Wednesday Briefs: Don't Look Back #1 (1.0)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

I am going back to an older story and reposting that, so I can focus on Dracula more closely. It's time to revisit Marshall and Lee!  Enjoy!  Don't forget to visit the other Briefers! Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Don't Look Back #1(1.0)

“Stop running and face me, boy.”

The words sent chills skittering along Marshall’s spine. He was torn between the desire to obey and the need to provoke punishment. Giving in and turning was his first instinct, but the idea of being stretched out across the other man’s lap, his ass exposed, bared to receive those glorious swipes of his firm hand was too strong to ignore.

On the other hand, he sure as hell wasn’t going to make it easy on him, either.

Marshall stood at the edge of the trees. Lee was maybe a hundred yards or so behind him. He knew without looking that Lee’s eyes held that intense look he got when he was on the hunt. The dark blue became almost purple. God, his eyes were sexy. Marshall’s own eyes were emerald green and slightly tilted, a genetic throwback to some long dead ancestor. As was his long lush auburn hair that fell straight down his back. He could have tied it so it wouldn’t fly into his face as he ran, but he liked the feel of it on his bare back.

Ahead of him lay an open field, and just across that lay more trees. The trick was to get across the empty space. With no cover, he’d be a sitting duck.

Then again, he intended to be caught, didn’t he? Wasn’t that the whole point of this chase? That and keeping fit.

There was no actual decision to be made. Marshall made no response to Lee’s demand. He grinned to himself, his heart beating faster, his blood pressure rising—that wasn’t the only thing rising. His cock was pressing against the material of his jeans. Oh shit, horniness was rearing its ugly head, demanding satisfaction.

Maybe this would be a short chase, after all. If Lee questioned why the surrender, Marshall would just tell him it was in deference to the twenty some odd years Lee had on him. Didn’t want to hurt the old-timer.

And wouldn’t that just provoke a delicious spanking? Not to mention the fucking that would follow.

Shit, his erection hurt now, just thinking about Lee’s big thick cock inside of him. Decision made.

He darted out from the cover of the trees. Summer was in full bloom, and wildflowers bobbed and weaved their yellow, white, and purple heads, dancing in the heated breeze that blew from the south. Marshall didn’t mind the heat. He welcomed it. It was the cold he wasn’t partial to, and why he felt the need to get the fuck out of Fargo.

Texas. Now there was warmth and sunshine to spare. And wide open spaces. Plenty of room for the two of them. And no one to tell them what they could or couldn’t do.

He could hear Lee’s approach, and he knew that was no accident. Had this been an actual hunt, he would never have heard him coming. Stealth was that man’s middle name. Fucking hot he was too. Marshall had never had another lover. Never wanted one. Lee was all he wanted and all he needed. When you had the best, why look for anything else?

Marshall slowed his own pace. He’d had a good run, but it was time to give in now. Pride only carried you so far, and right now it was losing to desire and need... both of which said fall the fuck down and get ready for punishment... and reward.

A strategically timed tuck and roll brought him to his knees. He automatically assumed the position. Head down, hands behind him, palms up, against the base of his spine, just in the hollow above his ass. He wasn’t even winded and he took pride in the fact. He was in great shape, and he knew Lee loved his body and the pleasure that it gave. At the age of twenty, Marshall wasn’t ripped, not by any means. But he was built, he was strong, without an ounce of fat on his lean frame. And he was limber as hell.

His entire body tingled in anticipation of Lee’s arrival.

“I should take you right here and now.” The familiar drawl came from behind him. He loved the way Lee could elongate any word, giving it a sensual twist that went straight to his cock.

“What’s the matter? Afraid of getting dirty?” He almost dared a glance, to see the reaction his words engendered, but thought better of it at the last minute.  “Can’t your knees take it, old man?”

That did it. He felt Lee’s boot against the small of his back, and then he was face down in the grass, getting an up close and personal taste of the wildflowers. He didn’t dare take the offending blossoms from his mouth, so he grinned and bore it. The serrated leaves bit into his cheek, drawing blood.

If Lee pressed hard enough, he could easily snap Marshall’s spine. But he wouldn’t. That wasn’t what this was about. Discipline, yes. Setting limits, yes. Killing... no.

“You have a mouth on you, boy.”

Marshall made no reply, due to the greenery in his mouth. And because he’d not received permission to do so.

“Roll over and look at me,” Lee directed. The pressure lessened and Marshall breathed more easily, then did as he was told, spitting out what was in his mouth. The bulge in his jeans was damn painful now, and more than obvious. He could see flames of desire burning in Lee’s eyes that raked him over from head to toe. “I said you have a mouth on you, boy. What do you say to that?”

“Yes, Sir, I do, Sir.”

“Might have to put that to good use.”

Marshall’s pulse quickened. He knew it wouldn’t be as easy as that. First the discipline, then the reward. He relished them both.

