They are just there. There's not much to their characters. And thats probably for good reason as they are the first to encounter Jason.

Jenna. Trent's girlfriend. However, she just gets sick and tired of his shit. She sees that he's a douche. Especially after they treat Clay badly because he just tried asking for help to find his sister. I don't think there's much more to Clays character either. He's a nice call back to Part 4. They go look for his sister together. Clay kinda makes eyes at Jenna as well. 

Then there's Jason. He grew up to be a bit of a woodsman. He is quick to punish those that step foot on his property. This take has a bit of smarts. He was able to create a series of underground tunnels and paths that span the entire campground. He also sets a few traps for his victims. He also is so quick and a unrelenting force. The times we see Jason run in this film are awesome. Plus he has some weapon skills - he could win an archery and axe throwing contest for sure. This is kinda what I was hoping for from a modern take on the character. 

The deaths in this film are pretty great. They definitely fit in with the other films. Some even going as far as recreating or amplifying previous deaths in the series. I would say that Jason using Lawrence to try to lure the others out, by leaving him with an axe in his back. That was pretty awesome. I think the most shocking death to me was Jenna's. I was hoping that she would make it to the end..however in the tunnels, she was unsuccessful. It was quick and unexpected. The same could be said for the Sheriff, as Jason drops down and stabs him in the head. The most fulfilling death, by far, Trent. Trent deserved it so much. He was a douche. He only cared for himself. He treated everyone like shit. When he was thrown onto the back of the tow truck, I cheered. Almost every time I cheer. 

Now, there's something that a lot of people have problems with. Jason keeping Whitney chained up and alive. Oh, but it goes against Jason's character. No..no..no. It doesn't. In Jason's mind, she reminds him of his mother. It makes sense that is why Jason would want to keep her near him. Because at this point, his mother's head had been decaying. So maybe he was beginning to forget what she looked like. Maybe with time, he was losing his mother. Losing the memories he had of her. So, with kidnapping Whitney, it reminded him of her love and of her. It kept those memories at the forefront of his mind. To me, this makes sense. 

Also, they created an awesome unmasked look for Jason. It is super creepy. They spent a lot of time on this concept it seemed. If they spent time doing it, why not show it off more. I get that we got bag mask and the hockey mask. These are both iconic looks for the character. However, the unmasked look that I have seen for this Jason. It surpasses both of those looks for me. It's a shame and a missed opportunity. Especially considering the most time we have seen this look is through photos, behind the scenes footage and the NECA figure. 

The actors and actresses all around did a fantastic job with the material. The largest standout is Derek Mears. He brings so much in his physicality and presence. He is so terrifying. It's a shame that this never received a sequel. I hope that whenever the legal battle is settled that we can see Derek return to the role. It's a character that he seems to love so much.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

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It Was Only A Dream: Nightmare On Elm Street (2010)

A Nightmare On Elm Street. It is a film that has a lot of meaning to a lot of people. For me, it was one of my initial entries into the horror genre. It absolutely changed the way I looked at films as I grew up. With each new viewing, there was a new layer that would present itself. And to this day, as I find myself now a parent and growing older. I find myself now viewing the parents side of the story. Honestly, there's a whole film that could work beautifully if it was explored from the perspective of the parents. 

When Friday the 13th (2009) was released, I enjoyed it a lot. It paid a lot of respect to the franchise. When I had heard that Nightmare On Elm Street was next to be reimagined, I was ecstatic. I was sold on the film because I wanted to see how they would approach the material. 

Then the next set of news came, Jackie Earle Haley was to be Freddy Krueger. I was floored. I had seen him in Watchmen as Rorschach. It was fantastic. Rooney Mara was announced as Nancy. As each new casting was announced, I kept getting more excited for the film. I mean, come on we get Clancy Brown in an Elm Street movie. 

I remember following every single bit of news that was released. That's how excited I was for this film. I would read the set visits at least three to four times. 

Then I remember sitting in the theater on opening day. The film began and I was pulled in. But something felt off. Something wasn't right..this was Elm Street. But again, something wasn't right. 

After some time, I began to think about the film. I've spent a lot of time thinking about it. This has been a piece that I've been working on for the last two weeks. And I thought 'Well you are visiting Crystal Lake for Friday the 13th. Why not make a pit stop at Elm Street to make your peace?'. 

So here it is. It's going to be brutal. It's going to be honest. It's going to be in depth. It's going to be my thoughts on Nightmare On Elm Street (2010). 

