Psychotik Review: “Wit’s End” by David Lee Madison
Oh my, how time flies when you stick yourself in a deep pit of despair. Then instead of finding the way out, you find that you just stuck yourself on a damn hamster wheel! Hello my cheeky monkeys! I’ve missed you all! What brings me back you may ask? After all of the false starts and dud take offs, what made me dust off the key board? If chaos, possible world ending events, a pandemic, civil unrest, and multiverse level threats cant do it… What can? or Who can?! How about an old friend? David Lee Madison ((Mr. Hush, Middle Village)) has released a new movie, Wit’s End. I had been lurking in the shadows while he developed this. So when he asked me to get a peek at it, how could I refuse? It was an honor. Lets get into the review shall we?
Psychotik Review: Wit’s End
Let’s start with the plot synapses: Jeffrey Stevens ((David Lee Madison)) is an amazing father, husband, and friend. Life throws him a left hook when he must battle a unexpected blizzard. Stranded in the woods with no service and just his wits, will he make it home to his loved ones or will this be his Wit’s End… See what I did there? That is the story! Very simple, great story telling. Honestly, I found something very warm and fuzzy in this film. Its not a big Hollywood blockbuster, but it offers something warm to the soul.
The movie sets up establishing Jeff’s character. You have a few warm moments with him and his daughter Jessica ((played by Amanda Madison)). Then you move on to some pretty funny back and forth banter between him and his brother and their best friend, Tom Stevens ((Brian O’Halloran)) and Steve ((Scott Sciaffo)). Pay attention and you may even find an Easter Egg for another set of movies we all love ((Tee Hee)). The chemistry in these scenes are nice refreshing slice of life type stuff, that you can only real life bonds. Warm and fuzzy! The movie progresses with Jeff going out to his family cabin to get some gifts he has stashed away for Valentines while his wife and child are away. Simple errand with the possibility of some free time right? Well mother nature has a way of putting a wrench in your plans. Or in Jeff’s case, a tire iron to the knee and a whole lot of ice! I would love to go further but I really don’t want to ruin anything.
Wit’s End is a slice of life movie we need. David Madison delivers with a step outside of the conventional summer blockbuster and big budget film to tell a tale worth telling. How far will a person go for his loved ones? What type of adversity could they face when it seems like the world has turned on them? In a world with so much pain and uncertainty, this is a warm tale we need. A tale of love that’s just good for the soul. It made me think: What would I do to get back to my kids? How far would I go?
So overall, what do I rate it? How any Top Hats? I think I’m going to drop the rating portion of these reviews. I’ve grown to not really like that style of review. I’m not a fan of metacritic sites. People get to dialed into quantifying movies by numbers. I don’t want to be a part of that wheel anymore. Just go see it! It’s a great movie. Its streaming on demand now. I know Amazon has it. So buy or rent it today, and enjoy some food for the heart and soul!
That’s all for now my cheeky monkeys! It wont be long between these articles. I think its time for me to come back. Like really time ya know?
Until Next Time, My Cheeky Monkeys,
Malice Psychotik
Cthulhu Save the Queen…The Scream Queen Jessica Cameron
Hey there, Darlings! All of you I’m sure by now are very familiar with the indie film, Mr. Hush. So far I’ve interviewed nearly the entire main cast. I’m only missing two in my collection (yes I collect interviews and you should all be so lucky I don’t collect humans. The reason I don’t? Have to feed and shelter you…Apparently humans don’t like a crystal box on the high shelf…hmm…) at Fatality Fest, I added one more to my list. None other than Scream Queen Jessica Cameron! She is a real jewel Darlings! I urge you if she is at a show that you are at, stop by. She acts, she directs, she produces, she writes, she makes jewelry….She is the horror communities equivalent to a freakin’ Barbie! We didn’t just talk Hush though…no we chatted about some other very cool things she had in the works. Top Hats on Darlings! Have a shot of Jager…
Cthulhu Save the Queen…The Scream Queen
Jessica Cameron
Malice Psychotik: How many films have you done?
Jessica Cameron: I have done currently over 70 different independent projects. That includes web series, tv shows (both network and non), I have done pilots, independent films, pretty much if you can shoot it, I’ve done it. Except for porn. That is available for viewing haha!
MP: One film you have done is Mr. Hush. How did you come across this film?