Lee unfastened the large silver buckle that gleamed on his leather belt. Marshall was more than passing familiar with the feel of it against his flesh.

to be continued

Now see what the other Briefers are up to!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

Saturday is Horror Day #213 - The Haunting(1999)

 The Haunting(1999)

Eleanor, known as Nell (Lili Taylor) has not had it easy, taking care of her invalid mother for eleven torturous years, always at her beck and call and the incessant beating of her cane against the wall. Now that the old woman has passed, perhaps Lili can relax... except that her sister Jane (Virginia Madsen) and her husband Lou (Tom Irwin) have power of attorney and they have decided to sell the flat out from under Nell, leaving her homeless. Her sister says that Nell can come stay with them - if she wants to work for her living, including caring for their bratty child, Ritchie (Saul Priever). Just when all seems lost, Nell receives a phone call from a doctor telling her to look in the paper where she finds a study for insomnia that is paying participants $900 a week plus room and board. Nell leaps at the opportunity and is accepted for the study.

Dr. David Marrow (Liam Neeson) has placed an ad for an insomnia study. But what the participants don't know is that his actual purpose is to conduct a study on group fear. His assistant Mary (Alix Koromzay) objects that this isn't fair to the people involved, but the doctor insists he can't conduct the study any other way.

Nell follows the directions and finds herself at the gates of an enormous mansion where she meets the surly caretaker Mr. Dudley (Bruce Dern). He lets her in and tells her to ask for his wife (Marian Seldes). Next to arrive is Theo (Catherine Zeta-Jones) and then Luke (Owen Wilson), followed by Dr. Marrow and Mary. From the beginning, strange things seem to be happening, including an accident which sends Mary to the hospital, never to be seen again.

Nell claims that there is something about the house and about the man who built it - allegedly as a home for his future children - something evil. But the others insist she is having a breakdown. Is the house haunted, or is Nell behind the mysterious goings on?

The Haunting is a remake of the 1963 film starring Julie Harris, which is from an original story by Shirley Jackson. Despite the famous cast, the star of the show is the actual mansion, which gives off elegant/creepy vibes from the beginning with its over the top opulence and its disturbing statuary of children, as well as a rotating room with its own carousel, and a fireplace you would fit a football team in. Lili Taylor does a good job as the tortured Nell, who only wants a place to belong, and someone to belong to. Catherine Zeta-Jones is stunning, as usual, and Owen Wilson clueless, while Liam Neeson swings between villain and victim. It's not a perfect film, but it does have a certain ambience as the people who are locked inside until morning (shades of House on Haunted Hill!0 try to negotiate what appear to be evil spirits. I think the ending will haunt you for a while. I'll give this film 3.75 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #38(8.4)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Avram and Dracula are left alone on Andrei's boat while he goes to join his family. When Avram suggests they go too, Nico reveals his snobbish side. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Dracula. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #38(8.4)

“Must you be so nasty?” Avram felt exasperation course through him unexpectedly. Perhaps the stress of their situation was getting to him. Or maybe Nico’s perpetual disdain of other people was too much.

For a split second, Avram thought he saw a wounded expression pass through the vampire’s eyes. But the next moment, he had returned to his usual inscrutable self.

“I am what I am,” he said simply.

“By the grace of God?” Avram easily finished the Biblical quotation.

“Hardly.” Nico sneered. “God’s so-called grace has no place in my life and you know it. If you persist in worshipping an invisible deity, that is your concern, not mine.”

Avram noticed that Dracula’s skin had taken on a faint tinge. Not a good sign, considering his poor circulation. He immediately regretted baiting him. He raised one hand in apology.

“I’m sorry, Nico. It’s a difficult time we are going through.”  He took a seat on the bench near the stern of the boat and patted the seat beside him.” Here, come sit down. Relax a little.” The vampire maintained a petulant attitude for all of ten seconds, then deigned to join Avram, as if doing so were his own idea.

They sat in mutual silence for a few minutes, as darkness fell around them. Dracula’s features were easily visible in the light of the nearly full moon, aided by the twinkling of myriad stars like jewels scattered across the dark cloak of night.

“You once belonged to the Church, did you not?” Avram broke the silence at length. He knew so little about Nico’s background, but he wanted to know more about the man who had raised him and kept him safe from harm all these years. Perhaps in part it was to make up for his own lack of family history, for he’d never been able to learn much about his parents and he barely remembered them.  He wasn’t even sure he’d receive an answer from the other man, but he felt the need to at least ask. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Another silence fell between them. Avram had decided he would receive no reply when Dracula spoke.

“At one time, yes. Church attendance was demanded of me. I had no choice.”

Avram decided to take a stab in the dark, as the old saying went. “Would that be in Gunther’s church?”

“Your priest friend? Yes, that church.”

Avram could read nothing decisive in Dracula’s tone of voice, but that would tend to explain why he had felt the need to desecrate that particular church in such a way. Especially if the memories it held were unpleasant ones, which he suspected they were.

Maybe he should change the subject. Something safer. Well, comparatively so.

“Nico,” he said softly, scooting closer to the vampire on the seat. “Tell me a story.”

The vampire snorted. “Aren’t you a little old for that now?” But his sarcasm was at least gentle, as if no malice lay behind it.

