Category: Entertainment News

World Premiere Spotlight: Lemonade Blessing at Tribeca 2025

Jake Ryan in Chris Merola’s Lemonade Blessing. Photo: Submarine Entertainment, used with permission.

Spotlight on Tribeca Film Festival 2025

The Tribeca Film Festival, founded in 2002 by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff, celebrates storytelling in all its forms. Held annually in New York City, the festival showcases a diverse range of films—from independent features and documentaries to immersive experiences and short films.

Originally created to help revitalize Lower Manhattan after 9/11, Tribeca has since grown into a major cultural event. In addition to film screenings, the festival features industry panels, interactive media, and cutting-edge virtual reality. It offers a platform for both emerging voices and established filmmakers, fostering creativity, conversation, and community across the global film landscape.

📅 This year’s festival runs from June 4 through June 15, 2025.

World Premiere: Lemonade Blessing

One of the standout selections in the US Narrative Competition is the world premiere of Lemonade Blessing, a feature film directed by Chris Merola, a native New Yorker and recent graduate of USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. This marks Merola’s feature directorial debut. (EG-PR, 2025)

🎬 About the Film

Title: Lemonade Blessing
Running Time: 100 minutes
Language: English
Country: USA
Genre: Drama

🎭 Cast

Jake Ryan, Jeanine Serralles, Skye Alyssa Friedman, Miles J. Harvey, Michael Oloyede, Todd Gearhart, Keith William Richards

🎥 Producers

Chris Merola, Raza Rizvi, Aruba Sülzana, Samuel Ashurov

📖 Synopsis

Freshly tossed into a private Catholic high school by his devout mother, John (Jake Ryan) falls head over heels for a devious classmate who’s ready to push his faith—and morals—to the brink. What unfolds is a series of increasingly uncomfortable acts, all in the name of love.

🎟 Public Screening Schedule

DateTimeVenueLocation
Thursday, June 57:15 p.m.SVA2 – BeatriceSVA Theater, 333 West 23rd Street
Friday, June 69:00 p.m.VEC-04Village East Cinemas, 181-189 2nd Avenue
Saturday, June 146:00 p.m.VEC-04Village East Cinemas, 181-189 2nd Avenue
Sunday, June 1511:15 a.m.VEC-02Village East Cinemas, 181-189 2nd Avenue

🔗 Buy Tickets Here

Chris Merola is a writer and filmmaker from Long Island, New York. Lemonade Blessing is his first feature film.

Pride, Poolside, and Panoramic Views: Celebrate Pride Month at Thompson San Antonio

Celebrate Pride in style at Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.

Celebrate Pride Month in Style at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 🌈

This Pride Month, there’s no need to travel far to enjoy a vibrant and luxurious escape — Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk offers the ultimate staycation right in the heart of the city. (Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, 2025)

Perfectly located along the iconic San Antonio River Walk and just steps away from the largest Pride parade in South Texas (happening June 28), the hotel puts you right at the center of the action.

🌟 Pride Package Perks

Available throughout June, Thompson’s Pride Package includes a complimentary Pride-themed cocktail for guests who book using promo code PRIDE — the perfect festive touch to kick off your celebration.

☀️ Stay, Lounge, Celebrate

Whether you’re:

  • Lounging poolside on the open-air Cenote Pool Deck with craft cocktails and luxury cabanas,
  • Or soaking in panoramic views from the chic rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters,

Thompson San Antonio delivers the perfect blend of bold energy and elevated comfort. Add in stylish accommodations and live entertainment throughout the month, and this hotel becomes more than just a place to stay — it’s a full-fledged Pride Month destination.

🎉 Pride Kick-Off Celebration at The Moon’s Daughters

Start the month with a bang at the Pride Kick-Off Celebration, hosted at the hotel’s stunning rooftop venue:

📍 Location: The Moon’s Daughters Rooftop
🗓️ Date: Saturday, May 31
🕗 Time: 9:30 p.m.

Taking place after the Pride River Parade, this high-energy event will feature:

  • Signature craft cocktails
  • Sweeping skyline views
  • A vibrant drag and performance showcase spotlighting standout local LGBTQ+ talent

It’s the ultimate way to toast the season of love, pride, and community — all without leaving San Antonio.

