Watching the Paint Dry

Okay readers welcome back to DishThis!...first I have to give a shout to a friend who inspired me with the title of this entry (you know who you are 'Griffin') LOL - Thanks babe, I love it!

So the rents have a great deal of work being done on the house, initial stage being the painting. First of all, while I am thrilled they're doing this, I do have a life and it's summer. I don't understand why I am the one who has to sit at home with these people and 'watch the paint dry', hello I'm not the only person living in this house! Last week alone I had to cancel my plans every single time. Let's not even talk about this week... What makes my life so much less important than everyone else'? I feel trapped here, which would be fine if there was some eye candy to stare at while they paint. (Please refer to the picture at the top...why isn't that the type who is here remodeling the house?) Hell if it were, I'd tell the other live-in members of the house to take their time and stay gone! haha The house to myself in the summer with sizzling painters doing their brush strokes, sounds great to me. ;) However, that's not the case here. Very nice people of course, but not the type you'd stare at for hours or offer lemonade and iced tea and chat it up with. Such a shame, because that would be kind of fun.

As for the season as a whole, more or less it's been uneventful and yet I've enjoyed the changes in my life. Also interesting thing I realized, is that I pretty much have spent most of the summer on the roof of my house than inside the actual house. LOL - It's my favorite place now, especially to tan! I think to myself that if I could lay out nude up there I would...but then I remember the bathing suits I wear when I get some rays are pretty short. I hate tan lines!...(on me anyway LOL) Besides, I have to keep some things to myself and away from the neighbors! Right? ;)

Okay so that's it for this little tidbit, more stories will be posted soon. So stay tuned! And thanks again to my buddy 'Griffin' for the blog title. Talk to you shortly babe.

JohnnyBoy Is Making A Comeback!!!!

Hey DishThis! readers! I know it's been a while since I've written about my life, and I am sorry for that, but the time has come to get my thoughts and anecdotes out there again. As you can see in the title, I'm well underway at a comeback...not quite there yet, but soon! That being said, let's just jump right in shall we...

Just in case some of you are not aware, I was laid off back in January (I know just like the rest of this country), and have been seeking work ever since. I've heard everything from "we're not hiring right now" to "your resume is great, however we feel that you're over-qualified" to "you have great potential, however we are looking for someone with a minimum of 5 years experience." Seriously!!!!????!!!! For god's sakes what is a person in their 20's supposed to do at this point, right? Well for me after six months of the same thing, I've decided to do what I do best...which is write! Is it going to pay the bills? No, of course not. Will I have the support and understanding of the family? Chances are probably not! However, in the end I've got to do what is best for me and nobody else. It seems pretty simple and logical, but having the guts to go through with it takes a great deal of courage, and unfortunately not many people ever get to achieve that. So like they say on BRAVO TV, 'Watch What Happens!'

Moving On...

Recently I've done a major 'cleansing' of the people in my life. It has been a long time coming, however it had to be done. As individuals, it is inevitable that we grow and mature as we continue to experience more things in this life. Sadly, there are those people that just seem to remain stagnant and never learn or ascend into a new state of being. Essentially they do not offer anything to your life and who you are or will become in the future. More specifically, it was the unnecessary drama that led to the cleansing of a portion of my social contacts. Life is way too short to deal with back-talk and the 'he-said-she-said' crap!!! Seriously people, if you've got issues with others then just be upfront about it to their face and settle it. There's no need for gossip or malicious behavior; especially after the age of 18 (and that's pushing it)! Everyone talks about people behind their backs, and that's okay...ONLY if what you say about the person of discussion while they are not present, isn't anything you wouldn't say directly to their face. Trust me, it makes for better friendships in the long run! BE HONEST!!! Thus far after the 'cleansing', I don't think much of them nor miss any of the repetitive conversations. Makes for a better me. :)

Moving On...

