Horrorphilia Podcast, Twisted Twins, and Scarecrows Galore

Halloween is a magical time. It is truly the best time of the year (yeah, that's f'n right, Christmas, take a bloody hike!!). This year we had the esteemed honor of co~hosting this special Halloween edition of the Horrorphilia Podcast, episode lucky #52. It was absolutely gore~geous.

A very special thanks to the gentlemen of Horrorphilia, Jason, Chuck, Gonzo, Jeremy, and James (who was there in spirit!) for inviting us on. It was a pleasure and wicked awesome and absolutely radcore. Here's the what...

"Here it is our second annual Halloween Special and we come out with all guns blazing with Jen and Sylvia Soska. They are the beautiful, talented twins, who wrote, produced, directed and acted in the new awesome indie film Dead Hooker in a Trunk. Not only do they give us an awesome interview but they help review three Scarecrow themed movies. First up is the terrible Scarecrow Gone Wild, then the action horror Scarecrows (1988), and finally we end it with the recently released on dvd and blu ray the awesome Dark Night of the Scarecrow. All this plus stories of McDonald happy meals, punching bears in the face, anal beads, and much more you dont want to miss.

Check out the ladies and more info for Dead Hooker In A Trunk at http://www.twistedtwinsproductions.net/

Check out our blog for horror reviews, interviews and more over at www.horrorphilia.net

Contact us by email at email@horrorphilia.net or leave a voice mail at 512-254-7817"

Check out the full podcast HERE, boys and grrls!!
And do treat yourselves to a little looky loo around the horrorphilia archives. After all, you deserve a break today!!

Happy Halloween from your friendly neighborhood Twisted Twins~!!!!

XO

The Scarlet Ending Ladies Looking Gore~geous

Ladies, thank you most kindly. God bless you and your service to Dead Hookers everywhere :)

XO,
Jen

Dead Hookers get Animated at Horror Reanimated!

How appropriate that we get to sit down for a chat with Horror Reanimated's Alan Kelly's evil twin, Adam Wolf, to talk dead hooker? What an incredible pleasure. Say what? Evil twin? Tell us more, Sylv! You got it --

"On this gloriously grim night, Alan Kelly lies bound and gagged in a sulphur pit! I, Adam Wolf, his blood-rag twin brother have replaced him! Horror Reanimated HQ think Alan is shooting his new TV spot ‘Alan K in the Mornin’ (those editors would believe anything I say - curse of looking sweet and easy I s’pose) but the truth is Alan Kelly’s got no talent. Wait ‘til they get a load of me!"

Now you have more of an idea of the wicked fun interview ahead. I love Horror Reanimated. For those of you that haven't heard of them before here is a proper introduction.

"A brand new wordpress site by two authors published by Bloody Books, Bill Hussey and Joseph D'Lacey has gone live to the populace in general. The boys are huge dedicated fans to horror in all its shapes and sizes and degrees of (directional) splatter. They've taken it upon themselves to do the blog to talk about ... horror."

And the 'boys' know their shit. Like my favorite horror films they do a great blend of great horror (and extensive knowledge on it) and great humor -- the best way for the genre to be! Big thanks to the gentlemen for taking the time to talk with us and supporting 'Dead Hooker in a Trunk'. What, pray tell, is this awesome piece like? Here is a delicious morsel, the intro --

"Today’s guests are twisted twins and writer/director double act Jen and Sylvia Soska, whose debut feature ‘Dead Hooker in a Trunk’ is a genre bending, taboo-breaking melting pot of sexploitation/horror/grindhouse and just about every thing else. It’s one fucked-up adrenaline-fuelled ultra-ultra-violent psychosexual whodunit which has been making bloody waves on the underground film circuit and rightfully fucking so Sir. What makes this film more distinctive than any other are the iconic characters, the cleverly conceived storylines, and the talent attached who’ve delivered a high-concept action-horror thrill-ride that would make Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino go all girlish at the knees. Just check out the fast-paced and unapologetic narrative which undoubtedly has a resonance for perverts everywhere. Myself and the staff of HR included!"

Hungry for more? Put on your reading bib and get ready to dig into the whole yummy piece where we talk about Dead Hooker, the making of, the fantastic team that made it happen, and our favorite splat packer, Eli Roth. After you fill up on this knowledge, come back and check in on what the Horror Reanimated crew is up to. I promise you will never leave hungry.

~Sylv

Rob Dimension is Wicked Awesome

In the world there are things awesome, things not awesome, and, most epically, things wicked awesome. Gentlemen and horror advocates Rob Dimension and Zach Shildwachter are two men who are listed under wicked awesome. When we found out that these two gents spoke recently, we just had to share their intimate conversations with the world.



