Netflix

Uncle G’s FUN Television Reviews: GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling)

As Seen On ClassicRockRadio.co.uk

06 July 2017
Uncle G’s FUN Television Reviews
Source: Netflix Series (Season 1)
Spotlight: GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling)
By: Gary “Uncle G” Brown
Twitter @GBrown0816

Some days ago I got sick of watching the political cable news channels, and picking up the remote, I spoke right into it saying; 

“Netflix.”

I’m a second-year subscriber. Started out with their snail mail Blu-ray/DVD service. Seriously good turn around. While staying in Pennsylvania, I watched about 50 movies in nine months (Dec 2015 – Sept 2016). 

Voice command remote is awesome! Seconds after I spoke, Netflix’s streaming service appeared on my TV. Once signed in, the first thing I saw was a promotion for a brand new series they just debuted called; GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling). A comedy/drama about the making of a professional female wrestling cable TV program. It all takes place in the 1980’s. Inspired by a true story.

The promo image(s) Netflix uses/used for GLOW is very enticing. Caught my eye.

GLOW - Ruth

Of course, my first reaction was to pass and scroll immediately down to my list. Am into season 5 of a comedy sitcom called; 30 Rock. Well written! Very funny! I totally missed the show when it first aired. Was going to eat dinner, and watch an episode of that. Instead, I added ‘GLOW’ to my list, and before I knew it, was watching the ‘pilot’ episode. Finished the debut season within a few days. Decided “GLOW” was something I could write about.  Started doing research. Taking a break, I stepped out for a bit. Got some good smoke from ‘Verts Neighborhood Dispensary’ here in Fort Collins, and a big bottle of Mike’s Hard Lemonade on the way home. Viewed all ten episodes of GLOW again, in a row. A little over a half hour long each. I proved that it’s possible to sit down and binge watch the whole thing. Would need to devote about five to six hours of your life. You can do an old time ‘intermission’ like they did back in the day when a movie contained many reels, or the theater wanted to sell more snack food. I did bathroom breaks.

GLOW - Banner

Uncle G discusses … GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling)

When it comes to a movie or a new series, if I’m not interested 20 minutes into something I’m watching, then it’s bye-bye whatever it is. I’m even harder on Netflix’s stand-up comedians. Five minutes into their act and I’ll decide if I want to go on any further. After all, only so much time in a day. In that situation, it’s pretty cut and dry. Their act either makes me laugh, or it doesn’t. Here comes the thumb down rating. 

I’m not sure if I was completely hooked twenty minutes into the 37-minute first episode (Pilot) of GLOW. All I know is I kept on watching. And yes, by the time it was over, I already had decided to watch episode two in which was entitled; ‘Slouch.Submit.’ With a title like that, how could I not? 

GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling) is an adult comedy/drama. Behind the scenes includes some heavy hitters in the entertainment industry, associated with past shows you might recognize; Jenji Kohan (Orange Is The New Black), Liz Flahive (Nurse Jackie_Homeland), and Carly Mensch (Weeds).  

In front of the camera, is a wonderful main cast, and a bunch of equally wonderful, supporting actors/actresses.

Season One of GLOW tells the tale of how the semi-popular cable TV problem that ran from 1986 to 1990, came into being. Being around back then, I admit I never tuned in. Frankly, television wrestling wasn’t ever a favorite of mine. Placed in the same category as soap operas. I really couldn’t care less. Not to criticize. Certainly, I understand the entertainment value. Having ladies wrestle is more appealing to me, than seeing the men. Especially when their heads are between each other’s legs. The last wife I had, she and her family were heavily into all the wrestling programs. I never even came close to sharing that passion with them.  

In defense, besides the usual one on one body contact, sometimes be it with pretty people (male or female), are storylines that will either suck you in or make shake your head in disbelief, as to how horrible this can truly be. Sketches and storylines created purposely for shock effect. The actual wrestling match can be engrossing if wrestlers are skilled. Should storyline and actual match be equally good, the thrills and chills for those into it, are seemingly orgasmic. Going by outward appearances. 

The cast of GLOW includes Alison Brie (Mad Men), and Betty Gilpin (Nurse Jackie). Both portray main characters of the program. Episode one opens up with Alison’s character, Ruth Wilder, at an acting audition. Professionally she could be doing better. Life appears a total uphill struggle. Luckily her BFF is a stay home new Mom/former soap opera actress; Debbie Eagan. As a friend, she totally rocks, until something happens involving Ruth, and Debbie’s husband that redefines their relationship. 

