Beyond Fest, the highest-attended genre film festival in the US, is excited to announce its full slate of 2017 programming featuring 32 events and 23 West Coast premieres of cinematic excess. Co-presented by Shudder, Beyond Fest returns to Hollywood’s famed Egyptian Theatre for 12 days of movies, music and mayhem spanning Friday, September 29th – Tuesday, October 10th to generate funds for the nonprofit 501c3 American Cinematheque.
With a diverse slate that includes films from all corners of the globe Beyond Fest is proud to open with BRAWL IN CELL BLOCK 99 with director S.Craig Zahler returning with Vince Vaughn and Udo Kier in person, while closing night honors are bestowed upon Yorgos Lanthimos’ ferociously-twisted follow-up to THE LOBSTER, THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER. Other hotly-anticipated titles making their debuts include the World Premiere of Justin MacGregor’s BEST F(R)IENDS with Tommy Wiseau and Greg Sestero reunited and in person, Joe Lynch’s blissfully violent MAYHEM, and, courtesy of Amazon Prime Video, a very special theatrical premiere of JEAN-CLAUDE VAN JOHNSON with the Muscles from Brussels himself, Jean-Claude Van Damme, in person with the show’s cast and creators.
“While the two worst manbaby haircuts on the planet prepared for nuclear destruction, we prepped cinematic armageddon,” said Beyond Fest Co-Founder, Christian Parkes. “We’re immigrants and we saw DR. STRANGELOVE – we know how this ends – but at least we get to watch some great films with our heroes and friends and go out with a real bang.”
The most beloved genre films are highlighted with a series of special event screenings throughout the festival. Arnold Schwarzenegger takes center stage for an explosive 30th anniversary one-two punch of PREDATOR and THE RUNNING MAN. The Master, Dario Argento, will be in attendance to celebrate the 40th anniversary of SUSPIRIA with screenings of Synapse Film’s 4K restoration AND the recently unearthed 35mm print. ‘Car Chases, Collisions & Conversation: An Evening with Edgar Wright and Walter Hill’ covers four decades of filmmaking and the interrelated nature of the pulsating smash BABY DRIVER and the seminal THE DRIVER in one epic night. Musical maestro, Paul Williams, will share stories from behind the mask of PHANTOM OF THE PARADISE. Mick Garris and Masters of Horror preside over a reverential tribute to two of the greats – George A. Romero and Tobe Hooper – with a double bill featuring the West Coast premiere of MOMA and FIlm Foundation’s NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD 4K digital restoration and TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE. And the theatrical premiere of NAPOLEON DYNAMITE BOOTLEG EDITION pairs a totally gonzo WTF double bill with HOWARD THE DUCK on 70mm with Lea Thompson in person.
Beyond Fest welcomes the return of genre streaming platform Shudder as its co-presenting sponsor, a partnership that provides 14 screenings (11 West Coast premieres) absolutely free to film fans. Every night, the 90-seat ‘Shudder Theatre’ will feature a brand new film selected from across the world including Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s triumphant return BEFORE WE VANISH, home invasion thrill ride BETTER WATCH OUT, the critically acclaimed Canadian zombie shocker LES AFFAMES (THE HUNGRY), Marc Meyers’ searing portrait of a serial-killer-in-the-making, MY FRIEND DAHMER, Alexandre O. Phillippe’s revelatory PSYCHO shower scene doc 78/52, and Ted Geoghegan’s sophomore scalper, MOHAWK.
For Cinematic Void’s sidebar they have enlisted the help of like minds as they venture further into the unknown with a series of special screenings. Author and academic Kier La Janisse will be present for Jean Rollin’s THE GRAPES OF DEATH and the release of the book, Lost Girls: The Phantasmagorical Cinema of Jean Rollin which she is publishing. Friday Night Frights are co-presenting the west coast premiere of the 4K restoration of the thoroughly bugnuts RAWHEAD REX and the Death Waltz Records record release of HELLRAISER on 35mm. And filmmakers Amy Holden Jones and Deborah Brock will be present for a double bill of anniversary screenings of their films SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE and SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE II.
Tickets go on sale now See below for the full lineup of Beyond Fest 2017.
