This month certainly vanished. I know that’s a recurring theme with me this year. However, I try to take comfort in knowing time is slipping away productively not just one cocktail at a time. This month I made some serious progress on the vocals and lyrics for the next Beerfinger album. In addition, I got to do a lot of interesting things as far as performing and writing. So let’s jump into the roundup for November.

Kicking things off, I got to review a nice little romcom called A Holiday I Do. It’s not often one gets to write things like, “This film follows a lesbian horse farming as she finds love around the holidays.” On the one hand, it’s close to a cliché. Following the formula Hallmark cemented, A Holiday I Do checks all the boxes on its way to sweet romance. Though that said, the movie has some charm and its certainly nice to see such a romcom focusing on LGBTQ paramours.

For more on what makes this flick appealing, check out the link below. 

A Holiday I Do Will Do | Film Obsessive

Around the start of November, I had the good fortune to get cast in a Murder Mystery Dinner. Now, I’ve done such shows before; however, this occasion meant being part of a weekend long performance. Myself and five other fabulous folks trekked from Chicago to the uppermost end of Michigan. There we brought to life a mystery involving philandering spouses, blackmail, assassins, and murder most foul. All taking place at one of the most picturesque locations I’ve ever been, the Hotel Walloon. It seriously looks like something out of an episode of Murder, She Wrote.

The only downside is that due to a scheduling conflict, I had to break from events at one point in order to do an interview for Film Obsessive. (On the plus side, my absence helped misdirect speculations about my involvement with the murder.) I was supposed to have a Zoom chat with Robin Bain the writer-director of Girls on Film before doing the weekend long show. Life being chaos, conflicts arouse unexpectedly forcing us to shift things. Fortunately, having to reschedule meant the stars of her movie, Dare Taylor and Willow Grey, could join us. I had a wonderful time chatting with these effusive people, who were more than willing to give me plenty of their time as well as in-depth answers to various questions. To check out our chat, follow the link. Besides the video, there’s an article elaborating on the film and backgrounds of everyone involved. 

Robin Bain, Dare Taylor, and Willow Grey Talk Girls on Film | Film Obsessive

Documentaries are a hard sell. Common Ground is no different, and I do mean sell. This movie looks at the prospect of regenerative farming. And it honestly makes a solid case for the concept. The only downside is that the documentary is basically preaching to the choir, and overall feels like a lengthy pitch to venture capitalists. It’s full of celebrity cameos which don’t always add much to the core point, but they do help provide that star power attention grabbing gimmick. For a full rundown of the film’s pros and cons, click the link to see my review.

Common Ground Preaches to the Choir | Film Obsessive

Finally, I closed the month by writing a retrospective on a cult classic. The Holy Mountain by director Alejandro Jodorowsky is something of a legend. It’s a fabulous example of psychedelic cinema by a controversial filmmaker. What it is and why it continues to influence others since its release in 1973 are all explored in the article. That said, I didn’t write a fawning look back. There are reasons not to enjoy the movie as well as valid criticisms of Jodorowsky. And the film itself seems to be a rejection of the idea fiction can lead to enlightenment. Basically, The Holy Mountain makes it possible to think it’s a surreal criticism of several issues while also admitting it may be a pretentious load of shit. Either way, it’s a piece of cinema history well-worth exploring. 

Fifty Years On, What Lies Atop the Holy Mountain? | Film Obsessive

That’s all for now. The new year is almost upon us. Here’s hoping things will go great, though I’d settle for okay. Meanwhile, keep safe, stay weird, and never let your doppelgänger know you saw them – strike first!

Cheers!

Last month proved to be more productive than I expected. One minute there’s nothing on the plate—turn around—assignments aplenty. Some might not care for such unpredictability, but I think it keeps work from getting stale. Bouncing along an uneven road, even when things start seeming routine, they never feel like a rut.
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In addition, most of the work revolved around online material. That’s to say, I got the chance to sit around ye olde apartment watching flicks off screener links and doing one interesting Zoom interview. While it may sound ideal to some, rest assured it comes with its own complications. If I didn’t make myself go out every now and again then being a hermit would certainly be a real risk. And although I do like the cozy hole I currently occupy, I don’t mind forcing my fat ass outside for a bit of fresh air. Still, a few flicks required adventures into the wide world. So let’s jump down the rehash rabbit hole. 

I kicked off spooky season by reviewing an Argentinian fright flick called When Evil Lurks. It’s a creepy movie that has a fresh take on possession. Although the middle crawls a tad, I think it’s well-worth watching. If nothing else, it’s nice to see a new narrative at least being attempted, and the film really wins by creating a scenario then mostly observing how characters react to it. 

When Evil Lurks, It Wins | Film Obsessive

After that I had a curious experience trying to review The Exorcist: Believer. The press screening took place in a part of Chicago I’ve personally never been to. Along Roosevelt Road is an area called Delano Court. It’s basically the unholy offspring of a cul-de-sac and a shopping mall. Overpriced, dubiously acclaimed restaurants and idiotic boutiques crowd the narrow slip cars idle through with a hair’s breadth between them and scrapping street-parked vehicles. The underground parking lot feels like something out of a dystopian nightmare. I kept thinking I was down in a bunker while the street sounds reverberating below conjured impressions of some sci-fi assault above ground.

From this madness I surfaced to wait with the other critics and some people from the public to watch The Exorcist: Believer. Watch is the key word since the film initially featured no sound. At first, I wondered if the movie started silently, but it soon became clear something was amiss. Three false starts later, the audio continued malfunctioning. What ensued was a grim reminder of how terrible humanity can be.

There is something viscerally nauseating about cinema nerds loudly breathlessly berating the poor PR people forced to endure their haughty tongue lashings. Indignant reviewers acting as if the time of gods had been wasted gruffly grumbling aloud for all to hear about how ridiculous it is that a technical malfunction could possibly occur as if the whole error were some planned insult purposefully wasting their precious seconds. And don’t get me started on the cries of the public demanding free tickets because they didn’t get to see a film. Never have I wanted a loaded shotgun more than at that moment, at the very least to fire into the ceiling in hopes of reminding these people of how petty they were all being—this inconvenience is not deathly.

Later that same day the PR company invited me back, and I saw no reason not to give them a second chance. The next afternoon, queuing up in line for the press admission, I noted I was the only person to thank them and at least make eye contact with the young lady ushering us in. The rest all took their passes with a scornful snort before demanding an explanation. Anyone preparing to play an aristocrat during the French Revolution would’ve done well to hear their tone, an odd combination of entitlement unwittingly asking for the guillotine.

Seems the sounds system simply broke—nothing anyone could predict let alone correct yesterday. Regardless, this made seeing The Exorcist: Believer more memorable as an experience than the film is. Although not terrible, it suffers in comparison to its source material. Furthermore, it does nothing new with the concept. For more details, check out the full review at the link below. 

