Vinegar Syndrome Review: Deathrow Gameshow (1987)

  “Chuck Toedan Wants You ... To Die Laughing!”

Chuck Toedan (John McCafferty) is the host of the popular yet controversial game show Live or Die in which the contestants are death row inmates who get one last shot at fame, freedom and prizes for their families (there's an idea for you President Trump!). After beheading a good old fashioned family man, Chuck is greeted by a rowdy group of protestors outside of the studio, one of which being the beautiful leader of the Women Against Anything Men Are For (WAAMAF for short or what we call feminists nowadays) group; Gloria Sternvirgin (Robyn Blythe). Their paths cross again when they guests on a chat show debating moral value of Live or Die. Their debate bleeds out in to the parking lot until they are suddenly attacked by a couple of armed goons. Making a quick getaway, Toedan makes the realisation that they are grunts from mafia trying to seek revenge for the death of the head of the Pappalardo family, a previous contestant on his electrifying game show. This puts both his and Sternvirgin's lives in danger and he is posed the biggest moral question of all – should he continue with the show or get his well groomed behind out of the picture before it's rubbed out by someone else? Well, money talks so he carries on, but when Luigi Pappalardo (Beano) is sent to finish off the job, maybe that will convince him.

  As you can tell by the concept and some of the names used in the film, this is one of those camp and off-the-wall late 80's comedies. As with a lot of these low-budget horror comedies, the humour is there, but doesn't always work. Some of the character's names did give me a giggle and there is a genuinely funny gag involving a children's crossing and a great moment of fourth wall breaking (probably my favourite segment of the film). That being said, there are many crude jokes, innuendos and all round childish gags that did make my eyes roll. As much as that aspect did often frustrate me, this film never takes itself too seriously and you do get the impression that this was a fun shoot to be involved in. The story is fairly simple, but works and is well paced. Quite well written actually. The actors put in a decent effort and have great chemistry (thanks to the fact that nearly everyone involved has worked with each other multiple times up to that point.), but there are moments that do make you cringe slightly. In terms of production value, I think everyone did a solid job. Craig Bassuk's cinematography is solid with some really nicely staged shots. Tim Shoemaker's editing is equally solid, if not better. As well as that, there's some great stunt work, practical effects and a great score / soundtrack from Gregg Cross (the film's opening theme is great and worth a listen on its own!). All in all, it's a very solidly crafted and executed piece of low-budget comedy. It may not be my cup of tea, but I can definitely see why this has a cult following.

  For fans of the film, you are in for a treat with this release from Vinegar Syndrome. The film is scanned, restored & preserved in 2k from the 35mm original camera negative in a DVD & Blu-ray combo release. The film looks and sounds great, especially the vibrant colours used throughout. As well as that, there's an introduction to film by Mark Pirro as well as a commentary track with himself, Blythe & McCafferty which I found to be both insightful and full of great trivia. To compliment that, there's the 2015 Director's Cut of the film which has some quite questionable additions and tweaks (Pirro does refer to it as a Lucas-like remaster), a trailer, TV spot, image gallery and a director bio. The main special features on this disc are the making of documentary (includes information found in the commentary as well as other entertaining nuggets) and couple of Pirro's short films. These are Buns (1978) and The Spy Who Did it Better (1979). Buns follows a serial killer who murders anyone eating a hamburger and The Spy Who Did it Better is a nice parody (correct music cues and all) of the James Bond films. Both films have the same bizarreness and often bad taste that we find in Deathrow Gameshow and are great additions to this release. I actually think The Spy Who Did it Better is my favourite thing on this disc. All of these wonderful extras are topped off with reversible artwork. All in all, this is a must for hardcore fans of the film and those who like the campy side of 80's cinema. The film wasn't great, but it was by far a dull experience and I have to give credit where credit's due; it's great to see that Pirro is still very active in low-budget scene today. How many times can you say that!?

Deathrow Gameshow is available as a DVD / BluRay Combo from Vinegar Syndrome as well as being streamable on Exploitation.tv.

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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Murder Weapon / Deadly Embrace (1989)

  “They lust for revenge... They do it at night... And they're more than lethal.”

