Reel Horror News Victim Spotlight: Face Slashed, Body Found at Bottom of Stairs in Shocking Murder

Counselors Face Slashed: The Brutal Murder Of Mark Jarvis

By Staff Reporter | April 13, 1984 | Local Gazette

Packanack County — A young counselor-in-training was found brutally murdered late Saturday evening on the grounds of Packanack Lodge, his body discovered at the bottom of an exterior stairway in what authorities are calling a vicious and unprovoked attack.

Mark Jarvis, 22, had volunteered along with several others to attend Paul Holt's counselor training center at the remote lakeside facility. What was meant to be a weekend of preparation for summer camp work turned into a scene of unimaginable horror.

According to investigators, Jarvis was last seen alone on the lodge's upper deck around 11:30 p.m. Approximately thirty minutes later, fellow trainees heard a disturbance and discovered his wheelchair overturned at the top of the stairs, with a trail of blood leading down to where his body lay.

"The victim sustained a catastrophic facial wound consistent with a large bladed weapon, possibly a machete or similar tool," stated Detective William Reynolds. "The nature of the attack suggests extreme violence. This was no accident."

The medical examiner confirmed that Jarvis died from the initial blow to his face before his wheelchair rolled backward down the stairs. The weapon has not been recovered, and no suspects have been identified.

Mark Jarvis catches a bad one.

"We heard something, a crash, maybe a scream, but by the time we got outside, it was too late," said one traumatized trainee who wished to remain anonymous. "There was blood everywhere. Mark never had a chance."

Friends described Jarvis as independent, determined, and excited about the opportunity to work with children. His death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community.

Paul Holt, director of the training program, was visibly shaken. "Mark was loved by everyone here. The thought that someone did this to him here, in what should have been a safe place, is beyond comprehension."

Authorities have expanded their search to include the surrounding woods and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The training program has been indefinitely suspended, and several trainees have already left the area, citing fear for their safety.

"We're treating this as an active homicide investigation," Detective Reynolds added. "Until we apprehend the person responsible, we're advising extreme caution for anyone in the vicinity of Packanack Lodge."

Filed under: Reel Horror News "When the blood hits the headlines."

👁️🗨️ Based on Friday the 13th Part 2

Reel Horror News Victim Spotlight: Death in the Garage

 Death in the Garage: Annie Lansing's Final Ride

By Staff Reporter | May 1, 1987 | Bangor Daily Ledger

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Bangor, ME — Early Friday morning, authorities discovered the body of Annie Lansing, 38, inside her closed garage. The prominent real estate agent and mother of two was found seated behind the wheel of her Mercedes-Benz with the engine still running, the air thick with exhaust fumes.

Annie Lansing's wild drive home

The grim discovery was made by her husband, George Lansing, who returned home just after midnight. According to police, he found the garage door shut, the engine humming, and a faint light spilling from beneath the door. When he forced it open, he was met with a thick cloud of exhaust and the sight of his wife slumped over the steering wheel.

The official cause of death has been listed as carbon monoxide poisoning, but investigators admit that several details remain unclear. Lansing had been driving home late Thursday night after reportedly attending a business dinner in town, though police have yet to verify where, or with whom, she met that evening.

“There were signs she may have been in distress before she died,” said a department source. “The car showed evidence of impact — dents, scratches, even what appeared to be blood along the front bumper.”

Neighbors claimed to have heard strange noises outside Lansing’s home around midnight, describing what sounded like “a woman arguing” and “a car door slamming repeatedly.” One nearby resident, who asked not to be named, reported hearing something even more disturbing:

“I swear I heard a man yell, ‘Thanks for the ride, lady!’ right before the engine stopped,” the neighbor said. “Then everything went quiet.”

Others say Lansing had seemed distracted in recent weeks, mentioning an unnamed man she was “trying to avoid.”

“She wasn’t herself lately,” said a close friend. “She told me she’d done something terrible and didn’t know how to make it right.”

Investigators are now working to determine whether Lansing may have struck a pedestrian along Route 9 earlier that night. Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle matching her description pulled over near the wooded stretch where a hitchhiker had last been spotted days before.

“It’s too early to say what really happened,” said the sheriff’s office. “But the timeline raises serious questions.”

Authorities have not ruled out foul play.

 Based on Creepshow 2: The Hitchhiker

                                                       

Another Grisly Tale

Before her mysterious death, Lansing’s name had appeared in several local gossip columns. For another tragic case that began with laughter and ended in blood, read our earlier report on Shelly Finkelstein’s Fatal Prank,  the story that shocked Higgins Haven.

Reel Horror News Victim Spotlight: The Murder of Shelly Finkelstein

Tragic End for Local Prankster: The Murder of Shelly Finkelstein

By Staff Reporter | October 19, 1982 | Local Gazette

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Higgins Haven — Early Sunday morning, authorities discovered the body of Shelly Finkelstein, 18, a local teen known for his mischievous pranks and playful antics. The teen had been entertaining friends at a lakeside cabin when his latest prank took a fatal turn.