Nightmare On Elm Street (2010) should have been a bigger hit. It should have been a better film that it was. It should have been something memorable. It should have been what the original film was to us to a whole new generation. It should have reinvigorated Freddy Krueger, not kill it.

Yet, here we stand. It's been eleven years. We have not seen a sequel. We have not even heard a mention of Fred Krueger - no, a cameo on The Goldbergs doesn't count. 

It's not Samuel Bayer's fault. It's not Wesley Strick or Eric Heisserer's fault either. No, the large part of the blame for the 2010's problems lay with the studio. But that's getting ahead of myself here. 

Alright, here's the cliff notes for the film:

- Dean (Kellan Lutz) chilling at diner. Hears noise. Inverstigates and jumpscared by Freddy. Wakes up and talks to his ex, Kris (Katie Cassidy). She goes to bathroom. Dean micronapped by Freddy to death. 

- Nancy (Rooney Mara) is a waitress at the diner.

- Kris' boyfriend Jesse (Thomas Dekker) is a tool.

- Quentin (Kyle Gallner) is friends with Jesse and eyes for Nancy. 

- Following funeral, Kris learns they all knew each other back in preschool. 

- Freddy begins nightcreepin on Kris. 

- Jesse stops by to comfort Kris. 

- Freddy nightcreeps again and recreates the Tina death from '84. 

- Jesse runs for it and creeps to Nancy. Tells her what happened then arrested by cops.

- Jesse locked up and is sleepcreeped to death by Freddy. 

- Quentin and Nancy talkin. 

- Nancy asks Mom (Connie Britton) if they knew each other back in preschool. Mom denies. 

- Quentin micronaps Freddy's burning while at swim practice. Confronts his Dad (Clancy Brown) and told to drop it. 

- Nancy visited in tub by Freddy and then sees Preschool. 

- Quentin and Nancy go on their own, after a hospital trip. Quentin snags adrenaline. Nancy micronapped by Freddy in pharmacy. 

- They go to preschool. Find Freddy's creepy spot. Learn how sick Freddy is and what happened to them. They confront Freddy and bring him out of dream. Kill him. 

- Nancy and Mom returns home. Nancy sees Freddy in mirror, who then pulls Mom into mirror. 

That's basically the movie. All the hot points of it. Sounds like a bland movie to me. 

What happened? Studio started questioning the decisions made by the creatives of the film. They started getting cold feet at the feedback from test screenings. They order reshoots and said do it this way. 

In the years since the film's release, it's been documented how much was cut from the film and what that was. After I heard the details, it pains me that this is the version we received. 

There was an original beginning that focused on a pool party. It's a nice call back to Part 2. It would have seen Kris and Nancy seeing Dean on rooftop talking to himself before leaping off of it. If it was done right, this would have been a hell of a way to open the movie. Much better than the way it opens now. 

There was also another beginning. It showed a burnt patient in a hospital. But then we see him flatline. The assumption being that this was supposed to be Freddy. This one never sat with me really. It's a simple beginning, but it doesn't provide any details or worth to the audience. And it's not like we would be able to connect with Freddy because we don't know who it is at first.

There was a different version of Kris' attic scene. Instead of Freddy jumpscaring Kris by lunging at her, it would have been a more slow tense scene. While shes investigating the attic, she shines her light and comes to a set of boxes. Behind the boxes, a figure with a hat stares at her.  That's definitely more creepy than what we got. 

Another notable scene would have been Freddy confronting Kris in his candlelit lair. It sounds like in the original script that there was a lot of mentions towards a candlelit lair. For me, it would have been an interesting approach. Instead we received the same ol' same ol' boiler room approach in the dreamscape. 

Actually that's something that I'm going to talk about right now. What the hell with this film? Why couldn't we get a more unique design for the dreamscape of Freddy? Why did it have to be so bland and cookie cutter? I understand that it's modeled after the preschool. But it just felt like there wasn't enough of a memorable design to it. At least if there'd been a candlelit lair, that could have been cool. It would've been different approach. 

During a dream sequence, Nancy would have been tormented by Kris, whose mouth was blood filled and she was sinking in blood. This was one that I didn't feel like we missed anything. It would have still felt like an homage to the original film. But ultimately one that would have been unnecessary. 

There was also sequences with Quentin. It would have been as if Quentin would have been called to the candlelit lair with each of his dreams. Ultimately by the end of the film, it would have led Quentin confronting Freddy in a dilapidated church. Honestly, why wasn't this a thing? Oh wait, it's because they wanted to 'remake' the original and that meant we had to have Nancy. Gotta follow that through. Play it safe in a way. 

