Brave New World, Tentative Version, Part 2: Ad Lib - Short Film Review

Intrigued by how AI can impact my writing, I'm presenting side-by-side comparisons of past articles and their revisions made with Google's Gemini AI. Brace yourselves! 

AI Version of an article that appeared here

Here is the edited content for style and clarity:

Understanding Why Victims Stay: Unveiling the Cycle of Abuse in "Ad Lib"

Many outsiders struggle to grasp why someone would remain in a domestically abusive relationship. The truth is, unseen but powerful forces keep victims trapped in these toxic cycles. Abusers are masters of manipulation and control, exploiting their partners' insecurities to weave intricate webs of dependence. Writer-director Joseph Catté's poignant short film, "Ad Lib," offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of a couple caught in this dangerous pattern, highlighting its ripple effects on others.

A Song of Sorrow and Manipulation:

Leaving a karaoke party, Julie (Pauline Helly) simmers with jealousy towards her boyfriend, Max (Thomas Alden). Mirroring the songs they belted out moments ago, their dialogue unfolds as scrolling lyrics on screen. To appease her, Max launches into a Hollywood-style serenade, professing his love. Initially resistant, Julie succumbs, joining him in the dance. His promises of devotion end with him forcefully embracing her, the joy fading from her face. Back at their apartment, Max provokes an argument that escalates into violence. Julie's roommate (Nouritza Emmanuelian) attempts to call for help, but Max silences her, literally snatching her words from the screen and shoving them back into her mouth.

Breaking the Melody, Not the Cycle:

With his grip on Julie's roommate tightened, Max uses her stolen voice to lure Julie out of the bathroom where she sought refuge. He declares her "lucky" for his love, before being knocked unconscious by the roommate wielding a candlestick. Panic gives way to relief as Julie rushes to his side, her face lighting up when he regains consciousness. The film concludes with an unsettling smile creeping across her face, perhaps anticipating the familiar cycle of reconciliation and calm that often follows the storm.

Beyond the Fantastic:

Catté explains that while music and karaoke inspired the film's style, his underlying goal was to tackle domestic violence from a fresh perspective. The idea of incorporating scrolling lyrics was sparked by observing a couple argue at a karaoke bar. He envisioned their words transforming into tangible text, creating a unique layer of interaction between his characters.

The Title's Echo:

"Ad Lib," referencing a repeated section in music, reflects the cyclical nature of Max and Julie's relationship. Throughout the night, we witness tenderness morph into jealousy, gaslighting, and violence, before Julie seeks temporary safety in the bathroom. The film ends with Julie's hopeful smile, hinting at the possibility of an illusionary calm that precedes the next eruption. Catté emphasizes that although fictional, their story mirrors countless real-life couples trapped in similar cycles, vulnerable to manipulation and repeated forgiveness.

Masterful Storytelling in Miniature:

Despite its brevity, "Ad Lib" packs a powerful punch. Catté seamlessly integrates various elements into the narrative, allowing them to unfold organically. The magical realism blends effortlessly into the world of Max and Julie, showcasing Catté's mastery of storytelling and technical prowess. The taut script avoids unnecessary details, while the camera work immerses us in Julie's emotional turmoil without judgment. Creative special effects, like the characters interacting with lyrics and Max stealing the roommate's voice, enhance the film's message.

A Short Film with Big Impact:

For viewers hesitant about short films lacking substance, "Ad Lib" delivers a world of experiences within its 10-minute runtime. It offers a captivating yet unsettling window into the realities of domestic abuse, urging audiences to confront its complexities.

Call to Action:

"Ad Lib" is currently available on YouTube. If you suspect you are in an abusive relationship (or an abuser seeking help), know that resources are available. In the United States, The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support and guidance: 1-800-799-7233. International resources can be found on domesticshelters.org.

Brave New World, Tentative Version, Part 1: Sugar Hill

Intrigued by how AI can impact my writing, I'm presenting side-by-side comparisons of past articles and their revisions made with Google's Gemini AI. Brace yourselves!


