Shudder: August 2020 Highlights for U.S.

titles also available on Shudder Canada and Shudder UK as noted

SHUDDER ORIGINAL/EXCLUSIVE MOVIES

HOST (premieres Thursday, July 30)

Six friends hire a medium to hold a séance over Zoom during lockdown but get far more than they bargain for as things quickly go wrong. Host was shot remotely during quarantine and features practical scares, stunts, and surprises, all filmed by the actors in their own homes. Director Rob Savage (Dawn of the Deaf) never set foot in the same room as his actors at any point during production and instead directed them remotely. Starring: Haley Bishop (Deep State), Radina Drandova (Dawn of the Deaf), Edward Linard (The Rebels), Jemma Moore (Doom: Annihilation), Caroline Ward (Stalling It) and Emma Louise Webb (The Crown). A SHUDDER ORIGINAL (Also available on Shudder Canada and Shudder UK)  

LA LLORONA (premieres Thursday, August 6)

Winner: Venice Days. Official Selection: TIFF, Sundance Film Festival

Indignant retired general Enrique finally faces trial for the genocidal massacre of thousands of Mayans decades ago. As a horde of angry protestors threatens to invade their opulent home, the women of the house—his haughty wife, conflicted daughter, and precocious granddaughter—weigh their responsibility to shield the erratic, senile Enrique against the devastating truths being publicly revealed and the increasing sense that a wrathful supernatural force is targeting them for his crimes. Meanwhile, much of the family’s domestic staff flees, leaving only loyal housekeeper Valeriana until a mysterious young Indigenous maid arrives. Starring María Mercedes Coroy, Margarita Kénefic, Sabrina de la Hoz and Julio Díaz. Directed by Jaryo Bustamante. (Also available on Shudder Canada and Shudder UK) Trailer: https://youtu.be/SVf8in0dj9s 

RANDOM ACTS OF VIOLENCE (premieres Thursday, August 20)

Official Selection: Fantastic Fest

Comic book creator Todd, his wife, assistant and best friend all embark upon a road trip from Toronto to New York Comic Con, and bad things start to happen: people start getting killed. Is a crazed fan using Todd’s “SLASHERMAN” comic as inspiration for his stylized slaughter? Starring: Jesse Williams (‘Grey’s Anatomy’), Jordana Brewster (Furious 7), Niamh Wilson (Saw series) and Jay Baruchel (This Is the End). Directed by Jay Baruchel. (Also available on Shudder UK) Trailer: https://youtu.be/qvFk5-tvXrY 

THE SHED (premieres Thursday, August 27)

Official Selection: Sitges International Film Festival, Brooklyn Horror Film Festival

Stan and his best friend Dommer have put up with bullies their entire lives. All of that changes when Stan discovers he has a ravenous vampire living in his shed. Seeing the bloodshed and destruction the monster is capable of, Stan knows he has to find a way to destroy it. But Dommer has a much more sinister plan in mind. Starring Jay Jay Warren, Cody Kostro, Sofia Happonen, Frank Whaley and Timothy Bottoms. Directed by Frank Sabatella. (Also available on Shudder Canada) 

NEW SPECIALS FOR AUGUST

THE LAST DRIVE-IN: SUMMER SLEEPOVER SPECIAL (Friday, August 14 at 9pm ET/6pm PT)

Fire up the popcorn and slip into your PJs: Joe Bob Briggs, America’s foremost drive-in movie critic, is back for a special summer sleepover double-feature. Joining Joe Bob and Darcy in the trailer park will be director Adam Green (Frozen, Hatchet series) along with other surprise guests. 

NEW MOVIES FOR AUGUST

August 1

SQUIRM (Director: Jeff Lieberman)

Beware the crawling terror! A surge from a downed powerline mutates a seemingly endless population of worms into a bloodsucking, man-eating onslaught. Starring Don Scardino, Patricia Pearcy, R.A. Dow  (Also available on Shudder Canada)

URBAN LEGENDS: FINAL CUT (Director: John Ottman)

A film student's thesis project runs into production problems when her cast and crew members start turning up dead. Starring Jennifer Morrison, Eva Mendes, Anthony Anderson, Joseph Lawrence

August 3

AMITYVILLE 1992: IT’S ABOUT TIME (Director: Tony Randel)

An antique clock brought back from New York brings supernatural terror to a California neighborhood. Starring Stephen Macht, Shawn Weatherly, Megan Ward, Damon Martin