Shelly with his mask after a prank

Witnesses reported that Shelly, attempting to lighten the mood with his trademark humor, donned a full wetsuit and a hockey mask for a joke. His plan was to scare his friend, Vera Sanchez, but moments later, Shelly vanished into the barn.

“We thought it was another prank at first,” said Chuck Garth, one of Shelly’s companions. “Then we heard the scream, and everything went silent. When we found him… it was horrifying.”

Law enforcement confirmed that Shelly suffered a fatal throat wound. The barn showed no signs of struggle beyond the fatal injury, suggesting the teen was taken completely by surprise.

“The scene was disturbing,” said the lead investigator. “It appears Shelly never had a chance to react. This incident is a tragic reminder of how quickly fun can turn fatal.”

Authorities are urging teens and residents to remain cautious in isolated areas and report any suspicious activity immediately.

---

Next Case File

For another chilling tale of a local couple’s untimely end, check out our previous feature: Harold and Edna Hockett’s Fatal Night, a grisly lakeside story that still haunts the township.

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🩶 Filed under: Reel Horror News  “When the blood hits the headlines.”
👁️‍🗨️ Based on Friday the 13th Part 3

Reel Horror News Victim Spotlight: Teen Killed in Tragic Halloween Accident

Teen Killed in Tragic Halloween Accident: The Fiery Death Of Ben Tramer

By Staff Reporter | October 31, 1981 | Local Gazette

Local Township — On Halloween night, 1981, authorities reported the death of Ben Tramer, 17, after a shocking accident on a quiet residential street. The teen was out trick-or-treating when he was struck by a police vehicle, which slammed into a parked van that immediately burst into flames.

Ben Tramer just before his untimely death

According to witnesses, officers on patrol mistook Ben for a dangerous intruder and hit him as he ran along the roadway, clad in his Halloween costume.

“It was horrifying,” said one neighbor. “He was just enjoying Halloween, and no one could have predicted this outcome.”

Emergency responders confirmed that Ben suffered fatal blunt-force trauma upon impact, and the van fire caused additional chaos at the scene. Investigators are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident and reminding residents to exercise caution during nighttime festivities.

“This was a tragic accident,” said the lead investigator. “Our hearts go out to the family, and we are reviewing all safety protocols to prevent a similar tragedy.”

Authorities urge families and children to remain vigilant while trick-or-treating and report any suspicious activity immediately.

---

🩶 Filed under: Reel Horror News  “When the blood hits the headlines.”
👁️‍🗨️ Based on Halloween Part II

Reel Horror News Victim Spotlight: Lakeside Store Tragedy

Lakeside Store Tragedy: Harold and Edna Hockett Murdered

By Staff Reporter | October 19, 2025 | Local Gazette

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Local Township — In the early hours of Sunday morning, authorities discovered the bodies of Harold Hockett, 28, and Edna Hockett, 27, inside their isolated lakeside general store. 

The couple had been reported missing the previous evening after failing to return from a routine supply run.

Edna Hockett

Neighbors recalled seeing the couple earlier that day, with Edna carrying a bundle of laundry and Harold chatting with customers. However, by nightfall, their absence raised concerns.

“They were always so punctual,” said one local resident. “When they didn’t show up, we knew something was wrong.”

Upon entering the store, law enforcement found Harold's body behind the counter, a cleaver lodged in his chest. 

Edna's body was discovered in the back room, a knitting needle protruding from the back of her head.

“The scene was unsettling,” commented the lead investigator. “There were no signs of forced entry, suggesting they knew their assailant.”

Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in the area.

---

🩶 Filed under: Reel Horror News  “When the blood hits the headlines.”
👁️‍🗨️ Based on Friday the 13th Part 3

Reel Horror News Victim Spotlight: Outhouse Slayings Shock Pinehurst

 

Outhouse Slayings Shock Pinehurst: Couple Found Dead in Isolated Campground Restroom

By Staff Reporter | October 19, 2025 | Local Gazette

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Local Township — Authorities are investigating the grisly deaths of two young adults discovered early Sunday morning in a rural campground restroom near the outskirts of town.

The victims, identified as Demon Winter, 22, and Anita Spears, 19, were last seen late Saturday night, parked in a van near the campground. 

Demon Winter cozy in the outhouse

Witnesses from a nearby residence reported hearing loud music, laughter, and what one resident described as “singing from inside an outhouse” shortly before the screams began.

“I thought they were just goofing off,” said one local camper, who asked not to be identified. “Then the music stopped. And it got real quiet. Too quiet.”

