Meet Vernon Mortensen…
It’s not everyday that you see a totally original idea for a zombie film. Today I had that day! Vernon Mortensen is Director and Producer of Universal Dead. He is also a former U.S Navy SWCC. It is a real pleasure to sit down with an American Hero and one hell of a Director. With only three short webisodes, this film has me wanting more. So without delay, I present an interview on behalf of From Dusk Till Con preformed by yours truly…
Meet Vernon Mortensen…
Malice Psychotik: So today I have the honor of interviewing not only a phenomenal director, but a former member of our county’s Navy. We’re here to talk about his web series Universal Dead. We’ll get to that in a minute. First I want to talk about you. You were an US Navy SWCC, what is that exactly?
Vernon Mortensen: Navy Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (or SWCC, pronounced “swick”) are organized into Special Boat Teams and usually work with US Navy SEALs and other special operation forces. We are experts in Special Operations but are masters of Maritime Special Operations and operate and maintain an inventory of state-of-the-art, high-performance assault boats used to conduct special operations missions. We are experts in covert mobility.
Navy SWCCs and SEALs go through separate but similar training. Navy SWCCs must pass a 22 week course in order to earn a spot in the Teams. Only about 20% of the students pass this unforgiving course to earn the coveted SWCC warfare badge. Most students quit because the training is just too mentally and physically difficult.
A Navy SWCC must become an expert in weapons, tactics, engineering, combat medicine, radio and satellite communications, land and sea navigation, air operations, water rescue, wilderness and ocean survival, and so much more!
It was the best job (next to filmmaking of course) that anyone can have!
Malice: What made you decide to do film? Was it something you decided while in the service, or had it always been in the back of your mind?
Vernon: When I was in High School, my father’s cousin was a Teamster at Universal Studios and he took me to work with him on the set of Back to the Future for two weeks. That’s when I decided I wanted to make movies. The Navy career came first, but I always knew I would make movies for a living sooner or later.
Malice: What kind of films do you like?
Vernon: I like them all! I always have a special place in my heart for sci-fi/horror, but I’m a filmmaker… I love them all. I have a boxing movie called The Kid: Chamaco starring Martin Sheen, that’s in theaters across the USA right now (http://sites.google.com/site/chamacofilm/). My film company, Unconventional Films, is also making a western called “The Sorrow” this year.
Malice: Do you have a preference when it comes to zombie films?
Vernon: The original Day of the Dead set the benchmark in my opinion.
Malice: Your theory of the zombocolypse it, uber original! Why Physics? Why that over infection?
Vernon: That comes from my business partner and the writer of Universal Dead, Kelly Parks. Kelly is the world’s only Ex-CIA/Rocket Scientist/Stand-up Comic/Screenwriter and is a very smart (like MENSA smart) aerospace engineer and all around science geek.
When Kelly and I were kicking around the idea for Universal Dead, he always had a problem with the whole “infection theory.” An infection doesn’t explain how a zombie can sustain a shotgun blast to the heart and keep coming at you. No, that really bothered Kelly, so like any good scientist; he sat down and developed a workable theory of physics that explained how zombies behave. It really is brilliant.
Malice: Universal Undead has a pretty original concept. Where did you draw some of your inspiration from?
Vernon: Kelly is a huge fan of the book “Flatland” by Edwin Abbott Abbott. There’s even a reference to it in the 3rd episode. The book inspired him to develop the theory that Dr. Vattaber (Doug Jones) gives us in Universal Dead.
Aside from that, the story is different from most zombie movies because it does not take place on “Day Zero” or the days soon after the apocalypse starts. Universal Dead takes place five years after “Day Zero” and these people are all that’s left of the human race. Tight-knit communities of survivors have formed and usually, but not always, under the supervision of the remaining military units, and these people don’t fall for the usual zombie non-sense (as you see in the “bite check” scene in episode 1).
These people are damaged! They have baggage we can’t even imagine and that makes for very interesting characters.
Malice: Are you planning on keeping this idea in a webisode format, or do you think you will move to something bigger?
Vernon: We have just signed contracts with one of the lot producers at Paramount Studios. We are going to be making Universal Dead as a 3D movie to be released by Paramount sometime in late 2011.
Malice: At any rate, you really have my anticipation up for the next webisode. Can we expect to see it soon?
Vernon: Sorry, our deal stipulates that we stop releasing episodes until the movie comes out… but hey, Universal Dead is gonna be a 3D movie… UD3D!
Malice: Let’s move to your production company, Unconventional Films. How did this idea come about?
Neil Trusso, one of the other partners in Unconventional Films and Producer of Universal Dead, is a former Navy SEAL. Neil and I were deployed together to the war-torn African nation of Somalia in 1994, as depicted in the movie “Black Hawk Down,” and while we were there, Neil and I started making comic books. I would write the stories and Neil would illustrate them. That was the beginning of our collaboration and the beginning of Unconventional Films.
And BTW, there are four real US Navy SEALs in Universal Dead who play our Navy SEALs; Craig Sawyer (History Channel’s Top Shot) Cade Courtley (Spike TV’s Surviving Disaster) Joe Baker (Afghan Knights) and Rob Guzzo (Transformers 3).
Kelly Parks and I met years later at a meeting of the professional organization, San Diego Filmmakers, and we really hit it off. While we were producing our first web series, The Crusader (www.watchthecrusader.com ), we made Kelly a partner. Kelly wrote and directed most of the episodes of The Crusader and really impressed us so we asked him to join our insane asylum.
Everything else is history…
Malice: What else can we expect to see from this company?
Vernon: We have more horror/sci-fi projects in the pipeline, and as I mentioned before, there’s our boxing movie, The Kid: Chamaco and our western, The Sorrow. We have a ton of co-productions in the pipeline with our sister company, Rogue Arts. They [Rogue Arts] are mainly an indie drama company, but with the boxing movie The Kid: Chamaco, they are venturing into the “genre” movie world with us and they now want to be a part of a few of our upcoming genre movies including our western.
Rogue Arts is quite a success story. The owner, Kirk Harris, is a great friend and has been running this company; successfully I might add, for over 15 years! That’s quite a track record for an indie company. Rogue Arts has a huge catalog of movies and is always making new movies.
Malice: Well it’s a trademark of mine to ask a round of off the wall questions. Are you game for some madness?
Vernon: Sure…
Malice: What are your feelings on a Zombie Apocalypse? Thinks it’s possible?
Vernon: Well the science is there, as Kelly Parks proved… but I think the closest thing we will probably ever experience, or have a real possibility of experiencing, is a pandemic scenario. In a pandemic, the rule of law eventually collapses as government succumbs to the same disease that’s killing everybody else. At this point, the people who are left, the survivors, revert to being animals and all humanity is lost. This is a scenario that I could see actually happening on a global scale… scary!
Malice: In a zombie crisis, what’s your weapon of choice?
Vernon: I’ve actually given this a lot of thought. Zombies are very different from the adversaries a military man like me is used to confronting. We don’t have issues like zombies wearing body armor, or using intelligent tactics against us. Wounding a zombie does no good and is a waste of ammo. Knocking a zombie down might save you some time, but guess what? The zombie will get back up and come after you. The only thing that matters is damaging the brain and impairing brain function.
I would choose a weapon with a military caliber and one of the lighter calibers so I could carry more. If you know where to look, the military has bunkers full of ammo all across the USA. Because I’d only need to focus on penetrating the skull and damaging the brain, bigger, heavier calibers like 7.62 or 12ga. are out. So, I’d probably settle on an M4 in the 5.56 caliber. I’d probably have a suppressor (most people call them silencers but there is no such thing as a silent gun) so that I could minimize the attention I’d call to myself if I did have to shoot a zombie. Maybe I’d even add a fast target acquisition system like an “Aimpoint” or an “EOTech.” For long distance I’ve always been partial to the ACOG (I had one on my M4 in the Navy). Availability of parts and simple operation and maintenance are also big considerations.
With the M4 the options are endless!
Malice: Do you like Predators or Aliens?
Vernon: I like it when Predators fight Aliens!
Malice: Lucio Fulci or George Romero?
Vernon: Fulci is good but Romero all the way… except for Land of the Dead. Hated that one!
Malice: This was a very enlightening conversation. Thank you for doing this interview. It was honor on so many levels! A great director and an honest to God Patriot. Is there anything else you would like to add before we finish?
Vernon: Just one thing…
Those of us who made Universal Dead are big zombie fans! We set out to make a movie/web series that would make us and the other fans out there very happy and it appears that we have succeeded so far. We are very, very humbled by the response we’ve gotten and would like to thank our fans and assure everyone that we will do our best to make UD3D into a kick ass movie (not like most 3D movies) and to take it somewhere interesting and new.
Thanks for watching!
Vernon….
Thank you very much for the interview Vernon! Now if anyone else wants to hunt down those juicy webisodes, feel free to look at THIS. There you can get a little history and view the original Webisodes. Trust me, it will be well received. Also, don’t forget to keep an eye out for this film in 2011. Universal Dead in 3-D off all things. I know I can’t wait!
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
The Root Du Jour
OK, so I was very brave the other day. I tried a meal that was so strange, I couldn’t belive my taste buds. Before I tell you the details of how to make it, I’ll tell you how the idea sparked.
So the other day I was talking to one of my partners in internet social corruption, The Primal Root. He was telling me about his plans for the night, when he mentioned he was going to have his favorite hamburger treat. It was a Hamburger topped with banana, pineapple, and peanut butter! I was just dumb founded. How do you figure out these things go well on a hamburger? It was then I made the solemn promise to try this for myself. After all, I pride myself on the unusual tastes that I myself posses (Oriental Meatloaf anyone…?) I even said I would make it a custom meal devoted to tastes inspired by him. I added to this meal a drink Root introduced to me a couple of years back, called the Stiff Root. What was the verdict?