JC: Mr. Hush, I came across the Facebook page and I loved the story that I saw. I reached out to David and said I would love to be involved. He looked at my reel and we made an offer and I was just thrilled! I had so much fun. David is such a passionate filmmaker and he had this awesome original story. I think it is so special, to me. It really is a special little film. I love David Madison, his lovely wife and his gorgeous little child. She played my daughter in the movie. They’re just really good people. You know when you meet people and you’re like “you are good people”. They are good people and they made a good movie. And I can’t wait to see what they do next.
MP: What were some stories from the set? Anything happen?
JC: I was only in the movie for 5 days which is 3 weeks. But it was a really good set. I think it was really lighthearted. Our DP Jack Schaefer was awesome. There is a great scene where two of the leads are at the bridge and the camera angle is from the center point of view. And it was funny because the DP really wanted to get the shot and David really wanted it as well but then David was like “You know what, I’m concerned because we can’t get the shot.” We didn’t have a crane we actually had to hike up and down these hills. It took like 20 minutes to get to the location so we had to bring minimal equipment. And our DP was like “Screw it! This is why we have insurance.” He took his red camera and walked out across the rocks like in thigh high water to get the shot. At one point right after we were done shooting and when he went to come in, he actually slipped and fell. And the camera went up in the air in his hands and it really wasn’t too far above the water.
MP: What other films do you have coming out that everyone should keep an eye out for?
JC: Well my directorial debut which is Truth Or Dare which I am phenomenally excited about. It’s my first time directing and I actually co-wrote the script. It is a very brilliant, beautiful, twisted, crazy torture flick. So it’s definitely not for the faint of heart or those with weak stomachs. If you have a weak stomach then don’t watch this movie. It’s not the movie for you.
MP: I love those movies!
JC: I know right?! That’s what I think. But you know initially I didn’t want to direct it. I wanted to find a director and half the people we approached were like “it’s too much Jessica. Tone it down.” And I was like no! You’re not changing my story. Why do I have to tone it down? You’re not a studio and I’m not getting studio money. They were like “People are going to be offended.” And I’m like so what? I have never met a horror fan who would hold against the filmmaker that they were offended. They just turn it off. If it’s not your thing, that’s cool. I get it. But you know what? I don’t care. This is my thing. I made a story that I love. That I think is relative to society and I made it as bloody and gory and insane as the story needed to be. I definitely think we are going to offend some people and people are going to walk out and I’m cool with that. This is my warning! If you have a weak stomach, this is not a movie for you. If you have a delicate moral sensibility, this is not a movie for you. We push all of those boundaries and that’s what I love about it. And if you don’t, no problem.
MP: Just looking at the picture you have on your table and you said its real gorey, how many buckets of blood do you think you used in this film?
JC: I have no idea! I know we went through about half of our expense budget was basically just blood. Those of you who don’t know, you can make cheap blood or you can make expensive blood. We actually made the really, really good stuff and we made it all from scratch. We actually kept it on camera the whole time before we settled on one because we wanted to make sure the blood looked really good and believable. You know it’s a very fine line. Blood on camera has to be minimally redder than real life to show up properly. Because real blood in real life goes into this brownish color and doesn’t ? on camera. But you don’t want to make it too much where it looks like red paint.
MP: Can you give us a short run down of the film?
JC: Well it essentially centers around a group of 6 kids who met in college during a marketing program. They have a Truth Or Dare Youtube channel. Their number one fan decides he wants to play their game but he’s got a few rules of his own. Things start to go horribly awry. It actually started with Derek, our protagonist, the ubber fan, he’s actually based off an actor we all know. You know that guy who is desperate to be famous to have people love him and to have friends. He wants to belong. That’s kind of where we started. We were like what would make that guy snap? I live in L.A. I know that guy. I know tons of that guy. What would make that man snap? Well let’s put him in front of these 6 kids who stumbles upon internet fame. They haven’t worked for it and they don’t really appreciate it and they’re not cherishing it. You know what would make him go to that breaking point.
MP: That sounds like an awesome movie! Can’t wait to see it when it comes out. So is there anything awesome going on in the horror community that you want to be a part of?
