The Black Dahlia Haunting (2012)

The Black Dahlia Haunting is no big budget movie, that was obvious from the start, but that is precisely why you should see it. Filmmakers who want, no need, to create find a way with like minded people who will stop at nothing to make movies. The outcome here is amazing and yet simplistic, which is very pleasing to the eye. Mission accomplished. This of is a film chocked full of talent and revenge in many incarnations. It was satisfying from the start although the build up is what you want, right? I had no idea what to expect when I sat down to watch it and I'm glad I didn't because I did not see the plot before it unfolded. This is one hard task to accomplish since so many movies these days are overrun with foreshadowing and needless clues. I enjoyed the acting particularly as these actors bought in to their roles with heart and soul. The directing prowess of Brandon Slagle "Malcolm" brought a micro budget film to life or death in this case with the precision of a surgeon. Nothing was wasted in his efforts. I, like you, am fully fascinated with the mystery surrounding Elizabeth Short and this film helped quench my thirst in the horror movie that could. Bravo!

I saw the The Black Dahlia Haunting on both days of the LoneStar ComicCon in Schertz,Texas. It was so intriguing that I attended both screenings. The director was effective at setting an atmosphere that was cohesive with the overall theme of the movie. He did a good job portraying the spirits to be haunting the people rather than haunting the buildings. Unlike most modern horror movies, this one employs a tasteful use of gore and smooth transitions, instead of the usual jump-cut scare tactics.Devanny Pinn, a relative newcomer, did well playing a character and the spirit conversing with the spirit possessing her, no easy task. Most fascinating, however, were Alexis Iacono and Cleave A. Hall. Their scenes together were the most intense of the movie. The chemistry between them was riveting.Overall, The Black Dahlia haunting is an enjoyable movie. Watching it two days in a row proved it to have high replay value. This film is quite impressive especially considering the filmmaker's limited budget and shooting schedule.

I had the opportunity to preview the movie at Phenomenology 105 in Gettysburg PA. The Britt Griffith I met was friendly, witty and very personable not like the Britt Griffith in the movie! He was very dark in this role. I found myself very drawn into the movie. The references to the time period were very accurate and the actress playing Norma Jean was very realistic in her voice and actions. I loved this version of the murder. It highlighted how the actors were passionate about the parts they had in the film. It gave me the chills!!!! This is a dark and scary movie, but not like the normal horror genre. I have been telling all of my friends about it. This is a film that will be in my personal library!

First and foremost, if you have the opportunity to see this film, do so! I had the pleasure of seeing a screening of the film in Sacramento, CA and I think I've told everyone I have seen about it. I'm not a fan of most horror, mainly because it's all pretty much been done before. I like blood, just not senseless blood and guts. I like the supernatural, if it's done right. With that being said, I really enjoyed this film. It brought both of these elements together in a perfect blend, blood and the supernatural. If you are going in expecting the same old crime drama/horror movie, think again. It was fresh, dark and had some bloody scenes, but nothing too gory. However, this film is probably not for the squeamish. It is great to see such a change from the remakes that are out there now. I also dislike when I go into a suspenseful movie that is full of "twists", but you know how it's going to end in the first five minutes. That is not the case with The Black Dahlia Haunting, it kept me guessing all the way to the end. Devanny Pinn had a challenging roll, but she was able to make you feel for her character. As another reviewer wrote, "Britt Griffith made my skin crawl", and that he did. The cast and director, Brandon Slagle gave depth and life to the characters. I look forward to their next project!