Horror Anthology Breaks Conventional Boundaries

Read Time:3 Minute, 30 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
HeBGB TV
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Genre: Comedy, Horror
Year Released: 2022, 2023 Scream Team Releasing DVD
Runtime: 1h 18m
Director(s): Eric Griffin, Adam Lenhart, Jake Mcclellan
Writer(s): Eric Griffin, Adam Lenhart, Jake Mcclellan
Cast: Knucklehead, Curtis Proctor-Artz, Van Reiner, Willow Reiner, Michael Garland, Andrew Bowser, Mike Madrigale, Ian Sanchez, Adam Lenhart, Ellen Tibero-Schultz
Where To Watch: available now www.screamteamreleasing.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: This may be my favorite new yearly Halloween watch! (yes, I realize it’s December, but in the future!) Tuning into the HEBGB TV experience is like opening a treasure chest from the 80s/90s, filled with horror, whimsy, and nostalgia. Released in 2022, this film takes viewers on a journey far from the typical path of most horror anthologies. Directors Eric Griffin, Adam Lenhart, and Jake Mcclellan craft a delight that transforms an ordinary evening into an extraordinary one for two siblings. The opening news segment sets the tone, immersing viewers in a world reminiscent of vintage television but with a demonic twist.

HEBGB TV (by the way, it stands for “heebie-jeebie” TV) stands out with its creative commercial segments, turning ordinary ads into quirky, sinister vignettes that harken back to the nostalgic days of TV charm. These segments add a layer of dark humor, enhancing the film's narrative diversity.

In the heart of HEBGB TV, two children are transported to this world by a mysterious cable box. The film takes viewers on a humorous tour of strange, multidimensional programming led by the enigmatic Purple Guy, who balances whimsy and ominous mystery.

The film's anthology structure showcases a variety of story lengths and styles. Some segments, like the shopping channel parody, hit the mark with humor and wit. The movie skillfully knits multiple varied narratives into a coherent and captivating universe. The film's visual style and performances vividly bring to life the essence of the VHS culture. HEBGB TV is a distinctive programming mix with fun sketch comedy and horror, offering a unique cinematic adventure.

HEBGB TV also serves as a tribute to the unique children's TV shows of the 1980s. It cleverly combines the peculiarities of the era with a mix of programming and commercials, resulting in a humorous and occasionally eerie blend. Central to the film's plot are the two children encountering a mysterious package from a TV box that unleashes unknown terror. As the box captivates the nation, it reveals various content, from offbeat TV shows to whimsical commercials featuring diverse animation styles and cameos.

The film is a joint effort by Pennsylvania-based creatives Eric Griffin, Adam Lenhart, and Jake Mcclellan. Their diverse writing, directing, and producing talents culminate in a production echoing the analog aesthetics of the 80s and 90s, complete with commercials that feel authentic to the era with a twist. The film's subtle humor and ethereal ambiance enhance its unique charm, further enriched by its emphasis on queer themes. I just wish I had an old CRT TV to watch them on!

HEBGB TV is a captivating mix of meta-horror and eccentricity, appealing to fans of vintage horror. The film's vast array of segments provides a variety of entertaining moments.

In summary, HEBGB TV is an unconventional journey. While it may not appeal to all viewers, it's a must-watch for those who savor a blend of quirky and retro horror elements. HEBGB TV skillfully blends humor, horror, and nostalgia as a distinctive tribute to TV of a bygone era. It will resonate particularly with those fond of the era's TV programming, offering a unique experience to a niche audience seeking nostalgia with a modern twist.

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[photo courtesy of SCREAM TEAM RELEASING, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]