JC: The Soska sisters! I think they’re brilliant. I think they are revolutionary. I love their sense of being, their brilliance and determination and everything they do. For me, American Mary was one of the top 3 films of last year. I think everyone who is a horror fan should see it. They NEED to see it. It is a brilliant film. So I’m definitely a huge fan of them. They also happen to be women from Canada. And what’s cooler than that? They are also some of the most humble people you are going to meet. I am a big big fan of that. I don’t like people who have an attitude. I don’t like people who are dramatic. I just want to make movies. So those girls are everything I love about independent filmmaking. So anything that they are involved with I am a huge supporter and hopefully we’ll get to work together. I’ve also got Intrusive Behavior coming out which is a Florida based film. I was actually here last week for the premier. I can’t wait for the world to see it! It is a really great film. It’s actually where I met in person, Heather Dorf. I had known her for a long time in the independent scene and I met her in person and Heather Dorf blew me away! Her performances are unbelievable! That’s how I cast her in Truth Or Dare. I also have coming out Clone City 2064. It is a film that I produced and also have a small role in. It’s set in a futuristic world where we all have clones and someone is killing off one of the detectives clones. So we just signed to distributor so this is new too. I haven’t been public before but thank you for allowing press on that. We have a lot of interest and a lot of feed. I think it’s a really great story and should be shown.
MP: Well thank you for sitting down for the interview. It’s nice to add another member of the Hush family 🙂
How was that, huh? Jessica is the best kind of people and I hope to be seeing more of her around these parts. Truth or Dare looks bad ass. Can’t wait! That’s it for now Darlings. Still have a lot for you all to look forward too. I’ll see if I can drum up a little HHN 23 news for you too…
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Psychotik Review: Mr. Hush
Alright this has been a long time coming, and I’m so happy to be able to finally review this film. As some of you may know who have been with us from the get go…or those of you that like to browse my back catalogue of articles…know about Mr. Hush. I feel so bad that I have sat on this review for so long. I know a few people who have been dying for my thoughts on it (Literally I have been to two funerals over this so far and can’t do it anymore…lol) Seriously though, this has been a long journey and I can’t wait for the next one David Madison set’s me on. Without beating around the bush…and no more around the tush…Allow me to present…
Psychotik Review: Mr. Hush
Behold his greatness!
Allow me to start this off my saying I’m generally not a fan of Independent Films. Most experiences I’ve had in the past were very bad. Not to say that their haven’t been times that I’ve been amazed. Also in saying this though, I’d like to add I’ve come to know what to expect from these movies. Hush stands head and shoulders above others. Let’s not start out with the rating though…I want you all to sweat! The film is about Holland Price (Brad Loree), an average enough guy with a perfect family. This all changes one Halloween night when a priest shows up at his door. According to him, he was taking some children trick or treating when his vehicle caught a flat. He just needed to use the phone. Seems legit? WRONG! I a single instance all goes wrong and thus begins Hollands nightmare. Flash 10 years in the future and Holland has become a drifter that suffers from nightmares of the night his wife was murdered and his daughter disappeared. He still searches for her, clinging to the thought she is still out there. It’s when he stops to settle down a bit…he finds the nightmare…has found him once again.
Before I dive into pro’s and con’s, let me start off with saying this is an independent film, and as such there are some things you have to take into consideration. Independent films are very low budget most of the times. So picking at bad visual effects, shaky camera, and other small details…you can’t really do that fairly. These are present in most if not all independent films. They can’t all have Rick Baker, Tom Savini, or film in an IMAX camera. So if your watching this movie, don’t rate it yourself comparing it to a multimillion dollar flick. At this point you are being unfair. You have to appreciate it for what it is. A throwback to the old horror movies of the 80’s. Something that was done wonderfully. Now that that’s out of the way…Pro’s and Con’s (I’m going to reverse the two so we end on a positive note!)
Cons
Really there isn’t much bad I have to say about Hush. The main problems I found was with transitions and character development. Some of the transitions between dream sequences and flashes forward in time are left unclear. It takes you a minuet to gather your thoughts and realize you aren’t really lost. A couple of times it happened and I was like “Whoa, Did I miss something?”
As far as character development goes, you learn a nice bit about most of the characters. Definitely enough to keep the movie moving. I just wish there was more. Some of the relationships that are formed are unclear because you don’t know how much time has lapsed. This con is almost a good thing, because that means the film had characters worth wanting to know more about it.
