I always enjoy traveling to new place places. Fortunately my job enables me to visit many places that I might not normally get to. Unfortunately, there is usually little free time and end up seeing more of fancy hotel ballrooms and/or convention centers than the actual city.
In mid January I was able to head to San Diego. And I actually had a couple of nights with free time to check tout the Gaslamp Quarter...however due to the worst rain storms in over 25 years, I was stuck on the hotel property. I was able to partake a few restaurants for lunches, where I tried fish tacos for the first time, and walked around the ballpark.
I really dug the laid back vibe in this city. The melting pot of people were friendly and helpful. And as a single man, I'm not sure that ever seen so many beautiful women. It's easy to comprehend why people move out here. If it wasn't for the mass amount of people crammed into this space, I'd considered it some day. Hell, I still might.
1.30.2010
1.20.2010
Serial Novels: Anno Dracula
Kim Newman has created a series of books which is part horror and part revisionist history. He bases the series on this premise: Dracula and the people in the Bram Stoker novel were real and what would happened if Dracula actual won their battle. From there he starts changing history as humans and vampires live side by side through the 1900's with each book taking a critical point in time (turn of the century 1900, WWI, and 1959).
I find these fascinating reads as Newman weaves facts and fiction to create a unique universe with credibility and ease. Great stuff.
THE BOOKS
1. Anno Dracula
2. The Bloody Red Baron
3. Judgement of Tears (AKA Dracula Cha Cha Cha)
I find these fascinating reads as Newman weaves facts and fiction to create a unique universe with credibility and ease. Great stuff.
THE BOOKS
1. Anno Dracula
2. The Bloody Red Baron
3. Judgement of Tears (AKA Dracula Cha Cha Cha)
1.07.2010
The MAC was burning
I was going to write about this when it happened, but got lazy.
My MacBook had been acting a little weird. Constantly thinking with the spinning wheel of color. It would do for a couple of hours and start overheating. It all started about a month after I installed Snow Leopard. So I uninstalled it and wiped the drive clean, putting back in it's orginal state from 3 years ago. Not a huge deal. But the power was still shaky. It would randomly not be able to charge or use electric power. I pinpointed it to a short in the power cable and dealt with it for a couple of days. On Christmas Eve, the darn thing wouldn't charge again. A messed with a bit and couldn't get it to work. Then I smelt the faint scent of burning. I yanked the power supply from the MacBook and picked it up. Scorching hot! And I finally found the source of the problem. It burned through (see pictures below).
So off I run to BestBuy. Not happy about having to go to retail store on Christmas Eve. I'm in the extremely busy store. I grab the new power supply for a mere $80 (OUCH! that more expensive then I thought) and head to the checkout line which winds to nearly the back of the store. Almost 40 minutes later I check out. It took me a shorter amount of time to get to the store and grab the power supply than it did to pay for it.
Now dont me wrong, I really enjoy my MacBook. But for a computer that costs as much as it did and only being 3 years old, there has been numerous things go wrong since the warranty expired. And most I haven't fixed because it costs too much money. And in all honesty, the computer has been well kept and not over used at all.
1. A thin layer of the surface, near the front edge has peeled away. Almost all the way down the front with the exception of around the mouse pad.
2. The CD/DVD drive went out. Well not entirely. I can play and burn DVD's but it wont read or burn CD's anymore. Dont know why.
3. The power supply burnt up after 3 years.
4. The Snow Leopard compatibility issue.
5. Battery died after 1.5 years
My bitch session is finished now. It'd would just be nice to get a computer, no matter what the cost, either Mac or PC that would hold up. So far, I replace PC's about every 3-4 years and the 3 year old MacBook seems to be falling apart.
My MacBook had been acting a little weird. Constantly thinking with the spinning wheel of color. It would do for a couple of hours and start overheating. It all started about a month after I installed Snow Leopard. So I uninstalled it and wiped the drive clean, putting back in it's orginal state from 3 years ago. Not a huge deal. But the power was still shaky. It would randomly not be able to charge or use electric power. I pinpointed it to a short in the power cable and dealt with it for a couple of days. On Christmas Eve, the darn thing wouldn't charge again. A messed with a bit and couldn't get it to work. Then I smelt the faint scent of burning. I yanked the power supply from the MacBook and picked it up. Scorching hot! And I finally found the source of the problem. It burned through (see pictures below).
So off I run to BestBuy. Not happy about having to go to retail store on Christmas Eve. I'm in the extremely busy store. I grab the new power supply for a mere $80 (OUCH! that more expensive then I thought) and head to the checkout line which winds to nearly the back of the store. Almost 40 minutes later I check out. It took me a shorter amount of time to get to the store and grab the power supply than it did to pay for it.
Now dont me wrong, I really enjoy my MacBook. But for a computer that costs as much as it did and only being 3 years old, there has been numerous things go wrong since the warranty expired. And most I haven't fixed because it costs too much money. And in all honesty, the computer has been well kept and not over used at all.
1. A thin layer of the surface, near the front edge has peeled away. Almost all the way down the front with the exception of around the mouse pad.
2. The CD/DVD drive went out. Well not entirely. I can play and burn DVD's but it wont read or burn CD's anymore. Dont know why.
3. The power supply burnt up after 3 years.
4. The Snow Leopard compatibility issue.
5. Battery died after 1.5 years
My bitch session is finished now. It'd would just be nice to get a computer, no matter what the cost, either Mac or PC that would hold up. So far, I replace PC's about every 3-4 years and the 3 year old MacBook seems to be falling apart.
12.31.2009
Horror Flicks of the Decade
As we race towards the end of the 2000's, it time to reflect on the decade of horror movies.
The early part of the decade we saw the rush of J-Horror and the eventually over saturation that followed. We witnessed as elements of horror brushed out into other genres with much acceptance by general audiences. The middle had slashers ruling the screens which brought the term torture-porn to us all, a phrase which I loathe, and the inevitable rip offs that followed. As we close the decade, the Hollywood system is determined to remake or revision or reimage or redux every horror movie or franchise ever made from earlier decades and from other countries (and do a piss poor job of remaking these films) and turn the genre into all horror-romance tales for the tweens (thank you Twilight).
Looking towards the future, it seems like a tough road for true fans of horror. But all is not lost. We still have several gems coming from the independent scenes. Combine those with the force of great horror movies being made in other countries and a glimmer of hope remains for the 2010's.