AI Version of an article that appeared here

Blaxploitation Horror: Unveiling America's Unhealed Wounds

In the 1970s, America grappled with its racist and sexist past, giving rise to powerful movements demanding equality. Popular culture, including horror, reflected these social struggles. In 1974, Paul Maslansky's blaxploitation-zombie flick, "The Emancipation of Sugar Hill," offered a potent commentary on these issues, serving as a time capsule of mid-70s America.

Redefining Blaxploitation

The term "blaxploitation" initially sparked controversy, with some finding it offensive. However, the genre also challenged negative stereotypes, showcasing strong Black protagonists fighting oppression. Notably, blaxploitation films empowered women, highlighting their fight against injustice. "Sugar Hill" stands out by utilizing supernatural forces for vengeance, adding a thrilling twist.

A Story Rooted in History

"Sugar Hill" reflects America's troubled past through its characters and themes. The white crime boss, Morgan, reminiscent of plantation owners, exploits Black communities. Sugar, conversely, embodies independence and resistance. The zombie slaves, still bearing the shackles of their brutal past, find liberation through vengeance. Even the film's religion, Voodoo, emerges from the forced blending of African traditions and imposed Christianity.

Thrills and Chills on a Budget

Despite its limitations, "Sugar Hill" delivers fast-paced excitement. Director Maslansky cleverly integrates modern elements into the Voodoo lore, grounding the film in a relatable setting. The Motown-infused theme song sets the tone, and the filmmakers effectively utilize their resources to create atmosphere, even with modest special effects. The gruesome death scenes, like Fabulous' in the massage parlor, add genuine chills.

More Than Just Revenge

While Sugar's fight involves revenge, it goes beyond personal vendetta. It encompasses reclaiming her heritage, protecting her community from racist predators, and ultimately achieving her own emancipation.

Conclusion:

The blaxploitation films of the 1970s held cultural significance by increasing Black representation, showcasing heroes of all genders, and tackling racial and gender inequalities. "The Emancipation of Sugar Hill" continues this legacy, using horror tropes to deliver a powerful social commentary that remains relevant today.

 

Week One

Welcome to Shocktoberfest 2022, the only horror movie festival curated by me! This is a list of movies I watched to prepare for Halloween, plus a thought or two. Week One is pretty long.  I wish I could watch ten horror movies a week, but work and a non horror movie loving wife need attention. But my wife was traveling and work canceled (because of Hurricane Ian), so I could dig into my Watchlist. 

Dawn Breaks Behind the Eyes (2021) First time watch! Surreal German film about a couple seeking to reconnect while exploring an old castle. Or is it? Director/writer Kevin Kopacka and co-writer Lili Villányi beguile viewers with their strange tale. This unusual ghost story has an unexpected, psychedelic twist and turns everything upside down. It is available to rent on Amazon. 9 out of 10.

Read The Banshee's review of Dawn Breaks Behind the Eyes here

Hatching (2022) First time watch! A rare treat from Finland. Writer and director Hanna Bergholm presents a fresh take on toxic and dysfunctional family relationships. Awkward 12-year-old Tinja (Siiri Solalinna) bonds with a monstrous creature she hatches from an egg and experiences the pangs of motherhood. Available from Hulu. 9 out of 10.

Heartland of Darkness (1992) First time watch! I saw this as a screener from Visual Vengeance, a movie/television studio devoted to finding forgotten films and giving them a new audience. Heartland, long considered lost, is a low budget, shot on 16 millimeter film about the devil worshiping, baby sacrificing, folks who live in America’s Heartland. This movie earns an extra point for featuring Linnea Quigley as the sexiest high school teacher since Van Halen’s Hot for Teacher video. Visual Vengeance’s Blu-ray will be available in November. 5 out of 10.