The stereotypical B movie director of GLOW, cocaine-loving Sam Sylvia. Superbly portrayed by successful stand up comic/actor; Marc Maron. Throughout the 10 episodes, expect lots of well-written one-liners from this guys mouth. Reflections and dealings with the life around him. Capable of being a sorry sack of shit, deep inside redeeming qualities. 

There is really not a character, no matter how small, that seems wrong, or out of place. The cast of GLOW is more diverse than the original show. Again, that long dead series is but a pool of ideas from which to pick or choose. 

One of my favorite characters besides the three I already mentioned; Sheila the She-Wolf. Played by Gayle Rankin. Found her interesting from the get go. Am looking forward to at least one show in Season Two (assuming Netflix renews) devoted more to Sheila’s backstory.

So many great characters on GLOW … Melanie Rosen (actress Jackie Tohn) is another one I dig.  

A couple more mentions.  Capturing a few minutes screen time, and while doing so making a lasting impression, actor; George Murdoch. Most people know him for his association with professional wrestling. I watch him almost every week on Fox News; The Greg Gutfeld Show.  A likable fellow.  Appears so out of the ring anyway. His character on GLOW is the ‘Mighty Tom Jackson.’ Part of a wrestling dynasty that’s tied to one of the GLOW women. Her name is ‘Carmen’, and is portrayed splendidly by actress, Britney Young. 

Warning

GLOW contains nudity and adult language. Nothing that ever insulted my intelligence, or dulled my visual senses. 

Many times throughout the 10 episodes, Netflix’s GLOW, starring the beautiful  Alison Brie and Betty Gilpin,  made me laugh out loud. I might have been even been shocked, at least once. Was pleasantly surprised to see Elizabeth Perkins. Showtime’s Weeds was such a delight, and Elizabeth’s acting, especially comedic skills, made me a fan for life. In GLOW, she plays a supporting role; Birdie.

“Uncle G” rates … GLOW (Gorgeous Ladies Of Wrestling)

Using the same one to ten star rating system, whereas one star means it sucks celery stalks, to ten stars which would mean … it’s like totally bitchin  … “Uncle G” gives the new Netflix comedy/drama GLOW … 10 STARS! Even if nit-picking, I just can’t seem to find anything wrong with this. I like the way it was filmed. The soundtrack includes many a song that the radio station I write for, play every day. 

I conclude that the gorgeous ladies of GLOW make a great team, and along with the few token guys in front of the camera (only kidding) are extremely capable of going just as long as the real television show did. Even longer.

Helpful Websites

Official Netflix GLOW webpage

https://www.netflix.com/title/80114988

Gary “Uncle G” Brown Official Website

http://www.garyunclegbrownarchives.com/home 

Movie Review: Elvis & Nixon (2016)

As Seen On: ClassicRockRadio.co.uk
Uncle G’s FUN Movie Reviews
Spotlight: Elvis & Nixon (2016 Amazon Studios)
By: Gary “Uncle G” Brown
Twitter @GBrown0816

I actually remember President Nixon being in office. Bits and pieces. More so than President Johnson, and the President before him; John F. Kennedy. My birth was in 1961. Hard to believe that five and a half decades has since almost passed. I’m especially surprised with each new day that goes by, how much I remember from my childhood. Spent the entire 1970’s as a resident of the great state; New Jersey. Was nine years old and living in South Amboy, when the main event in this movie took place. I do not remember watching the evening news, which would have come out of New York City, and being informed that the one and only Elvis Presley had visited the White House that day, taking in a meeting with then President: Richard Milhous Nixon (1913-1994). Odds are I was outside playing, or preoccupied doing something else. Fourth grade was a busy time.

