What’s Coming this Month: February 2023

We made it through January and here we are in February. While February can be sleepy for film releases, there is plenty in store this month, especially on streaming services. There are only two non-new releases (at least in wide release) on this list of what’s coming this month. There are highlights this month–such as Cocaine Bear–and there are questionable releases. However, it’s worth noting what is coming out and when. Check it out below.

Coming to Theaters

February 3rd: Knock at the Cabin

February Horror 2023

The latest M. Night Shyamalan film is upon us as of today. Its trailer insists it will keep you guessing, but does that have to be said for his films? Known for their iconic twists, I don’t think so. With a star-studded cast, notably the return of Rupert Grint to the silver screen, the performances will carry this film. However, I haven’t gotten my hopes up for a Shyamalan film in a while, so I don’t know how this one is going to go. February is a dry month for films anyways, so this might be your best option.

February 15th: winnie The Pooh: Blood and Honey

Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey Trailer, Cast & Everything We Know So Far

Oh boy. The stories of A.A. Milne have recently become public domain, and Disney doesn’t fully own the rights. Within that loophole came this film, which will wreak havoc on us in a few weeks’ time. I don’t really like having my childhood messed with in this way, so I don’t know what to say about it all. However, I hope it delivers on camp and ridiculousness, because there’s no way to make a serious film with this concept and if they try, it’s not going to go well. I am terrified and horrified–Pooh Bear would never.

February 24th: Cocaine Bear

Cocaine Bear - Rotten Tomatoes

Speaking of bears-that-would-never, I am excited for this film. Elizabeth Banks is pulling the reigns for this creature feature, in which a drug fueled incident turns an unassuming bear into an apex predator. While the real story it is based on is quite sad, it seems like we’re going to lean into the ridiculousness by personifying the bear and framing it as a horror comedy from the get-go. It looks violent, it looks funny, and it looks absurd. I’m here for it and its coked-up nonsense.

Coming to Streaming

February 1st: Cooties on HBO MAx

Cooties (2014) - IMDb

This is not a new release; however, it is one that was unsung. Cooties is a legitimately funny zombie film that is oriented around children. I assume that it didn’t reach peak popularity due to the implied violence towards children, however they’re chicken-nugget-turned zombies. Kick back, have fun and laugh at this amazing ensemble cast playing distressed elementary school teachers that end up in a deadly mess.

February 2nd: Skinamarink on Shudder

How 'Skinamarink' Became the Internet's New Horror Movie Obsession - Variety

This was mentioned in my last monthly lineup, but it is to be noted that it is finally getting its streaming release. This experimental indie horror is still making waves, and its recent box office success with its limited release is a feat in its own. Whether it is up your alley or not, it is impossible to deny that this is revolutionary for indie horror and how word-of-mouth can get you so far, especially on social media. Boo for pirating in its early stages, but yay for a wide release after so much anticipation.

February 9th: Piggy on Hulu

Piggy February Hulu

This film made waves in the festival circuit. The Spanish horror-thriller is coming to Hulu early this month. It is a film that focuses on obesity and bullying and has a morally tricky story at its core. When an overweight teen witnesses her regular bullies snatched up by a kidnapper, will she admit what she saw or protect the person that put a cease to her daily torment? It’s a puzzling dilemma that garners moral questions and sympathy. It’s uncomfortable and unruly, much like high school in general.

February 14th: Halloween Ends on Amazon Prime

Halloween Ends' on Amazon this February

It is not jailed on Peacock anymore. Halloween Ends is coming to Amazon Prime. While this film is incredibly disappointing, it is worth watching to receive closure on this new trilogy and the overarching legacy of Halloween in general. It might be a hate-viewing, but it’s a viewing that is included in a service you already pay for. Therefore, it will hopefully continue the message of not wanting any more Halloween films. We’ll see.

February 22nd: The Strays on Netflix

The Strays February Horror

This film looks interesting and if you’re still around after the Netflix crackdown, it should be at the top of your list to check out. It looks as if Jordan Peele and Ari Aster collaborated on a movie, which is intriguing and terrifying, nonetheless. However, the trailer and synopsis didn’t make it clear what this is necessarily about–not a bad thing but leaves expectations a little muddled. Keep an eye out for this when it drops.


What’s NExt

Next post is going to be discussing the third episode of The Last of Us and how we’re getting some amazing queer love stories from the horror genre. Also, as it is Black History Month, I plan on also going into the convoluted and complicated history the horror genre has in regard to tropes and lack of representation and how it’s improving drastically. As for day-to-day stuff, TikTok has been popping off with recent videos and discussions about remakes, online horror and more, so be sure to check that out.

