Tag: thriller

Hellbound: Hellraiser 2 (1988)

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I got grounded for sneaking in to see this back in 1988. Yes it’s a bit cheesy at times, but this film is extremely dark, and even more extremely violent. I personally like this better than the original Hellraiser. You get all you need to know about the story in the prologue, so just dive in. It’s not the greatest transfer, but it’s in 1080p HD. What bothers me is the fact they didn’t finish this storyline, and made a horrendously bad part three. Don’t let that stop you from seeing this as the plot is wrapped up satisfyingly enough by the end.

FYI – I originally posted this months before I got a copy of the Arrow Blu-ray. I compared it to the version streaming (this is back in 2019) and the difference is pretty stunning. The Arrow version looks better in every way. It has more detail, better color, you name it. That said, if you’re a fan on this movie, get the Arrow Blu-ray. The extras alone are worth the investment.

Available on Blu-ray from Arrow.

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Department Q: The Keeper of Lost Causes (2013)

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This is the first film based on the popular Danish book series by Jussi Adler-Olsen. It’s a well-made crime thriller that borders on Law & Order level cheese, but is thankfully saved by it’s grit and stylishness. There’s a sequel, titled The Absent One, but I haven’t checked it out yet. Judging by the IMDb ratings, it’s on the same level as Keeper, so I will definitely be watching it.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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Remember (2015)

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This film was not well regarded by critics, but I enjoyed it. Yes, it’s not nearly as good as my previous Atom Egoyan recommendation The Sweet Hereafter. However I appreciated Remember better than a few other critically acclaimed films by the same director. It’s a good thriller, really. Check it out.

Available on Blu-ray from Lion’s Gate.

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Gang War in Milan (1973)

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I finally found an excellent Italian crime film in 1080p HD! This is a little slower paced for an Umberto Lenzi poliziotteschi, but very well made. It’s also a bit more serious than say, The Tough Ones. This was a total pleasure to watch as Raro Video’s restoration is fantastic. It features super saturated colors and deep shadows. Highly recommended.

Blu-ray available from Raro Video.

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Killer Joe (2011)

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This is a very dark, but funny film based on a stage play (directed by William Friedkin no less). It’s so ugly and violent Matthew McConaughey almost threw the script in the trash. Almost. I’m glad he didn’t. Killer Joe is a unique movie that I definitely enjoyed.

Available on Blu-ray from Lion’s Gate.

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Haywire (2011)

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Women’s MMA badass Gina Carano plays a super soldier out for revenge. This one took me by surprise the first time I saw it. Non-stop action from Steven Soderbergh?!? Yes. It isn’t a realistic fight film, but damn it’s fun to watch.

Available on Blu-ray from Lion’s Gate.

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Blow Out (1981)

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This is one of the less talked about Brian De Palma movies, but it’s among my favorites of all his work. To me this feels as if Dario Argento got a big budget, and made a giallo for an American audience. Blow Out has even got a very Goblin-esque score by Pino Donaggio and product placement by J&B Scotch. The opening scene is unforgettable. You’ll wonder what the hell kind of movie you’re in for. A key part of the opening is wisely referred to multiple times throughout the movie. This might also be my favorite film ever shot in Philadelphia. I lived there for 14 years, and it was a trip down memory lane to watch this again. Oh and for all your cult movie nerds, check out the amazing posters on the walls of the place John Travolta works. His performance is flat-out excellent in this one too.

Blu-ray available from Criterion Collection.

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Gangster No. 1 (2000)

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This is a solid English gangster riff on Goodfellas, but way more violent. Need I say more? Keep an eye out for Dr. Channard from Hellraiser 2. He even has a scene with Uncle Frank.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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Avengement (2019)

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There are a ton of awful action movies on Netflix (where I orginally saw Avengement). This movie should have been one of them, but I loved it. It features English gangsters, almost non-stop fighting, a good story, and solid production values. You might need to turn on the subtitles, as the accents and jargon are very thick for the duration. Really that’s a minor quibble – this movie is a blast.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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No Tears for the Dead (2014)

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Here’s another very good South Korean crime film. It’s got all the elements that you’d expect: tons of action, a very complicated story, extremely bad bad guys, and slick production values. This one leans a lot on drama, but that’s fine. It kept reminding me of Léon: The Professional, which is a good thing. Like Luc Besson’s film, the drama serves a purpose, and the action is impressive.

Blu-ray available from CJ Entertainment.

If you are a fan of Anomalous Cinema, please consider supporting this site by donating any amount (even $1.00 is appreciated) via Venmo @vergeoflight / Cash App $vergeoflight / or Paypal at this secure link. A Paypal account is not required. Thank you.