EGYPTIAN THEATRE
BABY DRIVER
Director: Edgar Wright
Country: USA
Runtime: 102 min.
Year: 2017
GUESTS: Edgar Wright & Walter Hill in Person
BAD BLACK (free screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Isaac Nawibana
Country: Uganda
Runtime: 60 minutes / Year: 2016
BATMAN: MASK OF THE PHANTASM
Directors: Bruce Timm, Eric Radomski
Country: USA
Runtime: 76 min.
Year: 1993
GUESTS: Andrea Romano plus voice actors TBA in Person
EGYPTIAN THEATRE- Continued
BEST F(R)IENDS
World Premiere
Director: Justin MacGregor
Country: USA
Runtime: 95 min.
Year: 2017
GUESTS: Tommy Wiseau, Greg Sestero and Justin Macgregor in Person
BRAWL IN CELL BLOCK 99
West Coast Premiere
Director: S. Craig Zahler
Country: USA
Runtime: 132 min.
Year: 2017
GUESTS: S. Craig Zahler, Vince Vaughn and Udo Kier in Person
DOUBLE IMPACT
Director: Sheldon Lettich
Country: USA
Runtime: 110 min.
Year: 1991 / 35mm
GUEST: Jean-Claude Van Damme and Sheldon Lettich in Person
THE DRIVER
Director: Walter Hill
Country: USA
Runtime: 90 min.
Year: 1978 / 35mm
GUESTS: Edgar Wright & Walter Hill in Person
HELLRAISER
Co-presented with Death Waltz Records + Friday Night Frights
Director: Clive Barker
Country: USA
Runtime: 94 min.
Year: 1987 / 35mm
ICHI THE KILLER – Digital Restoration
West Coast Premiere
Director: Takashi Miike
Country: Japan
Runtime: 129 min.
Year: 2001
EGYPTIAN THEATRE- Continued
HOWARD THE DUCK – 70mm
Director: Willard Huyck
Country: USA
Runtime: 110 min.
Year: 1986
GUESTS: Lea Thompson in Person
JEAN-CLAUDE VAN JOHNSON – Episodes 1 & 2
Presented by Amazon
World Premiere
Director: Peter Atencio
Country: USA
Runtime: 60 min.
Year: 2016
GUESTS: Jean-Claude Van Damme, Peter Atencio, Dave Callaham, Kat Foster, Moises Arias.
THE KILLING OF A SACRED DEER
West Coast Premiere
Director: Yorgos Lanthimos
Country: UK, Ireland
Runtime: 109 min.
Year: 2017
MAYHEM
West Coast Premiere
Director: Joe Lynch
Country: USA
Runtime: 86 min.
Year: 2017
GUESTS: Joe Lynch and cast in person
NAPOLEON DYNAMITE – THE BOOTLEGGED EDITION
Theatrical Premiere
Director: Jared Hess
Country: USA
Runtime: 96 min.
Year: 2004
GUESTS: Cast and crew in person
NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD – 4K Restoration
West Coast Premiere
Director: George A. Romero
Country: USA
Runtime: 96 min.
Year: 1968
GUESTS: Mick Garris & Masters of Horror in Person
EGYPTIAN THEATRE- Continued
OPERA (aka TERROR AT THE OPERA)
Director: Dario Argento
Country: Italy
Runtime: 100 min.
Year: 1987
GUESTS: Dario Argento in Person
PHANTOM OF THE PARADISE
Co presented with Creature Features
Director: Brian De Palma
Country: USA
Runtime: 92 min.
Year: 1974
GUESTS: Paul Williams in Person
PREDATOR
Director: John McTiernan
Country: USA
Runtime: 107 min.
Year: 1987 / 35mm
GUESTS: Arnold Schwarzenegger in Person
RAWHEAD REX 4K Restoration
Co presented with Cinematic Void and Friday Night Frights
West Coast Premiere
Director: George Pavlou
Country: USA
Runtime: 89 min.
Year: 1986
THE ROOM
Director: Tommy Wiseau
Country: USA
Runtime: 99 min.
Year: 2003
GUESTS: Tommy Wiseau, Greg Sestero and Guests in Person
THE RUNNING MAN
Director: Paul Michael Glaser
Country: USA
Runtime: 101 min.
