Linnea Quigley Shines in Nostalgic Horror Flick

Read Time:4 Minute, 28 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Scream Queen
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Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year Released: 2002, 2023 Visual Vengeance
Runtime: 1h 18m
Director(s): Brad Sykes
Writer(s): Brad Sykes
Cast: Linnea Quigley, C. Courtney Joyner, Kurt Levee, Emilie Jo Tisdale, Nova Sheppard, Jarrod Robbins, Nicole West
Where To Watch: available November 28, 2023; pre-order here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: As we explore the eerie depths of the horror genre, SCREAM QUEEN offers up a surprise starring role of the icon herself, Linnea Quigley, a beacon in the horror genre. Resurrected by Visual Vengeance, this film offers both long-time enthusiasts and new viewers a chance to experience Quigley's dramatic prowess. A well-known name in the world of horror, Quigley takes on the role of Malicia Tombs as we follow her story through a maze of on-set conflicts and sinister twists; SCREAM QUEEN is as much an ode to horror nostalgia as it is a showcase of thrills. The meta aspect of the film shines bright as this sub-genre horror film style has become even more popular in the present day.

In this rediscovered treasure, Malicia Tombs is an actress caught in a whirlwind of escalating tensions on a horror movie set. The plot thickens as she and her crew find themselves in a mysterious mansion haunted by an unseen menace. This is an intriguing experience, as the film restoration from a 480p master is still unmistakably shot on video. The charm of this filmmaking period makes someone either love or hate it.

Directed by indie horror maestro Brad Sykes in the late '90s and completed in the early 2000s, SCREAM QUEEN pays homage to the raw essence of Shot-on-Video slasher films while artfully weaving in elements of Italian Giallo. It's a satirical nod to the indie horror scene of the '90s, imbued with a flair of nostalgia.

Quigley's portrayal of Tombs is a brilliant fusion of terror and comedy. While the film's narrative follows a straightforward, predictable trajectory, it doesn't fail to captivate. Focusing on classic horror scenarios over intricate character arcs allows SCREAM QUEEN to shine simply. The self-aware treatment of genre staples adds a refreshing twist to the conventional horror narrative.

Despite its modest budget, SCREAM QUEEN manages to leave a lasting impression. Though constrained by screen time, Quigley's performance is a vibrant tribute to her horror film legacy. While not as striking, the supporting cast plays into the film's vintage atmosphere. The movie's practical effects are a testament to skillful filmmaking, overcoming financial limitations to deliver an engaging horror experience.

SCREAM QUEEN stands out in the horror landscape. It doesn't venture into uncharted narrative territories or delve deeply into character complexities but finds its unique place. The film celebrates horror, blending humor and suspense, and is a nod to classic cinema, appealing to die-hard Linnea Quigley fans and those who revel in the charm of old-school horror. As I often mention, a 2.5-star rating from me isn’t the death sentence it is from so many. For me, it’s the epitome of a film that falls right in the middle, one I didn’t love but one I didn’t hate. Many people take issue with my rating, but that’s the best thing about it; it’s mine.

SCREAM QUEEN is a portal to a forgotten era of horror filmmaking. Its mix of satire, reminiscence, and straightforward storytelling crafts an experience that's a respectful salute to a legendary figure in horror. It may not revolutionize the genre, but it undoubtedly enriches it, offering viewers a journey that's both a nostalgic walk down memory lane and a homage to the lasting impact of horror cinema. Visual Vengeance always leaves me psyched for their next title; I can’t wait to see what’s next! Not to mention that their presentation for their releases is at the top of the entire physical media world, with extra goodies in every release.

Bonus Materials
– All region Blu-ray
– New director-approved 480p SD master presented on Blu-ray from original tape elements
– Commentary with Writer / Director Brad Sykes
– Once Upon A Time In Horrorwood: Behind the Scenes Documentary
– Second Feature: Original Producer’s Cut of Movie
– New Linnea Quigley Interview
– Editor Mark Polonia Interview
– Behind The Scenes Image Gallery
– Linnea Quigley Image Gallery
– Original Script Selects
– Original Trailer
– Visual Vengeance Trailers
– Six-page liner notes by Tony Strauss of Weng's Chop Magazine
– Limited Edition slipcase by Rick Melton – FIRST PRESSING ONLY
– Limited Edition 'Series 2' Video Store Rental Card – FIRST PRESSING ONLY
– Collectible Linnea Quigley folded mini-poster
– ‘Stick your own’ VHS sticker set
– Reversible sleeve featuring original home video art
– Optional English subtitles

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[photo courtesy of VISUAL VENGEANCE, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]