The description says it all and it's about time such a movie came to be! For every fan of the slasher genre, including myself, this is a wish come true. To date there has only ever been one attempt at a slasher monster mash by a major studio and that was "Freddy vs. Jason" released in 2003. This brought the two slasher icons that dominated the 80s, Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees together for an epic showdown. I remember seeing lines of adolescents around the block upon the day of its theatrical release, and I can't say I blame them, because it was so awesome to finally see two different slasher monsters sharing the big screen together. In spite its success however; no major studio has made any further attempts to make a new slasher monster mash. Why is that I ask of everyone? There are plenty of icons as of now to choose from and the possibilities are endless. Until the fateful day arrives when a studio sees fit to take a stand, I have one of my favorite Blinky Production shorts to enjoy; "The Nightmare Ends on Halloween".
This short film is composed of two parts. The first was released in 2004 as one of Chris R. Notarile's earliest projects. For his early filmmaking standards, it's truly impressive. Immediately you are put into the mood as Freddy Krueger of "Nightmare on Elm Street" (played then by Richard Myles) presents a monologue about his evil scheme. The opening is akin to the "Freddy Vs. Jason" when Freddy reveals his plan for Jason Voorhees. This time however, it's Michael Myers (played by Joe Davis) of "Halloween" that Freddy plans to wield as his weapon. As far as plot goes there isn't much to talk about, but that was never the purpose of the slasher genre's establishment. It's a genre that was made solely for good horrific fun and that's exactly what Notraile has in store for his fortunate viewers. It was great enough seeing Michael Myers and Freddy Krueger fight to the death, but for the finale we're given not one, but three more famous slasher icons, including Jason Voorhees of "Friday the 13th", Leatherface, of "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" and Pinhead of "Hellraiser". That's unbelievable! The lighting was well done, the sets were well selected, the acting was well performed, the costumes and makeup were well made, and the pacing was well arranged. It's a satisfying slasher flick! On it's own the first part was an enjoyable treat and a sequel didn't seem necessary. Little did I realize the surprise that awaited me!
Seven years would pass before Part II was made. The first part was already one of my favorite Blinky shorts, so naturally I was stoked upon hearing the exciting news. In most cases, movie sequels don't tend to have the same appeal as the original. Such is not the case when it comes to Blinky Productions. Chris R. Notraile's filmmaking skills have progressed a great deal with time and it shows in "Nightmare Ends on Halloween Part II". The pacing is quicker and there is more focus on action than plot development, but I believe Part I has that covered. As far as quality goes, Part II is superior in every aspect to its predecessor. It continues directly where the first part left off with a refreshing new cast. Including Hector De La Rosa and Jerry Todisco as Jason Voorhees, Anthony Palmisano as Leatherface, Josh Rothman as Michael Myers, and Kevin Lennon as Pinhead. Chris R. Notarile is the only returning cast member as the voice of Pinhead, which is great for the character and captures the essence of Doug Bradley in "Hellraiser". For me however, the main attraction was Roberto Lombardi as the dream demon himself Freddy Krueger, who is absolutely perfect for the role. He is both funny and terrifying, exactly as Freddy should be. A perfectly bended comedic horror! He also bears an uncanny resemblance to Robert Englund, the actor who portrayed Wes Craven's famous icon throughout the whole of the "Nightmare on Elm Street" franchise. Any fan of Englund has got to love Roberto Lombardi's performance. Simply Outstanding! In the recent "Nightmare on Elm Street" remake, Jackie Earle Haley played Freddy. While a decent choice he didn't have the same appeal as Robert Englund. If Lombardi was casted, it definitely would have been more true to the original Wes Craven film and it would no doubt have been a more enjoyable experience. Roberto Lombardi was also the star of Notarile's "Krueger: A Tale From Elm Street" which I highly recommend giving a watch as well. Lombardi has the makings of an excellent villainous actor! How does Chris R. Notarile keep finding all these talented people I wonder? The rest of the cast does a great job in capturing the terrifying essence of the silent slasher icons. They have no dialogue and rely solely on menacing presence, which is executed just right. Again there is little to explain as far as plot goes, but the slasher icons have a spectacular battle that I could never tire of watching. I loved the pacing, the editing, the cinematography, and the sets reflected the original movies where the characters originated. It wraps up with a satisfying conclusion that resolves the story.
If you haven't seen it already it, check it out! It's good horrific fun and one of my favorite films of Blinky Productions. "The Nightmare Ends on Halloween" is one hell of a ride!
