KOMBUCHA is a workplace horror-comedy that has a lot going for it. A very small cast, an extremely simple premise, and a character-driven story with lots of kitsch and familiar references. It is definitely worth watching – whether you love or loathe the drink. Read our full Kombucha movie review here!

KOMBUCHA may be an acquired taste, but this horror-comedy is not. It is an absolute recommendation for fans of the horror and comedy hybrid. A genre-mix, I am a huge fan of. This one specifically combines a dark workplace comedy with a sinister horror twist.

The runtime is 1 hour and 34 minutes, which works just fine for the storyline. And really, I don’t have too much to complain about, but it was missing something (an extra edge of some kind) for me to give a higher rating. However, I never considered going any lower for my rating of this movie.

Continue reading our Kombucha movie review below. Find it on Digital from December 2, 2025.

Too good to be true?

As workplace horror-comedy goes, Kombucha begins with a familiar premise: If something sounds too good to be true, there’s obviously a catch of some kind. Admittedly, no one could be expected to predict the catch in the case of this workplace.

We meet a struggling musician just as his girlfriend is getting fed up with him. To be honest, I can understand why. He’s a slob who slags off and has the audacity to diss her job while enjoying what her paycheck can provide. Chasing his dream, and offering no support to her, as she supports them both.

So, she decides it’s time for a break, just as an old musician friend comes around with a job offer. The pay starts at over 100K per year, and he doesn’t need any special skills or talent. Just a recommendation.

As he begins, it becomes obvious that he also needs to drink their product, which is kombucha. Now, you may not be a fan of kombucha, but once anyone tries this particular recipe, they are hooked. As in addicted to the stuff. Suddenly, they can do anything and be their very best self.

Well, maybe not so much themself as the ideal worker.

David Cronenberg meets The Office

Kombucha has very appropriately been described as “David Cronenberg meets The Office”. A comparison to Severance may not be too far off, either, as these employees really end up being all about the job. And the kombucha! It truly is a body horror workplace story… involving a very special kind of mother, as well.

Of course, we get to enjoy lots of workplace references, including the buzzwords and fluff words of many offices. From “circling back” to celebrating a huge contract, this is satire gold.

Kombucha stars Terrance Carey, Claire McFadden, and Paige Bourne. Sure, there are more actors in this movie, but these three are key players. Okay, also Jesse Kendall should be mentioned here. And just wait until you meet “Mother”.

Watch Kombucha on Digital & Blu-ray or DVD

Kombucha was written & directed by Jake Myers, who has managed to create a wonderful genre hybrid. One that isn’t too scary for those who will love the comedy and satire. Also, it has lots of deliciously yucky body horror elements with gorgeous practical effects, which should please horror fans.

Oh, but please don’t get me wrong. This may be kitsch and include comedy, but it is first and foremost a workplace body-horror movie. A story of all the free kombucha you can contain, paired with “workplace horror drenched in fluorescent lights and teeming with suspicious team building”. If that sounds good to you, then you must check out this one!

This Kombucha horror story in film form will be available for purchase or rental on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Fandango at Home, and more starting December 2nd. Also, physical editions will be available for order the same day, making it a nice little Christmas present idea for the kombucha-loving horror fan in your life.

Kombucha is available on Digital Platforms & Blu-ray/DVD December 2, 2025.

Details

Written & Directed By: Jake Myers
Starring: Terrance Carey, Claire McFadden, Paige Bourne

Plot

A mind-altering drink makes employees work themselves to death.

THE CREEP TAPES Season 2 on Shudder gives us six new episodes with the wild and crazy adventures of Peachfuzz the serial killer. As a fan of horror-comedy, this is my jam, and I hope for many more seasons. Read our review of The Creep Tapes S2 here!

THE CREEP TAPES Season 2 is coming to Shudder, and if you enjoyed the first season, you should like this second season as well. Mark Duplass as Peachfuzz is an absolute treat for fans of horror-comedy, and I love that he even goes after people in a Dexter-style.

To me, the Creep universe has always been a perfect example of how to do the whole found footage mockumentary hybrid genre perfectly. With weekly releases on Fridays, they’re the perfect little genre snack on Shudder.

Continue reading our The Creep Tapes S2 review here. Start watching on Shudder from November 14, 2025.

The six new episodes of Creep Tapes season 2

With season 2 of The Creep Tapes, you will be treated to all kinds of horror pop culture references. And even another family member, who was an absolute highlight of Season 1, where we met his mom. This season 2 episode is an equally crazy treat!

These are the season 2 episodes you can look forward to, and they’re still named after the guest character (often the victim) of the episode.

Joseph

“Joseph” is Episode 201: It premieres Friday, November 14, on Shudder and AMC+

Plot: A copycat killer (David Dastmalchian) going by the name of “Joseph” meets his match.

