Category: Festivals

Director David Velduque co-wrote the short film Transition (Transición) with writers Ana Pizarro and Marco Laborda. Transition tells the story of an elderly trans woman, Angela, who lives alone, fearful of strangers and change. When the arrival of a new caregiver upends her reality, she struggles to come to terms with truth vs. fantasy. I… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2023 Film Review: Transition film from Spain debuts in the Shorts Fuse

How many times have you heard of someone like what someone else has, work, relationships, etc.? Not only like what someone else has but to the point of saying or demonstrating, they want it too. It is not unusual to learn that someone also takes extreme measures to access or secure the coveted “thing.” What… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2023 Film Review: What You Wish For

I was initially bewildered by the idea of “remaking” the Troma cult classic, The Toxic Avenger when it was first announced that it would open this year’s Fantastic Fest. As a fan of all kinds of cinema, my first reaction is normal. I am sure several fans of the original film currently feel this way,… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2023: THE TOXIC AVENGER

True crime, murder porn (as some call it), and serial killers, like train wrecks, mesmerize many. People seem fascinated by podcasts, shows like Dateline and Cold Case Files, and movies depicting the likes of Ted Bundy and Son of Sam and all those who came before and after. In line with public appeal, Strange Darling… Continue reading Fantastic Fest: Strange Darling – a Thriller filled with Surprises

Gems pop up unexpectedly at festivals. Sometimes more than anticipated. This year’s Fantastic Fest has several. My favorite so far is The Last Stop in Yuma County, starring Jim Cummings, for its quirky western (not a western) feel and well-crafted scenarios and characters. Writer/director Francis Galluppi creates a clever, crisp, and crafty situation that builds,… Continue reading Fantastic Fest: Last Stop in Yuma County – Not a Typical Western

The information I received for the horror film titled Beaten to Death states “Rating: Not Rated,” but there is no doubt in my mind to warn viewers that this film is not for the faint of heart, no matter how many horror films a viewer thinks they have seen. I have seen several horror films,… Continue reading BEATEN TO DEATH

Filmmaker Alex Kahuam’s psychological thriller Failure! had its World Premiere in London at this year’s Frightfest. It debuted at the Fantastic Pavillion at the Cannes Film Festival in May, where Alief picked up the worldwide rights. About the film: Failure! follows James (Ted Raimi – The Quarry, Ash v Evil Dead, Creepshow), who has a… Continue reading Frightfest Film Festival review: Failure!

Synopsis: A gripping psychological thriller that takes viewers through the depths of grief and its impact on mental health. Vivian Ashwood, a woman haunted by tragedy, spirals into an abyss of prescription medication and alcohol as she desperately tries to cope. Her world unravels when a mysterious figure appears in her home, blurring the lines… Continue reading Bibi at Cinequest Film Festival