Celebrate local. Celebrate loud. Celebrate Pride — Thompson-style. 🏳️‍🌈

Pride-themed cocktail. Photo: Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk, used with permission.

Grayson Jenkins Finds His Voice on ‘Hard Heart to Hold’ and Forthcoming Album Country Parables

Grayson Jenkins leans into the rock side of country with new song and video. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Grayson Jenkins Unveils New Single “Hard Heart to Hold” Ahead of Forthcoming Album Country Parables

Kentucky-born country artist and songwriter Grayson Jenkins has released his new single “Hard Heart to Hold,” an anthemic country-rock track from his upcoming album Country Parables, set to release everywhere on July 25. (Covered Bridge Creative Co-op, 2025)

The single is paired with a live performance music video, filmed at Jenkins’ 2025 headlining show at The Burl in Lexington, KY—the very venue that inspired the song’s creation.

A Rising Voice in the Appalachian Country Scene

“Hard Heart to Hold” follows a string of successful releases, including:

  • “Nobody’s Stopping You Anyhow” (feat. Brit Taylor), featured on Spotify’s All New Country playlist
  • “Taxes & Time”
  • “Good Times Go” (feat. Pony Bradshaw), highlighted by The Bluegrass Situation and Whiskey Riff

Fans can watch the video, stream the new single, and pre-order vinyl and merch online.

A “Hillbilly Springsteen” Sound

Jenkins’ bandmates jokingly describe “Hard Heart to Hold” as sounding like a “hillbilly Springsteen”—a track driven by pulsing drums and heavy guitars, elevating Jenkins’ vocals and vivid storytelling.

Jenkins views the song as a reflection of both his influences and his ongoing sonic evolution.

Telling Stories from the Heart of Kentucky

Lyrically, the track tells the story of a young woman navigating early adulthood and finding comfort in the Lexington music scene—a nod to the thriving musical culture of Kentucky and the greater Appalachian region.

Nearly a Decade on the Road

Grayson Jenkins is no newcomer. With nearly ten years in the music industry, his career has weathered:

  • The ups and downs of indie artistry
  • A global pandemic
  • Over 250,000 miles touring across the US, Canada, and Europe

Raised on a small farm in Muhlenberg County, KY—yes, that Muhlenberg County from John Prine’s “Paradise”—Jenkins carries with him a strong work ethic and resourcefulness that continues to shape his music and career.

Country Parables: Jenkins’ Most Ambitious Work Yet

Now in his 30s, Jenkins returns with Country Parables—a ten-track LP that marks his most comprehensive and mature work to date. The album combines the lyrical depth fans have come to expect with a fully realized sonic palette that Jenkins has long been chasing.

Crafted by a Powerhouse Team

To bring this album to life, Jenkins teamed up with frequent collaborator and touring partner Pony Bradshaw to co-produce the record. The album was recorded at Fellowship Hall Sound in Little Rock, AR, with a team of acclaimed musicians, including:

  • Paddy Ryan (Parker Millsap, John Fullbright)
  • Jesse Aycock (JR Carroll, John Moreland)
  • Aaron Boehler (Wilderado)
  • Fats Kaplin (Jack White, John Prine)

Collaborations on the album include Brit Taylor, Madelyn Baier, and Pony Bradshaw, with two tracks co-written by Nashville veteran Pat McLaughlin (John Prine, Bahamas).

With Country Parables, Grayson Jenkins offers a heartfelt, roots-driven collection that further cements his place in the next wave of Americana storytellers.

Country Parables tracklist:

1.Old Trails
2.Hard Heart to Hold
3.Nobody’s Stopping You Anyhow (feat. Brit Taylor)
4.Grand Slam
5.Scarecrow
6.Taxes & Time
7.Good Times Go (feat. Pony Bradshaw)
8.From Now On
9.Calling Out Your Name (feat. Madelyn Baier)
10.Country Parables

“But beyond the smoky bars and days out on the farm, Jenkins embodies one of Country’s more abstract, yet most important qualities: its philosophical soul.”

— American Songwriter

“In case you aren’t familiar with Grayson Jenkins’ prior work, the Muhlenburg County, KY native aptly follows in the footsteps of John Prine and all of the other folk and country troubadours before him who forged their career on the strength of clever lyricism and truthfully authentic storytelling.”