According to the preliminary coroner’s report, both victims suffered fatal stab wounds. Investigators found no signs of forced entry to the restroom, though authorities noted the door was jammed shut from the outside with a metal rod.

The sheriff called the scene “one of the most disturbing” in recent years and declined to comment on ongoing speculation that the attack may be connected to a string of unsolved murders in the area.

Locals aren’t so sure.

“People keep dying around that campground,” said diner owner Ethel Hubbard, whose property borders the grounds. “Something evil still walks out there. You can feel it.”

Officials are urging residents to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity in wooded areas after dark.

---

🩶 Filed under: Reel Horror News  “When the blood hits the headlines.”
👁️‍🗨️ Based on Friday the 13th: A New Beginning

Reel Horror News Roundup: September 7 - September 13, 2025

BREAKING: Teen Found Slain

Detectives in Crescent City are baffled after 19-year-old Scott Miller was found brutally murdered in the Lucas family’s kitchen. The cause of death: repeated blows from what appears to be a meat cleaver.

The bizarre twist? Investigators insist the attack bears the unmistakable signature of serial killer “Meat Cleaver Max,” who was executed in the state electric chair months ago.

“Same style, same brutality, right down to the angle of the strikes,” said Detective Harrow. “It’s as if Max walked right out of the morgue.”

🎞️ Based on House III: The Horror Show (1989)

Stephen King’s The Long Walk Gets a Chilling New Film Review

Fifty teens. One deadly marathon. The Long Walk turns Stephen King’s dystopian novella into a tense, haunting film that tests courage, endurance, and morality.

👉Read the full review here: Fangoria

Conjuring: Last Rites Haunts Box Office Records Worldwide

The final chapter in the Conjuring saga didn’t creep in; it exploded. With a whopping $194 million global opening (about $83-84 million domestic), Last Rites smashed previous horror debut records, including the $190M global opening of It (2017). It’s also Warner Bros.’ biggest horror opening yet, reaffirming that Ed & Lorraine Warren’s finales still draw the crowds. 

Other Notes to Watch

• The film scored $104-110 million internationally during its first weekend. GamesRadar++1

• Its domestic haul ranks Last Rites among the top three horror openings ever in the U.S. Rotten Tomatoes Editorial+2Kotaku+2

• Despite mixed critical reception (Rotten Tomatoes ~55-56%, CinemaScore “B”) the franchise’s pull remains undeniable. AP News+1

👉Read the full breakdown here: Fangoria

Alamo Drafthouse Unleashes Dark Visions for Halloween 2025

Alamo Drafthouse is going full-throttle this Halloween with Dark Visions, a horror-packed lineup that blends new nightmares, cult classics, interactive movie parties, merch, and food & drink treats. Films like The Strangers—Chapter 2, Black Phone 2, 28 Days Later, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and a razor-sharp 4K showing of the full Nightmare on Elm Street franchise, just in time to test your will to stay awake.

Other Notes to Watch

• They’re also rolling out a themed menu from September 30 to November 3, featuring specials like a pumpkin-and-pie-spice “Cult Classic Shake,” “Protector Pie” pizza, “Water to Rum” cocktail, and “Divine Dough-Nation Cookies” (with $1 from each order going to local breast cancer nonprofits). 

• Interactive movie parties are in the mix for Scream, Creepshow, Van Helsing, and The Mummy. 

• Their annual Dismember the Alamo horror marathon returns October 25 with secret films, wall-to-wall scares, and limited-edition merch.

👉Read the full spine-tingling lineup here: Fangoria

Amazon MGM Revives One of Horror’s Most Infamous Houses

The haunted house at 112 Ocean Avenue is getting a fresh scare. Director David F. Sandberg (Lights Out, Annabelle: Creation) is set to helm a new Amityville 

Horror reimagining for Amazon MGM, with The Conjuring: Last Rites writers Richard Naing and Ian Goldberg scripting. Producers Peter Safran and John Rickard, plus execs Natalia Safran and Lotta Losten, are backing the return of this chilling tale. No casting or plot details yet, but you can bet it’ll lean into the real-crime lore that made the original a horror legend.

Other Notes to Watch

• This isn’t the only Amityville project in motion: Joseph & Vanessa Winter (of Deadstream) are also developing a separate version. 

• The original 1979 film and 2005 remake will likely loom large in comparisons; fans are curious whether this version will return to the source (“true story” claims, the DeFeo murders) or overhaul the mythology. 

• Sandberg reuniting with The Safran Company isn’t surprising; his horror track record (especially with collaborations like Annabelle: Creation) gives this new Amityville a lot of potential weight. 

