Beware: Demons Play Here!

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MOVIE REVIEW
Vampires And Other Stereotypes
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 1994, 2023 Visual Vengeance Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director(s): Kevin J. Lindenmuth
Writer(s): Kevin J. Lindenmuth
Cast: Bill White, Ed Hubbard, Wendy Bednarz, Laura McLauchlin, Mick McCleery
Where To Watch: available October 24, 2023; pre-order here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: When dusk descends on New York, VAMPIRES AND OTHER STEREOTYPES emerge, blurring lines between the paranormal in a thrilling clash against the encroaching darkness. This film is a plucky underdog in the indie horror landscape, gripping the audience with its unrefined magnetism and flair, even though it occasionally trips in the murky shadows it casts. Don’t get me wrong, this is a shot on video 90s horror film, so you need to set your expectations appropriately. However, where the film may lack some polish, it makes up for it by leaning into what it is.

Before I get into the review, I want to point out that Visual Vengeance may have the best movie packaging on the market. A handful of simple little things add to an excellent presentation for movie collectors. From the sheet of retro VHS stickers to the slipcover, the reversible artwork, and a small poster, they genuinely know what draws people to physical media for a presentation piece.

Kevin Lindenmuth, the film's director, doesn't just bend vampire myths; he shatters them, introducing a spectrum of demonic foes that keeps even the most seasoned horror buffs guessing. What this movie saves on budget, it splurges on the story — rich, captivating, and unpredictable. Here, clichés aren't recycled; they're reinvented, repurposed, and served with fresh surprises around every corner.

Part of the charm of VAMPIRES AND OTHER STEREOTYPES is their refusal to reveal their hand too soon. The cryptic nature of the evil forces at play might seem slightly confusing, but it layers the plot with a welcome complexity. However, even the boldest reaches of the genre can't wholly avoid familiar horror tropes. We're given a taste of the traditional — naive youth, infamous rituals, and otherworldly adversaries — but Lindenmuth navigates through familiar waters with a fresh sense of inventiveness that commands attention.

In this film, dialogue is not just a vehicle for the story; it's the driver. Comedy tries to elbow its way in, but the high stakes and sinister vibes dominate, even as the antagonists attempt to sprinkle in some dark humor.

The film offers a claustrophobic tension that demands viewers' attention and a keen eye for the eerie nuances. VAMPIRES AND OTHER STEREOTYPES overcome their financial hurdles by sheer will and creative enthusiasm. The film's technical aspects might expose its modest budget, but they add to its raw charm and showcase the early hallmarks of Lindenmuth's burgeoning talent.

While VAMPIRES AND OTHER STEREOTYPES may not be a genre trailblazer, it secures a spot in the hearts of indie enthusiasts. It's an unpredictable, delightfully odd journey into the abyss that captivates with its audacious narrative and passion despite a few hiccups. The movie's triumphs illuminate its flaws, engraving Lindenmuth's unique brand on indie horror and offering an unforgettably enjoyable and boldly gutsy cinematic experience.

Bonus Materials
– Region Free Blu-ray
– New director-supervised SD master from 1-inch tape
– Limited Edition Slipcase – FIRST PRESSING ONLY
– Over 7 Hours of new bonus content
– Commentary with Director Kevin Lindenmuth
– Commentary with Actor Mick McCleery and Director Kevin Lindenmuth
– Commentary with Tony Strauss of Weng’s Chop Magazine
– Director Kevin Lindenmuth Interview
– Actress Laura McLauchlin Interview
– Actor Mick McCleery Interview
– Actress Suzanne Turner Interview
– Actress Sally Narkis Interview
– Makeup Effects Artist Ralis Kahn Interview
– Special Effects Artist Scott Sliger Interview
– Photographer Sung Pak Interview
– Publicist Joe Mauceri Interview
– Behind the Scenes Image Gallery
– Kevin Lindenmuth Early Super 8 Films
– Original Trailer
– Visual Vengeance Trailers
– Six-page liner notes by Tony Strauss of Weng’s Chop Magazine
– ‘Stick your own’ VHS sticker set
– Collectible Folded mini-poster
– Reversible sleeve featuring original VHS art
– Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of VISUAL VENGEANCE, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #SAGAFTRAStrong