Speaking of a better me, I have never felt better about my body or mind than I do right now! Have I ever had a weight problem, no not exactly. However, like most people there are those random moments in your life where you can afford to drop a few pounds. It was a mere 2 months ago that I woke up one day and decided "I was going to change my life." And I did exactly that. I stopped my 'bad' eating habits; which more or less was just me not eating on a normal schedule. It wasn't rare for me to eat at odd hours of the day and night. With just a few slight alterations, I've got more energy now than ever before, and all I did was start eating on a normal schedule. I've been doing yoga for years now, however I am nowhere near being a master at it. All in time though. I also increased my reading materials; basically will read anything and just learn whatever I can. Between the yoga, the reading, the foods, I am a whole new person. I must admit that I did recently read 'The Secret', and to those of you who scoff at the whole New Age way of thinking or living...they are just words. It is YOU the individual who makes it reality. If yoga and New Age is not for you, then simply look deep into yourself and discover what it is you want and NEVER give up on it. I haven't, and even though I may be unemployed currently and not where I'd like to be in terms of career... I don't let it bring me down. Look at the world and laugh your ass off, because that is what is missing...the laughter!

Moving On...

Another thing I tend to laugh at lately are these so called 'men' out there. Oh my god are these people for real; I don't know what was worse being on a date where the guy asked me about 30 minutes in how big my dick was or this other guy I went on a date with who I discovered was actually married! You've got to be kidding me with this shit. First of all never ask what I'm packing; especially on a first date because bottom line there's nothing in there for you that night anyway okay...and as for you closeted married men, well I feel for you but don't think all of us out and proud guys are willing to get your rocks off. What happened to the decent gay guys who aren't still looking for a quick fuck? I'm all for some fun but c'mon at least be able to hold a decent conversation people; please! That's all I ask at this point. Currently, we've got a trio of guys who quite possibly have potential...so we'll feel it out and see what they're all about. All are new to my canvas, so keeping my options open. This juggling thing is new to me, but you know what I'm single so why the hell not. Stay Tuned...

Okay readers on that note, it's time to go and work it yoga style! Be sure to come back within a couple of days for a special 'exposed' entry that will Dish 100% on all the crazy and random adventures that I've experienced over the last couple of months. Nothing will be left out; you get the good bad ugly and downright embarrassing. Wouldn't have it any other way.
Nothing but love to my DishThis! readers. XoXo

Horror Reviews Are In - Part IV

Entry number four of my horror review series is finally ready! This time around I've got individual reviews of the "Underworld" trilogy, and reviews of the "Vacancy" series. These reviews are strictly meant to give a brief recap of my own personal thoughts on what did or did not work in the film. Fans of vampire and werewolf lore and home invasion are sure to have their cravings met with these additions into the horror genre. Readers beware, for the full moon is rising... DishThis!


I remember seeing this film opening weekend back in 2003, and even six years later I am just as satisfied as I was after that initial viewing. The "Underworld" franchise depicts a centuries long feud between a coven of vampires and the ravenous Lycans. With this film taking place in present day amongst a Gothic type metropolis, the atmosphere is absolutely perfect given the storyline. Combined with stunning visual effects and a stellar cast rounding out its core characters, part one is a guaranteed winner! Len Wiseman takes the helm as director, writer, and producer all while making it a family affair by casting his gorgeous and talented wife Kate Beckinsale as Selene. The first of what later on spawned into a trilogy, the "Underworld" series has taken two of folklore's most mystifying creatures and given them a whole new back story and brought to life a world that makes you wonder what is and what could be. Definitely a film to watch and add to any collection, and be sure to check out the sequel and the recently released prequel to round out the story. Enjoy!!!


Okay so just like the first installment to the franchise, I remember seeing this one opening weekend too. Three years later, and I am still just as into it now as I was then. While "Underworld: Evolution" is a direct sequel to it's predecessor, the film initially opens in the year 1202 A.D. to give the audience a brief background on the varied connections between the two bloodlines and another rift that sent them down centuries of death and destruction. After the prologue, we pick up with Vampire Selene, and her Lycan/Vampire Hybrid lover whom are now on the run after taking down the Vampire Elder Viktor. Once again you've got Len Wiseman at the helm on all counts and presents the fans with another stellar film. This time around however, we're taken on a ride that uncovers a secret lineage that once again intertwines the bloodlines of the vampires and lycans. For die-hard fans of the series, this too is definitely one to add to your collection. Also be sure to check out the recently released prequel to round out the trilogy. Enjoy the show!