👉Read the full announcement here: Fangoria

Your Weekly Streaming Horror Stars: Sinners, Terrifier 3, The Conjuring & More

Horror fans, your next binge is set. Whether you want vampiric palace politics in Sinners, clown carnage from Terrifier 3, or a rewatch of The Conjuring in light of the new sequel, this week’s streaming lineup has something to scratch every kind of fright itch. Expect killer sharks in Dangerous Animals, messed-up toy terror in The Monkey, and a superhero-gone-wrong vibe with Brightburn. Lights off, nightmares on. 

👉Read the full streaming roundup here: Fangoria

Reel Horror News Roundup: August 31 - September 6, 2025

Rewound and ready to play. The screen flickers and Reel Horror News is back with the gory goodies.

💉 Local Woman Meets Gruesome End 

Lakeview Times — August 30, 2025
Elaine Henderson, a woman from the outskirts of Lakeview, didn’t suspect her routine house call with Dr. Giggles would end in horror. 

Witnesses report hearing strange mechanical whirs before the shocking discovery: a nasal probe driven directly into her brain. 

The town is left both horrified and whispering about the infamous doctor’s latest visit, while authorities scramble to piece together what really happened.

🎞️ Based on Dr. Giggles, the chilling scene that made Elaine’s fate unforgettable.

Final Destination: Bloodlines Dominates HBO Max

Final Destination: Bloodlines has become the most-watched film on HBO Max, breaking franchise records and topping streaming charts. Its theatrical release earlier this year grossed over $300 million globally, and critics are calling it the strongest entry yet.

🎞️ Want all the details? Read the full article here: Dread Central

🔥 Keanu Reeves’ The Devil’s Advocate Tops Tubi

Even decades later, The Devil’s Advocate is drawing viewers in. Keanu Reeves’ supernatural courtroom thriller has surged to the top of Tubi’s free streaming charts, proving the mix of devilish deals and suspense still captivates horror and thriller fans alike.

🎞️ Read the full story here: Dread Central

🎈 IT: Welcome to Derry Prequel Series

The highly anticipated prequel to Stephen King's IT is coming to HBO Max, with Pennywise returning to terrorize Derry once again. The nine-episode series will premiere on October 26, 2025, and promises to explore the dark origins behind the town’s most infamous horrors.

🎞️ Read the full article here: Fangoria

Jaws Makes a Splash at the Labor Day Box Office

Steven Spielberg’s classic shark thriller Jaws has returned to theaters for its 50th anniversary, making a significant impact at the box office. The film earned an estimated $8.1 million through Sunday, landing at number two on the domestic charts. 

With the Monday holiday included, the total rises to $9.8 million, outperforming several new releases and proving that the terror of Amity Island still captivates audiences. 

🎞️ For more details, check out the full article here: Fangoria

Sam Raimi Breathes New Life into Magic

The master of horror is teaming up with Weapons producer Roy Lee for a remake of the eerie 1978 thriller Magic. The tale of a ventriloquist undone by his sinister dummy feels right at home in Raimi’s twisted wheelhouse.

👉 Read the full story here: Fangoria

Review – The Conjuring: Last Rites

The Warrens return in The Conjuring: Last Rites, delivering chilling performances and a fair share of scares. While the storytelling stumbles, fans of the franchise will still find plenty of haunting moments to enjoy.
👉 Read the full review here: Dread Central

The Dark Tale That Ended Richard Bachman

Stephen King once wrote under a secret identity, but one chilling novel brought his alter ego to an unforgettable end. 

The Dark Half still haunts fans and reshaped the landscape of horror storytelling.

👉 Read the full story here: Screen Rant 

Reel Horror News Roundup: August 11 - August 16, 2025

BREAKING: Local Teen Meets Fiery End; Authorities Puzzled

Vinnie Manalo, a local teen with a flair for trouble, was found dead after an unusual and… explosive incident involving a road flare. 

Eyewitnesses report the flare made direct contact with his mouth; in fact, stuffed in his mouth. Some admit to being slightly amused at the over-the-top nature of the accident.

Manalo, who had been last seen quipping about “handling any situation with style,” clearly took his dramatic tendencies a bit too far. Authorities are investigating, though locals say this one’s going to be hard to top in town lore.

🎞️ Based on Friday the 13th: A New Beginning; the deadly flare scene that made Vinnie unforgettable.

Max Minghella Joins DC’s Clayface Horror Reboot

Max Minghella is in talks to join the cast of DC Studios' upcoming Clayface film, directed by James Watkins (Speak No Evil) and written by Mike Flanagan (The Haunting of Hill House). The movie explores the tragic transformation of Matt Hagen, an actor whose face is disfigured by a gangster, leading him to seek help from a fringe scientist, portrayed by Naomi Ackie. Minghella is rumored to play Detective John, a Gotham City detective dating Ackie's character. The film is scheduled for release on September 11, 2026.

Read the full story at The Hollywood Reporter.

