FRIGHT FEST: DOCTOR SLEEP TAKES US BACK TO THE OVERLOOK

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! This year, let's travel back to The Overlook with Doctor Sleep!

In Doctor Sleep, we follow the continuing "adventures" of Danny Torrence (Ewan Mcregor). Years after his unhappy childhood at The Overlook, Danny still suffers from hidden trauma and struggles to cope with his powerful Shining ability. He turns to drink in an effort to numb everything away, and quickly becomes an alcoholic. It's not until he escapes to a tiny town in New England called Frazier that he finally summons up the courage to throw away the bottle once and for all. It's just in time too, for a young girl called Abra (Kyleigh Curran) has the shine too, and a ravenous gang of Shining vampires (called The True Knot) led by an alluring woman named Rose The Hat (Rebecca Ferguson), is hot on her trail, intent on turning her into their next meal. It's up to Danny to mentor Abra and protect her from those who would do them both harm.

Doctor Sleep has a difficult task in front of it. It has to both be faithful to its source material, while remaining a sequel to the horror classic. The Shining (the novel) is quite different from The Shining (the film). For starters, The Overlook burns down/explodes at the end of the novel...so there's that. Not to mention in the novel, the character of Jack Torrence isn't downright evil, but instead a good but deeply flawed man who battles with his demons, only to be swallowed up by them in the end. Happily, the film is able to make peace with both versions of The Shining. As far as an adaptation of the novel Doctor Sleep, it does a fine job. The first two acts are fairly faithful, and the third act is where it becomes something wholly unique and original. It's an above-average adaptation of a mediocre novel (though there are some issues with things it chooses to leave out. For example: We don't spend as much intimate time with The True Knot.).

Doctor Sleep schools us on how to properly use characters that appeared in a prior beloved classic. The film doesn't use de-aging technology, but instead casts actors that look similar to those seen in The Shining (Carl Lumbly portrays Dick Hallorann, Roger Dale Floyd portrays young Danny, and Alex Essoe of Starry Eyes fame portrays Wendy Torrance). All the actors cast look close enough to the original actors, and are believable in their roles while still putting their own slight spin on the characters. Alex Essoe and Carl Lumbly in particular impress. Alex Essoe is a more beautiful version of Wendy/ Shelly Duvall, and Lumbly looks and acts almost exactly like Scatman Crothers/Dick Hallorann. Henry Thomas (aka Elliot in E.T.) also shows up for a surprise role, and is in what might be the best scene in the entire film. He was downright unrecognizable, and was incredibly impressive. Not only did he look like the actor/character he was portraying, he also gave a similar but slightly different performance as well.  In the end, not having distracting CGI definitely aids in the believability of these characters and the actors' performances.

Ewan McGregor is well cast as adult Danny Torrence. It's not hard to see young Danny growing up into him. He has a slight pathos to him, and is very easy to root for. Kyleigh Curran as Abra is quite good as well. She adds a surprising menace to her character in certain scenes that really works, but is mostly a jovial but increasingly worried (due to her Shining and The True Knot)  middle school prodigy. Rebecca Ferguson is perfect as Rose The Hat, an incredibly sexy but increasingly dangerous and deadly woman who is the head of the True Knot. It's hard to take your eyes off her when she is on, and she manages to be sympathetic, frightening, and appropriately threatening.

As for the supporting cast, they all do fine jobs. Zahn McClarnon is great as Crow Daddy, Rose's second in command. He's pretty likable, despite being bad at his core and is one of the stand-outs of the supporting cast. Cliff Curtis does a fine job as Billy, a close friend to Danny and a conductor of a toy train. His character is a slightly different version of the Billy character from the novel (for starters, the Billy in the novel is much older), but is still someone you would want on your side during a tough time. Carel Struckyn (aka Lurch in the 1990s Addams Family movies and The Moonlight Man in Gerald's Game) is fine in his small role as Grandpa Flick. Jacob Tremblay is fantastic in his minor role as Bradley Trevor, a young kid who falls victim to The True Knot. It's incredibly hard to watch his murder, and his cries of pain and terror are super affecting. It's surprising to see him here, and in such a small role....but he absolutely nails it (Interestingly enough, in the novel Doctor Sleep, his character has the Measels which he passes on to The True Knot when they feast on him. The True Knot slowly begin to die off from the disease, which puts their backs against the wall and is ultimately why they decide to go after Abra with such gusto. This aspect is completely absent from the film though, and is sorely missed as it would have added a little bit to the proceedings.).

Don't walk into Doctor Sleep expecting a thrill-a-minute, terrifying horror film. Like the novel, there isn't a whole lot of forward momentum, and it's a fairly quiet, introspective movie. It's not boring, it's just pretty slow for the first two acts. It's really in it's third act where Doctor Sleep starts to shine (no pun intended), as character's fates are altered and we are re-introduced to The Overlook Hotel, which has been condemned and long-abandoned after the incidents of The Shining. This is when the film puts the pedal to the medal, and Doctor Sleep becomes something pretty thrilling as we are treated to what is essentially a fun and nostalgic haunted house maze inside the crumbling Overlook. The direction by Mike Flannagan, the production design by Maher Ahmad, the art direction by Richie Bearden, Austin Gorg, and Justin O'Neal Miller, and the set decoration by Gene Serdena are all superb. Doctor Sleep's Overlook looks exactly like the classic Overlook in The Shining (there's even a cool scene early on that replicates the office of Mr. Ullman, for no clear reason other than to give the audience some serious willies). It's just nice to re-visit a classic location, it's almost like coming home in a weird way. There's a lot of fun to be had inside The Overlook in Doctor Sleep, although there are some parts that border on feeling like a re-make. That said, it's nice to have the ol' girl appear for a final curtain bow and to get to explore her halls once again (the score by The Newton Brothers even resembles that of The Shining in odd moments, which is nice. The end credits even roll to the tune of Midnight, The Stars and You which is the same song that The Shining ends with).

Doctor Sleep ends on a satisfying, bitter-sweet note and closes out The Shining films in appropriate fashion. Doctor Sleep certainly won't win over everyone who sees it. Hardcore fans of Doctor Sleep (the novel) may be disappointed or frustrated with some of the changes made. Mega fans of The Shining (the film), may be unhappy with how few scares and chills this film has. So, your mileage may vary. All that being said, Doctor Sleep is still a mostly entertaining, fun, freaky film that is elevated to something somewhat greater due to its thrilling final act and it's superb performances from its large cast. It makes for an easy recommendation.

Doctor Sleep gets released Nov. 8 2019

3.5 STARS

And so ends another Fright Fest. Till next year, pleasant frightmares, ghosties and ghoulies!

