Hellraiser Documentary "Leviathan" Releases First Trailer

More news from the world of Clive Barker! The upcoming documentary "Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser 2" has officially released its first trailer. The documentary details the making of and history behind the first two installments of the "Hellraiser" based off of Clive Barker's masterpiece, "The Hellbound Heart."

Here is the synopsis from the film's website:

"Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser II" is a feature length documentary uncovering the history, making of and unknown details of the making of Clive Barker’s "Hellraiser" and "Hellbound: Hellraiser II" films. With interviews and testimonies from those most closely involved, we hope to bring a comprehensive insight to these classic cult films. Following the story of the films from their inception through production to release and the their subsequent lives and growing fan base, we aim to show fans and those less familiar with the films both the technical skills, the creative idea, the symbolism and the legacy of these movies. Delving deep into the director’s vision and ambitions for the project we’ll be exploring where he came from, where his career had taken him and the inspiration for the story and world he created. We’ll be telling the story of his journey of making them and how close they came to his vision at the time and how he feels about them over 25 years later. [...]Through a series of candid interviews, behind the scenes footage, stills and a look a promotional material from the time and the merchandise now available, we will create a truly engaging and informative piece, with a few laughs and a bit of gossip thrown in for good luck.

UK Production Wraps on Hellraiser Documentary "Leviathan"

"Leviathan," the behind the scenes documentary on the first two "Hellraiser" films has officially wrapped up filming in the UK. This portion of filming included interviews from Rupert Ryle-Hodges, the third assistant director on the original film, as well as some exciting details from FX make-up artists Simon Sayce and Beverly Pond-Jones.

Sayce is responsible for designing the films iconic puzzle box, the "Lament configuration." In the documentary he shares some never before seen images of the boxes original design and gives some insight on the hidden meanings of the design. To sweeten the sound of razors through flesh, or just get fans of the franchise more excited, a bevy of behind the scenes stories and rare images will also be included.

With the UK portion finished, the crew will now make their way stateside, where they will interview Tony Randel, director of "Hellbound: Hellraiser II," and the man under the pins himself, Doug Bradley.

'Hellraiser' Documentary Begins Filming

Good news, "Hellraiser" fanatics! A new behind-the-scenes documentary has just gone into production. Bloody Disgusting reported that film maker, K. John McDonagh, is working on "Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser II."

The documentary will provide a special look at the first two films and feature interviews from Barbie Wilde, Simon Bamford, Oliver Parker, Nicholas Vince Mark Coulier and more.

From the official website:

“Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser II" is a feature length documentary uncovering the history, making of and unknown details of the making of Clive Barker’s "Hellraiser" and "Hellbound: Hellraiser II" films. With interviews and testimonies from those most closely involved, we hope to bring a comprehensive insight to these classic cult films. Following the story of the films from their inception through production to release and the their subsequent lives and growing fan base, we aim to show fans and those less familiar with the films both the technical skills, the creative idea, the symbolism and the legacy of these movies. Delving deep into the director’s vision and ambitions for the project we’ll be exploring where he came from, where his career had taken him and the inspiration for the story and world he created. We’ll be telling the story of his journey of making them and how close they came to his vision at the time and how he feels about them over 25 years later. We want to hear how the cast and crew feel now and felt at the time about the idea, the production and the final film when it was completed as well as how they were influenced by the production and Clive and how the films have contributed to their futures. Through a series of candid interviews, behind the scenes footage, stills and a look a promotional material from the time and the merchandise now available, we will create a truly engaging and informative piece, with a few laughs and a bit of gossip thrown in for good luck.

With the recent news of a Clive Barker penned "Hellraiser" reboot, this documentary is as sweet as the sound of razors through flesh. Here's a little preview to peak your curiosity...just be prepared for the consequences. 

-Nowal Massari

Clive Barker to Pen 'Hellraiser' Remake?

Courtesy IMDB

Fans of "Hellraiser", prepare to experience pleasure beyond what you've ever known. Clive Barker took to his official Facebook today to announce that he is working on a remake of the first "Hellraiser" film. Barker has pitched the idea to Dimension Pictures, who eagerly accepted the idea of a darker (that's possible?) take on the 1987 classic. He has been officially invited to pen the script as of October 24, and promises to go light on the CGI. Here is the full statement from his Facebook:

HOT FROM HELL! My friends, I have some news which may be of interest to you. A few weeks ago I had a very productive meeting with Bob Weinstein of Dimension Pictures, in the course of which I pitched a remake of the first "Hellraiser" film. The idea of my coming back to the original film and telling the story with a fresh intensity-honoring the structure and the designs from the first incarnation but hopefully creating an even darker and richer film-was attractive to Dimension. Today I have officially been invited to write the script based upon that pitch. What can I tell you about it? Well, it will not be a film awash with CGI. I remain as passionate about the power of practical make-up effects as I was when I wrote and directed the first "Hellraiser." Of course the best make-up in the world loses force if not inhabited by a first-rate actor. I told the Dimension team that in my opinion there could never be a Pinhead without Doug Bradley, and much to my delight Bob Weinstein agreed. So once the papers are signed, I will open a Lemarchand Configuration, dip my quill in its contents and start writing. I promise that there will be nowhere on the Internet where the news of my progress will be more reliable than here, because the only author of these reports will be Your Infernal Corespondent, me. 
My very best wishes to you all, my friends.
Clive

Spooky Halloween Blinds Are a Cool Find

We love our readers and we especially love when they send us tips on cool paranormal-themed products. Many thanks to Alan Saul for sending us to a UK-based web site that custom makes spooky halloween blinds.