Wes

“Wes” is Episode 202: Premiering on Friday, November 21, on Shudder and AMC+

Plot: Wes (Diego Josef) takes a job shooting a TV pilot for a house-flipping show hosted by a bizarre man.

Mark

“Mark” is Episode 203: Watch from Friday, November 28, on Shudder and AMC+

Plot: Mark (Robert Longstreet) wakes up chained to another man in a dilapidated room and is forced to solve a series of puzzles.

A wonderful SAW reference episode that horror fans should enjoy much more than Peachfuzz does due to his victim not being a good “contestant”.

Ava

“Ava” is Episode 204: It premieres Friday, December 5, on Shudder and AMC+

Plot: Ava (Taylor Garron) has been hired to make a salacious documentary, but is foiled by her deeply uncomfortable subject.

Nick

“Nick” is Episode 205: Premiering Friday, December 12, on Shudder and AMC+

Plot: Nick (Timm Sharp) is confronted by his therapist’s increasingly odd behavior and alternative treatment suggestions during an emergency therapy session on Christmas Eve.

Angela

“Angela” is Episode 206: Premieres Friday, December 19, on Shudder and AMC+

Plot: Joseph AKA Peachfuzz is visiting an estranged family member (Katie Aselton), and it all goes haywire. The family resemblance is both uncanny and differs wildly.

Fun fact: Katie Aselton has been married to Mark Duplass since 2006, which explains their deliciously twisted chemistry and obvious joy in portraying these crazy characters.

Watch Season 2 of The Creep Tapes on Shudder and AMC+

The second season of The Creep Tapes still comes from creators Mark Duplass and Patrick Brice. Fortunately, we have many more tapes to check out in the vast collection in the secret vault of Peachfuzz.

We all know that he is probably the world’s deadliest serial killer. He is certainly the most socially uncomfortable serial killer. However, he is also amazing at blending in by standing out. So much so that even facing the police won’t deter him.

These six new episodes of The Creep Tapes season 2 are as wild, crazy, funny, and creative as season 1. If you have liked any of the previously wild adventures of Peachfuzz, then check out these episodes as they’re released on Shudder and AMC+.

Enjoy the wild ride – I know I did!

The Creep Tapes S2 begins on Shudder & AMC+ on November 14, 2025.

Plot

The Creep Tapes continues to expose a collection of video tapes from the secret vault of the world’s deadliest and most socially uncomfortable serial killer (Duplass). Unfortunately, as the tape rolls, the killer’s questionable intentions surface with his increasingly odd behavior and the victims will learn they may have made a deadly mistake. 

QUEENS OF THE DEAD is a new Queer Zombie Horror Comedy. They’re calling it a “Zom-Com” and I can see why. It’s very kitsch and a campy, fun watch. Obviously, it won’t be for everyone, but if you’re in the mood for something over-the-top, this should do the trick. Read our full Queens of the Dead movie review here!

QUEENS OF THE DEAD is a new Horror Comedy from Tina Romero. And yes, the name does reveal the connection to iconic zombie filmmaker George A. Romero. There’s even a direct nod to the director and his zombie movies, made via a cameo by Tom Savini (Dawn of the Dead, 1978).

A MUST-WATCH IT IF YOU ENJOYED…

The super campy Tubi vampire horror-comedy Slay >

It doesn’t get much more campy and kitsch than that. And yes, this is also a zombie movie. However, it’s one with a queer center as it takes place in an LGBTQ+ club and features glorious drag queens. Hence the title: a play on Dawn of the Dead, but with drag queens.

Continue reading our Queens of the Dead movie review below. Find it in theaters from October 24, 2025.

A zombie apocalypse… in Brooklyn?!

With Queens of the Dead, we see a zombie apocalypse break out in Brooklyn. It’s on the night of a giant warehouse party, which isn’t off to the best start. Even before the zombies start arriving. At YUM (that’s the name of the club), the star performer has just ditched them for a bigger and better venue.

From this moment, we begin the commentary on social media and influencer issues, which becomes a theme in Queens of the Dead. However, this is a horror-comedy with zombies, so the commentary comes in the form a well-timed and poignant jabs. Ones we should all recognize.

If you don’t, then you’re probably guilty of doing it yourself. Just sayin’.

Anyway, at YUM, we meet an eclectic group of drag queens, club kids, and a few frenemies who will be forced to put all their drama aside. Easier said than done, obviously, but once the zombies arrive, most petty feuds can be put on the back burner.

They also need to learn how to fight these brain-thirsty, and practically brain-dead-yet-still-scrolling, creatures. Of course, drag queens (and queer people in general) have always been innovative whenever a situation called for it.

An homage to the family legacy

With this Zom-Com, Tina Romero is clearly creating an homage to her father’s iconic zombie universe. The zombies are still stupid and slow, but in this very contemporary version, it plays out in a queer nightclub.

Also, there’s a running gag about us humans being so attached to our smartphones that even as zombies, we continue hitting refresh on that social media feed.

