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An Interview With ‘The Outwaters’ Writer-Director Robbie Banfitch

The genre has a new found footage horror film, The Outwaters, which sees the discovery of videos left behind by a couple exploring the desert. We sat down with the film’s writer-director and actor, Robbie Banfitch, to discuss the movie that opened in select theaters on the 9th. In the film, “Memory cards unearthed in a remote stretch of the Mojave Desert tell the story of four travelers who vanished during a sun-drenched camping trip. One night, everything changes when the foursome is sent on a mind-bending voyage of unrelenting terror into a world of darkness that no human was ever meant to see.” The visceral film had an award-winning festival run — where it was hailed as one of the year’s scariest movies. The Outwaters stars writer-director Robert Banfitch, Angela Basolis, Michelle May, Scott Schamell, and Leslie Ann Banfitch, featuring original Salem Belladonna music. It is produced by Beau J. Genot and Banfitch, with Robert Abramoff serving as executive

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Feb 11, 2023

Co-Directors Manuel Camilion and Benjamin Edelman Talk ‘Santastein’

This time of year, nothing is better than holiday-themed horror films. When the press release for the upcoming movie Santastein came across my desk, I wanted to know more, so I reached out to its co-directors, to learn more about the film, which has an exciting concept that combines Santa with Frankenstein. In the film, inspired by a short film, “Max Causey was only six years old when he accidentally burned Santa to a crisp on Christmas Eve. 12 years later, Max attempts to raise Santa from the dead in order to fix his past mistakes and restore the Christmas spirit. But he soon realizes that the creature he has created is a bloodthirsty killer – and it’s headed straight for his friend’s Christmas party!” https://soundcloud.com/kelli-r-marchman-mcneely/interview-with-directors-manuel-camilion-and-benjamin-edelman?si=5ee19e5c64e1430f87cdd6ce7f28d46b&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Kelli: “Now, all right, so tell me about Santastein, or Santastein, actually.” Manuel: “It’s a common misnomer. People mix it up a lot. Ben, you want to start, or should I?” Ben: “Go ahead,

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 23, 2022

Filmmaker Anubys Lopez Talks About His New Horror ‘Those Who Call’

Tyro filmmaker Anubys Lopez has crafted the terrifically unnerving Those Who Call, releasing from Uncork’d Entertainment on January 10, 2023. The film, starring Angie Sandoval, Yetlanezi Rodriguez, Reese Fast, Kevin Kinkade, and Addison Cousins, tells of two sisters that go on a road trip to Colorado. On their way there, their car breaks down in an abandoned old town. Soon they realize things aren’t what they seem, and they aren’t alone in the forest. They find themselves being hunted by a sadistic pagan cult and must do everything in their power to survive. Ella: “Thanks for the unnerving scares – – unnerving. Is there any other way to describe the film?” Anubys: “I appreciate you taking the time to watch it. Unnerving is definitely a good way to describe it. I’d say other ways would be distressing and claustrophobic. We wanted people to feel trapped and stalked throughout the entire film. In a constant state of fear. Like anything could

Continue reading →
Ella Rebecca Horton
Dec 21, 2022

Writer-Director Casper Kelly Discusses Adult Swim’s Surprise Horror Movie

Adult Swim’s first feature horror film made its debut earlier in the week under the guise of a Yuletide Log. Moments into the video of the crackling fireplace we begin to hear talking and soon we see a murder. Then we watch as a group of friends enters the frame only for them to quickly begin to experience both paranormal events and a deranged killer. The unexpected, entertaining movie is from Adult Swim veteran Casper Kelly, who directs after writing Adult Swim series such as “Too Many Cooks” and “Your Pretty Face Is Going To Hell”, as well as the hit Nicholas Cage movie, Mandy. I spoke with Kelly about The Fire Place, the movie within the Yule Log video. That is not only available on Adult Swim, but HBOMax as well. https://soundcloud.com/kelli-r-marchman-mcneely/an-interview-with-adult-swims-casper-kelly?si=686d338ece974c858d0afd51599b7137&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Transcript: Kelli: “It’s nice to meet you too. I have to say I love your work.” Casper: “Oh, thank you.” Kelli: “Too many cooks and just, it’s