For President Nixon, Watergate would later on equal impeachment. A dark chapter in our nation’s history. Bill Clinton’s impeachment over two decades later, was a stain on the fabric that made this country great. Another story for another day, for that’s not the occurrence that happened in the White House’s Oval Office that this theatrical film focuses on. For it’s towards the end of 1970, when the King of Rock n’ Roll, Elvis Presley decided his country needed him. The TV news was full of could be communists and kids (young adults) using dope (pot). In Elvis’ eyes, the United States was going to shit. Wanting to be of service, the rock n’ roller, perhaps foolishly believed that by simply obtaining a real badge and title, Federal Agent at Large, that he could be of service to the country he loved, and respected so dearly. After all, he was a black belt in karate, and a movie actor in which he pretended to be other people. Tools / experience to help him go undercover. To rid the streets of the ones he concluded were ruining the good old United States of America. So on the spur of the moment, off to Washington DC he goes. Tries to anyway. At first he finds it somewhat difficult. But then it’s straight to the White House. To hand deliver a letter, and then ask for a meeting with the President. Again, not as easy as he thought.

Giving President Nixon positive promotion, is what the White House was about. To get a picture taken in the oval office of Richard Nixon with the most popular entertainer in the world, would mean instant voter approval. Especially young voters, and those who lived in the South. When Nixon learns that he’s going to meet Elvis, he wonders aloud; “Who the fuck set this up?”. Nixon was not keen on the idea of spending time with the musician, and at first said no. A little persuasion from his daughter, and before you know it, the most requested photo of The National Archives is snapped; Nixon & Elvis. This movie is all about that fateful day.

photo Nixon_Elvis Oral Office_zpsue1ixtwo.jpg

I always liked Elvis. Even the fat Elvis towards the end. The 1970 December 21st Elvis, in which this film depicts, pretty much still had his shit together. Some crazy episodes. Things not everyone was aware of. Example, he had the habit of shooting TV’s when it displayed something he didn’t like. In the beginning of this movie, he’s seen watching the news, and getting more pissed by the second. Then he takes his handgun, and fires at several television sets. Doing that sets this picture in motion.

Michael Shannon, portrays the legendary musician, Elvis Presley. The skinny version. Give it a minute watching Michael’s perform, and after that you’ll have no problem believing he is Elvis. A very creditable performance. And the movie itself, has a great look and feel to it. Must be hard to go back over forty years, and recreate what it was like. A lot of research and hard work. A period piece is either one hundred percent believable, or it’s garbage. All involved with ‘Nixon & Elvis’ did their homework, and it shows.

And while I’m throwing praise around. I always believed the more writers a movie had, the greater the odds of it blowing chunks. Three writers responsible for Elvis & Nixon, and all doing a terrific job; Joey Sagal, Hanala Sagal, and Cary Elwes. For the viewer, it’s like being a fly on the wall. A story well told / presented. Directed by Liza Johnson, in what I hope is her most successful film yet.’Elvis & Nixon’ should appeal to many; historians, President Nixon & Elvis fans, those into politics or rock n’ roll, and anyone else who enjoys watching a good film, that doesn’t involve superheroes. Rated ‘R’ I believe for salty language. Might bore the youngins.

Have I mentioned Kevin Spacey yet? Reminds me of actor Gene Hackman. Both men, outstanding at whatever movie they are in. Mister Spacey had his imitation / portrayal of Nixon down to a science. His mannerisms. The way he spoke. And the look is there also. Thank God not spitting image. Give it thirty seconds to get used to. May not even be necessary. Spacey’s believable right out the gate. The same throughout the whole one hour and forty minute film. If I was handing out Oscar’s, he’d get one for this performance.

Those who played the parts of Nixon’s aides and Elvis’ associates, also did a wonderful job. Elvis’ long time friend, Jerry Schilling is portrayed by Alex Pettyfer. Johnny Knoxville, did a very good friend playing Sonny, another Elvis’ caretaker. Colin Hanks as Egil Krogh, Evan Peters as Dwight Chapin, and Tate Donovan as White House Chief of Staff H. R. Haldeman. All do justice to their portrayal of these men.

Music: A well done score by Edward Shearmur, and a very cool soundtrack that screams what we call now, classic rock. Songs like Suzy Q by Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Spinning Wheel by Blood, Sweat, and Tears.

Uncle G Rates … Elvis & Nixon (2016 Amazon Studios):

Using the same rating ten star rating system as the IMDb website, whereas one star means it’s horrible, to ten stars in which Elvis would rate his favorite sandwich on the Earth, peanut butter and banana, … I give the 2016 movie, ‘Nixon & Elvis’ … 10 stars. Not an historical event serious enough that it changed the world. Both men, notorious for being critical of others. Not a surprise these two would find common ground, and get along.