The Exorcist: Believer Pales in Imitation | Film Obsessive

Following that, I sat down to pen some thoughts on The Faculty. This retrospective article gave me a chance to look back at a flick that’s been an A-plus piece of evidence in many friendly debates I’ve had about horror. Mainly, the ways in which the fear genre, whatever its form, is best when it applies to some metaphor. Granted, some of the symbolism and metaphorical implications have become codified over the years, resulting in formulaic designs. Fortunately, movies like The Faculty do a marvelous job subverting expectations by providing interesting twists on such conventions. It’s a concept my buddy Bryan Miller first brought to my attention in college, and it’s served me well as a conversation piece as well as a reminder for the fiction I write.

Lessons from The Faculty, 25 Years Later | Film Obsessive

Afterward, I returned to the online press screeners. I enjoyed most of a movie called The Goldsmith. This Italian horror flick relied on psychological elements more than gore. Again, I liked that it didn’t fall into predictable patterns. What could easily have become a Saw knockoff, torture porn strived for something more clever. If that makes you curious about The Goldsmith, please read the review.
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The Goldsmith Is Tarnished but Watchable | Film Obsessive

Earlier in the month I volunteered to review a documentary called Anselm. This intriguing film ended up playing at the recent Chicago International Film Festival. Prior to that, I got invited to attend a screening at The Logan Center for the Arts. Part of the University of Chicago, this required a trip from where I live down to the Southside. As such, I hit the road around 7 a.m. to have ample time to get there for the 9 a.m. screening.

Without hyperbole, I can attest to getting stuck in the worst traffic of my life. At one point, cars simply stopped obeying any semblance of traffic laws. Vehicles poured down lanes in a chaotic clusterfuck regardless of the supposed direction some should be going in. Inching through miles of road construction, random stoppage as cars double parked without warning, and the molasses pace of typical rush hour slowed to a torturous crawl by an anarchic motorist free-for-all; I made it to the screening with two minutes to spare. Suffice it to say, I am very glad the film did not suck.

This surreal documentary is shot in 3D. From director Wim Wenders, it details the strange works of German artist Anselm Kiefer. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in something that ought to get the creative juices flowing. It also raises some thought-provoking questions about the nature of art and the utilization of history, especially the horrific, for creative expression. More on all that can be found in the full review. 

CIFF2023: Wim Wenders' Anselm Is Immersive, Alluring | Film Obsessive

Following that I did a scene analysis on one of my favorite horror films, The Lords of Salem. The movie is from writer-director Rob Zombie, and frankly, I don’t think it gets as much love as it deserves. I’ll always remember the first time I saw it. My good friend and I went to the Rosemont Theater, and in an almost vacant cinema we watched this haunting head fuck unfold. In many ways, it’s unlike anything else Rob Zombie has done, yet fits right into his cinematic accomplishments. For more on what I think works as well as the scene I dissect, not to mention how that fits into film history, click the article. 

Simple Scares Enrich The Lords of Salem | Film Obsessive

Around then I started down a new path at Film Obsessive. Lately, I’ve been creeping into interviews. The last one I did was for Horror Obsessive way back when the Gwar documentary came out. Now, I’m feeling a desire to head down that road again. I enjoy doing the research to prep, trying to figure out questions interviewees haven’t been asked a million times, and there’s something exciting about talking to real people about the films they’re making.

As such, I got the chance to interview Lindsey Anderson Beer. She’s the writer-director behind the latest flick inspired by Stephen King, Pet Sematary: Bloodlines. I can’t say the movie has been well reviewed. Regardless of your feelings about the film, I recommend giving her a chance to elaborate about what the movie is meant to be. Although I doubt that may change any negative opinions – believe me, I’ve had that conversation with one or two folks already – but I do think knowing the intentions behind a piece of creative expression can alter the way a person might come at their own project. There are lessons for anyone willing to learn. 

Writer-Director Lindsey Anderson Beer Makes Halloween More Frightening | Film Obsessive

Finally, I closed the month sitting at home watching Suitable Flesh. Initially, I got an invite to the London press screening. I had to politely decline since being in Chicago without millions on hand or access to a private jet—it was unfeasible for me to attend. The PR rep and I had a few emailed laughs about that, and they were then kind enough to send me a screener link.

​Inspired by the short story “The Thing on the Doorstep” by H. P. Lovecraft, it’s a tale of psychic body theft starring Heather Graham. The movie oscillates wildly striving to be somewhat comical while also erotic and gory. Nailing down the intention of this film is like trying to catch jelly on a wall by flinging an ax.

Still, that said, film adaptations of Lovecraft have left a low bar to clear. In many ways, Suitable Flesh does. In others, it falls short. Mostly, I could never tell if this movie wanted to be made fun of. It kept feeling like something striving for an intentional good-bad production. Yet, occasionally, I got the sense the filmmakers wanted to be taken seriously. I recommend reading the review, and seeing the movie, though doing the latter with the assistance of several adult beverages. 

Suitable Flesh Can Be a Rotten Delight | Film Obsessive

In any event, that sums up October for the most part. Stay tuned for more Beerfinger updates! I just recorded the instruments for two new songs. Yes, it’s high time I focused on the lyrics and vocals like I said I would, but when inspiration hits it can be hard to concentrate on anything else. And as much as I’d like to be someone who can do four things at once, my attention is unidirectional. But the time is fast approaching for the new album to be fully complete.

Additionally, Dead Letters: Episodes of Epistolary Horror is on the horizon! It’ll be released on December 1st. Preorders are currently being taken and last I checked, that put the anthology in the top ten for Amazon’s top selling horror books. I can’t wait for folks to read the numerous nightmares in here especially my own, “Queen of This Carnival Creation.”

Until next time… stay safe and keep being weird… cheers!

Every day is different. It sounds like an obvious statement, but it’s easy to forget when routine eats up the hours. Those devilish little details which make each instant unique vanish when no one is paying attention. Yet, every day there’s a second chance to appreciate things again.

​See, writing about pop culture can begin to feel less like a privilege. The formulaic nature of such things tends to make them less marvelous. I’m reminded of a quote in Sunset Boulevard (1950). Paraphrasing is the best I can do, but it amounts to, “The problem with you readers is you know all the plots.” In other words, the more awareness of the formula, the less astonishing and more boringly predictable things become. However, that doesn’t mean something can’t still be surprising.

Last month I got to review a few films which, although they hit predictable points, still managed to charm. In addition, I watched a classic concert film which got rereleased, yet it delighted me to no end. Perhaps I’ve just been in better spirits, making me more receptive to certain things, but I doubt anyone would disagree that perspective has a profound effect on what we find enjoyable. 

​Theater Camp is a delightful film that follows in the mockumentary styling of flicks like This is Spinal Tap (1984). It wonderfully yet lovingly skewers the antics of a particular niche. In this instance, theater folks are the target. And frankly, when I sat down to watch I worried the movie would be too much inside baseball. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case. Although I do think some jokes hit harder for folks who have even the most peripheral theater experiences, anyone can get into this flick. For more on why, check out the review below. 