I loved this little detail, as many people are clearly like zombies when looking down at their phones. Just look around and you’ll see those phone-zombies all around you.

A deliciously queer cast

In case it hasn’t already been made clear, Queens of the Dead is an unapologetic queer movie. However, as is always the case with queer spaces, everyone is welcome. As long as you’re ready to embrace and accept people for who they are, the more the merrier.

With the cast of Queens of the Dead, we are being treated to many LGBTQ+ actors.

From Katy O’Brian (Love Lies Bleeding) as the YUM club owner to Jack Haven (I Saw the TV Glow) as the intern, and Cheyenne Jackson (Werewolves Within) as the bartender. Or how about comedian Margaret Cho, who comes swooping in just when her tough attitude is needed the most.

Also in the cast are Jaquel Spivey (Mean Girls), Tomas Matos (Fire Island), Nina West, Quincy Dunn-Baker (A House of Dynamite), Dominique Jackson (Pose), Riki Lindhome (The Hand That Rocks The Cradle), Eve Lindley (Bros), and Shaunette Renée Wilson (Black Panther).

Watch Queens of the Dead in theaters!

As already mentioned, Tina Romero is the director of Queens of the Dead, which she also co-wrote with Erin Judge. This isn’t the first time Tina Romero writes or directs, but it is her first feature film. And what a fabulous debut at that!

No, this isn’t a new zombie classic, but it really doesn’t try to be either. It is camp all the way, and it’s obviously meant to entertain and let the audience have fun with it. I would absolutely recommend watching this in a theater, as I can only imagine it will be a fabulous experience.

At 100 minutes, this Zom-Com does run too long, but it’s not by too much. Tightening the pace would have made for a better overall viewing experience. Maybe next time, as there is definitely room to make a sequel. And I would be very happy to watch Queens of the Dead 2 as well.

QUEENS OF THE DEAD is out in theaters on October 24, 2025. It will also be available on Shudder later.

Details

Director: Tina Romero
Writers: Tina Romero and Erin Judge
Cast: Katy O’Brian, Jaquel Spivey, Tomas Matos, Nina West, Quincy Dunn-Baker, Jack Haven, Cheyenne Jackson, Dominique Jackson, Margaret Cho, Riki Lindhome, Eve Lindley, Becca Blackwell, Shaunette Renée Wilson, Julie J

Plot

A zombie apocalypse breaks out in Brooklyn on the night of a giant warehouse party, where an eclectic group of drag queens, club kids, and frenemies must put aside their drama and use their unique skills to fight against the brain-thirsty, scrolling undead.

DAMNED IF YOU DO is a new horror comedy with a diabolical twist about choices. Screamqueen Kate Siegel and deliciously campy Harvey Guillén star in this dark comedy premiering at Screamfest 2025. Read our Damned If You Do movie review here!

DAMNED IF YOU DO is a dark horror comedy premiering at SCREAMFEST 2025 in Los Angeles. As a longtime fan of the kitsch horror-comedy hybrid genre, I am always ready for something new.

Of course, this movie won me over with the cast alone, so the fact that it features dark comedy was just an extra treat. For me, this movie is perfect for Halloween with its campy and kitsch vibe. Plus, the moral of the story highlights the good and bad about us humans.

Continue reading our Damned If You Do movie review below.

Made a Deal with the Devil, now I’m a Success

With Damned If You Do, we meet a group of friends just as they’re graduating from High School. They’ve managed to summon a demon that is offering them a deal: Sell your soul to the devil now, and you can have 25 years of whatever you want, then you die.

Obviously, the “whatever” part does come with a few limitations. Also, you have to be very specific. If you ask for an umbrella, you’ll want to include lots of particular wishes to avoid something useless or downright dangerous.

Other than that, your path to success will be an easy one, and you can get out of any trouble. The demon who managed to get their signature on the diabolical contracts is practically a genie, who will show up as soon as you ask for something.

However, he is also a demon and wants to have fun by torturing his subjects.

Now, the group of friends is meeting again for their 25th high school reunion. In other words, this night also marks the end of their life, as their deal with the devil comes to an end.

Can they escape Hell’s grasp before the deadline expires? Well, you’ll have to watch Damned If You Do to find out.

You had me at Kate and Harvey!

As much as I love both the horror-comedy hybrid genre and the actual plot of this movie, the cast of Damned If You Do was what truly won me over.

With fan favorite (and a personal favorite) Kate Siegel in the lead, I was a very happy camper. Kate Siegel has starred in The Haunting of Hill House, Hush, The Fall of the House of Usher, and many other productions.

MORE WITH KATE SIEGEL

Check out the Shudder docuseries Horror’s Greatest >

As that fun-loving and torturing demonic presence, we have Harvey Guillén in what just may be his campiest role yet. And I loved it. You’ll recognize Harvey Guillén from the What We Do in the Shadows series, Werewolves Within, and Companion.