Weblinks:

Official Website: http://www.bleeckerstreetmedia.com/elvisandnixon

photo Elvis amp Nixon - Blu-ray_zpsdxec9kiq.jpg

Netflix: https://dvd.netflix.com/Movie/Elvis-Nixon/80064336

Movie Review: The VVitch_A New-England Folktale

First Published: 13 July 2016
Uncle G’s FUN Movie Reviews
Spotlight: The VVitch_A New-England Folktale (2015)
By: Gary “Uncle G” Brown
Twitter @GBrown0816

The odd spelling of ‘The Witch’ jumped out at me first; The VVitch. Followed by the subtitle; A New England Folktale. It certainly catches the eye, which I’m sure it was intended to do. I actually passed on this movie when first seeing it offered on Netflix, and then did so a few more times, before finally deciding to give it a go. After the third or fourth pass but continuing to notice the film’s poster, I figured what the hell. And also, Netflix’s summary sparked an interest. The story itself, takes place in the 17th century. After all, I am on record as saying I do like historical period pieces. It was also categorized, an indie horror movie, and as anyone knows who read my movie reviews before, know I also dig independent B horror films. Sometimes having less money, means the ones involved try harder. Doing more with less. Two quick examples; John Carpenter’s Halloween / Sam Raimi’s Evil Dead.

Opening up another browser, I decided to do a little more research before committing to the selection. I found out the film was released at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival (Winner: Best Director), and then made available to the masses, the beginning of this year. Is said to have cost about three million to make, and up to this point, grossed over thirteen times that according to the website, Box Office Mojo. Out on disc a couple months ago. Putting everything together, ‘The Witch’ certainly met my criteria. Added it to my Netflix queue, and before I knew it, the Blu-ray was in my snail mailbox. That evening, having some candy and a cold drink, I watched the previews that were also on the Blu-ray, and then settled in to view the main feature.

photo The Witch 2016 - poster - 03_zpsss3pbcvx.jpg

The story starts showing a family in a courtroom like setting, being banished from the Puritan colony, in which they were making a home. Possibly, a difference of opinion. The next scene shows a beat up horse and carriage departing the settlement and venturing off to parts unknown. Inside, a middle aged man of strict religious beliefs, his wife, their four children of various ages, and all their earthly belongings. Off they went, heading deep into the forest to find themselves a new place to call home. Upon finding land that the elders believe will suffice their needs, they settle in, building a home and farm in the process. At first, it appears to be the ideal life. The couple has another child. But all is not what it seems to be. For sharing the same woods as them, is a witch. The nastiest of it’s kind. The newborn disappears. Their harvest is deemed worthless. An older child after going missing, returns naked and evidently bewitched. These chain of events, have the otherwise tight knit family unit, question their own past actions, and what children that are left, accuse each other of wickedness. And all while this is going on, they had best keep an eye on their outside critters. For one especially is keeping an eye on them.

I conclude after seeing ‘The Witch’ that it was superbly written and directed. All by one man, Robert Eggers. Unbelievably, his first time receiving director’s credit. The man hit a home run! Besides a well written story, ‘The Witch’ is spot on regarding its verbal and visual authenticity. And as for the horror aspects of it, I can say that what’s brought forth on the screen is capable of sending shivers of terror down the spine of many. Frankly, I was not expecting a movie of such high quality. One would think it launched Mr. Eggers and all those associated career’s, well into Hollywood’s stratosphere.

Uncle G Rates … The VVitch – A New-England Folktale

Using the same rating system as the IMDb website uses whereas one star means it’s horrible, to ten stars which signals it being the best possibly created, I give the indie motion picture The VVitch – A New-England Folktale … 10 stars! Regarding the actors, the one portraying the family, especially deserve high praise. And a tip of the hat for those behind the costumes. The sets as well. A well done job indeed! Count me as as to being a new follower of writer / director Robert Eggers. His solid script, and a vision as to how it should be filmed, clinched my regard as to The VVitch – A New-England Folktale, being a motion picture that if a fan of these type films, simply shouldn’t be missed.

Blu-Ray: Includes very good bonus features, including a documentary called, “The Witch: A Primitive Tale”, which acts as a behind the scenes / making of the film, and also a very informative half hour Question and Answer Session with experts from the time period (1700’s), plus the writer / director, and one of it’s stars, the very beautiful and talented, Anya Taylor-Joy.