Recently, Zach spoke with Rob via Bloodsprayer.com. If you need a refresher on these aforementioned men of radcore proportions, read on... In Zach's gore~geous words...

"Rob Dimension is a man that wears many hats, and under all those hats is some awesome hair. He’s one of the Hosts of Late Night At The Horror Hotel that’s a staple of Philly TV sets as well as a crusader for all things Horror. Whether at conventions, on multiple websites, or even ringside at the wrestling arena, Rob kicks a lot of ass. Just tune in and see why."

Not only do these gents know their shit, they've also been outstanding supporters of indie horror and ourselves. We must most humbly thank Zach and Rob for their tireless promotion and support of horror. It's people like them that help make the horror industry the thriving community it is.

For the delicious interview, read on HERE!

They even make mention of your friendly neighborhood Twisted Twins...

Thank you from the bottoms of our twisted little hearts, gentlemen, and thank you for all that you do for horror!!

XO,
Jen

It's an Honor Just to be Nominated

The City Of Death International Film Festival nominations are in...

Nominations in the Best Feature Film - Feature Film category are:

Stricken
Spirit Camp
Dahmer vs Gacy
...My Step Dad's a Freakin' Vampire
Dead Hooker in a Trunk

Nominations in the Best Director - Feature Film category are:

Matt Sconce - Stricken
Kerry Beyer - Spirit Camp
Ford Austin - Dahmer vs Gacy
...David Matheny - My Step Dad's a Freakin' Vampire
Jen Soska & Sylvia Soska - Dead Hooker in a Trunk

Nominations in the Best Art Design - Feature Film category are:

Stricken
My Step Dad's a Freakin' Vampire
Dahmer vs Gacy
...Spirit Camp
Dead Hooker in a Trunk

Nominations in the Best Actress - Feature Film category are:

Stephanie French - Stricken
Roxy Vandiver - Spirit Camp
Dona Ellis - The Path of Torment
Rikki Gagne - Dead Hooker in a Trunk
Jade Kelley - Sibling Rivalry

Nominations in the Best Actor - Feature Film category are:

David Fine - Stricken
Ford Austin - Dahmer vs Gacy
Lahcen Anajjar - My Step Dad's a Freakin' Vampire
...Gary C. Warren - The Path of Torment
Brandon Maldonado - Scum

Nominations in the Best Script - Feature Film category are:

Jen Soska & Sylvia Soska - Dead Hooker in a Trunk
Kerry Beyer - Spirit Camp
Andrew J. Rausch & Chris Watson - Dahmer vs Gacy
...Kyle Mangrum & David Matheny - My Step Dad's a Freakin' Vampire
Gary C. Warren - The Path of Torment

So excited!! Can't wait to hear how the night goes! We'll be sure to keep y'all posted. The festival starts tomorrow in Huntsville Texas. Hope all you Texans can make it out!

Bloody Best!
Jen

Second Scarlet Ending Video Released

Here is the second music video for the very talented and charismatic band, The Scarlet Ending. The song is 'Phoenix' off their second album, 'Ghosts'. These folks are the real deal - so genuinely sweet and kind, so creative and interesting, and completely self-sacrificing to make their dreams come true. Please check them out and pass it along to your cool friends. This band is going to be huge, one member has be approached by American Idol... trust us, you're going to be hearing and seeing a lot from them!


Now, allow me if you will, to introduce you to the talent that came together to create this video and a little more information on the band.

"Taken off of their sophomore album release "Ghosts," The Scarlet Ending's single "Phoenix" is played against a loose nod to F.451 featuring David Barkes, David Lovgren & Katrin Bowen as The Fireman.

Direction & Editing by CJ Wallis. Camera & Lighting by Robert Walsh. Additional Camera by Jeffrey Zablotny. Crew: Jen & Sylvia Soska. Make-Up by Ashley Hogan.

http://www.thescarletending.com
http://www.fortyfps.com

Produced in large part from the generous donations made via Kickstarter. Thank you from all involved in the production. Additional thanks to Mr & Mrs Soska, Dale Wallis & Marilyn Thomas."

Thank you for all your support, girls and boys. I often imagine your little faces glowing from the computer screen, reading our diary, and it always makes me smile.

xo
~Sylv

First Scarlet Ending Video Released

These wonderful folks here are The Scarlet Ending. We love this band, please check them out and pass this video along to your cool friends. More music here too! We were on the set a couple of weeks ago with CJ Wallis of Forty FPS Productions shooting the band's first two official videos. This is the first. Tomorrow the second will be released. Very rad.