August 6

LA LLORONA (see above for details)

August 10

RING (Director: Hideo Nakata)

RING 2 (Director: Hideo Nakata)

RING 0 (Director: Norio Tsuruta)

In the film that kicked off the franchise as well as a Western surge in interest in so-called J-horror, a group of teenage friends are found dead, their faces twisted in terror, supposed victims of an urban legend about a cursed videotape. One year after the success of his horror classic, director Hideo Nakata returned to the world of viral video to deliver his own follow-up. And in the prequel Ring 0, a journalist tracks a young woman who uses her supernatural powers to kill members of an acting troupe. (Also available on Shudder Canada)

August 14

THE LAST DRIVE-IN WITH JOE BOB BRIGGS: SUMMER SLEEPOVER SPECIAL (see above for details)

August 17

JAWBREAKER (Director: Darren Stein)

Teen girls must cover up the accidental murder of a friend in this twisted ‘90s classic. Starring Rose McGowan, Rebecca Gayheart, Julie Benz, Judy Greer, Chad Christ, Carol Kane, Pam Greer

HELLMASTER (Director: Douglas Schulze)

A mad professor at a rural campus injects students with a drug to make them superhuman mutants. Starring John Saxon, David Emge, Amy Raasch (Also available on Shudder Canada)

UNCAGED (Director: Dick Maas)

A zoo veterinarian is caught up in a grisly adventure as she leads the hunt for a monstrous lion terrorizing Amsterdam. Starring Sophie van Winden, Abbey Hoes,  Mark Frost, Julian Looman  (Also available on Shudder Canada)

August 20

RANDOM ACTS OF VIOLENCE (see above for details)

August 24

THE EVIL (Director: Gus Trikonis)

A psychologist and his wife turn a house of the devil into a drug-rehabilitation center. Starring Richard Crenna, Joanna Pettet, Andrew Prine (Also available on Shudder Canada)

MORTUARY (Director: Howard Avedis)

Christie has been having terrifying nightmares ever since her father drowned, causing her to re-evaluate the circumstances surrounding his death. Starring Mary Beth McDonough, David Wysocki, Bill Paxton, Lynda Day George, Christopher George (Also available on Shudder Canada)

ONE DARK NIGHT (Director: Tom McLoughlin)

As part of an initiation into a club called The Sisters, a young girl must spend the night in a mausoleum. Starring Meg Tilly, Melissa Newman, Robin Evans, Leslie Speights, Donald Hotton  (Also available on Shudder Canada)

30 MILES FROM NOWHERE (Director: Caitlin Koller)

When five college pals return home for their estranged friend's funeral, what begins as an uneasy reunion becomes a terrifying fight for survival. Starring Carrie Preston, Rob Benedict, Birgundi Baker (Also available on Shudder Canada)

August 27

THE SHED (see above for details)

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ABOUT SHUDDER:

AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland and Germany. To experience Shudder commitment-free for 7 days, visit ​www.shudder.com​.

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Impetigore (Review)

Writer/ Director: Joko Anwar
Cast: Tara Basro, Ario Bayu, Marissa Anita, Christine Hakim, Asmara Abigail, Niki Narenda
Year: 2019
Min: 106

It is night time and Maya (Tara Basro) is working at a toll booth. She's on the phone telling her friend, Dini (Marissa Anita), who is working at another toll booth, about some stalker. Soon said stalker appears and tries to kill her. He is soon shot dead by the cops. Later on, thanks to a photo from her aunt and what the creeper told her, she finds out that she has inherited a large house in a small village. She and Dini go to said village to get the inheritance. Soon, they realize that something is very wrong there, and their lives are at risk in increasing danger.

That is about all I will tell you about the plot, since part Impetigore is the mystery of it. The flick is an Indonesian, supernatural horror film from the country's reigning master of the genre, Joko (Satan's Slave) Anwar. He serves as writer and director of this creepy and decidedly fresh take on ghosts and witchcraft. As much as I enjoyed his earlier movie Satan's Slaves, I think this one is even better.

Anwar's directing is top notch. The beginning of the film is creepy as fucking hell and builds tension really well. It is a legitimately scary scene that is exactly how you start off a horror movie! The flick actually has some genuinely spine-chilling moments throughout. Anwar really know how to build fear and suspense, especially in stalk and chase sequences. Even when the movie looks like it is headed into generic territory, it ends up being done in a good and gory way. For example what you will early on dismiss as typical creepy kid ghosts are done so well here, especially in terms of one bloody, good shock scene.