Movie Review: Deathgasm

First Published: 18 Jan 2016
Uncle G’s After Hours FUN Movie Reviews
Spotlight: Deathgasm (2015 Unrated)
By: Gary “Uncle G” Brown
Twitter @GBrown0816

So entering the new year, I decided to drop the streaming service Hulu, and instead, subscribe to Netflix. Doing it old school, receiving discs, and then sending them back after viewing, in the postage free envelope that is provided. Wasn’t that anything was wrong with Hulu. Enjoyed using their service very much! Thing is I moved, and where I am located now the Internet service is somewhat spotty at best. Am using my cell phone as a means to get online (tethering). Requires discipline so not to use up all the data I have in a few Internet sittings. Streaming tv shows and movies via my cell phone, quickly EATS up mt data allowance. So as much as I liked being subscribed to Hulu, it just wasn’t practical for my new surroundings. Will one day be able to stream unlimited. Just a matter of time my carrier (Cricket) does this, so to compete with those that already do (T-Mobile). Agreed, it does suck being somewhat limited to what I can do online. What can I say? Grateful for what I have until things change for the better.

Ends up the first movie I ordered from Netflix was; Furious 7 (2015). I had watched all the other ones in the franchise. The newest one came out last summer. I was too busy doing other shit, so not able to swing by a movie theather to go check it out. Now since viewed, I can say it touched on being cartoonish / unbelieveable, but like the others before it, didn’t let me down. Very entertaining! That and I admit to having a crush on actress Michelle Rodriquez. Rest in peace; Paul Walker.

Being new to Netflix, means starting off with a nice and empty queue. Next step for me was to start filling it up. I’m mainly looking for movies. That’s what Netflix is known for right? And Netflix has such a HUGE collection, I really didn’t know where to start. Found and ordered ‘Furious 7’ by putting the title in the search engine. I knew I wanted to see that, before even signing up. First month of Netflix is FREE (hooray). So once that action film was ordered, I asked myself, I said; “Self, what movie do I want to see next, and possibly even type a review for the classic rock station I write for?” ‘Furious 7’ I watched just so I could chill. Moving took a lot out of me. Seeing a movie while having the intent of also writing about it, are two different things. That’s more like work. So with that in mind, I started carefully poking around the movie categories that Netflix had to offer.

One of my first selections was the horror category, and almost immediately the poster artwork for a newly released horror / comedy film out of New Zealand, caught my eye. It’s title; Deathgasm. Not knowing really anything about New Zealand cinema, I guessed by looking at the artwork and the brief description, this was equal to what we here in the United States would call a Comedy / Horror B Movie. Think Sam Raimi’s Evil Dead franchise. Started off as an independent film made by who could be called back then, amateur filmmakers. Money to pay the bills occured, was provided by private investors. When released, movie goers in general, just ate it up. Spawned two sequels, video games, and a new television program (Ash Vs. Evil Dead) that I have not caught yet, but will.

So what exactly is Deathgasm?

Like I said, it’s a new solid horror / comedy film. Written and directed by a real metalhead, Jason Lei Howden, and filmed in New Zealand.

Deathgasm has … very well done opening credits / graphics.

Deathgasm is … a dark tale that centers around teens who are into metal rock music.

Deathgasm is … a cool ass movie that includes good looking ladies, and also demonstrates how to protect oneself from demons, with sex toys. For the females reading this, the guys could be cute looking, or whatever. I’m old school hetero. Am certain the flick contains enough sex appeal for everyone.

Deathgasm is … extremely funny at times, and over the top gross in others. Includes more vomiting that I think I ever seen depicted in any movie.

Deathgasm is … chainsaw action beyond belief!

Deathgasm is … eye candy to the tenth power. The folks behind the scenes did so seriously well, that it’s worth reading the closing credits just to see who did what, all the way to the very END.

Deathgasm is … DEMONS! The kind that scare the shit out of people. And very well done special effects that appeared more old school than computer animated. Either due to a tight budget, or an added effort to make the film more overall appealing? The end results work for me!