“Maybe.” Avram shrugged. “Or maybe not. Tell me about my parents. And about  how you found me.” Of course, he knew the story well. But he felt the need to hear it again, a reminder of what bound them and how their journey had begun.

 to be continued

Now go see what the other Briefers are up to!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

 

Saturday is Horror Day #212 - Amber Alert, Dracula Untold

 Amber Alert

Jaq (Hayden Panettiere) has an appointment she has to keep, but when the rideshare she arranged for is stolen out from under her, she is temporarily flummoxed. Just then another driver appears, dropping off his fare. She tries to engage him, but the driver Shane (Tyler James Williams) has places to go and things to do and he is off the clock. But Jaq persists until he reluctantly agrees to take her where she is going.

As they are driving, they each receive a notice on their cell phones of an Amber Alert, along with a 

description and picture of the car in question, but no plate. Jaq looks up to see a car like the one in the alert, just ahead of them. She asks Shane if he thinks that could be the one but he tells her that there are too many of that type of car in the whole city, it's not likely. As they approach a light, a large message lights up with the amber alert information, and the driver she had observed, suddenly pulls through the intersection, not waiting for the light. Jaq senses that this might be the guy the police are looking for and urges Shane to follow him. He does, albeit reluctantly, and they follow him to a gas station, where Shane points out that he just needed gas. The odd thing is that he leaves without ever getting gas... and the chase is on.

If you are a parent, this movie will hit close to home. One minute your child is there and the next they are gone. A stark reminder that there are predators in this world. Also, it's a reminder to trust your gut instincts, because that might be all you have to go on. Two strangers follow a man they think has kidnapped a child, not knowing if they are on a fool's errand or not. Sometimes it seems as though they might be being foolish. They have also blown off prior engagements to fight for a stranger's child... and yet they persist. I think this was a great testament to the fact that there are good people out there who are willing to fight for others, for the weak and helpless, for the children.

I did enjoy this film, and I'll admit Jaq made me cry at one point. I wasn't sure how the ending would play out, but I hoped for a happy and satisfying conclusion. Definitely worth watching. You may remember Hayden Panettiere from Heroes, where she played the cheerleader who was destined to save the world.  I'll give this film 4 Stars.

Dracula Untold

The kingdom of Transylvania is threatened by the Turks, and have been off and on for many years. The prince, Vlad (Luke Evans) was once a political prisoner of the Turks, where as a young boy he learned many things, including how to fight. Now he is a grown man who has a wife, Mirena (Sarah Gadon) and children he needs to protect against the Turks, led by their sultan, Mehmed (Dominic Cooper). While out with his men, Vlad discovers a place where Turkish troops were mysteriously slaughtered - and not by any of his troops. He discovers a cave that holds the secret of their demise, and barely escapes alive, keeping the knowledge of that cave to himself.

Not wishing to endanger his kingdom, Vlad negotiates a peace with the Turks, only to have his trust 

turned against him when the Turks demand he surrender 1000 young boys to them for their army - just the way his father had sacrificed himself and the other boys. Moreover, Mehmed demands Vlad's son, intending to raise him as his father had raised Vlad. That's the last straw. Vlad returns to the cave and the master vampire (Charles Dance) who resides there, determined to do whatever he needs to do to save his kingdom and his family.

Dracula Untold is actually an origin story, something to explain how Count Dracula of film and novel becomes the way it is. It's actually a romanticization that combines some actual history of Vlad Dracula, aka Vlad Tepes (the Impaler) with Bram Stoker's vampire. The film explains away his cruelties as a necessity to combat the Turks. To some degree, this is true. Vlad Dracula was held as a political captive while a boy, and was subjected to much cruel treatment, probably some sexual in nature, and he learned a lot about their methods of torture. Lessons he put to good user later in life. The film doesn't mention his younger brother, Radu the Handsome, who was also a captive, but was treated much nicer than Vlad. In fact, in later years, he had a relationship with the Turkish sultan. It's fair to say this did not endear him to his brother.

I thought Luke Evans did a great job as Dracula, playing him as a good husband and father and ruler.  I don't believe the original Vlad was necessarily a good husband, but he did care for his people. He also had a cruel streak, no doubt a result of his treatment by the Turks during his formative years. That being said, I liked that they tackled the origin story of the vampire and presented it in a realistic fashion. It was interesting to watch, and the ending hinted of a sequel. However, I am pretty sure that is off the table. But I still recommend this film, especially if you are a fan of Vlad and/or Dracula as I am. I am giving this film 4 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #37(8.3)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Dealing with a vampire is not always easy. See what's happening in this week's chapter of Dracula. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what they're up to. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #37(8.3)

“Are you hungry?” Avram ventured a guess. “I can take care of that for you.” He didn’t really think that was the issue, as the vampire had only recently fed. Or at least he assumed he had. They’d never really discussed what happened that night between him and the late Doina, and he wasn’t about to ask.

“I’m fine, Avram. You worry too much.” The vampire unexpectedly flicked the tip of Avram’s nose in a playful gesture.  At least he appeared to be in a good mood, all things considered.