FRIGHT FEST: DAYBREAK WILL GIVE YOU WHIPLASH

In Daybreak, we follow Josh Wheeler (Colin Ford) and his adventures after the apocalypse. After a biological nuke drops in Glendale, CA most of the adults are eviscerated and the ones that survive are turned into mindless zombie-esque cannibals. For some odd reason though, everyone under the age of 18 is unaffected and survives, inevitably splitting off into various different cliques/groups/tribes who all continually fight for control. Before the bomb, Josh was a kind-hearted loner who was madly in love with (and dating) high-school queen Sam Dean (Sophie Simnett). After the apocalypse, Josh is thriving in the new world, living it up in his swanky apartment that's stocked with everything he could ever want or need. There's only one problem: Sam is missing, and Josh has been desperately searching for her so he can make amends and maybe win her back over. He winds up at a deserted shopping mall where he teams up with jock-turned-pacifist samurai Wesley Fists (Austin Crute) and adorable but unhinged pre-teen psycho Angelica Green (Aylvia Alyn Lind). Together, they form their own clique/group/tribe, and set out to save Sam and rid post-apocalyptic Glendale from a dangerous cannibalistic madman named Baron Triumph who has some very big, bad plans for the new world.

All of our leads do superb jobs (though Angelica does become a little grating as the season rolls on). The stand-outs by far are Colin Ford as Josh and Sophie Simnett as Sam. They make a super-cute (and super ship-able) couple. Colin carries most of the weight of the show as our "hero", and does so exceedingly well. He is easy to root for, and hides some nuances that are appreciated and make him more than just an audience cypher. Sophie Simnett as Sam is super easy to fall for as she is both pretty and kind, but as the show continually teases throughout its 10 episode first season, she hides layers we aren't even aware of. Aylvia Alyn Lind as Angelica is the rare pre-teen psycho who is legitimately scary at times and always unpredictable. As I said previously though, her story just isn't as interesting as the other characters' stories are.  Austin Crates as Wesley Fists is great as a riff on the samurai with a strict code. He plays a tormented ex-jock who is trying to atone for past sins by assisting those in need of help and by swearing off violence. He's also gay, which plays a huge role in his story. It's nice to see a show that has a LGBTQ character as one of the heroes, and Wesley's story is one of the more interesting ones in Daybreak.

Daybreak also has a fantastic supporting cast. There's kind high school teacher turned crazy cannibal witch Ms. Crumble (Krytsa Rodriguez), super-woke principal Burr (Matthew Broderick) who genuinely cares for and would do anything to help his students, loser jerk Eli (Gregory Kasyan) who has claimed an abandoned shopping mall as his own, and Mad Max-esque villain Turbo (Cody Kearsley) who rules over the super violent Jocks and whom Wesley has some beef with. Each has their own stories to share, and each are equally interesting. Matthew Broderick in particular is a joy as Burr, and his story has some real twists and turns. Broderick is asked to juggle a lot here, and he mostly succeeds. Krysta Rodriguez as Ms. Crumble is surprisingly sympathetic and sad, her story has some nice reveals and surprises hidden inside it that make her character one of the more interesting and well-fleshed out ones you can find on Daybreak. Gregory Kasyan as Eli makes for a nice antagonist that is fun and funny, while hiding a touch of pathos behind his loser douche-bro facade. Cody Kearsley is also surprisingly likable, cool, and funny as a mostly-mute would-be villain. It's interesting that in Daybreak, even our villains are sympathetic and likable.

Daybreak hits the ground running like a kid jacked up on sugar, caffeine, and cocaine. It has a speedy, breathless momentum that it isn't quite able to maintain throughout its ten episode first season. The show is hyper-stylized, hyper-ADHD, and easily distracted (It's also consistently very funny). Most of the ten episodes aren't focused on the main plot of saving Sam and stopping Baron Triumph, but are instead dedicated to exploring all of our main and supporting character's back stories. This can get frustrating. It's appreciated to find a show that is so dedicated to its characters and their development (and to the art of expertly crafted and timed surprises, twists, and reveals), but it gets to the point where you may find yourself wishing they would just get back to the plot. There are A LOT of flashbacks, and each character has their own distinctive voice (for example: Josh is Ferris Bueller-esque. he constantly breaks the fourth wall to address the viewer and has a mostly laid-back attitude, while Wesley has The RZA narrate his back story like it's a ninja/samurai origin story). It can all feel like a little too much at times, but I'll always take a show that tries too hard and attempts to tackle a lot, over a show that doesn't try to do anything new and  is more than content to sit back and rest on its laurels.

Daybreak ends up being more of a mixed bag than anything else, with it's positive elements easily outweighing its negative and more frustrating ones. Season one ends on one helluva mic drop/surprise twist that may leave some feeling a little sad/disappointed and uncomfortable (It definitely doesn't end at all in the way you would hope or expect it to, introducing us to a potential new villain for season two. You gotta say this much for Daybreak, it's always challenging our notions/perceptions of who these characters really are).  Daybreak is a show that is fiercely dedicated to its characters, their development, and having a ton of fun. It certainly won't be for everyone, but you have to appreciate a show that is so fearless, ballsy and surprisingly nuanced. Daybreak is like the love-child of Mad Max, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Zombieland, and Detention (a little known indie-horror-comedy film). If you do decide to make the trek into Daybreak's vivid, insane post-apocalyptic world, throw away your Adderall, buckle your seat belts, and hang the fuck on...it's going to be a wild, bumpy, fun ride.

4 STARS

If there is a Season 2 (PLEASE GOD let there be a season 2), I'm thinking it might be better than Season One since there would (hopefully) be less flashbacks because we know all of our characters' stories, and so maybe they could focus more on plot next time around. 

It's also weird that the show references on occasion that High School is supposed to be the time where you figure out who you are. Maybe I'm alone here, but for me that time was College.

Daybreak compares itself to Arthurian legend at one point, a comparison that would be apt if it spent more time focused on plot instead of fleshing out every character (and their back story) that is on screen.

FRIGHT FEST: ARE YOU AFRAID OF THE DARK IS A TRUE THROWBACK

In Nickelodeon's limited series reboot of the hit 90s horror-for-kids tv show, Are You Afraid of The Dark?, we follow Rachel (Lyliana Wray) as she moves to a new town where she feels isolated and alone. It isn't long before Midnight Society members Graham (Jeremy Ray Taylor), Gavin (Sam Ashe Arnold), Louise (Tamara Smart), and Akiko (Miya Cech) notice her and induct her into their ranks. Rachel's recurring nightmares of a freaky figure named Mr. Top Hat (Rafael Casal, who previously starred in Blindspotting)); who presides over a sinister carnival dubbed The Carnival of Doom;  make the perfect fodder for her first scary story. Unfortunately, the next day the group awakens to find that The Carnival of Doom is actually real and has arrived in their town. As kids start to disappear, The Midnight Society realize it may be up to them to investigate and end Mr. Top Hat's evil reign.