— Whiskey Riff

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‘Finding Nicole’: A True Story of Survival, Strength, and Justice

‘Finding Nicole’ is available to rent or purchase. Photo: Fandango

“Finding Nicole: A True Story of Love, Loss, Betrayal, Fear, and Hope”

By Nicole Beverly

In her powerful memoir, Finding Nicole: A True Story of Love, Loss, Betrayal, Fear, and Hope, author and advocate Nicole Beverly shares an unflinching, deeply personal account of her journey from domestic violence victim to survivor—and ultimately, to warrior. (Amazon, 2025)

The Cycle of Abuse

Nicole met her ex-husband in college, and over the course of a decade, found herself trapped in a progressively abusive and violent relationship. Like so many victims, she stayed for a complex mix of reasons: love, financial dependency, her children, and fear. In 2009, she finally left—but the danger didn’t end there.

For more than two years after leaving, Nicole endured relentless stalking, threats, and harassment. Her powerful victim impact statement at his sentencing eventually led to her ex-husband’s conviction for stalking. Yet even behind bars, he continued to pose a lethal threat—attempting to hire inmates to kill Nicole and their children.

A System That Failed Her

Nicole’s story also sheds light on the failures of the criminal justice system. Due to errors by law enforcement, breakdowns in communication, and a hesitant prosecutor, her abuser was almost released despite these credible threats. In a desperate bid to protect her family, Nicole even considered identity change—only to discover how difficult it would be to start over without a past.

Fighting Back—and Winning

Instead of disappearing, Nicole chose to fight. She turned to social media to share her story and rallied support from family, friends, fellow survivors, and strangers across the globe. In just a few weeks, her plea for justice went viral.

Thanks to public pressure, the Attorney General of Michigan took on her case. After 13 months, multiple court hearings, and unwavering courage, Nicole’s abuser was found guilty of new charges and sentenced to a longer prison term—giving Nicole and her children some much-needed peace.

A Guide for Survivors

Nicole’s book doesn’t end with her story. In its final chapters, Finding Nicole serves as a guidebook for survivors of domestic violence, stalking, and toxic relationships. With practical advice and heartfelt encouragement, she offers tools to help others leave safely, reclaim hope, build resilience, and ultimately, find themselves again.

A story of fierce determination and the power of collective voices, “Finding Nicole” is a must-read. It’s not just a memoir—it’s a call to action for justice, awareness, and unwavering support for survivors everywhere. The film adaptation is available to rent or purchase on YouTube, Google Play Movie, Fandango at Home, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.

Movie Review: Finding Nicole — A Powerful Story of Survival and Strength

If you’re looking for a film that will leave a lasting impression and stir your soul, Finding Nicole is a must-watch. Based on the true story of Nicole Beverly, this film chronicles her harrowing journey through domestic abuse and her courageous fight to protect her children and reclaim her life.

Nicole’s story has been featured on Inside Evil with Chris Cuomo, Til Death Do Us Part, and in her top-selling book of the same name. The movie adaptation does a remarkable job of bringing her experiences to life with authenticity and emotional depth. Rather than sensationalizing the violence, the film focuses on the psychological impact of abuse and the long road to healing.

Kaiti Wallen delivers a standout performance, capturing Nicole’s quiet strength and vulnerability. Through gripping courtroom scenes and haunting flashbacks, we witness not only the terror Nicole endured but also her unwavering determination to break free.

Finding Nicole is more than just a film—it’s a powerful statement about resilience, justice, and hope. It’s an emotional, necessary watch that sheds light on the very real issue of domestic violence and the courage it takes to survive it. This is storytelling with purpose.

Cast

Kaiti Wallen – Kaiti Wallen
Mari G. – Warren Beverly
Sean Whalen – Cameron Banks
Shawntay Dalon – Shonda Wright, Esq
Richard Tyson – Judge Carter

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this film and received a screener link. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Monsters, Love, and Survival: Inside Alec Gillis’ Indie Creature-Feature ‘Wellwood’

Wellwood is available on Video On Demand. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Wellwood: Creature Effects Legend Alec Gillis Returns to His Indie Roots

Renowned creature effects artist Alec Gillis—known for his groundbreaking work on the Alien and Predator franchises, Starship Troopers, and most recently Smile 2—is returning to his independent film roots with Wellwood, a new creature-feature produced under his company Pro Machina, Inc. (Roberson Public Relations, 2025)

Alec began his career working with low-budget film icon Roger Corman and has long been an advocate for the art of practical effects. His latest venture, Wellwood, embraces that passion. Produced through Pro Machina, a studio focused on practical effects-heavy, lower-budget films, Wellwood showcases the craftsmanship and creativity that have become Alec’s hallmark.