Honestly, I was not in a great mood when I first sat down for this movie. For various reasons, I had to watch it 2 a.m. then compose a review for the next day. It was basically watching the premiere on HULU then going straight into writing so the article could go up that morning. Full disclose, some of that pressure was a personal choice. I’m sure if I asked my editor for time, it would’ve been allowed, but let’s be honest here. No one cares about a review the day after something comes out. So we at Film Obsessive need to get reviews done day of, or days before a release. My bad mood really being just too many things going on at once and having to stay up late like this really fucked with my scheduling. But my overall point is that Theater Camp ended up being such a joy, my sourness evaporated. 

Theater Camp Takes Center Stage | Film Obsessive

After that assignment, I found myself happily tasked with seeing Stop Making Sense. This concert film from 1984, directed by Jonathan Demme and featuring The Talking Heads, has long been considered the best music movie ever. The 4K restoration and rerelease promised to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Not particularly familiar with the film, I looked forward to seeing it for the first time. However, I could not imagine the joy of watching this concert. The rumors of it tempting people to start dancing in the aisles are a hundred percent true. At the very least, I felt the impulse to get up and groove. The only thing holding me back, a complete lack of physical coordination necessary to imply dancing. In other words, I didn’t want to worry any of the other press in attendance by seeming to have a seizure during “Girlfriend is Better”… which, by the by, has lately become a routine jukebox play of mine.

It might seem like a decades old concert movie isn’t worth the admission. Yet, I contend in my review, this is the kind of feature which could save theaters, far more so than blockbuster action CGI extravaganzas. The immersive potential of cinemas is what Stop Making Sense embraces. But I won’t go on about that here. Follow the link.

Stop Making Sense Is Best in Theaters | Film Obsessive

I felt so bad earlier in September. I misread a colleague’s post in our Discord and thought they were asking if anyone wanted to cover a certain documentary. Truth is Alix Turner was simply sharing their excitement about the potential review. We chatted, and I apologized profusely. However, a little while later, they messaged me saying that their coverage of a film festival was eating up too much time. As such, Alix asked if I’d take over the documentary assignment. That’s how I ended up getting to cover the nearly five-hour film that is Robodoc: The Creation of Robocop.

Now, I am a fan of Robocop. But here’s the deal. We got word the PR company wanted a review before the release which meant I needed to binge watch this whole thing in basically a day. Then turn around and fire the afterburners so to speak in order to get the review out on time. This is the kind of thing that’s hard to express to folks. It doesn’t seem difficult to simply sit, watching something for five hours, but it is. No matter how entertaining, pressure and directed attention fatigue can kick a brain around.

Fortunately, Robodoc: The Creation of Robocop is an engaging film. Though I caution against binge watching, it is immensely informative. The documentary basically breaks down the movie scene by scene, getting input from every person conceivably involved with each moment. That means interviewing performers, crew, extras… it sets a new standard for behind-the-scenes documentaries going forward. 

Robodoc Lovingly Shares the Good and the Bad | Film Obsessive

What made this assignment even harder is that the same PR firm kicked another film my way. Turns out, the filmmakers behind Robodoc made another documentary called Hollywood Dreams and Nightmares: The Robert Englund Story. That movie was scheduled to come out around the same time, so they asked if we could kindly finish a review beforehand as well. That added another two hours to the watch list. So, essentially seven hours later, I sat down to pen a review of two very different documentaries.

The upside is that both are wonderful. However, Hollywood Dreams and Nightmares is more the story of one performer. The best part about it is that the movie doesn’t focus too much on Robert Englund’s time as Freddy. Of course, it needs to spend time there. The character is what he’s best known for, but there’s nothing new to offer in that department. What captivates are the stories about a person aspiring to have a career then getting comfortable, frankly, confined in a role. For more reasons this movie is wonderful, follow the link. 

Enjoy Robert Englund's Hollywood Dreams & Nightmares | Film Obsessive

Finally, I got to visit a little-known cult classic called Six-String Samurai (1998). This is one of those obscure gems few people have heard of, let alone seen. There’s a grainy, fuzzy version for free on YouTube, but instead of burning my eyes out of my skull, I opted to throw down for the recently released Blu-ray. Honestly, that’s the only way to really appreciate the cinematography of this indie jewel.

This was one of those movies I heard about in high school. Flipping through film magazines back then there would be an article and set pics—the plot intrigued me most of all. In an alternative history, the U.S. got nuked by Russian, and Elvis became literal king of the only city left standing, Lost Vegas, but with his death, guitar plucking, sword swinging rockers are headed across the wasteland to take the throne. Unfortunately, it never made it to any theaters around me. Or if it did, Six-String Samurai didn’t stick around long enough for me to catch it. Sometime around college, I remember seeing half the movie late-night on a cable channel. Cut up by commercial breaks, it failed to impress. Watching it three times for this article, though, gave me a better impression why the few fans who know are devoted to this movie.

And I’ll be the first to admit there are flaws. Six-String Samurai isn’t some lost diamond. Still, it’s a testament to audacious folks being too young and unscarred to stop themselves. That’s a quality too many, myself included, tend to lose over the years. That willingness to dive after a dream regardless of the wreckage that will ensue.

Six-String Samurai: Rocking the Wasteland for 25 Years | Film Obsessive 

Anyhow, most of September ended up being devoted to fiction. I’ve put several stories in the pipeline. If they don’t sell at one publisher or another, well, at least they exist. Having finished some projects is the point, and selling them, although a headache, is part of the business. It's just nice to be finishing fiction again. Though that all said other things are very much in motion.

Dead Letters: Episodes of Epistolary Horror is due to come out December 1st. That date is fast approaching. And I can’t wait to share “Queen of this Carnival Creation” with all y’all. Meanwhile, stay weird, keep safe, and never forget to polish your knives so them fools can see their eyes getting carved out. Cheers!

Ups and downs are the nature of the business. Long years struggling to keep at least a nostril above water in the writing world, I’ve learned to enjoy the air when it comes, and somehow find a smile when it seems like drowning. It’s never all doom, though it isn’t always sunshine. The trick is keeping busy. However, keeping busy sometimes means losing track of things… which seems to be the theme this year. Yet, there’s good reason for a roundup this month.

Fiction has fallen by the wayside as I’ve focused on more, shall we say, journalistic endeavors. The film reviews have obviously been my main focus of late, but such critical analysis has always been a peripheral pleasure of mine. Still, it’s nice being able to share another anthology including one of my short stories.

This occasion belongs to Thicker Than Water. Crime stories that focus on the connection between mothers and their children. Several fabulous writers helped contribute to this amazing collection of hardboiled tales. Published by Shotgun Honey, the anthology includes my story “For the Best” which is about a mother torn apart by revelations about her son as well as what she must do because of such discoveries. It’s a heartbreaker and a disturbing thriller, but only one among many excellent pieces.

​Even better, proceeds from sales go to benefit breast cancer research. So grab a copy today! (Shameless self-promotion and such complete… still not a strong suit but getting better.)