“It is perhaps… companionship you seek?” Avram was trying to be delicate and not offensive when questioning the state of his foster father’s libido. Another topic that was not willingly touched on

In one graceful move, Nico seemed to glide across the deck. He slung a companionable arm about Avram’s shoulders. Leaning in to him, he asked in a seductive tone, “Are you perhaps offering?”

Oy vey, this man can be so infuriating.

Avram knew damn well the vampire was toying with him in order to provoke a reaction of some sort. Why, he didn’t know. Boredom, perhaps?  The success of his maneuver could be attested to by the sudden warmth in Avram’s cheeks, despite knowing Dracula was kidding. Well, according to the saying, turnabout is fair play.

“And what if I said yes?” he riposted, dramatically fluttering his eyelashes. “Would that answer your question?” He puckered his lips, as if he were ready to be kissed.  His gesture was met with a disdainful laugh as Nico pulled away from him, crossing the boat to stand looking out across the river.

When Avram glanced at him, he was surprised to see a slight shudder steal through the vampire’s frame.  Or perhaps it was a trick of the moonlight.

“We were invited to join Andrei and his family, would you like to do that?” Avram hoped he sounded more optimistic than he actually felt.

“Not we… you.”

Of course he’d heard. Foolish to think otherwise.

“Don’t let me stop you, Avram. Feel free to associate with the hoi polloi if that is what you desire.”

Avram clenched his fists in anger at the offensive words, although he was not surprised by them either. The vampire thought he was above everyone else and always had. No wonder he got along with the Hapsburg bitch so well. Avram’s only consolation was that he not only charmed the empress, but he also dominated her in private. And she reciprocated with financial gratitude. That was the only reason they were headed to Vienna now—besides needing to get away from Bistritza, at least for a little while, they really needed the money.

Maria Theresa would put them up, she’d done it before. And Nico would play dominant to her submissive. As for Avram, he would simply try to stay out of her way. Antisemitism was strong in that one. He would have to rely on his own ingenuity and Nico’s assistance to avoid her as much as possible. To that end, they posed as master and servant.

Naturally, Avram got to play the part of the servant. What else could he do?

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Saturday is Horror Day #211 - The Hound of the Baskervilles (1959)

 The Hound of the Baskervilles (1959)

Baskerville Hall has been cursed after Sir Hugo Baskerville sullied the place with his drunkenness, violence, and complete disregard for anyone but himself. But one night he finally went too far, and a curse was placed upon his descendants. Fast forward a number of years. The current master of Baskerville Hall has died under, shall we say, mysterious circumstances, and his son, now Sir Henry Baskerville (Christopher Lee) is headed home to claim his inheritance. However, he is mindful of the curse and reluctant, so he seeks advice from renowned detective, Sherlock Holmes (Peter Cushing). Holmes listens to his tale, though obviously he gives no credence to the possibility of a curse. However, when a tarantula almost kills Sir Henry in Holmes' flat, he admits that maybe someone wishes to harm him.  He agrees that Sir Henry should not travel there alone. However, he himself cannot accompany him, but there is no reason that his associate, Dr. Watson (Andre Morell) cannot. So the two men set off.

On arrival, they discover that a prisoner by the name of Selden has escaped from the nearby Dartmoor 

Prison. At the Hall, Sir Henry finds a couple who served his father, the Barrymores (John Le Mesurier and Helen Goss). Holmes left strict instructions to Watson to never allow Sir Henry to go onto the moors alone, but one night he does just that and meets a strange girl. He impulsively follows her, despite her obvious desire to lose him, and becomes instantly smitten. He learns that the girl, Cecile (Maria Landi) lives with her brother Stapleton (Ewen Solon) nearby. 

Doctor Mortimer (Francis De Wolff) had attended Sir Henry's father before his death and advises the son to be careful as he has a weak heart. Watson and Sir Henry run into a pastor (Miles Malleson) with an unusual penchant for entomology, and a telescope that seems to be fixed on the Hall. Hearing the fabled hound baying across the moor is just the icing on the cake, as Watson inadvertently puts himself into the very predicament Holmes had advised against. Is the curse of the Baskervilles a real thing?

This 1959 version of the famous story by Arthur Conan Doyle, is a Hammer film featuring two of the studio's greatest stars - Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. It was also the first Holmes film to be shot in color. Peter Cushing makes a great Holmes, although there is no evidence of his drug habit, but that is not surprising for the times in which this was made. As is the lack of real violence. It doesn't have to be seen to be felt, after all. Imagination plays a great part in good horror films. I like Andre Morell's Watson, who was not made out to be the buffoon that Nigel Bruce was forced to play. In fact, he is a good foil for Cushing's Holmes. Christopher Lee is his usual patrician self as Sir Henry Baskerville. I do have to say that the relationship between Sir Henry and Cecile was sudden and not believable. Luckily it's but a small part of the plot. Also, in the original story the Stapletons were posing as a brother and sister when in actuality they were married, but in this film, they are father and daughter. 