~Sylv

Women Have Shaped Horror

It always surprises me when someone asks me if it's hard for a woman in the horror industry. Horror is one of the few industries that I know of that has always embraced women, written them incredible roles, and been bettered by their brilliant contributions. It is a perfect place for a feminist as men and women alike encourage, support, and give outstanding career opportunities to the fairer sex. Women have terrified us and captivated us. They've challenged us and inspired us. Women like....


Sigourney Weaver.



Mary Harron.



Linda Blair.



Kathryn Bigelow.

These women are power houses. But, they're not the only ones. Monika Bartyzel, of Cinematical, has recently beautifully written an article taking a closer look at the incredible women who have helped make the horror industry what it is today. We are most honored to have been mentioned.

Take a look at the FULL ARTICLE here. Your inner feminist will thank you.

PS. It's only 4 months until February's annual Women In Horror recognition month. See you there, boys and grrls...!

XO,
Jen

Killing Boxx Anyone?

From conception to its natural end (though, I highly suspect that time isn't dawning near anytime soon...), DEAD HOOKER IN A TRUNK was created purely for audience enjoyment. When people tell me they've seen and loved DHIAT, I swell with pride and joy. When I see a fan wearing a Dead Hooker T-Shirt, I squeal with glee. When someone places a Dead Hooker Bumper sticker on their car, I beam with happiness. As I hope everyone who's supported our film knows, we will always be grateful and thankful to all our wonderful friends, fans, families, and Dead Hooker enthusiasts everywhere for doing their part to help spread the good word.

Today we were floored by receiving a glowing review from Killing Boxx. With profound joy, Sylv announced to me: "WE GOT TEN CLEAVERS!!". I read on with great antici... pation...

"Every so often a trip to the movies will leave you high as a kite, jacked on cinephillic steroids. This usually occurs after seeing a film that possesses genuine heart, breathing with a life of its own, acting as a catharsis, it provides a much appreciated and necessary reaffirmation of all that captured the imagination and fascination with cinema to begin with, Dead Hooker In A Trunk from Vancouver based Soska sisters of Twisted Twins Productions, is of this ilk."

We've been honored to have had DEAD HOOKER IN A TRUNK play all around the world, venues huge and small. We can proudly say that we have never turned down a reviewer or venue. We've always humbly wanted to share our Dead Hooker with as many people as possible. Recently, Marc of Brutal As Hell brought the film to Harlow’s Pub, Peterborough, New Hampshire. It was a free event and we were blown away to know that that pub was packed! "And let me tell you - it was CRAZY! The pub isn't huge. But it was literally standing room only. Folks were sitting on the floor!" Will, writer of the above review from Killing Boxx, was in attendance this evening.


We would like to extend a very special thanks to Marc for putting the whole event together and inviting our Dead Hooker to the party! Thank you to Will for taking a chance on an indie film and coming out! And thank you to EVERYONE who came out!

For the full, sexy review, read on HERE.

Our Bloodiest of Bests!
Jen

PS. DEAD HOOKER IN A TRUNK is playing ALL over the place and we want you, yes, you, to go and see it! Not coming near you? Well, drop us a line and let's make it happen. After all, together, we're an army.

Blood Bath 2 Film Fest is coming....

One of the first film fests to show 'Dead Hooker in a Trunk' - the epically long two hour version. Now our Hooker is trim, precise, and right to the point like any good prostitute. Huge thanks to Dione and Andrew Rose for all the support and showing the film at their festival. It's going to be a bloody good one!

~Sylv

Horribly Excited for Horrible Imaginings!

We are complete dorks, but also (and more importantly) are very excited for San Diego's first horror film festival - Horrible Inaginings Film Fest. Read it up here. We talked Hooker, this fest, and so many other great things over at Monster Island Resort Podcast with Miguel Rodriguez! Yes, we were invited back and we sort of watched our language - really fun chat, congratulations on episode 11. Listen it up here, boys and girls.

Thank you for supporting a set of identical nerds. You folks are the best! Talk to you soon.

~Sylv

What's admission for One Hooker at the Dark Carnival?

Super excited to announce that that lovable decaying slut, 'Dead Hooker in a Trunk' will be available for viewing at the Dark Carnival Film Festival. A late-comer to this fantastic event, you will be able to view the film at the Geek Tyrant Booth at the fest! Many many thanks to the fabulous friend to dead hookers everywhere, Brian Shirley, for getting Hooker out to the fine folks of Bloomington, Indiana this coming November 19th to the 21st. What is the Dark Carnival Film Fest? Let me learn you up --

"Forget so-called 'film festivals' that show movies on a tiny screen in a cheesy hotel conference room. Dark Carnival is a week-long celebration of horror, featuring art exhibits, live entertainment, merchandise vendors, special guests and more. But most of all, we're all about the movies!