Weapons Prequel in Development

Following the unexpected success of Weapons, director Zach Cregger is in early discussions with Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema about a prequel focusing on the enigmatic Aunt Gladys, portrayed by Amy Madigan. The original film featured a chapter dedicated to her backstory, which was ultimately cut to maintain pacing. With the film's success, there's renewed interest in exploring her origins. While no official deals have been made, the concept is gaining traction.

Cregger is currently preparing for the release of his Resident Evil reboot, slated for September 18, 2026. Given his commitments, any potential Weapons prequel would likely be a future project.

Read the full story on The Hollywood Reporter.

Vicious Starring Dakota Fanning to Premiere on Paramount+

Dakota Fanning stars in Vicious, a psychological horror film directed by Bryan Bertino (The Strangers). The film follows Polly (Fanning), who receives a mysterious wooden box from a late-night visitor. Inside, she finds instructions to place three items: something she needs, something she hates, and something she loves. This seemingly simple task spirals into a nightmarish ordeal that threatens her reality. 

Vicious will have its world premiere at Fantastic Fest in September 2025 and will be available for streaming on Paramount+ and digital platforms starting October 10, 2025.

Check out the poster at The Hollywood Reporter.

The Haunted Forest Slashes Its Way into FrightFest

Keith Boynton's latest horror feature, The Haunted Forest, is set to have its world premiere at London's FrightFest on August 24, 2025. The film follows Zach, a horror-movie obsessive who takes a job as a scare actor at the legendary Haunted Forest. What begins as a dream job turns nightmarish when a fellow employee is found dead, and Zach realizes the terror may be all too real. Filmed at Markoff's Haunted Forest, the longest scare trail in America, the film offers a meta-horror experience. The cast includes Grayson Gwaze, Kaitlyn Lunardi, Cedric Gegel, and Meghan Reed. Produced by Cassie D'Agostino and Mashka Wolfe, with SFX by Paul Brubacher (The Jester), The Haunted Forest promises to be a standout at this year's festival.

Check out the trailer here.

Reel Horror News Roundup: August 4 - August 10, 2025

LOCAL TEEN FOUND DEAD IN LOCKED BEDROOM 

Springwood Gazette – July 27, 1985

Authorities are investigating the fatal stabbing of Ronald Grady, 17, whose body was discovered in his locked bedroom late Saturday night. 

Grady was last seen with his good friend Jesse Walsh earlier that evening.

Police say there were no signs of forced entry, leaving investigators puzzled as to how the killer gained access. Officials describe the circumstances as “deeply troubling.”

🎞️ Based on A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge (1985), the chilling sequel in Wes Craven’s legendary horror franchise.

August Horror Highlights Weapons, Strange Harvest, and Jimmy and Stiggs

August 2025 offers a thrilling mix of horror with Weapons’ dark witchcraft tale, Strange Harvest’s supernatural serial killer mystery, and the wild alien bender in Jimmy and Stiggs. Variety’s roundup has the full list of chilling new releases to watch this month.

🎞️ Read: Top Horror Movies to Watch This August (Variety)

Inside Weapons: Zach Cregger's Genre-Bending Horror

In a recent interview with the Associated Press, director Zach Cregger delves into the making of his latest horror film, Weapons. Set in the fictional town of Maybrook, Illinois, the film follows the mysterious disappearance of 17 children from a single classroom. Cregger discusses the challenges of blending horror and humor, emphasizing the importance of authentic reactions over scripted jokes. The film features standout performances from Josh Brolin as a grieving father and Julia Garner as a determined teacher, both navigating the chaos and paranoia that ensue. Cregger's approach to storytelling aims to reflect the absurdity and desensitization present in modern society.

🎞️ Read: Weapons Interview (Associated Press)

Weapons: A Chilling Blend of Mystery and Horror

Zach Cregger’s Weapons delivers a haunting narrative that intertwines the mysterious disappearance of 17 children with a deep dive into the complexities of human nature. The film's anthology-style storytelling, coupled with standout performances from Julia Garner and Josh Brolin, crafts a chilling atmosphere that keeps audiences on edge. Critics have lauded its ability to blend suspense with emotional depth, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. 

🎞️ Read: Weapons Review (The Hollywood Reporter)

In non-Weapons news...

"HIM" Unveils Chilling First Trailer: The Price of Fame

The first full-length trailer for HIM, a new horror film produced by Jordan Peele, has been released, offering a glimpse into a disturbing tale set against the backdrop of professional football. Starring Marlon Wayans as legendary quarterback Isaiah White and Tyriq Withers as his protégé Cameron Cade, the film explores the dark side of ambition and fame. 

Peep the new trailer here. (GamesRadar)

Derry's Darkest: Ranking Stephen King's Most Terrifying Tales

Collider ranks all five of Stephen King's novels set in the haunted town of Derry, Maine. Topping the list is It, the iconic tale of Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Following closely are 11/22/63, Insomnia, Bag of Bones, and Dreamcatcher, each contributing to the eerie tapestry of Derry's dark history. The article delves into the unique elements of each novel, offering insights into King's exploration of this cursed locale.