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 18, 2022

‘Mindcage’ Director Mauro Borrelli Discusses The Horror-Thriller Ahead Of Its Release

Mauro Borrelli, director of The Recall, Star Wars: VIII: The Last Jedi, and who has worked on films such as The Hateful Eight, Captain America: First Avenger, and The Wolfman, sat down with us to talk about his upcoming horror-thriller Mind Cage, Starring John Malkovich (In the Line of Fire), Martin Lawrence (“Martin”), and Melissa Roxburgh (Star Trek Beyond), the film centers on detectives Jake Doyle (Martin Lawrence) and Mary Kelly (Melissa Roxburgh), who seek help from an incarcerated serial killer known as “The Artist” (John Malkovich) when a copycat killer strikes. While Mary searches for clues in “The Artist’s” brilliant but twisted psyche, she and Jake are lured into a sinister game of cat and mouse, racing against time to stay one step ahead of “The Artist” and his copycat. Kelli: “You have a fantastic portfolio of films you’ve worked on. How did you go from the art department working on things like Sleepy Hollow and Captain America to

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 15, 2022

‘Annabelle’ Director John Leonetti Discusses New Film ‘Lullaby’ In Our Interview

John R. Leonetti is known for directing movies like Annabelle, Wish Upon, and episodes of series such as “Sleepy Hollow.” He’s also recognized for his excellent skills as a cinematographer for films The Conjuring, Insidious: Chapter 2, and Piranha 3D, as well as many more. I had the absolute pleasure of talking with John about his past hits and his soon-to-be-released horror film, Lullaby. Lullaby follows a new mother who discovers a lullaby in an ancient book and soon regards the song as a blessing. But her world transforms into a nightmare when the Lullaby brings forth the ancient demon Lilith.” https://soundcloud.com/kelli-r-marchman-mcneely/interview-with-director-john-leonetti?si=15267b17524045eba226df7dceab5210&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Kelli: “So let’s talk about Lullaby?” John: “Sure.” Kelli: “I thought the story was a great idea. We rarely ever hear much about Lilith.” John: “I agree with you. By the way.” Kelli: “How did she become part of the story?” John: “Well, you know, honestly, when I read the script, I didn’t know anything about Lilith. When

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 14, 2022

Writer-Director Lori Evans Taylor Gets Candid About Her Inspiration For ‘Bed Rest’ In Our Interview

Before my conversation with writer-director Lori Evans Taylor, I sat down. I watched her soon-to-be-released horror film Bed Rest, starring Scream actress Melissa Barrera and Guy Burnet, and it hit me hard. In the film, a Tubi Original, “After years of struggling to start a family, Julie Rivers (Barrera) is pregnant again and moving into a new home with her husband as they embrace a fresh start. Upon being ordered to mandatory bed rest, Julie slowly unravels as she suffers through the monotony and anxiety of her new constraints. Soon, terrifying ghostly experiences in the home begin to close in on Julie, stirring up her past demons and causing others to question her mental stability. Trapped and forced to face her past and the supernatural, Julie fights to protect herself and her unborn baby.” I should also mention that Taylor is currently co-writing the upcoming Final Destination 6 movie. I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love the franchise

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 8, 2022

“Reginald The Vampire” Stars Talk Body Positivity, Acting & More In Our Interview

Last month SYFY’s new series “Reginald the Vampire” made its premiere. A mix of horror and comedy, with a dash of drama, the series follows Reginald (Jacob Batalon), a down-and-out guy, who is way too nice, as he copes with life as a newly made vampire sired by Maurice (Mandela Van Peebles). Reginald is caught up in the dangerous world and politics of the undead and the drama between Maurice and his sire/ex Angela (Savannah Basley), all while trying to maintain his humanity so he can be with the girl of his dreams (Em Haine). We talked with Mandela and Savannah about their characters and got their take on the series that airs on both SYFY and USA right after episodes of season 2 of “Chucky.” Mandela: “Tell us about your relationship with Reginald. It seems like he wants to be friends with Reginald, but he also kind of feels burdened by him.” Mandela: “I think as far as the

