View Full Version : Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon
Sketch Sanchez
07-15-2007, 07:34 AM
Very minor spoilers here
I heard about this film through the geekscape.net podcast, director Scott Glosserman was co-hosting the show that week and they both talked about this film and it really piqued my interest.
Needless tosay, I went out and bought the DVD and really enjoyed it. I really dug the fact that, in this world, Freddy, Jason, and Micheal are REAL. Usually, in most slashers, they're just "those guys in the movies" but having them as real monsters who terrorize their respective towns was a really nice touch and a unique twist.
At first I was getting skeptical about the documentary crew following this guy around, but it all pays off in the end very niceley and I think this is a must see for any slasher fan.
Wheatjedi
07-15-2007, 07:37 AM
I'm really very curious about this film, but I just can't seem to bring myself to spend $20 to buy a film I've never seen. I know.... "Why don't you just rent it first?" None of the rental places I know of have it. :(
Sketch Sanchez
07-15-2007, 07:38 AM
I've been burned on that before so I know how you feel. I spent 26 bucks on this film called UNDEAD that people were raving about and I hated the shit out of it. I felt so ripped off.
Wheatjedi
07-15-2007, 07:42 AM
Exactly. I'll probably just wait until the price comes down a little bit.
Gringo Loco
07-15-2007, 08:16 AM
I called my local indie video store and both copies have been rented out since they got them. :( I also called my local Blockbuster but they were being lazy ass fookers who didn't want to check to see if they had it because they had too many customers. The fuckers.
I might end up buying it. I did not know that Jason, Freddy, and Michael etc. were real monsters. I think that adds an interesting twist. And lets face it, Horror in general relies on it's twists!
Sketch Sanchez
07-15-2007, 09:00 AM
It's really awesome, the movie actually opens with a reporter giving a monologue about all three guys, showing a snow covered camp crystal lake (complete with sign,it's partially covered so you dont see all the words but you can tell it says "camp crystal lake"), the nightmare house, and haddonfield along with the Myers house whle she speaks about them.
She even tries to interview someone going into 1428 Elm Street about "their former neighber Fred Krue-" (the person slams the door before she finishes)
ADDED:
Oh and Robert ENglund is in this movie as "the ahab", basically he's Leslies Doctor Loomis.
Titan
07-15-2007, 06:46 PM
I just bought this one recently but haven't had a chance to watch it. When I do get a chance I'll post my thoughts on it.
Toejam
07-15-2007, 08:04 PM
It's really awesome, the movie actually opens with a reporter giving a monologue about all three guys, showing a snow covered camp crystal lake (complete with sign,it's partially covered so you dont see all the words but you can tell it says "camp crystal lake"), the nightmare house, and haddonfield along with the Myers house whle she speaks about them.
She even tries to interview someone going into 1428 Elm Street about "their former neighber Fred Krue-" (the person slams the door before she finishes)
That someone is Kane Hodder,
he gives her a dirty look before ducking into the house (I got a good chuckle out of it.)
I also liked when they showed Leslie working out to improve his stamina, and him complaining about it.
Gringo Loco
07-16-2007, 09:34 PM
Well I rented this today, although I haven't seen it yet. I'll post back what I think of it in a few hours. I hope it's as good as everyone says it is.
I really like this movie, but I think it's very, very flawed. The parts of the film that are in the documentary style are extremely well done. They're funny, and smart, and just really good. The movie completely falls apart for me though when it turns into a regular slasher film. Those scenes just don't work, and are so poorly done that it brings the movie down a bit.
Extra points for the brilliant use of the Talking Heads' Psycho Killer though
Gringo Loco
07-17-2007, 01:32 AM
So I just got done watching this and I have to say, I was disappointed. The movie started off fine until they mentioned the Michael, Freddy, and Jason bit one too many times and it seemed to go down hill from there. I felt they bit off of Scream a little too much for my taste, although I didn't mind that they bit off of Man Bites Dog, which I thought was a bad movie also, but that is neither here nor there. I guess I wasn't expecting so much a comedy as I was expecting a classic horror film. Maybe I got this one mixed up with Hatchet. I also felt Robert Englund could've had more screen time.