🎞️ Read: Every Stephen King Novel Set in Derry, Ranked (Collider)

Reel Horror News Roundup: July 28 - August 3, 2025

MAN FOUND BURIED IN SAND ALONG SHORELINE

By Staff Reporter

Police are investigating the death of Richard Vickers, 52, whose body was discovered at low tide buried upright to the neck in wet sand outside his oceanfront estate. Investigators believe the incoming tide led to drowning, though how Vickers came to be buried remains unclear.

A police spokesperson noted Vickers’ face was locked in what they described as “a defiant grin,” as if challenging the sea itself.

🎞️ Based on the story “Something to Tide You Over” by Stephen King, featured in the 1982 film Creepshow.

Stephen King's 1922 Crawls Back Into the Spotlight

Nearly a decade after its release, the bleak and bloody Netflix adaptation of 1922 is getting fresh attention as one of the most unsettling Stephen King stories on screen. Rats, guilt, and a slow descent into madness? Still hits hard.
🔗 Read more on Yahoo

Stephen King Doesn’t Hold Back on His Least Favorite Adaptations

Even the master of horror has regrets. In a recent roundup, Stephen King shares which of his book-to-film adaptations he thinks missed the mark — including The Shining (yep), Dreamcatcher, and The Dark Tower. Let’s just say he’s not sugarcoating it.
🔗 Read more on Slashfilm

Barbarian Director Zach Cregger Builds on His Success with Weapons

After Barbarian stunned with its 2022 release and viral word-of-mouth success, director Zach Cregger is now teasing Weapons—a new genre-blending horror that critics are already calling 2025’s standout. With a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating, fresh teasers, and emotional weight behind its story, Weapons seems poised to expand Cregger’s vision in exciting new directions.
🔗 Read more on Yahoo

Jaws Turned 50 — Mondo’s Capsule Collection Delivers Iconic Horror Gifts

To mark the 50th anniversary of Jaws, Mondo unveiled a limited-time capsule collection featuring soft vinyl designer figures, collectible posters, and deluxe vinyl score editions celebrating the film’s legendary status and soundtrack.

Also hitting shelves: collectible figures from Entertainment Earth tied to the milestone anniversary. Perfect for fans who want tangible reminders of cinematic terror.

🔗 Read more on Fangoria

Reel Horror News Roundup: July 21 - 27, 2025

🎥 WITNESS RECALLS SEEING "BOXING MATCH TURN SLAUGHTER" ON NYC ROOFTOP

Manhattan, NY — July 21, 2025

A Hell’s Kitchen resident has come forward with a chilling recollection of a rooftop fight she witnessed in the summer of 1989, a fight that ended in what she now believes was a brutal homicide.

“I thought it was just two guys sparring,” said Sharon Belvey, who lived across from the rooftop of the old Penbrook Hotel. “One of them had real heart. The other... didn’t flinch. Just stood there like a machine.”

Belvey described watching the athletic young man, later identified as Julius Gaw, throw everything he had at his opponent. “Punch after punch. I was rooting for him! But then, outta nowhere, the big guy grabs him and—” Belvey reportedly stopped speaking, shaken. “His head just... flew.”

🎞️ BASED ON A SCENE FROM FRIDAY THE 13TH PART VIII: JASON TAKES MANHATTAN (1989)

‘Sinners’ and ‘Superman’ Break the Mold, But Superhero and Horror Films Face Uncertainty 

This year, blockbusters like Sinners and Superman have found success, but the overall box office landscape shows neither superhero nor horror genres are guaranteed hits anymore. Audience tastes are shifting, with many recent releases underperforming despite big budgets and buzz. Studios are navigating this changing terrain, looking for fresh ideas to reconnect with moviegoers.
🔗 Full story on Variety

More Great Horror Movies Still on the Way in 2025

And if you thought 28 Years Later was peak horror for the year, Screen Rant says there are at least seven upcoming movies that could surpass it—titles including The Black Phone 2, Keeper, Together, Weapons, and more.
🔗 Check out the full list on Screen Rant

In a Violent Nature Sequel Already in Development

Fresh off its Sundance buzz and Shudder debut, this brutal slasher from the killer’s POV is already getting a follow-up. Director Chris Nash confirms a sequel is on the way — and if the first film’s slow-burn carnage is any clue, it’ll be just as unsettling.
🔗 More from The Independent

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon Finds Its Director

Lionsgate has tapped JT Mollner, known for Strange Darling and the upcoming The Long Walk, to write and direct an adaptation of Stephen King's 1999 novel. The story follows a young girl lost in the woods, with her love for baseball pitcher Tom Gordon manifesting in hallucinations that aid her survival. Producer Roy Lee, who has a history with King adaptations, will reunite with Mollner for this project. This marks another Stephen King adaptation for Lionsgate, following their upcoming release of The Long Walk.
🔗 Read more on The Hollywood Reporter