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Nov 21, 2022

Actor-Director Noah Sagan Talks Vampires And Family In Our ‘Blood Relatives’ Interview

After watching the new vampire movie Blood Relatives, a unique combination of horror, comedy, and family drama, I had the opportunity to pick the brain of its writer-director and actor Noah Sagan (Knives Out) about the film and what makes it so unique. In Blood Relatives, “A vampire’s loner lifestyle is thrown into disarray when a teenager shows up claiming to be his daughter, and she’s got the fangs to prove it. On a road trip across America’s blacktops, they decide how to sink their teeth into family life.” Kelli: “I really enjoyed your movie Blood Relatives. It’s an interesting combination of vampires, horror and family drama, and comedy mixed together.” Noah: “Oh, thank you. I appreciate it. I tried to throw the kitchen sink at it [laughter].” Kelli: “It’s great. How did the movie come to be? Noah: “Honestly, it all started with my becoming a father really. I had spent my career being an actor and having also

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Nov 18, 2022

Director Mark Hartley Discusses New Serial Killer Thriller ‘Girl At The Window’

After watching the intense thriller Girl at the Window, I had chat with its director Mark Hartley, who is known for his work in documentaries, such as Electric Boogaloo. In Girl at the Window, Amy (Ella Newton) and her mother (Radha Mitchell) move to a new home. Amy sees weird activity – her neighbor comes and goes at strange hours and she hears screams. Is her new neighbor and her mother’s new love interest the serial killer that’s killing her classmates? Kelli: “I watched your new movie, Girl at the Window. I really enjoyed it. Mark: “Well, I’m glad to hear that.” Kelli: “There’s not a ton of gore but when there is it’s impressive. I loved the eyeball thing. It looked great.” Mark: “Originally that scene was going to be shot with a piece of paper with a slit in it, but the makeup guy showed up with this elaborate mechanism he had built for it. It was hardcore.”

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Nov 14, 2022

More from Interviews

An Interview With ‘The Outwaters’ Writer-Director Robbie Banfitch

The genre has a new found footage horror film, The Outwaters, which sees the discovery of videos left behind by a couple exploring the desert. We sat down with the film’s writer-director and actor, Robbie Banfitch, to discuss the movie that opened in select theaters on the 9th. In the film, “Memory cards unearthed in a remote stretch of the Mojave Desert tell the story of four travelers who vanished during a sun-drenched camping trip. One night, everything changes when the foursome is sent on a mind-bending voyage of unrelenting terror into a world of darkness that no human was ever meant to see.” The visceral film had an award-winning festival run — where it was hailed as one of the year’s scariest movies. The Outwaters stars writer-director Robert Banfitch, Angela Basolis, Michelle May, Scott Schamell, and Leslie Ann Banfitch, featuring original Salem Belladonna music. It is produced by Beau J. Genot and Banfitch, with Robert Abramoff serving as executive

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Feb 11, 2023

Co-Directors Manuel Camilion and Benjamin Edelman Talk ‘Santastein’

This time of year, nothing is better than holiday-themed horror films. When the press release for the upcoming movie Santastein came across my desk, I wanted to know more, so I reached out to its co-directors, to learn more about the film, which has an exciting concept that combines Santa with Frankenstein. In the film, inspired by a short film, “Max Causey was only six years old when he accidentally burned Santa to a crisp on Christmas Eve. 12 years later, Max attempts to raise Santa from the dead in order to fix his past mistakes and restore the Christmas spirit. But he soon realizes that the creature he has created is a bloodthirsty killer – and it’s headed straight for his friend’s Christmas party!” https://soundcloud.com/kelli-r-marchman-mcneely/interview-with-directors-manuel-camilion-and-benjamin-edelman?si=5ee19e5c64e1430f87cdd6ce7f28d46b&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Kelli: “Now, all right, so tell me about Santastein, or Santastein, actually.” Manuel: “It’s a common misnomer. People mix it up a lot. Ben, you want to start, or should I?” Ben: “Go ahead,