Speaking of gory, the movie has some real holy shit moments. For example, there is one featuring already flayed skin that is hung out to dry that made even this jaded old gorehound's eyes pop out! While, American horror is usually afraid to tackle the killing of children, this movie ain't. Yet, it doesn't feel exploitative or for pure shock value, as it is of utmost importance to the plot. Splatter wise, the film really loves throat slashings, flayings, and machete mayhem.

Credit must be also be given to Anwar's script. The mystery of what is going on is interestingly constructed and very well done. It may unravel slowly, but throughout the movie it keeps your attention glued to what is happening onscreen. There are some really good twists that propel the action and tale being told. The shock ending could've come out as silly, but it's actually decidedly unnerving.

The acting is excellent and the cast really bring their respective characters to life. Especially good are Tara Masro as Maya and Marissa Anita as Dini. Both are super likable and have great chemistry with each other. As such, their friendship is handled really well.

Impetigore is so fucking good! It is a solid shocker with a mysterious plot that really holds you in its tight, icy grip. This is achieved through Anwar's white knuckle directing and tight script. The flick is hair-raising, edge of your seat genre film-making. I especially love the way the storyline unfolds. Shocking bits of graphic violence further adds to the uneasiness. The excellent acting, especially from Basro and Anita, add more merits to the film. Anwar continues to show that he is a force to be reckoned with in Indonesian/ Asian horror. You should check this out for yourself when the movie begins streaming on Shudder this Thursday, July 23, 2020.

3 out of 4

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Friday the 13th: Ranked from Worst to Best

On Monday the 13th, Shout Factory, the horror/ cult division of Shout Factory (of course!), announced pre-orders, for what promises to be a killer Friday the 13th box set. I debated back and forth getting it, but in the end I caved in. And, I feel I made the right choice. Anyway, with that in mind, I figured it would be fun and the right time, to rank the entire series, something I last did with King Kong. So, here we go with the biggest (thus far) slasher series in horror, from the very worst entry all the way to the best one!

ALL REVIEWS OUT 4 HOCKEY MASKS

12. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)- Man, is this movie ever a disappointing piece of shit. Even if you discount the fact that it barely takes place in Manhattan (most of which is actually Canada!), and instead is in a fucking boat, you still have other issues. It is painfully stupid and filled with character you could give a flying fuck about. It doesn't even have any real gore to speak of, being terribly weak in terms of bloodletting. It also has a shitty ending. I will say this about it though, the actual Manhattan scenes are cool, the theme song is great, the girls are HOT, especially Sharlene (Tamara) Martin and Kelly (Eva) Hu, the doggie is cute, and Kane Hodder is always a great Jason. This is about all the praise this turd will get from me though.
1 1/2 HOCKEY MASKS

11. Friday the 13th (2009)- The first time I saw this remake, I enjoyed it. But, each viewing since then has gotten worse than the last. One of the problems is the flat directing. While the film looks nice there is little to no suspense. Scenes drag out longer than they need to be. This really becomes clear in the Jason and his underground lair moments. Also, why the fuck does he even have one in the first fucking place? While, violent, the movie isn't that gory, but there are still some inspired moments. That being said, the acting is solid (including Supernatural's Jared Padalecki) and the female cast is hotter than hell itself! Included in this is Juliana Guilll's awesome topless scene, which ranks among the best skin moments in the entire franchise. Also, Derek Mears is one of the best Jasons ever!
2 HOCKEY MASKS

10. Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993)- Admit ably I used to like this one more when I was in college. But, I still think it's better than what some say it is. It has some major problems, don't get me wrong. The movie heavily rips off of the vastly superior sci-fi/ horror/ action flick The Hidden, and the lack of seeing Jason commit the kills is awful. But, it has what might well be the finest gore in the entire franchise, including the spectacular scene where a smoking hot brunette is riding her boyfriend, gets impaled, then split open. And, speaking of girls this one has some really hot ones! Plus, the ending is really cool.  And, Hodder, even in limited bits, is always awesome.
2.5 HOCKEY MASKS

9. Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood (1988)- Here is another one that I liked a more when I was younger, in this case an actual kid. You see it's one of the first R-rated horror movies, I ever caught outside of their TV edited versions. But, admit ably it is really fucking stupid. The ending, in particular, is fucking ridiculous. And, it suffers A LOT from the butchering hands of the MPAA, who seriously hamper every single kill. In spite of this, the movie is fun. The idea of telekinetic teen Tina (say that 5 times fast!), who is played by the gorgeous Lar Park Lincoln, battling Jason makes for a cool time. Tina also happens to be one of my favorite final girls in the series. And, she and bitchy Melissa (Susan Jennifer Sullivan) are two of my biggest F13 crushes. Though, there are quite a bit of other hotties in this one. Plus, Kane Hodder makes his awesome debut as Jason, in what is THE character's best look, EVER!
2.5 HOCKEY MASKS


8. Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning (1985)- Again, this movie is for accounts and purposes stupid as fuck. It is actually pretty hilarious in its stupidity. But, it also has a nice mean spirited side that makes for some nasty albeit quick kills. The girls are hot as ever, including, but not limited to, Debi Sue Voorhees (and her incredible boobs) and Melanie Kinnaman (who is THE hottest of all the F13 final girls, in my humble opinion). I also enjoy the Tommy Jarvis story-line, and unlike those that love to bitch and moan, like the idea of a fake Jason.
2.5 HOCKEY MASKS

5. Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)- This one sometimes gets a bit overrated by fans hung up on Jason finally doing the killings. And, while, sack-head Jason is easily his creepiest look, the movie, itself, is strictly by the numbers and generic. The gore is horribly chopped up by the MPAA, making the kills lack any of the real punch that they may have had. Still, the girls are super hot, especially Lauren-Marie Taylor (probably in my top F13th crushes) and Kristen Baker (that ass in THOSE shorts!). The lovely Amy Steel is one of the best final girls, anywhere. And, finally the climax is pretty exciting and well done.
3 HOCKEY MASKS


6. Jason X (2001)- Someone is bound to bitch about this one being so high, but I think it is a blast. It's dumb for sure, I mean it's Jason in fucking space for crissakes! But, there in lies the good times. The girls are freaking insanely hot. Uber-Jason is awesome. And, speaking of Jason, Hodder is always a pleasure to see (this is his best F13 flick, me thinks). I LOVE the David Cronenberg cameo! Jason battling sexy android Kay-Em is one of my favorite things in the series. And, the frozen face smash of the gorgeous Kristi Angus is one of the coolest kills ever in the series.
3 HOCKEY MASKS

5. Friday the 13th Part 3: 3D (1982)- This movie is kind of a drag at first. And, the character of Shelly is one of the most insufferable nerds ever in a slasher. But, it does deliver the goods in other ways. First off, I think it works best in 3D (even if its in a crappy 3D version). Secondly, the girls, all brunettes might I add, are HOT! Some of the kills are cool, especially the dude who gets chopped through the crotch while walking on his hands. But, its the KILLER climax (one of the series absolute best) that really gains the movie it's fifth place in my book.
3 HOCKEY MASKS

4. Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)- Of course, it is NOT the final chapter, though, it would've been quite fine if it had been. The pacing is well done here, and Tommy makes for a relatable kid (likes monsters and seeing girls naked, that's little me!). Some of THE hottest girls in the entire series are here, including TWINS! This one has the best gore (thank you, Tom Savini!) in the whole Paramount years, including the best and bloodiest death by Jason (THAT slide down a machete!). The climax kicks ass and is also highlighted by Kimberly Beck in a miniskirt.
3 HOCKEY MASKS

3. Freddy Vs. Jason (2003)- Over on my list of The 25 Most Underrated/ Overlooked Sequels, I discussed just why this one is so good. If you want to read my thoughts go here. Suffice to say this, it has flaws, no doubt about it. But, it is also a lot of fun, nice looking, gory, has cool music, and hot girls. And, of course, we get to see Freddy and Jason battle!
3.5 HOCKEY MASKS

2. Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986)- Look there is no doubt in my mind that this is the best of all the F13 sequels. It is also one of the best slasher flicks of the second half of the 80s. I share more of my thoughts of why it is so good in here in my list of The 30 Best Horror Movie Sequels Ever.
3.5 HOCKEY MASKS