The cast all do great jobs, with the stand outs being Sam Ashe Arnold as Gavin, Jeremy Ray Taylor as Graham, Lyliana Wray as Rachel, and Rafael Casal as Mr. Top Hat (Dean Israelite directs and does a stand up job. It's certainly better than his previous efforts: Battle L.A., Project Almanac and Power Rangers). Jeremy Ray Taylor shines as Graham,  who's super power is his love of all things horror. He is quite funny, likable and relate able. He's not one of the cool or popular kids in school, but he doesn't seem all that bothered by this, secure in his own skin.  Sam Ashe Arnold fits his role as the kind, inclusive, cool boy who Rachel harbors a crush on. They both have nice chemistry together, and it's easy to buy them as close friends and a couple. Lyliana Wray is well cast as the lead, managing to come across as strong despite her fears and insecurities (A good role model for young girls). Rafael Casal is a lot of fun as Mr. Top Hot, putting on a grand, impressive, cool, and at times twitchy performance. He is just about perfect in the villain role, to the point where you honestly don't want to see him defeated in the end. Casal is clearly relishing his role, and is guilty of mugging at times. That said, it's him and Jeremy Ray Taylor as Graham that easily emerge as the most memorable parts of this mini-series.

Are You Afraid of The Dark is sure to remind most of the made-for-tv-horror-for-kids movies they may have grown up with, films like The Scream Team, The Halloweentown films, Phantom of The Megaplex, Under Wraps, Don't Look Under The Bed, and Mom's Got A Date With A Vampire. This modern re-imagining easily joins the ranks of these cool little classics. It's nice to get a return to that style of film making, and Are You Afraid of The Dark resembles a throw back to those glory days.

In the end, it's hard not to be impressed by this modern update of Are You Afraid of The Dark. The setting of The Carnival of Doom is pretty darned cool, the villain Mr. Top Hot is imposing and fun, and the members of The Midnight Society are all likable and work well together. The mini-series is atmospheric, creepy and might scare young ones at times, but it's never quite enough to give them nightmares. Are You Afraid of The Dark is certainly one of the best made-for-tv-horror-for-kids films that's come out in a long, long time. It's definitely worth a watch for any horror fan, young or old.

4 STARS

FRIGHT FEST: ZOMBIELAND: DOUBLE TAP IS A BLAST TO THE PAST

the first Zombieland is a certified horror classic. It's sequel definitely has decent sized shoes to fill...is it up to the task?

In Zombieland: Double Tap we return to the United States of Zombieland ten years after the first film. Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) and Wichita (Emma Stone) are somewhat happily in a relationship and Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) is enjoying being a bad-ass while doubling as a flawed father figure to Little Rock (Abigal Breslin), who is more than ready to leave the nest. Long story short: Little Rock ends up hooking up with Berkely (Avan Jogia), a pretentious wanna-be musician, and together they run away. Furious and concerned, our group gives chase across Zombieland.

The first thing that was pretty great about Double Tap, was the zombies. It's been ten years,and the zombies have evolved. Now we have dumb zombies named Homers, stealthy zombies named Ninjas, and smart zombies named Hawkings. These new zombie types are nothing compared to the newest threat, a super-enhanced and evolved zombie that is alarmingly difficult to kill (They can take several head shots, dodge bullets, and just keep on coming pretty much no matter what). These baddies are called T-800s. All the new zombie types give the film a bit of a Left 4 Dead feel, one of the better zombie video games out there. It's a vibe that is both cool and appreciated. The zombie action, kills, and gore are still top notch and super groovy as well.

The talent both behind and in front of the camera is back. Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese are back writing Double Tap(They also wrote Deadpool and Deadpool 2. You can tell they have gotten better at writing since the first Zombieland). Ruben Fleischer returns as well to the directing chair after his middling Venom film. The script still sizzles most of the time, and the directing continues to be pretty darn good. This sequel still definitely feels like Zombieland.

 Of course, our four main leads are back in the saddle too, and their characters are pretty much exactly the same as we remember them. Tallahassee is still a hyper-aggressive male (and is obsessed with Elvis now instead of twinkies), Columbus is still faithfully following his rules and continues to be socially awkward (no worries, he is still a boss at kicking zombie ass), and Wichita is still deathly afraid of commitment. Watching this sequel and getting to spend more quality time with our group feels like coming home in a weird way.

Joining our leads is Zoey Deutch as Madison, a super hot, super dumb, and super sweet college girl who might prove to be trouble for Columbus' and Wichita's relationship. She easily steals some of the scenes in the film, and is consistently hilarious. It's kind of hard not to fall in love with her. Along for the chaos are Luke Wilson as Albuquerque and Thomas Middleditch  as Flagstaff, odd mirrors of Tallahassee and Columbus, respectively. They are essentially glorified cameos, but damned if their screen time isn't super entertaining and funny (They also star is one of the most memorable sequences in the film. You'll know it when you see it). Rosario Dawson appears as a love interest for Tallahassee, although she really acts as more of a deus ex machina in the film.

Zombieland: Double Tap feels very much like the first film, in a good way. That said, it does repeat a few things from Zombieland. Tallahassee has an obsession, Little rock and Wichita run away with the group's car, Wichita leaves a poor excuse of a note, there is a celebrity cameo, and there's a few set pieces throughout plus a big one at the end (although Double Tap doesn't quite nail the ending. Zombieland's ending was so cool and perfect, that it would be almost impossible to beat, but you can't fault Double Tap for trying).

Zombieland: Double Tap doesn't do much different from it's predecessor.  Unlike it's zombie antagonists...it hasn't exactly evolved. It's a film that takes us all back to 2009, a simpler time. Honestly, it's not a negative in any way. Sometimes it's nice to see a film that knows what it is, knows what works, and knows what doesn't work. It's the rare film that is completely comfortable in its own skin. The talent in front of and behind the camera is still strong, the film is still knee-slappingly hilarious most of the time (Very few of the jokes fall flat), and it still has a good heart at its core. Zombieland: Double Tap is a film about family, and finding home in the family you choose. It's a sweet message that resonates surprisingly well. Zombieland: Double Tap is the rare sequel that is every bit as good as the original. Buy a ticket and buckle your seat belt, because it's time to nut up or shut up. This is Springs, signing off from Zombieland.