When mobster daughters Dawn (Linnea Quigley, CREEPOZOIDS) and Amy (Karen Russell, VICE ACADEMY) by chance meet in an insane asylum, the pair hatch a plan to free themselves. They do this by manipulating and downright blackmailing their psychiatrists Dr. Randolph (Lyle Waggoner, WONDER WOMAN) and Dr. Gram (Lenny Rose, BEACH BABES FROM BEYOND). Once successfully free, the pair decide to celebrate their freedom by holding a little get together. They decide to invite their ex-boyfriends Kevin (Stephen Steward, SHOCK CINEMA VOL.4), Eric (Michael Jacobs Jr, DIE WATCHING), Cary (Allen First, AMERICAN RAMPAGE), Billy (Richard J. Sebastian, DREAM A LITTLE DEVIL), Jeff (Eric “Garbage Day!” Freeman, SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT PART 2), Bart (Rodger Burt, LADY AVENGER) and Al (Allen Tombello, EVIL OBSESSION) to celebrate their release and hopefully get a little of welcome home action. Although something of a sausage fest, the party is going well and everyone is having a damn good time. Unfortunately however, things take a sinister turn when the boys slowly start getting picked off one by one in bloody and gory fashion by a mysterious clad killer. Is this the work of rival crime families? Maybe there's some jealousy between the male party guests? Could the father of one of the girls be involved or could it just be the girls getting their revenge on past lovers?

  I have to say that going in to this film, I really wasn't expecting too much. Thankfully, what I got was a damn good time. First of all, the story is simple, but works well. It's a solidly written effort from Ross A. Perron (this and AMERICAN RAMPAGE being his only credits) and the use of flashbacks to further the story and answer some of the twists and turns is quite refreshing in such low-budget schlock of its time. There's not too much to some of the characters, but it doesn't matter too much and never hurts the film. Performances through may not be Oscar worthy, but again, it doesn't matter and what are you really expecting? For me, one of the greatest surprises with Murder Weapon is the violence and gore. I was expecting the occasional fit for purpose cheesy gore gags here and there, but what we have instead are a collection of genuinely nasty and quite shocking moments of gore. David P. Barton (300) and his team do a very impressive job indeed with the practical and make up effects. Another quite thing is the fact that the violence and gore is used sparingly adding that punch that most films would lack in that regard. Editing and cinematography are both solid enough and the only slight problem I had with the technological aspects was the sound. Even that is a minor gripe because the only time it was a real issue was when Del Casher's (TROPICAL HEAT) score would be playing over some of the dialogue. Like I said, a minor gripe. All in all, it's far from a perfect film, but it's a damn enjoyable one. It may be a little light on the sleaze and erotic elements, but Karen Russell and Linnea Quigley are a very potent combination so you smut peddlers out there will appreciate that aspect!

  _

“When adultery turns to obsession, the climax may be murder...”
Chris Thompson (Ken Abraham, HOBGOBLINS) is your typical teenage college student. He's got himself a stunning wannabe actress girlfriend named Michelle (Linnea Quigley) that he wants to spend the rest of his life with. One day at college after listening to a lecture from rich sleazeball Stewart Moreland (Jan-Michael Vincent, AIRWOLF), Chris finds himself getting a gardening and housekeeping job from said rich sleazeball (it's not what you know, it's who you know!). The only condition is that he has to stay at the residence which isn't too bad of a thing because Moreland's wife is the lonely and horny Charlotte (Mindi Miller, BODY DOUBLE). With her husband away and getting his jollies with his secretary DeDe (Ruth Collins, DEATH COLLECTOR), it's only natural that her cougar sights are set on the fresh meat her husband has bestow upon on her. With a heartless husband and a madly in love girlfriend thrown in to the mix, this could make for a steamy affair or even a deadly one.

  I'd say I hate to surprise you, but I think you know already that it will be the latter. I won't be a prick and completely ruin it for you, but I will say that the final third is probably the strongest aspect of this whole film. The problem with a film like Deadly Embrace is it's not amazing or terrible, it's juts a bit dull. Richard Gabai's (KICKBOXING ACADEMY) script is solid enough, but really doesn't do anything too unique. It's safe to say that you will have seen this film made multiple times in terms of its narrative. The build up to the finale and the psychological aspects however are satisfying, but it's too little too late. Acting is above par and actually a lot more solid than most erotic thrillers of its time and budget, the standout for me being Mindi Miller who plays the bored and lonely housewife perfectly. You sympathise her situation perfectly. The erotic elements of the film work well, mainly in that so bad it's good sort of way. There are those moments where people will be grinding against each other with underwear still clearly visible, but again seeing the likes of Quigley and Miller do make up for that (yes, I'm a pig!). All in all, there's really not too much to talk about with this film. It's your typical 80's softcore erotica, just a tiny bit bland and needing some much spice! Just how was this one of DeCoteau's biggest selling films?