Overall I give the film a 7/10 only because it seemed like the filmmakers really put there heart into it and also they gave credit where credit was do. eg. Slasher films
Added:
I also liked the trailers before the movie started. Night of the Living Dorks looks funny with the exception of the guy's ball coming off. I thought that was TMI. I liked Hatchet as well although it fit the very definition of a teaser trailer.
Wheatjedi
07-17-2007, 02:44 AM
Thanks for the review. I think I'll definitely hold off on this until the price comes waaay down.
killingvector
07-17-2007, 04:30 AM
I've been burned on that before so I know how you feel. I spent 26 bucks on this film called UNDEAD that people were raving about and I hated the shit out of it. I felt so ripped off.
I share your pain.
Undead occupies a place in my heart as long as it stays buried in the attic.
Gringo Loco
07-17-2007, 12:38 PM
Undead occupies a place in my heart as long as it stays buried in the attic.
That's a very creepy sentence. :X
I thought that Leslie Vernon's mask was pretty good. It had the creepy, blank feel of jason and michael myers.
The Dream Master
08-16-2007, 03:19 AM
I watched this a couple days ago. It almost felt like watching another Scream movie, but it was just different enough to still be entertaining. I'll admit I loved the references to "Fred," "Mike," and "Jay," along with the Kane Hodder appearance . I don't think this is anything I'll be watching again anytime soon, but it was decent.
Oh, and Robert Englund should have been in the film a lot more. I almost felt like he was wasted because he was only in the movie for a couple of scenes, really.
I was a bit diappointed with the commentary, but whatever. I too agree that they should have utilized Englund a bit more because he was sort of the 'Loomis' in this film.
The Dream Master
08-16-2007, 03:31 AM
Yeah, he was Loomis right down to the attire and the beard.
The 5th Golden Girl
08-16-2007, 05:01 AM
I really liked it... full of horror movie references for die-hard fans of the slasher genre. The leads, I thought, were great, especially the guy playing Leslie Vernon. Plus, I'm a big fan of Robert Englund's non-Freddy roles (I mean, I love him as Freddy, but I like seeing him play other parts, too, especially when he gets to be a good guy).
The one problem I have is Kane Hodder's cameo, and the "a very special thanks to Kane Hodder" in the end credits. What the hell? I just don't get the fascination/love for Kane Hodder. He is not in the same league as Robert Englund (who has played Freddy for over 20 years) or even Gunnar Hansen (who played the original and best-loved Leatherface).
He played Jason in four films, three of which are in a constant triple threat over which one is the worst film in the "Friday the 13th" series (parts 8, 9, and 10). Kane Hodder does not equal Jason. I'm sorry, but there it is.
But I digress... "Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon" is a fun film which a lot of positive reviews. I, for one, am glad the film makes the switch from documentary-style to horror film for the last 30 minutes because I was afraid the documentary would continue which would have really threw me off because no one would stand by and let a person brutally murder a bunch of people for a documentary/news story. The film had to make the switch or it wouldn't have remained real.
The Dream Master
08-16-2007, 05:07 AM
Kane pwns Ken!!!1!
lolz.
Anyway, I agree about your final point, 5th. If the movie hadn't taken that turn, it would have been truly bizarre.
Another thing I really liked was the parody of Freudian psychobabble. That was particularly hilarious, along with this line: Paradise Lost? Found it!.
I think this film is very viable for a sequel.
But I digress... "Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon" is a fun film which a lot of positive reviews. I, for one, am glad the film makes the switch from documentary-style to horror film for the last 30 minutes because I was afraid the documentary would continue which would have really threw me off because no one would stand by and let a person brutally murder a bunch of people for a documentary/news story. The film had to make the switch or it wouldn't have remained real.