Even after all these years, this film holds up as a good version of the story, and I enjoyed it as much as I ever did.  I am a huge fan of Basil Rathbone's Holmes, and also the more recent Benedict Cumbermatch series, but Peter Cushing is just as good. I'll give this film 4 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #37(8.3)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Dealing with a vampire is not always easy. See what's happening in this week's chapter of Dracula. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what they're up to. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #37(8.3)

“Are you hungry?” Avram ventured a guess. “I can take care of that for you.” He didn’t really think that was the issue, as the vampire had only recently fed. Or at least he assumed he had. They’d never really discussed what happened that night between him and the late Doina, and he wasn’t about to ask.

“I’m fine, Avram. You worry too much.” The vampire unexpectedly flicked the tip of Avram’s nose in a playful gesture.  At least he appeared to be in a good mood, all things considered.

“It is perhaps… companionship you seek?” Avram was trying to be delicate and not offensive when questioning the state of his foster father’s libido. Another topic that was not willingly touched on

In one graceful move, Nico seemed to glide across the deck. He slung a companionable arm about Avram’s shoulders. Leaning in to him, he asked in a seductive tone, “Are you perhaps offering?”

Oy vey, this man can be so infuriating.

Avram knew damn well the vampire was toying with him in order to provoke a reaction of some sort. Why, he didn’t know. Boredom, perhaps?  The success of his maneuver could be attested to by the sudden warmth in Avram’s cheeks, despite knowing Dracula was kidding. Well, according to the saying, turnabout is fair play.

“And what if I said yes?” he riposted, dramatically fluttering his eyelashes. “Would that answer your question?” He puckered his lips, as if he were ready to be kissed.  His gesture was met with a disdainful laugh as Nico pulled away from him, crossing the boat to stand looking out across the river.

When Avram glanced at him, he was surprised to see a slight shudder steal through the vampire’s frame.  Or perhaps it was a trick of the moonlight.

“We were invited to join Andrei and his family, would you like to do that?” Avram hoped he sounded more optimistic than he actually felt.

“Not we… you.”

Of course he’d heard. Foolish to think otherwise.

“Don’t let me stop you, Avram. Feel free to associate with the hoi polloi if that is what you desire.”

Avram clenched his fists in anger at the offensive words, although he was not surprised by them either. The vampire thought he was above everyone else and always had. No wonder he got along with the Hapsburg bitch so well. Avram’s only consolation was that he not only charmed the empress, but he also dominated her in private. And she reciprocated with financial gratitude. That was the only reason they were headed to Vienna now—besides needing to get away from Bistritza, at least for a little while, they really needed the money.

Maria Theresa would put them up, she’d done it before. And Nico would play dominant to her submissive. As for Avram, he would simply try to stay out of her way. Antisemitism was strong in that one. He would have to rely on his own ingenuity and Nico’s assistance to avoid her as much as possible. To that end, they posed as master and servant.

Naturally, Avram got to play the part of the servant. What else could he do?

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

 

Saturday is Horror Day #210 - Glorious

 Glorious

After a painful break-up, Wes (Ryan Kwanten) hits the road as well as the bottle. Finding a remote rest area, Wes tries to get the only candy bar from an antiquated vending machine but is thwarted. A strange woman observes him and helps him retrieve the errant candy, offering him some strange advice - to clear out his back seat so he can sleep horizontally. The intoxicated Wes heeds her advice and gathers all the stuff by a fire pit, where he burns it. Satisfied, he heads into the rest area and promptly gets sick in one of two stalls.

Thinking he is alone, as there were no other cars in the lot, Wes is startled to hear a voice (J.K. Simmons) 

coming from the other stall. Wes isn't exactly in the mood for conversation, but the voice is persistent and even sympathetic.  All Wes wants to do is get his girl back, not trade life stories with a strange in a men's room. Thinking there is something off about this strange man in the stall, Wes tries to leave but finds himself locked in.  The voice introduces himself as Ghat, and he has something important to tell Wes. He says Wes being there is no accident, and they have important business that needs to be taken care of together. In fact, the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

This film is most definitely unusual and very Lovecraftian in nature and does take place entirely inside a bathroom. And yet it manages to keep you guessing about what is really going on, who or what is Ghat, and how is Wes going to get out of this place intact? Is that even possible? And what's going on with that glory hole? You might remember Ryan Kwanten from True Blood - he played Sookie's crazy brother Jason Stackhouse. And everyone knows and loves J.K. Simmons.  Even though we never see him, just hearing his recognizable voice is enough to picture him.  Wes has to deal with his own demons, both literally and figuratively, and the outcome is never certain until the very end. It's a short film but I think it's definitely worth watching. I'll rate this film between 3.5 and 4 Stars, mostly because of J.K.Simmons.

Book Review: Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

 

Parable of the Sower       

Author: Octavia E. Butler

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; Reprint edition

American release date: April 30, 2019

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Dystopian Fiction/368 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Lauren Olamina is fifteen years old, the daughter of a Baptist preacher. She lives a sheltered life with her family inside a gated community in the Los Angeles area. But sheltered is a relative term as the world has become something virtually unrecognizable from what it once was. Drastic global climate change and a series of economic crises have proven to be too much for mankind to handle and society has disintegrated into lawless chaos. Mere survival is a struggle and the luxuries of yesterday but a dream. What is left of any government is of no help. If you want police protection, you have to pay for it, and there is no guarantee you’ll receive it. Building on fire? The fire department will charge you for the water to put it out.