Pros
Ah, a lot of these to be had. But I’m only going to gush over a few. I enjoyed the casting, the story, the ending (the ending is going to have spoilers…but don’t worry I’ll warn you…this is number 1) The casting in this movie is very interesting. This is the first speaking main role for Brad Loree who usually is just a stunt man. I do hope this isn’t his last lead role as he did very well. The antagonistic role is played with a chilling sadistic nature by Edward X. Young. The man plays a villain like no other. He can go from purely calm in demeanor to psycho in seconds. Stephen Geoffreys is like the perfect lackey and very much so a nod to his roles from the 80’s (Fright Night, 976-EVIL). Steve Dash will make you smile from ear to ear as will director Thomas Churchill. Neither one has much screen time, but boy the time they are on screen…you won’t forget them. Watch out for Spoilers ahead….
Story was another thing I enjoyed. It is cut from the same cloth has most horror from the 80’s, but in an original pattern. it’s refreshing to see a call back to when horror was really different. It wasn’t afraid to have comedy. It wasn’t afraid to be a little campy. The dialogue in this movie will chill you in some areas and in others make you have a real gut wrenching laugh (Listen for “You Smelly Fuck!”…your going to lose it and not get it back!! lol) A + for freshness….Spoiler Alert coming up ….now!!!
***SPOILER ALERT***
Who is this Edward Cullen you speak of?
The ending is really worth mentioning as a pro. You don’t see it coming. Obviously you get their is something off about Mr. Hush. A sort of supernatural quality. What you don’t expect is him turning into a grey shark tooth fanged vampire. You also don’t expect one of the most hilarious vampire staking since Paul Rubens in Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Huey Lewis and the News isn’t a bad addition either. I like the twist ending the most. You sort of see it, but it’s not at the front of your mind for sure. Age old vampire grudge over Hollands grandfather killing Hush’s mate? it’s very refreshing not seeing regurgitated ideas.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, I give David Lee Madison’s Mr. Hush 4 out of 5 Top Hats. If you’re a fan of independent film, or just wanting to see a good fresh horror flick pick it up! It’s available at Blockbuster and through Netflix by mail. I really can’t wait to see further projects from David Madison. Hats off sir…Hats off! That will be all for today Darlings! Stay tuned for more madness!
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
P.S. Did you know Encyclopedia Psychotika has a Facebook? By clicking HERE and liking this page you will be able to stay up to date on whats next on your favorite place for madness on the web! Also…do you like beautiful women but can’t seem to find anything but the stereotypical? Look no further! Your ol’ pal Malice has collected for you a bouquet of rare beauties in their natural state! Find them by liking the Psychotik Girls page HERE
Madison’s Mr. Hush to be realeased on Blu-Ray and DVD
I have big news (that thanks to Yahoo I got rather late…seesh!) I’m sure all of you remember our good friend David Madison right? Well you better! Anyway, Dave sent me an email the other day with good news about his film, Mr. Hush. It seems that it has been picked up my a distributor and we will see it on Blu-Ray and DVD August 5th, 2012. I’m so happy this has finally happened. He has been working so hard to make this happen (plus I really, Really, REALLY want to see it damn it!!!) So the following is the press release from Kino Lorber’s Horizon Movies:
Epic cover means epic movie…..
HORIZON MOVIES ACQUIRES ALL NORTH AMERICAN
RIGHTS TO MR. HUSH (2011) A NEW HORROR FILM
FROM WRITER/DIRECTOR DAVID LEE MADISON
NEW YORK, NY MAY 15, 2012- Kino Lorber’s Horizon
Movies label is proud to announce the acquisition of all North
American rights to MR. HUSH, a new horror film that
celebrates the classic style of the horror movies of the 1970’s and 1980’s.The film premiered at Anthology Film Archives in 2011 and
continued its limited theatrical release at the Laemmle Sunset
5 in West Hollywood, The Hollywood Theater in Pittsburgh, PA
and most recently at the Majestic Cinemas in Matamoras, PA, among others.
The film tells the story of Holland Price, a devoted husband
and loving father, who, unbeknownst to him, becomes the
target of evil and dark forces. An idyllic, small Pennsylvania
town serves as the background for this epic battle between
good and evil.
Inspired by the horror films he watched growing up, director
David Lee Madison set out to create a new film with classic
sensibilities, not only in terms of story and structure, but also
going as far as casting some of the actors from the films of
that era. MR. HUSH is scheduled to be released on Bluray,
DVD and digitally on August 7, 2012.