So with that rant, let's look back my favorite horror themed cinema treats of the 2000's.
Slither (2006, US) - James Gunn brought his Troma background to a big budget and pulled it off wonderfully in the gross out horror-comedy.
Kairo aka Pulse (2001, Japan) - This atmospheric horror set it self apart from the usual ghost stories from Japan at the time. Watch out for the ghosts in the machine. They want revenge.
The Devil's Rejects (2005, US) - Rarely does a movie make me feel uncomfortable. The hotel scene in this movie did exactly that. This is far gritty and more realistic than any other Zombie flick and in my opinion, by far his best effort to date.
Cloverfield (2008, US) - The movie didn't reinvent the wheel, but it made for a fun ride.
The Descent (2005, UK) - Tough chicks being stalked in a cave by creatures. I'm hooked right there.
Let The Right One In (2008, Sweden) - Possibly the best horror film of the decade. This instant classic sucked you in from the beginning with strong characters and explored the dramatic side of horror.
Jeepers Creepers (2001, US) - Reminds me the old style creature features of yesteryear. It's much better than the usual creature stalking kids movie.
Martyrs (20008, France) - This movie may have sparked on of the largest debates in horror this decade. Complete brutality followed by relentless torture leads to a suicide that asks the question "what did she tell the old lady?".
Versus (2001, Japan) - Zombie, Yakuza, and samurais make a very bloody mess.
Old Boy (2003, Korea) - Revenge, gore, and twists galore. This flick still blows my mind to this day. Not straight forward horror, but there's enough.
[rec] (2007, Spain) - If you're looking for style and atmosphere combined with genuine frights, then look no further than this pseudo-zombie tale.
Feast (2005, US) - This movie is so over the top that it never takes itself seriously. And that's a good thing. A band of people are held down in a bar while creatures try to get them.
Deadgirl (2008, US) - Another one of the movies that simply made me uncomfortable at times. As with a lot of horror movies, explore the depth of what humans are capable of.
Visitor Q (2001, Japan) - Takashi Miike had to make the list as he constantly puts out intriguing films. This one borders horror with a messed up family. His blunt over the top style keeps this disturbing film in check.
Dawn of the Dead (2004, US) - One of the few remakes of the lat decade that holds it's own and bring something unique to the table.
Haute Tension (2003, France) - This film could be the mind fuck of the decade when it comes to horror. Nothing is as it seems in this serial killer story.
Jack Brooks, Monster Slayer (2007, US) - Nothing but good, campy fun in this gem which reminded me a lot of early Sam Raimi.
The Isle (2001, Korea) - A disturbing movie about a guy who killed the woman he loved and a prostitute who wants him. Introduced me to director Kim K-Duk
Mulberry Street (2006, US) - There's not many mutant rat movies out there. This is one of the best.
Sweeney Todd (2007, US) - Tim Burton combines this old legend with the stage play and delivers a tasty treat.
Teeth (2006, US) - A young woman discovers she has teeth in her vagina. A horrific metaphor in this coming of age tale.
The Burrowers (2008, US) - I love westerns and I love horror even more. Here the two two genres cross over seemlessly.
Ils aka Them (2007, France) - There's something I find absolutely chilling about children who rise up and attack the adults.
Shaun of the Dead (2004, UK) - The perfect blend of horror homage and comedy.
Session 9 (2001, US) - One of the most unknown movies in horror. This is true gem of psychological madness.
30 Days of Night (2007, US) - Not a perfect film but in an era where vampires became glossy fun, this brought them back to pure evil.
Devil's Backbone (2001, Mexico) - A tremendous ghost story from the master Guillermo Del Toro.
The Girl Next Door (2007, US) - One of the hardest movie ever to watch which instilled queasiness and rage in me upon viewing. Those emotions more than made up for its short comings.
Dog Soldiers (2002, UK) - A family of werewolves battle soldiers in the Scottish wilderness. Bloody great fun that reminds us of why werewolves are so bad ass.
The Cottage (2008, Australia) - It's nice to see Andy Serkis have a meaty starring role. He shines in this one about two brothers who's plans for a robbery run foul due to a killer.
The Orphanage (2007, Spain) - A creepy ghost tale that sent shivers down my back.
28 Days Later (2002, UK) - This movie changed on the rules on zombies (even though they are really just infected humans). An epic tale of human survival.
Saw (2004, US) - This is the movie that started a fresh horror franchise, created a horror icon in Jigsaw, and helped to coin the much hated term "torture porn". On top of all that, this is one fine movie as well.
Battle Royale (2001, Japan) - Survivor meets Lord of the Flies, only with much bloodier results. I love this film.
Inside (2007, France) - This is one of the most intense films I've ever seen as a pregnant woman fights for her survival against another woman who wants her unborn child.
Dark Water (2002, Japan) - An above average ghost story.
The Signal (2006, US) - The end of the world as told in three uniquely separate but cohesive stories.
May (2002, US) - A lonely girl doesn't want to be lonely any longer. The final scene will stay with you for days.
Bubba Ho-Tep (2003, US) - An elderly Elvis battles a mummy with Bruce Campbell. Does it get any better.
Wolf Creek (2005, Australia) - This movie has one of the best serial killers to ever grace the screen.
The Mist (2007, US) - This movie does justice to my favorite Stephen King short story and even one up it with the ending. Shocking.
Frailty (2001, US) - Another little talked about gem about a family who's father thinks he can see demons and is told by God to destroy them.
Ju-On: The Grudge (2002, Japan) - The eeriest of all the long, hair ghost movies from Japan.
Hatchet (2006, US) - A fun throwback to 80's slasher films with a good amount of gore and just enough comedy to keep things lite.
Splinter (2008, US) - I really dug this creature mutation movie. Great special effects.
Ginger Snaps (2000, Canada) - A teenage girl finds out she's a werewolf and her sister tries to help her. There's a lot more deeper things going on in this tale.
The Eye (2002, Thailand) - A super creepy movie that introduced me to the Pang brothers. Follow it up with the similar, yet complete different Eye 2 for a double treat.
Antibodies (2007, Germany) - This one has a the best psycho villain playing head games with the cop who busted him movies around.