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 23, 2022

Filmmaker Anubys Lopez Talks About His New Horror ‘Those Who Call’

Tyro filmmaker Anubys Lopez has crafted the terrifically unnerving Those Who Call, releasing from Uncork’d Entertainment on January 10, 2023. The film, starring Angie Sandoval, Yetlanezi Rodriguez, Reese Fast, Kevin Kinkade, and Addison Cousins, tells of two sisters that go on a road trip to Colorado. On their way there, their car breaks down in an abandoned old town. Soon they realize things aren’t what they seem, and they aren’t alone in the forest. They find themselves being hunted by a sadistic pagan cult and must do everything in their power to survive. Ella: “Thanks for the unnerving scares – – unnerving. Is there any other way to describe the film?” Anubys: “I appreciate you taking the time to watch it. Unnerving is definitely a good way to describe it. I’d say other ways would be distressing and claustrophobic. We wanted people to feel trapped and stalked throughout the entire film. In a constant state of fear. Like anything could

Continue reading →
Ella Rebecca Horton
Dec 21, 2022

Writer-Director Casper Kelly Discusses Adult Swim’s Surprise Horror Movie

Adult Swim’s first feature horror film made its debut earlier in the week under the guise of a Yuletide Log. Moments into the video of the crackling fireplace we begin to hear talking and soon we see a murder. Then we watch as a group of friends enters the frame only for them to quickly begin to experience both paranormal events and a deranged killer. The unexpected, entertaining movie is from Adult Swim veteran Casper Kelly, who directs after writing Adult Swim series such as “Too Many Cooks” and “Your Pretty Face Is Going To Hell”, as well as the hit Nicholas Cage movie, Mandy. I spoke with Kelly about The Fire Place, the movie within the Yule Log video. That is not only available on Adult Swim, but HBOMax as well. https://soundcloud.com/kelli-r-marchman-mcneely/an-interview-with-adult-swims-casper-kelly?si=686d338ece974c858d0afd51599b7137&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Transcript: Kelli: “It’s nice to meet you too. I have to say I love your work.” Casper: “Oh, thank you.” Kelli: “Too many cooks and just, it’s

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 18, 2022

‘Mindcage’ Director Mauro Borrelli Discusses The Horror-Thriller Ahead Of Its Release

Mauro Borrelli, director of The Recall, Star Wars: VIII: The Last Jedi, and who has worked on films such as The Hateful Eight, Captain America: First Avenger, and The Wolfman, sat down with us to talk about his upcoming horror-thriller Mind Cage, Starring John Malkovich (In the Line of Fire), Martin Lawrence (“Martin”), and Melissa Roxburgh (Star Trek Beyond), the film centers on detectives Jake Doyle (Martin Lawrence) and Mary Kelly (Melissa Roxburgh), who seek help from an incarcerated serial killer known as “The Artist” (John Malkovich) when a copycat killer strikes. While Mary searches for clues in “The Artist’s” brilliant but twisted psyche, she and Jake are lured into a sinister game of cat and mouse, racing against time to stay one step ahead of “The Artist” and his copycat. Kelli: “You have a fantastic portfolio of films you’ve worked on. How did you go from the art department working on things like Sleepy Hollow and Captain America to

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 15, 2022

‘Annabelle’ Director John Leonetti Discusses New Film ‘Lullaby’ In Our Interview

John R. Leonetti is known for directing movies like Annabelle, Wish Upon, and episodes of series such as “Sleepy Hollow.” He’s also recognized for his excellent skills as a cinematographer for films The Conjuring, Insidious: Chapter 2, and Piranha 3D, as well as many more. I had the absolute pleasure of talking with John about his past hits and his soon-to-be-released horror film, Lullaby. Lullaby follows a new mother who discovers a lullaby in an ancient book and soon regards the song as a blessing. But her world transforms into a nightmare when the Lullaby brings forth the ancient demon Lilith.” https://soundcloud.com/kelli-r-marchman-mcneely/interview-with-director-john-leonetti?si=15267b17524045eba226df7dceab5210&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Kelli: “So let’s talk about Lullaby?” John: “Sure.” Kelli: “I thought the story was a great idea. We rarely ever hear much about Lilith.” John: “I agree with you. By the way.” Kelli: “How did she become part of the story?” John: “Well, you know, honestly, when I read the script, I didn’t know anything about Lilith. When