Absolutely delicious! The Flavors in this meal were off the chart! The hamburger had such a different, but very cool taste to it. The peanut butter, pineapple, and banana’s complement each other so well…it was divine. Couple that with a nice glass of Stiff Root and a side of Nathans fries…it was just awesome. Want to make one of your own?
It’s important to know I will never give you exact measurements on spices. I myself do not know how much i put in. I just season to taste.
This is a truly EPIC meal...
The Root Du Jour
1) Mix 1bs hamburger meat with one egg, onion powder, garlic powder and pepper in a bowl. Roll into balls and then make into patties. It will yield 4 medium-sized patties. Cook them on a skillet on high heat to preference.
2) Spread peanut butter on both sides of the bun.
3) Cut banana into slices. Place on the peanut butter.
4) Spread pineapple on top. I used Crushed, but really it doesn’t matter.
5) Serve with Nathans fries and a Stiff Root
Stiff Root is Half and Half Jagermeister and Root Beer Schnapps. Serve in a glass for full effect.
If your brave enough to try it, I promise a good meal…and a pretty good buzz too!
Sadistically Yours,
Malice Psychotik
Allow Me to Introduce Dave Madison…
The other day, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dave Madison. Dave is the Director of an up coming independent film, Mr. Hush. He is also the promoter for Mr. Hush Weekend of Fear. I have to say, I’m very impressed with this movie and the convention. The movie looks fantastic, and the convention line-up is pretty tight. They even have the privilege of being Steve Dash’s last show. It was great being able to chat with Dave, he’s such a down to earth guy and real genre fan at heart. I truly feel that it’s people like him, that will lead the horror genre in the direction it needs to go. So without wasting another key stroke, done in the name of From Dusk till Con, and interviewed by yours truly…
Allow Me to Introduce, Dave Madison…
That's Dave in the Middle...
Malice Psychotik: So we will get to the movie and the convention in a moment, but first I would like to ask some question about you if you don’t mind. I think it would be pretty fair to say that you are a fan of horror film. Why Horror? What got you into the genre?
Dave Madison: As a product of the 80’s, I was exposed to some of the finest horror films ever made. In addition, my older brother, Bob, who was like a father-figure to me, adored the classic Universal films. Every Halloween, these films would be shown on the local PBS station; it is one of my fondest childhood memories.
Malice: What are some of your favorite Horror films?
Dave: I have a real passion for the Universal classic films such as Karloff’s Frankenstein, Lugosi’s Dracula and Chaney’s Wolfman. Fright Night is one of the finest horror films ever made with just the right amount of scares and wit. Halloween is driven by the great performances of Donald Pleasance and Jamie Lee Curtis. The Lost Boys was a great popcorn, summer vampire film that was beautifully shot. Near Dark made smarmy cool and American Werewolf in London was terrifying as our hero never really had a chance to win. Other great horror films, in no particular order, are Frank Langella’s Dracula, Evil Dead, the original King Kong, and Needful Things.
Malice: Is there anyone in the genre that you look up to specifically?
Dave: No, oddly enough, I think Frank Capra was the finest film maker that ever lived. I would have loved to have worked with the late Roddy McDowall, Donald Pleasance or Vincent Price.
Malice: Let’s move to Mr. Hush. I’ve seen the trailer, and I have to say I’m impressed! It looks really good, and I can’t wait to see it. What was your inspiration for the film?
Dave: Mr Hush is the perfect storm of films that have inspired me over the course of my life. I like to think it is smart and witty like Fright Night, well acted like Langella’s Dracula, and paced like a great Carpenter film.
Malice: What has been your favorite part of the film making process?
Dave: The writing. It is really rewarding to see your characters come to life by extremely talented actors and actresses.
Malice: You have a pretty tight cast going on with this film. What helped you pick some of them?
Dave: After knowing most of these people for a while, this particular script was written to the strengths of these fine actors. Stark, for example, brings Stephen Geoffreys back to what he is beloved for by genre fans, classic horror with a touch of dark humor.
Stephen Geoffreys in a scene from Mr. Hush
Malice: Any on-set stories you can share with us?
Dave: Sets are kind of like Vegas, what happens there stays there!
Malice: What advice do you have for anyone trying to get into the business of film? Anything you have learned?
Dave: Keep working at it and if you have talent, it will eventually come to you. And the most important thing you can ever learn is never take yourself too seriously.
Malice: I would also like to discuss your convention. What got the idea started for the convention?
Dave: The genesis of the convention came when I was pondering how to introduce the next cultural horror icon to as many people as possible. The Weekend of Fear is really just a celebration of our beloved genre where new film makers, veteran film makers, actors, actresses and fans can convene for a weekend of fun. What is most important to me is that we stay true to our genre.
Malice: Do you attend other conventions? If so, do you have any favorites?
Dave: I have attended a handful and all have been fun.
Malice: Is there any special events that you think will stand out at your show? Anything you think fans are not going to want to miss?
Dave: So much fun, so little time. Here are a few not to be missed: Friday night’s Masquerade Ball – if you have not partied with Brad Loree (Michael Myers in Halloween: Resurrection), you haven’t lived! Steve Dash (Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th Part 2) will be making his last convention appearance- if you have not had a chance to meet this horror icon, he is truly a fan favorite. Stephen Geoffreys and Tiffany Shepis discussing Corey Haim’s last horror genre film, New Terminal Hotel, should be very interesting. And of course, the world premier of Mr Hush. Plus there will be more surprises.
Malice: Your guest list looks great! Will you be adding anymore to the list? Any hints?
Dave: There are more to come and they are all from the horror genre. wink wink
Malice: This being the first show, where do you see the show going? Do you have any goals for the show to grow?
Dave: I hope that every autumn, people converge on northeastern PA to celebrate the greatest genre in film today. But truly the most important thing is that everyone has fun!
Malice: Alright, before we wrap this up, it’s become a trademark of mine to ask a round of completely random questions. Would you be interested in participating in the madness?
Dave: Sure
Malice: If you could be any infectious disease, which would you be?
Dave: mono
Malice: Who do you think would win between Lestat (from Queen of the Damned) and David (from The Lost Boys)
Dave: Lestat was a buttercup so it would be David, hands down. But David would fall quickly to the mighty Evil Ed.
Malice: How much wood could a wood chuck chuck, if a wood chuck could dual wield chainsaws?
Dave: 2 cords
Malice: Have you ever had something so good, it made you want to smack a man named “Rufus”
Dave: Sal’s chicken parm
Malice: Well, I want to thank you for doing this interview. You have been awesome and it was a pleasure having you. I really look forward to see Mr. Hush when it’s ready. Is there anything you would like to add?
Dave: Thanks for the time. It was great. I hope everyone loves Mr Hush. We made a film that is very different from the types of horror films Hollywood pumps out today. We’re not in 3D, and we’re smart with a touch of dark humor. It is exactly the direction the genre should be going in. And I can’t wait to see everyone at the Weekend of Fear- we will have a blast.
Well that wraps up the interview with Mr. Madison. I look forward to seeing Mr. Hush. I just can’t wait to hear more news. If anyone else would like to keep up with the movie or the convention, you can catch the news on the website at MrHush.net.
Sadistically Yours,
Malice Psychotik
A Moment to Ponder…
To know me, you would know I come up with some rather interesting thoughts. I figured, why not take the time and share those ideas. So, the other day I sat down and wrote some of the first things that came to mind. Just some random ideas that I figured I could explore here for you all to see. This is what I came up with:
1) What if Japanese Anime was real life?
Could you imagine? Think of all the endless possibilities. Now the reason I didn’t isolate it to one anime for a reason. Just in general. Japanese Anime brings to life some of the most creative, impossible ideas I have ever seen. Wether it is a teenage girl being transported to feudal Japan via a well (Inuyasha), or an alternate universe where Alchemy triumphed over Physics (Full Metal Alchemist) . It would all make life very interesting. Even worlds like Poke’mon or Yu-Gi-Oh! would have potential to spice up life a little. Come on a world where all of life’s battles are solved with a dual between super powered monsters, or a card game? Much better than what we have right now, that’s for sure. For the sake of discussion though, why not limit it down to three worlds I think would be fun. I say I have to go with Naruto, Bleach, or Full Metal Alchemist. Why those? Simple really! Ninjas are freakin’ awesome! Watch or Read Naruto and that will paint a much bigger picture for you. Bleach? Well I’m already a believer as far as the paranormal is concerned. Taking that idea, and coming up with a secret group of “Soul Reapers” to hunt down the good and help them pass, and vanquish the evil…..well intrigues me. It’s like they are souped up Ghost Busters.Only instead of a proton pack, they use their very own spiritual energy. Finally, we come to Full Metal Alchemist. This story is a lot like us anyway. Hell, the whole world is supposed to be a parallel universe to our own. The difference, Alchemy advanced further than Physics. Same world, funn-er science. Works for me!!
2) What if I came to work dressed as The Joker?
I’m interested to know. Honestly, I expect a lot of strange looks from old people. But would it make people nervous. What about the really rude people? If you got all “Joker” on them, would they really keep running their mouth?. I could see it now, “Listen buddy! I want you to get your ass back behind the counter and shut your fuckin’ mouth!” “How about a magic trick instead? I’m going to make this pencil….disappear…” Even something as simple as them starting to cuss you out, and just giving the those familiar looks would be a gas for me! I’m sure in a day you would have some people questioning your mental sanity, but on the complete positive side, you may have one of the least stressful days of your life. “You idiots never get anything right! I don’t know why I come back here, because you are all a bunch of Fuck Ups!!” “You wanna know how I got these scars?”
3) How great would it be to put an angry badger in the back seat of someone’s car?