Final Destination (2000, US) - Started the franchise about the supernatural serial killer who will get you no matter what when your time is up. I love this movie for the great kills.
The Stranger (2008, US) - A group terrorize a couple. Very intense. The biggest scare comes in one sentence: "Because you were home".
The Ring (2002, US) - One of the only US remakes to due justice to the Japanese original. In fact in some ways, this even out does the original. The creep factor is ramped up to eleven.
The Hills Have Eyes (2006, US) - It's another remake but again proves with a little heart and smarts it can be entertaining.
Repo: A Genetic Opera (2008, US) - A horror opera? Why not. Catchy tunes, gore, a good story.
Grace (2009, US) - This movie about a mother who's newborn isn't quite as it seems, had to walk a fine line between being serious and turning campy. It does so with amazing results.
There's my list. I'm sure I've forgotton a few. And have yet to see a couple releases from this year yet, such as Trick R Treat, Zombieland, Paranormal Activity. The Children, Orphane. These seem to have been getting a lot of good reviews.
The early part of the decade we saw the rush of J-Horror and the eventually over saturation that followed. We witnessed as elements of horror brushed out into other genres with much acceptance by general audiences. The middle had slashers ruling the screens which brought the term torture-porn to us all, a phrase which I loathe, and the inevitable rip offs that followed. As we close the decade, the Hollywood system is determined to remake or revision or reimage or redux every horror movie or franchise ever made from earlier decades and from other countries (and do a piss poor job of remaking these films) and turn the genre into all horror-romance tales for the tweens (thank you Twilight).
Looking towards the future, it seems like a tough road for true fans of horror. But all is not lost. We still have several gems coming from the independent scenes. Combine those with the force of great horror movies being made in other countries and a glimmer of hope remains for the 2010's.
So with that rant, let's look back my favorite horror themed cinema treats of the 2000's.
Slither (2006, US) - James Gunn brought his Troma background to a big budget and pulled it off wonderfully in the gross out horror-comedy.
Kairo aka Pulse (2001, Japan) - This atmospheric horror set it self apart from the usual ghost stories from Japan at the time. Watch out for the ghosts in the machine. They want revenge.
The Devil's Rejects (2005, US) - Rarely does a movie make me feel uncomfortable. The hotel scene in this movie did exactly that. This is far gritty and more realistic than any other Zombie flick and in my opinion, by far his best effort to date.
Cloverfield (2008, US) - The movie didn't reinvent the wheel, but it made for a fun ride.
The Descent (2005, UK) - Tough chicks being stalked in a cave by creatures. I'm hooked right there.
Let The Right One In (2008, Sweden) - Possibly the best horror film of the decade. This instant classic sucked you in from the beginning with strong characters and explored the dramatic side of horror.
Jeepers Creepers (2001, US) - Reminds me the old style creature features of yesteryear. It's much better than the usual creature stalking kids movie.
Martyrs (20008, France) - This movie may have sparked on of the largest debates in horror this decade. Complete brutality followed by relentless torture leads to a suicide that asks the question "what did she tell the old lady?".
Versus (2001, Japan) - Zombie, Yakuza, and samurais make a very bloody mess.
Old Boy (2003, Korea) - Revenge, gore, and twists galore. This flick still blows my mind to this day. Not straight forward horror, but there's enough.
[rec] (2007, Spain) - If you're looking for style and atmosphere combined with genuine frights, then look no further than this pseudo-zombie tale.
Feast (2005, US) - This movie is so over the top that it never takes itself seriously. And that's a good thing. A band of people are held down in a bar while creatures try to get them.
Deadgirl (2008, US) - Another one of the movies that simply made me uncomfortable at times. As with a lot of horror movies, explore the depth of what humans are capable of.
Visitor Q (2001, Japan) - Takashi Miike had to make the list as he constantly puts out intriguing films. This one borders horror with a messed up family. His blunt over the top style keeps this disturbing film in check.
Dawn of the Dead (2004, US) - One of the few remakes of the lat decade that holds it's own and bring something unique to the table.
Haute Tension (2003, France) - This film could be the mind fuck of the decade when it comes to horror. Nothing is as it seems in this serial killer story.
Jack Brooks, Monster Slayer (2007, US) - Nothing but good, campy fun in this gem which reminded me a lot of early Sam Raimi.
The Isle (2001, Korea) - A disturbing movie about a guy who killed the woman he loved and a prostitute who wants him. Introduced me to director Kim K-Duk
Mulberry Street (2006, US) - There's not many mutant rat movies out there. This is one of the best.
Sweeney Todd (2007, US) - Tim Burton combines this old legend with the stage play and delivers a tasty treat.
Teeth (2006, US) - A young woman discovers she has teeth in her vagina. A horrific metaphor in this coming of age tale.
The Burrowers (2008, US) - I love westerns and I love horror even more. Here the two two genres cross over seemlessly.
Ils aka Them (2007, France) - There's something I find absolutely chilling about children who rise up and attack the adults.
Shaun of the Dead (2004, UK) - The perfect blend of horror homage and comedy.
Session 9 (2001, US) - One of the most unknown movies in horror. This is true gem of psychological madness.
30 Days of Night (2007, US) - Not a perfect film but in an era where vampires became glossy fun, this brought them back to pure evil.
Devil's Backbone (2001, Mexico) - A tremendous ghost story from the master Guillermo Del Toro.
The Girl Next Door (2007, US) - One of the hardest movie ever to watch which instilled queasiness and rage in me upon viewing. Those emotions more than made up for its short comings.
Dog Soldiers (2002, UK) - A family of werewolves battle soldiers in the Scottish wilderness. Bloody great fun that reminds us of why werewolves are so bad ass.
The Cottage (2008, Australia) - It's nice to see Andy Serkis have a meaty starring role. He shines in this one about two brothers who's plans for a robbery run foul due to a killer.
The Orphanage (2007, Spain) - A creepy ghost tale that sent shivers down my back.
28 Days Later (2002, UK) - This movie changed on the rules on zombies (even though they are really just infected humans). An epic tale of human survival.
Saw (2004, US) - This is the movie that started a fresh horror franchise, created a horror icon in Jigsaw, and helped to coin the much hated term "torture porn". On top of all that, this is one fine movie as well.
Battle Royale (2001, Japan) - Survivor meets Lord of the Flies, only with much bloodier results. I love this film.