The Frenchman’s Garden (1978) First time watch! A Paul Naschy triple threat - writer (co written with Antonio Fos), director and lead actor. Although shot with great visual flare, the true story of mass-murder Andrés Aldije Monmejis is a slow and tepid drama. Naschy’s script ignores the killings and concentrates on Monmejis’ domestic life as he juggles a wife, a jealous mistress, and pregnant lover.  Mondo Macabro’s Blu-ray has an interview with Naschy and, of course, its notorious trailer reel.  6 out of 10

The Acid Eaters (1967) Other than Pat Barrington’s dancing, this film doesn’t have much to offer.  The story is simple. Released from their 9 to 5 jobs, a group of men and women ride their motorcycles into the country in search of the pyramid of LSD.  A series of bizarre adventures follow and the ladies spend a lot of time out of their clothes. TRIVIA: Punk rock pioneers the Ramones named their album of garage band covers from the sixties The Acid Eaters. 3 out of 10.

X (2022) Ti West’s homage to seventies era Grindhouse keeps getting better every time I watch it. Read my review here.  9 out of 10.

PussyCake (2022) First time watch! South America has been releasing plenty of fantastic horror films in the last several years. Thanks to streaming services, movies like Terrified  (2017), and The Last Matinee (2020) are attracting fans in the US. Argentinian director Pablo Parés sci-fi horror gore-fest about a girls rock band fighting interdimensional slug monsters is an icky mess that you won’t be able to look away from.  The slugs turn people into foam spewing zombies who propagate by vomiting into their victim’s mouths.  This is a very fluid-friendly movie.  If you thought Psycho Goreman needed more dripping entrails, this one’s for you. While not rigorous horror, director Parés and writers Maxi Ferzzola Hernán Moyano made an action-packed, fun movie with great practical effects. Available from Amazon and Google. 7 out of 10.

Read The Banshee's review of PussyCake here

Sissy (2022) First time watch! Another female-centric, fun movie.  This movie has a lot of heart and Aisha Dee as the title character does a superb job engaging the audience. A clever revenge story that takes a sudden turn, Sissy also deals with the lasting effects of bullying. Adult Sissy must face her childhood bully when she reunites with her old best friend. Streaming on Shudder. Seven out of 10. Sissy is currently streaming on Shudder – don’t hesitate to take advantage of our promo for two weeks free!

My Best Friend’s Exorcism (2022) First time watch!  This filmed version of the popular Grady Hendrix novel is another testament of high school Hell. Life can be especially difficult when a demon possesses your best bud. A great movie for younger folks and people who don’t like gory stories.  Rented from Amazon. 7 out of 10.     

Blood and Roses (1960) Roger Vadim’s early adaptation of Sheridan Le Fanu’s Carmilla is a seldom seen masterpiece.  Considered the Holy Grail among vintage Blu-ray studios like Vinegar Syndrome and Mondo Macabro, Blood and Roses is unavailable for a reissue because of extensive copyright issues. The movie is only available as pixelated YouTube videos or poor VHS to DVD-R transfers. Vadim’s use of colored lights and ancient ruins set a standard for the ethereal films of directors to come like Jean Rollin.  DVD-R from DVDLady. 10 out of 10.

What are you planning on watching this month?

Social Media Post - Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970) or Father Doesn't Always Know Best.

 Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970) or
Father Doesn't Always Know Best. 

In the fifth installment of Hammer Films’ Dracula series, director Peter Sasdy and screenwriter Anthony Hinds (as John Elder) visit the theme of corruption from the older, patriarchal generation in conflict with the youth, themes Sasdy would revisit in his script for Twins of Evil, his final Karnstein trilogy story. Count Dracula himself undergoes an unusual change as he becomes an anti-hero, removing three of society's hypocritical leaders. To do this, he sets their children against the fathers in a revenge orgy of spilled familial blood and terror.

Social Media Post - Twins of Evil (1971)

Twins of Evil (1971)

Twins of Evil (1971) is Tudor Gates' third and final screenplay of the Karnstein Trilogy for Hammer Films. Taking place long before Lust for a Vampire and The Vampire Lovers, Twins of Evil offers an origin story of the haunted, Satan worshiping Karnsteins. Instead of concentrating on supernatural creatures seeking to destroy families and corrupt their children, Twins of Evil points a finger at the men who use those stories for their own advantage. Unlike the earlier films, the lesbian vampires are practically nonexistent. Lacking the bared breasts and passionate kisses of the earlier films, the audience witnesses scene after scene of conscienceless destruction caused by the two men in the center of the story