Shotgun Honey Presents: Thicker Than Water – Shotgun Honey

Recently, I got to review a romcom from Netflix called Happiness for Beginners. It has its charms, though is quite predictable. The supporting cast is wonderful, but unfortunately are never really given enough to do. That’s always a shame because peripheral performances can really add to a feature like this. Still, Happiness for Beginners has its moments for those wanting some lowkey comedy with a touch of optimistic romance. For more reasons why it might be up your alley, check out the review!

Happiness for Beginners Charms without Surprises | Film Obsessive

Around the same time, I got to check out an Icelandic suspense film called Operation Napoleon. It’s a wonderful throwback to lazy Sunday flicks. It’s easy to imagine idling through an overcast afternoon, watching this adventure take place while sneaking a fourth or fifth beer. Dark twists and turns abound as the film unfolds. Although its World War II Nazis oriented plot may seem to have an obvious conclusion, I assure you the movie doesn’t go the way you think it will. There’s enough subterfuge to keep the ending uncertain. Yet, there are a few bumps in the road keeping it from being perfect. Fortunately, such criticism hasn’t stopped the filmmakers from including a snippet from my review on the packaging for physical media. For more, follow the link!

Operation Napoleon Offers Mild Suspense | Film Obsessive

Intrigued by the title, I picked up a screener for a flick called Wendigo. Always a sucker for found footage, I gave this horror movie an honest chance. In some ways it showed potential. In others, it painfully did not. I do congratulate the optimism of the filmmakers, though, since the movie ends on a note implying a definite idea for some kind of expanded universe. They have sequels in mind. That kind of ambitious optimism is inspiring, and as I mention in the review, I do wish them the best.

This is, as far as I know, their first feature length film. Few folks get it entirely right the first time out, and low-budget always causes hiccups. Perhaps I’m being too kind in that respect, however, there’s a soft spot in my heart for the no-budget horror people who seem to be making movies simply for love of the genre. Is it good enough for a beer and a pizza evening? Well, read the review... and yeah, believe it or not, that title leads to a review where I'm trying to be kind.

The Wendigo Will Waste Your Time | Film Obsessive

Speaking of horror, I got to review a wonderful documentary called King on Screen. It’s about the many movies adapted from the works of iconic author Stephen King. Throughout are interviews with filmmakers elaborating on why they chose certain stories as well as why they love the author's work.

This is the kind of documentary that is definitely biased in favor of its subject, although I think that’s okay on this occasion. Love letters shouldn’t be objective. The only annoying part is that the film largely becomes an evening with Frank Darabont at one point. Still, his insights into movie making are wellworth hearing. If you are a fan of Stephen King, especially the films, then I highly recommend King on Screen. Should you need further reasons, and there are plenty, then read the review.

​King on Screen Is a Pleasure for Fans | Film Obsessive

Flashing back to childhood, I got to see the latest version of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I won’t lie. Part of me didn’t expect a goddamn thing from this film. Although I try to go into every screening with the least amount of expectations possible – they can only fuck up the perspective – this movie was a fun ride. It’s a joy from start to finish, and even better doesn’t solely rely on nostalgia to appeal to audiences. The movie stands on its own. More than anything, it was just fun. Not to mention, one of the few times I’ve ever thought 3D actually added anything to a movie. For more on what makes Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem a delightful flick, follow the link.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Is Marvelous | Film Obsessive

Speaking of nostalgia, I took a look back at Blade. Released 25 years ago, this movie is still stellar. Granted, it may not be a subtle work in any respect, but I think there’s more to the movie than some give it credit for. Exploitation roots provide a framework for a film that is engagingly gory, over the top in all the right ways, and sparked the comic book cinematic era we now found ourselves. Feel free to disagree, but the proof is in my article. 

On a side note, I ordered a Blu-ray copy of Blade. This came with all three films in the franchise. Granted, I have no desire to really watch Blade: Trinity ever again – once in the theater was too much. However, I found it interesting that particular disc is buried under Blade II. You have to remove one CD to get at the other. It made me chuckle because I couldn’t stop imagining some package designer being like, “Fuck this movie. You don’t even get your own slot, disappointing piece of shit.”

Blade Is Still Sharp, 25 Years Later | Film Obsessive

Following that note of disappointment, I saw The Meg 2: The Trench. This is an absolutely terrible movie. Nothing about it is in any redeemable. And that hurts my teeth because this could have been a wonderfully fun, dumb film. Oddly enough, my contempt for this movie resulted in one of the fastest I’ve ever written a review. The hate just poured out of me onto the page. In a certain way, it was fun to write and I encourage you to read it for some of the snarky comments. My only regret is that I didn’t include this observation.

Some will be tempted to see this film for ironic reasons. Others may be inclined because it can’t possibly be that bad; curiosity compelling them to see for themselves. Don’t do that. Don’t do either. The Meg 2 is not entertainingly awful, it’s just awful. And any dollars it makes will simply inspire filmmakers to inflict another on us because it doesn’t matter why people see a movie so long as they pay. 

The Meg 2: The Trench is a Beached Whale | Film Obsessive

Finally, circling back to fiction, I recently finished my edits on the anthology Dead Letters: Episodes of Epistolary Horror. Editor did a fabulous job leaving little work for me. Still, it’s nice to know that one is off to the printers. Should be coming out December 1st, and I’ll keep all y’all appraised in the meanwhile.

Otherwise, there’s not much else to report. The next Beerfinger album is inching towards completion. Might have finished sooner if I hadn’t got a notion going on one more song to add. Part of me thinks I added another just to procrastinate since it can’t fail while still being made. Regardless, keep an ear open for that on the horizon. And meanwhile, as always, stay weird, keep on keeping on, and be safe out in this mad world. Cheers!

The Steve Miller Band wasn’t kidding. Time keeps slipping into the future. However, I hardly feel like someone able to fly like an eagle. Granted, I’m no moose trudging through mud, but some days it’s easy to fall into that space between the hammer and the anvil. Yet, one hopes any battering leads to better days. But enough mixed metaphors.

​Last month resulted in a wide array of flicks for review. It’s always nice to experience a broad spectrum. Plus, publications are moving towards print. While the fiction anthologies I’m lucky enough to be in might be a few months away, it’s something to look forward to. Meanwhile, there’s always paranormal adventures in Chicago to keep things interesting. 

Kicking things off is a review of Insidious: The Red Door. I’ve been a fan of this horror franchise since the start. While fright levels have varied over the years, the films have never failed to deliver interesting plot concepts. And personally, though the first remains best, I did enjoy the third. The series is good at opening up to new creepy haunts that stick to the overall franchise theme, and the Man Who Can’t Breathe really hit me as lingering spooky.

That said, I think this installment could’ve been better. Yet, it remains a solid casual horror watch. It’s not about to be an iconic film, but Insidious: The Red Door is still a horror movie sure to spice up any Halloween movie marathon. 

Insidious: The Red Door Reveals Nothing New | Film Obsessive

After that I got to watch a foreign film entitled Two Tickets to Greece. This French flick didn’t really venture into any new territory, but hey, not everything is going to be a win. It’s not the worst movie I’ve seen and has some charm. However, there are elements which hit me weird.

