In the late ‘90s and early ‘00s, while I was attending Ohio State, my friends and I were in the local band scene. Columbus was a pretty rockin’ town at the time, with small shows of every stripe occurring daily. Venues like Bernie’s, Andyman’s Treehouse, and Little Brother’s provided a steady stream of young and hungry bands chasing rock n’ roll dreams.
Read MoreOff Ramp (2023) #BUFF24
Off Ramp, showcased at the 24th Annual Boston Underground Film Festival, offers a unique glimpse into the world of Juggalos through the eyes of Trey and Silas. While the film certainly caters to its niche audience, it struggles to resonate with a broader demographic, leaving many viewers feeling disconnected. From the outset, it's evident that Off Ramp is crafted with Juggalos in mind.
Read MoreSleep (2023) #BUFF24
If you're a fan of horror films that push the boundaries of the genre, then Sleep is an absolute must-watch. Premiering at the 24th Annual Boston Underground Film Festival, this South Korean thriller, directed by Jason Yu, delivers an unsettling and intense experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Sleep follows the story of a young expectant wife grappling with her husband's terrifying sleepwalking episodes, which pose a threat not only to himself but to their entire family.
Read MoreRoad House (2024)
The 2024 adaptation of Road House brings a fresh twist to the classic tale, with Jake Gyllenhaal stepping into the shoes of Dalton, an ex-UFC fighter seeking redemption amidst the chaos of the Florida Keys. Directed by Doug Liman and boasting a talented ensemble cast, the film offers a rollercoaster ride of action, humor, and adrenaline-pumping fight sequences. Gyllenhaal shines as Dalton, portraying the character's struggle to leave behind his violent past while protecting Frankie's roadhouse from the clutches of a menacing gang led by the ruthless Brandt.
Read More5lbs of Pressure (2024)
5lbs of Pressure is a gritty action-thriller that delves into the lives of two men, Adam and Mike, whose paths intertwine in a world of violence and redemption. Directed and written by Phil Allocco, the film offers an intense narrative fueled by themes of forgiveness, family, and the pursuit of freedom from the shackles of the past. Luke Evans delivers a solid performance as Adam, an ex-convict seeking reconciliation with his estranged son, portrayed by Rudy Pankow.
Read MoreDawn of the Dead (2004)
When Zack Snyder’s remake of George Romero’s Dawn of the Dead was initially announced, I was extremely dubious, to say the least. I generally despise remakes and this was sacrosanct ground. I didn’t see it in the theater, but I eventually relented when my girlfriend talked me into it.
Read MoreCaptive State (2019)
After 2011’s critically well-received Rise of the Planet of the Apes was a surprise hit, director Rupert Wyatt became a hot name in Hollywood. Unfortunately, he hasn’t really been able to follow up on that success. That being said, RotPotA worked well enough for me that I was willing to give 2019’s Captive State a shot, despite bombing at the box office and receiving mixed reviews.
Read MoreThe Rock-afire Explosion (2008)
I would guess that most people in the US at least have a passing familiarity with Chuck E Cheese. However, if you grew up in the ‘80s and were in certain parts of the country, their pizza restaurant/arcade hall competitor was probably your location of choice for birthday parties and rewards for good grade cards. ShowBiz Pizza Place operated from 1979 until it was completely absorbed by Chuck E Cheese in the mid-90s.
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