1. Friday the 13th (1980)-  To me, this is the only choice that can top this list. None of the sequels, even the best ones, come close to this one, as it is one of the greatest slashers ever and best horror films of the 80s. Their is a lot of rehashing in the following movies, but while this borrows from Halloween, it does it well. The movie, yes is gory (incredible work from Tom Savini!), but there is an emphasis on suspense, something lacking from all the other films here. This makes the movie actually scary, something, that again none of the other movies can claim to be (unless you are like five years old). The climax is absolutely smashing, violent, and intense and leads to one of the greatest endings in the entire horror genre. An influential, important, and excellent classic, that shall forever remain one of my personal favorites.
4 HOCKEY MASKS

How would you rank the franchise? Did you pre-order the Scream Factory box-set? Why or why not? Also, what other horror franchises would you like to see me rank? Let me know in the comments section below. And, don't be surprised if you see more Friday the 13th posts in the days, weeks, and months to come!

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Shudder Renews "The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs" for 3rd Season & Reveals "Summer Sleepover" Special with Adam Green Announced!

July 14, 2020 — Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thriller, and the supernatural, today announced that it has renewed its hit original series The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs for a third season to air in 2021. The service also announced a special “summer sleepover” double feature pre-taped prior to quarantine that will feature a visit to the trailer park from horror filmmaker Adam Green along with other surprise guests. The special episode will premiere on Friday, August 14, at 9pm ET/6pm PT.  Shudder is also planning several Last Drive-In specials for later this year and next year, with details to be announced later.

“I can’t believe it’s only been two years since that first marathon called The Last Drive-In,” said host Joe Bob Briggs. “To have a third season, and continue to experience the love and encouragement that daily pours out of the Shudder community, is more than I could ever have hoped for. It’s been a very difficult year for all of us, but I hope we can continue to be a little oasis where people come to celebrate holidays and weekends and that special family feeling that only horror fans know.”

“The Last Drive-In continues to be a great success story for Shudder, trending in the Top 10 on Twitter during each live Friday night episode, and also driving tremendous on-demand viewing,” said Shudder General Manager Craig Engler. “We’re delighted to bring Joe Bob back for a third season, and we’re also planning some incredibly fun specials that we’ll announce down the road.”

In each episode, Briggs, the world’s foremost drive-in movie critic, presents an eclectic horror movie double feature, interrupting the films to expound upon their merits, histories and significance to genre cinema. The Last Drive-In premieres on Shudder’s live feed before being made available on demand; proving that an SVOD service can create appointment television, the show’s hashtag, #TheLastDriveIn, has trended in the top 10 on Twitter in the US during the premiere of every episode and special, often reaching No. 1.

Shudder and Briggs first teamed up in July 2018, for the 24-hour The Last Drive-In marathon, intended to be Briggs’ final farewell to televised movie hosting. Due to overwhelming popular demand, Shudder brought The Last Drive-In back as a weekly series the following year. Past seasons of The Last Drive-In have featured guest appearances by AEW wrestling superstar Chris Jericho, actor/director/FX legend Tom Savini, horror icons Barbara Crampton, Kelli Maroney, Ashley Laurence and Doug Bradley and filmmakers Lloyd Kaufman and John McNaughton, among others.

The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs is produced by Matt Manjourides and Justin Martell and directed by Austin Jennings.

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ABOUT SHUDDER

AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland and Germany. New members can enjoy 30-days free with the promo code SHUTIN when signing up at Shudder.com.

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New Trailers to Upcoming Shudder Exclusives: Random Act of Violence, Lake of Death, & Impetigore!

RANDOM ACTS OF VIOLENCE — PREMIERES AUGUST 20 ON SHUDDER (US & UK) / THEATRES & ON DEMAND IN CANADA VIA ELEVATION PICTURES JULY 31

Red Band Trailer: https://youtu.be/qvFk5-tvXrY / Green Band: https://youtu.be/aYYMR9nRouQ

Synopsis: Comic book creator Todd Walkley (Jesse Williams), his wife Kathy (Jordana Brewster), assistant Aurora (Niamh Wilson) and best friend, Hard Calibre Comics owner Ezra (Jay Baruchel), embark upon a road trip from Toronto to New York Comic Con and bad things start to happen. People start getting killed. It soon becomes clear that a crazed fan is using Todd’s “SLASHERMAN” comic as inspiration for the killings and as the bodies pile up, and Todd’s friends and family become victims themselves, Todd will be forced to take artistic responsibility. A Shudder Original.