For instance, a character with clear depression is treated as someone who just needs to smile more. Furthermore, a Greek guy physically assaults a main character, roughly throwing her to the floor, and afterwards, everyone acts as if that’s just to be expected while sidewise blaming her for making him chuck her about. I’m sorry, but fuck that. Though the movie has some charm and comedy, the overall message is people with depression need to try harder to be happy or else they’re a burden on everyone around them; and if you’re abused, take it with a smile – don’t be a Debbie Downer. Worse, it repeatedly implies that women are responsible for the terrible ways men treat them.

The movie tries to imply these aren’t its messages. That it’s a tale of empowerment about people learning to seize the day. Perhaps to a degree that’s true. As I said, it isn’t a bad movie, and has some entertaining aspects, but something about the way certain situations are handled rubbed me the wrong way.

Two Tickets to Greece Avoids Any Interesting Rocks | Film Obsessive

I was lucky enough to get in on an advance screening of Oppenheimer. Though I’m certain the film will dominate awards in the coming months, nominated if not winning – this movie is woefully overrated. This frenetic Wikipedia recitation of history is drier than a desert. Lacking any humanity, Oppenheimer is just a cleverly nonlinear history lesson that delivers nothing more than facts. I’ve read accounts of folks overwhelmed by emotions after watching this movie, and hearing as much, it’s clear to me I’m completely dead inside because nothing remotely close happened to me.

Though I’d never try to dissuade anyone from watching Oppenheimer, I would advise watching it on streaming. The IMAX aspect does nothing to enhance the viewing. Furthermore, streaming at home gives a person a chance to hit the bathroom. This is 3 hours of dry history masquerading as clever commentary on matters it isn’t brave enough to really confront, hiding its cowardice as a warts and all display of the main character shying away from the truth of the horror he unleashed on the world. Worse, it fosters the lie that dropping the atomic bomb as the only way to defeat Japan. Yet, the film pretends to be a deeper examination of that decision, while reiterating a bold lie.

Frankly, the more I think about it, the more I hate this movie. It’s a cowardly film trying to be clever in a way that only hides its dull story. But like I said, it’ll likely dominate awards ceremonies in the weeks to come. Folks will focus on the good acting and technical skill – IMAX, camera work, etc. – while ignoring the shallow narrative as they pat themselves on the back for recognizing a film that says nuclear war is bad.

Congrats. It is, always has been. You’re a fucking genius for saying so. 

Oppenheimer Becomes Death, Destroyer of Three Hours | Film Obsessive

Following up, I watched a Spanish horror film called The Coffee Table. This hit sidewise in a manner that caused a stumble. A married couple fight about a new furniture purchase. What follows is them buying a coffee table which results in an accident that undoes their entire lives. It’s rare to see the slow burn creep to the end of this film.  The Coffee Table is a gothic nightmare about people drifting, seemingly relentlessly, towards a terrible end. Horror fans will find it well worth watching.

The Coffee Table Fabulously Ruins Lives | Film Obsessive

Then I got sent an indie film which screened at the Asian American Film Festival in DC. Entitled This Time, the movie is a look at romance recontextualized by nostalgia as well as time apart. The leads are two people who were lovers as teenagers, but events ripped them apart. Reunited twenty years later, it’s hard for them not to wonder what might’ve been. In many ways, aspects of the movie may remind viewers of Before Sunrise (1995). However, I think that’s fine given that the main characters are supposed to be children of the ’90s. Their lives mirror the pop culture of the period.

It was a refreshing film with a unique take on certain things. More details on what works and what doesn’t are in the review. But if you stumble on this one some evening, it may make for an interesting date night flick.

This Time Fondly Recalls What's Gone | Film Obsessive

On a similar note, I got to watch the Netflix original Happiness for Beginners. Based on a book of the same name by author Katherine Center, this romcom wasn’t without charm. Ellie Kemper (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt) is wonderful throughout. While it doesn’t go anywhere fresh, the film is the kind of casual watch that seems less common these days. The kind of movie folks can put on while making dinner, or doomscrolling and still delight in having on. Not a lot of those solid two-star films being made anymore, or rather, it seems like they get swept into the dumpster to be quickly forgotten. The algorithms only want to recommend the big winners. 

Happiness for Beginners Charms without Surprises | Film Obsessive

Finally, I suckered myself into doing a paranormal investigation article. Again. I know, I know. I often lament doing these. Meanwhile, I’m the one volunteering. This time I took a tour of Chicago’s Rosehill Cemetery.

The most interesting thing about writing this article was looking back on previous paranormal pieces I’ve written. I was finding it hard at first to type anything enthusiastically. Everything came out as a dry account of details which would’ve captivated no one. Glancing back at prior articles about things like Bachelor’s Grove and The Congress Plaza Hotel, I saw a real effort to capture the atmosphere of such paranormal places. Fortunately, that kicked up a spark and the writing came a little easier. Working on this article was a good reminder about how important it is to be in the mood to write a particular piece, but also that with a little effort one can conjure the mindset necessary to do a topic justice.

Although Rosehill offered nothing truly haunting – I remain ever skeptical – the article is still an interesting run through Chicago history. On top of that, I did put in one or two bits which debunk popular myths about the place. I always find it sad how many websites include stories or legends which are easily disproven. They don’t seem to understand that publishing falsehoods only hurts their own case. 

Chicago's Gothically Haunting Rosehill Cemetery - Horror Obsessive

As far as fiction goes, I managed to sell a story I loved to write called “Queen of this Carnival Creation”. It will appear in an anthology of epistolary horror published by Crystal Lake later this year. I cannot emphasize enough how thrilled I am that this piece found a home. I loved writing it every minute I was at the keys. On top of that, at risk of shamelessly tooting my own horn, this is a good story. I’ve rarely received so glowing an acceptance letter. Witches, cults, haunted woods – I can’t wait for folks to finally read this one. So stay tuned, I’ll be sure to post when and where to get your hands on a copy.

Otherwise, that’s all for now. My best to you and yours. As usual, stay weird, keep safe, and always be ready to shoot first. Cheers!

June concluded two weeks ago, and it was about then my body decided to take a vacation. However, it didn’t inform me before quietly quitting. We’ve reconciled in the last few days, although I still feel a tad annoyed. Things seemed to be going smoothly but such is life. One minute the river is a lazy flow then come around the bend into rapids. Ah well, things could certainly be worse.
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Despite the brief resurgence of chronic pain and a touch of illness, I’m back on track. That means doing the round up of last month’s publications, and damn if there aren’t a lot to look at. Ghost hunts, movie reviews, and no harm reminding an anthology is available featuring mine as well as several other short stories. All positively reviewed, I might add. Let’s get to it!