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 14, 2022

Writer-Director Lori Evans Taylor Gets Candid About Her Inspiration For ‘Bed Rest’ In Our Interview

Before my conversation with writer-director Lori Evans Taylor, I sat down. I watched her soon-to-be-released horror film Bed Rest, starring Scream actress Melissa Barrera and Guy Burnet, and it hit me hard. In the film, a Tubi Original, “After years of struggling to start a family, Julie Rivers (Barrera) is pregnant again and moving into a new home with her husband as they embrace a fresh start. Upon being ordered to mandatory bed rest, Julie slowly unravels as she suffers through the monotony and anxiety of her new constraints. Soon, terrifying ghostly experiences in the home begin to close in on Julie, stirring up her past demons and causing others to question her mental stability. Trapped and forced to face her past and the supernatural, Julie fights to protect herself and her unborn baby.” I should also mention that Taylor is currently co-writing the upcoming Final Destination 6 movie. I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love the franchise

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Dec 8, 2022

“Reginald The Vampire” Stars Talk Body Positivity, Acting & More In Our Interview

Last month SYFY’s new series “Reginald the Vampire” made its premiere. A mix of horror and comedy, with a dash of drama, the series follows Reginald (Jacob Batalon), a down-and-out guy, who is way too nice, as he copes with life as a newly made vampire sired by Maurice (Mandela Van Peebles). Reginald is caught up in the dangerous world and politics of the undead and the drama between Maurice and his sire/ex Angela (Savannah Basley), all while trying to maintain his humanity so he can be with the girl of his dreams (Em Haine). We talked with Mandela and Savannah about their characters and got their take on the series that airs on both SYFY and USA right after episodes of season 2 of “Chucky.” Mandela: “Tell us about your relationship with Reginald. It seems like he wants to be friends with Reginald, but he also kind of feels burdened by him.” Mandela: “I think as far as the

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Nov 21, 2022

Actor-Director Noah Sagan Talks Vampires And Family In Our ‘Blood Relatives’ Interview

After watching the new vampire movie Blood Relatives, a unique combination of horror, comedy, and family drama, I had the opportunity to pick the brain of its writer-director and actor Noah Sagan (Knives Out) about the film and what makes it so unique. In Blood Relatives, “A vampire’s loner lifestyle is thrown into disarray when a teenager shows up claiming to be his daughter, and she’s got the fangs to prove it. On a road trip across America’s blacktops, they decide how to sink their teeth into family life.” Kelli: “I really enjoyed your movie Blood Relatives. It’s an interesting combination of vampires, horror and family drama, and comedy mixed together.” Noah: “Oh, thank you. I appreciate it. I tried to throw the kitchen sink at it [laughter].” Kelli: “It’s great. How did the movie come to be? Noah: “Honestly, it all started with my becoming a father really. I had spent my career being an actor and having also

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Nov 18, 2022

Director Mark Hartley Discusses New Serial Killer Thriller ‘Girl At The Window’

After watching the intense thriller Girl at the Window, I had chat with its director Mark Hartley, who is known for his work in documentaries, such as Electric Boogaloo. In Girl at the Window, Amy (Ella Newton) and her mother (Radha Mitchell) move to a new home. Amy sees weird activity – her neighbor comes and goes at strange hours and she hears screams. Is her new neighbor and her mother’s new love interest the serial killer that’s killing her classmates? Kelli: “I watched your new movie, Girl at the Window. I really enjoyed it. Mark: “Well, I’m glad to hear that.” Kelli: “There’s not a ton of gore but when there is it’s impressive. I loved the eyeball thing. It looked great.” Mark: “Originally that scene was going to be shot with a piece of paper with a slit in it, but the makeup guy showed up with this elaborate mechanism he had built for it. It was hardcore.”

Continue reading →
Kelli Marchman McNeely
Nov 14, 2022
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