3.5 STARS

Make sure you stay for the mid-credits scene!!!!

FRIGHT FEST: LET'S GET LOST IN THE TALL GRASS

Man, when Netflix hits it out of the park, they REALLY hit it out of the park.

In The Tall Grass is the latest Stephen King film, based on a novella he wrote with his son Joe Hill on Oct. 9 2009 in Esquire magazine (The film varies a great deal from the novella). In it, we follow close siblings Cal (Avery Whitted) and heavily pregnant Becky (Laysla De Oliveira). Becky has just left boyfriend Travis (Harrison Gilbertson, who looks remarkably like Emile Hirsche), and is on her way with Cal to give her baby to a family in need of a child. After a quick stop by a field of grass to throw up (morning sickness), Becky hears a child calling for help  deep in the grass. Becky and Cal  quickly venture into the grass to help, only to be immediately separated and lost themselves. Once in the grass, they meet a family consisting of Ross (the father, played by Patrick Wilson), Natalie (the wife, played by Rachel Willson), and Tobin (the son. played by Will Buie Jr.) who are also lost and separated from each other. Later, Travis shows up looking for Becky, claiming she has been missing and wants to make amends. Unfortunately, there is a large rock with strange powers in the grass, and Ross seems to have gone mad from its power and has started to worship it (even the grass seems oddly alive and ready to worship the rock).  It's up to Travis to attempt to lead the remaining group out of harms way and back to safety.

In The Tall Grass is directed and written by Vincenzo Natali, who previously directed Cube, Splice and Haunter (He also wrote Cube and Splice) . This film seems right up his alley, and he thrives within the grass, managing to do some pretty mind-blowing and mind-warping things. Oh yes, this film definitely messes with your mind and keeps you on the edge of your couch for the entirety of its run time (It also feels more well-formed and complete than the novella it's based on). Every actor is well cast and impresses, although the best of the bunch are Harrison Gilbertson as Travis and Patrick Wilson as Ross. Gilbertson is immensely likable and easy to root for as our "hero", and Patrick Wilson is terrifying and creepy as our "villain". Travis is pretty intelligent and sympathetic. We root for him to overcome the enormous odds that are stacked against him, and indeed he might not make it out of this alive. Wilson plays against type here and absolutely nails his role as the father who has lost his mind and has taken to hunting down the remaining members of the group, with the intent to either murder them or force them to touch the rock so they too can feel its power (Oh yes, this film is definitely talking about religion, and maybe even faith healing in a weird way).

My only real complaint is that there is a good deal of CGI here, and some of it is painfully obvious, though it definitely adds to the surreal-ness of the whole film and helps to further establish the tone, atmosphere and feel of the movie. In The Tall Grass seems to be made on a smaller budget, but this doesn't hurt the film, instead adding to its odd charm. With a great script, a great cast/great acting, and a great director, In The Tall Grass is yet another horror film worth remembering this year. It's dark (as in tone), freaky, scary, atmospheric, smart, clever and memorable. It's an easy recommendation this Halloween season.

4 STARS

FRIGHT FEST: HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS 29

Hello everyone, this is your ghost host with the most most, back again for my review of the ultimate Halloween event: Halloween Horror Nights 29. After missing last year's event, I made a point not to miss this year's. So, how was it compared to other year's? Is HHN still the scariest and most fun or is it starting to sag just a little? Let's delve right in and find out!

SCAREZONES

VANITY BALL

"Beauty is pain. Literally. In the streets of Hollywood, your flesh becomes the canvas as blade wielding artists slice up willing participants into horrific living works of art. Here, going under the knife takes on a whole other meaning."

I didn't get to spend a whole lot of time in this zone. It was my last zone of the night, and I walked through when it was fairly empty. The costumes and makeup I saw were pretty nice, and the whole zone felt fierce (in an LGBTQ way). I sensed that this was a pretty active, fun zone. There were mini-stages set up throughout wit doctors either operating on patients or preparing to operate, throughout the zone patients wondered, waiting to pounce. It also had a runway with an announcer, although it wasn't being used when I traversed the zone (likely due to it being so late). I honestly would have enjoyed walking through the zone when it was more alive, but I still had fun in it nonetheless.

4 STARS (8/10)

ANARCH-CADE

"An 80s-inspired arcade has taken over Avenue of the Stars. At first glance, you may think it's a party. However, you quickly learn that "Game Over" means a permanent end for you. A gang of neon slashers are out to play and this is one game you won't want to lose." 

This may be one of the better zones to take place in Avenue of the Stars. It's not scary, but it sure was fun and cool, with some very striking costumes. There was bright neon (lights and costumes) everywhere, lasers (that beam above the zone like a wave), and arcade consoles. The most impressive characters were the female nanchuck wielding stilt-walkers. Always fun to walk through.

3.5 STARS (7/10)

ZOMBIELAND: DOUBLE TAP

"It’s time to brush up on those rules of survival. Based on the hit film and its upcoming sequel, this scare zone puts you in the middle of the United States of Zombieland. The infection has spread and bloodthirsty zombies are everywhere. The most important rule to remember: Always double tap."

This zone looked cool just from pictures alone, however walking through it was a different story. It's set in Waylon's Pacific Treasures, the amusement park from the first film (complete with a faux drop tower ride). Everything was too spaced out, and it all just felt dead/empty. (I got to walk through it numerous times). The props, sets, and characters were cool (there was even a zombie Bill Murray, complete with gold club). It seemed like the NYC area was too big for it, and the designers just didn't know how to properly utilize the space. Very disappointing and likely the weakest zone of the night. 

2.5 STARS (4/10)

ROB ZOMBIE HILLBILLY DELUXE

"You know his music, now it’s time to live it. Step into the heavy metal horror of Rob Zombie’s music and imagery in this pulse-pounding scare zone. From otherworldly beings to brutal maniacs, you’ll come face-to-face with his twisted creations as the music cranks to a frenzy."

Now THIS was a scarezone. Plenty of good scares, top-notch theming, killer costumes, and impressive props/sets. The theme here is you are walking through various Rob Zombie music videos (like Dragula and Living Dead Girl, for example), with characters, sets and props from the music videos interspersed throughout. I got to walk through the zone 3 times, and always wanted to just sit and enjoy the atmosphere for a good long while (helped that there were scantly clad hot girls dancing on tall platforms. One slowly bent over, presenting her ass to guests). The scareactors all seemed to love the camera and love being in the zone (I would have to guess they were fans of Rob Zombie too). Complete with copious amounts of fog and Rob Zombie music blaring over the loudspeakers. Is there anything cooler than walking through a scarezone while Dragula or Super Beast (Just to name two) set the mood. This was easily my favorite zone of the night. 

