Forum gets an upgrade + Arcade (1993) returns to the ye olde Vault archives!

Well after a few false starts and numerous failed attempts, I finally managed to figure out how to upgrade the software for my forum. Though I lost a few cool mods that I had installed (the reputation system chief amongst them), I am quite happy with how things went. (Luckily I backed up the forum files before going full steam ahead with the update.) Please, feel free to swing by the BMFV forum (which is chock full of movie and DVD news) and give it a look-see.

Also, be sure to check out my refurbished (old) review for the 1993 Albert Pyun / Full Moon classic, Arcade. This is a pretty bad flick (though not nearly the worst I've ever seen) that features a sentient virtual reality game that steals the souls from anyone who sucks at video games.

Here's the trailer for this straight-to-video schlocker:


I was hoping to finally review "Godmonster of Indian Flats" before the month was over, but alas, it was not meant to be. Have no fear though, because that awful giant mutant sheep epic will become part of the Vault archives in the very near future; probably even as soon as Monday night. I'll keep you posted on my progress with that review and will announce its arrival at the Vault as soon as I get it uploaded.

Well that's it for tonight. I'm friggin' tired and I need to get up relatively early to go to the bank, so g'night everyone!

Next Psychic Fair in Champaign Urbana, Illinois

So many people were excited about this past Saturday's Psychic Fair
and asked when the next one would be. So here's the date:


Saturday, March 21, 2009
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Psychic & Health Fair:
Location: Beads N Botanicals, 117 North Broadway, Urbana, IL 61801

Come and Join Us!

Palmistry, Psychics, Tarot Readers, Reiki, Reflexology and more

$20 per session. Register at the door.

Body/Mind/Spirit Spring 2009
Held at Beads N Botanicals
117 N Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
217-365-9355

New Angry Video Game Nerd Video: Milon's Secret Castle

I've become a huge fan of James Rolfe, better known as The Angry Video Game Nerd, in the past month or so. The brand of justice he administers to awful video games is entertaining, and his angry reviews are always spot on. To view the entire bulk of his work, visit Cinemassacre.com.

The Angry Video Game Nerd's latest rant is over the game "Milon's Secret Castle." This is probably one of the most difficult games that Nintendo (and Hudson Soft) ever developed and this video had me waxing nostalgic about all the times I tried playing it and ended up losing my temper.

Enjoy the video!

The exodus has begun: A*P*E has come home to the Vault!

I was feeling a bit restless (though now I'm tired enough to hit the hay) and decided the begin the long, painful process of moving my old reviews from the Vault's Geocities archives, to my current domain. I cleaned up and posted my old review of A*P*E, so that it's readable and fits with the rest of the site.

This is just the first of about 110 reviews that have yet to make the transition to my current site. It's going to be a long process, but in the end, the Vault will be complete, visitors will have plenty to read, and I can finally say goodbye to Yahoo Geocities forever.

I'm going to bed, so enjoy the new (Old) review and have a fantastic night!

New capsule review for "The Ghouligans! Super Show!" + New installment of The BMFV Genre Watch!

The updates just keep coming! Tonight I posted a review for the fun indie short, "The Ghouligans! Super Show!" This forty-minute sketch comedy show features a ragtag group of goofy monsters, a trio of cute go-go girls, and overdubbed luchadors in all sorts of humorous situations. (Learn more about this flick and get yourself a copy at the Official Ghouligans website!)

And just in time to do your DVD and Blu-ray shopping tomorrow, here is the latest installment of the now weekly, B-Movie Film Vault Genre Watch! Notable DVD and Blu-ray releases include: "HULK VS.," "Dead & Buried," "Dead of Night," and "Redneck Zombies: 20th Anniversary Edition!" Sadly, the only genre release in theaters this week is "The Uninvited." It looks ok, but seems more like a solid rental to me. In my opinion, if you want to spend nine bucks at a movie theater this weekend, then go see "Taken" with Liam Neeson.

All of this updating has made me pretty tired, so I'm going to retire for the evening and watch a flick or two. G'night b-movie fans!

Introducing the B-Movie Film Vault Blog - Version 3.0!

Well, after a few failed attempts at integrating this blog into my site, I said "aww, screw it" and decided to leave it at its current (and most likely permanent) home at Blogger.com, because "if it ain't broke, don't fix it," right?