We screen the best indie horror films from all over the world in the best possible venues - a vintage 1930s era movie theater that features state-of-the-art sound and projection equipment, on a 30 by 20 foot screen."

Get those delicious, yummy details here or here. Totally creep their site and look at the pics and testimonials. This is a real fun horror-appreciation filled week of awesomeness. Don't you want to be a part of that? I knew it.

~Sylv

The Scarlet Ending, FortyFPS Productions, and Twins, Twins, Twins...

Over the weekend, we Twisted Twins had the esteemed pleasure of working on two music videos for the Scarlet Ending, an incredible New York band, directed by CJ Wallis. If you don't know him by now, *cough, Goody Two Shoes, cough, Dead Hooker*, shame on you. Seriously. Go sit in the corner and let the grown ups talk. As for the rest of you, read on...

Though the content of the videos are hush hush for the time being, I CAN tell you that these videos will blow your mind grapes. You ought to keep a close eye on FortyFPS Productions for all the details and the release dates.

As for the Scarlet Ending, who may these wondrous musicians be? Glad you asked.

In their own words...

"The music scene in Syracuse, New York is a snow globe that has been turned upside down and shaken by a new sound. That sound is coming from The Scarlet Ending, a six piece band that is stretching the confines of genre. Loosely defined as indie rock, The Scarlet Ending offers a blend of pop with cabaret, the grit of dive bar rock with the charms of three part harmony. This unique personality comes through in the angelic yet unforgiving voices of sisters Kaleena and Kayleigh Goldsworthy. These two command the stage while playing piano and guitar respectively, in addition to violin, melodica, and a pawn shop of other instruments. The theatricality of the girls is supported with a backbone of innovative musicians. Guitarist Jon Tedd and Cellist Jess Hafner compliment the layers of sound while Bassist Aaron Garritillo and drummer Nicholas Streeter syncopate and carry each song to their full potential.

The Scarlet Ending has received recognition both home and abroad, beginning with their debut EP which earned them a Syracuse Area Music Award for Best Pop Record of 2005. Their follow up full length, Cries and Whispers, saw the release of “The Way We Used To Be” which was featured on MTV’s The Hills. Since this breakthrough, the band has been active touring in the United States as well as seeing time in Greenland, Germany, and The Middle East as members of the Armed Forces Entertainment roster. This upswing of exposure has made The Scarlet Ending an unrelenting force. With the release of "Ghosts" in April 2010, featuring Will Noon on drums (of Straylight Run and Breaking Pangea), The Scarlet Ending is ready to expand their fan base, and share the rare promise and potential they possess. The Scarlet Ending has never claimed to redefine the expectations of pop music, but they just might."

And may I just say that the Scarlet Ending is absolutely amazing. As people and artists. It was a real pleasure to meet fellow twins that are working their collective asses off for their art. It really shows. They are talented, brilliant, sweet, thoughtful, beautiful, and driven. I miss them already.

Stay tuned for the delicious unveiling...

Bloody Best!
Jen

Drunken Zombie Film Festival 2010 Schedule

Boys and grrls, for those of you attending or interested in attending this year's Drunken Zombie Film Festival, Saturday November 6th, here's how the meal will be served....

Enjoy!

Friday 7P-12A (5 Hours)

7PM - Everything's Eventual

8:30PM -Pickman's Muse

10:00PM - House Of Black Wings


Saturday 12P-12A (12 Hours)

12:00 - Feast Of The Assumption

1:45PM - Monster Of Phantom Lake

3:45PM - The Unhuman

5:00PM - Shorts: Night Of The Hell Hamsters
5:20PM - Cabine Of The Dead
5:35PM - Death In Charge
5:55PM - Thirsty
6:15PM - Zombie Apocalypse
6:20PM - Snuff
6:25PM - Chemical 12-D
6:35PM - Eel Girl
6:45PM - Alice Jacobs
7:15PM - Shadows

7:30PM - Dead Hooker In A Trunk

9:15PM - Bongface 2

10:30 - Trilogy Of Blood

11:15PM - Trippin'

For full festival details, treat yourself to a little gander here...DRUNKEN ZOMBIE FILM FESTIVAL OFFICIAL SITE.

Have a gore~geous night! Please let us know what you think of our Dead Hooker through our site!!

XO

It's Your Turn, New Hampshire!!

Brutal As Hell presents DEAD HOOKER IN A TRUNK! Watch the fuck out, New Hampshire. Our Dead Hooker is headed your way!!

Here are the delicious details...

"Indie Horror/Exploitation Night at Harlow’s Pub in Peterborough NH – Saturday October 23rd – 10 PM

It’s a night of demons, druggies, punk rockers, dead hookers, and church youth group. What? A church youth group?