Now Available on VOD

Wellwood, executive produced by Alec Gillis, was released in April 2025 by Uncork’d Entertainment and is now available on all major video-on-demand platforms, including streaming, satellite, and cable.

Practical Effects at the Forefront

True to Gillis’ legacy, every creature and corpse in Wellwood was built using practical effects. Alec and his team created the alien creature at the center of the film using rod puppets, a full-body suit, and mechanized heads. They also designed several human and animal “bodies” for key scenes—don’t worry, no animals were harmed in the making of this film!

A Legacy of Creature Creation

In addition to his work on Wellwood, Alec’s effects company Studio Gillis has recently contributed creatures and effects to major films such as Smile 2, Alien: Romulus, the upcoming I Love Boosters, and the Naked Gun reboot.

Previously, Alec co-founded Amalgamated Dynamics, Inc. (ADI), where he was nominated for an Academy Award for his work on Alien 3. Other notable credits from his ADI tenure include Death Becomes Her, Tremors, Prey, and of course, Starship Troopers.

Wellwood — A Sci-Fi Thriller With Heart

Tagline:
A man takes a dangerous creature hostage after he convinces himself the creature’s blood is the key to curing his sick wife.

Question:
In the end, what would you believe?

Synopsis

When Laura Harper (Camille Balsamo-Gillis) is diagnosed with a terminal illness, her husband Nick (Reid Collums) is driven to the edge in his search for a cure. His desperate journey leads him to an extraterrestrial being he believes can save her. But as Nick’s obsession grows, their actions draw the attention of law enforcement, including Deputy Gracie Marsh (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and the steadfast Sheriff Bradley (Lance E. Nichols). What follows is a harrowing exploration of love, belief, and the consequences of crossing the line.

Meet the Filmmakers

  • Director: Eliza Hooper
  • Producers: Camille Balsamo-Gillis, Reid Collums, Alec Gillis
  • Writer: Reid Collums

Wellwood is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi, practical effects, and human storytelling. Catch it now on your favorite VOD platform.

Camille Balsamo Gillis as Laura Harper in Wellwood. Courtesy photo,used with permission.

‘Suitcase Blues’: Shelby Means Hits the Road with Her Solo Debut

Shelby Means gets help from her all-star friends for a heartfelt road song, “Suitcase Blues.” It’s the latest single from the Maya de Vitry-produced self-titled solo debut. Photo: Hunter McRae, used with permission.

Shelby Means Packs Up the “Suitcase Blues” and Heads Down a New Road

“I had driven out of Nashville hundreds of times as a touring musician, but this time I was packed up and moving to a different city,” says songwriter, singer, and bassist Shelby Means.

Known for her dynamic work with world-class string bands like Della Mae and the GRAMMY-winning Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Means is now stepping into the spotlight with her debut solo album, Shelby Means. The bittersweet memory of leaving Nashville is captured in her latest single “Suitcase Blues.” (IV-PR, 2025)

Backed by an all-star lineup—Billy Strings on harmony vocals, along with Bryan Sutton, Michael Cleveland, Ron Block, and Sam Bush—the track offers a poignant twist on the classic road song.

“Bryan, Michael, Ron, and Sam brought incredible life and depth to the recording,” Means shares. “Already a very strong collaboration with the band, I was honored that Billy Strings agreed to sing harmony. His voice and energy mixing with mine and the sentiment of the song paint a vivid picture of chasing down a dream on the open road.”