5 STARS (10/10)

VIKINGS UNDEAD

"We’re all familiar with the brutal Viking warriors. It’s terrifying enough thinking about facing them alive. Now picture facing them as the undead. They have risen and laid siege to Central Park with an onslaught of gore. Bloodlust never dies."

This was the best themed zone of the night. The Central Park area is overrun with spooky hanging lanterns and ghostly, ethereal lighting. The vikings were cool (plus what looked like tree creatures on stilts), but the sets/props were the real star (especially the blood eagle!!!!). Central Park rarely if ever disappoints. Another zone I likely could have spent all night in.

5 STARS (10/10)

HOUSES

GRAVEYARD GAMES

"In the Ascension Parish Cemetery, it’s normal to find teens playing amongst the tombstones. You’ll find yourself witnessing the repercussions of the disrespectful antics of two teens who have awakened the spirits of the dead. As you roam through the cemetery, you’ll wind through dark mausoleums and decaying piles of coffins."

"Ghosts of every shape and form will rise from the tombstones to exact their revenge as you try to escape the maze of crumbling tombstones and mausoleums. Skeletal beings, ghastly apparitions and vengeful spirits will try to drag you to the grave. And in the end, you’ll find out what happened to those who set out to deface the cemetery."

This house was essentially the spiritual successor to Winter's Night from 2011. There was a fantastic variety of effects and scares, some were absolutely effective, beautiful, impressive and jaw-dropping. The house was lengthy, but not super-scary (My only real complaint would be that it needed some chilly gusts of air and falling snow throughout). I'd say it was more-so atmospheric, creepy and gorgeous (The theming, MY GOD THE THEMING! Loved the pitch dark room, the hallway with the talking mini-statues, and the final room with the glowing statue, just to name a few). Wish I could have gone through it several more times, but rest assured this house raised the bar on what you could experience inside a haunted house. A definite DO NOT MISS!!!

5 STARS (10/10)

US

"Are you ready to enter the shocking reality of Academy Award-winning filmmaker Jordan Peele and Universal Pictures’ global horror hit Us?"

"In this new haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights, you will walk through the Wilson family beach house and Santa Cruz Pier, where you might spot a familiar character outside of the Fun House. You’ll also venture through the unnerving tunnels that stretch for miles deep below America and come face-to-face with “The Tethered” – a group of terrifying doppelgängers of every living man, woman and child in the country. You’ll quickly discover that you are your own worst enemy."

"Follow in the footsteps of Adelaide Wilson as she experiences a horrifying and traumatic encounter with her tethered double, Red. Watch her face off with her menacing mirror image in a deadly dance with a fatal ending."

"As you venture deeper through the haunted house, you will be transported to modern-day, and witness “The Tethered” rise-up from their underground labyrinth, ready to take on their privileged upperworld counterparts – determined to enact their plan of murder and revenge."

"Prepare to run for your life, as there is no escaping yourself."

This house was easily the best IP house of the night. Very creepy, and pretty scary. There aren't many people jumping out at you, instead you'd pass by a person who would stand perfectly still and then, on a music cue, would suddenly strike out at you. I loved how you started out walking down a path with dark curtains on both sides, bright multi-colored lights strung high-above, while "I Got 5 On It" played (And all this was before you reach the facade). It definitely felt like you were walking through the film. This was the only house to use one of my favorite effects: a room full of mannequins, with some real people hidden amongst them. A fantastic house, and another one you would do well not to miss if you saw and loved Us (ALso, we never encounter our own tethered, just the tethered from the film, mostly).

4 STARS (8/10)

KILLER KLOWNZ FROM OUTER SPACE

"Go beyond the mayhem and madness of last year’s wildly popular scare zone and step right up for an entire haunted house experience based on the cult classic film, Killer Klowns from Outer Space. This new experience will feature a gaggle of new characters including the baby Klowns, Boco, and Klownzilla, as well as new scenery like the Klowns’ circus-tent spaceship, and the cotton candy cocoon storage room where they keep their victims."

"Throughout the house your sense of fear will be triggered by your sense of smell as you encounter strong whiffs of familiar fairground fare like sweet cotton candy, stale buttery popcorn and ice cream. Don’t be fooled though, these otherwise pleasant aromas are a sign of the murderous gang of klowns that awaits you as you move from scene to scene."

"Try to evade them or you’re likely to end up captured in one of their cotton candy cocoons and doomed to a terrible fate. There will be no escaping the big teeth of the Big Top."

This house was more fun and silly than scary. You walk through recreations of scenes from the film along with brand new rooms that replicate the atmosphere of the movie. The Klownz look exactly like those seen in the movie, and are perfectly mischievous and playful. My favorite scene had to be the enormous Klownzilla puppet/animatronic (quite impresive). While I definitely enjoyed my time in the house, it was still  the weakest houses at the event this year, though it certainly wasn't bad in any means.

3 STARS (6.5/10)

GHOSTBUSTERS

"In this haunted house, you’ll be transported to the streets of New York as the rift between worlds opens, releasing ghoulish spirits, hideous specters and ectoplasm-dripping phantasms in every shape and size. Come face-to-face with the voracious Slimer, the all-power Gozer the Gozerian, Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man and more."

"Peter, Ray, Egon and Winston will have to save the day as these paranormal creatures materialize in unexpected places – but will their proton packs be enough?"

Another house that was more fun than it was scary (I mean, I even got to get Winston to hi-five me at the end!). Like the other film based IPs, you walk through recreations of scenes from the film. There were plenty of impressive ghost puppets throughout that perfectly replicate the types of ghosts you would see in the film (Yes, including Slimer). My favorite rooms would have to be the opening library hallway (where Venkman flings slime everywhere in the film), the Ghostbusters firehouse (complete with Janine on the phone), and the Gozer rooftop. It's just a joy to get to walk-through one of the greatest films of all time, and rub elbows with all your favorite characters (including Rick Moranis!). That said, it was still one of the weaker houses at the event this year.

3 STARS (6.5/10)

YETI: TERROR OF THE YUKON

"From the evil geniuses (they paid me to say that) who brought you Attack of the Swamp Yeti in last year’s grindhouse-themed Slaughter Sinema house comes a frightening new take on the fear-inducing folklore of the wild Yeti. But beware, because this experience will trade B-movie scares for bloodthirsty terror that will send you running in the opposite direction. The snows will be red with blood in the Yeti: Terror of the Yukon haunted house coming to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights this year."