Also in the cast of Damned If You Do, you’ll get to enjoy Molly Bernard (Younger), Ginger Gonzaga (She-Hulk), Paulo Costanzo (Upload), Beth Dover (Helen’s Dead, Orange is the New Black), and Ed Weeks (Drop).

Plus, Mike Flanagan, who is an absolute favorite genre director (and writer) of mine, shows up in a wonderful cameo.

Damned If You Do premiere at Screamfest 2025

The dark and diabolical comedy is directed by Jake Rubin & Evan Metzold. This is the feature film debut for both directors, and I like what I see. The pacing and the overall style are right up my alley.

Storywise, we’ve got the pleasure of writers Ellen Adair and Eric Gilde. They wrote the screenplay, and this is yet another debut. You may recognize their names as actors, but this is their first writing credit.

While the plot of Damned If You Do isn’t wildly innovative, it is a lot of fun and works on all the important levels. That’s all anyone can hope for, really. If I had been part of making this movie (I wasn’t in case you’re wondering), I would be very proud.

As of writing this, I don’t know any specifics about its release. The movie is premiering at Screamfest, which will probably result in more information about a wider release. We’ll make sure this review is updated with information on when and how you can watch it.

Damned If You Do premiered at Screamfest 2025 on October 15, 2025.

Details

Directors: Jake Rubin & Evan Metzold
Cast: Kate Siegel, Harvey Guillén, Molly Bernard, Ginger Gonzaga, Paulo Costanzo, Beth Dover, Ed Weeks, Michael Flanagan

Plot

A group of friends who sold their souls to the devil years ago must reunite before their 25th high school reunion to try and escape Hell’s grasp before the contract’s deadline expires.

COYOTES is a horror-comedy from genre filmmaker Colin Minihan. It features a survival plot that involves coyotes, which did make me nervous. Fortunately, this movie is crazy fun in all the right ways, so I want to watch it again. Screening at Fantastic Fest, but coming to theaters very soon. Read our full Coyotes horror-comedy review here!

COYOTES is a survival horror-comedy screening at Fantastic Fest 2025, but it’s coming to movie theaters in early October, so you’ll get to check it out soon. Admittedly, as an animal lover, I was nervous about this premise.

Of course, with Colin Minihan (and Britanny Allen) at the helm, plus Justin Long and Kate Bosworth, I should have known better. This movie has exactly the craziness that made Shaun of the Dead work. Oh yeah, I went there!

Also, the runtime is 92 minutes, and I didn’t want it to end.

Continue reading our Coyotes movie review below. Find it in US theaters from October 3, 2025.

When Nature Bites Back…

In Coyotes, we meet the Stewarts. A family consisting of Scott (Justin Long), Liv (Kate Bosworth), and their cool and smart daughter, Chloe (a wonderful Mila Harris). They are about to be stranded in their home, surrounded by coyotes.

Now, usually, you can scare them off, but these are different. Not only are they bigger and more aggressive, but they also don’t fear humans. In fact, they appear to want to eat us.

Well, and any small animal they may come across.

To make matters much worse, a Santa Ana windstorm has knocked out the power in their gorgeous Hollywood Hills home. The tree that Scott had neglected to cut down crushed their SUV, and a fire has erupted.

Basically, they are well and truly trapped.

The struggle to survive without power

Without electricity, some manage better than others. While Scott is quick to whip out the “Tin Meat” to survive, Liv and Chloe are more rational. Well, until their sweet dog Charlie runs away.

All bets are obviously off when the dog goes missing in this mess. Don’t worry, this isn’t John Wick… or, well, only if we’re talking the sequels.

There’s also the neighbor, who delivers his own brand of weirdness. His name is Trip (Bloodline‘s Norbert Leo Butz), and that’s exactly what he is. However, he does have a generator, so he has redeeming qualities.

We first become familiar with the existence of the neighbor when his “date” (Brittany Allen) shows up at the Stewarts by mistake. Her character is a brilliant addition to the quirky world.

Perfect horror comedy casting

Whenever Justin Long is in a genre movie, it immediately goes on my “Must Watch” movie list. From Jeepers Creepers (before we knew about the director) to Sam Raimi‘s Drag Me to Hell, Kevin Smith’s Tusk, and Zach Cregger‘s Barbarian, I just adore him.

Also, I am so happy to see Kate Bosworth (The Immaculate Room) again, and I truly hope she and Justin will continue to make movies together. It just works. And please, do team up with Colin Minihan and Brittany Allen again as well.

See, this is what happens when talent and passion for filmmaking come together, and the focus is on making good movies, not making oneself look good.

Speaking of… If you’ve watched previous Colin Minihan movies, you will have seen Britanny Allen before as well. However, I don’t think I’ve ever seen her quite as funny as in Coyote.