“As a product of the 80s, I was exposed to some of the finest
horror films ever made,” said writer, director and executive
producer, David Lee Madison.
“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.”
Steve Dash, known to horror fans as the first actor to portray
Jason Voorhees (as an adult) from Friday The 13th: Part 2
recalls, “David, the director called me and said that he was
doing this film and would like to have some roles in the film
filled with people from classic horror movies. I said send me
the script, I’ll take a look at it, and I really liked it. The role of
“Mac” that he had picked for me was great, so I decided to do the film.”
“I’m excited to be working with Kino Lorber’s recently
launched Horizon Movies label. It’s certainly an honor to have
my film distributed by a company that has shown their
dedication to the horror genre with their Redemption film line
of classic horror films and to be in the company of filmmakers
that include Mario Bava, Wes Craven, and Jean Rollin”, said
writer and director David Lee Madison.
Madison’s film is populated with icons of the 1980’s horror
genre that include Stephen Geoffreys (Fright Night, 976EVIL),
Steve Dash (Friday the 13th: Part 2, Nighthawks), Brad Loree
(Halloween: Resurrection) along with costars
Edward X. Young (Sea of Dust) and Jessica Cameron (Silent Night).
This acquisition was negotiated between Kino Lorber’s Vice
President of Home Entertainment Sales & Distribution Eric D.
Wilkinson and Writer, Director and Executive Producer David Lee Madison.
Kino Lorber:
Kino Lorber curates high quality, critically acclaimed films for discerning audiences.
So, it’s with great pleasure that I give congrats to David Madison and the rest of the cast and crew that made Mr. Hush possible. Most excellent job guys and ghouls, can’t wait to enjoy it. I wish you all the best and…PARTY ON DUDES!!!
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
p.s I have some news to pass on to you about Halloween Horror Nights…but that will be tomorrow…STAY TUNED!!!
“You’re so cool Brewster!”…Story Time with Stephen Geoffreys
Well, my Freaky Darlings, it’s been a rather silent spell from me. I do apologize for that. Old Malice’s batteries have been recharged though, and I’m back ready for more! This interview I’m giving to you was a long time in the works. You’ve been waiting for it for quite some time by me either dropping off hints, or even some I’ve already told. This interview was supposed to be posted before Mr. Hush Weekend of Fear, but alas the world conspired against me, and it was delayed. Well now it is here for your viewing pleasure. I do hope you enjoy it as it has caused me many sleepless nights through the whole process. Prepare yourself…
“You’re so cool Brewster!”…Story Time with Stephen Geoffreys
Malice: This has been a while in the works, but I have to say it’s well worth the wait. I have with me today Stephen Geoffreys of Fright Night and 976-EVIL. Also more recently Mr. Hush and Emerging Past. Stephen, I just want to jump head first into this interview! What made you decide on acting?
Stephen Geoffreys: Well, it’s kind of been what I’ve wanted to do all my life since I was little. I think every kid has that fantasy life going on. With mine it was hyper… I was in my own little world. So I thought, “Why don’t I make money pretending.” So that’s what I decided to do. I went to a performing arts high school. I went to a college and graduate school and studied acting. When I got out, I was ready to dive in. I’ve been lucky! I’ve always had a singular desire to do what I really love. It’s been a lot of fun so far.
Malice: Your known well for your roles in Fright Night and 976-EVIL. However, you have been in a few other roles (Fraternity Vacation, The Chair). Do you have any favorite roles?
Stephen: I never categorize what I am. It’s like when you’re an actor, you get scripts and you either take them or you don’t. It’s really not anymore complicated than that. I just happened to have got hooked into “Fright Nights” and some other horror movies. But, it wasn’t really a conscious decision on my part to become a horror actor. Just if the part is good and the price is right I’ll take it.
Malice: Back when you were filming Fright Night, did you ever think that the movie would stand the test of time? That ‘Evil’ Ed Thompson would still be talked about today?
Stephen: I knew it would, but not to the extent it has. The very nature of movies is something you can watch over and over as long as the technical apparatus is available to watch them. It’s a good thing, as opposed to theater, when the curtain’s down it’s over. Film is forever. I would have never guessed… You know I would have never thought kids would come up and say”My Grandmother showed me this movie you were in!”It’s neat though, it’s really great!
Malice: Do you have any set memories from the movie? For example, how long did the make-up take?