MadetoMeasureblinds-UK is definitely in the Halloween spirit and you have to check out their movie-themed designs that range from paying homage to Hitchcock’s “Psycho” to Kubrick's “The Shining” and even Barker’s “Hellraiser.” “Nosferatu” even gets a shout-out!

They also have classic and fun Halloween-themes like a jack-o-lantern and the fun guillotine. Sadly it looks like they only ship in the UK but we wanted to share this cool idea. Thanks, Alan!

-Larissa Mrykalo

New comics: May 22, 2013

 BY DAVID BERCK

The last couple of weeks were slow without a ton of new releases. Sure, there were enough to keep people happy, but we all still want more, more, MOAR, right? Things definitely pick up again this week with definite endings and lots of beginnings. We've got some pure entertainment, like Akaneiro from Dark Horse and Half Past Dark from IDW. Let's not forget a brand new superhero for the modern age in Image's newest release, Bounce! If you're into non-political comics that support populist movements, there's also something new for you this week with Occupy Comics!

Then there are the bittersweet double endings of three Green Lantern titles all dealing with the conclusion of "The Wrath of the First Lantern" story arc as well as the departure of writers from all three series. It's a mishmash and a hodgepodge of really cool stuff, so let's get to what's in the spotlight for May 22, 2013!

Valentine's Day Horrorfest: 5 films to get you scary good action

Happy Z-V Day, courtesy Elliot Quince

BY LARISSA MRYKALO

Your heart starts beating faster, your palms get sweaty, you start to shake and feel nervous, you long to grab on and hold tight for comfort. Are you falling in love or watching a horror movie?

It’s scary how similar the two are, and no doubt explains the rationale of watching a horror film with someone you have romantic feelings for. Watching a "romance" with someone can cause some swooning, but it also can elicit unrealistic expectations. Now, a film that gets the blood pumping and you end up in each other’s laps? That’s what we’re talking about!

There are some obvious Valentine’s Day films out there, such as My Bloody Valentine (1981, and the 3D remake from 2009) and the 2001 slasher film, Valentine, but there are some great horror flicks that give a good scare, contain some laughs, turn you on, make you cringe and may even leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. If you’re lucky, all of those elements are present.

So here are five films we’ve come up with to watch with your sweetie this February 14. Beware, there are spoilers and all films carry the "R" rating.

Candyman (1992)
Love is at the heart of why this urban legend springs to life. Based on the Clive Barker short story, "The Forbidden," Candyman (Tony Todd) was an artist and slave who fell in love with and impregnated a white woman. A big no-no back then. He was not only lynched and had his hand cut-off and replaced with a hook, but he was also stung to death by bees after being smeared with honey.

This film has lots of cringe-worthy scenes that guarantees that she’ll be burying her head in your chest. Just give your sweetie a nice box of candy, snuggle up, and when she asked you if you would be willing to die that way for her, you could safely say "yes" and she’ll swoon.

Fright Night (1985)
The original Fright Night just seemed a little more romantic in that the lead characters, Amy (Amanda Bearse) and Charlie (William Ragsdale) seemed more likely to be "in-love virgins." They’re an adorable couple who like to make-out and watch late night horror films together. The only issue this couple had, was when and how to lose their virginity, that is, until a sexy neighbor named "Jerry" (Chris Sarandon) moves in next door to Charlie and started killing hookers.

See guys, your gal will realize that all really handsome men aren’t always what they seem. Also, Charlie really goes the extra mile for Amy. Most guys would probably bail if their girlfriend turned into a vampire, not risk his life to kill the centuries-old jerk who changed her! Again, if your sweetie asks you if you’d do the same for them, just tell them "Of course, dear!" This film is fun, scary, funny, and sexy. A winning combo!

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
The Francis Ford Coppola film version of this traditional tale really captured the essence of the story. It’s beautifully shot and Gary Oldman’s portrayal of the Count is not only frightening but also touching. The love he feels for his dead wife and how he fervently pursues Mina (Winona Ryder), the living embodiment of her, will really help to stoke the romantic fires. The scene towards the end where the Count and Mina "consumm-ate" their relationship will get her at least a little hot, we promise.

Zombieland (2009)
Nothing says romance like scary zombies, right? This "zom-rom-com" has lots of fun elements including that of romance. It has some scary scenes that’ll make her jump into your arms and some great laughs too. There’s a sweet attraction between Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg) and Wichita (Emma Stone). How about when Columbus risks his life to save Wichita and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) at the end, and then Wichita kisses him and reveals her real name? Come on! That’s romantic gold, baby!

So dig out your hidden stash of Twinkies and let your gal know she’s worth it. Maybe make up some fun "rules" of your own? Hint, hint.

Hellraiser (1987)
Nothing says love like luring strangers back to your home and bludgeoning them to death so that your dead lover could use their skin to restore him back into human form, right? Clive Barker’s demonic tale is no doubt, very disturbing, but it also shows just how far some people would go for love.

Julia (Clare Higgins), who sports a really sexy Gozer the Gozerian hair style, is in love with her husband’s sexually adventurous and now torn apart brother, Frank (Sean Chapman) and engages in these unspeakable acts for him. There are some sexy flashbacks and many scenes that aren’t for the squeamish but these factors can make for a great date movie. However, in this case, if your lover asks if you’d go this far for them, say “no.”

We could go on and on with a list of romantic horror films, but we just wanted to give you a sampling of movies and what to look for when choosing a great horror movie to watch on a date. Let us know some of your favorites!