That’s right – This Saturday night at 10 PM, drag your undead corpse to Harlow’s Pub in Peterborough NH for a night of killer horror, brought to you by BrutalAsHell.com.

Starting at 10PM we’ll be screening a twenty-minute short film – NIGHT OF THE PUNKS. Directed by Dan Reisser of the popular E! Entertainment show, The Soup, Night of the Punks promises loads of over the top gore and comedy in a throwback style to the great splatter films of the 80′s.

Then we roll into our feature flick. A film so perverse we can hardly utter its name. Well… okay… we will anyway. DEAD HOOKER IN A TRUNK is a modern exploitation film featuring a pair of twisted twin sisters, (who are completely unalike in every way except for their looks), their junky friend, and a bible toting youth group dork as they plummet from one mishap into another all because of a Dead Hooker in a Trunk! Written and directed by the Soska Sisters, “Dead Hooker” has been all the rage amongst horror fans this year and has been gaining critical acclaim. It’s not one to be missed!

The cost of admission? Only your soul! That’s right. This screening is free to the public, which means more money for beer! Show up at Harlows early to grab a bite to eat from the kitchen (which closely promptly at 10), hobble your way downstairs to where we’ll be rolling these incredible films. Bring your friends, bring your enemies, just come out on in droves.

Harlows Pub is located at 3 School Street (at the corner of Grove St) in Peterborough NH.

Visit www.HarlowsPub.com for more information..."

I hope you all are able to make it out and we look forward to hearing what you think of the film! C'mon, boys and grrls. It's FREE ;)

XO
Jen

Where the Dead Hooker Roams

Just a quick reminder that 'Dead Hooker in a Trunk' is making her rounds, she might even be coming to your town! Upcoming festivals and screenings --

BRUTAL AS HELL PRESENTS INDIE/EXPLOITATION NIGHT -- October 23rd

GRIMM UP NORTH 2 FILM FEST -- October 28th to the 31st

CITY OF DEATH INTERNATIONAL FILM FEST -- October 30th

37TH NORTHWEST FILM & VIDEO FEST -- November 5th to the 13th

DRUNKEN ZOMBIE FILM FEST -- November 6th

HORRIBLE IMAGININGS -- November 6th to the 7th

ABERTOIR HORROR FILM FEST -- November 10th to the 14th

BLOODBATH 2 FILM FEST -- November 13th

Please enjoy your dead hookers responsibly - luckily you don't have to buy her dinner, right? Right!? Ha ha. I kill me.



All the bloodiest of bests,
~Jen and Sylv

Ruby Tuesday

I promised you something a few weeks ago, boys and girls. Just for you, my dearest friends, a sneak peek. Please enjoy.

xo
~Sylv

City of Death has a Red Light District for Dead Hookers

There is a theater in Huntsville were dead hookers come out to play. That's right. 'Dead Hooker in a Trunk' will be playing at the City of Death International Film Festival this October 29th and 30th. This festival is the brainchild of film maker, Carlo Rodriguez, who was originally looking for a venue to premiere his film 'Psycho Killer Bloodbath'. He found a beautiful restored theater but it didn't rent for a single screening only for the day. Being a huge supporter of independent film, Carlo decided to take the opportunity to throw an admissionless film festival to share independent films from around the world. Pretty fucking sweet thing to do, I must say. But what do they say?

"You are invited to attend the 1st annual City of Death International Film Festival and watch over 15 horror films that will screen October 29th and 30th in Huntsville, Texas. This Halloween weekend will be something special as you join us for two fright-filled days and nights of independent horror films from some of America's and Canada's up and coming filmmakers. The festival is open to the public and, best of all, is free to attend.

The City of Death Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing independent film makers in the horror genre, but, like most horror films, it is also focused upon raising awareness about social issues. Educating people about the environmental benefits of a green burial is a primary goal of the event as is raising donations for the protection and preservation of wildlife sanctuaries maintained by the Church. The festival is also dedicated to educating the public about the horrors of the death penalty which Bishop Russell compares to Pagan Satanic rituals. Huntsville, Texas is the death capital of the Free World, known worldwide as "The City of Death."

Admission to the festival is FREE to anyone 18 years of age or older. WARNING: Due to violence and nudity in some of the films, photo identification will be required to confirm the age of attendees. Attendees under age 18 must be accompanied by their parent or guardian."

Ask your cool parents to go, kids. Mine let me go and look how I turned ou... um... but seriously, I found that since I was only allowed to see restricted movies if I acted mature, it made me really feel special when I got to see a great horror and then have my mom talk to me about it. Cool parents indeed.