Sure, she’s played fun and quirky characters before, and a movie like It Stains the Sands Red certainly has some elements of dark comedy, despite being first and foremost a horror movie with a zombie apocalypse plot (do check it out!).

Watch Coyotes as soon as you can

As already covered earlier, this movie comes from director Colin Minihan. He previously directed genre movies such as What Keeps You Alive (2018) and the iconic Grave Encounters (2011) as part of The Vicious Brothers.

The screenplay comes from Tad Daggerheart (Black Lotus) and Nick Simon (Truth or Dare), based on the story from the two, along with Daniel Meersand (The Pyramid). Honestly, none of these writers has excelled for me in the past.

Still, with this 2025 movie, Colin Minihan has managed to hit my horror-comedy sweet spot and make all my worries about animals being the villains disappear. Also, it helps that the coyotes are clearly CGI, so thank you for that.

Again, it’s clearly intentional and part of the whole comedic focus of the story. Finally, I have to give a shout-out to the composer as well: Britanny Allen. Alongside acting, she has done quite a few scores. I have enjoyed them all!

Coyotes will open in theaters across the U.S. on October 3, 2025.

Details

Director: Colin Minihan
Script: Tad Daggerhart, Nick Simon
Cast: Justin Long, Kate Bosworth, Katherine McNamara, Brittany Allen, Mila Harris, Norbert Leo Butz

Plot

Trapped in their Hollywood Hills home, a family must fight for survival as a pack of savage coyotes closes in.

BAD HAIRCUT is a Thriller-Comedy with characters that make it the most insane watch. I absolutely loved it. The villain is unforgettable, and I find myself wanting to keep watching him. Screening at Fantastic Fest 2025. Read our full Bad Haircut movie review here!

BAD HAIRCUT is getting its world premiere at Fantastic Fest, and it seems like a perfect fit for this crazy thriller-comedy. In fairness, one could also label it a horror-comedy, or even add “romance” to the list of genres. It’s on IMDb, too.

The vibe of this genre-hybrid is definitely weird for much of its runtime, but that is exactly what makes it work so well. Okay, and also, Frankie Ray as Mick is a stroke of pure genius. Give me more!

Continue reading our Bad Haircut movie review below.

I won’t cut my hair

Having watched Bad Haircut, I’m not sure I’d ever feel safe going to a new hairdresser. This movie certainly highlights the dangers of being trapped by someone with scissors at their disposal.

Though, to be fair, the scissors are rarely the most dangerous thing about the barber, Mick (Frankie Ray). That would be his whole essence!

When Billy (Spencer Harrison Levin) finds himself wanting a new look, his friends take him to get the best haircut he has ever had. Actually, his friends are the ones who think he should get a new look, but after the opening scene, Billy agrees.

Off they all go to see Mick.

Mick the Barber

Mick has his own salon and is famous for being a barber who only charges seven (yes, 7!) dollars for a haircut. Also, he does not gladly accept tips. Cutting hair is his calling, and he is quick and talented.

Well, usually, he works fast.

However, Billy is a new client, so he needs to take his time and wait for inspiration. What happens next is impossible to explain and should be experienced firsthand.

Let’s just say that tension runs deep and there is much more to this barbershop than meets the eye.

Frankie Ray is a Star!

Billy needs to figure out how to handle Mick, who continues to surprise. Whether with a taco run or a 1970s-style suit.

Also, Mick’s hair is almost a character in itself. I absolutely adored it.

Frankie Ray (The Ice Cream Truck) plays Mick with so much heart and intensity that you almost root for him at times. Of course, he’ll soon do or say something that changes that.

Still, the entertainment value of this character is priceless, and it is all thanks to how Frankie Ray throws himself into portraying him. This actor is perfect for genre-comedy hybrids.

Bad Haircut world premiere at Fantastic Fest

Writer and director of Bad Haircut is Kyle Misak, who delivers on every level. It’s funny, weird, scary, entertaining, and absolutely crazy in all the right ways. A true genre gem that should resonate with film festival audiences worldwide.

I can’t help but wish for more with Frankie Ray’s “Mick”. Every time I thought I knew where this was heading, some new twist came, and made it even better.

When you get the chance to watch this thriller-comedy, you’d better jump at it. This is the kind of movie that could (and should) gain a cult following and become the kind of movie that launches a much bigger career for Kyle Misak.

Bad Haircut is getting its World Premiere at Fantastic Fest 2025.

Details

Director: Kyle Misak
Writer: Kyle Misak
Stars: Spencer Harrison Levin, Frankie Ray, Jake Busey, Kevin Dunn, Larry Hankin

Plot

When a college kid goes to a new place to get a haircut, he discovers that his barber is a psychopath.

TAKEOUT on Tubi is a new thriller from Jem Garrard (Slay), and it has all the awesome traits of this genre filmmaker. It involves a night shift at a diner and a serial killer. Also, of course, several amazing characters. Read our full Takeout movie review here!