Musically, “Suitcase Blues” rolls forward on a moody chord progression, its trepidation mirrored in the interplay of fiddle and banjo, with tasteful flourishes on guitar and a brief, emotive mandolin solo. The lyrics tell a story many touring musicians know all too well:

“I don’t know when I’ll be back
I gotta go with Cackalack Jack
It’s a lonesome road that I choose
Packing up my suitcase blues”

🎧 Listen now: Stream or purchase “Suitcase Blues.”
📀 Explore more music: Check out previously released singles — “Farm Girl,” “Streets of Boulder,” and “Million Reasons.”
🛒 Pre-order the full album: Shelby Means arrives May 30. Pre-order now.
💾 Want to pre-save on Spotify? Click here.

🎶 Catch Shelby Means on Tour

May 23 – WMOT Finally Friday @ 3rd and Lindsley – Nashville, TN
June 4 – The Ramkat & Gas Hill Drinking Room – Winston Salem, NC
June 6 – Midwood Guitar Studio – Charlotte, NC
June 7 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston, SC 🌟 Album Release Show
June 25 – The 5 Spot – Nashville, TN 🌟 Album Release Show
July 4 – Soundcheck Summer Music Series – Pinedale, WY
July 6 – Hot House West – Salt Lake City, UT
July 13 – Means House Concert – Laramie, WY
July 17 – Big View House Concerts – Westcliffe, CO
July 18 – Music on the Green – Telluride, CO 🎤 with Maya de Vitry
July 25 – RockyGrass – Lyons, CO 🎤 with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway
August 22 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston, SC 🎤 with Bronwyn Keith-Hynes
October 18 – Henderson Bluegrass – Henderson, NV
October 20 – WoodSongs – Lexington, KY
October 22 – Red Barn Radio – Lexington, KY

📍 See all tour dates online.

🌾 About Shelby Means

Shelby Means was born in the bluegrass of Kentucky and raised on the high plains of Wyoming. With nearly two decades of experience across bluegrass, folk, rock, Americana, and country, she’s one of the most respected upright bassists in the roots music world.

During her years in Nashville, she was a core member of the GRAMMY-nominated Della Mae, bringing her magnetic presence and deep rhythmic pocket to stages across the globe. She’s since toured nearly 30 countries as a musical diplomat and collaborated with some of the genre’s finest artists.

Now based in Charleston, SC, Means also performs with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, earning her first GRAMMY with the group’s 2023 release, City of Gold. Her accolades include multiple IBMA awards for her work with both Della Mae and Golden Highway.

With her upcoming solo debut, Means opens a new chapter—blending tradition with individuality, heartache with hope, and musicianship with soul.

From NPR to the Grand Ole Opry, Telluride, Bonnaroo, Newport Folk, and beyond, Shelby Means is forging a path that’s both grounded and boundless.

Shelby Means album cover. Courtesy photo,used with permission.

Cowtown Unplugged 2025: A Star-Studded Night of Country Music in Fort Worth

Omni Fort Worth Hotel announces 8th Annual Cowtown Unplugged: A Songwriter’s Showcase. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

🎶 Cowtown Unplugged Returns to Fort Worth This Memorial Day Weekend

The Omni Fort Worth Hotel is thrilled to announce the return of Cowtown Unplugged: A Songwriter’s Showcase, bringing a revamped and refreshed live music experience to Fort Worth. This exclusive concert event is set for Sunday, May 25, 2025, during Memorial Day Weekend, featuring a stellar lineup of country music talent. (Omni Fort Worth Hotel, 2025)

⭐ Headlining: ERNEST

Country music powerhouse and Grammy-nominated artist ERNEST will headline this year’s showcase.

  • 2X ACM Award nominee
  • Co-writer of the record-breaking hit “I Had Some Help” by Post Malone featuring Morgan Wallen
  • Eleven No. 1 hits to his name
  • New album NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE includes collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Lukas Nelson, Jelly Roll, and HARDY
  • Praised by Billboard, Los Angeles Times, and The Tennessean
  • Known for blending influences from Eminem to George Jones, redefining country music while staying true to its roots

🌟 Featured Act: Jenna Paulette

Texas-native Jenna Paulette brings a unique blend of neo-traditional country with a modern twist.

  • Recognized by CMT, Billboard, and the Grand Ole Opry
  • Brand ambassador for Justin Boots and Ranch Water
  • Debut album The Girl I Was featured on major DSP editorial playlists
  • Celebrated for her authentic cowgirl lifestyle and dynamic sound

🎤 Opening Act: Bryce Leatherwood

Bryce Leatherwood, winner of The Voice Season 22, kicks off the night with classic country vibes.

