Unlike my ScreenAnarchy cohorts Todd Brown and Kurt
Halfyard, I am not as skilled in writing quick reviews of festival
fare. My gig is more to secure interviews, which by their very format
afford me the time to secure, research, conduct and transcribe my work
within a prolonged period of time. I break from my usual routine,
however, to state that Jesse T. Cook's Monster Brawl, which has
just seen its world premiere at Fantasia, is--in my opinion--the
undisputed smackdown hit of the festival, if not--indeed--this year's
bumper crop of comedy horror.
Its simple premise of melding iconic horror with
Wrestlemania broadcasting is achieved through an abiding respect and
love for both genres, and with a consummate ensemble of
actors--including narration by Lance Henriksen, and hilarious turns by
Dave Foley and Art Hindle as sportscasters--coupled with remarkable
make-up effects by the Gore Brothers, Monster Brawl will appeal to
audiences of all ages and is a shining testament that we love our
monsters, yes we do, especially when they take each other on. This is a
ringside ticket you will not want to miss!
- Michael Guillén
- Michael Guillén