​The month kicked off reviewing a flick called Flamin’ Hot. It’s based on the true story of the fellow who claims to’ve invented the flaming hot seasoning found on Frito Lay snacks like Cheetos, Doritos, etc. It’s a charming comedy with a solid cast, a real Horatio Alger for the modern era. Although it’s warm embrace of capitalist myths like bootstrap pull-ups and the old American Dream sound a little offkey to folks like me, there’s still a delight in watching a film be brazenly sentimental while selling the idea of hard work paying off. The real weirdness was the amount of paperwork I needed to sign. This being a Disney film meant putting my signature on numerous documents swearing no one but me would be able to see let alone hear the movie while I watched it, presumably in a soundproof homemade isolation chamber. 

Flamin' Hot Feels Good | Film Obsessive

After that I got the privilege of attending a screening for a flick called Good Guy with a Gun. This interesting indie film showed at the Gene Siskel Film Center. I haven’t been to that theater in ages, and it was a wonderful reminder of how fabulous a spot that is for seeing movies. On the one hand, the audiences there are cinema fans, so no chance of anyone fiddling on phones or chatting during the film. People are there to watch the movie. Second, there’s a real effort to create the old atmosphere that theaters used to have. And they do so by providing little touches like classic popcorn boxes. The little details really do matter.

As for the movie I ended up reviewing, I had mixed feelings. At the Q&A afterward, the filmmakers asserted Good Guy with a Guy is supposed to show both sides of the gun argument. However, I think the movie is more one sided than they’re willing to admit. At the very least, the pro angle is skewed in a way that’s either poorly written with unnatural dialogue or slanted as such, it’s hard to see it in a positive light. Don’t get me wrong. It’s a well put together movie that brings up a hard topic that needs to be discussed. The film just gets a little bogged down by its effort to have a message as opposed to simply tell a story.
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For the record, I’ll confess to having a touch of trouble writing the review. The Q&A allowed me to see the filmmakers and they were rightly damn proud of the movie they made. Their earnestness and passionate intent came across. The fact I couldn’t honestly give them a glowing review across the board felt kind of unpleasant like kicking a kid after they did okay in the school play. However, I’d be doing a disservice giving them gold when, in my opinion, they earned silver.

At Least Good Guy with a Gun Hits the Target | Film Obsessive

​As work continued, I soon got one I was really looking forward to. The advance screener arrived for Maggie Moore(s). This is a comedy based on a true crime incident. The real-life event is an unsolved crime where two women with the same name were murdered. That sets up the basis for this offbeat comedy which revolves around a similar incident. With a cast that includes Tina Fey and Jon Hamm, I was really excited to see this one. Unfortunately, it amounted to a Hallmark murder mystery of the week. Again, it’s not terrible, but it’s a movie with enough quality ingredients what cooks up is disappointing. However, I would never recommend against it. White wine on a quiet afternoon with nothing else to watch --- it can pass the just time.

Mediocrity Murders Maggie Moore(s) | Film Obsessive

​From there I slipped into penning analysis rather than review. I won’t say much since everything worth talking about is in the article. But I found it necessary to blather on about cinematography, specifically how the work of Roger Deakins gives Skyfall a deeper story. My evidence in that case is centered around the sniper scene in this Bond flick, and I think it also gives a sense of why good cinematography matters in a movie.

Cinematography Enriches Skyfall's Sniper Scene | Film Obsessive

​Last among the movie reviews, I got invited to an advance viewing of Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken. The latest animation feature from Dreamworks, it’s an adorable movie. The interesting thing about this occasion is that the screening also doubled as a public viewing. I’m a tall, broad, biker looking heavy metal motherfucker, and I walked into a theater full of children. More than one parent gave me the side-eye until they saw me sit in the area reserved for press. And then we all enjoyed a family flick that isn’t perfect but parents in need of a video babysitter will be pleased to plop their little ones down for a watch. Although it could’ve been better in parts, the movie at least sends the right messages. 

Adorably Awkward Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken | Film Obsessive

​Not long after that I got asked to do some review and analysis of the new Amazon tv series I’m a Virgo. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s by showrunner Boots Riley who did the fabulous surreal satire Sorry to Bother You. This time the aim is a criticism of society coming at things through comic book films. That’s a bit reductive, but I think starts the discussion. The series follows a young man who happens to be a 13-foot tall giant as he emerges into public life. This results in an opportunity to critically deconstruct a number of issues such as racism, capitalism, media as propaganda, etc. It’s a complex series that asks its audience to think critically about the world around them, and it does so in a surreal presentation that is captivating, occasionally touches the heart, and is frequently comical. 

I'm a Virgo Starts Large (Episode 1 Review) | TV Obsessive

Titanic Topics in I'm a Virgo Season 1 | TV Obsessive

​Needing a break from serious writing, I volunteered to type an article celebrating some shlock over at Horror Obsessive. To that end, I picked a movie called Hard Rock Nightmare. Not to be confused with Rock ‘N’ Roll Nightmare, this laughable slasher from the 80s is everything right and wrong about good bad movies. Cringe doesn’t begin to describe certain scenes, and the acting makes porn look like Hollywood gold. Plus, there is some stellar mediocre metal music. Hard Rock Nightmare is a perfect film for what I call beer and a pizza night, where friends get together to drink and mock a movie. 

Are You Ready to Mock Hard Rock Nightmare? - Horror Obsessive

Finally, I got roped into doing another paranormal article. Not gonna lie, I always feel like these are going to be more interesting than they are. Why I keep agreeing is beyond me. I suppose I have some far peripheral fantasy about being a paranormal investigator left over from childhood that occasionally pops up demanding attention. The only thing that quiets the desire is indulging in a little ghost hunting. Truth be told, it’s not the subject matter that ever bothers me. It’s the sites and sources which all seem like a mess of plagiarism, obviously false accounts, and attention seeking debunkable claims.

The headache of sifting through what could be called “creditable” material is frustrating. Ghost hunters online rarely site sources, and when they do, if someone digs deep enough, they’re likely to find the stories are cut & pasted from someone else’s page, itself without sited sources --- it’s a rabbit hole that leads only to doubt. For instance, few noted digitally archived newspaper records citing when a certain statue was made. The paranormal pages preferring instead to assert the debunkable myth that said sculpture was a replacement for one lost on the Lusitania. As for firsthand accounts, it basically becomes untangling a web of echoes repeating a story heard from a friend of a friend who’s cousin knew someone back in the day who saw this happen and since then people claim to have seen the same.

​Still, there’s some interesting history behind the places. That’s partly what brings me back to such articles these days. On this occasion, I got to explore Chicago’s famous Rosehill Cemetery. The historic graveyard is a landmark in the city. Gothically picturesque and wonderful to walk through, I enjoyed the day I spent collecting photos. And although I did need to rev myself up, so to speak, I still got into the article. As I said, there’s a part of me that wants to believe, and I won’t deny a certain eerie, quiet discomfort staring at certain statues. 

Chicago's Gothically Haunting Rosehill Cemetery - Horror Obsessive

Well, that does it for now. I’m hopeful my health holds together long enough for me to complete a few projects before July concludes. The Beerfinger album is coming together nicely. Plus, the anthology “No Trouble at All” got released. This collection of polite horror explores what lurks beneath the façade. It includes a story by me called “Anger Management” about a family with a bizarre, unsettling way of keeping their bad moods in order. And like I said, here’s another positive review. Do yourself a favor and grab this book of frights straight from the source at Cursed Morsels Press.