Inside (2007, France) - This is one of the most intense films I've ever seen as a pregnant woman fights for her survival against another woman who wants her unborn child.
Dark Water (2002, Japan) - An above average ghost story.
The Signal (2006, US) - The end of the world as told in three uniquely separate but cohesive stories.
May (2002, US) - A lonely girl doesn't want to be lonely any longer. The final scene will stay with you for days.
Bubba Ho-Tep (2003, US) - An elderly Elvis battles a mummy with Bruce Campbell. Does it get any better.
Wolf Creek (2005, Australia) - This movie has one of the best serial killers to ever grace the screen.
The Mist (2007, US) - This movie does justice to my favorite Stephen King short story and even one up it with the ending. Shocking.
Frailty (2001, US) - Another little talked about gem about a family who's father thinks he can see demons and is told by God to destroy them.
Ju-On: The Grudge (2002, Japan) - The eeriest of all the long, hair ghost movies from Japan.
Hatchet (2006, US) - A fun throwback to 80's slasher films with a good amount of gore and just enough comedy to keep things lite.
Splinter (2008, US) - I really dug this creature mutation movie. Great special effects.
Ginger Snaps (2000, Canada) - A teenage girl finds out she's a werewolf and her sister tries to help her. There's a lot more deeper things going on in this tale.
The Eye (2002, Thailand) - A super creepy movie that introduced me to the Pang brothers. Follow it up with the similar, yet complete different Eye 2 for a double treat.
Antibodies (2007, Germany) - This one has a the best psycho villain playing head games with the cop who busted him movies around.
Final Destination (2000, US) - Started the franchise about the supernatural serial killer who will get you no matter what when your time is up. I love this movie for the great kills.
The Stranger (2008, US) - A group terrorize a couple. Very intense. The biggest scare comes in one sentence: "Because you were home".
The Ring (2002, US) - One of the only US remakes to due justice to the Japanese original. In fact in some ways, this even out does the original. The creep factor is ramped up to eleven.
The Hills Have Eyes (2006, US) - It's another remake but again proves with a little heart and smarts it can be entertaining.
Repo: A Genetic Opera (2008, US) - A horror opera? Why not. Catchy tunes, gore, a good story.
Grace (2009, US) - This movie about a mother who's newborn isn't quite as it seems, had to walk a fine line between being serious and turning campy. It does so with amazing results.
There's my list. I'm sure I've forgotton a few. And have yet to see a couple releases from this year yet, such as Trick R Treat, Zombieland, Paranormal Activity. The Children, Orphane. These seem to have been getting a lot of good reviews.
12.30.2009
Horror Movies Watched and Horror Book Read in 2009
Here's a list of all the horror flicks I've watched this year. Why? Because I did it in 2008 and I enjoy tabulating meaningless lists.
Just as before, the movie list isn't as bad as it first appears. I get bored easy and tend to fast forward though flicks if its not working for me.
For books, unless I'm really having a hard time getting into the story, I usually read all the way through.
I've also give my rating (out of 5), depending on how entertained I was by the movie or book and if it held my interest. And on occasions, really bad shit holds my attention.
THE MOVIE LIST
1/1 - Left in the Darkness (2006) **
1/2 - Christmas Evil (1980) *
1/3 - The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945) ***
1/4 - The Breed (2007) **
# True Blood, season 1 (2008)****
1/9 - The Fan (1996) **
1/10 - Seed (2008) **
1/12 - The Strangers (2008) ***1/2
1/13 - Jack Brooks, Monster Slayer (2008) ****
1/15 - The Invitation (2006) *
1/16 - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2005) ***
1/19 - Swamp Thing (1982) **
1/21 - The Cottage (2008) ****
1/22 - Death Row (2006)**1/2
# Fear Itself, season 1 (2008) ***
1/24 - Frightmare (1983) *1/2
1/25 - Stuck (2008) ***1/2
1/26 - Captivity (2007) *
1/27 - Shadow: Dead Riot (2006) **
1/29 - Feast 2: Sloppy Seconds (2008) ***
2/1 - Horror Business (2006) **1/2
2/3 - The Vagrant (1992) **1/2
2/5 - ShadowZone: The Undead Express (1996) **
2/7 - Thrist (1979) *1/2
2/9 - Shrooms (2007) **1/2
2/12 - Otto, or Up With the Dead (2008) *1/2
2/13 - His Name Was Jason (2009) ***
2/14 - Lemming (2007) ***
2/15 - Castle Freak (1995) ***
2/17 - Nightwing (1979) **
2/18 - Backwoods (2007) **
2/19 - Haunted Forest (2007) **
2/20 - Prom Night (2008) *1/2
2/26 - SkinWalkers (2007) *1/2