Deathgasm ROCKS … how could a film about real metalheads not? Volume to eleven! Presented in a way that’s not overbearing. Am not afraid to say I dug the instrumental labeled; The Black Hymn. Has a certain Black Sabbath vibe to it. Being a reporter on classic rock, it’s a popular notion that the band from Birmingham (UK) gave metal it’s birth.

Deathgasm is … pot friendly, as one might expect when about heavy metal rock music. For the film over all don’t stereotype or make fun of metalheads, but instead tries to show what being a metalhead is sincerely all about.

Deathgasm is OK … with casual sex as well. On the flip side, Deathgasm is not too nice to the religious couple, that Brodie, a main character, is assigned to live with after his Mother goes on a Meth binge. Their son, Brodie’s cousin, a bully / piece of shit. All three in this family unit, are heavily into casting judgement on others. A good story within a story.

Deathgasm includes … a cool looking metal handshake worth learning. Remember the line; Brotherhood of Steel.

Deathgasm Blu-ray Bonus Features … are very well done. Nothing bored me. Coming attractions / movie trailers was wicked as hell. Informative and entertaining behind the scenes featurettes. I dug the Director / Writer Commentary by Jason, who provided much behind the scenes detail.

In total, I watched Deathgasm three times; two regular and one with commentary by a very promising, up and coming director / writer; Jason Lei Howden. Dude, did an incredible job! Got my attention like legendary John Carpenter did with Halloween (1978). I’m looking forward to many good things coming from Mr. Howden as time marches on. I foresee besides other well made films about other topics, multiple Deathgasms in Jason’s future. Hopefully each as mind blowing as the original.

*Uncle G Rating*

Using the one to ten star rating system, whereas one star means it’s not worth demon snot, to ten starts which means it’s cool to spend your well earned money on it, Uncle G gives Deathgasm … 10 stars! Remember, I viewed this THREE times. I hardly ever watch a movie, no matter how good it is, twice. Seriously, I can’t think of any way to improve what I experienced giving multiple views to Deathgasm. Mister Howden did his job, very well. As did the cast and crew. Best actress in a horror / comedy film award needs to go to Kimberley Crossman. An outstanding transformation starting from being a bully’s girlfriend / metal virgin, to Brodie’s old lady / metal expert. My favorite scene involves her and an ax.

Tomorrow my Blu-ray disc of Deathgasm goes back to Netflix. I understand the films being sold at local retailers and at a reasonable price. For those who collect, it’s worth getting. For those into this type of entertainment, easily understood after witnessing for yourself.

photo Deathgasm - Walmart Renamed_New Poster Art_zpsreqbgsqq.jpg

Note: Deathgasm was re-named for Walmart distribution; Heavy Metal Apocalypse. Besides the name change, new cover art was created removing any signs of what they believed to be heavy satanism. This is censoring / censorship. In the new poster art, a GUN was added. Possible product placement? Uncle G feels this type of behaviour, is totally unnecessary. In 2016, people realize that a movie like Deathgasm, has a primary purpose to entertain. Not to freak out Christians. This is all in good fun … period. Good news is no matter what Walmart calls it, that it’s STILL A SOLID MOVIE \m/

Official Deathgasm Website: www.deathgasmthemovie.com

Oh…cool music video. Music by New Zealand’s Bulletbelt.

Uncle G’s Fun Movie Reviews_Bloodsucking Bastards

First Published: 20 May 2016
Uncle G’s FUN Movie Reviews
Spotlight: Bloodsucking Bastards (2015)
By: Gary “Uncle G” Brown
Twitter @GBrown0816

Back in 2008, vampires movies were forever changed by the downright horrible, yet popular teen Twilight films. These motion pictures made so much money, that whatever story one could insert a vampire in, was done, so to also cash in on the fad. Besides films, television programs, and books, also polluted the landscape. Worse thing was most times, they made these bloodsucking walking and talking corpses, the most un-coolest characters one could imagine. They had emotions, and feelings. Storylines were filled with angst. People like myself who grew up with old school Bela Lugosi, or Christopher Lee’s evil Prince Of Darkness, was instantly repelled by this girlie new version of one of cinema’s most popular monsters. Personally, I quit watching anything with a vampire storyline in it. In my opinion, all this new vampire stuff sucked, and it wasn’t nowhere near in a good way.