Honestly, looking back at all these different things that were cut. It would have added a lot to the film. It would have given the film a unique approach and visual style. It would've been a bit of a risk. It probably would have had a bit of depth to it. However, it would have to be better than what we got. 

Now with what we got, I will say that I do still enjoy it to a degree. I liked that they added some more personality to Nancy's character with her drawings. It definitely added to the character and helped define it for this version. I liked Quentin as a character. It was interesting seeing Freddy's burning through Quentin's POV in the dream sequence. Jackie Earle Haley as Freddy, I enjoyed a little. The concept of micronaps. This was something that I am 100 percent behind. This felt like a breath of fresh air for the lore. It made sense that we would see some negative effect for forcing yourself to stay awake for so long. It added a sense of tension. Plus, I loved the pharmacy scene with Nancy slipping in and out with Freddy pursing her. 

Outside of those things, there isn't much to like. The rest of the characters felt very shallow. 

Kris and Jesse both were very underutilized. They were shallow and honestly a bit forgettable. The only reason why they are in the film is because they are the same as Tina and Rod. That's it. They serve the same purpose that we have seen before. There's nothing that's unique for them. Nor is there any use of them outside of Nancy.

Quentin's Dad. I love Clancy Brown. I remember hearing when he was initially cast, he was supposed to be playing Nancy's Dad - the Sheriff. That would have been awesome. Yeah, I know it would have had one more connection to Nancy. However, if you gonna have it following Nancy and already doing it - double down on your plans. 

There are really not many set pieces either. It's all very bland. There's no personality to it. And ultimately a bit forgettable. The film does rehash the Freddy coming out the wall (bad CGI), Tina death, Nancy in the tub, Freddy killing Nancy's mom (much better in this version) from the original. 

Also why? Why did they feel the need to show that Freddy actually committed those things. Why? What purpose did it service? Absolutely nothing. It would've hit harder if it would have been revealed that it was the kids that had lied about it. Yeah, it would have given Freddy more of a sympathetic feel to him. But it would have felt more earned. Instead, we get Yeah, Freddy did those things. They were right about him all along. Which honestly doesn't feel different from Freddy in the original series. It's more of a subtle way covered. But it's basically the same way.

The ending did feel like it could go into more interesting territory. I wouldn't have minded a dip into Dream Warriors feel for a sequel.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5. 

(I'm going to keep telling myself that it was only a dream...)

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Tiny Terrors Day 3: Puppet Master The Littlest Reich

Hello everyone, welcome to our third installment of Tiny Terrors. So far, we have managed to survive Chucky being a diva and been introduced to Leprechaun's cousin, Jeffrey. So far, so good. I hope everyone managed to make it through so far in one piece.

We have made it to the installment that a few people have been waiting for. Welcome to Puppet Master Fridays! 

As you all know, this has been a bit of an up and down week in terms of technology working properly for me. Originally this was to be the one that started it all. But Chucky somehow managed to derail that to take the spotlight. Wow, what a shocker. 

So far, the Puppets have all been relatively quiet about that development. I mean Pinhead just keeps groaning and pointing at Chucky. Blade keeps dropping his jaw hissing while slashing with his knife hand. Guess Chucky managed to piss them off after all. Here's to hoping that World War Toy doesn't erupt from this...

In 2016, it was announced that Puppet Master would be the next to receive a reboot. It was time to start fresh. But once again, Charles Band made it known that he was going to continue his original line of films as well. The more Puppet Master the better seemed to be the way of thinking. 

This time it would be written by S. Craig Zahler, the director of Bone Tomahawk. This was the thing that began the train rolling on the reboot train. It continued to pick up steam as it was announced Sonny Laguna and Tommy Wiklund would be directing the film. The hype for the film continued as the cast was announced - Thomas Lennon, Nelson Franklin, Barbara Crampton and Udo Kier would be playing Andre Toulon. This is a pretty huge cast for a relatively small film. Or at least I considered it to be a small film till I saw the budget, this thing was made for half the budget of all the other films put together. This thing is huge. Plus, it was the first film in the Fangoria Presents banner. 

The hype for the film was at all time high for me. I was ready for it. I was ready to go in with an open mind. However, something happened once the film began. The nostalgia and love I have for the original series of films began to color my view of this installment. I found myself just taken aback as I kept comparing it to what came before. Ultimately, this led to me hating the film so much. 

