“It’s time to howl again”. This was the tagline for 1991’s Howling VI: The Freaks, and it’s fitting because it remains one of the fan favorites of the franchise. Directed by Hope Perello.
Author Archives: Graylan Davis
Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991) [Women in Horror Month 2025]
Rachel Talalay may not be a household name, but her work touches down on a lot of familiar territory. She’s directed episodes from such shows as Supernatural, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Superman & Lois, and even Doctor Who. Continue reading
Four Brother (2005) [Black History Month]
The year was 2005. My friend had tasked me with figuring out what to do for a double date. He was eager to impress his new girlfriend, and wanted us to go see a movie. Continue reading
Friday (1995) [Black History Month]
You come into the room and see the New Line Cinema title card gracing the television screen. There’s no theme like before Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, or a horror movie, but in its place remains a voice over instead. You know the voice, you know the quote, and you know the movie.
Training Day (2001) [Black History Month]
The 80’s and 90’s saw a seemingly endless release of buddy cop films. The approach was almost always formulaic. One officer is by the books and straight laced, and the other one is a renegade with more property damage than arrests. However, despite their differences, both officers wind up overcoming whatever problem that was thrown their way, and learning the importance of utilizing teamwork rather than working alone. In 2001, Antoine Fuqua directed a film written by David Ayer that would take that formula, turn it inside out, and gut it in a title called Training Day. Continue reading
Die Hard 2 (1990)
I opened my Die Hard review with an apology to Bruce Willis for my unwavering belief that the film itself is a Christmas movie. That time comes once again. If Bruce didn’t think Die Hard was a holiday flick, then I can’t imagine he’d think any differently about 1990’s Die Hard 2. However, just like the original, we find our setting taking place during the holiday season, complete with decorations, music, and a snow storm. The movie even wraps up just as the first did, with “Let It Snow” playing over the credits. I’m sorry, Bruce, but this is another holiday action-thriller, and that’s all there is to it.
Die Hard (1988)
All apologies to Bruce Willis for what I’m about to write. Despite his firm stance on the matter, I can’t help but classify Die Hard as a Christmas movie. It takes place at a company holiday party, features festive music, and has Bruce Willis himself whistling “Jingle Bells” in the opening act. The end credits roll to “Let it Snow”, bookending the film in festive music. That checks all the boxes I need to justify putting on this classic action-thriller during the season.