jnation5511 Reviews

Count Yorga, Vampire (1970)

Blast From the Past--The Seventies Rock!

[7/10 · 14 February 2005]

I saw this one on a movie channel and loved it. I haven't seen it for 30+ years. Robert Quarry is magnificent as a "matinee idol" vampire, in the best Lugosi tradition. Someone should post a short biography of this often-overlooked actor. A little heavy-handed in parts, but it's sure sexy and scary. The supporting actors are very good, especially a young Michael Murphy. You might also want to view Dr. Phibes Rises Again with Quarry and Vincent Price going toe-to-toe. See this one if you like seventies style or good low-budget horror.

Rated PG-13 (kitty munching; lewd activities in Volkswagen Bus and cleavage isn't quite the word).

Hide and Seek (2005)

Low Temperature De Niro

[6/10 · 14 February 2005]

De Niro, though he gives a nice performance, is not exactly in overdrive, which probably explains why this film is released in February instead of the blockbuster periods. It is a nicely-cast and shot film, and De Niro avoids any temptation to munch scenery. The film has a Sixth Sense-type surprise, but just doesn't have the "oomph" of that movie. The scenes involving the neighbors are confusing and perhaps there was sub-plot that got cut. You might also say that the ending was telegraphed to some degree. I wouldn't go if you dislike violence against women (or cats). Won't be at the top of De Niro's resume.

Rated R (dead kitty; gratuitous shower curtains and sinister facial expressions).