If you can get there, if it's nearish, grab your friends and go out. It's a great line-up, you'll be seeing some great indie horror movies, and it's free! You just go in and put your eyes and ears on a paradise cruise in horror la la land! It's going to be insane.

~Sylv

Shiver in Antici.............pation! Vancouver Horror Con is ON!!!

Are you over nineteen years of age? Hmmm. Well, how's your ID? We are tickled pink (or maybe red would be more appropriate) to announce the First Annual Vancouver Horror Convention! Appropriately scheduled for October 31st. Say whaaaaaaaaat!?

"On Halloween day, horror fanatics from across the lower mainland will converge on Main Street to celebrate horror culture. The convention brings together artists, film makers, special effects personnel and local vendors for an expose of what the horror subculture is producing in Vancouver. Hosted by the one and only Miss.Gory Rae this event will be one you wouldn't wanna miss! Make-up artists from renowned special effects schools are geared to compete for the Dr. Frankenstein Award for the most horrific creation. Local shops are also taking part by setting up vendor stands to sell horror-related products – comics, jewelry, fashion, video, posters and more. Other attractions include a performance of gore burlesque and a DJ set from Pyra Draculea aka DJ Drake, host of Vampire’s Ball on CiTR 101.9FM."

We, Twisted Twins, are joining the fine ladies and gentlemen of the horror scene this Sunday, October the 31st at noon til six at 2655 Main Street – two blocks south of Main and Broadway in Vancouver, beautiful British Columbia. So, join your fellow Canucks, pop on up over the boarder, take a quick flight, and come on down! Only for five bucks Canadian. Are you involved in the horror scene? Join in the bloody good times -- If you are interested in booking a vendor table, please contact Raien at events@badbird.tv

~Sylv

BITCH IS THE SHIT!

What is Bitch Media?

"B-Word Worldwide, doing business as Bitch Media, is the nonprofit organization best known for publishing the magazine Bitch: Feminist Response to Pop Culture. Bitch Media’s mission is to provide and encourage an empowered, feminist response to mainstream media and popular culture.

We seek to be a fresh, revitalizing voice in contemporary feminism, one that welcomes complex arguments and refuses to ignore the contradictory and often uncomfortable realities of life in an unequivocally gendered world. We seek to forge connections between the messages we get through the media and pop culture and the commercial agendas of the corporations behind them, and we hope to foment an ongoing dialogue for readers that continues beyond the pages of the magazine and the website, which hosts blogs and podcasts.

Bitch has a diverse audience, which keeps the dialogue and the movement we’re a part of dynamic and strong. But Bitch is also uniquely situated to draw in young readers who are at a critical moment in their lives—a moment when they are discovering feminism and activism, finding answers to who they are, and questioning the definitions of gender, sexuality, power and agency prescribed by the mainstream media. Bitch not only plays a role in exploring these topics, it also provides a toolkit for engaging in analysis that promotes activism and impels social change."

Bitch. What an appropriate name. It is a huge pleasure/happiness of mine when I see women and feminists (of both fair sexes) take back a name that was originally meant to degrade and turn it into a symbol of strength. Much like the fabulously titled Ax Wound Zine, by the horror feminist and close friend, Hannah Neurotica, but more in a moment. Firstly, why did this company pick such a name? Some might argue that the name alone will keep some from reading. What does Bitch say about it?

"For as long as we’ve been publishing Bitch, there’s one question that gets asked over and over. And over. “Why did you choose that word as the name of your magazine?” While we’re aware that the magazine’s title, and the organization’s name, is off-putting to some people, we think it’s worth it. And here’s why.
The writer Rebecca West said, “People call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat.” We’d argue that the word “bitch” is usually deployed for the same purpose. When it’s being used as an insult, “bitch” is an epithet hurled at women who speak their minds, who have opinions and don’t shy away from expressing them, and who don’t sit by and smile uncomfortably if they’re bothered or offended. If being an outspoken woman means being a bitch, we’ll take that as a compliment.
We know that not everyone’s down with the term. Believe us, we’ve heard all about it. But we stand firm in our belief that if we choose to reappropriate the word, it loses its power to hurt us. And if we can get people thinking about what they’re saying when they use the word, that’s even better.
Bitch. It’s a noun. It’s a verb. It’s a magazine. It’s a feminist media organization."