I’ve heard of people putting anything from snakes to spiders in someone’s car. However, I have never heard of someone putting an angry badger in someone’s car! I for one am for this! I could just imagine someone getting off of work. It’s been a hard day, they’re tired. They get into the car, lock the door, and start the car. Then they hear it, the low pitch growl of pissed off badger that has been in the car for at least on hour. They turn to grab the door, then it’s to late, the badger unleashes hell. This is the kind of situation that you wait around the corner with a video camera, because this HAS to go on YouTube. I see it going viral within an hour. The real question is, who gets this done to them. It has to be someone that has REALLY pissed you off. I don’t really think the badger would kill them (Then again I don’t know much about badgers other than they are cool and real easy to piss off) Still, the thought alone makes me laugh. “Whats that sound…? OH GOD IT’S A FUCKING BADGER!! GET IT OFF ME!! GET IT OFF! WHY GOD!? WHY!!!!?”
4) Has anybody’s life been saved by House?
Some might say this is a ridiculous thing to think about, but I beg to differ. That show deals with so many long shot cases and exotic disease it’s hard to belive how it couldn’t. Now I know Hugh Laurie hasn’t personally saved anyone like that, but surely there are real doctors out there that watch the show. I just wonder if there ever has been a person that went to the E.R with on of these of the wall illnesses, and because of the show, it was recognized. For example, Johnny Trainwreck over here goes to the E.R and they can’t figure out whats wrong with him. He’s been in for 2 days, and he’s declining. This guy is dying fast. Then a doctor (Let’s call him Dr. Television) goes, “Oh my God! I just figured it out! He has the same symptoms as such and such, so on and so forth, from House the other day!”
5) Why are there no Pocky vendors at horror conventions?
You know I think this is the one thing missing that could quite possibly set the difference between an awesome convention and a truely epic convention. If you’ve never had Pocky, you haven’t lived! It’s the greatest treat ever invented. Almost like the recipe was created by God him/herself and delivered to this life to give all a true taste of heaven. Maybe I’m over exaggerating a bit, but they are really good. And there are literally hundred of different types. All kinds of flavors and styles. The only thing that could top it would be having Ramune with it! And before you all start saying, “But Malice, those belong at anime conventions!?” Well I say fuck you in your conservative, right-wing ass! I want my Pocky and Ramune! Something that delicious should not be limited to just anime conventions. I mean, are you really going to let the anime conventions have ALL the fun!
Well that’s all I really have to ponder about for now. Not really sure what you should be taking from all of this, but then again you don’t either so I suppose we are even.
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Psychotik Playlist of the Week 08/08/2010
So another week has gone by, and here it is, The Psychotik Playlist of the Week! So this week I thought maybe I would give everyone a taste of country. OK so the radio has been on a country channel at work and that’s all I had in my head. doesn’t hurt to add a little diversity to the mix. I’m sure you will all love it. Give a listen, and I hope your Monday goes well because of it….
So I realize that this isn’t the full song to Free Bird. But the song is sooooo long, and this is the PERFECT use I’ve ever seen for this song.
sadistically Yours,
Malice Psychotik
Seras “Super Spider Slayer” Psychotik
I owe this to my woman. Some may not know this, but I’m a severe arachnophobia. I can’t handle the things! Just something about them, I don’t know. I thought long and hard about posting this story. However, I decided that I’m OK with admitting my phobia, and I’m OK with admitting what an awesome wife I have!
So this is what happened. We were heading out to run some errands yesterday. Seras and the baby head down stairs first oblivious to the thing that lurked less than a foot from where they passed. I came down after them and what did I see down that stairwell? A huge wolf spider hiding in the corner. It froze me! I couldn’t move any further! So I called to Seras down stairs. She put the baby in the car, then came to talk me down. This is the first time a reaction this strong has ever happened. I came down the stairs, slowly as not to get it to do that sick scudding thing they do. Every step I took though, I came closer to a full on panic attack! I might also want to mention she told me there was another spider around the corner on the wall. This is the one she thought I saw. Boy was she shocked to see the over sized eight legged demon in the corner. She told me about the little one, but I don’t think it registered she meant the same type. So I stuck to the wall and made it down the stairs. She grabbed my arm, and I went to round the corner, only to face down another one legs spread wide. I think it was instinct that took over. I grabbed hold of her arm and ran down the stairs with her attached. I know how terrified I am of them, and I’m not about to leave anyone while I run away. That being said, it took the next half hour for me to calm down from the attack. During this time, Seras told me she had no problem killing them. She wasn’t about to let them terrify me, and she didn’t want to risk one of them getting ahold of the baby (No need to have two arachnophobics running around). So we go do our thing, get our groceries, and a very large can of Black Flag. The next part of the story is the epic battle of how Seras has earned her title.
When we get back, Seras says she is going to go up stairs and scope it out. She takes her trusty can of spider death and enters the arena. The big one, we will call this one The Boss, was near the arch of the stairwell out of reach. His lack was busy guarding the steps on the second set of stairs. Seras quickly drew her weapon and fired! She hit it so hard there was puddles of the stuff on the steps!! Next came the Boss Battle. She went up to the apartment to get a broom. The plan was to coax it down the wall, so she get blast it. The Boss wasn’t going down without a fight. She threw the broom at it a couple of times, and all it did was run in circles. I by this time, was brave enough to help get the broom back up to her. The last time she tossed the broom, it hit next to it. Well at the same rate the broom fell, it ran down the wall. Right as I went to pick up the broom, Seras yelled, “Baby, Run!!” As I looked up, it rounded the corner and I had a Close Encounter of the Eight-Legged Kind! I swear I could count the eyes. What did I do? Well I did what she asked, I ran! Not wanting to be ambushed she asked me if it was still on the wall outside. I looked and saw nothing. The only thing I could guess is it ran into the mail drop (Boy would the mail man have had a surprise). With the coast clear, she proceeded down the steps. It was an ambush! The Boss ran at her to make one last stand! She drew her weapon and fired! He kept coming!! Around this time, the neighbor came from his apartment to see what was wrong. He ran up the stairs and offered the assist. The Boss was defeated. All was well in the world. We brought everything upstairs, and calmed down.
What did I learn from this experience? Two things: 1) Seras is the best wife an arachnophobic could ask for 2) The reason giant-ass spiders exist, is to remind even the biggest, toughest, strongest manly man out there, at heart, your still a prepubescent 13-year-old girl!
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Psychotik Playlist of the Week 8/3/2010
Alright it’s late I know! But this one is going to be a gut buster. This weeks playlist is not so much music as it is just some really funny crap! Everyone needs to laugh. It’s the healthiest medicine in the world. So sit back, relax, and let the doctor give you the medicine….
Hope you all have managed to catch your breath through all of that! Enjoy the funny!!
Until next time, my freaky darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Dusker of the Month for August: The Primal Root
It’s that time again! Time for the Dusker of the Month for August! This month is none other than………THE PRIMAL ROOT!! In getting named Dusker of the Month for August, our very own Primal Root was subjected to an interrogation by yours truly (Exactly what kind of honor is this?). Seriously though, Root was an awesome interview. I had a lot of fun doing this. Thank you Root for letting everyone else get to know you a little better. (As if seeing your testicles wasn’t close enough!) So without a second more delay I present you with…
Root of the Damned: The Primal Root
Meet The Primal Root...
Malice: We have our Dusker of the Month here, The Primal Root! You are such a colorful character, I’m not sure where to start! So, what do you say we start with astrophysics?
Root: I think that’s a phenomenal place to start, Malice. My current research into quantum mechanics has led me to the startling conclusion that-
Malice: HaHa! I was joking with the first question! (However I see this as a viable conversation for later) Anyway, How goes things? How does it feel being Dusker of the month?
Root: Things are going well. I’ve been keeping tremendously busy and so far things are going just peachy. There have been no fatalities. It is both an honor and a privilege to be chosen to represent From Dusk Till Con as the Dusker of the Month for August 2010.
Malice: Now I know you are a lover of film and music. What films have you seen lately? Any music out there that catches your attention?
Root: I try to squeeze in as many movies as I possibly can in my spare time looking for really good trashy films as well as seeing whatever’s playing at the theater. And though I recently saw Inception, and enjoyed it, the one film I can’t stop talking about is Black Dynamite. I saw it for the first time a few days ago and it’s just drop dead hilarious. I’ve always been a big fan of the blaxploitation genre of the mid-late 70’s and Black Dynamite is a fantastic send up of the form and a loving tribute. It’s a must see.
My musical tastes are all over the map, but there are two bands I’ve really been listening to a lot lately. Them Crooked Vultures, who have a dirty, gritty sound to them I really like. Very I-Don’t-Give a-Shit and overtly sexual. It’s mojo music. I also recently got into The Drive-By Truckers. They’re an alternative southern rock band from Atlanta Georgia and their stuff is just excellent. Again, gritty, dirty music about the underbelly of America’s heartland and the plight of the blue-collar working class. It’s music that reminds me of where I’m from and I’ve always been a fan of musicians who can tell a good story.
Malice: Now most everyone has heard of your baby (Trash Cinema Collective) How did this labor of love start?
Root: Oh man, the Trash Cinema Collective was something I’d had in my head for a while and it sparked to life over a conversation I was having with a friend of mine back in 2009. We had recently watched Troll 2 and Samurai Cop, and she mentioned to me how much fun she had watching, laughing and cracking jokes over these movies and how we should make it a monthly event. I coined the name for our group (The Trash Cinema Collective) and the idea just took off from there.
I wanted to create a website that would feature reviews, videos and articles about any and all things related to Trash Cinema. A group of people who appreciate and understand why it’s so much fun to hang out in a group, tip back a few cold ones and have some good-natured fun at the expense of some trashy movies.
Malice: Is there any of your Reviews that stand out against the rest? Any favorites?
Root: Wow, that’s a difficult question. Jeez… um…. I suppose it’s like having to pick your favorite child. I love all of them for various different reasons. The Queen of the Damned Rotten Review is one Jessica and I hold close to our hearts because we bonded over that movie when we started dating. All those jokes are ones we came up with together while watching the movie.
