"Shelby Oaks" disappoints as a blend of found footage and traditional filmmaking, leading to a jarring experience. While it steals attention due to hype, the characters lack depth, and the plot raises more questions than it answers. Genuine scares exist, but the storyline is familiar, failing to innovate or engage.
Author: Chris Ringler
I Used AI to Make Fake Posters for Fake Movies…And It Was Mostly Fun
The author expresses discomfort with the increasing reliance on AI in creative fields, viewing it as a forced effort by corporations. While acknowledging AI's long history, they emphasize that it should assist, not replace, human creativity. Their own playful experimentation with AI tools showcases its potential without overshadowing human involvement.
Found Footage Review: “Ghosts of Hiroshima”
"Ghosts of Hiroshima" is an intimate found footage horror film featuring a young man investigating his inheritance in Japan. As he confronts terrifying revelations about his family’s connection to Hiroshima, the film builds tension through unseen spirits. While it offers genuine scares, issues with pacing and an unsatisfying ending detract from its overall impact.
Read an Excerpt from”The Fallen God of Opal Bay”
"The Fallen God of Opal Bay" is a 2025 novel about a young outcast desperate to be invisible in a place that is unseen by most. It started with the two dead girls lying at the bottom of an abandoned construction project, but they weren't the last bodies she would find. And soon, even Death itself would find her, but death is far from the most dangerous thing in Opal Bay, as she is about to find out.
The Spooky Chris Podcast: A Conversation with Mark Benson
“Things We Found” Excerpt
"Things We Found" is a new book of short stories inspired by found footage horror, exploring haunting echoes from the darkness. One excerpt, titled "Stickman," follows a father and son driving home, where the son excitedly points out a mysterious figure in the trees, hinting at something unsettling just beyond their perception.
Found Footage Movie Review: “Raw File”
The review discusses "Raw File," a found-footage film that features a compelling mystery surrounding a suspicious suicide. While it is well-made with quality production values and strong acting, the narrative struggles with cohesion and logical consistency, ultimately impacting overall satisfaction. The reviewer rates it 2 out of 5.
Book Spotlight: Things We Found
The author expresses a profound love for campfire tales and found footage stories, emphasizing their immersive horror experience. In "Things We Found," a collection of dark and visceral tales, protagonists face terrifying discoveries in an unsettling world. The collection, released in Kindle and paperback, marks the author's return to short stories after several years.
Movie Review: Bonekeeper
The post reviews the monster movie BONEKEEPER, which features a gruesome creature but ultimately fails to deliver a strong narrative. Despite some effective horror elements and ambition, issues like poor writing and illogical character actions detract from the experience. While monster fans may find interest, the film is largely forgettable.
Movie Review: Scream 7
The review of "Scream 7" acknowledges its enjoyable elements and strong performances but highlights the need for the franchise to evolve beyond its legacy characters. Critics argue that revisiting Sydney Prescott's story risks becoming repetitive and lacks fresh perspectives. Overall, while the film is well-crafted, it signals a desire for radical changes within the series.
The Spooky Chris Podcast: A Conversation with Arts Educator Emily Hudson
Join arts educator Emily Hudson for a compelling discussion about art and its impact. Based in Flint, she shares her experiences as an artist and teacher, emphasizing the importance of inspiring children. The conversation highlights how creating food for loved ones can be seen as an art form. Don't miss it!
The Spooky Chris Podcast: CONcerned – It’s Time to Save Conventions
Movie Review: “Dead Lover”
DEAD LOVER is a quirky, low-budget film that creatively embraces its limitations while telling a love story about a lonely gravedigger. With its unique "Stink-O-Vision" aspect and theatrical direction, it offers an over-the-top viewing experience. While not for everyone, its charm and distinctiveness may attract fans of indie and underground cinema.