That's a very true statement, but I just wish that those scenes were done a little better. They look and feel sub-Sci Fi channel quality at best. They feel like a badly executed after thought to the brilliant hour that preceded them.
The 5th Golden Girl
08-16-2007, 05:32 AM
That might be true, too. Once it made the switch, I kind of zoned out. I saw what was going on, but I didn't really pay attention to the quality. I'll have to rewatch it. You may be right. I just meant I'm glad the switch was made for the reasons I stated... whether or not the quality was there remains to really be seen by me. I'll rewatch it later.
Melanie Jarvis
08-16-2007, 08:20 AM
I absolutely love this movie. I think a sequel would be superb.
Kane Lives
08-16-2007, 08:11 PM
I had heard a lot of mixed reviews on this movie, but I bought it anyway.
I have to say I liked it a lot. I was worried early on with all the talk of "Survivor girls" and other things like that, that it was in danger of being another Scream clone. But, it changed its focus somewhat and didn't dwell on those things.
I liked Robert's role in the film as a nod to Dr. Loomis, and the Kane cameo in front of the Elm Street house was funny I thought. I wanted to see a little more of Robert and more characterization of the teens, but I suppose the whole point of it was to stay with Leslie as much as possible.
The film was unique and had a few twists and turns. I found it to be really enjoyable. One of the aspects I liked the most about it was that it took place in a world where Freddy, Jason, and Michael Myers actually exist, and isn't about some psycho who admires their films.
I would recommend it.
Yeah I think it ws well-balanced in the sense that it took itself seriously, but not too seriously.
The film was unique and had a few twists and turns. I found it to be really enjoyable. One of the aspects I liked the most about it was that it took place in a world where Freddy, Jason, and Michael Myers actually exist, and isn't about some psycho who admires their films.
I would recommend it.
In the original script, Freddy, Jason, and Michael are actually in the movie and are friend with Leslie and Eugene.
I'm glad that didn't make it to the film..that would of just came off as silly and really would have compromised the integrity of the movie as a whole.
I agree completely. It would have taken it to a whole new level that it didn't need to be on.
I just watched this again and I think that there was some good acting here. Leslie's character was a little over acted and overbearing in a couple parts, but overall I thought they did a good job.
Kane Lives
08-17-2007, 09:39 PM
I'm glad that didn't make it to the film..that would of just came off as silly and really would have compromised the integrity of the movie as a whole.
I agree also. I like the references to the characters as they are in the film just fine.
I wonder how they could go about a sequel to this? Would it be documentary style??
Kane Lives
08-18-2007, 04:20 AM
Since the film was pretty unique, I started wondering the same thing as soon as Leslie sat up at the end of the credits.
I don't know how I'd feel about them using the documentary style again, since I feel it wouldn't be as special as the first film no matter how they did it. For that reason, I might would lean toward them moving away from the style of the first movie.
I'm not sure what they would do actually. Which makes me a little hesitant for them to try and do a Sequel. But, if they could find a new slant for it, I'd love to see Leslie back again.
I would be all for this as long as Englund returned.
Joshg
08-18-2007, 05:04 AM
It looks as if there has been a lot of positive feedback for this film. Due to that, I may check it out. Where's the harm in that?
Judging by some of the other movies I've seen you post positively about, I think you'll like this one. It's entertaining and smart.
Originally, the movie was going to end in a court room scene where Taylor was on trial for her involvement in Leslie's crimes (The security camera footage featured in the credits was to be used in that scene). Maybe they can go that route for a sequel. It could be a court room drama.
I wouldn't mind seeing something like that done as long as they could pull it off.
It'd be a breath of fresh air from the original at least.
I think it'd be good as long as they didn't try to cast a judge from one of those crappy daytime court shows.
That would be bad, but since this would be an accessory to murder case, I'd think it'd be a grand jury type of set up.