TAKEOUT is a new Tubi Original from filmmaker Jem Garrard. This time it’s a farcical thriller, so we’re leaning heavily into satire and kitsch moments. Well, that’s usually the case (to some extent) for Jem Garrard movies, and I love it!

With this latest Tubi thriller, you’ll get a serial killer story and lots of awesome and fun characters to keep you on your toes. Please note that Tubi also has a documentary from 2020 with the same title.

Continue reading our Takeout (2025) movie review below. Find it on Tubi from September 19, 2025.

A serial killer during the night shift

For this latest Tubi thriller, it’s a serial killer story where the entire movie plays out in a diner. Unfortunately for those working there, it’s the only place open at all hours, so they get a lot of quirky and weird customers.

On this particular night, it includes a serial killer. One already on the news and with his own serial killer name: The Dollkeeper.

The only highlight for those working the diner night shift is that there’s a huge reward for information that leads to the serial killer. Also, they are not on good terms with the local cops, who annoy them during every shift.

Of course, with this being a farcical thriller, the three diner workers will soon find themselves in over their heads.

Why isn’t our rating for Takeout higher?!

I’m using a lot of positive words for this review. Amazing, wonderful, and awesome have been scattered throughout this Takeout review of the Tubi movie. However, I do have one or two issues with it.

Well, “issues” is a bit much, but something is weighing down our overall rating.

Honestly, the main reason our rating isn’t higher is that it runs a little too long. However, that’s a minor issue that is highlighted by the fact that Jem Garrard is clearly a hit for Tubi.

A good thing for us genre film fans, as it means we get more genre movies.

Unfortunately, it also means that these movies are the product of their proverbial golden goose, so commercial breaks seem both more frequent and longer. At least this was my viewing experience.

Watch the 2025 Takeout thriller on Tubi now

Writer and director of Takeout (2025) is Jem Garrard, who has fast become a filmmaker I never miss out on. From Slay to Invasive and its sequel, Jem Garrard always delivers on intriguing plots and amazing characters.

The cast yet again features familiar faces. In true Mike Flanagan fashion, Jem Garrard also uses the same actors again and again. For Takeout, you can look forward to Deoudoné Pretorius, Daniel Janks, Darron Meyer, and the unforgettable Robyn Scott.

The star of this Tubi thriller is N’kone Mametja (Unseen) with Damien Wantenaar (Killer Body Count) in another key role. I hope and expect to see both in future Garrard productions.

Takeout premieres on Tubi on September 19, 2025.

Details

Director: Jem Garrard
Writer: Jem Garrard
Starring: N’kone Mametja, Deoudoné Pretorius, Daniel Janks, Darron Meyer, Gia Capouya, Damien Wantenaar, Robyn Scott

Plot

Three coworkers on the night shift at a remote diner get in over their heads after digging for proof that one of their customers is a serial killer.

THE BLACKENING is now on Netflix US, and this Horror-Comedy was so much funnier than I ever expected. As a fan of the horror-comedy hybrid, I did think it would be entertaining, but this hit harder than I thought it would. Read our full The Blackening movie review here!

THE BLACKENING is finally on Netflix in the US, and if you like horror comedies, then you will definitely want to watch this. And yes, of course, some characters will do the opposite of what they should, but in a horror-comedy, that might be the best move.

The runtime is just 1 hour and 37 minutes, and there has been talk of a sequel, so I hope it’s coming. This horror-comedy is from 2022. Now it’s on Netflix and easy to watch (or rewatch) the genre-hybrid focused on the tropes black characters usually endure in horror movies.

Continue reading our The Blackening movie review below. Find it on Netflix US from September 4, 2025.

Juneteenth Reunion in a Cabin in the Woods

The Blackening gives us the story of a group of Black friends reuniting for a Juneteenth weekend. This reunion happens in a cabin in the woods, which is perfect for a horror movie, but not so perfect if you want everyone to survive.

Then they find a strange (and very offensive) game that seems to lure them into playing. Well, that was a mistake. Think Jumanji, but where a crazy killer is pulling the strings instead of a supernatural game.

While it begins with a game, the punishment for losing is death.

That might all sound very serious, and not everyone will make it, but really, it’s also very funny. Think the first Scream, where people call out everything that’s wrong with horror movies and fight back, but this one has the added element of Black characters.

And as we all know (or should know), Black characters stereotypically die first in horror movies.

They Can’t All Die First

Whether you enjoy horror spoofs like Scary Movie or think they go way too far, I think you’ll enjoy this one. The dialogue is sharp, the characters are funny, and the killings are very creative, while the pacing remains sharp.

Also, The Blackening has so many wonderful pop-culture references, but manages to stay a lot more focused on its core subject: The trope that black people always die first in horror movies.

That’s why even the tagline was amazing with “We Can’t All Die First”.