Finally the prequel we've been waiting for to round out the "Underworld" trilogy. Unlike the first two films, this one I was not able to catch in theaters so yesterday when it was released I was able to rent it via netflix of course. Now I know this installment has gotten a variety of mixed reviews from fans. The most common I have come across is that people felt as if there was no need for a prequel, or at least not the story they depicted in 'Rise of the Lycans.' I'll have to disagree with this, because even though we learned of the story between Lucian and Sonja in the original, there is a completely different take on it when you see it first hand on screen. Could they have done a prequel following a different storyline, perhaps at an even earlier time than this took place in? Of course, but all in all Len Wiseman once again delivers, but this time is solely acting as the producer, while he gives up the director's chair to Patrick Tatopoulos. Just as visually satisfying as the first two, I have to say the finale scene takes the cake here. The ending rounds out the series perfectly, and brings us directly up to the beginning of the original film. For those of you who haven't seen it yet, make it a movie night and watch the trilogy one after the other. Enjoy the films!


Here you have a semi-reversal of the classic home invasion genre, only this time shown through the events at a cheap motel rather than a private residence. With the acting talents of Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson, you are sure to enjoy the characters they portray regardless of the mayhem they encounter on their journey. The film itself has a completely voyeuristic feel to it what with the immense camera lenses watching them, and wreaks of Norman Bates. What I found particularly satisfying was the social commentary depicted when the deranged serial killers use their murderous videos as a marketing tool to bring in money. Without spoiling it, I will say the ending of this film could have two possible outcomes; which is something I both love and hate. This is definitely a film to watch and add into your collection if you're a fan of the home invasion genre. Enjoy!


Here we have the prequel to the 2007 film in which we are shown the beginning of how the motel came to be a place of murder and mayhem. That aspect of it I actually felt was very well done, and quite interesting to see that they were originally just perverted peepers and not serial killers. The murder videos came about when they accidentally witnessed a man check in with a prostitute and slash her to death. However, at the same time I found it highly unlikely that even peeping toms would out of the blue decide to video tape people dying and sell them to clients. With a younger cast of relatively unknown actors, the performances came off well to keep us interested. Unfortunately, I have to say that the film fails to provide continuity for the series and skews the timeline to the point where you don't know who and how certain people came to run the motel. As a prequel its purpose is to present us with answers and not to create more than we had originally. This one is worth a watch, but I'd say it is one to be left out of the collection. Enjoy it!

There you have it everyone, part four has come to an end but don't get your sick and twisted minds into a psychotic frenzy... Part five is already in the works! Wishing all of you a terrifyingly killer weekend, and be sure to get yourself out to the movies this summer for a slew of carnage to rip through the screens. Enjoy fear-seekers, DishThis!

Horror Reviews Are In - Part III

The third entry to the horror review series has arrived! This time with an even more well-rounded group of films from the genre. As seen previously, each review is meant to give every one of you a brief detailed opinion on what to expect before popping in that DVD. Touching upon films from decades past and even the present, there is surely something for everybody. So let's get to the DISH, shall we...


The third installment to the franchise proves to be better than part two, however fails to surpass the greatness of the original. 'Revelations' brought an interesting twist to the trilogy by not simply having events altered due to the jumping back and forth into the past and present, but actually showcased the terror that can be created by altering fate and destiny. The on screen performances were strong enough in their intensity that the audience begins to truly care for each character. Which makes it that much more disturbing to us when we see that specific character eventually become the serial killer's next victim. The only thing I will mention as a slight negative is that as you witness each of the film's characters die off, it becomes clear who the killer is based on their only connection to the victims. However, don't let this discourage you from viewing the film as it only becomes clear to you about one minute before the killer's mask is revealed. While this is a standalone film as the second one was, the initial film is a must to simply give you the backstory on what the 'Butterfly Effect' is. Enjoy the film.