Regardless of what I think of the actual films, this is another winner of a release from Vinegar Syndrome. Both films look and sound great and are presented in 2k from the original 16mm camera negatives. Films of this niche could be seen as undeserving of the restoration they receive, but I for one am thankful that labels like Vinegar Syndrome exist and do exactly this job. The only real imperfections found in the sound and visuals come mainly from the films themselves and the way they were shot, but with that being said, they are both very accomplished productions. Both films come with commentaries from DeCoteau and Quigley, director introductions, a video trailer for Murder Weapon, outtakes for Deadly Embrace and some striking original artwork with some nice gory reversible art for good measure. Yeah, Murder Weapon completely outshines Deadly Embrace for me, but if you are either a fan of DeCoteau, Quigley or cheap erotic 80's schlock – you are in for a breast, blood and cheesy synth filled treat.

Murder Weapon & Deadly Embrace are available as a DVD & Blu-Ray combo from Vinegar Syndrome.
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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Luther the Geek (1988, dir: Carlton Albright)

  “A movie with a fowl bite!”

When Luther (Carlton Williams in his only role) was a young boy, he witnessed a group of rowdy locals egging on the local Geek (Tom Brittingham also in his only role) to bite the head off a chicken. This combined with him getting his teeth accidentally knocked out by one of said locals in the ruckus leads young Luther to develop a taste for blood. Naturally, this turns him in to a bloodthirsty psycho and paves the way for a life of crime. After serving 20 years and thanks to prison board member Mrs. Butler (Karen Maurise, Dark Skies), a much older and balder Luther (Edward Terry, The Children) is set free. Armed with a set of homemade metal teeth, Luther carries on from where he left off and sets off to continue his reign of terror, one neck at a time! It's not just the chickens who need to watch out. On his rampage, Luther invades the farm of Hilary (Joan Roth, In Transit) and her daughter Beth (Stacy Haiduk, Superboy). Can Beth's hunky boyfriend Rob (Thomas Mils, Bean) and / or bumbling local trooper (Jerry Clarke, Tracks) stop Luther before it's too late? You better clucking well hope so!

  I won't lie, I really found this to be quite a dull film. I know that this is a cult classic for some, but I just don't see what's so special about it. Let's get the positive out of the way; the gore. Both Mike Tristano (Evil Dead 2) and William Purcell (Invasion USA) do a fantastic job with some genuinely gruesome special effects. Unfortunately, that's really the only positive I can give for this film. OK, maybe some of the scenes including the busty Stacy Haiduk “elevated” things slightly, but boobs and blood don't always make a film. Some may be surprised by this, but Luther himself isn't really a memorable character. I mean no disrespect to Edward Terry, but his portrayal of Luther is unintentionally comical and rather camp in places. I know his constant clucking and wide eyes are supposed to inject fear in to the audience, but he seriously makes the quacking killer in The New York Ripper seem like one of horror's true greats. The only unsettling thing about Luther is that he looks like me if I was the balding offspring of Klaus Kinski. Now THAT is truly a terrifying thought! As for the rest of the film? Average in every way. The acting is pretty lame, David Knox's (Captain America: The First Avenger) cinematography is about average and the score from Vern Carlson (Vigilante) is one of those unmemorable late 80's / early 90's synth scores that just exists. Yeah, really finding it hard to even really write about this film because I don't know if I told you this, but it was just so dull! Even though the film may be nothing to shout about, the release itself is!

  You got it folks! This is Vinegar Syndrome once again taking a Troma property and giving it a must own release for fans of the film. The film is scanned and restored in 2k from the original 35mm camera negative and looks and sounds great. To top off another great restoration job there are a whole bunch of extras. All of the extras from previous Troma releases are included as well as an introduction and commentary from Carlton Albright himself, there's a video interview with Jerry Clarke, reversible artwork and the original theatrical trailer. It's a bumper package and even though I am really not a fan of the film itself, listening to Albright talk about the film and those involved is insightful and entertaining. It's one of those instances were the extras are actually much more entertaining than the actual film! If you are already a fan of this film, there's no reason why you shouldn't pick this up. For those wanting to experience Luther the Geek for the first time, this is also a release you should check out, just be warned about the actual film.