Stephen: Yeah, it was an amazing test of patience to sit in a chair for hours for all the make-up and prosthetics to be applied. But, there was a lot of excitement involved. It was all part of it. I knew I was in great hands as far as the people doing the special effects. Just top of the line great special effects make-up people. It wasn’t to bad.
Malice: What about the contacts used? I’ve heard the special effects contacts used during that period were very painful.
Stephen: Yeah, about that. Around that whole time period, you know around Lost Boys, Fright Night, and when Michael Jackson did the “Thriller” video he had those eyes. They were made using these huge plastic, semi-circle things that they would just shove into your eye. I’m sure it was pretty dangerous. They said you were only supposed to wear them for a little while. Like fifteen twenty minutes at most. I ended up having to wear them for a while. Like the the scene where Peter Vincent thinks he’s waking up Charlie’s Mother and it’s me with the Raggedy Ann wig. I had those things in for at least an hour maybe two. So all the pain and anguish that came across on camera was about 80% to do with those contacts. Then when I did 976-EVIL about a year later, by then they came up with some new technique that they could use soft contacts. I wore them with that movie and they were fine. I think my eye got scratched for like six months after Fright Night wrapped. Talk about suffering for your art!
Malice: What ever happened with Fright Night 2? Why didn’t you reprise your role?
Stephen: I was actually obligated to play in the sequel. The offers for Fright Night and 976-EVIL came the same week. And they said they were going to be starting around the same time. There was no way I could be in both. I had to decide between the two, and I chose 976-EVIL. I would have done Fright Night 2 even though I didn’t particularly love the script. But yeah, that’s why that happened.
Malice: What’s your feeling on the Fright Night remake that’s on the horizon?
Stephen: The way it’s working now is, you take a movie that was successful and use the title. Make another movie, and hope for a really good first weekend and cash in on the notoriety. It’s all about the bottom line basically. You know, it’s a great compliment actually that Fright Night was good enough to be remade.
Malice: Moving along to 976-EVIL. I really feel that the movie doesn’t get the credit it deserved. I personally loved the film! What experience did it offer?
Stephen: Robert was great! We hung out while we were filming. The Highlight was working with Sandy Dennis. She played my mother in the movie. Great, great actress and an Academy Award winner. I’ve always admired her. So playing in front of the camera with her was a real honor. She was great and really funny! She really cracked me up. It’s very surreal, but you get it out of the way, and get down to business. You know everyone is there for the same reason, to make a good movie. I think 976-EVIL turned out pretty good.
Malice: Recently you have start becoming active again in acting. This includes a role in Dave Madison’s Mr. Hush (premiering this weekend at Mr. Hush Weekend of Fear). I’ve been following this movie, and I’m really impressed! How did you come across the role?
Stephen: David Madison, I met him on the set of another indy film, Emerging Past by Thomas Churchill. He was the producer, and I met him on the set. He offered a part on Mr. Hush. I read the script, I thought it was really good, and really liked it. So I did it! I’m really excited and I can’t wait to see it. I hope it really takes off. He wrote a great script and was a great director.
Malice: Is there anything you can tell us about your character “Stark”? What can we expect to see?
Stephen: I’m basically the side kick to the main bad guy. I’m like his little right hand man. Throughout the movie I try to cause as much trouble as I possibly can. I had a blast!
Malice: Let’s switch it up a little. I want to talk about you personally. What do you like to do in your spare time?
Stephen: I’m a runner. I run like twenty-five to thirty miles a week maybe more. I also read a lot. So Reading and running.
Malice: You play mostly Horror roles, but I’m sure that’s not the only films you watch, do you like any genre in particular?
Stephen: I really don’t have any one type of category. The types of movies I like are the good ones. If it’s good and entertaining, it really doesn’t matter what genre it is. I like to be entertained, that’s the bottom line.
Malice: You play a good prankster on film. Is that all acting or are you a prankster in “real” life?
Stephen: No, I’m pretty conservative and quiet. It just so happens I play a lot of characters that are like that for some reason. That’s not really who I am. You know that’s why it’s called acting. You act like something you’re not.
Malice: I’m going to take some time now and ask you some “Out-of-Hat” questions. A few months back I asked Dave Madison who would win between Edward Cullen and David from The Lost Boys. He said David, but David was no match for “Evil” Ed Thompson. So I ask YOU, who would win between “Evil” Ed and David?