2/27 - Gutterballs (2008)**
2/28 - Saw V (2008) **1/2
3/1 - Dance of the Dead (2008) ***1/2
3/3 - Midnight (1982) *1/2
3/5 - Hide (2008) **
3/8 - Baby Blood (1989) **
3/9 - Neighbor Number 13 aka Rinjin 13-gô (2005) ****
3/10 - Days of Darkness (2007) *1/2
3/11 - Let the Right One In (2008) *****
3/12 - Mimic 2 (2001)**1/2
3/13 - The Substitute (2007) ***
3/14 - The Dead One (2007) **
3/17 - Killer Pad (2008) **1/2
3/18 - Pumpkin Karver (2006) *1/2
3/20 - Ghost Image (2007) **
3/23 - Repo: The Genetic Opera (2008) ****
3/25 - My Bloody Valentine (1981) ***
3/26 - Dead and Deader (2006) **
3/30 - Tokyo Gore Police aka Tôkyô Zankoku Keisatsu (2008) ***
3/31 - A Real Friend aka Adivina Quién Soy (2006) ***
4/2 - Toxic Avenger 2 (1989) **1/2
4/3 - Toxic Avenger 3 (1989) **
4/5 - Phantom of Paradise (1974) **
4/7 - The Enterance (2006) **
4/9 - Trapped Ashes (2006) **
# Dead Like Me, season 2 (2004) ****
4/11 - An Xmas Tale aka Cuento de Navidad(2006) **1/2
4/13 - Phantasm 3 (1993) ***
4/14 - Phantasm 4 (1998) **1/2
4/16 - Mirrors (2008) **1/2
4/18 - To Let aka Para Entrar a Vivir (2006) ***1/2
4/19 - The Baby's Room aka La Habitación del Niño (2006) ***1/2
4/21 - Lake Dead (2007) *1/2
4/22 - The Killing Gene aka WAZ (2007) **1/2
4/24 - Trackman aka Putevoy Obkhodchik (2007) **
4/26 - The Mutant Chronicles (2009) **1/2
4/27 - 100 Feet (2009) ***
4/30 - Timecrimes (2007) ***1/2
5/1 - Splinter (2008) ****
5/3 - Strange Hostel of Naked Pleasure () **
5/5 - Cold Prey (2006) ***
5/7 - Feast 3 (2008) **1/2
5/10 - Face of Another (1966) ***
5/11 - Eden Lake (2008) **
# Heroes, season 3 (2009) ***1/2
5/13 - Retribution (2006) **1/2
5/16 - Blindness (2008) ***1/2
# Dollhouse, season 1 (2009) ***1/2
5/18 - Storm Warning (2007) **1/2
5/20 - Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009) **1/2
# Fringe, season 1 (2009) ***1/2
5/21 - Quarantine (2008) ****
# Lost, season 5 (2009) ****1/2
# Supernatural, season 4 (2009) *****
5/22 - My Name Is Bruce (2006) **1/2
5/23 - Baby Blues (2008) ***1/2
5/24 - Gabriel (2007) **1/2
5/25 - Baghead (2008) ***
5/26 - Laid To Rest (2008) **1/2
5/27 - From Within (2008) ***
5/28 - My Bloody Valentine (2009) **1/2
5/29 - Shuttle (2009) ***
# Reaper, season 2 (2009)****
5/30 - The Last House in the Woods (2006) *1/2
6/1 - Vacancy 2 (2007) **1/2
6/2 - Black Water (2007) ***
# Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Season 1 (1997) ***1/2
6/6 - The Burrowers (2009) ****
6/7- Four Flies on Grey Velvet (1971) ***
6/9 - Donkey Punch (2008) **1/2
6/10 - Max Payne (2008) **
6/12 - The Happening (2008) **
6/13 - Night of the Living Dead 3D (2006) *1/2
6/15 - Butterfly Effect 2 (2006) **
6/16 - The Broken (2009) ***1/2
6/18 - Night of the Comet (1984) ***
6/19 - Walled In (2009) **
6/20 - Eden Log (2009) **1/2
6/22 - Vinyan (2009) ***
# Millennium, Season 1 (1996)****
6/27 - Surveillance (2009 ****1/2
6/28 - Friday the 13th (2009) *1/2
6/29 - Grudge 3 (2009) **1/2
7/1 - Curse of the Werewolf (1960) ***
7/2 - Brides of Dracula (1960) ***
# Harper's Island (2009) ***
7/7 - End of the Line (2008) ***
7/9 - Dark Floors (2008) **
7/10 - Wicked Lake (2008) *
7/11 - Trailer Park of Terror (2008) **1/2
7/13 - The Uninvited Guest (2004) ***
7/14 - Maintenance (2008) *1/2
7/15 - The Lodger (2009) ***
7/17 - Room 205 (2007) **1/2
7/18 - Detective Story (2007) ***
7/20 - [rec] (2007) ****1/2
7/22 - The Devil's Tomb (2009) **1/2
7/23 - No Man's Land: Rise of the Reeker (2008) ***
7/26 - Dying Breed (2009) ***
7/27 - Perkins 14 (2009) ***
7/29 - Autopsy (2009) **1/2
7/30 - Header (2009) ***1/2
# Sanctuary, season 1 (2008) ***
8/2 - Netherbeast Inc () ***
8/3 - 3 Women (1977) ***1/2
8/5 - Slaughter (2008) **
8/7 - Infestation (2009) **1/2
8/10 - Dorthy Mills (20080) ***
8/11 - Alien Raiders (2008) ***1/2
8/12 - Lunacy (2006) ***
8/13 - Unearthed (2007) **1/2
8/14 - Johnny Got His Gun (1971) ***
8/17 - Coraline (2008) ****
8/18 - Wild Man of the Navidad (2009) ***1/2
8/20 - Mum and Dad (2008) ***
8/21 - Death of a Ghost Hunter (2007) ***1/2
8/24 - Shiver (2008) ***1/2
8/27 - Sick Nurses (2007) **1/2
8/30 - Tooth and Nail (2007) **
# Millennium, Season 2 (1997) ****1/2
9/2 - Empire of Passion (1978) ***
9/3 - Dark Rising (2009) **1/2
# Monster Quest, season 3 (2009)
9/6 - Zombie Strippers (2009) **
9/8 - The Invasion (2007) *1/2
9/9 - The Wicker Man (2006) *
9/10 - The Hitcher (2007) *1/2
# Warehouse 13, season 1 (2009)
9/13 - Last House on the Left (2009) **1/2
9/15 - American Zombie (2007) ***1/2
9/18 - Pop Skull (2009) ***
9/20 - Brutal Massacre: A Comedy (2007) ***
# Buffy the Vampire Slayer, season 2 (1997)
9/22 - Fangoria Blood Drive I (2004) **1/2