With some time passing, I took a deep breath as I sat down to watch it again for this look at the film. I was not going to let the nostalgia glasses effect my views of the film this time around. 

The Littlest Reich begins with introducing our new Andre Toulon (Udo Kier). He's visiting a local Texas bar in 1989. He's attempting to engage the bartender in a relationship of sorts. Her partner does take some offense to this and Toulon expresses his disgust towards them. Clearly this is not the same Toulon that we are use to. 

On their way home, the bartender and her lover are attacked by Toulon's puppets. A rookie cop follows Toulon back to his home and discovers his nefarious plans. Toulon is shot...

Then we are brought to present day, Edgar Easton (Thomas Lennon). Edgar is a man full of ambition. Full of hope...nah, he's a big old slacker that is getting over a divorce and had to move back home. He's a loser. But he's a loser that we can get behind and root for.

Edgar attempts to put his life back together and manages to reconnect with his childhood crush, Ashley (Jenny Pellicer). Somehow. Well, she's a bit damaged too. Edgar also has to deal with his boss, Markowitz (Nelson Franklin). Markowitz is a bit full of himself. Actually, he's very confident. Too much at times. 

After searching through his younger brother, who recently passed, things and finds a puppet. It is this versions take on Blade. Edgar's search uncovers a convention celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Toulon Murders. Edgar, Ashley and Markowitz go to see what everything's about. 

Once there, they meet the officer (Barbara Crampton) that had put Toulon down. However, it's not long after that a strange force begins to reanimate the Puppets causing all hell to break loose. 

This is our basic story for the film. It's a good story. I mean, I know there would be some pressure to find a new take at the material. Puppet Master is something that does have a bit of a following. And it could have easily went downhill. However, it doesn't. It knows what kind of film the fans are looking for. The only big thing that did not necessarily click with me is seeing Toulon at the end. It felt so off. Especially considering he's turned into a zombie. It was a huge left turn for me.

The characters are all pretty great. Our main three (Edgar, Ashley and Markowitz) are ones that I found myself relating to. And therefore, I wanted to see them make it out safely. Though, the relationship between Ashley and Edgar felt a bit fast paced. But I chalked it up to it ultimately being partially a rebound. However, this is a Puppet Master film and that ain't going to happen. Another huge standout is the local hotel's bartender, Cuddly Bear (Skeeta Jenkins). This here was someone that as soon as he appeared on screen was awesome. I honestly don't know how else to describe Cuddly Bear. He's that great of a character.

The Puppets. This is an interesting topic for me. In the original series of films, these were the attraction. They still are to an extent. In The Littlest Reich, they have returned to their more evil roots. However with the change of them being Nazis, it takes that evil roots and multiplies them well past 100. They aren't the heroes. They will attack, kill and do whatever they damn well please to anybody. There are at least two moments where there are things that happen to children. And it helps show the difference in this new take and the old. Even when they were evil in the originals, they still had souls. Well besides when Torch torched the child in the second film. 

In this film, we are shown a few of the iconic puppets that we do know. Blade, Tunneler, Torch and Pinhead. They are different and more grounded take on what they would be. Well, even with Blade, there are multiple versions of the Puppet. Like there are a lot of Puppets in this film. Besides the OG four, we get Happy Amphibian, a robot/drone, a jack in the box of death, and a little baby Hitler puppet. Each of these new puppets are interesting. They do represent the idea of Toulon as a Nazi well. And all of the Puppets get their moments to stand out. 

When the Puppets get their moments to shine, it results in gore. Good lord are there lots of gore and lots of strong imagery. Again, there was one moment that when it happened - I was very surprised and disgusted by it. It's possibly the one time in the film that I thought they took it too far. And for those wondering, no it's not the scene with a guy getting head decapitated in bathroom. If you are looking for a film with gore. You will get it here. 

The ending for the film was another area that I wasn't a fan of. Having Toulon return as a zombified self. It felt very much a call back to the second film perhaps. But overall, I was left with thinking Really..that's where we are going with this. And yeah, it also comes at the expense of Ashley. I wasn't thrilled with it. But it did help Edgar further his journey. But it left things open for a sequel. 

To this day, we have not received one. I still holding out hope we will. Cause Z-Toulon takes his puppets and exits stage left. I want a sequel where we have Edgar go after Toulon. There is more to this story and where it could go. Would this film work as just a single one off? I guess. 