Director: Jay Baruchel

Writers: Jay Baruchel, Jesse Chabot  

Starring: Jesse Willimas, Jordana Brewster, Jay Baruchel, Niamh Wilson

Music: Wade MacNeil and Andrew Gordon Macpherson

LAKE OF DEATH — PREMIERES THIS THURSDAY, JULY 16 (US, CA & UK)

Trailer: https://youtu.be/Ox2JVAu6uaA

Synopsis: A year after her twin brother mysteriously disappeared, Lillian and her friends head to the old family cabin to say their goodbyes. But soon after they arrive, eerie and gruesome events begin to occur. As the lines between reality and Lillian's nightmares blur, she must fight both an external and internal struggle to stay alive. Is a horrific local legend becoming reality, or is the real enemy among them?

Director Nini Bull Robsahm (Amnesia) took inspiration from Norway’s popular 1942 novel (and later film adaptation) of the same name (De dødes tjern), credited with sparking the country’s interest in horror. Robsahm shot Lake of Death on stunning 35mm and brought on Academy Award-winner Bob Murawski (Army of Darkness, Drag Me to Hell, The Hurt Locker) to edit. Starring Iben Akerlie, Jacob Andersen Schøyen, Jonathan Harboe, Sophia Lie and Elias Mun. A Shudder Original.

IMPETIGORE — PREMIERES THURSDAY, JULY 23 (US, CA & UK)

Trailer: https://youtu.be/pdKU13L5MCI

Synopsis: (Sundance 2020 Official Selection) After surviving a murder attempt in the city, Maya, a down-on-her-luck young woman, learns that she may inherit a house in her ancestral village. With her friend Dini, Maya returns to the village of her birth, unaware that the community there has been trying to locate and kill her to remove the curse that has plagued the village for years. As she begins to discover the complicated reality about her past, Maya finds herself in a fight for her life. Starring Tara Basro, Ario Bayu, Marissa Anita, Christine Hakim, Asmara Abigail, directed by Joko Anwar (Satan’s Slaves). A Shudder Original.

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The 25 Most Underrated/ Overlooked Horror Sequels

Last time I presented you guys with The 30 Best Horror Sequels Ever. Now, I wanted to give you some sequels that are underrated and/ or overlooked. A bunch of these don't get talked about enough (some are outright forgotten) or get way more hate than they deserve. What should be getting, instead, is another shot.

25. The Howling VI: The Freaks (1991)- The first Howling is, in my humble opinion, the greatest werewolf movie. Its sequel suck wolf dick, though. Then low and behold, we got to the sixth one, and it is actually good! Wait, what?! Yup, it is. Featuring an awesome vampire vs. werewolf story, a kick ass climax, and awesome FX, this is one that is unexpected in its quality, unlike the crap that comes before and follows it...

24. Alien: Resurrection (1997)- Alien 3 tends to split the audience (count me in as not a fan...), however, this fourth entry feels like it gets more hate. Which is a shame since it is a fun and, I think, more enjoyable installment. It has an amazing cast, some really cool practical effects, and great gore. Plus, the underwater scene is pretty fucking awesome!

23. Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 (2000)- Unjustly maligned second entry is way better than its reputation. Also, it has aged a lot better than its preceding movie, which, in my humble opionion does not hold up today. If you wanna read more of my thoughts on it, go here.

22. The First Purge (2018)- This prequel to The Purge franchise is an entertaining and interesting one. It fills in the early story quite well, with a politically charged script, strong acting, and rousing and violent action.

21. See No Evil 2 (2014)- The first movie is a decent enough slasher movie, but this is one is much better But, then again it is made by the always awesome Soska sister, who elevate this slasher flick thanks to some stylish directing and great gore. It's a fun flick too, with Kane returning as Jacob Goodnight, and some pretty good acting. Also, the three ladies (Danielle Harris, Katharine Isabelle, and Chelan Simmons) are insanely gorgeous.

20. Species II (1998)- Admit ably I am not a big fan of the first film, although it has some good things (mostly Natasha Henstridge). But, I do enjoy this sequel quite a bit more. It is gloriously sleazy, especially for a big budget studio horror franchise flick. The practical effects are awesome, and there is some really good gore. It's great to see Michael Madsen, the gorgeous Marg Helgenberger, and, of course, the absolutely stunning Henstridge come back . In the later's case, it is even more fun to cheer for her this time around. In all, this superior sequel is a bloody and sexy good time.