"Deep in the remote tundra of the Yukon, loggers and trappers seek refuge from the frigid grip of an arctic blizzard. But out in the darkness, a terror lurks far more dangerous than the deluge of snow and ice. These unfortunate souls have intruded into a territory that is haunted by their worst nightmares. Enter a logging camp that’s been torn apart, floors caked with snow, bones and gore.  Right outside, screams are frozen on the faces of those who fled the towering monsters only to succumb to the elements. But there is no escape from beasts as brutal as the winter."

"Just when you thought the only thing to fear was the elements, an icy terror will descend over you. Cringe at the trail of blood leading to caves none have lived to see. As you enter the labyrinth of caves, you’ll hear the screaming echoes of those who couldn’t escape the inevitable. If you survive long enough to see the end, you’re likely to find the remains of those who came before you and meet their same demise. You’re in Yeti territory now. They’re stone cold vicious and will stop at nothing for a taste of blood. If the cold doesn’t get you, they will."

The only house this year to be consistently chilly throughout. Very well-themed with some cool scares, scenes, and Yeti's (along with some Canadian logger and trappers who are fighting back or fleeing). We travel through a camp, eventually making way into and through the Yeti's lair. The house was one of the ones that tries to scare you. I love the legend of the Yeti/Abominable Snowman, so this one was right up my alley. Not one of my favorite houses of the night, bit certainly one of the better ones (Gotta love the Yeti that rips his arm through a man's chest, and one that lurks high above and screams at you in it's icy caverns).

4 STARS (8/10)

DEPTHS OF FEAR

"If you have a fear of water and what lies beneath, your skin will crawl with this new haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights. Depths of Fear mixes all the elements of the unknown with underwater elements, monstrous creatures and a countdown to a disastrous fate."

"The workers of a deep-sea mining company have found themselves in a dire situation. They’ve delved too deep and encountered a parasitic race of creatures that turn out to be deadly. Panic ensues as you find yourself encountering infected miners and acidic creatures. The pressure builds as the self-destruct sequence counts down to the inevitable implosion of the facility."

"As you venture further into the depths, you’ll encounter the creatures known only as the “Mouthbrooders.” Picture being trapped in a claustrophobic mining installation underwater with a countless number of these slithering monsters. Your worst nightmares will come to life as these fiends spew flesh-eating acidic eggs at human hosts, and you witness miners being driven mad by the infection."

Another one of the houses that tries to be scary. The theme and sets are very neat, and I LOVED how the further in you go, the more and more chaotic things get (There's even a nift video in the first room that sets things up). It's clear that this facility is starting to break down all around you due to the "Mouthbrooders". The design of the creatures is quite cool, but we only get a few of them (fine by me, this tactic was pretty effective). Mostly we get assaulted by the unfortunate victims of the creatures. I was expecting to get wet in this house, but never did (though there are some neat water effects used throughout. This was a lengthy house, and it definitely worked more than it didn't, making it another one of the better houses of the night

4 STARS (8/10)

UNIVERSAL MONSTERS

"Terror is about to be unleashed with Universal Pictures’ iconic Universal Monsters coming to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights."

"In this all-new haunted house the world’s most terrifying monsters unleash havoc – thirsty for anything and everything in their paths. As you try to escape to safety, you’ll step into each monster’s domain – but beware – they refuse to let anyone get out alive…"

"Come face-to-face with Dracula in his gothic castle, the Wolfman in a dark Bavarian forest, and the man-made monster within Dr. Frankenstein’s lab. And if you survive them, you still may encounter the vicious Creature of the Black Lagoon, the ancient evil of the Mummy and more."

FINALLY, the Universal Monsters get the proper treatment at HHN. This house is a re-imagining of the ones who started it all while still staying true to their fundamental roots. This house was another lengthy one, and felt like classic HHN all the way. Innovative scares (Gotta love the Hunchback/bell tower scare. It looks like there is a dummy swinging from a bell. All you can see is his feet....then it's revealed it's a real scareactor as he drops down to scare you), fantastic designs, an immersive environment (you get to travel through each Monster's world including Mummy's crypt, Frankenstein's lab, Phantom's secret lair, Gill Man's swamp, and Quasimodo's bell tower among others). The facade is a mausoleum with statues of each Monster outside as rain pelts you), and plenty of freaky rooms (There's even a short mirror maze in Phantom's room that is not unlike the mirror maze found in the classic 1925 Phantom of The Opera. The final room of the house has a very short ceiling so it feels like you almost have to duck/bend down as you walk through). The house was absolutely perfect in every way, I walked out grinning from ear to ear (It's also very scary).

5 STARS (10/10)

NIGHTINGALES: BLOOD PIT

"Ancient Rome is suffering its worst drought in centuries. The ruthless emperor has declared the gladiatorial games to continue nonstop until the rains return. The gruesome bloodshed of the games is horrifying enough, but then come the creatures."

"As the blood soaks into the earth, the nightingales feed on the dead and dying. The nightingales are a grisly race of creatures that have been here since the dawn of time. You may think you’re familiar with their past feeding frenzies, but you haven’t seen them like this. You’ll try to survive alongside the gladiators as the ravenous nightingales tear into their victims and notice that fresh blood has come into their midst…"

This is a sequel house to 2011's Nightingales Blood Prey. Throughout the house, we travel through the bowels underneath the Roman Colosseum as the Gladiators (some dead, some dying, some preparing for gladiatorial combat) have to fend off a new threat: The Nightingales, drawn there by the scent of the dead and dying. The whole house smells like rotting human flesh and blood (I'm not kidding the whole damn house smells just pungent in a bad but undeniably effective way. If you are sensitive to smells, maybe you should sit this one out). The new design of the Nightingales aren't bad, but still aren't as cool and impressive as the originals. The house also has one of the best facades of the night (It's the entrance to the Colosseum, complete with a body on stakes, and a nightingale feasting on a dying horse. It's outdoors). Definitely one of the most impressive, and one of the scarier houses of the night (loved how in the first room a gladiator and  had a stare down, with him eventually nodding at me out of , what I assume was, respect). A fantastic house, and undeniably one of the better sequel houses I've seen at the event.

4.5 STARS (9/10)

STRANGER THINGS

"This year, you’ll experience an all-new haunted house where you will travel back to the small town of Hawkins, Indiana and walk-through some of the most terrifying scenes from Stranger Things 2 and 3."