I'd have to say that this film really did not leave me with too much to think about, which in my opinion means it did not do its job. My feeling is that if a film doesn't intrigue you enough to continue thinking about it and asking questions, then something is missing. "Dying Breed" is essentially a combination of 'Wrong Turn' and 'The Hills Have Eyes', with a minor addition of the back story surrounding the Tasmania lands. Visually I was content but not blown away, everything just seemed way too unoriginal. Before I even began to view the film, I was curious as to why there was a martini glass as the box art. Now that I have seen the film, I still have no answer to that but I guess it's my own personal preference that the cover art be somehow directly related to the film. While most of this review does seem to be more negative than positive, I'd still say to check it out if your taste lies with cannibalism and survival of the fittest themes. Enjoy...


Before I jump into this mostly negative review, I just want to say that I am a huge fan of Sam and Ted Raimi and I was surprised at my distaste for anything they are a part of. Anyway with that said, here it goes...
Okay so here we have another horror film from the 80's that like most of them doesn't really stand out too much amongst the others. However, I was shocked and quite intrigued that there was zero nudity in the film. The 1980's was a decade where nudity in horror films was rampant so it was refreshing to see a complete lack of it. Sadly to say even with that, there is just a lack of execution done overall. While I prefer sometimes to use my mind to create a scene, in this movie the death scenes were quite gory and it was all visually right there for you. With a few interesting characteristics displayed by the killer and a couple of one-liners he spits out, I felt myself wondering as to how much longer until the credits roll. Never a good sign! I found it unrealistic that the 'survivor girl' simply goes about her duties while shutting down the store and doesn't notice that all of her co-workers are missing. The ending was quite ridiculous in terms of the police that arrive on the scene, and their characters were written very much in the same manner as those seen at the finale of the 1982 film "The Dorm That Dripped Blood." My final thought would have to be that while the idea is quite good and setting was certainly perfect for a crazed killer to prey on victims, the execution failed. Check it out, but don't go in expecting much.


Here we have an interesting take on the creature-feature genre combined with the traditional good characters vs. bad characters who have to band together to survive. The film had a slight similarity to 'Tremors 2' in regards to the methods in which the creatures hunt, however other than that this creature was quite fresh I must say. Strong on screen performances were delivered, especially Jill Wagner's portrayal of heroine Polly Watt. Wonderfully executed from start to finish, however there are some instances where your mind may wander off. It is for this reason that I'd say to definitely check out the film since it is a unique take on the popular creature-feature. However, for me it is not something I'd add to my collection or watch a second time. We've all had splinters before and know how they feel, however nothing will prepare you for the splinting pain you're going to see in this film. Enjoy!!!


Okay so here we have another remake attempt by the American film market, but this time it is of a South Korean movie from 2003 titled "A Tale of Two Sisters." Fast forward to 2009 in which its U.S. adaptation is known as "The Uninvited", displays the talents of well-known actress Elizabeth Banks and up-and-coming actress Emily Browning. The on screen performances were strong on all counts, and even the story kept me going throughout the films duration. However, while all of those things were very well done I am sad to say that the finale of the film is predictable and is nothing we haven't seen before. I found myself remembering such amazing hits as "The Sixth Sense", which was phenomenal. And if you haven't seen that one I recommend you do so before seeing this film or any other!!! :) In terms of the film style, it was visually satisfying with some interesting color schemes and angles. It's worth checking out and appreciating for what it does accomplish. Enjoy!!!

This brings us to the conclusion of part three of the DishThis! horror marathon. The next installment is well under way and I hope all you genre fans will keep your eyes peeled as the next few months have a great deal in store. Until then, let the fear consume you but always remember to check your back seat before getting into the car and NEVER let your guard down!

Horror Reviews Are In - Part II

Here it is readers as promised, part two in the horror review series. Just as the initial entry, these posts are to provide you all with various film reviews written by me personally and will range from films that for the most part have for decades been under the radar. However, for those of you that prefer more up-to-date movies there's no reason to worry because I've got a few of those included as well. Now that I've said all that, lets DISH on my latest marathon...