19. Amityville: The Awakening (2017)- This one definitely falls under it has no right to be this good category. Especially when you realize that so many of the movies in this series are crappy, how often it was delayed (and eventually sent direct to VOD), and that is seemingly was cut from an R to a PG-13. Yet, despite a slow pace, it tells a good and involving (albeit unoriginal) story and has some solid acting from the cast, including the gorgeous Bella Thorne. Who, may I say, looks hot as fucking hell as a goth chick!

18. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)- Often forgotten, this prequel tells of the early years of the lycan/ vampire battle. It's exciting, fast paced, and gory. I believe it to be the second best sequel (after the second flick). And, it is really helped by the underrated Rhona Mitra, who is among the most naturally sexy actresses ever.

17. Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995)- This one gets some hate sometimes, but those who love it know how good it is. OK, so you could say that explaining so much about Michael isn't the right choice. But, you know what? I think it works much better than the story of 2018's Halloween. There are two versions of this film, as most of you know. The theatrical cut is the shorter and faster flick, with some cool gore (including an awesome exploding head). And, while that ending is bad, it's better than the producer's cut. But, that cut tells a better and more fleshed out story. Either cut is entertaining and has some likable performances. I enjoy watching it quite a bit more than some other more popular entries (including the aforementioned latest installment). It's nicely shot too and has some pretty ladies, adding to its appeal. Oh, and before you say Halloween III: Season of the Witch, that movie hasn't been underrated in a very long time.

16. Aliens Vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)- The first AVP is OK, just OK. It is marred by a stupid PG-13 rating and terrible human characters that you won't give a flying fuck about. But, the monster action was cool. This sequel is often crapped on, and I don't get why. It is a much better movie than that aforementioned flick. The gore here is graphic, and the movie has a real mean spirit to it. The pacing is fast, and it tells an enjoyable if empty headed story. About, my only real complaint is that the flick is too darkly lit. The Blu-ray does help out, in this department, though.

15. Amityville: It's About Time (1992)- By fucking FAR the best of the cursed items Amityville films, this one is a total delight. It has some solid acting (including a very sexy performance by the gorgeous Megan Ward) and some of the best gore of the entire franchise. I've long been a fan of this flick, and it actually has aged really well. As a matter of fact, I think I like it even more nowadays!

14. Hellraiser III: Hell on Earth (1992)- Let's cut straight to the point here. This is the last good Hellraiser movie, as the rest that follow can honestly rot in hell for I fucking care. It isn't as great, as the first two, but that is OK. The flick is a ton of fun. It moves at a fast pace, has some great gore, a good cast, hot babes (including Terry Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Farrell and Paula Marshall), and an absolutely killer rock/ heavy metal soundtrack.

13. The Fly II (1989)- First and foremost, this movie is nowhere near as great as David Cronenberg's superlative and preceding masterpiece. But, it works wonderfully as a rousing and fun monster sci-fi/ horror movie. It is elevated by the amazing FX work by Chris Walas (who also directed), including some great gore. The later of which includes a face melting and head crushing that push the limits of the R-rating. There is also some great acting, especially from Eric Stoltz, who like in Mask, shows that how good an actor he is even under latex, the beautiful Daphne Zuniga, and the villainous character played by Lee Richardson. It is also not above adding a lot of heart, too, including an utter heartbreaking moment involving a doggie, that all these years and viewings later I cannot watch. Cause if I do, I fucking break and cry my eyes out.

12. Resident Evil: Extinction (2007)- Taking place in a ruined La Vegas, this fast past and action packed sequel is honest to God my favorite entry in this silly series. The lovely Mila Jovovich kicks some major ass and there is lots of wonderful bits of splattery violence. Plus, it bought it in the addition of the absolutely gorgeous Ali Larter, making it even more awesome! The less said of two piece of shit movies that followed it the better, though...

11. Freddy Vs. Jason (2003)- It took forever for this crossover to be made. And, yes it has its issues (some humor doesn't work, Jason's fear of water makes no sense within the context of the franchise, Kane Hodder is missed), but it is still a shit load of fun. There some killer gore and a really nice stylish look to it. Plus, the metal soundtrack is pretty fucking cool. I truly think that it ranks with the best entries in both franchises.

10. Jigsaw (2010)- I honestly didn't think that this movie would tie into the preceding movies and do it so well. But, thanks to a solid script it really does! The gore and traps are cool, including a wicked and bloody laser gag. The girls are pretty, and the acting is really good. I honest to God, wish they had continued from here. But, I guess we shall see where it all goes when Spiral comes out next year, or whenever the fuck this damn virus lets come out.