Today an article written by Hannah Neurotica graces Bitch entitled: Horror Show: Women Horror Directors to Watch. It is an extreme honor that Jen and myself were included in this list of female directors to watch. Hannah through her multiple publications, writings, podcasts, and being the founder of Women in Horror Month has introduced me to so many great female talents. This article also discusses 'The Commune' director and Bleedfest Film Festival director, Elisabeth Fies. The article also introduces readers to Amy Lynn Best - cofounder of the former Pretty/Scary now Fangirltastic and director of 'Severe Injuries', 'Splatter Movie', 'Spicy Sister Slumber Party', and Tiffany D. Jackson - director of 'The Field Trip' and webseries 'So I Married A Vampire'. Do read up on the fabulous hard work these ladies have done to obtain very little girl's dream - becoming a horror director with fucking sweet flicks!

Definitely go and check the full article out here. For those of you hungry for any delicious morsel --

"As little girls, Jen & Sylvia started acting and modeling, but as they got older they realized that identical female twins have limited options when it comes to film roles. As Sylvia puts it, “The roles got more and more repetitive—hot twin bikini girls, hot twin sorority girls, hot twin aliens…” With a desire to have more options, the multitalented sisters decided to venture into stunt work. And as they learned how to kick ass, they also jumped into launching Twisted Twins Productions and writing, producing, directing, and starring in their first feature."

For those of you, boys and girls, that are reading and love this zine and want to do more - you can. Bitch has been going strong for 14 years thanks to subscribers, donors, and contributors. Buy a zine, pass it along to your friends, or make a donation. Every bit helps keeping this a witty, smart, and thought-provoking feminist critique and analysis of pop culture alive!

~Sylv

Take a Seat Under the Haunted Tree

Along our travels and business in the film, more specifically horror films, I have had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful people in the industry. One individual who I would like to share with you, boys and girls, is Andrew James Crandall and his Haunted Tree Productions. He is an insightful, kind, hard-working visionary and his work is pretty fucking rad. Check it out for a boo or two!

Also, if you see something cool that you'd like to see get some attention, tell us about it. We indie film makers need to stick together.

~Sylv

Northwest Likes Their Hookers Dead!

Oh, happy news! Oh, happy day! We just received word this morning from festival manager, Thomas Phillipson, that Dead Hooker in a Trunk has been accepted in the 37th Northwest Film & Video Festival in Portland. The Opening Weekend will be November 5th to 7th with a big party and the screening of all shorts. The festival runs from Novemeber 5th to the 13th. More details as we find out when Hooker will screen. Haven't heard about NW Film & Video Fest before? Here's to get you up to date --

"A juried survey of new moving image arts by independent Northwest film and video makers, the Festival draws over 300 entries in all genres each year and is judged by a prominent filmmaker, curator or critic. Now in it's 37th year, the Festival provides a forum where outstanding independent work receives public recognition, critical appraisal, and an engaged and enthusiastic regional audience. Past judges have included Gus Van Sant, Matt Groening, Todd Haynes, Christine Vachon, Bill Plympton, Dan Ireland, Karen Cooper of Filmforum, B. Ruby Rich, Amy Taubin, Jim Hoberman, and John Cooper, Sundance and Outfest programmer. Generally, 30-45 shorts, features, and documentaries are screened during the Festival, then 10-15 shorts are selected for the Best of the Northwest Tour program which travels the following year throughout the Northwest to media arts centers, museums, arts councils, and universities. Total audience exceeds 6000."

It looks like a very cool, very fun festival. Events include: workshops, BarCamp, and parties - super killer parties that you should be perfecting your party-face for in the upcoming weeks. Here is a list of the selected films --

"10 YEAR OLD PIZZA / Andrew Ellmaker

2ND HAND CINEMA / Aaron Bourget

A BUMP WAS A PEARL / Johanna Hibbard

A MOMENT'S REVERIE / Tess Martin

BAD WRITING / Vernon Lott

BEAUTY IN FUNCTION / Nicolas Arms

BLANCO / Timothy David Orme

BROOKE & PATTY TALK ABOUT LIFE PART 7 / Jim Lowry

BUMMER SUMMER / Zach Weintraub

COINED / Elijah M. Hasan

CROSSINGS / Brian Libby

DEAD HOOKER IN A TRUNK / Jen Soska, Sylvia Soska

DEAR PETER / Orland Nutt

FACING THE STORM: STORY OF THE AMERICAN BISON / Doug Hawes-Davis

FATHER SON HOLY SPIRIT / Stephen Friederick

FIELD GUIDE TO NOVEMBER DAYS / Nick Peterson, Mary Defreese

FROG / Austin Andrews

GUILTY EXCEPT FOR INSANITY / Jan Haaken

HOW EUNICE GOT HER BABY / Ana Valine

INTO DARKNESS / John Waller

LANDSCAPES / Laurel Degutis

MODERN VIEWS: A CONVERSATION ON NORTHWEST MODERN ARCHITECTURE / Boaz Ashkenazy, David Miller