No Trouble at All paperback | Eric Raglin (cursedmorselspress.com)

Thanks for reading. Stay weird, keep safe, and never lose your sense of humor. Cheers!

With May coming to a close—shots downed and pints raised—it feels like a winner. This month barely saw anytime away from the keyboard. Still pumping out reviews, but fiction wins weren’t all back burner stories simmering for later. I also made a few inches progress on the latest Beerfinger album.

Plunging right in, I got to see a plethora of films. Advance screenings are getting to be a weird thing. Consider, when I saw Fast X, other critics were talking about movies I had yet to see. There’s this interesting (and if I’m being honest, annoying) spoiler infused quality to going to these things. Granted, doing this more regularly might mitigate that (I’d be seeing all the movies), but I think anyone can get my point—spoilers suck. I’ve also noticed an overall mood shift depending on whether a screening is a mix of press and the public. The latter often adds to the atmosphere in a positive way I’m sure promoters are trying to exploit to improve reviews. And I won’t lie, it kind of works.

But I’ve also noticed the kind of pretentious snobbery I’ve always abhorred in any creative circle. Being Midwestern to a fault, I do my best not to eavesdrop, but the guy sitting right in front of you boisterously talking about how much he plans on disliking a movie he hasn’t seen is telling. There’re also exit conversations overheard on the way to the parking lot, like when I heard one critic condescendingly talk another out of enjoying the movie they just left. Why do I consider this snobbery? Because the main reason for all the dislike was simply this being a horror film.

Look. Objectivity is largely a myth. People can only control their bias so much when it comes to examining art. However, if anyone is supposed to at least be making the semblance of effort, I think it’s the critics. And there are ways to acknowledge a movie, book, music, etc. isn’t your cup ‘o’ tea while admitting someone else may enjoy it. It’s the difference between admitting there’s a world outside of you and shitting in any eyes glancing elsewhere. You don’t have to give it four stars, label it a classic, and smile like a liar, but I don’t want to digress too much. 

​First off, I got to review Fool’s Paradise. It’s a movie from Charlie Day, better known for his role as Charlie on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The flick is a curious throwback to older styles of comedy. Those enamored with the hilarious sitcom Day is more famous for may not find the humor they’re looking for in Fool’s Paradise. While it has its charms, the movie ran too much on one note. However, why it might be worth watching is in the article below.

More Charm than Chuckles in Fool's Paradise | Film Obsessive

Next, I rode along with Fast X. This may shock folks familiar with me, but I actually enjoy the unflinching dumb fun of this series. The review outlines why exactly, so I’ll leave that for you to read in disbelief. There’s something to be said for an unabashedly bad action flick that leans into stupid so well. What exactly? Click the link.

Fast X Furiously Fuels Delightfully Dumb Fun | Film Obsessive

The same day, I watched Giving Birth to a Butterfly. This was the cinematic equivalent of doing a J-turn at top speed. I went from over-the-top action defying the bounds of logic and physics to a quiet indie drama with surreal elements softly sharing views on escape. It’s not for everyone, but I think there’s an audience for the film. More on why in the review below.

Giving Birth to a Butterfly: A Soft Sledgehammer | Film Obsessive

In the middle of the month, I penned a retrospective review looking back at one of my favorite flicks Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. One would think that’d be an easy article to write. However, loving the material as well as doing the research left me with material well beyond the word limit. The problem became pairing things down, and I still think there’s more I should’ve said. Yet, the main point I wanted to convey came across. Not only is Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas a cult classic, but it’s a dark comedy about two sad figures blazing towards oblivion. I don’t think a lot of fans see the latter. Perhaps it’s only in youth people see reckless rebels heroically indulging in excess, and I’ve aged out of seeing madness as something disconnected from pain.

Feed on the Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas | Film Obsessive

Shortly after, my review of Aseptic and Faintly Sadistic: an anthology of hysteria fiction went up over at Horror Obsessive. This book hit me a lot of ways. Not all of them comfortable, but each of them worthwhile. The stories I enjoyed don’t need much more explanation, but the ones I disliked were too focused on making a message rather than a narrative. Basically, they bluntly drove a point home with the subtlety of a hammer. That said, Aseptic and Faintly Sadistic often offered messages worth hearing, but it didn’t always do so in the best way possible. A more detailed explanation is in the review. 

What Awaits Reading Aseptic and Faintly Sadistic - Horror Obsessive

Finally, I closed this month seeing The Boogeyman. The movie is the latest adaptation of a Stephen King story, specifically a short from, I believe, 1973. It’s a solid enough horror movie. Fear flick veterans looking for something fresh won’t be disappointed. However, The Boogeyman isn’t likely to become a classic. Still, it’s better than 90% of the trash pumped out, smothering the horror genre in sewage. Check out the review linked below and even if now doesn’t strike you as the time, keep this in mind for a future Halloween.

The Boogeyman Is Enjoyably Predictable | Film Obsessive

That’s all for now. More reviews coming soon in June. In addition, a fresh paranormal article will go up over at Horror Obsessive. This time exploring Chicago’s Rosehill Cemetery. Meanwhile, revisit my old pieces on Cuba Road, Bachelor’s Grove, and The Congress Plaza. Otherwise, as work progresses on other ventures… stay safe, stay weird, and never forget, you only fail when you stop trying. 

Normally it’s March that comes in like a lion, but this fool got hit hard at the start of April. Zero complaints, though, since being busy is always better than the torturous boredom of nothing happening. Maybe I’m just hitting a groove, but the funny thing is I actually tried not to do much this month. I had other projects I wanted to focus on. However, no sense turning opportunities down when they arrive.

Most of those came in the form of reviews for Film Obsessive. I’ve been stepping up my efforts as a movie reviewer there, thanks in no small part to Don Shanahan. He’s the founder of the blog Every Movie has a Lesson and a solid indie critic. That said, I did manage to get a book review done for Horror Obsessive too.

Let’s start friendly. Family friendly that is. Not the usual aim around here, but bear with me, it’s gonna get weird real quick.

Among the flicks I reviewed, I got to see The Super Mario Bros. Movie. It’s got some genuine laughs and rises far above the low bar set by the first Mario movie from 1993. That isn’t to say it’s perfect, although since seeing the movie I’ve become very aware how intensely fans are devoted to this film. When I went to the same theater to see a different feature for review, teenagers in cosplay were chatting enthusiastically about having seen The Super Mario Bros. Movie three times.

Once was enough for me. Not a bad viewing, though I wouldn’t’ve minded a whiskey or three. But the long and short of it is in the review. So, follow the link below.