9/24 - The Deadgirl (2009) ****
9/27 - Children of the Corn (2009) *1/2
10/1 - The Hills Run Red (2009) **1/2
10/3 - Hit and Run (2009) *
# True Blood, season 2 (2009) ****
10/6 - Book of Blood (2009) ***
10/7 - Naked Fear (2007) **
10/10 - The Flesh and The Fiends (1960) **1/2
10/11 - Wrong Turn 2: Dead End (2007) **1/2
10/14 - Forest of Death (2007) **1/2
10/15 - Puzzlehead (2005) **1/2
10/16 - Farmhouse (2009) **1/2
10/18 - Grace (2009) ***1/2
10/19 - Seventh Moon (2009) **1/2
10/20 - Offspring (2009) **1/2
10/22 - The Objective (2009) ***1/2
10/23 - Mad Love (1935) ***1/2
10/25 - ZA: Zombies Anonymous (2005) *1/2
10/26 - Dracula 3: Legacy () *1/2
10/28 - Wrong Turn 3: Left For Dead (2009) **1/2
10/30 - Tokyo Zombie (2004) ***1/2
10/31 - House of the Devil (2009) ***
11/2 - Cradle of Fear (2000) *1/2
11/3 - Citizen Toxie: Toxic Avenger 4 (2002) **
11/5 - Senseless (2009) **
11/8 - Rumpelstiltskin (1995) *
11/10 - Asylum (2007) **
11/11 - The Scourge (2008) **
11/15 - Samurai Princess (2009) **1/2
11/17 - Fausto 5.0 () ***
11/20 - Drag Me To Hell (2009) ***1/2
# The Hunger (1997) **1/2
11/23 - Dark Night of the Scarecrow (1981) **1/2
11/24 - The Last Horror Film (1982) **
11/27 - Blood Moon Rising (2009) **
11/28 - Live Evil (2008) **1/2
# The Prisoner (2009) ***
11/29 - Hide and Creep (2004) **1/2
12/1 - Torture Garden (1968) ***
12/3 - Mother's Day (1980)**
12/5 - Alphabet Killer (2008) **1/2
12/8 - Sauna (2008) ***1/2
12/9 - The Unborn (2009) **1/2
# Tales from the Dark Side, Season 1 (1984) **1/2
12/11 - The Tatooist (2007) **1/2
12/12 - Pervert! (2005) *1/2
12/15 - Three (2007)*1/2
12/17 - Santa's Slay (2005) **1/2
12/20 - The Uninvited (2009) **1/2
12/21 - Red Mist (2008) **1/2
12/23 - Gorgan (1964) **1/2
# Dexter, Season 4 (2009) ****1/4
12/26 - Screamers 2 (2009) **1/2
12/27 - Run Bitch! Run! (2009) *1/2
12/28 - Dead Air (2008) ***
12/29 - Thaw (2009) **
Current TV Series
# Supernatural, season 5 (2009-2010)
# Sanctuary, season 2 (2009)
# Dollhouse, season 2 (2009-2010)
# Fringe, season 2 (2009-2010)
THE BOOK LIST
1. The Girl Next Door - Jack Ketchum (*****)
2. The Long Last Call (****)
3. Conscience - John Skipp (***)
4. The Walking - Bentley Little (****)
5. The Red Dragon - Thomas Harris (****1/2)
6. Shutter Island - Dennis LaHane (****1/2)
7. Cuts - Richard Laymon (***)
8. Children of Night - Dan Simmons (****1/2)
9. Nocturnal - Scott Sigler (****)
10. City of the Dead - Brian Keene (****)
11. Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde - Robert Louis Stevenson (***1/2)
12. The Talented Mr. Ripley - Patricia Highsmith (***)
13. Virus - Sarah Langan (****)
14. The Relic - Lincoln Child & Douglass Preston (***1/2)
15. The Road - Cormac McCarty (****1/2)
16. The Descent - Jeff Long (***1/2)
17. Weaveworld - Clive Barker (incomplete)
18. 30 Days of Night: Dark Days - Steve Niles (***)
19. Blood Stone - Nate Kenyon (***)
20. 30 Days of Night: Dark Days - Steve Niles (***1/2)
21. The Hollower - Mary Sangiovanni (****)
22. The Straw Men - Michael Marshall (****)
23. The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks (***1/2)
24. OffSpring - Jack Ketchum (****)
25. Bloodline - F. Paul Wilson (****1/2)
26. 20th Century Ghosts - Joe Hill (*****)
27. Preacher: Gone to Texas (#1) - Garth Ennis (****)
28. Succulent Prey - Wrath James White (***)
29. Fear - L. Ron Hubbard (***)
30. VooDoo Child - Weston Cage & Mike Carey (**1/2)
31. Left on the Darkside - various authors. John Pealan, editor (***)
32. The School - TM Wright (***)
33. The Tides - Melanie Tem (***)
34. The Sentinal - Jeffrey Konvitz (***1/2)
35. Snake Woman: A Snake in the Grass, vol. 1 - Shekhar Kapur (**1/2)
36. Creepers - David Morrell (****)
37. Contagious - Scott Sigler (****)
38. The 5th Witch - Graham Masterton (***)
39. Mr. Hands - Gary Braunbeck (****)
40. Kiss of the Mudman - Gary Braunbeck (***1/2)
41. Frozen - Jay Bosinga (***)
42. Misery - Stephen King (***1/2)
43. Wise Blood - Flannery O'Connor (***)
44. The Violent Bear It Away - Flannery O'Connor (***)
45. Green Tea - Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (****)
46. Camilla - Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (****)
_
Just as before, the movie list isn't as bad as it first appears. I get bored easy and tend to fast forward though flicks if its not working for me.
For books, unless I'm really having a hard time getting into the story, I usually read all the way through.
I've also give my rating (out of 5), depending on how entertained I was by the movie or book and if it held my interest. And on occasions, really bad shit holds my attention.