Rating: 4 out of 5.

(Wish would have gotten a Nazi take on Six Shooter and Leech Woman. But maybe if there was a sequel. The ending felt like written into a corner a little bit.)

Here we are, we finished out week 1 of Tiny Terrors. Join me as I will be revisiting the original Child's Play on Monday.

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Tiny Terrors Day 2: Leprechaun Origins

Well, we did it. We successfully managed to make it through our first installment. Only downside of it all was that Chucky was a huge diva. He somehow had heard that he wasn't our first choice for the first installment. The rest of the time consisted of him just continuing to monologue and declaring that He's the best there is and I'm Charles Lee Ray. Ugh...

I had hoped that Leprechaun wasn't going to be as bad. However, that was a bit of wishful thinking. He tried hiding in Leprechaun Returns. When I finally found him, I told him that we had to watch Origins cause he was in it. "Tis not I", he declared. "What?" "Tis my cousin Jeffrey.", He informed me, "He needed the part.". 

So there you have it. It was all Jeffrey, who just happens to look like a creature from The Descent. 

In 2014, the WWE Studios partnered with Lionsgate to bring the world Leprechaun Origins. This was written by Harris Wilkinson and directed by Zach Lipovsky. 

By this point, Leprechaun had been to Space. He had also gone to the hood....twice. With each installment, it felt like it was going further down the rabbit hole of Russian roulette with the franchise. And the fans weren't exactly feeling it. So the next step was to reboot it. 

As the continuing tradition has been, what do you do when you reboot? Why you recast and make something different, of course. Warwick Davis had played the Leprechaun for the previous six installments. He made the character iconic as he brought so much to the role. This left it kinda big shoes to fill. 

However, they were able to find someone up to the task. Dylan Postl. He is big in the wrestling world. That's about all I know of him as I am not very familiar with that scene. 

My first experience with this film wasn't a very positive one. This was another franchise I had grown up with. So, it already was facing some big odds as I was used to Warwick Davis. However, as time has passed on. I find myself appreciating Origins. 

It took a good look at the whiteboard that consists of everything Leprechaun and then wiped it all gone. Gone was the bantering of the Leprechaun. Gone was the Leprechaun as we knew him. Gone is most of the mythology as we knew it. 

In it's place, we are left with a different kind of story. This one is more grounded. Well about as grounded as you can get with a Leprechaun in it. It's also a more serious take on the story as well.

Four travellers their way to a local village in Ireland. While there, they encounter the locals who weave a tale that could woo any history majors. Nearby, there is a spot. It rumored to be the cradle of Celtic Ireland civilization. They are offered a place to spend the night then could travel to check things out. It seemed too good to be true

After settling in to their cabin for the night, they hear something outside. Unbeknownst to them, this would begin the longest night of their lives. It's revealed that a Leprechaun is the thing waiting to attack. 

They must survive the night and uncover the truth behind why the Leprechaun is attacking them. 

Looking back on the film, I spent some time wrestling with my thoughts on it. I also took some time to think about the original film. For the most part, I remembered the original had the Leprechaun trying to reclaim pieces of it's gold.  

For the most part, that's about as much in common as those two films share. The biggest change being that it's setting is Ireland and it focuses on a group of travellers. This brought a very Hostel type vibe to the film for me. Yes, we have a Leprechaun. But it kinda looks like an extra from The Descent. I understand this was a small film. And I'm not trying to knock it. It just takes awhile for it to grow on you. If it manages to do so. For some, it will. For some, it won't. 

However, the big reason why Dylan Postl was cast was for his acting using just his body language and eyes. Kinda an ideal person to bring this unique take to life. One that wouldn't be wrong to see in a Grimm Fairy Tale.

Actually that's a great way of explaining the Leprechaun. It's a more folklore based version than before. 

The actors and actresses in this film all do a good job. They make their characters likeable. To the point where I was wishing that some of them would survive. I know I haven't really stated who is in the movie yet. 

This is because the actors and actresses kinda blend into their characters. If that makes sense at all, let me know.

There is some gore in this film. But it's a tad light. It's never in your face. It felt like at one point the film could have been trying for a PG-13 rating. That definitely would explain why they don't show the deaths. It mostly happens off screen. 

As for the Leprechaun, it works. This is a more folklore based take than anything we had seen before. It definitely sets the tone Origins tries to set. Dylan Postl does a great job with what he is given. The performance carries through well when we see up close shots of its head. I know there are some people that wish we would have gotten a vocal Leprechaun. Or something closer to Warwick. 