Lauren lives with her father and stepmother and three brothers. Her birth mother was addicted during her pregnancy to a drug that caused Lauren to become hyperempathetic – she can feel other’s pain, and that is not a good thing. Even living in a gated community isn’t a perfect solution. There are problems within and problems without. Junkies and others break in to rob and harm people. A new drug, called Pyro, causes those who take it to enjoy setting fires, so that is what they do.

People dream of leaving the state and heading north – to Oregon, Washington, or even Canada. But there is no guarantee that safety lies up North, or that other states will allow people inside their territory.

Lauren has listened to what her father preaches all of her life, but at fifteen, she no longer believes in his religion. She has her own ideas about how things work, and she begins to write them down. She calls it Earthseed, and at the core is her belief that God is change. She keeps her writings secret, and she also prepares a pack of necessities, in case she has to leave in a hurry.  Her forethought proves to be propitious when an unexpected calamity drives her away from her home, heading who knows where. Now it’s a question of how she can survive, and who can she trust?

This is my first time reading Octavia Butler, but it won’t be my last. She is an excellent writer who draws you into her world so that you quickly become immersed.  The dystopian world she describes is eerily similar to the world we now live in, although written in 1993. But the book itself begins in 2024, which is unnerving at times, and continues up through 2027. I have to warn you that it is a bleak story in many ways, where the rich have everything and the poor are fighting for scraps, with little protection or guidance. It’s almost as if she could read the future.

I like the basic concept of Earthseed, but I would make one change in her philosophy. I would not refer to any God, for that term is really outdated and archaic, but I think Life works instead. Life is change. And that we know to be true. If this is our future, it is bleak indeed. Change needs to happen, and quickly. There is a second book in the series, which I intend to read. I’m hoping for a happy, or at least a happier ending. This book is well worth reading. And hopefully someone will come away from it with ideas on how to keep it from happening.

Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #36(8.2)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

As if Avram didn't have enough to worry about, now Andrei has seen things he shouldn't have. At least not for his and Nico's safety. Will he tell? Only time will tell. And what is Dracula up to now? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Dracula. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #36(8.2)

“All I ask,” Avram began again, but Andrei quickly interrupted.

“I know what you are asking. And out of respect for Father Gunther, I won’t say a word.  And for you. But not for him.” He spat in Dracula’s direction, although it was a meaningless gesture as the vampire was nowhere in sight, resting below deck. Despite his brave words, though, Andrei spoke softly, as if fearful of being overheard.

That would have to do, Avram decided. He was fairly certain, though, that Andrei would manage to communicate at least some of his apprehensions and beliefs regarding his passengers to his cousin. For that, he couldn’t blame him.  He would just have to deal with any potential problem as they arose, and hope that Nico did nothing else he should not. At least not within sight of the man who was providing their next form of transportation.

*

The sun was just beginning its fiery descent into the horizon before them when Andrei poled the boat to a stop and set the anchor. Avram saw no sign of the man they were to meet, but he also wasn’t sure precisely what the smugglers’ arrangement was.

“We are early,” Andrei announced to Avram. “He will arrive in the morning. In the meantime, I’m going to visit with my family. You are welcome to join me.”

Although he didn’t say them, the words but not him hung palpably in the air.

“Thank you, but I shall stay here. We’ll be fine,” Avram assured him, although he knew Andrei didn’t really care if Nico was fine or not. He couldn’t really blame the smuggler—the vampire’s manners were not always the best, and it was useless to argue with him about them. Although he could be most charming when he chose to be, or when it was required. And he would need to use all that charm where they were going.

“As you wish. Take care, Avram.” With a quick nod, Andrei disappeared over the side of the boat and slipped away into the encroaching night.

Mere moments after the smuggler was out of sight, Nico casually emerged onto the deck. Not very subtle, was he?  “Good evening, Nico.”

“Avram.” The vampire nodded as he gave a cursory glance about the deck, as if to ascertain what he already knew.

“He won’t be back until morning,” Avram volunteered. “His cousin won’t be here until then either, so Andrei is staying the night with his family. I assume they live nearby.”

“Better for me then.”

Avram narrowed his eyes at his employer. What was he up to now? And how would his actions get them into any further trouble than they were already in? But Dracula’s expression revealed nothing.

Avram hesitated for a moment. He rose from where he’d been sitting, the groan from his aching bones testifying to the fact that he hadn’t moved in a while, and cautiously approached the vampire. “Better for you what?”

“Perhaps better for me you should not know.”

Avram swore he could see a smirk on those well-formed lips. He rolled his eyes and shook his head in disdain. “That has never been and never will be in our best interest, Nico. I would rather you tell me now and save me the trouble of cleaning up some mess after the fact.”

When Nico flinched, Avram wondered if perhaps he had gone too far.