Anyways, thanks for spelunking this void with me. If you’re new to the Void of Celluloid, welcome. Feel free to spelunk some other voids while you’re here and follow me on other platforms by clicking the buttons below. We post regularly and stay up to date about what’s going on in horror today, reflect on what went on yesterday, and plan for a better, horror filled tomorrow. See ya next time.

Spelunk Into the 31 Days of Horror: ’22 Edition

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Mamma Mia, here we go again! Welcome to the Void of Celluloid and we are continuing the daily movie marathon tradition. This time, we have only two repeats from last year. Deeper cuts, recent releases–we’re pulling out all the stops. If you’re looking for a more traditional 31 Days of Horror, check out the first iteration here. Now, here at The Void of Celluloid, we think every night could be a special movie night. Therefore, each of these will have a beverage and a snack paired with them as well as a double feature to keep the party rolling.

Above is the calendar for the month. This year is going to work just like last year–3 weeks and then the final 10 days. The foundation is set, it’s now time to kick it off with days one through seven.

October 1st: X (2022)

Pearl: Everything We Know So Far About Ti West's X Prequel

We’re kicking off the month with a bloody good time. X is a film that came out in 2022 and marks Ti West’s triumphant return after a hiatus. Everyone delivers in this film, and it is a great homage to the classic slasher. Packed full of great performances–notably Mia Goth with her two roles. The prequel, Pearl, just released mid-September, so why not get caught up?

It’s obvious to pair this one with a Pornstar martini (a virgin one can be found here). Then, let’s take it all the way back to the 70s with these pineapple meatballs fit for a cocktail party back then. To keep up with the vintage blood, guts and gore, the double feature has to be The Texas Chain Saw Massacre–the brutality of X is up to par with this classic.

You can rent X here on Amazon Video or add it to your physical collection here. Already a fan? Check out the Redbubble design designed by yours truly and immortalize Maxine’s wise mantra.

October 2nd: The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)

Watch The Exorcism of Emily Rose | Netflix

This 2005 horror-film-meets-court-drama is rich with atmosphere. Especially with its real-life inspiration, The Exorcism of Emily Rose can be quite a terrifying watch. Most notably, this is Scott Derrickson’s first flick–his newest also made the list. Stellar acting by everyone involved, it’s a captivating and somewhat emotional tale of possession being brought up in court for the first time in order to excuse what seems to be cruel and unusual punishment. Definitely a brain scratcher.

For this film, I pair up with a cocktail fit for a pre-Lent celebration: the Sazerac. For the non-drinkers, choose something as red as blood with this Non-Alcoholic Mardi Gras Punch. As far as food goes, I’m going to recommend something you can spread on crackers such as this Tuscan Spread so you pretend you’re taking communion every time something unholy happens on screen. To keep up with the court drama, pair this one with The Conjuring III: The Devil Made Me Do It.

You can rent The Exorcism of Emily Rose on Amazon Video or contribute to your physical collection here. Ever wanted a sticker for this film? Check out my custom design on Redbubble.

October 3rd: Would You Rather? (2012)

Would You Rather – Spoiler Alert

I did title them ‘Malicious Mondays’ for a reason. This IFC Midnight flick is grisly and gruesome if that is more your speed. Iris, played by Brittany Snow, joins a deadly dinner party in which fatal ‘Would You Rather’ style games in order to win a large sum of money. In Iris’ case, it’s to pay for her brother’s experimental treatment for his terminal disease. A few twists, a couple turns, and a shocker of an ending is guaranteed to entertain.

There is a scene in this that I cannot physically watch that has to do with an eyeball–however, snacks can distract from the brutality. Match the dinner party vibes with this Ham and Cheese Feuilleté which is something that both the refined palate and the picky eater can enjoy. Break out the ice pick and crush some ice for this cocktail appropriately named The Wild Ruffian (sub cognac for iced black tea for a virgin drink). As for the double feature, lighten it up with another twisty, turn-y film April Fools’ Day.

You can rent Would You Rather? on Amazon Video and purchase it here to support the physical media movement. Oh yeah, I made a design for this film too. Check it out on Redbubble (tw: razor blade).

October 4th: Cujo (1983)

Cujo (1983) | MUBI

Oh, poor Cujo. This is a terrifying and rather heartbreaking tale of a good boy who gets bitten by a bat and transmitted with rabies. This causes the dog to go on a rampage–one chock full of bloodlust. With a killer performance by Dee Wallace trying to protect her son from the man’s-best-killer, this is one of the Stephen King adaptations you shouldn’t miss. Just make sure to hug your pups super tight after viewing.

Well, it’s better to drink foamy drinks than be foaming at the mouth. You could go with the non-alcoholic Citrus Fizz or the classic Gin Fizz to get that foamy texture to a drink. As for food, treat yourself (and perhaps a few pieces to the dog) with these Garlic Butter Steak Bites. As for a second film, Stephen King stories are like a craving as in only one is not enough. Therefore, go with the chilling adaptation of Pet Sematary that came out the same year as Cujo.

You can rent Cujo on Amazon Video and if you’re looking to add to your Stephen King Blu-Ray collection, you can find that here. This Redbubble design can be ordered as a pet bandana, so if you and your pet want to share your sympathies to the Saint Bernard, be my guest.

OCtober 5th: Ready or not (2019)

Horror

This film has been one of my favorites in the recent years. I am a sucker for a horror-comedy and this film knocks it out of the park. Jarring, atmospheric and comedy pairing beautifully with violence, it’s a must watch and guaranteed to get at least one laugh out of you. Therefore, it has rightfully earned its place this year on the calendar. Excellent performances all around, however Samara Weaving delivers as our scream queen with one of the most bloodcurdling screams I’ve ever heard.

You can’t toast to the groom and bride without a little champagne. Try out the Champagne Cocktail for a tastier twist to the bubbly beverage or sub in this virgin Pink Champagne Mocktail for a pop of color (and honestly, more flavor). Lean more into the wedding style of this movie with these Bacon Wrapped Scallops or lean more into the game night flair with these Soft Pretzel Bites. As for double features, play another round with You’re Next–because we love to see strong women kicking ass.

You can rent Ready or Not on Amazon Video or add it to your Blu-Ray collection here. Looking for a minimalistic ode to this film? Check out my design.

October 6th: Carrie (1976)

Horror

As Fleabag would say, my favorite period piece. Carrie is the second King adaptation to make this week, but he has so many stories that a repeat is bound to happen. Carrie White is one of horror’s most tragic figures and even when she’s the cause of death and destruction, you can’t help but feel deeply for her. On another hand, her mother is one of the evilest villains put to screen. With brilliant performances from Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie, this one is a classic through and through.

Want to pretend someone spiked the punch at your prom but in the safety in your own home? Try out this Rum Punch. If you would rather have good, clean fun, you can try out this fruit punch instead. In regard to food, get a bit of the pig with the heat with these Mini Jalapeno Popper Turnovers, a finger food fit for a high school prom. As for the double feature, go from a victim going insane to the insane victimizing herself with another King tale: Misery.

You can rent Carrie on Amazon Video or if it wasn’t the establisher to your King DVD collection, make it right by purchasing it here. Appreciate a good Fleabag reference tied in with a Carrie design? Check it out here.

October 7th: House of Wax (1953)

Horror

Ending the week with a classic–or Paris Hilton if you prefer the remake. Despite preferences, anyone could benefit from a good dose of Vincent Price. He is a horror legend, and House of Wax showcases him as well as one helluva story. Still having its creepy moments to this day, House of Wax is a legendary watch both in first and repeat viewings. This film was one of the pioneers as well for 3D technology in film and marketed heavily on the fact that it was in 3D. All physical formats of this film remain to have a 3D option to this day.

The 1950s was the introduction of the legendary tiki-style cocktails we are familiar with today. Much like original things being ruined by reiterations (the 2005 House of Wax isn’t terrible, just cringe), that’s what happened to the glorious Mai Tai. Therefore, go drink yourself a real one and learn some history on the way. If you want something non-alcoholic, opt for the virgin version. Make something glazy to emulate the wax with this lovely, perfect-for-fall spiced carrot cake, because we need a sweet treat from time to time. The spices will pair nice with those tiki cocktails. Of course, the double feature is House on Haunted Hill, as we always need more Vincent Price in our lives (the Rifftrax is great on this one too).

You can rent House of Wax on Amazon Video or own it (and its 3D forms) here. I made a trippy little design to go with this one as well, casual fan or fanatic.

Coming Up Next…

So, there’s the first week of the 31 Days of Horror here on The Void of Celluloid. Hopefully this spawned some ideas on what to make for any upcoming Halloween celebrations. For those that like to go hard and celebrate every day like me, go for it–I have given you the tools. Coming up next is Week 2, Week 3, and The Final Ten Days which will be linked respectively once published.

Thanks for checking us out here on The Void of Celluloid. If you’re a returning spelunker, welcome back. If you’re new, welcome. We post regularly and jump into the many voids that the horror genre presents and break down what is special and unique about the genre. You can find custom horror designs here at TVOC’s Redbubble shop and the rest of the socials are linked on the buttons down below. Follow us if you too believe that horror should be more respected than it is and are a horror fanatic anyways.