That would be bad, but since this would be an accessory to murder case, I'd think it'd be a grand jury type of set up.
yeah I know, I mean just as far as casting is concerned.
101ant101
08-21-2007, 06:59 PM
it was alright but not all that 6 to 7 out of 10 to me
Sure , it was no Bloody Murder, but it was however original;)
101ant101
08-22-2007, 12:04 PM
Sure , it was no Bloody Murder, but it was however original;)
ha. lol maybe the begining, but not the ending it was like any other slasher;)
MaDMaNMaRz
08-23-2007, 07:10 AM
I've heard alot of good things about this film. I'll probably check it out sometime.
'Behind The Mask' Writer Talks Possible Sequel Story
Source: BloodyGoodHorror
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Get more Behind the Mask: The Rise Of Leslie Vernon news
While talking with BloodyGoodHorror, Behind the Mask writer David J. Steive talked a bit about his idea for a sequel, should one come to pass. Says Steive, "I do have a framework in mind. It does involve what Leslie would do next. He's only just begun to execute (pun intended) his master plan on Glen Echo. This was his opening salvo in what he aspires to be a lifelong passion project. He's succeeded in the first phases, setting up his legend and pulling off The Boy's return. Now he'd want to cash in on that in the following years, to create a larger mythology. This was only the beginning, and he would only get better, bigger, more terrifying as he learned and pushed himself. I think there's a ton of material left to explore in that, and self-referential aspects of the genre left to showcase.". He also says that at this time, a sequel is not set in stone, but talks will occur as long as the DVD continues to sell. Check over to BGH for the rest of the interview. Personally I don't think a sequel is necessary, but I wouldn't be opposed to one either as long as all the principles returned.
http://www.bloody-disgusting.com/news/9716
I've been burned on that before so I know how you feel. I spent 26 bucks on this film called UNDEAD that people were raving about and I hated the shit out of it. I felt so ripped off.
No shit, man, that movie was absolutely awful. It had me up until roundabout the time the opening credits finished.
Anyhow, on-topic... I found Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon to be one of the best flicks I've seen in years. Sketch, I don't think you'd be disappointed if you blind-rented or blind-bought it.
Like I said, I'm all for a sequel as long as Englund returns.
girlychaos
08-27-2007, 05:16 AM
I haven't watched this one yet. But I heard great things about it....I'm certainly going to check it out asap.
Lance Lives
05-28-2008, 02:00 AM
Just recently got this. I saw the trailer on Evil Dead Ultimate Edition or some other dvd and went out and bought it 'cause I thought it looked cool. Well, I loved it, pretty much. I thought it was cool new take on the slasher movie and am glad to now own it. I'd be all for a sequel, and that possible outline sounds great.
sCabbOy
05-28-2008, 04:56 AM
A lot of my friends love this. Am I missing something? I really hated the movie... the movie seemed more like a satyr but was shot and acted like it was serious. I dunno, I just hated how it was done. It would have been much better as a dark comedy.
i am SAW
05-28-2008, 02:44 PM
A lot of my friends love this. Am I missing something? I really hated the movie.
just going off the posts i've read of yours in the past week, you seem to hate alot of movies. i've only noticed because the negative comments you've made were all about movies i thought were really good. since you asked, i'd say yes you are missing something. your friends sound like they have good taste though.
Lance Lives
05-28-2008, 06:14 PM
I personally took it as a black comedy. I didn't see TOO much seriousness.
ZPowers
05-29-2008, 09:21 AM
I didn't see this, but I hear it's very similar (though some people say inferior) to "Man Bites Dog" aka "It Happened in Your Neighborhood", a French film from 1992 about a camera crew that follows around a guy that basically kills people on a daily basis for almost any reason. I saw that a couple years ago, and it was a really great, black comedy with a capital BLACK (Here's the preview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oi5rmt-gucs ).
I think I might get Leslie Vernon sometime soon. I'm interested in seeing it.