While the pop culture references are obviously focused on horror movies and famous Black people or movies (from Set It Off to Sister Act 2), there’s also room for plenty of other areas of pop culture.

Not least, White people relating to Black people with a Ranger named “B. White” showing up several times.

Minorities in horror movies

Now, I am not Black, so I won’t claim that I can relate to the specific elements of this story, but I do know the feeling. As a gay woman, I also see “my people” being part of the horror movie character gallery usually included in horror movies, but also among the first to die.

Usually, the gay character dies after the Black character. If someone wants to shake it up, they kill the gay character first. Well, in The Blackening, there’s also a gay Black character, so you know this person would usually die first.

However, remember my comparison to Scream? These characters are not stupid; they know the “rules of horror movies” and fight back.

I loved that… also, it was often damn funny!

For the record, one of the reasons I love genre movies is that minorities are usually included in the stories and are key characters in the plot. They may die (and die early), but in these movies, almost everyone is killed, so at least it’s acknowledged that we exist.

Also, the ultimate survivor is usually a woman (AKA the Final Girl).

Watch The Blackening on Netflix now

The Blackening comes from director Tim Story, who previously directed comedies like Ride Along and Think Like a Man. Maybe that’s part of the reason why the comedy works so damn well, but I am very pleased to report that the horror elements are also very efficient.

The screenplay comes from Tracy Oliver (Girls Trip) and Dewayne Perkins. The latter also stars in The Blackening as the character Dewayne, who is black and gay, so he knows there’s a bull’s eye on his back.

The cast of The Blackening is overall just wonderful and features so many actors with excellent comedic timing. From Jermaine Fowler, X Mayo, and Melvin Gregg (Snowfall) to Grace Byers, Antoinette Robertson, and Sinqua Walls, I enjoyed all the character portrayals.

If you haven’t watched The Blackening yet, don’t miss out now that it’s finally coming to Netflix. And if you have watched it, then a rewatch is probably high times. Plus, there just might be a sequel in the works, so why not be ready for that?!

The Blackening is out on Netflix (US and other countries) from September 4, 2025.

Details

Director: Tim Story
Writers: Tracy Oliver & Dewayne Perkins
Cast: Grace Byers, Jermaine Fowler, Melvin Gregg, X Mayo, Dewayne Perkins, Antoinette Robertson, Sinqua Wells, with Jay Pharoah, and Yvonne Orji

Plot

Trapped in an isolated cabin, a group of friends scrambles to outwit a masked killer who forces them to play a warped game of life, death and identity.

HOLD THE FORT is a new Horror-Comedy we’re screening for Fantasia 2025. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and highly recommend you check it out. A real genre treat full of practical effects and mythical creatures. Read our full Hold the Fort movie review here!

HOLD THE FORT is a Horror-Comedy that won me over from its opening scene. It’s an indie production that does everything right. From the practical effects to the well-written characters, this feels like a love letter to horror movies.

Also, as a horror-comedy, it has plenty of comedy. Often of the very dark variety, as this is a survival story where mythical creatures must be defeated to protect a local neighborhood. Lesson of the movie: Always read your HOA contract closely.

Continue reading our Hold the Fort movie review below. Screened for Fantasia 2025.

Welcome to the Neighborhood… please survive

Lucas (Chris Mayers) and Jenny (Haley Leary) have just moved to a new neighborhood and cannot believe their luck. Their home is amazing and much cheaper than expected. Of course, there’s always a catch when something is too good to be true.

See Cellar Door or Get Off My Lawn for reference on that. The latter even has the same comedy vibe as Hold the Fort, though I prefer this latest movie.

The day Lucas and Jenny move in, there’s a party thrown by their Homeowners Association (aka the HOA). Jenny did not know about the HOA and is not a fan of the concept. Lucas did know about it, but didn’t read the contract. He just noticed that a swimming pool is being built.

However, he really should have read the HOA contract.

A literal Hell Hole

A few hours into the HOA party, both new homeowners are about to find out why they should’ve read the contract. Let’s just say the motto of this yearly HOA involves the words of encouragement regarding everyone (hopefully!) surviving the night.

They find themselves in a very real fight for their lives. This particular HOA has a job that should probably be handled by Buffy the Vampire Slayer. There is an onslaught of monsters from hell. That’s right, in the middle of their neighborhood, there is a literal Hell Hole.

This hole leading to Hell opens up once a year, and it’s the job of the HOA (as in everyone who lives in the neighborhood) to battle these monsters. Home-ownership is serious business in this neighborhood, where witches, werewolves, and kamikaze bats (to name a few) are attacking.

I didn’t have any particular expectations for this movie, but I did expect a fun time. What I got from Hold the Fort was a horror-comedy that leads into the struggles of home-ownership and neighborhood struggles in the funniest and most extreme way.

It was an awesome ride and I enjoyed it immensely. Also, the casting was perfect!