No, he didn’t really think so.

to be continued

Now go visit the other Briefers and see what's up!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday is Horror Day #209 - The Four Skulls of Jonathan Drake

 The Four Skulls of Jonathan Drake

Anthropologist Jonathan Drake (Eduard Franz) has a recurring nightmare about shrunken heads. He believes that the men in his family are cursed because of a longstanding feud with a tribe of South American Indians. Concerned about his only brother, Kenneth (Paul Cavanagh), he decides to visit him. But he arrives to find a funeral for his brother in progress! When he demands the coffin be opened, he is horrified to discover his brother's head is missing!

Drake's only child, Alison (Valerie French) is concerned about her father, as his Dr. Emil Zurich (Henry 

Daniell), a fellow anthropologist. The police are baffled, when they do bother to take the situation seriously. The investigation is being led by Police Lieutenant Jeff Rowan (Grant Richards). It quickly becomes clear that his interest in the case is primarily due to the presence of Alison. One night, her father is attacked and seems to be dead. But closer inspection shows this is no natural happening, but a poisoning! It's a race against time to learn what has happened to Drake. When it is discovered to be curare, the investigation is turned in a completely different direction. Now Drake's life is even more on the line than before, although they are no closer to discovering the person behind this series of events. A possible hypothesis was disregarded as preposterous but they might have to consider it now!

Before I discuss the film itself, there are factors to take into consideration. First, it was made in 1959, 

and it looks it. Black and white (not a problem for me, sometimes adds to the ambience of a horror film). The acting is indicative of the time. Not that it's bad, but stiffer than we might be used to now. Also, the writing. Naturally, it is not gory, and any violence, including heads being sliced off, are off screen. That being said, that could have been a little more smoothly.  There is a character named Zutai, who belongs to the same South American tribe and resembles a living shrunken head, with rather gruesome makeup. Charles Gemora did not only the makeup for the film, but also designed and sculpted the shrunken heads.

It was probably pretty scary back in the day. I didn't find it frightening, but I thought it was interesting to watch. Two of the actors were well known and very well respected, Eduard Franz and Henry Daniell). I have seen both in other things, especially Daniell. I think he does horror well. That being said, no, not a great film, but something a little different in the horror genre. How often do you see shrunken heads as the subject of a film? Beetlejuice doesn't count, although that was a great shrunken head! I'll give this film 2.75 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #35(8.1)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Now that Andrei has seen what Dracula is capable of, will that make things awkward for the trio? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Dracula. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #35(8.1)

When had life become so difficult? Avram wished, not for the first time, that they’d remained in Bistritz. Sure, problems arose there at times—usually of the financial variety, but nothing such as this. Only when they ventured out of the relative safety of the castle and its environs did they find themselves embroiled in conflict. Of course he understood the reason for their leaving, but that didn’t make the current circumstances any more palatable.

The storm they had so skillfully evaded, thanks to Nico, had eventually petered out, a reluctant sun appearing at last.  But it had clearly not been forgotten. Avram could tell that Andrei was clearly shaken after having witnessed Dracula’s masterful manipulation of the elements. He maintained a respectful distance from the vampire, which was facilitated by the latter fortunately choosing to spend most of his time below deck. There was no longer any reason for them to assist Andrei, everything running smoothly now. Avram couldn’t help but notice that from time to time the smuggler made a sign with his fingers as if to ward off evil, one that he aimed toward Dracula, although the gesture was lost to the vampire.

Avram sighed. He hadn’t wanted to say anything about what had happened, but common sense told him he needed to.  “Andrei,” he began tentatively. The other man was tending to the sail. He glanced toward Avram. Almost warily, it seemed to Avram.

“Yes, Avram?”

“I would appreciate it if you would keep what happened… that is, what you saw…. Well, between us, if you don’t mind.”  He hoped his request would be enough. No need to get Nico involved as that might not end well for anyone.

Andrei quickly crossed himself and shuddered. As though someone had walked over his grave, to paraphrase Swift. He didn’t speak immediately, as though considering his words.

“The old bunica,” he finally muttered. “She has said things. I never gave them any credence before, because she’s crazy, you know, but now…” The words hung heavily in the air between them as he turned an accusing gaze at Avram. “You should know better than anyone, Avram. Is he what they say he is?”

His worst fears realized, Avram braced himself for the word strigoi—or some variation thereof—but it never came. What Andrei asked, he could never and would never admit to. Not to anyone. He knew where his primary loyalty lay. He returned the smuggler’s gaze without flinching. He’d gone through this before— more than once— and knew how much their lives depended on his ability to weave a credible yarn.

“He is my employer,” he said simply. “And he’s my guardian. Nico took me in and raised me when I was but a small child, alone in the world, my parents dead. He didn’t have to do that, but he did. I owe him my life. And I know that he is a good man.” Inwardly, he cursed the old woman, wondering what exactly she was saying about Dracula. And why. That conversation would have to wait.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

Book Review: Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe

 

Gender Queer: A Memoir       

Author: Maia Kobabe

Publisher: Oni Press

American release date: July 5, 2022

Format/Genre/Length: Hardback/LGBTQ Memoir/256 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

This graphic novel is the memoir of Maia Kobabe. Ey wanted eir family and friends to understand eir being non-binary in a way they could comprehend and hopefully accept. Eir struggle to find an identity for emselves began early, at a time when there were few role models to look up to. Although everyone automatically identified em as female, ey did not feel that way, but it’s very hard to get other people to understand what you yourself don’t completely understand.