THE MOVIE LIST
1/1 - Left in the Darkness (2006) **
1/2 - Christmas Evil (1980) *
1/3 - The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945) ***
1/4 - The Breed (2007) **
# True Blood, season 1 (2008)****
1/9 - The Fan (1996) **
1/10 - Seed (2008) **
1/12 - The Strangers (2008) ***1/2
1/13 - Jack Brooks, Monster Slayer (2008) ****
1/15 - The Invitation (2006) *
1/16 - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2005) ***
1/19 - Swamp Thing (1982) **
1/21 - The Cottage (2008) ****
1/22 - Death Row (2006)**1/2
# Fear Itself, season 1 (2008) ***
1/24 - Frightmare (1983) *1/2
1/25 - Stuck (2008) ***1/2
1/26 - Captivity (2007) *
1/27 - Shadow: Dead Riot (2006) **
1/29 - Feast 2: Sloppy Seconds (2008) ***
2/1 - Horror Business (2006) **1/2
2/3 - The Vagrant (1992) **1/2
2/5 - ShadowZone: The Undead Express (1996) **
2/7 - Thrist (1979) *1/2
2/9 - Shrooms (2007) **1/2
2/12 - Otto, or Up With the Dead (2008) *1/2
2/13 - His Name Was Jason (2009) ***
2/14 - Lemming (2007) ***
2/15 - Castle Freak (1995) ***
2/17 - Nightwing (1979) **
2/18 - Backwoods (2007) **
2/19 - Haunted Forest (2007) **
2/20 - Prom Night (2008) *1/2
2/26 - SkinWalkers (2007) *1/2
2/27 - Gutterballs (2008)**
2/28 - Saw V (2008) **1/2
3/1 - Dance of the Dead (2008) ***1/2
3/3 - Midnight (1982) *1/2
3/5 - Hide (2008) **
3/8 - Baby Blood (1989) **
3/9 - Neighbor Number 13 aka Rinjin 13-gô (2005) ****
3/10 - Days of Darkness (2007) *1/2
3/11 - Let the Right One In (2008) *****
3/12 - Mimic 2 (2001)**1/2
3/13 - The Substitute (2007) ***
3/14 - The Dead One (2007) **
3/17 - Killer Pad (2008) **1/2
3/18 - Pumpkin Karver (2006) *1/2
3/20 - Ghost Image (2007) **
3/23 - Repo: The Genetic Opera (2008) ****
3/25 - My Bloody Valentine (1981) ***
3/26 - Dead and Deader (2006) **
3/30 - Tokyo Gore Police aka Tôkyô Zankoku Keisatsu (2008) ***
3/31 - A Real Friend aka Adivina Quién Soy (2006) ***
4/2 - Toxic Avenger 2 (1989) **1/2
4/3 - Toxic Avenger 3 (1989) **
4/5 - Phantom of Paradise (1974) **
4/7 - The Enterance (2006) **
4/9 - Trapped Ashes (2006) **
# Dead Like Me, season 2 (2004) ****
4/11 - An Xmas Tale aka Cuento de Navidad(2006) **1/2
4/13 - Phantasm 3 (1993) ***
4/14 - Phantasm 4 (1998) **1/2
4/16 - Mirrors (2008) **1/2
4/18 - To Let aka Para Entrar a Vivir (2006) ***1/2
4/19 - The Baby's Room aka La Habitación del Niño (2006) ***1/2
4/21 - Lake Dead (2007) *1/2
4/22 - The Killing Gene aka WAZ (2007) **1/2
4/24 - Trackman aka Putevoy Obkhodchik (2007) **
4/26 - The Mutant Chronicles (2009) **1/2
4/27 - 100 Feet (2009) ***
4/30 - Timecrimes (2007) ***1/2
5/1 - Splinter (2008) ****
5/3 - Strange Hostel of Naked Pleasure () **
5/5 - Cold Prey (2006) ***
5/7 - Feast 3 (2008) **1/2
5/10 - Face of Another (1966) ***
5/11 - Eden Lake (2008) **
# Heroes, season 3 (2009) ***1/2
5/13 - Retribution (2006) **1/2
5/16 - Blindness (2008) ***1/2
# Dollhouse, season 1 (2009) ***1/2
5/18 - Storm Warning (2007) **1/2
5/20 - Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009) **1/2
# Fringe, season 1 (2009) ***1/2
5/21 - Quarantine (2008) ****
# Lost, season 5 (2009) ****1/2
# Supernatural, season 4 (2009) *****
5/22 - My Name Is Bruce (2006) **1/2
5/23 - Baby Blues (2008) ***1/2
5/24 - Gabriel (2007) **1/2
5/25 - Baghead (2008) ***
5/26 - Laid To Rest (2008) **1/2
5/27 - From Within (2008) ***
5/28 - My Bloody Valentine (2009) **1/2
5/29 - Shuttle (2009) ***
# Reaper, season 2 (2009)****
5/30 - The Last House in the Woods (2006) *1/2
6/1 - Vacancy 2 (2007) **1/2
6/2 - Black Water (2007) ***
# Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Season 1 (1997) ***1/2
6/6 - The Burrowers (2009) ****
6/7- Four Flies on Grey Velvet (1971) ***
6/9 - Donkey Punch (2008) **1/2
6/10 - Max Payne (2008) **
6/12 - The Happening (2008) **
6/13 - Night of the Living Dead 3D (2006) *1/2
6/15 - Butterfly Effect 2 (2006) **
6/16 - The Broken (2009) ***1/2
6/18 - Night of the Comet (1984) ***
6/19 - Walled In (2009) **
6/20 - Eden Log (2009) **1/2
6/22 - Vinyan (2009) ***
# Millennium, Season 1 (1996)****
6/27 - Surveillance (2009 ****1/2
6/28 - Friday the 13th (2009) *1/2
6/29 - Grudge 3 (2009) **1/2
7/1 - Curse of the Werewolf (1960) ***
7/2 - Brides of Dracula (1960) ***
# Harper's Island (2009) ***
7/7 - End of the Line (2008) ***
7/9 - Dark Floors (2008) **
7/10 - Wicked Lake (2008) *
7/11 - Trailer Park of Terror (2008) **1/2
7/13 - The Uninvited Guest (2004) ***
7/14 - Maintenance (2008) *1/2
7/15 - The Lodger (2009) ***
7/17 - Room 205 (2007) **1/2
7/18 - Detective Story (2007) ***
7/20 - [rec] (2007) ****1/2
7/22 - The Devil's Tomb (2009) **1/2
7/23 - No Man's Land: Rise of the Reeker (2008) ***
7/26 - Dying Breed (2009) ***
7/27 - Perkins 14 (2009) ***
7/29 - Autopsy (2009) **1/2
7/30 - Header (2009) ***1/2
# Sanctuary, season 1 (2008) ***
8/2 - Netherbeast Inc () ***
8/3 - 3 Women (1977) ***1/2
8/5 - Slaughter (2008) **
8/7 - Infestation (2009) **1/2
8/10 - Dorthy Mills (20080) ***
8/11 - Alien Raiders (2008) ***1/2
8/12 - Lunacy (2006) ***
8/13 - Unearthed (2007) **1/2