For me personally, I would have been okay if in this film we got this take. But if it had done well, show the evolution of it. Have the Leprechaun evolve from this Descent dweller into the version that we are used to. It would add a breath of fresh air. And it would have established more to the lore the film is trying to establish.

I would say that this installment isn't necessarily bad. It is a bit misunderstood. A lot of people wrote the film off because it was doing things different. And it's not fair to the film to just write it off automatically. Let's give it a chance shall we? Is this better than the original? No. Is it universally terrible and bad? No. 

Again, just go into the film with an open mind. There are some people that will like it and some that won't. I would say that it would have been nice to see a sequel or hear where they would have taken things. 

Rating: 3 out of 5. 

(Not bad for a rainy day.)

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Stay tuned as we will be exploring Puppet Master The Littlest Reich on Friday. 

Let The Fun Begin: A Chat with G. O. Parsons

Earlier this year, the new horror flick Willy's Wonderland was released. This was a film that had seen Nicolas Cage fighting animatronics from a children's restaurant. I know it sounds a bit Five Nights at Freddy's-ish. However, I am pleased to say that the film is just bonkers in a good way. 

Today, I am pleased to bring to you my chat with the creator/writer of the film, G. O. Parsons. 

What was your introduction to the horror genre?

My cousins and I have been watching horror movies and B movies since I was 10 years old. They were always and are currently my favorite kinds of films. Sometimes we just want entertainment where we don’t have to think. 

What was the inspiration for the film? 

I was trying to further my acting career by making a movie. I had done plenty of plays and wanted to branch out. The easiest thing I could think of done was a horror movie in one location with a hero who didn’t speak any lines. I thought that I would be playing the role and filming all the scenes

The film has a very distinct vibe to it. In some instances it feels like it's inspired by Evil Dead 2 with its over the topness. 

Thank you. Kevin, the director, is a huge fan of the Evil Dead series as am I. So, we certainly wanted to bring that aspect to it.

The animatronics. Where did the idea come from for each of them? 

When I was growing up, I went to a family fun center called Boomtown. It was on the border of California and Nevada. It was very much like Willys wonderland. 

The animatronics a lot of them were influenced by Nick Cage who is a big fan of reptiles and amphibians. He suggested the alligator, the Chamaeleon, and the turtle.

Were you on set much while filming? Did you get to meet Nic? If so, what was it like getting to meet him? 

I was in Europe when the movie filmed. But it was nice to be kept in the loop. Nic Cage is an amazing person and a terrific producer and a fabulous actor. It was a dream came true that he championed the script.

What was it you think that made him just dive right in?

I think that the silent character was what had caught his interest. He had done 100 movies. But he had never done a movie where he didn’t speak. I also think that he was just a fan like we’re all fans. And who wouldn’t wanna be the janitor?

Whose idea was it to have the cleaner (what I call Nic's character) be silent?

It was my idea to have him be silent throughout the whole entire thing. As previously mentioned, I thought I would be playing the part originally. However, it works out in the film. I think the Janitor can speak. But only when he needs to. 

Having films in one location. That's something that's always nice to see. I think it's something that we are beginning to return to with some horror films. 

I think out of all the animatronics the Turtle is my favorite. 

Tito is my Dad's favorite as well. 

Whose idea was it for the Fairy? Is that what she is? Shes very distinct. Almost setting herself apart from the others.

The fairy was one of my favorites too. She was supposed to look like an evil version of the fairy from the children's movie, Ferngully.

How do you feel about the finished film?

The movie turned out nearly exactly as I imagined it. That was a huge victory. 

What are your thoughts on the response to the film?

The response has been amazing. Millions of people know about Willys Wonderland all over the world. And that's a huge victory!

Where does the story go next for the world of Willy's Wonderland?

Up next, we have a prequel comic. It will be 4 issues over the next year.

Do you think we will get a sequel?

I hope there will be a Willy's Wonderland 2. But I don't know yet. It's hard to put the pieces in place.

Will we see more of the Janitor?

Could we see the Janitor in a different type of film? Let's plug the character into other genres and see how he fares?

I agree it would be awesome to see the Janitor plugged into different situations where he has to battle evil. Hopefully that can be explored in some medium, some day. 

Check out Willy's Wonderland on Hulu. It's available on DVD and Blu ray as well. 

Follow G. O. Parsons on Twitter.

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