However, I did take the time to painstakingly update the BMFV Blog and give it an all new layout. I like this template better than the last, but there are still one or two things I don't care for. Still, its a step up from version 2.0 of the BMFV Blog, so I guess we can call this one.... Version 3.0!

I have tomorrow off and will be staying home for the day, so expect an update to the site late Monday night! I'll have an all new capsule review written up for the indie sketch comedy show, "The Ghouligans! Super Show!" plus I'll be posting the latest weekly installment of the B-Movie Film Vault Genre Watch! Heck, if I'm feeling good and have the energy, I may even add another review or a new section to the site as well!

Stay tuned for more b-movie goodness; I'll blog ya later!

Orphaned reviews to head home to the Vault this year.

One of the insane tasks I set before myself when I moved the Vault to its current home, was to redo all of my old reviews (which numbered at just over 100 when I departed from Yahoo! Geocities). What was I thinking?! Sure, some of my older film reviews are lacking (I started writing about movies back in 2000 when I was just sixteen), but I don't have the time to go back and write a fresh review for each and every movie that I've already covered!

That's why I'm going to bring those orphaned reviews over from the old Geocities site, fix them up a bit, and create a section at the Vault where they can live out their days in peace and comfort. I haven't worked out all the details yet, but expect to see this plan come to fruition soon.

To view my old (and often regrettably bad) reviews, visit Ye Olde Vault Reviews Archive!

This week's Genre Watch post is a go; update to the B-MFV DVD shop!

The updates just keep on coming folks! I've decided that doing Genre Watch as a weekly thing would be easier, and far less time consuming in the long run. If you're not sure what b-flicks are coming out this week, then you best CLICK HERE and find out!

The B-Movie Film Vault DVD Shop has gotten a little lovin' and is now fully integrated into the rest of the site. While this isn't really a big deal to you, it is something that has bugged me for some time, and I'm glad that I finally took care of business.

If you do swing by the shop and have a few spare bucks, feel free to do a little shopping. As I've stated before, every purchase you make through that store (or on any affiliate links on my site) earns yours truly a little spare change to keep the Vault online.

Well that's it for now, but be prepared for more reviews, a new section to the site, and various changes that can only make The B-Movie Film Vault better.

Kicking off 2009 with a Harry Warden double feature!

Well here it is b-movie fans, the first (and definitely not last) update of 2009! For your reading enjoyment, I present you with two items: First, there's the updated review for the classic 1981 slasher film, My Bloody Valentine, complete with screencaps and a fresh review for the new Lions Gate DVD release. (Which by the way is UNCUT!) The second item of interest is a brand new capsule review for My Bloody Valentine 3D, which was a whole helluva lot of fun to see on the big screen. There's tons of gore and mayhem, full frontal female nudity, and the 3D effects were fantastic! Pickaxes, fiery explosions, eyeballs, and more pop out at you, bringing you closer to the action on the screen!

I've got more stuff on the way including this week's Genre Watch post (I've decided that posting a weekly list of upcoming cult DVDs and theatrical releases is far more easier than compiling four weeks of info and putting into one single article), a long overdue capsule review for "The Ghouligans! Super Show," plus I still have to hammer out the rest of the "Wanted on DVD" page.

So enjoy those two reviews slasher fans and be sure to check back at the Vault soon for more new updates! Blog ya later!

Herbal Medicine Chest Registration in Champaign Urbana

Wise Weeds Botanical Studies

Herbal Medicine Chest Course

Over the years, I’ve discovered that each individual herb has so much to teach us about healing and our relationship to nature. Just when I make the mistake of thinking I know almost everything about an herb’s properties, I learn of another through direct life experience or knowledge shared with me by herbalists whom I respect.

This course will cover somewhere between 25 and 50 herbs altogether. However, you should be very pleased with yourself if you develop a working knowledge of considerably less.

The Herbal Medicine Chest covers holistic approaches to “medicine,” a traditional Chinese medicine view of “medicine,” and a Native American perspective on “medicine.”

You will learn how to us herbs safely and responsibly; methods of preparing herbs; suggested herbs to keep on hand for everyday use; how to make herbal oil infusions and salves; and how to use wild edibles as food and medicine.