"Not only will you come face-to-face with snarling Demodogs, but you will also make your way through iconic scenes and locations, from Chief Hopper’s cabin to the Starcourt Mall."

"And the best part? This new version of the Stranger Things haunted house is also coming to our sister park, Universal Studios Hollywood. The haunted houses on both coasts will parallel the hit show as it leaps forward to 1985."

Most of the house is scenes from Season 2, with some scenes from Season 3 sprinkled throughout near the end. The scenes in the upside down are undeniably effective (complete with falling ashes) and feels like you are really in the upside down. I also loved the arcade, the cabin from Season 3, and Starcourt Mall from Season 3 (complete with the most impressive puppet in HHN history: a gigantic mind-flayer, with a head that turns from side to side. Absolutely Boss!!! Apparently it takes 3 puppeteers to animate the darned thing). A very impressive house that effectively feels like you are in the world of both seasons. A definite must-do for fans of Stranger Things.

4 STARS (8.5/10)

HOUSE OF 1000 CORPSES

 "This fall, you’ll discover firsthand why this house is built on horror. Come face-to-face with the psychotic Firefly family and their collection of blood and gore. Watch “The Legend of Doctor Satan” come to life right before your eyes. Keep a lookout for the latest addition to Captain Spaulding’s Museum of Monsters and Madmen, Fish Boy! And if you’re lucky, you’ll escape the house as fast as a rabbit, minus the fluffy bunny costume and tragic ending."

This was my most anticipated houses of the year, and while it wasn't top house of the night...it certainly wasn't disappointing. Starting outside at the faithfully recreated facade of Captain Spaulding's Museum of Monsters and Madmen (Keep a look out for a cameo from Bill and Ted's phone booth), you can tell the designers of the house are HUGE fans of the film and went to great effort to get everything just right. From the gas station/museum interior, to the Firefly house, to the caverns of Dr. Satan's lab...everything is there (except for scenes from the Murder Ride. This is explained because the rest of the house after the first scene is supposed to be the Murder Ride. It's different, but oddly works). We get to rub elbows with Dr. Satan, Grampa, Mama Firefly, Otis, Tiny, Captain Spaulding, Dr. Satan's hulk of an assistant (very freaky), Dr. Satan's victims, and Rufus. I can imagine that people unfamiliar with the film would be lost and confused, but die-hard fans (like myself) will undoubtedly be tickled pink. A damn good, faithful, and fun house that perfectly captures the tone, feel, environment and sets of the film (You even exit through the famous Murder House exit). Another one of the better houses of the night.

3 STARS (6.5/10)

SHOWS

HALLOWEEN MARATHON OF MAYHEM

"Grab a bucket of popcorn and get ready as the lagoon lights up with iconic scenes from Netflix’s Stranger Things, Ghostbusters, Universal Monsters and Killer Klowns from Outer Space. This new show features a blend of fountain-based media, state-of-the-art technologies and special effects in a new way. This is one 80’s nightmare you won’t want to miss."

I was expecting to be blown away by this show, and I honestly wasn't. That said, it was certainly very cool , fun, and impressive. Scenes and music from Stranger Things, Us, Ghostbusters, Killer Klownz, and Universal Classic Monsters are featured along with some nifty water jets/fountains (that shoot up pretty high), water screens, lasers, and projection effects (used for some of the buildings in the park. The show lasts a total of ten minutes and is an easy recommendation. You should likely get there at least 15 minutes in advance so you don't miss the cool 5 minute pre-show. 

3 STARS (6.5/10)

RIDES

FAST AND FURIOUS SUPERCHARGED

I had heard a lot about how terrible this attraction was, but still had to experience the suck-age for myself. First off: The positives. The warehouse queue is very cool, lengthy and realistic. I loved the Party Bus theme for our vehicles (So funny! A party bus with no drinks). The alley scene with the cars is pretty nice, the beginning tunnel scene is effective and cool (Couldn't tell if we were really moving or if it was just an effect ala Earthquake/Disaster) and I like how the 360 scene has a screen in front of our bus (it really helps to cement the illusion that we are traveling from Point A to Point B). All that said, the 360 scene is way too short, the graphics are bad, there is no climax/resolution, and we start at what appears to be  night during the first few scenes before transitioning quickly to daytime during the 360 scene (plus apparently, the 360 scene takes place in LA while the queue is in San Francisco). So yeah, it's not a good ride but I wouldn't exactly say it's terrible. There are definitely aspects of it I appreciated so I wouldn't say it's a complete wash. I'd say I feel lukewarm to it overall. It's just ok (fun to laugh at, definitely). I would likely ride it again.

2 STARS

SUMMARY

So, overall HHN 29 is not as scary as previous years. The focus this year is definitely more so on fun and having a good time than it was on scaring you. While this was a little disappointing, I still loved the event. There wasn't a bad house in the bunch. I also got to Rip Ride Rockit twice in a row (once in the front seat), and I got to do Transformers (which is still my favorite ride in the park). I also got to catch up on F&F. Hopefully they pull out all the stop for next year's 30th anniversary and put together something scarier and freakier than this year's event....but I was still more than satisfied with my experience this time (Overall I'd give HHN 29 4 STARS). Till next time, this is your ghost host with the most most signing off from scare central. Pleasant nightmares!

SCAREZONE RANKINGS

1. Rob Zombie's Hillbilly Deluxe (5 STARS)

2. Vikings Undead (5 Stars)

3. Vanity Ball (4 Stars)

4. Anarch-Cade (3.5 Stars)

5. Zombieland: Double Tap (2.5 Stars)

HOUSE RANKINGS

1. Graveyard Games (5 Stars)

2. Universal Monsters (5 Stars)

3. Nightingales: Blood Pit (4.5 Stars)

4.  Us (4 Stars)

5. House of 1000 Corpses (4 Stars)

6. Stranger Things (4 Stars)

7. Depths of Fear (4 Stars)

8. Yeti: Terror of The Yukon (4 Stars)

9. Ghostbusters (3 Stars)

10. Killer Klownz (3 Stars)

(I am honestly torn on which house is better: Graveyard Games or Universal Monsters. Both are phenomenal houses in different but similar ways. Very hard choice).

FRIGHT FEST: JOKER CONJURES UP SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL

The director of The Hangover Trilogy, Old School, Road Trip, War Dogs, Starsky and Hutch, School For Scoundrels,  and Due Date brings us....Joker. In all seriousness though, this film is nothing to laugh at.