Seven years from when that first Kristen Stewart snooze fest hit the silver screen, here comes an indie film centering around vampires called;Bloodsucking Bastards. Found it on Netflix. Great title! Caught my attention. Then I saw it starred actor Fran Kranz (The Cabin In The Woods), who had a terrific role in Joss Whedon’s TV show; Dollhouse (2009 – 2010). An episodic television hour long sci-fi / drama that in my opinion, was prematurely yanked off the air. So Fran’s involvement made me even more interested. A little more research showed ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ to be a unrated American comedy / horror indie offering, clocking in at just under ninety minutes. Good enough for me. My boycott of vampires movies, was over. I added it to my Netflix queue, placing it third behind the newest Quentin Tarantino offering, The Hateful Eight, and a movie that I had several friends recommend to me called, The Big Short. Years ago I was a loan officer for a division of Countrywide Home Loans (Full Spectrum Lending) that specialized in subprime lending. Stressful, yet I was compensated well which motivated me to continually deal with the day to day hassles. Back to Netflix, neither movie title was in my snail mailbox the next time it came to receiving an envelope from the rental giant, but ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ (Blu-ray_Scream Factory) was.

Like ‘The Big Short’, ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ takes place in the white collar office world. A present day blood-soaked tale directed by Brian James O’Connell, with major involvement by Dr. God, in which the director is a part of. A Los Angeles based comedy group that before viewing ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’, I didn’t know existed. Better late than never to jump on the fan bandwagon. According to Internet research, Dr. God consists of five people; BOC (Brian James O’Connell), Sean Cowhig, Neil Garguilo, David Park, and Justin Ware. Now on my radar, it should be interesting to say the least, keeping up on them.

Viewing ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ twice (the second time in commentary mode), and without giving away the whole thing, here’s a few things that I really liked best:01.) The Acting: From the main cast to the supporting players, all did a really bang up job. The ones I liked their performances the most; Fran Kranz (Evan), Joey Kern (Tim), Emma Fitzpatrick (Amanda), and Marshall Givens (Frank aka Mr. Red Bull … a one of a kind performance / character). Basically these are the main stars of this feature. A combined effort by all involved, including those behind the scenes, is what made this work as well as it did.

02.) Story: One that adults like myself could chill out to, and enjoy. I’m a 54 year old man. The teen shit I can appreciate at times, but it’s not what I’m looking for in a nights entertainment. Unrated, one can call this adult fare. No nudity, but there is some cursing, which is fine. Matter of fact, the funniest moments involve blue language.

03.) Mean Vampires: They kill with glee. The way it should be. And it’s just awesome watching them perish when their time comes.

04.) Filming: Indie films as a rule, usually have some kind of financial restraints. Starts with a solid story. All through production it’s a struggle of having to do more, with less. A challenge I always find interesting, and explains why at least in part, why I seem to prefer independent movies more often than BIG Hollywood.

‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ has just as good a look / sound to it, as the major popcorn flicks one will find at the local cinema. And I’m sure it didn’t cost half a billion dollars to create. Seriously, when you have that much funds available, and are able to hire the best talent in front of, and behind the camera, how can you flop? Yet it happens all the time.

Weird in a way. I typically expect less from indie movies, and as with ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ got more. With BIG Hollywood presentations I expect more, and typically get less. Adding to the assault on my wallet, an insult to one’s intelligence.

Uncle G Rates … Bloodsucking Bastards

Using the one to ten star system that the iMDB website uses, whereas one star means it blows chunks and should be avoided at all costs, to ten stars which means … holy shit this film was rated 10 stars, Uncle G rates ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ … 10 stars. Wow!

I pay a ten spot a month for snail mail Netflix. If I would have went out to a theater and seen ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ on the big screen for ten bucks, I’d be happy. The money I put out to be entertained, means a lot to me. If I give a stripper a dollar I expect … only kidding. I’m nearing nine hundred words now. Just seeing if you the reader, are still paying attention. All kidding aside, nearing age 55, besides money, I don’t like to waste time. No such thing happened viewing ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’. And remember, I watched it twice, listening to the commentary by Dr. God the second time around.

Blu-ray Disc: Nice job by Scream Factory. Well put together. Cool bonus features / easter eggs. I recommend not only renting ‘Bloodsucking Bastards’ like from Netflix, but also purchasing. Something extra special for those who still collect discs, and are not into streaming.

Official Website: http://www.bloodsuckingbastards.com/