Herbal Classes will be held at

Beads N Botanicals

117 N Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL 61801

217-365-9355

E-mail: beadsnbotanicals@gmail.com

On Thursday nights, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Starting May 7^th through June 4^th.

Cost: $150 per person, due by May 6^th

Or $125 prepaid by April 23^rd

Beads N Botanicals Class Schedule for Winter 2009 in Champaign Urbana, IL

Body/Mind/Spirit Classes Winter 2009

Held at Beads N Botanicals

117 N Broadway Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
217-365-9355
Please pre-register and pay for all jewelry making and craft classes
at least two days in advance of the actual class, sooner, if possible, to guarantee yourself a spot in the class. Some classes have been filled a week or more in advance of the date.

Advance pre-registration with payment required for the following classes. See schedule for details.

Soul Coaching Class

Heart Wisdom Yoga

Reiki I

Psychic & Health Fair:
Saturday, January 24, 2009 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Come and Join Us! Psychics, Tarot Readers, Reiki, Reflexology and more. $20 per session.

Wednesday, January 14
Basic Stringing: Necklace Design: Want to learn how to put together a necklace, but not sure how to begin? Or, how to end it? Cost: $18, materials included. … 6 p.m.

Wednesday, January 21
Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings: A great starter class! You'll make two pairs of earrings. Please Note: This class is a pre-requisite for our Wire-Wrapping Pendants class. Cost: $15, 1 hour, materials included. … 6 p.m.

How Does the Tarot Work?… A basic introduction to how it is used for divination. Cost: $5 … 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, January 27

Soul Coaching Class:Tuesdays: Jan 27, Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, Mar 3rd, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Teacher: Lisa M. Billman, M.S.Dedicated to an in-depth decluttering of the metal, emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of your life. Includes a 28-day program with practical, carefully crafted steps which provide the tools you need to find more peace, harmony and alignment for your life. Clear away old blockages so that you can truly begin to uncover your authentic self and hear the secret messages of your soul. To register, call Lisa at 217-898-2313. Cost: $300.

Advance Pre-registration with payment required.

Wednesday, January 28

Basic Stringing: Bracelet Design: Want to learn how to put together a bracelet, but not sure how to begin? Or, how to end it? $15, 1 hour, materials included. …6 p.m.

Basics of Psychic Protection …Learn how to protect yourself from unwanted outside influences.

Cost: $5…7:30 p.m.

Saturday, January 31

Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings: A great starter class! You'll make two pairs of earrings. Cost: $15, materials included. Please Note: This class is a pre-requisite for our Wire-Wrapping Pendants class. Cost: $15, 1 hour, materials included … 11 a.m.

Advanced Wire Working: Wire Wrapping Pendants:
Do you have a stone that would make a wonderful pendant? But have no clue how to make it into a pendant? In this class, basic techniques for caging tumbled and rough rocks in cages of wire will be taught. Hands-on. Wire and stones will be provided. Bring a special piece if, you want. $22, 1 ½ hours, materials included. (Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings is a prerequisite to this class.) 1 p.m.

Saturday, January 31

Reiki Roundup Meet and Greet: Learn about Reiki, the art and science of channeling universal life force energy to promote spiritual, mental and physical healing. Whether you are new to Reiki, or have studied it, you are welcome to join in. This is a great opportunity to meet Reiki Master Marlitta, who will be offering Reiki classes here at the shop.

Time: 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $5.00

Advance pre-registration with payment required for the following classes. See schedule for details.

Heart Wisdom

Yoga Reiki I

Tuesday, February 3

Heart Wisdom Yoga
Tuesdays: Feb 3, 10, 17, 24, Mar 3rd, 10^th 10 a.m.-11a.m.. Teacher: Amy Sax Luke, Certified Yoga Instructor. Using breath and movement to strengthen the physical body while releasing stress.

Cost: $75 for six classes. Advance Pre-registration with payment required. No drop-ins. Minimum 5 students.

Wednesday, February 4
Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings: A great starter class! You'll make two pairs of earrings. Please Note: This class is a pre-requisite for our Wire-Wrapping Pendants class. Cost: $15, 1 hour, materials included. … 6 p.m.