The Long Walk Drops Gritty SDCC Trailer

At San Diego Comic‑Con, Lionsgate unveiled a haunting new trailer for The Long Walk, a dystopian adaptation of Stephen King’s early Richard Bachman novel. Directed by Francis Lawrence and written by JT Mollner, the clip spotlights a brutal televised contest where teens must keep walking—or face execution. With a cast including Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Judy Greer, and Mark Hamill, the film hits theaters on September 12, 2025—and fans are already fired up for it.
🔗 Read more on Fangoria

Reel Horror News Roundup: July 14 - 20, 2025

Unsolved Case Files: The Window Fall That Sparked a Citywide Panic

Dateline: Chicago, IL — July 2025

Police are reopening the mysterious death of Maggie Peterson, a babysitter whose body was found after a fatal fall from a high-rise apartment window in the late '80s. The case, long considered an accident, is now under review after new forensic evidence suggests foul play. Strangely, detectives are questioning whether a small footprint—found on the kitchen counter—could belong to a child… or something else entirely.

“Nothing about this scene makes sense,” said an anonymous source close to the case. “The angle of impact, the broken planter… even the toy doll recovered near the scene—it all feels staged.”

Though long ruled a tragic accident, the case has recently drawn renewed public attention due to a surge in doll-related urban legends sweeping local schools.

City officials are urging calm, but insiders say the investigation has taken a darker turn.

For readers who want to revisit Maggie’s infamous fall, this report is inspired by the events of Child’s Play (1988).

A Collector's Dream for King Fans

The Folio Society is set to release a limited-edition, hand-illustrated version of Stephen King’s It on July 15. With haunting visuals and premium design, this edition promises to be a prized possession for fans of Pennywise and literary horror alike.

👉 Read more at Screen Rant

Decent Horror Reboots? Early Buzz Says Yes

After years of skepticism, it looks like the tide might be turning for horror reboots. I Know What You Did Last Summer is getting a surprising wave of early praise, with many calling it a sharp, stylish return that doesn’t just rely on nostalgia. Could this mark the start of a new era for reimagined horror classics?

Read more here: GamesRadar - Positive First Reactions to 'I Know What You Did Last Summer'

Why 2025 Is a Scarily Good Year for Horror Movies

From long-awaited sequels to daring original projects, 2025 is shaping up to be a standout year for horror fans. The BBC takes a look at the genre’s momentum, highlighting how horror continues to thrive creatively and commercially. With major titles on the horizon and fresh voices breaking through, it’s a promising time for anyone who loves a good scare.

👉 Read the full article on BBC News

“The Purge 6” Confirmed – And It’s Bringing Back a Fan Favorite

The creator of The Purge just confirmed a sixth installment is in active development, and longtime fans have a lot to be excited about. According to GamesRadar, the upcoming film will see the return of a key franchise character and introduce a group of “warrior women” into the chaos. The story has officially been handed to producer Jason Blum, signaling that the project is moving full speed ahead. While details are still under wraps, it sounds like The Purge is preparing to expand its violent vision in new, surprising ways.

👉 Read more at GamesRadar

Psycho Secrets: Hitchcock’s Shower Scene Still Sends Shivers

More than six decades after it first terrified audiences, Psycho’s infamous shower scene continues to spark analysis and admiration. A new behind-the-scenes dive uncovers how Alfred Hitchcock crafted such enduring terror—without ever showing a knife piercing skin.

If you're a fan of cinematic horror history, you won’t want to miss the full breakdown. Read the article on Variety here.

Reel Horror News Roundup: July 7 - 13, 2025

 🔪 This Week in Horror

Strings of Death: Teen’s Bizarre Sleepwalk Ends in Fatal Drop

Springwood, OH — A teenage patient was found dead outside Westin Hills Psychiatric Hospital early Wednesday morning after what officials are calling a “severe sleepwalking accident.”

Phillip Anderson, 17, had reportedly been struggling with recurring nightmares and was undergoing experimental group therapy at the time of his death. 

According to hospital staff, Phillip’s body was discovered in the courtyard directly beneath a locked tower window. 

While the official report lists the cause as suicide, several patients in the ward claim the teen had been asleep moments before his fall — and that his movements were “not his own.”

“We saw him moving through the hallway like a puppet,” one anonymous source told Reel Horror News. “It was like… something was controlling him.”

Hospital administrators have declined to comment on the security breach or the presence of any physical injuries beyond blunt-force trauma.

👁️‍🗨️ Based on A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors

Critical Bloodbath: 2025 Horror Releases Face Brutal Reviews

A wave of box office shrieks turned to groans as critics handed out some of the year’s nastiest reviews, and not for the reasons horror fans hoped.