 Maia has a very engaging voice, and a great storytelling style. I liked er artwork as well and appreciated eir honesty as ey bared eir soul in the pages of this book. The people in the United States are going through a difficult time right now, with trans rights being not just pushed aside but discarded. No one seems to matter to the current administration, other than the wealthy. It’s important for everyone to gain a better understanding of transpeople, rather than fearing them and trampling on their rights. This is also an important book for young people who might be struggling with their own identity to know they are not alone.

Saturday is Horror Day #208 - Berberian Sound Studio

 Berberian Sound Studio

Gilderoy (Toby Jones) is a British sound engineer hired to work on an Italian film he believes to be about horses, The Equestrian Vortex. But that illusion is quickly dispelled when he finds himself actually working on a horror film involving witches, priests, and torture. Not that either the producer, Francesco (Cosimo Fusco) or the director Santini (Antonio Mancino) will admit to that. In fact, Santini pompously proclaims it is not a horror film, it is a Santini film!

Things begin to go wrong from the outset. Gilderoy tries to be reimbursed for certain expenses he incurred on his way there, but is given the runaround. The room he was promised turns out to be a cubby hole within the studio. Uncomfortable with the film to begin with, Gilderoy's only connection to reality are the letters from home he receives from his mother. But before long, the line between reality and film begin to become hopelessly blurred.

This film is probably not for everyone, but I found it very interesting, especially with the peek behind the scenes into the sound end of movie making. We never see the film that is being made, but we get a pretty good picture from what we hear. The various actors come to the studio to record their lines, and some to record unusual sounds that the characters make, such as a demon. I was fascinated to see what sorts of things were used to produce the sounds that correspond to what we see on the screen.  For example, someone being drowned was made by swishing clothing around in a tub of water. Gilderoy stabbs heads of cabbage to imitate a stabbing in the film. 

I'll admit that while the concept is unique, the delivery is somewhat flawed and at times confusing. Gilderoy undergoes a transformation from the timid little man he was at the beginning of the film, but it isn't really clear why he changes as he does, or why this horror film that everyone says isn't a horror film affects him so. The ending itself it ambiguous and I had to look up an explanation. Still, I found it a very interesting film and I think it won't disappoint. I'll give this film 3.75 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #35 (8.1)

  Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Now that Andrei has seen what Dracula is capable of, will that make things awkward for the trio? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Dracula. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #35(8.1)

When had life become so difficult? Avram wished, not for the first time, that they’d remained in Bistritz. Sure, problems arose there at times—usually of the financial variety, but nothing such as this. Only when they ventured out of the relative safety of the castle and its environs did they find themselves embroiled in conflict. Of course he understood the reason for their leaving, but that didn’t make the current circumstances any more palatable.

The storm they had so skillfully evaded, thanks to Nico, had eventually petered out, a reluctant sun appearing at last.  But it had clearly not been forgotten. Avram could tell that Andrei was clearly shaken after having witnessed Dracula’s masterful manipulation of the elements. He maintained a respectful distance from the vampire, which was facilitated by the latter fortunately choosing to spend most of his time below deck. There was no longer any reason for them to assist Andrei, everything running smoothly now. Avram couldn’t help but notice that from time to time the smuggler made a sign with his fingers as if to ward off evil, one that he aimed toward Dracula, although the gesture was lost to the vampire.

Avram sighed. He hadn’t wanted to say anything about what had happened, but common sense told him he needed to.  “Andrei,” he began tentatively. The other man was tending to the sail. He glanced toward Avram. Almost warily, it seemed to Avram.

“Yes, Avram?”

“I would appreciate it if you would keep what happened… that is, what you saw…. Well, between us, if you don’t mind.”  He hoped his request would be enough. No need to get Nico involved as that might not end well for anyone.

Andrei quickly crossed himself and shuddered. As though someone had walked over his grave, to paraphrase Swift. He didn’t speak immediately, as though considering his words.

“The old bunica,” he finally muttered. “She has said things. I never gave them any credence before, because she’s crazy, you know, but now…” The words hung heavily in the air between them as he turned an accusing gaze at Avram. “You should know better than anyone, Avram. Is he what they say he is?”

His worst fears realized, Avram braced himself for the word strigoi—or some variation thereof—but it never came. What Andrei asked, he could never and would never admit to. Not to anyone. He knew where his primary loyalty lay. He returned the smuggler’s gaze without flinching. He’d gone through this before— more than once— and knew how much their lives depended on his ability to weave a credible yarn.

“He is my employer,” he said simply. “And he’s my guardian. Nico took me in and raised me when I was but a small child, alone in the world, my parents dead. He didn’t have to do that, but he did. I owe him my life. And I know that he is a good man.” Inwardly, he cursed the old woman, wondering what exactly she was saying about Dracula. And why. That conversation would have to wait.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb