Would you invite a stranger to sleep inside your home? Most parents would say no, and yet countless individuals do exactly that through vacation rental apps. This modern trend has spawned a lucrative side hustle, but it also introduces potential risks. Filmmaker Richard Halpern recognized the inherent horror in this concept and used it as inspiration for his movie, “Suburban Nightmare.” We interviewed Richard to gain insight into the creative process behind this intriguing film.
Richard Halpern: Suburban Nightmare is about a family that is living in tough times who feel the need to rent out an extra room in their home for additional income. Unbeknown to them this character is a dangerous stalker who is pursuing their daughter online from afar.
Richard Halpern: Yes. There have been many stories of death and violence that have occured in rental share communities. If you google Airbnb murder you will see what I mean. It’s also inspired by a situation that happened to me.
I rented an Airbnb in San Diego in a million dollar home and the family had a young mother and father with two toddler daughters. They gave me free access to their home andI was stunned any reasonable parent would allow this. This moment inspired this movie.
Richard Halpern: First as always is to be entertained. Thrilled. Held in suspense. While also questioning how the gig sharing economy can be potentially dangerous.
Richard Halpern: Shooting in pretty much one location. While a family with two children living there.
Richard Halpern: I am inspired by great 70s grindhouse movies that do not have optimistic endings. Like Texas chainsaw massacre or Last House on the Left. I like to be different. Unpredictable. Dark. Also setting up an even more grueling sequel.
Richard Halpern: Because people can relate to it. Connect to it. Most people live their lives in the suburbs. So for them the thriller and realism is close to home.
Richard Halpern: I loved filming the shed scene with the two leads. It was originally set outside but it was raining hail at night. So we needed to change it up. We ran to a local target to by Xmas lights to enhance the scene and the performances were fantastic.
Sexo y Tortillas stands as a groundbreaking cinematic work that has shattered boundaries. Director Priscilla Alvarez crafted a daring film that deals with a theme largely neglected by the film industry – the crucial importance of embracing female sexuality. We had the privilege of speaking with Priscilla, who shared insights into the creation of this […]
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The film Rock, Paper, Scissors takes a common childhood game and twists it into a darker tale. This thriller directed by Doug Bollinger follows a couple who enact revenge on their enemies, testing the boundaries of their relationship. We sat down with Bollinger to discuss the inspiration behind the film’s title and his process for […]
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The age of physical media rentals has come to an end, replaced by the convenience of digital streaming. While this new era may be more accessible, there was a certain magic to visiting a brick-and-mortar movie rental store that is now lost. Filmmaker Chad Campbell has managed to capture the nostalgia and sense of mourning […]
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Black Mirror isn’t the only story taking a hard look at how technology is messing with society. Filmmaker Fernando Tosetti is also examining our relationship to technology with his short film, ‘The Blue Room’. Despite working with little resources, he manages to create an engrossing story that delivers an eerily relevant message in under 12 […]
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Superman has been a career-defining role for many actors, dating back to Christopher Reeve’s iconic portrayal. Now, David Corenswet steps into the cape as the latest actor to embody the Man of Steel. But wait, who’s this David guy? Where on Earth (or beyond) did he come from? Get ready because we’re about to take […]
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Are you in the mood for a chillingly good time but not quite ready to dive under the covers at the slightest creak of a floorboard? Then you’re in luck! Our carefully curated selection keeps the thrill without sending the chills down your spine. Prepare to enter the realm of suspense and psychological twists with […]
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Phantom of the Opera meets K-pop? Now that’s a mash-up we didn’t know we needed! “Phantom: The Musical” is coming onto the scene, giving the classic tale a fresh story. This adaptation combines the opera with cinematic elements to create a distinct experience. To better understand this unique production, we reached out to Eddie Aronoff, […]
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In the heart of Los Angeles, where cultures collide and dreams are forged, a young Asian American director is leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. Hon Hoang, a Vietnamese American artist armed with a psychology degree from UCLA, wields his camera like a poet’s pen, capturing the profound depths of the human experience […]
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Family has a lot of different meanings. It can transcend blood and forge a bond through commitment along with choice. Kenneth R. Frank, a writer and director, delves into this profound concept through his feature film, Family Obligations. With a desire to explore the intricacies of familial obligations, he invites us on a journey of […]
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Oh man, remember that little dude from Life of Pi? The one stranded on that lifeboat with the tiger? Well, let me tell you, that kid is all grown up now and still as talented (if not more!) as he was then. Suraj Sharma, the former child star, is now in his 30s. Let’s catch […]
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