8/14 - Johnny Got His Gun (1971) ***
8/17 - Coraline (2008) ****
8/18 - Wild Man of the Navidad (2009) ***1/2
8/20 - Mum and Dad (2008) ***
8/21 - Death of a Ghost Hunter (2007) ***1/2
8/24 - Shiver (2008) ***1/2
8/27 - Sick Nurses (2007) **1/2
8/30 - Tooth and Nail (2007) **
# Millennium, Season 2 (1997) ****1/2
9/2 - Empire of Passion (1978) ***
9/3 - Dark Rising (2009) **1/2
# Monster Quest, season 3 (2009)
9/6 - Zombie Strippers (2009) **
9/8 - The Invasion (2007) *1/2
9/9 - The Wicker Man (2006) *
9/10 - The Hitcher (2007) *1/2
# Warehouse 13, season 1 (2009)
9/13 - Last House on the Left (2009) **1/2
9/15 - American Zombie (2007) ***1/2
9/18 - Pop Skull (2009) ***
9/20 - Brutal Massacre: A Comedy (2007) ***
# Buffy the Vampire Slayer, season 2 (1997)
9/22 - Fangoria Blood Drive I (2004) **1/2
9/24 - The Deadgirl (2009) ****
9/27 - Children of the Corn (2009) *1/2
10/1 - The Hills Run Red (2009) **1/2
10/3 - Hit and Run (2009) *
# True Blood, season 2 (2009) ****
10/6 - Book of Blood (2009) ***
10/7 - Naked Fear (2007) **
10/10 - The Flesh and The Fiends (1960) **1/2
10/11 - Wrong Turn 2: Dead End (2007) **1/2
10/14 - Forest of Death (2007) **1/2
10/15 - Puzzlehead (2005) **1/2
10/16 - Farmhouse (2009) **1/2
10/18 - Grace (2009) ***1/2
10/19 - Seventh Moon (2009) **1/2
10/20 - Offspring (2009) **1/2
10/22 - The Objective (2009) ***1/2
10/23 - Mad Love (1935) ***1/2
10/25 - ZA: Zombies Anonymous (2005) *1/2
10/26 - Dracula 3: Legacy () *1/2
10/28 - Wrong Turn 3: Left For Dead (2009) **1/2
10/30 - Tokyo Zombie (2004) ***1/2
10/31 - House of the Devil (2009) ***
11/2 - Cradle of Fear (2000) *1/2
11/3 - Citizen Toxie: Toxic Avenger 4 (2002) **
11/5 - Senseless (2009) **
11/8 - Rumpelstiltskin (1995) *
11/10 - Asylum (2007) **
11/11 - The Scourge (2008) **
11/15 - Samurai Princess (2009) **1/2
11/17 - Fausto 5.0 () ***
11/20 - Drag Me To Hell (2009) ***1/2
# The Hunger (1997) **1/2
11/23 - Dark Night of the Scarecrow (1981) **1/2
11/24 - The Last Horror Film (1982) **
11/27 - Blood Moon Rising (2009) **
11/28 - Live Evil (2008) **1/2
# The Prisoner (2009) ***
11/29 - Hide and Creep (2004) **1/2
12/1 - Torture Garden (1968) ***
12/3 - Mother's Day (1980)**
12/5 - Alphabet Killer (2008) **1/2
12/8 - Sauna (2008) ***1/2
12/9 - The Unborn (2009) **1/2
# Tales from the Dark Side, Season 1 (1984) **1/2
12/11 - The Tatooist (2007) **1/2
12/12 - Pervert! (2005) *1/2
12/15 - Three (2007)*1/2
12/17 - Santa's Slay (2005) **1/2
12/20 - The Uninvited (2009) **1/2
12/21 - Red Mist (2008) **1/2
12/23 - Gorgan (1964) **1/2
# Dexter, Season 4 (2009) ****1/4
12/26 - Screamers 2 (2009) **1/2
12/27 - Run Bitch! Run! (2009) *1/2
12/28 - Dead Air (2008) ***
12/29 - Thaw (2009) **
Current TV Series
# Supernatural, season 5 (2009-2010)
# Sanctuary, season 2 (2009)
# Dollhouse, season 2 (2009-2010)
# Fringe, season 2 (2009-2010)
THE BOOK LIST
1. The Girl Next Door - Jack Ketchum (*****)
2. The Long Last Call (****)
3. Conscience - John Skipp (***)
4. The Walking - Bentley Little (****)
5. The Red Dragon - Thomas Harris (****1/2)
6. Shutter Island - Dennis LaHane (****1/2)
7. Cuts - Richard Laymon (***)
8. Children of Night - Dan Simmons (****1/2)
9. Nocturnal - Scott Sigler (****)
10. City of the Dead - Brian Keene (****)
11. Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde - Robert Louis Stevenson (***1/2)
12. The Talented Mr. Ripley - Patricia Highsmith (***)
13. Virus - Sarah Langan (****)
14. The Relic - Lincoln Child & Douglass Preston (***1/2)
15. The Road - Cormac McCarty (****1/2)
16. The Descent - Jeff Long (***1/2)
17. Weaveworld - Clive Barker (incomplete)
18. 30 Days of Night: Dark Days - Steve Niles (***)
19. Blood Stone - Nate Kenyon (***)
20. 30 Days of Night: Dark Days - Steve Niles (***1/2)
21. The Hollower - Mary Sangiovanni (****)
22. The Straw Men - Michael Marshall (****)
23. The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks (***1/2)
24. OffSpring - Jack Ketchum (****)
25. Bloodline - F. Paul Wilson (****1/2)
26. 20th Century Ghosts - Joe Hill (*****)
27. Preacher: Gone to Texas (#1) - Garth Ennis (****)
28. Succulent Prey - Wrath James White (***)
29. Fear - L. Ron Hubbard (***)
30. VooDoo Child - Weston Cage & Mike Carey (**1/2)
31. Left on the Darkside - various authors. John Pealan, editor (***)
32. The School - TM Wright (***)
33. The Tides - Melanie Tem (***)
34. The Sentinal - Jeffrey Konvitz (***1/2)
35. Snake Woman: A Snake in the Grass, vol. 1 - Shekhar Kapur (**1/2)
36. Creepers - David Morrell (****)
37. Contagious - Scott Sigler (****)
38. The 5th Witch - Graham Masterton (***)
39. Mr. Hands - Gary Braunbeck (****)
40. Kiss of the Mudman - Gary Braunbeck (***1/2)
41. Frozen - Jay Bosinga (***)
42. Misery - Stephen King (***1/2)
43. Wise Blood - Flannery O'Connor (***)
44. The Violent Bear It Away - Flannery O'Connor (***)
45. Green Tea - Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (****)
46. Camilla - Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (****)
_
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