Stryke of the Apes

Stryker (1983)
Directed by Cirio H. Santiago
Dipped into my San Jose VHS haul to finally view this gem. Really fun early 80s sci-fi action adventure. Naturally a Road Warrior rip-off but still plenty entertaining. And Steve Sandor is a decent lead as Stryker. “After the holocaust, nothing matters but survival.”

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
Directed by Rupert Wyatt
Went to the midnight screening b/c I just couldn’t take hearing / reading anymore about this film. The positive buzz was nearly overwhelming so I didn’t want my expectations to get the best of me. Good thing because this is a great film. It pays off in many ways. Didn’t like the callbacks to the original PotA flick but whatever. The drama is really great. Much to appreciate here.

Another Death Spa

Another Earth (2011)
Directed by Mike Cahill
Went over to CineArts after work to catch this. Nice little indie sci-fi film co-written by Brit Marling. Mostly really enjoyed this but had a hard time getting past William Mapother because he will always be “Ethan” from LOST to me. It’s the ending that really seals the deal here.

Death Spa (1990)
Directed by Michael Fischa
Oh man was I looking forward to this selection for Horror Movie Night. Glad to have finally seen this b/c it’s so damn fun and ridiculous. Watching people trapped in the “death spa” is quite entertaining. Under-appreciated horror.

Maniac Dreaming

Maniac (1980)
Directed by William Lustig
Took me long enough to finally see this. Geez. Thanks to Instawatch for making it available. Such a slimy and grimy flick that feels like a product of its time. I love that. Joe Spinell is creepy as all hell. Also dig on Caroline Munro, of course.

Dead of Night (1972)
Directed by Bob Clark
Caught this on Instawatch after hearing some buzz on the twitter. Deathdream, as its known, is a pretty cool flick with an inventive zombie vietnam vet story. Worth the watch. Another Bob Clark classic.

No Retreat for Bigfoot

No Retreat, No Surrender (1986)
Directed by Corey Yuen Kwai
Viewed this on my return flight from Puerto Rico. Holy hell is this an awesome flick! I had no idea but had always heard this was great. It is! It’s the kind of movie I’d love to watch w/others in a BTSNAT type of event. Or just a movie night. JCVD is wonderfully evil and montage is one of the best. So entertaining.

Night of the Demon (1980)
Directed by James C. Wasson
Also viewed on my return flight from Puerto Rico. Not a terrible hunt for Bigfoot film or as bad as its reputation, I guess.