In Joker, we follow Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix), a down-trodden, unlucky, and mentally unstable clown-for-hire in the gritty and crime-filled city of Gotham in the late 70s/ early 80's. After Arthur loses his job and is assaulted by a group of young, well-to-do businessmen on the subway, it all proves too much for him. His violent, reactive act of self-defense ignites a series of riots and a class war against the rich. Arthur delves deeper into his own dark history, unraveling hidden truths as his mind continues to slowly unravel, all the while he continues to slowly grow into an icon for the downtrodden in Gotham.

Todd Phillips, up until now, has only dabbled in comedies with mostly middling results, the exceptions being Old School and The Hangover. Watching Joker, it's easy to forget that his claim to fame was making people laugh.  He directs the hell out of Joker, and co-wrote the screenplay with Scott Silver (who previously penned 8 Mile, The Fighter, and The Finest Hours). The script sizzles with an electric, biting energy. The cinematography (by Lawrence Sher) is great. The film looks appropriately ugly, gritty, and beautiful. The score (by Hildur Guonadottir) is subtle and haunting. The real gems behind the scenes though remain Phillips and Silver, who made a film that not only will stick with you long after the credits roll, but amazingly, also has something to say.

 Joker is an angry, barbaric yawp (a yawp is a hoarse cry or scream). It's angry at society, how people treat each other, the attitudes of the rich, and the state of the mental health system, among other things. There isn't really any commentary, though. The film just points at all these terrible things and then makes the case for how people's actions/inactions lead directly to Arthur's ultimate devastating/freeing transformation. Aren't those who looked the other way, ignored him, or didn't take his cries for help seriously just as complicit /guilty as those who actively beat the crud out of him? Maybe we all have a role to play in the creation of everyday villains.

The main draw of the film is getting to see a well-known actor put his own spin on the Clown Prince of Crime. Joaquin Phoenix is phenomenal as Arthur Fleck. He starts out as a seriously depressed man who is deeply troubled and hurt by what he sees every day and the current state of his city. He feels helpless, ignored, and invisible...like his life has no meaning or purpose (He even writes in his joke journal "I hope my death makes more cents than my life".). It doesn't help that he is continually shit on by his co-workers, his boss, his psychiatrist, random delinquents, and even his elderly mother. He dreams of being a big-time comedian just like his idol, late night tv host Murray Franklin (Robert De Niro). Unfortunately, he's just not that good at it. Adding insult to injury is his constant, uncontrolled laughter caused by a mental condition, called Pseudobulbar Affect (naturally, it doesn't make him much of a popular guy, earning disturbed looks by the people around him. Indeed, the backstory of his laughter is one of the more interesting aspects of the film). Phoenix's laughter is equal parts funny, sad, disturbing and unforgettable.

Arthur is a surprisingly sympathetic, likable (to a point), and sad character that we feel for and even root for. It hurts to watch bad event after bad event be inflicted upon him. It's not hard at all to understand why he snaps and chooses to go down his infamous path (though of course we disagree with his choice, and want to see him do some good instead. Arthur inevitably adopts the viewpoint of "It's all fucked, so burn it down".). Joker (The movie) is the opposite of The Killing Joke, it's not one bad day that transforms Arthur into Joker (although Killing Joke is referenced in one blink-and-you'll-miss-it-line), it's a life that has been nothing but a never-ending series of bad days that proves to be Arthur's undoing. Joaquin Phoenix pulls off something incredible here. Just when you thought Ledger was the ultimate version of Joker, another contender steps into the ring. Phoenix's Joker is almost like a more grounded, sad, pathetic but still scary, frightening and disturbing version of Sid Caesar's Joker from the original Batman tv series. Phoenix makes the role his own (and is an impressive dancer, his dance scenes are unforgettable, some of them near the end are even infectious), and his performance is easily on par with Ledger's. He imbues his Joker with a pathos that makes him scarily relate-able. It would be great to see Phoenix return as The Joker in a future Batman film. The man deserves AT LEAST an Oscar nomination for Best Actor (Just like Phillips deserves AT LEAST a Best Director nomination, and the screenplay a best screenplay nomination).

Joker also has a fine supporting cast: Frances Conroy (of American Horror Story fame) is Penny Fleck aka Arthur's mom, Robert De Niro is Murray Franklin, Zazie Beetz (previously seen as Domino in Deadpool 2) plays Sophie Dumond; a young mom who lives down the hall from Arthur; and Brett Cullen is Thomas Wayne (aka Bruce Wayne's dad). While Joker really is a one-man show, the best of the supporting cast are De Niro, Beets, and Cullen. Cullen's Thomas Wayne is not the altruistic bastion of hope for Gotham we have been told he is. Instead, he is a typical rich douche who has little sympathy for those not privileged like he is. De Niro's Murray Franklin is a popular talk-show host turned bully who uses his platform to humiliate, degrade and belittle Arthur/Joker (The talk-show scene near the end between Joker and Murray is easily one of the best scenes in the whole film, and harbors shades of a similar talk-show scene in The Dark Knight Returns). De Niro fits his role perfectly.  He is believable as a late night talk show host, and is clearly having fun with his small part. Beetz has little screen-time but makes it work. Her character seems to be the only character who is sympathetic towards Arthur and his plight.

Let's quickly discuss the backlash against the film. It seems some are worried about Joker potentially inspiring mass shootings and violence. After watching the film, that wouldn't appear to be the case. Joker is a film with little action, and some violence here and there (It's more of a pure character study than anything else. If you walked in expecting lots of violence and action, you're going to be disappointed). It's all grounded and feels real, but the film never seems to condone these awful acts. It does appear to revel in the riots and protests, while still acknowledging how devastating and sad they are. More likely than not, those who are lashing out against Joker with these complaints haven't seen the film yet and are going just by what they have seen in the trailers. In short, there is very little to fear.

Joker is a very adult, very gritty, very sad/depressing, and very dark portrait of a man on the edge of sanity. It's complex, thrilling, and is sure to remind most of Taxi Driver and King of Comedy. It's remarkable for never drawing attention to it's late 70s/early 80s setting, but definitely feels like a film made in that era and set in that era. It's also surprisingly funny at times. This is a comic book movie that doesn't feel like a comic book movie (one might even go so far as to say it's NOT a comic book movie). While it's still to early to declare Joker the best movie of the year, it's certainly going to make it onto the list of best films. Joker is a dark tale that is tragic/comic, with plenty of pathos thrown in. With a phenomenal performance from Joaquin Phoenix, a top-notch directing job by Todd Phillips, a fantastic script, and plenty of things to chew on after the credits roll...Joker is undoubtedly a must-see. It also helps that it is definitely a film about and for our age. It deserves all the praise it gets, and it is indeed A MASTERPIECE!

5 STARS