Lance Lives
05-30-2008, 09:12 PM
That does sound similar, and I'd like to check it out, but was it as on the nose about the slasher aspect because that's what I found so funny about this flick.
ZPowers
05-30-2008, 10:05 PM
That does sound similar, and I'd like to check it out, but was it as on the nose about the slasher aspect because that's what I found so funny about this flick.
No, it's not a slasher send-off as much. That's one area where they seem fairly different. Though it is still really enjoyable.
Homicidal#9
05-30-2008, 11:23 PM
While i can see why someone would say it bares a resemblance to Man Bites Dog, I feel that it is a much darker film than Leslie Vernon. While watching Man Bites Dog, i felt really guilty and dirty whenever i laughed at something. I did not feel that way at all with Leslie Vernon. I did enjoy both films btw...
take care,
Tommy
Jigsaw
05-30-2008, 11:26 PM
I haven't seen Leslie Vernon yet, but I saw Man Bites Dog last week on IFC and thought it was decent. Pretty disturbing and gritty movie and pretty violent as well although I've seen much worse. The whole movie is more disturbing and gritty in nature rather than violent, although it certainly doesn't skimp on the violence, either. I've been wanting to see Leslie Vernon for a while and will rent it if I find it for rent next time I rent DVDs.
jah jah jason
05-31-2008, 04:39 AM
i enjoyed this film. I thought it was very clever. I was happy to see a thread. I was just about to start one..
Homicidal#9
05-31-2008, 05:05 AM
since this is somewhat related to the discussion i wanted to post a quick pic to something i am working on at the moment...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v471/Homicidal9/025-6.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v471/Homicidal9/046-1.jpg
face mask by the prop shop...everything else by me...deciding whether or not to make it a bust of a lifesize...
take care,
Tommy
That's looking pretty sweet dude.
TheShowstoppa
06-18-2008, 01:41 AM
I just saw this today on a friend's recommendation. I thought it was pheonominal. I enjoyed it because with me being out of the horror scene for way too long, I've become entirely too picky about EVERYTHING that has to do with Horror. This didn't have that problem because I enjoyed every minute of it. And the after credits were amazing too... although You had to know he was going to survive the fire when he told her about the flame retardant that he was putting on himself to prep for the murders! Plus you knew he wasn't dead when his head got crushed - He just put himself into that deep sleep like we saw the old guy do earlier on in the movie.
This movie had some much minor foreshadowing that you had to pay CLOSE enough attention to catch it, and I love it when a film encorporates things like that! This movie was perfect for me, and I plan on picking it up as soon as I get the chance.
Lance Lives
06-18-2008, 02:06 AM
Yeah, I love foreshadowing too, makes movies so much more fun to watch a second time.
I think it has been said somewhere earlier in this thread, but one of my biggest gripes was with the character of Leslie Vernon himself. I thought the actor over-acted and just came off as annoying.
Lance Lives
06-22-2008, 07:17 PM
I could see where people could see him as being over acted. He got really close to annoying me sometimes, but never really over did it for my tastes I don't guess. He was REALLY close to reminding me of Dane Cook though, which would've been bad.
He did have that 'frat boy douche bag' quality that dane cook has.
sCabbOy
06-23-2008, 10:58 PM
I thought jus about every aspect of this movie blew. The over (bad) acting, bad writing, stupid concept...
Lance Lives
06-23-2008, 11:15 PM
Well dude, that's cool I guess, I personally enjoyed it. The acting could've been better agreed but I thought the concept was great.
Sketch Sanchez
07-22-2008, 05:56 AM
Same here, its the concept and then the execution of said concept that really got me.
Plus I did enjoy the "twist" alot. I dont remember if I saw it coming or not, time to read my old posts...
ADDED:
Okay I guess not, and the twist I'm talking about now isnt the same twist I mentioned in my first post.
What I AM talking about is how the target was always the documentary girl. She was his "final girl" and everything he did was all for her. I loved that.
vBulletin® v3.8.2, Copyright ©2000-2012, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.