9. Wishmaster: The Prophecy Fulfilled (2002)- People love to shit on the non-Andrew Divoff Wishmaster movies. And, well they should totally take a dump on the third one. However, this is a good fucking entry. I love that the three wishes are actually made. It makes for a good story, which in turn is further lifted by strong acting especially from the absolutely stunning Tara Spencer-Nairn (who wins extra points as one of the few final girls to get naked). And, you know what? I am gonna take this chance to say this is is my favorite entry in the franchise. So how is that for praise?

8. Dracula's Daughter (1936)- Todd Browning's classic Dracula is one of the seminal horror movies of all time. But, it is objectively only a decent movie. It feels staged and suffers from bad pacing. This all makes it a movie I respect but don't love. This one, its first sequel in the franchise, is a superior movie. It tells a good story and is much better paced. The beautiful Gloria Holden plays the title character wonderfully. She is seductive, deadly, and, at times, sympathetic. It also has a scene with very strong lesbian undertones that somehow made it past the Hayes codes.

7. Scre4m (2011)- I never expected this movie to be as good as it is. At this point in his career Wes Craven had been making movies that ranged from OK (Red Eye) to utter garbage (Curse, My Soul to Take) and his own third Scream flick was total shit itself. Well, low and behold, this one blew me away! It's fun and easily has the best gore in the series. Also, can I mention how much I love Hayden Panettiere's character? I mean she's a hottie who loves Argento, if that isn't wifey material, then I don't fucking know what is!

6. Paranormal Activity 3 (2011)- This franchise is a little uneven in quality, with the odd numbered entries being the best. And, this third entry is the best one, period. It is a great prequel, with one of fuck an ending and some really solid and creepy moments. And, yes by saying it is the best entry, I mean it is even better than the first flick!

5. Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970)- Brides of Dracula maybe the best of all Hammer's Dracula sequels, but this one is the best sequel actually featuring Christopher Lee as Dracula. Wonderfully evil and highly entertaining, this is a fucking killer entry in the series.

4. Final Destination 5 (2011)- To me this is the third best entry in the series, after the first two. The kills are gory, including a truly harrowing lasik surgery scene that will have anyone who uses glasses and/ or contacts squirming in their seats. And, the ending is fucking AWESOME!! For more of my thoughts, check out my review.

3. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning (2006)- This is gonna piss some off, but to me this is the second best entry in the entire franchise (after the Hooper original). This killer prequel to the exceptionally mediocre remake (an exercise in style over substance) is vastly superior. The characters are actually likable (imagine that in a slasher movie!) and the actors portraying them are good. Especially the beautiful Jordana Brewster, who is a great "final" girl. R. Lee Ermey is awesome once again as Hoyt, stealing some scenes outright! The gore is nasty and graphic, and the girls are really hot. Basically, this one does what it needs to do and then some!

2. I Spit on Your Grave 2 (2013)- This flick is a separate story from the previous remake, but it is connected by theme. It is a brutal and violently graphic entry in this splatter filled franchise. The flick has some harrowing rape and sexual torture scenes, but they pay off is once the revenge part starts. The absolutely stunning Jemma Dallender gives an amazing performance as our heroine. She is clearly sympathetic, and we cheer her on. Her vengeance scenes are bloody and violent involving, electrocution, shit, the series favorite of male genital violence, and more. It is a rough and uncompromising flick that deserves a lot more love and now!

1. Frankenstein Created Woman (1967)- How this one isn't more of a classic, I just don't know. First and foremost Peter Cushing gives his Dr. Frankenstein one of his most complex and interesting takes. Also, excellent is the beautiful Susan Denberg as the titular woman. She is one of Hammer's most fascinating female characters. Another of the best in Hammer is the story which tackles sexual identity, revenge, the human soul, and bullying. There is some gore, too, and an ending that is perfect to the story. In all, this one of Hammer's very best movie, and no less an expert than Martin Scorsese says it is his favorite. Scream Factory put out a superlative Blu-ray of it, so now is the best time to rediscover this great flick.

I would love to know what are some of your favorite underrated or overlooked horror sequels. Let me know in the comments section. Also, be sure to stayed tuned for the final part of my sequel series as I pick the worst horror sequels!

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