Fantasia International Film Festival’s 2024 Edition Offers Another Bevy of Genre Goodness

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As a hardcore gamer and avid movie buff, I can’t contain my excitement for this year’s Fantasia International Film Festival! With its unique blend of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and action movies from around the world, there’s no better place to be for genre fans like me. Kicking off on July 18 and running through August 4 in Montreal, this is one event I circle on my calendar every year.

In my view, one of the top film festivals globally, the Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal, begins anew this weekend for a fortnight-long celebration of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, action, and more genre films than you can imagine. This year’s event features both beloved classics and brand-new premieres. Mark your calendars: It runs from July 18 to August 4. For those with a passion for international genre cinema, this is not an event to be missed.

In this year’s film lineup, you’ll find several captivating and thought-provoking movies that are sure to excite fans. Here are my top five picks that I can’t wait to watch!

The Old Man and the Demon Sword

To begin with, there’s a movie referred to as the intriguing fusion of “Evil Dead” and “Kamen Rider.” Given my fondness for both these franchises, this description immediately captures my attention. In a secluded Portuguese village nestled in the mountains called Pé da Serra, a monk carrying a sinister sword makes an appearance. It isn’t long before the intoxicated local resident António da Luz (portraying himself) obtains the enchanted weapon. As they join forces, the drunkard and the demonic sword must collaborate to combat the approaching wickedness.

This Portuguese film pays an affectionate tribute to American B-movies with a budget, blending in local folklore and legends for added enjoyment.

Shelby Oaks

In her first attempt at directing a full-length film, YouTube sensation Chris Stuckmann’s production, titled “Shelby Oaks,” delves into the enigma surrounding the vanishing act of a well-known paranormal investigation team. The group, led by Riley Brennan and her three colleagues, went missing near the abandoned town of Shelby Oaks, Ohio in 2008. Over the years, various theories have emerged, but none have been as persistent in their pursuit of uncovering the truth as Riley’s sister, Mia (portrayed by Camille Sullivan). In an effort to find closure, Mia has consented to share Riley’s story with a documentary crew, consisting of Emily Bennett and Rob Grant.

Following a highly successful Kickstarter funding round and a two-year long production process, Stuckmann’s movie is now set to debut at the Fantasia film festival, poised to frighten audiences beyond belief.

The Beast Within

Kit Harington, known for his role in “Game of Thrones,” switches from wielding a sword to handling an ax (alongside some claws and fangs) in this take on the werewolf tale. In this production, Harington portrays a father grappling with a concealed truth. His late-night absences and sudden mood swings leave his sickly daughter, Caoilinn Springall, puzzled. Where does her dad disappear to? Why does his demeanor shift so abruptly? And what unleashes the monstrous creature that haunts the countryside community?

As a gamer, I’d say: In The Beast Within, Fantasia brings us deep into a childlike wonderland, where the strange and beautiful coexist. This game immerses you in a realm where a terrifying beast roams freely under the light of a full moon.

You had me at “Jon Snow, Lycanthrope.”

Witchboard

Chuck Russell, known for directing one of my favorite horror films from 1988, which is a remake of “The Blob,” is now working on the remake of an notorious “Video Nasty” from the ’80s. A couple stumbles upon an ancient “pendulum board” believed to be worth money as an antique. However, they soon discover that it has peculiar powers assisting them in mysterious ways. Could there be some supernatural occurrences at play? Well, yes, this is a horror movie after all.

In a fresh twist on the classic horror theme, this production retains its grisly scenes and dark, contemporary atmosphere, primarily due to its backdrop of New Orleans and additional filming sites in Montreal. It’s also exciting to witness director Chuck Russell returning to the horror genre once more.

Brush of the God

Keizo Murase is a highly respected effects artist who has created creatures and suits for kaiju and tokusatsu productions since the late 1950s. His work can be seen in popular titles like Ultraman, Godzilla, Kamen Rider, Gamera, and Daimajin. It’s amazing that after 70 years in this field, Murase made his directorial debut at the impressive age of 88.

A teenage boy, whose grandfather was a renowned model maker for monster movies, now holds the responsibility of using an enchanted paintbrush to protect the world from a menacing dragon with multiple heads. This intriguing plotline is hard not to be captivated by! The magical world depicted in Brush of the God, filled with the spectacular special effects Murase contributed to, pays tribute to both art and self-expression while delivering an enthralling monster adventure.

In the upcoming days, check out TopMob.com for reviews on Fantasia. For additional details about Fantasia and ticket purchases if you’re in Montreal, visit their website. Enjoy the movies!

I’m thrilled to share that Kyle Anderson holds a significant role as the Senior Editor at TopMob. He’s not just sitting behind a desk, but he also brings his passion for pop culture to life through his weekly podcast, Laser Focus. With each episode, Kyle invites listeners on a captivating journey as they delve deep into the intricacies of films and TV shows.

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2024-07-18 16:33