MUMBLES / Rick Raxlen

MY VOYAGE TO EGYPT / Ian Berry

OAKS / David Cress

POINT NO POINT / Jennifer Campbell

ROBIER TALKS ABOUT LIFE PART 28 / Jim Lowry

SAVAGE / Lisa Jackson

SHI-SHI-ETKO / Kate Kroll

SHOT ON BLOOD: KOZMIKONIC ELECTRONICA / Oliver Hockenhull

SHUT UP AND RIDE / Michael Ward

STUFF / Lawrence Johnson

THE ADULTS IN THE ROOM / Andrew Blubaugh

THE THOMAS BEALE CIPHER / Andrew S. Allen

THE TRUE BELIEVERS / Nathaniel Bennett

TWO BEDS / Kanako Wynkoop

WHO THE HELL IS ROBERT RONNIE BRANAMAN / Guy Borges, Patrick Rosenkranz"

Such a beautiful event, so many cool films - please do come on out if you can and let us know what you think about it. It's a hop, skip, and a jump (not our preferred method of travel) from our hometown, we're just in pre-production right now, but we're going to see if we can move around our schedule to make it! More info to come, boys and girls - hope you are having a great October.

~Sylv

Thank you, Batman, said the Hooker

Tales from the Batcave - a pretty rad blog written by Mr. Bones - has chosen to include the Dead Hooker in a Trunk trailer in a list of stuff he is looking forward to checking out. Thank you, Mr. Bones. I think people should check out your site - it gives you the information you need with the Batmaniness that you crave. A perfect ten.

Sylv

This Is What A Hooker Fan Looks Like Vol. 2

It's all in the attitude. Just throw those mitts in the air like you just don't care... about anything but punk rock radness! This lovely lady is Steph, friend of dead hookers everywhere, looking awesome in indie support and fashion. Thank you for sporting the T, Steph. You are beyond lovely and you're doing my favorite pic pose!



The 'Sign of the Horns' is rad. But where did it come from? And why do we use it to underline what we're passionate about? Let's see what rock-God, Ronnie James Dio, had to say:

From a 2001 interview with Ronnie James Dio on Metal-Rules.com:

Metal-Rules.com – "I want to ask you about something people have asked you about before but will no doubt continue to talk about, and that is the sign created by raising your index and little finger. Some call it the "devils hand" or the "evil eye." I would like to know if you were the first one to introduce this to the metal world and what this symbol represents to you?"

R.J. Dio – "I doubt very much if I would be the first one who ever did that. That's like saying I invented the wheel, I'm sure someone did that at some other point. I think you'd have to say that I made it fashionable. I used it so much and all the time and it had become my trademark until the Britney Spears audience decided to do it as well. So it kind of lost its meaning with that. But it was...I was in Sabbath at the time. It was symbol that I thought was reflective of what that band was supposed to be all about. It's NOT the devil's sign like we're here with the devil. It's an Italian thing I got from my Grandmother called the "Malocchio". It's to ward off the Evil Eye or to give the Evil Eye, depending on which way you do it. It's just a symbol but it had magical incantations and attitudes to it and I felt it worked very well with Sabbath. So I became very noted for it and then everybody else started to pick up on it and away it went. But I would never say I take credit for being the first to do it. I say because I did it so much that it became the symbol of rock and roll of some kind."

Now all I need to do is get Dio a Hooker T and this post is complete! Hmm... Thank you for all the pictures, messages, and everything, boys and girls. The film would have no life without you and I am so grateful. Keep those pictures and messages coming -- we want to hear from you all!

Sylv

This Is What A Hooker Fan Looks Like Vol.1

I remember the first 'Dead Hooker in a Trunk' T-shirt that I sold. It was to this young man who wanted a shirt that would generally piss off his parents - he hadn't seen the film but dug the title. He said it was a movie he'd love to see.

Things have changed. Now people hear about the film and get the gear to pimp the Hooker in all her indie, grindhouse glory. The shirt still pisses off the right people, but it's so much more.


This is Gaaron O'Rourke Varner. He has seen the trailers, read the reviews, and bought the shirt. In thirty minutes, he will be watching it for the first time. You can view that very screener at the Horrible Imaginings: The Horror Film Festival of San Diego Saturday, November 6 at 1:00pm - November 7 at 12:00am. Get your details here, boys and girls.

Mr. Varner, sir, you look fan-fucking-tastic in that T! Thank you for all your generous and gracious support of the film. She's a good Hooker, slightly used but no one can be perfect. Enjoy the film, friend! And to everyone out there, reading this blog, thank you for your support of the film. We're kicking it into high gear - so let's get this Hooker everywhere!

Sylv