Stephen: “Evil” Ed is pretty determined. I would have to say “Evil” Ed without a doubt.
Malice: Are you a theme park man or a beach kind of guy?
Stephen: Definately beach. Without a doubt.
Malice: Do you prefer Main stream Horror or B-Rated?
Stephen: Like I said before, if it’s good. If it’s entertaining. If it’s worth sitting for two hours and watching! There have been a lot of indy films that have been terrible and a lot of main stream that have been really good and visa versa. I don’t really categorize things that way.
Malice: I can’t tell you what a pleasure it was to finally get to talk with you Stephen, a real treat! Is there anything you would like to add to my readers and your fans?
Stephen: I’m getting back into making movies and doing plays. So, if you’ve got any scripts or whatever, send them to stephengeoffreys@yahoo.com or stephengeoffreys@gmail.com.
There you have it people! The masterful Stephen Geoffreys is back in acting! Check out Emerging Past and Mr. Hush for a little more of whats to come. That’s all for now Freaky Darlings, but stay tuned for lot’s coming to you soon. There’s more madness to come…you just wait!
Until Next Time, My freaky Darlings,
Malice Psychotik
Here Comes Thomas Churchill!
Here Comes Thomas Churchill!
Pamela Garret (played by Krista Grotte of Hershel Gordan Lewis’ The Uh-Oh Show and Brainjacked), a photographer for a busy newspaper company has just taken a life altering photograph.. After her boss, Cameron (Stephen Geoffreys of Fright Night, 976-Evil) hands her an easy assignment, she takes a photograph that will have her emerged into chaos. As she searches for help within her friend Dylan (Brooke McCarter from The Lost Boys) in a lost city filled with a dark mystery, in this insane situation she soon realizes that no one can help her. When trusting people around you is not an option, it’s her past that can bring her down. ..OK I said too much. Tony Moran (Carpenters Halloween 1 & 2)
, Edward X Young (The Green Monster, Mr Hush) and Mike Marino all have roles in the film. The film was a great project to work on…Paul and Lorie Weinroth of Chocolate Bunny Productions gave me total creative control in allowing me to bring what I wrote to life.
Malice: It looks like there are going to be a few hidden “Easter Eggs” (Example Steve Dash’s Character being named Det. Voorhees) Am I correct in assuming there are more?
Malice: As a writer I love finding out the little ideas that spark a story. What got you started on the idea for the movie?
Malice: I know it’s not out on DVD yet, but do you have any showings coming up on the Film Festival circuit?
Malice: Is there any date set for a DVD release?
Malice: Your also involved with a project I have been following lately, Mr. Hush. What is your take on the movie?
Malice: How did you come across Mr. Hush?Malice: You have another film announced too, Cold Plastic. What is that about?
Malice: Now I want to talk more about you, what got you into film?
Malice: One can only assume, when looking at your film history, that you are a horror fan. How long have you been with the genre?
Malice: What has been the thrill of your career thus far?
Malice: Jason Voorhees or Freddy Krueger?
Malice: The Crow or The Lost Boys?
Thomas: Wow…You know I will have to say The Lost Boys! Being I have Brooke McCarter (Paul in The Lost Boys) and G Tom Mac (The Lost Boys theme “Cry Little Sister”) are part of Emerging Past. So family stays with family…and Family is Forever.
Malice: “Family Guy” or “The Simpsons”?
Thomas: I love “The Family Guy”.
Malice: Alice Cooper or Marilyn Manson?
Thomas: Kenny G…just kidding…I like Gene Simmons!
Malice: Well that’s about all the time we have for today, Thom is there anything you would like to add before we finish?
Thomas: Yes…go to Emerging Past and Mr. Hush on Facebook, become a fan and suggest it to your friends as well. Go to my official website www.churchhillproductions.com, www.emergingpast.com, and www.mrhush.net for up to the minute news on our projects. Thank you very much.
I just want to say how awesome it has been getting to know everyone from these projects. You heard it here, make sure to check out Emerging Past at Spooky Empire’s Ultimate Horror Weekend in Orlando, Fl October 9th. If you’re not going to be there, hit it up at Mr. Hush: Weekend of Fear in Matamoras, Pa October 22nd-24th.Check out the Trailer below!
Until Next Time, My Freaky Darlings,
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
Encyclopedia Psychotika 