What looks to be the fan favorite is, the A Nightmare on Elm Street part 2 review I did back before the release of the remake. Something about that episode has really stuck with people. It could be the quality of the jokes, the visual gags, the skits, my balls being visible in a shot, really it’s anyone’s guess why that one has been so successful.
My two personal favorite is either Scanners 3: The Takeover or Blood Freak. Both films are just so unbelievably ridiculous that they just lend themselves perfectly to the Rotten Reviews. Also, both episodes are very skit heavy which help to keep me from getting bored with the project. Exploding my own head in a Scanner battle and groping The Topless Turkey Monster have been the high points of my career.
Malice: Where do you want to see TCC in the future? Any Goals?
Root: I would love to see the TCC reach and even wider audience and earn some more fans. I’d like for the collective to keep growing and gain more contributors to the site and it would be great to one day get a sponsor. I don’t want to blue sky too much and give the wrong impression because I love what I do and I am very happy to simply make people laugh. And hopefully turn them on to some stranger, trashier, forgotten cinema.
Ah, the zen of Root...
Malice: Do you play any video games? If so what are some of your favorites?
Root: I am the lamest gamer you’ll ever meet. I won a Wii and a Game Cube and I play old arcade games and NES games on both almost exclusively. I’ve recently been playing the hell out of Super Castlevania IV and Super Metroid. My favorite video game of all time is Ms. Pac-Man.
Malice: Hey now, the classics are just that. No Shame here. Now I know you have a soft spot for zombie movies. What is the epitome of a zombie film for you?
Root: I can enjoy a zombie movie on two different levels. I love the old school Romero style like night of the Living Dead where the rules are set in stone and there’s a great amount of social commentary to go along with all the shambling and flesh-eating. But I also love stuff like Return of the Living Dead and Zombieland, living dead films that don’t take themselves so damn seriously. Not that both those films don’t have anything to say about the time in which they were made…but that’s a whole other question.
The epitome of a zombie film for me? It’s gotta have brains.
He bites.....literally!
Malice: Now if you don’t mind I would like to shift gears. I would like to ask you some random, off the wall questions. Is that cool?
Root: Absolutely, babe.
Malice: Here goes, What are your feelings on genetically engineered super ninja cats?
Root: I’ve never seen one. But I guess that’s the point.
Malice: If you got to pick who killed you out of this list of people, who would it be? Why?
A) Jason Voorhees B) Freddy Krueger C) Jack the Ripper D) Marv Albert
Root: A) Jason Voorhees. Without a moment’s hesitation I will always pick Jason as my killer. not only is he an artist of brutality he’s also the ultimate nerd villain. He’s the advocate for the outcast, the ones who feel they don’t fit in. There’s no nightmares, no morality fueled death traps, no Jason is just going to kill you because he’s pissed off, angry, unloved and alone. Jason can crush my skull between his bare hands, put a machete through my face or swing me against a tree any day.
Malice: If your Uncle Jack was on an elephant,………would you shoot him in the face?
Root: Without a moment’s hesitation.
Malice: Assassin Space Chimps take over the world! What do you do?
Root: Prepare Banana Pudding and use it as a peace-offering. I’m sure they could use a PR guy.
Malice: BUT! You have a really bad case of jock itch?
Root: Oh, well in that case, I would just add some Nilla Waffers.
Malice: Who would win in this fight, Chev Chellios VS. King Leonidas?
Root: Chev.
Malice: Bill Compton or Eric Northman?
Root: I’m Team Sam.
Malice: Alright, that was fun! Well we are just about done with your interview. Is there any stories you want to share? Anything that would give us insight into your very soul?
Root: I will leave you with a proverb that has served me well over the years…
One Goat in your Hand
Is Better than Ten Goats on your Roof.
Malice: Before you go, where’s your number one stop for madness on the web?
Root: Encyclopedia Psychotika, baby!
Rock on Root
Thanks goes to The Primal Root! Thank you for a great interview. It was a pleasure having you. Remember people, the next time you are feeling a little trashy on the web, head on over to Trash Cinema Collective and get your fix!
Until next time my freaky darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Discovery Channel’s: The Colony
I’m generally the first one to say reality shows like Survivor suck. There are only so many times you can see people get betrayed, people breaking down from the stress, etc… etc… ad nauseum….before you want to take the producers of this show out back, and beat them! However, when I first got a load of the trailer for this one, I was pretty impressed. The Colony is a new take on the Survivor type reality show. Instead of “Can you survive this random wilderness” it’s more like “Can you survive a world fallen apart from a super contagium that is killing EVERYTHING!”
It was like love at first fright! Finally, someone comes up with a realistic show about survival. What if your world was turned upside down by a super virus that is killing everything (and everybody) you love, would you survive it? So far looking at the available videos, they make this very realistic. From scrounging for supplies, to setting up camp, and even coming across a group of hostiles! I can’t wait to get into this series more. I’ll be sure to check more out and report back later. For now, I leave you with a link and urge you to check this out. The only thing I would improve so far, is the addition of zombies (Then again they don’t call me Psychotik for nothing!) There are 6 episodes on the web page. The show first aired last Tuesday, and looks like it will continue Tuesdays at 10pm.
Sadistically Yours,
Malice Psychotik
Mark Ruffalo to be The Hulk
Well it’s official, as of San Diego Comic-Con, Mark Ruffalo is going to step into the role of Bruce Banner in 2012’s The Avengers. The announcement was made public at a group panel involving the full cast. They even announced Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye. You can look here for an article from the N.Y. Daily News. What are my thoughts on the matter?
Well I’m really sad to see that it didn’t work out for Edward Norton. He played an awesome Bruce (Much better than Eric Bana). It was awesome how much of a throw back he gave to Bill Bixby. What can you do though? Regardless of whether it was money or because Marvel just honestly didn’t think he was an ensemble player, it’s just a damn shame to see the role changing hands again! That being said, I’m curious of What Ruffalo is going to bring to the table. I can’t say that I have seen a role of his that I didn’t like. I guess he is just one of those actors. Maybe that will help him stick! Only time will really tell. He has some big shoes to fill, that’s for sure. Norton was just perfect for the role. The only other actor out of The Avengers line up I have felt was that perfect is Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark. The only thing i can add right now, is I don’t see Bruce Banner when I looks at him. (But then again I didn’t see The Joker when I looked at Heath Ledger either) On the positive side, sometimes it doesn’t matter how much you look like the character as long as you can sell it through acting. Mark is a great actor, so I feel he can pull this off. It looks to be clear, so far, that he will do everything in his power to make an awesome follow-up to Nortons Hulk. He has released in statements that he really didn’t like the terms he got the role. Going on then, to compare the situation to a modern-day Hamlet. Personally I’m going to go ahead and reserve judgment for a little later.
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Fox is Here! An Interview with Rob Fox
This past week I had the privilege to interview a good friend of mine. He is also author of Z-Day is Here, the short story Recess, and soon to be Z-Day is Here: One Year Later, none other than Rob Fox! I can’t tell you what an honor it was, and how glad I am that he took the time to do this interview. I really think you are all in for a treat here. So, as they say in Celebrity Death Match, “Let’s get it on!”
Isn't he Glorious....
Malice Psychotik: So Rob, you started your first book as a blog back in 07′. Did you ever think it was going to become a book?
Rob Fox: Not only did I have no idea it would one day make it to book format, but it wasn’t even going to make it past 5 days. I did it for a school project and only had to show five days worth of blog. Somewhere around day 3, I was getting emails from people telling me they really liked it and wanted to read more. There were many times I had thought about just stopping – when I would have a really crappy day or when I ran out of ideas, but I felt like I couldn’t let the fans down. I really think when you read the book, there is a definite moment where the story structure and plot really start coming together, and that moment is when I decided to get it published when I finished it.
Malice: What inspired you to start Z-Day?
Fox: Well, other than wanting a good grade, I just honestly didn’t want to write another boring celebrity blog or a “Hi, my name is Rob” type blog. I wanted something different. I believe I had watched a zombie movie the night before or had a zombie dream the night before. Whatever the case may be, I had zombies on the brain.
Malice: One of the things I think makes your work stand out so much is your use of real life people for the basis of your characters. What made you decide to do this?
Fox: I started out doing it because I saw the main character as being me and what would really happen to me on those first days. Then I realized I probably wouldn’t have made it past the first day, so I decided to bring my friends into it. More as my special “Thank You” to them for being a friend. Later on in the book and in other projects, it helps me in giving my characters a real personality.
Malice: Now I know Z-Day 2 has been in the works for some time now. How is it coming along?
Fox: Ahh the dreaded “Z Day 2” question! I started Z Day 2, which will actually be called “Z Day is Here: One Year Later”, shortly after the first book was released. I wrote about 3/4 of the story then was asked to assist in writing a screenplay. I put Z Day 2 on the back burner to work on the screenplay, which took almost 6 months to complete. Once that screenplay was written and turned in, I had an idea for another screenplay that I wanted to get written. I finished that one in about 2 months. While I was doing some re-writes on the second screenplay, I went back and started reading Z Day 2. I was not pleased with where it was going, so I trashed everything I had written and started over. I am currently about 1/4 through rewriting the story, but I am much happier with this one and I believe whoever reads tis one will be happy I started over too. My goal is to have the second book finished by the end of the year. Ultimately I would love to see it out by October, but I think that is a little ambitious.
Malice: Since you’ve started down this road of being a writer, you’ve done a few con appearances. Which one has been your favorite?
Rob: Wow, that’s a hard question. I have had a complete blast at every single con I have attended, but I would have to say that “Spooky Empire” tops my list. I was a member of the forum when all this writing stuff began and I owe my success to everyone on that board, so when I was able to be a guest there, it was like being at home with all my friends. That convention will always have a special place in my heart
Malice: Of all the stories you have written thus far (Short or book) do you have any favorites?