Spiritual Cleansing: Housekeeping for Body, Mind & Spirit… Cost: $5… … 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 7

Scents & Sensuality: The use of botanicals to make oneself more attractive to members of the opposite sex goes back hundreds, if not thousands, of years. The art of perfumery entices and delights many people. Learn about its secrets--scents that influence passion, acting as catalysts to amore. Cost: $10, 1 hour….1 p.m.

The Sole Experience…Foot Reflexology with Marlitta: Not a class, but an opportunity for you to pamper yourself. This special type of foot massage is available by appointment (recommended) or walk-in. Cost: $65 per hour; $35 per half hour. Noon to 5 p.m. Call the shop to make an appointment.

Wednesday, February 11

Advanced Wire Working: Wire Wrapping Pendants:
Do you have a stone that would make a wonderful pendant? But have no clue how to make it into a pendant? In this class, basic techniques for caging tumbled and rough rocks in cages of wire will be taught. Hands-on. Wire and stones will be provided. Bring a special piece if, you want. $22, 1 ½ hours, materials included. (Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings is a prerequisite to this class.) 6 p.m.

Wednesday, February 18

The Sole Experience…Foot Reflexology with Marlitta: Not a class, but an opportunity for you to pamper yourself. This special type of foot massage is available by appointment only. Cost: $65 per hour; $35 per half hour. Noon to 5 p.m. Call the shop to get the time slot you want.

Introduction to Western Astrology… Learn about sun signs, moon signs and their roles. Cost: $5 … 6 p.m.

Saturday, February 21
Basic Wire Working: Collage Pendants/Pins: Learn how to make theme-based pendants or pins using basic wire working techniques. Makes great gifts whether for cat lovers, nature lovers, celestial themes, weddings, graduations or healing. Cost: $24, 1 ½ hours, materials included … 11 a.m.

Reiki I Class: Saturday Feb. 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday Feb 22, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Reiki, the art and science of channeling universal life force energy to promote spiritual, mental and physical healing. Reiki is a powerful and simple hands on technique, which anyone, regardless of health or age, can easily learn.

Cost: $150. Advance Preregistration with payment required.

2009 - State of the Vault Address.

Happy (Belated) New Year b-movie fans! My sincerest apologies for being reclusive lately; I had a ton of stuff planned for the site this past Christmas and New Year's Eve, but things didn't quite pan out, mainly because of that computer virus fiasco that I experienced. (See previous posts for more info on that.)

But now is a new year and as always I have made a series of resolutions that I would love to keep, but probably won't. Among them (right by "lose weight, feel great" and "curb impulsive spending and be more fiscally responsible") is a resolution to keep the B-Movie Film Vault updated on a more frequent basis. It's something I always want to do, but fail to deliver on, but I feel that I can definitely do it if I can summon up a little (i.e. a lot) more discipline.

Here are some updates you can (hopefully) look forward to this month:

• I'll be updating my review for "My Bloody Valentine," mainly the DVD review section, as soon as I get my new UNCUT special edition DVD of the film in the mail. I also plan on adding screenshots to flesh out the review as well.

• Hell or high water, I'm going to see the new "My Bloody Valentine in 3-D," so don't be too surprised to see a capsule review for that pop up on the site.

• The January 2009 Genre Watch will be showing up sometime next week.

• The "Wanted on DVD" section for the site was started and never completed. I think I'll be getting that polished up and uploaded soon.

• Finally, expect a new review or two to pop up on the site, most likely for "The Ghouligans! Super Show" and "Godmonster of Indian Flats." I may even go back and fix up an older review from the ancient Vault archives and get it posted as well. Guess we'll all just have to wait on see on that.

Traffic has faltered a bit at the Vault, but has pretty much remained consistent and for some reason, the Forum is still as quiet and desolate as it was when I started it a few years back. I'm keeping the Forum going (it is an excellent way to post movie news after all) and I plan on restarting my efforts to upgrade its software to the latest version of YaBB. (Besides better spam protection, the new software upgrade offers a multitude of great features that my forum currently lacks.)

In closing, the Vault is doing fine and I thank everyone who keeps swinging by to check for new updates. I assure you that your repeated visitations have not been in vain, there will be new stuff on the site SOON!

Well it's off to work for me, so take care fellow cult movie fanatics! Keep fighting the good fight!