Mamma Mia! The Super Mario Bros. Movie, It's-a Not Bad! | Film Obsessive

Around the same time, I watched a Netflix original entitled Chupa. Someone got the brilliant idea to try and make a cuddly cryptid movie. And I don’t mean for that to sound sarcastic. This movie’s got shades of Lilo & Stitch, and while I’d chose that over this, Chupa isn’t a bad kids’ movie. Ways in which it could’ve been better are laid out in the review, but cute is one thing it’s definitely not missing. I suspect some folks will get through a viewing riding one squee of delight to the next.

Chupa Makes Cryptids Cuddly | Film Obsessive

Then I got to do a double feature advance screening. That meant hopping out to River East in downtown Chicago and watching one flick followed almost immediately by another. The funny thing being that the tonal shift could not have been sharper. I started the afternoon watching a war movie full of bang-bang-boom and shot down the hall to catch a period piece about classical music.

The first film was The Covenant, Guy Richie flick featuring Jack Gyllenhaal. I confess I enjoyed writing the review more than watching the movie. The upside to a bad viewing experience is the dark delight of hammering back with sharp sarcasm. That’s not to suggest I think in any way my dismissal of this try-hard fail will bruise any egos involved in its production. However, there’s an odd catharsis to cutting criticism. 

The Covenant Juggles Too Many Live Grenades | Film Obsessive

Chevalier, in a way, made sense as a pairing with The Covenant. Both are films trying to deliver a serious message. Chevalier succeeds in that regard for the most part. Any flaws in the feature, as I expressed in the review, aren’t enough to trip up the movie. It involves such an intriguing topic, though, that not exploring things deeper can be frustrating. Fortunately, at least for me, it does what good historical fiction does, and inspires a viewer to seek out more information about its subject. Never trust filmmakers to give you the full proper history and truth is often more amazing than silver screen drama. To get what I’m talking about, follow the link below then do yourself a favor, at least look up the music of Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saints-George.

Chevalier Plays Well Despite Missing Notes | Film Obsessive

Things get a little weirder after that. I finished reading an anthology called “Pornography for the End of the World” which I must confess is a top tier title. It hooked me at a glance and sets up appropriate expectations. This is a collection of borderline splatterpunk horror stories by author Brendan Vidito. It’s a mixed bag with some pieces shining brighter than others, but there’s plenty of gruesome delights between these pages. For more details, check out my review. 

Reading Pornography for the End of the World - Horror Obsessive

Finally, I did a retrospective article looking back at the indie cult classic Velvet Goldmine. If you’re not familiar don’t worry about it. That’s part of the reason I write these articles. Hell, it wasn’t even well known when it came out. Yet, the movie has a following I think it deserves.

While not actually a biopic, Velvet Goldmine does draw inspiration from the life and music of David Bowie. The upside is that filmmaker Todd Haynes was free from the facts. The consequence is a movie that’s more about the idea of Bowie and glam rock and what that means for fans than it is a formulaic biopic. I won’t go into detail here, but what makes this movie special is laid in the article I wrote. So, click the link, and maybe watch it out soon!

25 Years Later, You Can Still Dig the Velvet Goldmine | Film Obsessive

Otherwise, I’ve been doing edits for stories I’ve sold. More details on when those will be available as well as where to read them. Sales seem to be going well at the moment; he said jinxing himself. I’ve also done some voiceover work this month. All in all, April is closing on a high note. I’m already reading another book to review and am scheduled for several advance screenings. That means more reviews in May, not to mention music projects coming to a close (finally), and who knows what else?
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Life feels like an adventure again. So, let’s all stay safe, and keep weird, while this train rolls to the next stop full of more marvelous madness. Cheers!

​This has been a fantastic month. Besides progressing on various projects, it feels like possibilities are worth pursuing. Don’t worry. Things here aren’t straying into hippie grade optimism, but as things come together, work that seemed out of reach is brushing fingertips reaching. That doesn’t mean the brass ring is in grasp, however, there’s no reason to stop going for it.
 
March contained a lot of high points as well as brain straining low points, but the latter served as chances to stretch. Granted, sometimes I’d like the strain to stop, and I’m not grateful for every obstacle but life isn’t always what we want. Still, there’s no way to get better without difficulty, especially if stopping only leads to drowning. 

And when it comes to facing adversity, there’s no better fictive example than John Wick. I recently got the privilege of reviewing the latest chapter in the franchise, John Wick: Chapter 4, for Film Obsessive. Full disclosure, I’m a fan of the whole series, yet I went in expecting a drop off in quality. By this point, given the history of cinema sequels, it seemed somewhat inevitable. I was not disappointed, and there’s nothing like a satisfying flick to refresh a person. To get what exactly worked, check out the review below then, better yet, see the movie yourself. 

John Wick: Chapter 4 Kills Any Doubt | Film Obsessive

​This March I also got to stretch with two articles that hit me where I live. St. Patrick’s around the corner, it felt necessary to do the obligatory Irish material. Personally, I look forward to this nonsense. Thankfully, Film Obsessive did me the kindness of indulging two article ideas.

The first involved Waking Ned Devine, a comedy about a town conspiring together to defraud the lottery. A whole community committed to a crime is right next to my heart. Make them all Irish—we’re off to the races. It’s a charming film that fits into a unique subgenre. To fully get why, well, check out the article below. I promise it’s not only worthwhile but may open you up to a whole new branch of comedy well worth exploring.

Discover Village Comedies Through Waking Ned Devine | Film Obsessive

The second article I got to do is a touch pretentious. They let me prattle on about the connection between James Joyce and cinema. Any article about James Joyce, especially his book “Ulysses”, runs certain risks. We’re going into territory that’s highly academic and ventures deep into book snob regions. And as I’ve written before, it’s not a book many have read or really need to read. However, I think I showed how movies have influenced art; that Joyce and his famous novel are milestones marking a shift in cultural expression. Give it a read and feel free to remark how you feel—yay or nay.

​A Taste of Cinema in James Joyce's Ulysses | Film Obsessive

​All things considered; March was a busy month with some fine accomplishments. I hope you’ve been able to be as productive (by your own standards). While I wish I did more, there’s still time ahead for future accomplishments. Until next time, I hope you stay safe, stay weird, and my best to you and yours.

First of all are a pair of articles over at Film Obsessive. That’s where I’ve been focusing a lot of my nonfiction efforts lately. The two I recently did involve a look at Rushmore by writer/director Wes Anderson and a cult classic called SLC Punk. I really enjoyed writing both, though the latter hit home with a certain degree of nostalgia. Not only for the film but the thrill of finding a gem that speaks to you—the joy of niche movies meant for a small audience.
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Rushmore allowed me to take a look at the movie as well as the career of Wes Anderson. Though I celebrate the auteur a bit, there’s also some criticism. Mainly, I managed to pen a piece that praised Anderson, while acknowledging that, perhaps, his style has run its course. Read the article and comment on the site if you agree or disagree. 

Then there’s my review of a flick called The Civil Dead which was a bit harder to write. Although I didn’t entirely care for the film, I could see how some might. So, I did my best to pen something honest as far as my feelings about the feature but which kept the window open for those inclined to give it a chance. What didn’t work for me and what might appeal to others is all in the article.