Watch Hold the Fort when you get the chance

Hold the Fort comes from writer-director William Bagley and is based on a story by first-time author Scott Hawkins. After watching this horror-comedy, I really hope they’ll continue working together. Clearly, this is a camp and kitsch horror-comedy match made in horror heaven.

Producers of the movie include Matt Dodd, Luke Williams, Tim Reis, and Julian Smith. Many of these names were also involved with William Bagley’s previous movie (his feature film debut), titled The Murder Podcast from 2021. I definitely need to check out that one as well.

Even the runtime of just 74 minutes (or 1 hour and 14 minutes, for those who prefer that description) is simply perfect. Do make sure you stick around during the end credits. Plenty of behind-the-scenes moments to keep the fun going a little longer.

Hold the Fort is screened and reviewed as part of our Fantasia 2025 coverage. We’ll update this review with official release dates when we have them.

Details

Director: William Bagley
Writer: William Bagley
Story: Scott Hawkins
Cast: Chris Mayers, Haley Leary, Julian Smith, Hamid-Reza Benjamin Thompson, Michelle Lamb, Levi Burdick

Plot

The film follows Lucas and Jenny who think their life is finally coming together when the couple become homeowners. Little do they know that their new house comes with a big catch. Lucas and Jenny soon find themselves in a fight for their lives when they become trapped in a battle between their Homeowners Association and an onslaught of monsters from hell. 

FOUND FOOTAGE: THE MAKING OF THE PATTERSON PROJECT is a new mockumentary horror-comedy that works extremely well. This would’ve been a runaway audience hit at any film festival. Read our full Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project movie here!

FOUND FOOTAGE: THE MAKING OF THE PATTERSON PROJECT is a new horror comedy made as a mockumentary. And yes, there are hints to the Blair Witch Project, as any good horror mockumentary would have. In fact, it’s even mentioned during the movie.

After all, this is about a documentary film crew following a feature film crew making a movie about an infamous Sasquatch (aka Bigfoot) sighting. Ultimately, it’s something else that results in this becoming a horror movie. The runtime of around an hour and a half is perfect.

Continue reading our Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project movie review below. Find it in theaters on June 20, 2025, and on Digital from June 24, 2025.

Don’t read too much about it beforehand

As with any mockumentary, you need to just let Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project unfold. It’s a very meta mockumentary horror film, where we follow a new filmmaker about to shoot his feature film debut.

From getting funding to casting the movie, it’s a very confusing experience. However, all of this is small potatoes compared to what’s about to happen. The film director, Chase (Brennan Keel Cook), may be making a movie about Bigfoot, but something else is coming.

And yes, you will laugh as well as jump in your seat. There are straight-up horror moments alongside dark comedy that make everything gel perfectly. Not unlike the mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows. Quirky and laugh-out-loud with lots of appeal for horror fans.

You’ll want to watch this in a movie theater

As mentioned initially, this is the kind of movie that would’ve been a huge hit with any genre film festival audience. It’s perfect for watching with like-minded people who enjoy the wild and wacky genre hybrids.

So, if you can, I would definitely recommend that you watch Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project in a movie theater. If not, then enjoy it at home a few days after the theatrical release.

MORE CLASSIC MOCKUMENTARY MATERIAL

There’s more information at ThePattersonProject.org which is a blog dedicated to uncovering the truth of what really happened on the set of Chase Bradner’s film (click around for all sorts of secrets and scares).

Whatever you do, just lean back and let it all unfold. Without any particular or further comparison, I’d say it has a lot of the same qualities that made One Cut of the Dead work so well.

Watch Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project in theaters or on digital

Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project comes from the visionary filmmaker Max Tzannes. This is very much an indie movie with quirky elements and a lot of meta moments. So, not at all unlike what we see in the actual mockumentary.

The movie was co-written by director Max Tzannes and David San Miguel. It comes from producer Tyler Friesen with Radio Silence. Yes, the very same as the team behind the two latest Scream franchise movies, Scream and Scream VI.

While the entire story, vibe, and production work perfectly for me, it never could’ve come together without the right cast. Fortunately, the casting is sublime for this one.

From Brennan Keel Cook (The Pale Blue Eye) as the director to his girlfriend/Assistant Director played by Erika Vetter (Somebody I Used to Know) to crew member Chen Tang (Mulan), and producer Dean Cameron (Paradise).

Do not miss out on this genre gem of a movie!

Found Footage: The Making of the Patterson Project is out in U.S. theaters June 20 & on Digital on June 24, 2025. It will be out in the UK on June 30.

Details

Director: Max Tzannes
Writers: Max Tzannes & David San Miguel
Cast: Brennan Keel Cook, Chen Tang, Erika Vetter, Dean Cameron, Del Alan Murphy, Suzanne Ford, Christian T. Chan, J.R. Gomez, Rachel Alig

Plot

A crew of documentarians chronicle an amateur filmmaker’s quest to make the world’s greatest found footage horror film.