The Black Dahlia Haunting

I had the good fortune of attending the ShockFest Film Festival on Nov 16, 2012 and watched the new film The Black Dahlia Haunting. I enjoy a good scare, and usually settle in at night with a good horror movie although I also can get absorbed when watching a supernatural thriller. I also happen to enjoy retrospective accounts of notable infamous events. Imagine my surprise to see all three delivered simultaneously with confidence by the film's writer and director, Brandon Slagle. In less capable hands the script could have become convoluted but Slagle helmed the project successfully.

Since I have been a paranormal researcher for many years, I was curious to see how that aspect of the story would be handled. One of the film's stars, Britt Griffith, is an actual paranormal investigator and has no doubt seen how a haunting can affect those who live with discarnate personalities. I have known Britt for several years, and was curious to see his portrayal of Dr. Owen, one of the key characters in the movie. His pivotal role required a range that any performer would see as a challenge and he rose to the occasion.

In fact, each of the cast members did admirable jobs and I could not help but notice that as the movie neared it's climax, some in the audience began to gasp and some people seemed frozen in their seats. The movie has a story that at times moved some people to tears, and prompted others to cover their eyes. There are some plot twist I didn't see coming, and some scenes could be seared into your memory. Alexis Iacono's performance as Elizabeth Short reminds us that at the center of ghost story is an unforgettable spirit.

I had the great pleasure of meeting some of the cast members before seeing the film's premiere a short while ago. While the temptation is there to say nice things because of that, I find there's no need, as I walked away with nice things to say anyway, and false compliments do no one any favors. What may draw many to the movie, is the acting debut of Britt Griffith. If you recognize that name, it's because he is a regular in the SyFy Networks television hit "Ghost Hunters". I'm proud to report he did an amazing job, not awkward or over-rehearsed or anything like that. He's a natural, and his Character really pulls you in. The Female Lead, Devanny Pinn, also stunning, goes through changes in the film that, while subtle, have actions that speak louder than words, and ultimately employs some empathy for her Character. It's hard to speak about the plot of the film without giving too much away, and the viewer should go see this film without expectation, for the ultimate experience. Either way, the viewer SHOULD go see the film. Best thing about this film is its Direction. Brandon Slagle gives us a brilliant re-imagining of occurrences regarding the infamous Elizabeth Short murder in 1940's Los Angeles, aka the Black Dahlia, and how consequences still permeate through current times. Some of the understated images, and Character interpretation speak loudly. This film is graceful, elegant, dark, and stays with you long after viewing. It is truly a diamond-in-the-rough, and sets what should be a new tone for Horror. Definitely worth seeing, but you might want to keep the kids away. A 9 of 10 from me.

This movie just did zero for my taste. I love mysteries having to do with true crimes. And as another bonus, it happened in the 1940's, and it went unsolved. The film could not get my interest. It was nasty acting, low budget, poor sound, corny script. Sorry, not worth my time.

Worst movie i have ever seen. Only finished watching it to see if it would ever redeem itself. Sadly, the movie never improved. I never write reviews but was so annoyed this movie actually made it this far that i was compelled to do everything i can to help others avoid wasting their time and money on this movie. The best part of this movie is the DVD art on the case. As for the worst part, i cannot narrow that down so i will list them and why i feel that way: Audio quality is intentionally poor, doesn't create any effect other than raising the volume. Dialogue is non existent. I could have written this script in minutes and it would have been less clichéd. Acting is atrocious. Not just the lead actress but everyone. Finally the camera shots and angles and focus are just annoying. It just seems like the kind of movie wanna be indie rock kids say no one else gets cause its sooooo good,then they grow up and realize it sucks when they have kids of their own and their kids make an equally excruciating film in their intro to cinematography class for university of phoenix online. Sorry for the rant, just trust me this movie isn't so bad it comical like sharknado. Its so bad u write ur first review ever just so no one else has to experience cliché after cliché and stereotypical independent film must haves. Anyone that writes a good review is lying or takes offense because they are an equally untalented artist or are friends with someone involved with this travesty.

I was lost in the beginning. It was too slow getting to the main part of the story. Amazing lead actress. Not a lot of gore so for those of you that have a sensitive stomach you'll make it through to the end. A lot of dark scenes in this story. But a good ghost story shouldn't be all rainbows and unicorns. I never did see The Black Dahlia movie so I can't really compare or understand completely the plot. All I know is be afraid of ghosts because they will find a way to hurt you. Devanny made a great man-hating bitch. The ending was a bit predictable. Didn't keep me guessing. I'd consider this mild violence, although it did allow the audience to use their imagination on exactly what was being done. No overkill on the blood whatsoever. Horror isn't always just blood baths and body parts.