According to a new roundup from ScreenCrush, 2025’s horror slate has been plagued by creative misfires and squandered potential. 

While horror often thrives on low budgets and big ideas, this year’s worst offenders missed both marks, leaving viewers more bored than bloodied.

🎞️ Want the gory details? Read: The Worst Horror Movies of 2025 (So Far)

New ‘Halloween’ Edition Slashes Onto Shelves

🎃 Evil never dies… but it does get reissued. Halloween fans, get ready to stalk the aisles: a new edition of John Carpenter’s 1978 slasher classic is on the way.

This collector’s release of the genre-defining Halloween promises enhanced packaging, fresh extras, and the kind of glossy treatment that makes your current Blu-ray feel like a forgotten babysitter.

Timed to capitalize on enduring fan loyalty and Michael’s immortality, this edition gives horror collectors one more excuse to double (or triple) dip.

🎞️ Thinking about upgrading your copy before the next fog rolls in?
Here’s how to get your hands on the new Halloween release

Beach Town Murmurs Stir an Urban Legend

A new piece from Surfer Magazine digs into how a group of young Californians drew eerie parallels to the 1997 slasher I Know What You Did Last Summer—not in fiction, but in real life. What started as a local story about a hit-and-run spiraled into something much stranger, with both authorities and surfers asking: is the ocean keeping secrets?

🚨 Reports are surfacing from Santa Monica that echo a certain ‘90s slasher classic. Coincidence? Or is something or someone making waves?

🎣 Take a look at the eerie real-world connection to I Know What You Did Last Summer:
👉 Read the full story on Surfer

Meet the Contestants of King’s Dystopian Nightmare in The Long Walk

Bloody Disgusting has released a chilling first look at the character posters for Walk or Die: The Long Walk, the upcoming film adaptation of Stephen King's grim, dystopian tale. Each poster introduces a young participant in the deadly marathon, where the prize is survival, and losing means death.

These visuals hint at a grounded, gritty tone faithful to King’s original vision, and the anticipation is building fast.

🎟️ See the posters and meet the doomed walkers:
👉 View the full article on Bloody Disgusting

Reel Horror News Roundup: June 30 - July 6, 2025

YOUNG WOMAN KILLED BY SPEAR GUN AT ABANDONED LAKEFRONT

HIGGINS HAVEN, NJ — Authorities are investigating the suspicious death of a woman found late Friday evening with a harpoon lodged through her eye at the former Higgins Haven summer property.

The victim, identified as Veronica Sanchez, 20, was reportedly on a weekend retreat with friends when she was last seen near the boathouse. 

“It looked like a joke at first,” said one teen. “Then we saw the blood.”

Law enforcement has not released details on suspects, but the murder weapon — a speargun — was recovered near the dock. 

Investigators noted the weapon appeared aged but functional, suggesting it may have been brought to the scene intentionally. 

The Higgins property, long considered cursed, has now been cordoned off once again.

“It was supposed to be a fun weekend.”

🎞️ Based on a scene from Friday the 13th Part 3 (1982), directed by Steve Miner. 

Edgar Wright’s Running Man Is a Full-Throttle Reimagining

Edgar Wright is taking Stephen King's dystopian nightmare for a wild new spin. His upcoming take on The Running Man isn’t just a remake — it’s a high-octane reimagining that aims to get closer to the novel’s grim core, with Wright’s signature kinetic style at the helm.

🎬 Ready to run? Take a peek at the first teaser trailer over at Stuff.

Jack Bender to Bring Stephen King's The Institute to the Screen

Stephen King's world keeps expanding — and this time, it’s The Institute. Jack Bender, director of Mr. Mercedes, returns to bring another terrifying King tale to life, blending dark government secrets and psychic kids into what could be the next prestige horror-thriller series.

Learn more about the eerie adaptation in the works from Mr. Mercedes director Jack Bender, via Screen Rant.

Killer Kites Is Streaming Now — And It's as Absurd as It Sounds

What do you get when airborne toys turn homicidal? Killer Kites might just be the weirdest horror flick of the decade — and it's finally streaming. Leaning fully into absurdity, this lo-fi indie oddity delivers paper-thin terror with a deadly twist.

🪁 Ready to get tangled in terror? Killer Kites is now streaming — catch the full story at Dread Central.

Stephen King's The Long Walk Might Be His Most Terrifying Story Without a Single Monster

No vampires, no clowns, no killers — just a brutal march and a line you don't want to cross. Stephen King’s The Long Walk strips horror down to its most human core, where survival becomes the scariest game of all. This cult favorite might be King’s quietest — and cruelest — nightmare yet.

🚶Think you could outwalk the rest? Dive into why The Long Walk still haunts readers decades later via CBR.