Year: 1987 / 35mm
GUESTS: Arnold Schwarzenegger in Person
EGYPTIAN THEATRE- Continued
SUSPIRIA – 4K Restoration
LA Premiere
Director: Dario Argento
Country: Italy
Runtime: 100 min.
Year: 1977
GUESTS: Dario Argento, Udo Kier, Barbara Magnolfi in Person
SUSPIRIA – 35mm Italian Cut
LA Premiere
Director: Dario Argento
Country: Italy
Runtime: 98 min.
Year: 1977
GUESTS: Dario Argento and Barbara Magnolfi in Person
THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE
Director: Tobe Hooper
Country: USA
Runtime: 83 min.
Year: 1974
35mm
GUESTS: Mick Garris & Masters of Horror in Person
SHUDDER THEATRE
78/52 (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Alexandre O. Philippe
Country: USA
Runtime: 91 min.
Year: 2017
BEFORE WE VANISH (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Kiyoshi Kurosawa
Country: Japan
Runtime: 129 min.
Year: 2017
BETTER WATCH OUT (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Chris Peckover
Country: Australia, USA
Runtime: 85 min.
Year: 2016
SHUDDER THEATRE – Continued
COLD HELL (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Stefan Ruzowitzky
Country: Austria
Runtime: 92 min.
Year: 2017
THE GRAPES OF DEATH AKA Les Raisins de La Mort (Free Screening)
Director: Jean Rollin
Country: France
Runtime: 90 min.
Year: 1978
HAUNTERS: THE ART OF THE SCARE (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Jon Schnitzer
Country: USA
Runtime: 88 min.
Year: 2017
JAILBREAK (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Jimmy Henderson
Country: Cambodia
Runtime: 92 min.
Year: 2017
LES AFFAMES (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Robin Aubert
Country: Canada
Runtime: 100 min.
Year: 2017
MOHAWK (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Ted Geoghegan
Country: USA
Runtime: 91 min.
Year: 2017
MY FRIEND DAHMER (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Marc Meyers
Country: USA
Runtime: 107 min.
Year: 2017
SHUDDER THEATRE – Continued
REVENGE (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Coralie Fargeat
Country: France
Runtime: 108 min
Year: 2017
SEQUENCE BREAK (Free Screening)
West Coast Premiere
Director: Graham Skipper
Country: USA
Runtime: 108 min
Year: 2017
GUESTS: Graham Skipper, Cast and Crew in Person
THE SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE (Free Screening)
Co-presented by Etheria and Cinematic Void
Director: Amy Holden Jones
Country: USA
Runtime: 77 min.
Year: 1982
GUESTS: Amy Holden Jones in Person
Double Feature with SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE II
THE SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE II
Co-presented by Etheria and Cinematic Void
Director: Deborah Brock
Country: USA
Runtime: 77 min.
Year: 1987
GUESTS: Deborah Brock in Person
Double Feature with SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE
Netflix’s Black and White Spoon is a Korean culinary competition series that seamlessly blends artistry, culture, and high-stakes drama into an unforgettable viewing experience. From its sleek production values to its deeply emotional storytelling, this show offers more than just tantalizing dishes—it serves a heartfelt exploration of culinary passion and perseverance.
The series pits contestants against each other in a dual-themed format where they must create dishes inspired by opposing concepts—light versus dark, sweet versus savory, or tradition versus innovation. This premise challenges the chefs’ creativity while providing viewers with visually stunning plates and fascinating backstories about Korean cuisine and its global influences.
The judges are a mix of culinary experts, celebrity chefs, and cultural critics, each bringing a unique perspective. Their feedback is sharp, insightful, and, at times, surprisingly emotional, further heightening the tension.
What sets Black and White Spoon apart is its emphasis on storytelling through food. Each episode dives deep into Korean culinary heritage, intertwining it with personal anecdotes from the contestants. Dishes are not merely judged on technical precision but also on the emotional resonance they evoke. For instance, a simple kimchi stew becomes a tribute to family ties, while a modern take on bibimbap showcases the fusion of tradition and innovation.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Every shot of sizzling grills, delicately plated meals, and reactions from the judges feels like an art piece. The pacing, however, can sometimes feel uneven. While the personal stories add emotional weight, they occasionally overshadow the cooking itself, leaving food enthusiasts craving more behind-the-scenes action in the kitchen.