I have to say that initially when I went to view this film, I was quickly bored and found myself distracted and tuning out. However, it was 2:30 in the morning so I could have just been tired. Not giving it a second thought until it was announced that an updated version would be filmed and released in 2009, I went back to it and tried again. This time it was 9 p.m. and I was wide awake. I have to say, Sean Cunningham and Wes Craven did an excellent job with this piece. While the film is extremely violent with its presentation of rape/murder/drugs, etc., the idea represented in this film is quite different than anything that had been put together to this magnitude back in the early 70's. The theme of good vs. evil is clearly represented, however it is showcased in a much different manner than traditional horror films. You've got the rapists and murderers who commit unspeakable acts of cruelty, and then you've got the loving and devoted couple who end up seeking revenge on the deviants that preyed on their daughter. The choppiness of the film is something that had bothered me slightly but after a few viewings, I find that it actually adds more terror and a sense of being stranded with no hope of survival. The graininess too is something that if it had not been there and the picture were more clear, then it would have felt like an entirely different film. Definitely a film to add into a collection and a must if you intend on viewing the 2009 version. Enjoy and just remember to repeat to yourself "It's only a movie!"


Everyone knows I have a place in my heart for the originals, however it's a key part of my life and who I am to give these new additions a chance! I am happy to say that this one definitely doesn't disappoint. It kept all of the important factors that made the 1972 feature so unique and fresh for its time. Obviously with the new technologies available today, this film has an entire different look and feel to it, but don't let that turn you off because it works. The infamous rape scene is still there and just as disturbing as it was before. In terms of alterations to the film, I'd have to say that the most significant change in terms of character development in this update of the classic was that of the escaped convicts son; Justin. This time around he is much more together and not nearly as crazed as his family. He is remorseful and wants to help the victims escape, however it comes off that he himself is somewhat of a victim too. What is important with his character is the sense of redemption that lies beneath his trapped exterior. The casting of the parents seeking revenge was very well done, the intensity on their faces when they discover their daughter and that instant switch that seemed to go off in their eyes. Look closely you can see it on camera the moment they decide to seek vengence. Wes Craven did a phenomenal job here, it's definitely one to go see! Enjoy!!!


"The Dorm That Dripped Blood" is a film that in my opinion is not worth watching twice. The way in which I determine what makes a film fall into that category is whether or not you remember it. I had seen this film once before but it was clearly forgettable since I had no recollection of ever seeing it before. That is why this film is one I'd say is safe to pass on. The killings were nothing special and while I do give kudos to the rare end fate of the killer and survivor girl, the cops were completely ridiculous and stupid. There is nothing worse than poorly written characters, which is sad in this case because the premise of the film is quite intriguing. Unfortunately, the execution of the film as a whole fails completely. Don't expect too much going into it, and maybe you won't be too disappointed.


While the 80's was a time in which the horror genre spawned an abundance of films (most of which were simply forgettable and were also released in an attempt to cash in on the successes of Michael Myers and Jason Voorhees), "The House On Sorority Row" was one of the few that earned its rightful place to be remembered. Now does this mean I think it is a classic and one that blew me away? NO! Absolutely not. The story was quite unique for it's time, however the way in which the events unfolded after the initial killing just did not seem to flow well enough for me. With the updated version coming out in the 4th quarter of this year, I would recommend all true horror fans to see this film first. It is important to recognize and respect the original movie before viewing and judging the newer versions so that way you can see the differences to the story and film style. The big question is will this film end up in my collection... only time will tell.


George A. Romero is one of my all time favorite film makers, and for the most part is known for his extraordinary ability to depict a deteriorating society. With his film currently receiving a Hollywood "upgrade", I just had to re-watch the original to recall what I did and did not enjoy about the film. Let's go with the negatives first, I simply detested the constant sound of the drums anytime something military was going on. It took away from the dialogue for sure, and if you watch/listen closely you can notice that when the actors speak, you can barely hear what they said during these "drumming-moments". There was just no need for that to be in the film as much as it was. The beginning of the film where the story is unfolding almost instantly, I feel was both good and bad. The negative here was that it seemed a bit choppy and all over the place and I couldn't really focus on who was speaking to who via telephones and radios and so forth. However, in terms of film style I feel that this made a great deal of sense regarding the message of the film itself. Romero was showing the audience a series of events in a manner that while slightly confusing, was directly correlated to how a real life event such as this would play out. The bottom line here is chaos would ensue. As a whole in terms of execution of the film and the telling of its story, it doesn't do it for me. However, Romero has remained in tact regarding his film style and storyline. Much like his work on the 'Dead' series, this film expresses what we as human beings revert to in the most terrifying of circumstances. We don't know who to trust or who to help, we simply are looking out for ourselves and those we hold most dearly to our hearts. Like most of his endings, this one too ends with sadness but is also left wide open at the same time. Most audiences are seeking a happy ending, but seriously this is the horror genre; all that should be expected is an ending of some kind. There is no logical reasoning in having a horror film end with a 100% happily ever after feel to it. That is something I have always admired about Romero and the horror genre itself, and someday I will incorporate those themes into my own works! Stay tuned for the new version of Romero's film which hits theaters on February 26, 2010.

That concludes part two of the DishThis! horror review marathon. I hope all you genre fans enjoyed this read and be sure to stay tuned for the next installment. Until then, stay frightened, lock your doors, bolt your windows, and PLEASE... never say "Who's there?"

Horror Reviews Are In - Part I

The first in a series, these posts will provide readers with a variety of films reviewed by me personally and will range from films that have for decades remained under the radar or been forgotten about. However, for those of you that prefer more up-to-date films there's no reason to worry because I've got a few of those included too. With that said, lets DISH on my most latest genre marathon...


I find it funny that this film is called "Offerings", seeing as how it 'offers' absolutely nothing to the horror genre. Full of nothing but direct extractions from the "Halloween" series in terms of the score and physical actions of the killer himself. Yes the maniac in this story at one point actually tilts his head to the side when his name is called out. Then there's the criminal psychology professor hot on his trail, and at one point he ends up at the grave site of the family member he killed only to discover the headstone removed. HELLO!! Can you say Dr. Loomis? For god's sakes the killer in this film was shot 6 times by the 'survivor-girl' and still managed to pursue her. Now, can you say Michael Myers? Seriously, there came a point where I felt like I was watching Michael Myers walk on the set of the wrong film. As for the characters, every single one of them including the Sheriff must have been high or something, because after not only discovering one body part and then another and eating 2 pies of pizza topped with human appendages they still managed to believe that nothing was wrong. They're totally unbelievable and even with the ending shot of the tear cascading down the killer's cheek; it doesn't make up for the previous 90 minutes. My recommendation: if you've never seen Carpenter's "Halloween" first of all there is no excuse for that but watch that first and then this film and you will see just how much this film is a copycat movie.


This film was utterly ridiculous! I would like to say that it got better once the story got going or that the film itself lives up to the title in which it was given, but sadly it falls way short of that. More often than not, "Blood Diner" is described as a horror-comedy, but I must say that frankly this film was neither horrific nor funny! While the story itself is all over the place and the acting is clearly just that, I found it to be quite insulting over the random amounts of 'Hitler' dressed characters; swastika's and all. There was just no reason for that as it did not pertain to the "storyline" of the movie. In addition to that, while times may be different now and this was made in the late 80's, I still wonder why it was that necessary to have such blatant negative connotation made towards the apparent homosexual brother rather than his heterosexual brother? They were both serial killers and equally guilty with their actions, so I just found it unnecessary that the dialogue used conveyed the homosexual brother as being 'more' twisted than that of the heterosexual brother. In the end, the few people in this world who may enjoy films such as these clearly do not have a finely tuned palate in regards to real film making and writing. I guess for mindless fun or to have something on in the background when you've got a group of people hanging out, this could work but I'd say don't waste your time!


What you have here is an erotic thriller directed by Paul Verhoeven that greatly resembles his film "Basic Instinct" which would come along nine years later. Since I have seen the Sharon Stone version many times before and have always respected that film, it was quite interesting to stumble upon this Dutch film and compare the two. I must first say that for those of you who don't have the patience for subtitles then you can stop reading the review now, because you will not watch this since it is filmed in Dutch. With that said, "The 4th Man" ends up being an entirely different film than that of it's American version released in 1992. The film style and direction clearly is quite similar seeing as how both films had the same director. However, the story you see here while still focusing around a "Black Widow" type of leading lady it is actually the man she is preying on with the underlying homosexual desires. The audience becomes aware of this desire in the earlier part of the film and spends more or less the remainder of its runtime building up to the moment in which he succumbs to his basic cravings. In addition there is this sense of distorted reality where the audience begins to wonder whether or not he is actually seeing these things or if it is just his relentless intake of alcohol. I find this distortion definitely keeps the audience invested in the story until the climactic end in which the truths are revealed. For those of you who are fans of "Basic Instinct", you should check this film out and to those who have not yet seen either...I'd say watch "The 4th Man" first and then follow it up with the Sharon Stone version. Enjoy!!!


Okay let's get the abundance of negatives out of the way first shall we... I have to say that this film depicts some of THE most obnoxious and ridiculously stupid characters in the entire history of the horror genre! As a whole there's nothing new here; you've got a group of high school students who think they are better than everyone else and decide to play a prank on the geek and boom there's an accident he becomes facially deformed and goes nuts and seeks revenge on those responsible. What makes these specific characters so stupid is their lack of acknowledgment over what is happening to them and their complete disregard for their so called friends' welfare. Even after discovering two of their friends dead, they still manage to wander off on their own. Then there is the girl who is married to one of the guys and after discovering a dead body, she decides to seduce her husband's best friend and then tell him that he is in fact the father of her child. Hello, what are you doing there are dead bodies all over the place and you're busy cheating on your husband? In terms of the score, well let's just say I was expecting Jason Voorhees to pop out of the shadows at some point! Seriously, listen closely and you'll hear the similarities between the chase scenes in this film to those of the "Friday the 13th" series. "Slaughter High" has no characters with any redeeming qualities, except maybe one of the girls whom in my opinion based on her death scene could have survived. While the film is ridiculously cliched, you have to remember it is a horror film from the 80's and anything that came after Michael Myers, and then Jason Voorhees, and then Freddy Kruger are simply imitations that tried to cash in on their successes. Regarding death scenes there are only two that I felt were visually unique and satisfying, while the rest were mediocre and nothing original. Which now brings me to the positive and my final thought! This film did offer something quite different to horror audiences that was not seen much at all to my knowledge. Fans of the genre have for many decades become accustomed to and more often than not sympathize and root for the "good guys" to triumph over the killer. However, I found myself relating to the "bad guy" in this film and frankly wanted him to get his revenge on those that wronged him. My recommendation is to not go in expecting too much in terms of originality, but more than anything focus on the theme of good vs. evil and try to determine which title belongs to whom. Have fun!


Here we have yet another American horror remake, this time of a South Korean film titled "Into The Mirror". However, unlike many of those that have come before; this one actually is both visually and psychologically satisfying. "Mirrors" has something for everyone. While the story itself is unique, it does hold the same recipe as that of "The Ring" in terms of that it's about discovering a secret from many years in the past that has now caused some type of otherworldly disturbance in the present. Kiefer Sutherland stars as an ex-cop (wow talk about type-casting lol) whom is desperately seeking answers to the mysterious occurrences of the abandoned New York City department store he watches over during the graveyard shift. However, as he begins to uncover the truth of it's history it is those he holds most dear to his heart that are in danger of forever being lost in the world of the mirrors. Alexandre Aja not only writes and directs, but I must say delivers an exceptional film to avid horror followers. You have to admit that it is quite an accomplishment for a french film-maker to take a South Korean film and adapt it into an American version! The performances were quite good and while people I am sure can nitpick at the slightest discrepancies in the storyline and/or film-making, it is what the film does to you as a whole that counts. On a personal and creepy note to say the least as I viewed the climactic scene when the mirrors explode, out of nowhere a sentence that read "don't worry just hold my hand it will be okay" showed up on the screen as a mirror-type image. It stayed there as the scene went on and I felt that something did not make sense, so I slowly reversed the DVD and watched the words disappear slowly. I proceeded to play the scene again, but no words appeared. I have no idea what it was or why it happened but it definitely heightened my already tense nerves. LOL - My final thought is that the film delivers on all counts of performance and style, and is sure to satisfy a wide range of horror fans.

This concludes part one of the DishThis! horror review marathon. I hope all you genre fans enjoyed the read and stay tuned for the next installment coming soon. Until then, stay frightened and never say "Who's there?"

My Life - March 2009

Hey Friends,

Spring is here and you know what that means... time to mingle!

Let's catch up on this month shall we...
I have to say I was a little bit uneasy about turning 25. Part of me started thinking about what I have to look forward to now. I broke it down to being 16 and getting your driver's license, then 18 and being able to vote and graduating high school, turning 21 and being able to drink (legally anyway lol), and now 25 you can rent a car! So after all that what else is there, I thought to myself? And it dawned on me, I have the future and can make it whatever I want regardless of the opinions and doubt of others. Go for the gold, DREAM BIG!

So back to the quarter-century-birthday...
The beginning of the month was difficult, because I began to recall the path my life has taken since high school ended. I thought about the people that have come and gone, and the relationships that I've had. And while there was a great deal of heartache and loss, I did realize that in spite of all that I have still remained and become an even stronger and independent person. So with that I decided to celebrate and embrace my 25th in style and with the best of the best!

This year I decided to keep the party more local and keep the guest list at about 30, rather than try and get everyone into the city like we did last year. With this economy it was just the smarter thing to do, and you know what it payed off. The bash this year was just as fabulous as it was last year, and I am so lucky to have such a great group of people in my life. With everyone these days having conflicting schedules, sometimes we forget that there are people who have our backs and will be there for us through the most difficult chapters of our lives. Looking around at the guests who were able to attend, I realized how much we've all gone through together and that they've all been recurring guest stars in my story. It's very refreshing to remember that you're not alone and that in the end someone will be there for you and will listen.

However, then there are those people who for one reason or another you've lost touch with and for the life of you cannot understand why. Sure people have jobs and issues of their own, and people drift apart. It's a fact of life, but it's important to manage to keep in touch in some way. With technology booming more than ever right now with emails, text messaging, vlogs, twitter, lol and so on... to one day just fall off the radar with no word is just sad for both parties. On a more specific note, right now there is someone I am trying to reconnect with. It's been just over one year since we lost touch. Thinking back on it, we were both going through a rough time and while I tried to reach out he pulled away or just disappeared. Everyone deals with things in their own ways, but right now I am going to do my best to reach him to simply say thank you. We were friends and whether or not he knows it, he helped me a great deal and I just want him to know that.

Which brings me to the here and now...
Life will always throw curve balls and the trick is to face them head-on and to fight your way to the top! Many people tell me how I inspire them to do better or how they envy my ways of just putting myself out there and saying what's on my mind and reaching out into the future. They ask me how I do it, and to be honest I have no idea. This is just me, it's who I am, it's who I've become. For some reason or another the hardships I've had to endure at this point in my life could very well have destroyed me. All I can say is I have to thank my grandparents; Mama and Papa. It is their strength that I have deep within my soul that I hold onto everyday and it's what I tap into whenever something has come along that threatens to bring me down. I fight back and take all of the negatives I have lived through and turn them into something else, it's all I can do. We can't change the past, the past is what it is and while it may have tortured me and left me with scars, the scars may not completely heal but they will be in a place that i will be able to acknowledge them but still successfully and happily move forward into the future.

Thank you to everyone who has stood by me through the best and worst, I love you all.

Until the next DishThis!

I remain...
Forever & Always,
JohnnyBoy