Luther the Geek is available as a DVD / Blu-Ray combo from Vinegar Syndrome.

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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Frightmare (1981, dir: Norman Thaddeus Vane)

FRIGHTMARE
(a.k.a THE HORROR STAR, BODY SNATCHERS)

(1981, Norman Thaddeus Vane)

“There was Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney, and Conrad Ragzoff! They were all stars who lived and died. But only one returned...”

  Fandom  takes on a whole new meaning when a group of film loving college students decide to pay the ultimate respects to their favourite horror icon, the recently deceased Conrad Radzoff (Ferdy Mayne, Barry Lyndon). How do they do this? Hold a memorial? Have a Radzoff horror marathon? Nope, they decide to steal his freshly buried body and give hime the ultimate farewell house party back in their mansion! Like most cases however, this is one of those instances were one of your heroes is actually an arsehole (Cough-Tom Savini-Cough!). You see, Radzoff had an often fatal temper. Not even a cameo from Leon Askin (The Robe) is safe! To make matters infinitely worse for our group of corpse stealing cinephiles, Mayne decides to carry on his bloody streak from beyond the grave. One by one, the students learn a valuable lesson; let sleeping corpses lie (see what I did there?, especially if they happen to be a bloodthirsty prima-donna!

  Frightmare is a somewhat unique experience. A supernatural slasher that although rather straight-faced, is still fun and doesn't take itself too seriously. That being said, in between Radzoff dying and him picking off the students, the film does plod a little. It's still a very solidly directed and written film however. There's some solid cinematography that utilises light perfectly from Joel King (The Mighty Ducks) and an atmospheric score from Jerry Mosely (Blood Tide) who should have gone on to do greater things as the score seems to take reference and pay homage to many horror film scores of yesteryear, as well as being contemporary with some fantastic synth work. All in all, aesthetically the film ticks all the boxes. The deaths, although not too graphic are staged and executed solidly thanks to the work of Jill Rockow (Pirates of the Caribbean) and Chuck E. Stewart (Con Air). The star of the show is of course Ferdy Mayne. Sure, he can be campy as hell in his performance, but it works perfectly within the context of the film. A role intended for Christopher Lee (Dracula: Prince of Darkness), Mayne fills the boots perfectly and even though we see clips of young Ragzoff, it takes a minute to realise it's actually footage of a young Christopher Lee. Although a despicable character, it's so satisfying to see him kill the group of unlikeable students. This isn't because of bad writing, it's because they are complete douchebags. Within the group of students we have performances from a young Jeffrey Combs (Re-Animator) and Luca Bercovici (Drop Zone). The film is really well cast and everyone puts in a great performance, no matter how significant their role is.

  If you're a fan of horror cinema that deals with horror cinema, this is a film you must watch. Thanks to film historian David Del Valle, the film itself is littered with actual props and memorabilia. From the poster of Lucio Fulci's Zombie Flesh Eaters to the decapitated head of Frank Zito from Maniac. There is so much to ingest in that regard. Not only that, but there are typical horror tropes and references throughout for the seasoned horror fans out there to discover. All in all, I enjoyed Frightmare more than expected. Sure, it won't change your perception of the slasher genre, but it has enough there to warrant repeat viewings. In terms of the release, I can't say I've seen the previous Troma release, but from my research, Vinegar Syndrome have done a great job upgrading this film in both a visual and audible sense. Don't get me wrong, it's not Vinegar Syndrome's greatest effort, but it's still a lot more than most labels would do. On the disc we have two commentary tracks; one from The Hysteria Continues and one from David Del Valle and David DeCoteau. There's an archival audio interview from Vane himself prior to his death, an interview with cinematographer Joel King, original theatrical trailer and reversible artwork showcasing The Horror Star artwork. It's a great release for both fans and newcomers.

Frightmare is available as a DVD & Blu-ray combo from Vinegar Syndrome and available to stream on Exploitation.tv

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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Madman (1981, dir: Joe Giannone)

MADMAN
(1981, dir: Joe Giannone)

“Deep in the woods, lurks a hideous evil... Don't even whisper his name!”