Black and White Spoon is an inspiring and visually rich series that celebrates the art of cooking and the complexities of Korean cuisine. Its emotional depth and cultural insight make it a standout in the crowded genre of food competition shows, though slightly better pacing could elevate it further.
This is a must-watch for foodies, fans of Korean culture, and anyone who loves the blend of artistry and competition in culinary storytelling.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Thanksgiving may not have the sheer volume of movies as Christmas, but it’s no less special when it comes to heartwarming, funny, and even chaotic films that capture the holiday spirit. Here’s a ranked list of the top Thanksgiving movies you should add to your holiday viewing tradition.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Why Watch: The definitive Thanksgiving movie, John Hughes’ comedy about an unlikely duo (Steve Martin and John Candy) trying to make it home for Thanksgiving is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Why Watch: This animated classic reminds us of the simple joys of friendship and togetherness, all with Snoopy’s iconic charm. Perfect for family viewing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
The Blind Side (2009)
Why Watch: A feel-good drama about family, generosity, and second chances, this Sandra Bullock-led film captures the spirit of Thanksgiving through its heartwarming true story.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Pieces of April (2003)
Why Watch: A raw and quirky indie film starring Katie Holmes as a black sheep daughter trying to host Thanksgiving for her estranged family. It’s funny, awkward, and touching in equal measure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Why Watch: Directed by Jodie Foster, this chaotic comedy-drama starring Holly Hunter captures the ups and downs of a family Thanksgiving in all its messy glory.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Addams Family Values (1993)
Why Watch: The hilarious Thanksgiving play sequence alone earns this gothic comedy a spot on the list. The Addams family’s twisted charm is perfect for holiday laughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Dutch (1991)
Why Watch: This underrated road-trip comedy follows Ed O’Neill as a man escorting his girlfriend’s bratty son home for Thanksgiving, delivering laughs and heartfelt moments.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Why Watch: Though more closely associated with Christmas, this classic opens during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and celebrates holiday magic and kindness.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Why Watch: Al Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance anchors this drama about loyalty and redemption, set against a backdrop of Thanksgiving break.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Tower Heist (2011)
- Why Watch: A lighthearted heist comedy featuring Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller, set during the Thanksgiving season. It’s not deep, but it’s a fun, entertaining watch.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Honorable Mentions
The Ice Storm (1997): A dark Thanksgiving drama for those who prefer serious fare.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986): Thanksgiving frames this Woody Allen classic about family dynamics.
With this lineup, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your Thanksgiving movie marathon as memorable as the feast itself!
directed by Prashanth Neel, brings a bold and gritty spectacle to the big screen, marking a triumphant return for Prabhas in an action-heavy role. Known for his high-energy, raw style (seen in KGF), Neel continues his signature approach here, blending intense action scenes with grandiose settings reminiscent of epic sagas like Game of Thrones. The film revolves around Deva (Prabhas), a powerful yet calm figure with a complex past, and his involvement in a politically charged power struggle with Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Varadha. This layered storyline introduces us to the fictitious city of Khansar, where betrayals and power dynamics keep viewers on edge.
Critics generally appreciate Prabhas’s magnetic performance, noting that he captures the larger-than-life heroism he’s celebrated for since Baahubali. His portrayal, paired with intense fight choreography, keeps the audience engaged, particularly during standout sequences that elevate the film’s dramatic intensity. Prithviraj’s character as Deva’s friend adds an intriguing dynamic, though Shruti Haasan’s role feels underused. While fans of action-packed cinema and Prabhas’s iconic style will enjoy the exhilarating visuals and powerful cinematography, some critics feel the plot loses momentum in the second half, with multiple subplots that dilute its emotional depth. The story is intentionally left open-ended, setting the stage for Salaar: Part 2.
Overall, Salaar is an ambitious action film that will satisfy fans of Prabhas and high-octane spectacles. However, those seeking a tight narrative or deep emotional connections might find it lacking. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars—a solid experience for action enthusiasts, with room for a more focused storyline in its sequel.
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