Fox: As much as I LOVE “Z Day is Here”, and I do love that story, I would have to say that my all time favorite story I have written is called “Recess”. It is published in the anthology “Dead Set: A Zombie Anthology”. I wrote the story based off of a painting about a group of kids fighting off a playground full of zombie children. The painting is one of my favorites and being able to bring those pictures to life and using kids that I know in the story really helps make it my favorite.
Malice: Now, you mentioned that you were working on screenplays, have any of them been filmed yet?
Fox: I have two being filmed right now. One is “A.C.E. The Zombie” and the other is “American Undead”. I have a third screenplay that I am trying to sell now..and working on a secret script that I can’t talk about yet…but its gonna be HUGE.
Malice: Wow, I can’t wait you are going to have to tell me when you are allowed details. Now that we have talked about the writing, let’s talk about the man! Who is Rob Fox?
Fox: Hmmm, Rob Fox is a big geek. Anyone who really knows me knows how much I love Sci-fi, horror, and comic books. To me, Superman is hands down the best Super Hero. Also, I am a writer that doesn’t read. I mean I know how to read, I just can’t concentrate enough to read a full novel.
Malice: Well it has become obvious that you like horror movies! What are some of your favorites? Any recent movies tickle your fancy?
Fox: Well, my all time favorite is the 2004 Dawn of the Dead remake. I own the movie on Blue-ray and have worn it out. I am also a huge 80’s slasher fan. Freddy, Jason, Mike, and Leatherface were my friends growing up, so I still love them.
Malice: What about the music scene, anybody out there dazzle you? What are you into?
Fox: I love all types of music. On my MP3 player, you will find anything from Slipknot to Kenny Chesney and some Eminem throw in for good measure, though my favorites are Rob Zombie and Linkin Park. I find myself listening to them both while writing.
Malice: Now I have seen your personal pages, (and heard many a story from you as well) you have met a fair share of celebrities. Which one has been your favorite?
Fox: Meeting Rob Zombie was a dream come true for me, but all I could mutter was “You Rock, Rob”, but of all I have met, I would say Betsy Palmer. My wife, Darcy, and I met her outside of the Spooky Empire convention, after the zombie walk. We were covered in face blood and had contacts in. She gave us a big hug and talked with us the entire way to her room. Later, we went to see her at her table. She was extremely nice to us and very much down to Earth
Malice: Anybody who has met you knows you KNOW how to party! Do you have any real epic memories you would like to share?
Fox back at Screamfest 07'
Fox: I once passed out on a National Monument and got banned from the country I was in…that’s about all I can say about that!
Malice: Would you mind if I asked you some random nonsense?
Fox: Yes, I mind! What kind of a person do you think I am?! But go ahead!
Malice: Here we go! What is your opinion on Furries?
Fox: Opinion as in would I? Have I? Or should I? Yes, Yes, and Yes. I have thought about writing a story about furries…and if you read really carefully you will find a reference to a Furry in Z Day!
Malice: If you were forced with a decision; Eat 3 KFC Double Downs in one sitting OR Punch a midget named “Holis” in the face which would you do? Why?
Fox: Funny story behind that…I went to KFC to get a Double Down. I have been trying to watch my awesome figure, but I decided that I would throw caution to the wind, so I pull into KFC very excited, and realized they were closed!!! I was so pissed that I went and punched a midget hooker named “El Tomeka”. So, I guess I would rather eat KFC Double Downs….since I still have not had one
Malice: Jason Stackhouse or Lafayette Renyolds?
Fox: Wait, to do? Or which one am I more like? I am so confused.
Malice: Do you think we should raise awareness to Midget Biker Gangs that plague the south-east U.S.?
Fox: I think raising awareness to midgets in general is probably a good idea. Now please don’t think that I dislike midgets, because that couldn’t be further from the truth. But I also think that raising awareness to the biker midgets is especially important, I mean what is scarier than a group of midgets on their little mini-bikes riding around your car?? And don’t even get me started on walking into Midget biker bars. I have heard stories about people walking into those bars and limping out, with huge bruises on their shins.
Malice: Would you Describe yourself as a leopard, a wolf, a mongoose, or a llama?
Fox: I would call myself a lleapolfgoose. I am a great mix of them all.
Malice: Well that’s enough crazy!! Rob, I just want to tell you what a pleasure it was doing this interview. Is there anything you would like to add?
Fox: Just like to say that if you have not read it yet, check out “Z Day is Here”, you can get it on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com , and other book stores. Also, thanks for chatting it up with me. It is always a pleasure.
Malice: One last thing, Where’s you number one stop for madness on the web?
Fox: WOW, that’s a tough one. It is a toss-up between http://www.nabainc.org and Encyclopedia Psychotika
Well that’s a wrap folks! Remember to check for your copy of Z-day is here at Amazon.com and at Barnes and Nobel.com
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Psychotik Playlist of the Week 7/25/2010!
Alright. I’m a little early this week. (Guess that makes up for late last week!) This week I think I will theme it after anime! Enjoy!
1) Orange Range- “Asterisk”
2) UVERworld- D-Techno life
3) Logos Naki World
4) Mr. Big- Shine
5) Nightmare- The World
6) Nightmare- Alumina
7) One Winged Angel
8) Ready, Steady, Go!
9) Rewrite
10) Lost Heaven
(If I manage to turn even one person on to one of these songs, I will feel accomplished!)
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
I know there are posters with the main three....again outside the norm...
I have stewed over whether or not to review this movie for about a month now. I know how its a sensitive subject among die-nard horror fans. You know what though? I have never been one to follow “social norms,” so why start now? Usually, I consider the Twilight Saga a “guilty pleasure,” but this third installment really impressed me. This movie really stands out against the rest. I believe the biggest reason for this, is because there is a lot more action! Way more than in the others, thats for sure.
Eclipse opens in a way that was very out of the norm for these movies. It started like a freakin’ horror movie to be honest! Within the first five minuets you have a kid stalked, chased, and bit. This really starts to set the tone for the movie. Of course then it moves into the basic story line of the series. Bella is in love with Edward, but Jacob wants her too….I could go on but if you’re a fan you know it and if you aren’t you aren’t interested! Moving on! The main plot in the movie (not the book…the MOVIE) is a woman scorned vampire Victoria is creating a vampire army to kill the Cullens. Really all she even wants is Bella. Apparently she’s still a little tweaked because Edward killed her main squeeze to save his. I mean all her James did was try to kill Bella for no other reason than because he was bored! (I mean thats normal right? Whats Edwards problem? Pssht!) The MOVIE (see there I did it again) really doesn’t dwell on the love story, and I don’t really feel it needed to. There are only so many ways you can show that Edward loves Bella and she loves him back. But the little doggy (Jacob) wants some but can’t. This really is left more as a sub-plot. There are some funny scenes of the two (Edward and Jacob) butting heads, but really that’s about all I want to touch on that. Let us just dive into the positive parts shall we…..Some how I feel I’m loosing your attention!
Where do I start with the action? Well, it is worth mentioning that there is a mass feeding scene with all of the new vampires. You really get kind of surprised by it, as your really not expecting it! It’s kind of like “Oh laddeedadeeda….” “I SAID BE LESS DISCRETE!! (kicks a new-born) ((Cue another new-born smashing in one’s head to take his human)) There is even a dark back story to Jasper. A back story filled with him turning children to vampires, letting them live for a year, then breaking their necks! I scared everyone in the theater because I laughed! (Then again you are talking about the same person that goes into a giggle fit when he sees Anakin with the Younglings….”Master Skywalkers here! We’re saved!” snicker…chuckle). Hell, you even get to see more of Dakota Fannings dark side….she torchers a little girl and then has her killed (and you people called this a tween movie!?) This of course is just icing until you get to the big fight scene. In this scene you get to see the New Borns vs. The Cullens/ Wolves slug it out in a battle to save all humanity! (Ok not really just Bella and the rest of Forks…..but I digress…) I really didn’t think they were going to deliver as well. I mean what does a sparkly vampire do when you kill it……Apparently it smashes like the disco ball they look like! Yes you heard right they smash like a mirror! This effect looks cool as all get out, I really couldn’t get enough of it! Surprisingly, this scene got it’s point across without a drop of blood. In some cases it even made it worst then if it had all the gore!
I would like to also touch on the visual effects. This movie really delivers in the effect department. The vampires actually look really cool. The new-borns really sell as a pack of ravenous, blood thirsty, killing machines! To top that off the giant wolves just look….well cool. The graphics aren’t bad (Blurred running, wire work, CGI, vampires shattering….). Way better than the previous two. The scenery is pretty note worthy as well. (I’m a sucker for location). So where did I think the movie fell short? (I know you two in the back were waiting for it, I knew it!)
OK the scene this comes from just had me thinking Land of the Dead....
I think there could have been a tad more blood. I do know that they have to keep the PG-13 rating, but that is going to go right out the window in the next one anyway. Put your big boy pants on, and show me some blood. Your getting there, but I feel you came just short of the full-monty. Finally, whoever has the shaky hands…..GET THEM OFF THE CAMERA!! It was only in one or two scenes but was really bad, and highly unnecessary….
So what do I give the movie? Well I had some problems with it, so I don’t feel I’ll go all the way. I give it 4 out of 5 Top Hats. If you haven’t seen the movie, I implore you to give it a shot. I really feel you can’t give an honest opinion unless you see it for yourself. So many good movies get grossly over looked for no reason other than “Everybody else” said it wasn’t cool.
Until next time,
Malice Psychotik
The Wolfman
Well it has been a long time coming, but I have finally gotten around to seeing this movie. I have to say that I am very impressed. Out of the original Universal Monsters, The Wolfman is only ever seconded by Dracula. So as you can imagine I had my reservations from the start. I wasn’t really sure if I liked Universal revisioning the old classics. With amount of revisions and remakes out there though, it was only a matter of time before these screen gems were dusted off. It wasn’t until I saw the first bit of advertisement for the movie that my hopes were lifted.
Let me start with the story first. The story fallows Lawrence Talbot (Benicio Del Toro) who ventures back to his home town of Blackmoor to investigate the disappearance of his brother. Upon arriving he finds out that his brother has been killed by what seems to be an animal or a lunatic. Once he sees the state of the body, he is then compelled to stay and investigate what happened to his brother. While investigating at a gypsy camp he comes face to face with his brothers killer. While in a struggle with the beast he is bit, and thus cursed. Now there is also a plot with his father (Anthony Hopkins) and a small side love story with his brothers fiance’ (Emily Blunt), but I really don’t want to give too much away at this part in the review. I really hate spoilers in the middle of a review, so I will reserve any and all comments that spoil the movie at a labeled spot at the bottom. Now on with my thoughts. I really feel that they delivered on the story. They kept enough of it intact that you can still call it The Wolfman, yet added enough to make it stand on its own. The original story I don’t feel would have stood up very well in this day and age. So that added dramatics were really a must to bring people into the story. Again the only problems I had with the story were toward the end, and as promised, I will not discuss them in this portion.
I would also like to touch on the visual dynamics of the film. The director really did a fantastic job visually in this piece. From English country side to the streets of London, each brings its own touch to the movie. Mt favorite of them being the scenes in the forest. That was always a scene that stuck out for me in the original, was the Wolfman stalking around in the foggy forest. They take that visual and tweak it in just the right matter to make those scenes just epic. It also goes without saying that Rick Baker did an awesome job with the make-up effects. I know a lot of people were very disappointed with the use of CGI in the transformations scenes. This is where my opinion differs. I feel that this is the CGI age in movies, I really don’t feel that a practical make up effect could have pulled off what needed to be done in the film. I was just happy enough that the Wolfman wasn’t going to be all CGI, and feel you should just be grateful that they still use a man in make up. I was really starting to get disillusioned with werewolf movies. I mean with all of the CGI werewolves and bad puppets to boot, it’s been a while since I have seen a decent werewolf in a movie. All in all, I feel Rick did a very good job updating the old Wolfman to the 21st century, yet still maintaining some semblance of the old look.
One last thing i would like to touch on before i move to the spoiler section is the acting. The cast really seemed to mesh in this movie wonderfully. Benicio played an awesome Lawrence Talbot. When i saw the first pictures of him in the role, I really didn’t think he was going to do the role justice. Thankfully, I was wrong and he delivered a very strong performance from beginning to end. Anthony Hopkins does as Anthony Hopkins always does. He takes the role of Sir John Talbot and delivers in full. Can you really expect anything else from the man? Also in fine form was my man Hugo Weaving is the role of Inspector Abberline. I am always impressed with Hugo’s work. He can take a character that is really only meant as a supporting part and play it with such greatness. Overall, I don’t think they could have picked a better cast then they did. The movie wouldn’t have been the same with out them.
So what do i rate the movie? I give it 4 out of 5 Top Hats. I highly recommend if you haven’t seen it to watch it. Then when you do, proceed further to my spoiler section. I know some of you are going to do it anyway, and i will now take the time to tell you, you are a naughty little cheater! I bet you read the last two pages of a book don’t you?
**********SPOILER SECTION**********
If you have not watched the movie, I implore you to go do that THEN read further!!
So here is the only problem that I had with the movie. The only problem that i felt it necessary they lose a full hat rating. What was the deal with making the father a werewolf too? Was it really that necessary? I mean I sort of enjoyed, but then I was like “No, they could have done without that.” Don’t get me wrong they couldn’t have picked a better actor to play that part. That role has Hopkins written all over it! Some how I just can’t stop thinking that they could have taken it a different route, and the movie wouldn’t have suffered. I think a big thing that kept me from enjoying that aspect was the fight scene between the two wolfed out Talbots. The only thing i kept thinking was “So this is what ir would have looked like to see Michael J. Fox and James Hampton slug it out! (If you haven’t seen Teen Wolf to get the reference, go see it) Anthony Hopkins werewolf even had grey hair to boot! It was hilarious to watch once you get that image in your head. My only other regret in the movie is that you will never get to see Abberline wolf out. I don’t discount the movie for that though. I will if they make a sequel, but for now it’s just awesome to think of a werewolf Hugo Weaving.
Oh yes it does....
Saw 3-D vs. Paranormal Activity 2
You know I had a completely different write-up planned until I saw this. Originally, the article was about the two titans facing off. I was impressed! My favorite franchise facing off with my favorite movie of last year. It was going to be epic. But alas, Saw 3-D took the safe road and decided to open the next weekend. Giving up the spot that had been theirs for so long. All aside, I still feel that these movies deserve a discussion. You could still sort of say they are facing off with one another (even though Lionsgate is playing it safe). Lets size em up
Paranormal Activity 2
First, we have in the blue corner, the challenger! Coming in at a domestic box office gross of over $107 million. The supernatural thriller…..Paranormal Activity! This movie really blind sided me. I really wasn’t expecting it to be good. I thought it was going to be a movie like the Blairwitch. One of those were you kind of get it for a little while. Then you realize you were just caught up in all the hype. That reaction never happened for me with this particular movie. It impressed me to the point I had to show it to all my friends! (I have some jumpy ones) The film delivered on the jumps and the simple thrills. I was very impressed with how simple the effects where, while still able to evoke intense feeling of tension.
Saw 3-D
Next, the Red Corner! Topping out the charts at over $370 million for the whole series. The gore film extravaganza, the one, the only…..if it’s Halloween, it must be SAW!! I don’t care what you all say, I am in love with this series. Even when you think it’s going to be a sorry story, it’s not! Who could have known that Jigsaw’s work would span this long (especially when he **SPOILER ALERT** dies in 3!) Saw has impressed me every October since it’s release. And even though the gross box office last year wasn’t so good. (It came in well bellow that ever the original made in domestic box office sales) I still think this year is anyone’s year. everyone knows if it’s Halloween, it must be SAW!
So what is going to come out of all this? I really couldn’t tell you! I’m almost leaning more toward Paranormal Activity 2 picking up the win.Why? there are a few good reasons. For one, you have them working off of the fame of last year. Everybody is still clamoring over the last one, so this next one is going to be super anticipated. Top that with the fact that Saw is an older franchise, and what you have is a recipe for financial disaster. Really you can’t blame them for not wanting to play chicken with Paranormal Activity. Another huge factor is last year wasn’t that good for Saw. The movie got pitted against PA last year. As a result, they only made a little over half of what the original made in Box Office sales. Only time will tell what these two titans will do to one another. Personally, I can’t wait…
The Traps are set....
Otherwise of the reservation,
Malice Psychotik
Psychotik Playlist of the Week! 07/19/2010
Sorry this wasn’t in time for you to have at the beginning, but maybe it will make your Monday night better! This week I figured I would do something new and post some media so you can listen to the playlist. Hope you all enjoy this, if so leave some feed back and I will do it hence forth:
1) Jace Everett- True Blood OST- “Bad Things”
2) Chingon- Kill Bill Vol. 2 OST- “Malaguena Salerosa”
3) Nonpoint- Recoil- “Past It All”
4) Nonpoint- Recoil- “The Truth”
5) Nonpoint- Recoil- “In the Air Tonight”
6) System of a Down- Mezmerize- “BYOB”
7) System of a Down- Mezmerize- “Cigaro”
8) System of a Down- Mezmerize- “Violent Pornography”
9) System of a Down- Hypnotize- “Vicinity Obsenity”
10) System of a Down- Hypnotize- “Soldier Side”
11) Dir En Grey- Withering to Death- “Merciless Cult”
12) Dir En Grey- Withering to Death- “Saku”
13) Dir En Grey- Withering to Death- “Machiavellism”
14) Dir En Grey- Withering to Death-” The Final”
15) Dir En Grey- “Clever Sleazoid”
New Spidey, The Mighty Thor, and Edward Norton….Oh my…!
Well the last couple weeks have been pretty big for some Marvel fans. The new Spider-Man announced, new pictures from The Mighty Thor, and Edward Norton getting the big boot from The Avengers. It’s been enough to send any self-respecting fan boy into fits, negative or positive.
First off, let me say a few words about the new Spider-Man, When news first struck that they were starting the reboot of the series, I was upset. I really just didn’t think it was necessary, and was looking forward to see where else Raimi could take the series. Did I think it could be better? Yes. But couldn’t really tell you how, or who would make a better Spider-Man. Apparently, Sony Pictures feels that person is Andrew Garfield. I just don’t know yet. The only movies he has under his belt to note as of now are, The Other Boleyn Girl and The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus. The movie isn’t slated until 2012, so maybe we will see more of him. Being such a fan of Spider-Man in general, I have my worries. For more you can look here.
Edward plus Spidey...God I hope not!
Next up is the new picture from The Mighty Thor. I have to say I’m very impressed with the looks of this movie. Handling a character like Thor is not an easy one. On one end you can go way to far with the look making him look cheesy. Then on the other side, you can not go far enough and run the risk of loosing his look. I think they have handled a certain balance here that is very pleasing. Thor is not one of my favorites by a long shot. So far, out of The Avengers, I’m more Iron Man than anything! This movie I think may creep into second. Especially since, yet again, the role of the Hulk will go to someone else.
Click here to see the original article I found the picture from.
Anthony Hopkins as Odin....EPIC!!!
Last, we have the news of Edward Norton. It looks like yet again they will be handing over the role of Bruce Banner to another person. Apparently, the story is that the studio feels they need an actor who “embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members.” Norton’s Rep responded (in a nutshell) by saying he felt the remarks made by Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige were “unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory.” Seeing this I think that it isn’t more about an ensemble actor and more about money. I really hope this isn’t the case. I think Norton did an awesome job with the film, and hate to see it go to someone else. But what can you do right? For more on this matter, click here!
"Your giving me the boot as The Hulk!? NOOOOOOOOOO"
Well that’s all on that for now. I’ll try to keep everyone posted as things come available.
Keep it Twisted
Malice Psychotik
“I will Survive” the Holocaust….
OK, has everyone seen the video blowing up the web of the old man dancing in front of the concentration camps to “I will Survive”? If you haven’t be sure to check it out below. I have to say once I heard about this video, I was shocked. I just couldn’t process the thought of this happening. Why? Well it wasn’t because I thought it was offensive. I just needed to process the meaning. The more I thought about it, the more cool I thought it was. It does make an interesting point. Others aren’t as open as I am though.
The Video has been causing all types of drama on websites like Facebook, Myspace, and Twitter. People are so up in arms about this! The emotions range anywhere from deeply offended to absolute disgust. They don’t see it for what it was meant for at all. Instead, they accuse this man and his family of making a mockery. This video has really raised questions as to what is and isn’t acceptable when it comes to the Holocaust. So, does this fit the criteria for an offensive display? Has this man and his family gone to far? First lets take a look at both sides. They both really make an impressive argument.
On on side you have the deeply offended. Basically, their thoughts are that dancing in front of those places is an affront to the dead. That by dancing, you aren’t just celebrating your life, but mocking the death of millions. To some, this is offensive. The idea that you could bring yourself to dance at a place like that is more than some can handle. Let alone be able to laugh and have a good time. We are talking about places where some of the most brutal acts the human race is capable of have taken place. Places where lives and families where shattered. What could make this man think this is a good idea?
The positive side of the issue says that they see no mocking, more a man and his family celebrating his life. It was Hiltlers goal to wipe out the Jews. This man is living proof of that failure. He did “survive!” They feel it paints a very good picture of how he not only survived, but carried on. The fact that he can make this family with two other generations of his family speaks volumes by itself. Where do I stand?
I don’t see the problem with it. On one side (a very, very SMALL side) I see where some are offended. However, I know most of the people who are offended are the type of people who get offended over EVERYTHING. The sickening fact is, most that are protesting it are most likely A) Not Jewish B) Have no Jewish ancestors. This being the case why are you offended. He went through it, not you. To that I feel if it helps him to strip butt-naked and do the Macarena, it’s his business. What ever helps! Would that paint a very good tribute? No! But again his business. I think the message stands for itself. The video paints a message of “Hey, you tried your best. But you know what? I’m still here and so’s my family” How people are missing this obvious message I will never know. Trust me, this is FAR from offensive when you have witnessed the things this psychopath has witnessed! If this is the most offensive thing you have ever seen, you have a rough road ahead of you.
You know what though, don’t take my word for it click here to see for yourself. Feel free to tell me what you think.
Until Next Time,
Malice Psychotik
Lady Gaga in The White Piano Fiasco…
Fans are in a tizzy after a picture posted by Sean Lennon. The controversy started after Sean posted a picture of Lady Gaga on his Twitter account. The picture was of the Diva sitting down at a white piano that Sean’s father, John Lennon, bought his mother. Apparently, Beatles fans don’t feel Gaga should have the right to sit at the piano. It has caused an uproar throughout the fan base. Sean has responded to the comments by saying, “Firstly, he gave that piano to my mother for her birthday, it is hers. Secondly, he was not uptight the way you seem to be.” Also adding, “Come on, lighten up…life’s too short, there’s enough real problems in the world….”
What are my thoughts on the issue? Grow up! It’s not even like the piano was John’s or a personal instrument like his guitar or something to that extent. Not that it would even matter then. Who’s to say she doesn’t have the right to sit behind it? She has risen to stardom pretty quickly. Granted she could have been wearing more clothes. Then again I’m pretty sure I have seen video of John naked. So something tells me this would not be a big deal to him. Let’s not also forget the main fact that this is YOKO’s piano, and Lady Gaga was a GUEST in HER house. It’s all rather silly….
I’m really just baffled by the response by the fans. Lennon was an activist for peace and was all about acceptance. So for his fan base to act this way is really….ironic. They can love his songs about peace, love , and harmony to death. However, let Lady Gaga play a piano that the only REAL connection he had to it was buying it for his wife, they turn into the meanest bunch of trolls this side of the internet. I actually have a theory to this.
Here goes! I don’t think they actually hate the fact she touched the piano. More or less, I think they just hate it because it’s the cool thing to do. You see a lot of that lately. One group of people start an uproar, and because others don’t want to be viewed as different, they pile on the “bashing train.” To say things like she is untalented or undeserving is short-sighted. Hell, I don’t like pop music, but I won’t deny she is talented. She has a nice shock value about her. Not to mention the fact she can really rock out on the piano! And you know what, I see her on the level of John Lennon, Madonna, Marilyn Manson, and Elvis someday. If you think it was disgraceful because of her outfit, fine. Silly, but fine. But to outright say she is untalented and undeserving because her style is not the same as yours is just ignorance. I could almost stamp a guarantee on the fact that most people saying this have never heard more than 30 seconds of one song.
If you are wanting to see the original post, follow to the original article on Yahoo News…
Till Next Time
Malice Psychotik
300…..2?
Today at work, one of my co-workers told me the news about 300 2. I then told him what a filthy liar he was and that it was impossible. It wasn’t until he pulled out his phone and showed me the trailer that I believed him. All I can say is WOW!! It looks fantastic! I can’t belive the studio is going for it. The 1st movie was just so awesome, and ended in such a way you couldn’t see this one coming.
So what do you think….have the studios gone to far? Are they reaching too much to get the summer blockbusters? I tend to say yes….But trust me, THIS one is different (as you will see in the trailer below) What can we expect to see?
Well first you have the action. 300 established an awesome precedent for all war scenes. Several Movies that came out after 300 took a page from the Spartan bag of tricks (X-Men Origins: Wolverine anyone?) So you know they are going to have the high intensity gore and the slow motion fight scenes we all came to love.
The other thing to expect is the epic story line! They have done a wonderful job with the script. Creating a tale of an unstoppable group. A group that will stop at nothing to keep their freedom and get what is rightfully theirs. You know, instead of describing it, I think I will let the trailer speak for it self.
So without much more delay (and as much haste as possible) I give you the premiere of the trailer for….300: 2!
OK let’s get serious……did any of you lol like I did when I saw that? I thought he was serious!! Thank you Rob, that made my day!!
Hope you enjoyed
Malice Psychotik
Psychotik Playlist of the Week!
Well tomorrow is Monday and I know a lot of you are recovering from the weekend. I always find, music solves all my problems. I generally have a song for everything there is to come across in life. With that in mind, I offer you a new weekly item from Encyclopedia Psychotika, The Psychotik Playlist of the Week! How do I pick these songs? No real rhyme or reason just what ever I have been listening to lately! I hope it helps you through the week:
1) Kiss- Symphony Alive IV– “Psycho Circus”
2) Kiss- Symphony Alive IV– “Strutter”
3) Kiss- Symphony Alive IV- “Black Diamond”
4) Kiss- Symphony Alive IV- “Love Gun”
5) Slipknot- All Hope is Gone- “Snuff”
6) Slipknot- All Hope is Gone- “Dead Memories”
7) The Adventures of Duane and Brando- D & B EP of Doom- “Mega Man 2”
8) The Adventures of Duane and Brando- D & B EP of Doom- “The Legend of Zelda”
9) The Adventures of Duane and Brando- D& B EP of Doom- “Castlevania”
10) Lady Gaga- The Fame Monster- “Telephone”
11) Rob Zombie- Vol. 2 Hellbilly Deluxe- “What!?”
12) Rob Zombie- Vol. 2 Hellbilly Deluxe- “Mars Needs Women”
13) Rob Zombie- Vol. 2 Hellbilly Deluxe- “Werewolf Woman of the S.S.”
14) Nonpoint- Recoil- “Past it All”
Keep it Psychotik
Malice Psychotik
Top 5 Ways to Die in a Garage…
Yesterday, I was at work when something occurred to me: There is a lot of grizzly ways to die in a garage! Anything can go wrong at any minuet. Whether it be you making an innocent mistake OR a co-worker of lesser intelligence, the list was endless. So I pulled out the pen and paper and tried limiting myself to five. It was hard, but I’m pretty sure that these are the worst ways to go. I’ll start with the lesser ones first:
5) Accidental Engine Start: Have you looked in your engine lately? There are a lot of places to get your hands caught in. Those same places would end pretty gruesome if someone started the car with your hand in it! Here is the scenario: Your finishing up an oil change. You’ve jut added the oil and your going to close the oil cap. Your co-worker gets in the car and gets ready to start (because he’s trying to be nice). Accidently, you know the oil cap into the engine. You see it lying in the fan casing for the radiator. When you bend down to get it, not only is your arm against the fan, BUT your shoulder and lower neck is leaning down on the alternator fan. (just to add to the gore, lets say your hand is wrapped in the serpentine belt!) You say to your self, “Damn it!” Your co-worker misunderstands you, and starts the car!!
Result: Upon starting the radiator fan spins and starts cutting up your forearm. This is of course the least of your worries because the serpentine belt has pulled your arm down. It’s pulled your arm closer to the alternator fan. The alternator fan ends you because it mowing through your neck, mutilating you jugular vein!
Chances it will happen: Unless your co-workers are the dumbest in the world (or really high!) This mistake is avoidable. Let’s face it, most people wouldn’t start the car until they saw you clear of it anyway…right? Even if they did, unless you’re a real Nimrod, hopefully, you know to keep hands clear of those parts.
So many possibilities....
4) Guiding a Car in: When someone pulls a vehicle in, they must have someone help them. The person helping acts as a spotter, and makes sure it comes in straight. Now, the real danger here (or at least at my garage) is what the car is getting. If you are pulling in a car for tire work, you actually have enough room you could probably overt disaster. pulling in an oil change though, is another monster all together. You have bars on either side keeping you in and bars right behind you. Here’s the example: Your co-worker is pulling in a car for oil change. You go to guide him in. Instead of standing outside of the bars you step in. He pulls the car in , but as he’s driving, The cars brakes fail!!
Result: The car flies into the bay at about 12mph. You can’t get out-of-the-way in time so the car slams you into the bars behind you. So bad that it bends the bars out. The jolt brakes you back and smashes your pelvis.
Chances it will Happen: Well I won’t say it impossible, but you know it’s not too likely. Most people creep into the bay, they don’t crash in there. Soo really if this one happens, it will be because the brakes have gone out. I would hope you could figure out whether or not the brakes work within the first few seconds of driving! On another note, can easily be avoided if you stand behind the bars
All that metal coming at you, could cause some serious injury...
3) Flying Valve Core: When you but a new tire on a rim you have to remove the valve core. So two times you are dealing with this tiny little bugger. Once when you let the air out and once when you finish setting the bead on the tire. Either time you mess with it, there is a lot of air pressure behind that thing. About 35 to 40 lbs of pressure depending on the size. More if it’s a diesel. Lets say you are putting the new core in once you bead the tire. You start to tighten it down, but your hand slips on the core remover. Since the valve core hasn’t threaded all the way it rockets out of stem at high velocity speed.
Result: Depending on what part of the body it hits is whether or not it’s lethal. However, they aren’t exactly blunt, the sharp edges would be enough to cause some damage. It hits you in the neck you are looking at some severe bleeding if it strikes an artery. Hits you anywhere else it may be a ouchy. Unless it were to get you in the eye…in that case my vote is death!
Chances it will Happen: The vale core getting away from you is HIGHLY likely! However it being so small, the chances of it hitting a vital area aren’t that good. The only real places I see it being bad is the eye or the jugular. Since you usually are wearing safety glasses, I don’t see it getting your eye.
High pressured projectile...
2) Decapitation by Tire: Not many people realize this, but beading the tire can be very dangerous. If there are any defects with the tire on the underside or if your just plain carless and over inflate, the tire can blow right of the changer! You see when you take the tire off, you lock the rim down with clamps. These clamps will hold it on, unless the tire blows out. Having a bubble in a new tire is very rare, but it happens. Lets say you are working on a Dually Truck. The tires are normally pretty big and take around 60 to 70lbs of pressure. If the bubble comes up on the underside, you aren’t going to see it. The bubble will just grow and grow until it reaches its limit, and when it does POW!! The tire releases the air content sending it flaying off the clamps and into the air!
Result: Well it depends on where you are standing. Some people lean away, and some lean closer to the tire. If you are leaning away there is a good chance you can avoid it coming up. However when it comes down, that much weight falling on lets say…you HEAD could kill you! If you are leaning closer…..decapitation seems pretty likely.
Chances it could Happen: Of the tire blowing out, not all that likely. Chances of you surviving if it did…not as good.
Those clamps look awfully little...
And finally our number one….
1) Bay Falling on You: You have to lift the car to work on it. The only way around that is an oil pit bay, and we don’t have those at my shop! This actually happens more than you think! All it takes is one little break and you could have a lift and a car laying on top of you. Don’t really think I need to give a scenario for this one. The only thing you need to know is the lift is falling and you are under it!!
Result: The bay and car have crushed you!! There really is no getting away. Now if you dropped as soon as you could you may get away with a broken skull. More than likely though you are one big pancake!
Chances it could Happen: Better than you think. Lifts are supposed to be changed every 5 to 7 years. Most places ignore that and just keep fixing them.
I wouldn't like being under that...
So there you have it, my list of garage disasters! Hope you found it enlightening! Now if you don’t mind, I’m going to bed. Hmm, wonder what could happen there!
Till Next Time,
Malice Psychotik
Dusker of the Month for July: Mrs. Stray
Well I’m very excited and honored to announce the very first featured Dusker of the month! None other than From Dusk Till Cons very own, Mrs. Stray!
Photo by Kerri McConnell
Most veteran posters know Mrs. Stray as our fun-loving, mother of three, stalking extraordinaire! For those of you that don’t know her, get ready to! So, without further a due, I present Interview with a Mrs. Stray….
Malice Psychotik: So, how does it feel to be the first FDTC Featured Dusker of the Month?
Mrs. Stray: A true honor. I have met some great people on FDTC…I’m glad I get to pop the Featured Dusker cherry.
M.P: Well it is an honor to get the chance to interview you. You may not be a Hollywood movies star, but you know I’d like to see some of them raise 3 kids and hold a job!
Mrs. S: Aww now you’ve got me blushing. Actually our goal is to have more kids than the Angelina Jolie compound but I don’t think we’re gonna make it at this pace. I am also rather proud of being married for 12 years, at least I got her beat in that department.
M.P.: Ha Ha! That is true! Well let’s let the readers know you a little better. What is it like in the daily life of Mrs. Stray?
Mrs. S: Since I am a mother of 3 children and work fulltime, I am pretty busy. Pretty much get out of work at 4:30am and sleep, once the beauty rest is complete, I then take care of kids (summer), find a homeless person and beat them within an inch of their life, work out and then head back to work. Typical mom stuff – I’m pretty domesticated.
M.P: So that’s why the homeless numbers are down in the area! Wow! Ever find time in your schedule to watch a movie or read a book? If so what are some favorites?
Mrs. S: Never have time to read but I love watching movies. Me and the rest of the patients in my ward have to watch movies approved by the doc – so mostly Disney films to keep us calm.
Photo by: Kerri McConnell
M.P: Yeah those psych-wards can be a drag right? Well I’m sure you find time for music. Any Favorite bands or songs?
Mrs. S: I LOVE EVERYTHING COUNTRY! Although, right now though my favorite song is by Chamillionaire, Good Morning (Haters)- it’s oddly appropriate for this period in my life. (YouTube it)
M.P: See I never would have pegged you for a country music person! Now, you are known for your epic celeb stalking, any favorites and why?
Mrs. S: I would have to say Rochelle Davis. Mainly because when we first met her we warned her that we would stalk her and eventually grew a great friendship with her. The bushes outside her home are HUGE and really easy to hide in! Not to mention the police in her neighborhood are REALLY slow to respond to suspicious persons calls. (Mr.Chainsaw and Tex were there to witness the VIP stalking the first year)
M.P: Some of the best relationships in the world are forged from stalking (and some of the biggest legal battles)! Is there any guests that just were “unstalkable”, or you were turned off to when you got closer?
Mrs. S: There’s a particular female horror icon that I’ve always idolized (who shall remain nameless) . A few years back tried to get her attention and she gave our group the hand…she will no longer be on my stalk list….unfortunately sometimes when you get too close to the magic show it ruins the illusion.
M.P: It’s a shame when that happens. Is there anything you have for the little stalkers out there? Any tips or words of wisdom for the beginners?
Mrs. S: Most celebs can spot crazy a mile away – so I hide behind a plant or pretend to be sleeping until they get close – THEN I spring into action and leap like a panther on its prey. Also, gradually build up your tolerance for pepper spray.
Photo by: Kerri McConnell
M.P: You know I always see your Troubled Brand banner in your signature. I have to ask, what is Troubled Brand exactly?
Mrs. S: It’s a line of goodies that celebrate the criminal and deviant side of the human psyche – not so much about good or evil, no one truly sees them self as one or the other – even serial killers rationalize their behavior as “normal”. The site should launch by Q3 2010 which is when most folks will hear more about it.
M.P: Any chance we can get an exclusive sneak peek?
Mrs. S: I am thinking this is a possibility.
M.P: Nice! I’ll have to hold you to that. So it’s come to my attention that Troubled is presenting Rochelle Davis this year at Spooky Empire’s Ultimate Horror Weekend. How does it feel to be contributing to your favorite show?
Mrs. S: I feel truly blessed for several reasons. First and foremost that Petey is giving us the opportunity to do so. Secondly, that Rochelle agreed to represent our unique brand of stuff. And lastly that the Wyndham is dropping all charges on Mr. Stray and lifting the trespassing warrant – it’s hot in Florida and disguises just to get in make it a lot worse on him.
M.P: That’s awesome! I’m sure it will be a great experience for everyone! (Especially now that Stray doesn’t need the giant furrie outfit!) Before we end, I just wondered if you would mind doing a few word associations?
Mrs. S: Sure!
M.P: Alright! Here we go:
M.P: Celebrity = Mrs. S: Security
M.P: Monkey = Mrs. S: Costume
M.P: Midget = Mrs. S: Distraction
M.P: Crow = Mrs. S: Face paint
M.P: Horror = Mrs. S: Expression
M.P: Psychotik = Mrs.S: Diagnosis
M.P: This has been a very nice experience, and I want to thank you for your time. Real quick before you go, is there anything you would like to add?
Mrs.S: Don’t forget to drink your Ovaltine.
M.P: Ha Ha Ha! Alright and who’s your one favorite spot for madness on the web?
Mrs. S: The only thing that comes to mind would be Encyclopedia Psychotika..is there any other spot for madness on the web?
Photo by: Kerri McConnell
There you have it folks! The very first From Dusk Till Con Dusker of the Month! I hope everyone enjoyed reading as much as I enjoyed interviewing. Keep a look out for Troubled Brand in late 2010! I’m sure there are amazing things to come from that venture.
Until Next Month,
Malice Psychotik
From Dusk Till Cons Featured Dusker of the Month
So I was talking to Mr. Chainsaw of From Dusk till Con last night, and we came up with the great idea. The idea was to feature a member of the forum to be the featured member of the month! I find it a great honor to be trusted with such a responsibility!
Basicly what we are looking at is picking a member to be featured each month! This member will be interviewed, and the interview will be featured here. Why are we doing this you ask? Well why not! Really I think everyone deserves their own personal spot light. Employee of the month is never fair enough. Becoming a celebrity takes time. So here’s to it! Look for July’s Dusker of the Month soon….
Malice Psychotik
Encyclopedia Psychotika 