Regular readers will know that I am not a big fan of the slasher genre. A lot of the times, I am just bored to tears. I would much rather watch a giallo when it's at its most convoluted, than a 'classic' slasher. That being said, I'm a fair guy. I believe every film should be watched at least once before you offer your opinion. Thankfully, the lovely folks over at Vinegar Syndrome have been sending over many films that I have never heard of and films that I wouldn't usually check out. Last year they released the slasher classic, Graduation Day. I was pleasantly surprised by the film (Christopher George hamming it up always helps). Fast forward to today, they have recently released another cult classic from the slasher genre. That film is Madman from 1981, directed by Joe Giannone. This is a film I have seen pop up in discussions for years. Thanks to Vinegar Syndrome, I can finally see what all the fuss is about. I won't bore you with a retelling of the film because I'm guessing you will have already watched it. I will however, do a good old fashioned cut and paste job of the synopsis because I am a true professional:
“Years ago, Madman Marz violently murdered his family only to escape into the woods before his execution could be completed. Legend has it that anyone who calls his name above a whisper can summon him back to continue his bloody rampage. But teenage Richie, away at camp, doesn’t believe the old legend and calls his name. As night falls, strange things start happening at camp and soon Madman Marz is back, axe in hand, to finish the killing spree he started decades ago.”

Overall, I found Madman to be a very enjoyable film. The concept of an urban legend coming to life is simple, yet ingenious. Of course nowadays, it's a played out plot device. What Madman does that many films haven't managed to do for the most part, is create a mythology that actually has some weight to it. Madman Marz is a brute of a character that deserved to have a franchise just as much as Freddy, Jason or Leatherface. For the most part, it's your typical slasher film. That being said, one thing that is clearly evident is that Madman wasn't a film made out of purely cashing in on the slasher boom at the time, but a genuine passion project from all those involved. There is actual care and effort put in to what is essentially an independent horror film. Instead of a quickly shot and thoughtlessly staged effort, we have a stylish production lensed by James Lemmo (Ms.45). Although not brilliantly acted, the cast do a good job throughout, especially Frederick Neumann (Reversal of Fortune) as the camp leader and Madman Marz himself, Paul Ehlers (Ink & Steel). The film isn't as brutal as other slashers, but the kills are varied and bloody enough to satisfy the gore-hounds. One thing that stood out to me was the score which is brooding and electronic. It adds to the tension of the film. Speaking of which, Madman is full of tension and has a genuinely creepy atmospheric feel that helps the film stand out. This isn't just another schlocky slasher with a cheap gimmick and over the top gore. It's easy to see why Madman has a cult following. I've been more entertained by this film than I have by all of the bigger franchise efforts combined. It's not a perfect film and I'm not suddenly an advocate of the genre, but Madman is a competent enough effort that has charm. I was very pleasantly surprised, but then again, my expectations are always low for films like this. If you haven't seen the film before, give it a try.

In terms of picture and sound quality, the film is newly restored in 4k from the camera negative and I think have Vinegar Syndrome have once again done a stellar job. My only reference to previous releases of Madman are from screen-grabs, but boy this presentation wipes the floor with what was perviously available. A film like this shot entirely at night is always going to be a cause for concern when it comes to restoring, but fear not! The blacks are solid enough the colours are nice and crisp. Vinegar Syndrome have done one of their best restoration jobs here. The sound is also just as solid and helps lifts the synth score to another level. I'm only going off the DVD by the way, you're really in for a treat with the Blu-ray! You may want to sell off your old Anchor Bay DVD, but this release and use the change to buy some pizza and beers for a weekend screening! The best aspect of this release for me is the wealth of extra features. Naturally, you get the theatrical trailer, TV spots and vintage still gallery. There are also commentaries from The Hysteria Lives! As well as the producer, director and cast. Alongside the usual extras you get Victor Bonacore's feature length documentary The Legend Lives: 30 Years of Madman which includes a wealth of information and anecdotes. There's also featurette celebrating 35 years of Madman as well as new interviews with cast and crew, some conducted by the folks over at Deadpit Radio. To top if off, you also get a selection of songs inspired by the film which is the icing on the cake. Yep, this is as definitive of a release as you will get.

Overall, this is an essential release for both lovers of the film as well as those wanting to experience this cult classic for the first time. Like I said, I am no real fan of slashers, but I have to thank Vinegar Syndrome for making me experience and enjoy a film I wouldn't have rushed out to see any time soon. Go buy this release, but remember to breathe his name no louder than a whisper!

Madman is available as a DVD / Blu-Ray combo from Vinegar Syndrome.

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