  • Known for his smooth baritone and genuine stage presence
  • Deeply rooted in traditional country with influences like George Strait and Travis Tritt
  • A rising star committed to preserving the genre’s timeless appeal

🎟️ Exclusive Hotel Packages

Make it a full getaway experience with one of Omni Fort Worth’s three premium hotel packages, crafted to elevate your Cowtown Unplugged weekend:

🥂 Platinum Package – Starting at $529

  • All Gold & Silver Package perks
  • Exclusive VIP dinner before the show
  • Artist meet-and-greet

🌄 Gold Package – Starting at $349

  • All Silver Package perks
  • Breakfast for two the morning after the show

🛌 Silver Package – Starting at $299

  • Luxurious accommodations for two (night of the show)
  • Two concert tickets to Cowtown Unplugged
  • Pre-show cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres & cash bar

🔗 Book now.
📞 Or call 817-535-6664 for more details.

🎫 New This Year: Single Concert Tickets Available!

For the first time, single concert tickets are available for those who prefer not to book an overnight stay. Enjoy the music and pre-show cocktail reception with a limited number of tickets available for $175 each (pre-tax) on Eventbrite.

🏨 About Omni Fort Worth Hotel

Located in the heart of downtown Fort Worth, the Omni blends Western spirit with casual elegance. The hotel is steps away from iconic Texas destinations like:

  • The historic Fort Worth Stockyards
  • Sundance Square entertainment district
  • The Fort Worth Zoo
  • World-class museums and cultural attractions

Experience genuine hospitality, refined comfort, and the rhythm of Texas—only at Omni Fort Worth Hotel.

🎸 Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable night of live country music. Whether you’re booking a full weekend escape or grabbing a single ticket, Cowtown Unplugged 2025 promises a night to remember.

Clowns, Cornfields, and Carnage: A Look at Horror’s Creepiest Villains

The movie adaptation of Adam Cesare’s ‘Clown in a Cornfield’ is in movie theaters now. Photo: Barnes & Noble

The Terrifying Appeal of Clowns in Horror

Clowns have long been a staple in horror movies, tapping into a deep-rooted fear known as coulrophobia. Their exaggerated makeup, forced cheerfulness, and unpredictable behavior create a sense of unease, making them perfect villains.

From It’s Pennywise to Poltergeist’s creepy toy clown, these characters distort childhood innocence into pure terror. The contrast between their playful facade and sinister intentions fascinates audiences, offering a twisted reflection of trust gone wrong. Over the years, horror clowns have evolved from quirky jump-scare devices to complex symbols of chaos—continuing to captivate moviegoers who crave both fear and fascination in equal measure.

Book Spotlight: “Clown in a Cornfield” by Adam Cesare

Bram Stoker Award Winner for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult Novel

In Adam Cesare‘s terrifying young adult debut, Quinn Maybrook finds herself caught in a battle between old and new, tradition and progress—a conflict that may cost her life. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

Quinn and her father move to the tiny, seemingly boring town of Kettle Springs, hoping for a fresh start. But since the Baypen Corn Syrup Factory shut down, the town has split in two:

  • The adults, desperate to return to a conservative past
  • The teens, eager to move on, party, and escape

Enter Frendo, the town’s former factory mascot—now a homicidal clown in a pork-pie hat. As tensions boil over, Frendo takes it upon himself to “cull the rotten crop” of local teens in a bloody attempt to restore order.

The series also includes:

  • “Frendo Lives: Clown in a Cornfield Book 2”
  • “The Church of Frendo: Clown in a Cornfield Book 3”

The movie adaptation is now in theaters nationwide.

Movie Review: Clown in a Cornfield

Clown in a Cornfield is a slasher horror film that blends old-school gore with modern teen angst, offering a chilling—if somewhat familiar—ride through rural Americana. It follows Quinn and her father as they settle in Kettle Springs, only to encounter terror when the clown-masked Frendo begins a gruesome rampage.

The movie taps into generational tension, pitting rebellious teens against a town stuck in the past. Frendo’s clown mask is genuinely unsettling, as is his menacing giggle, and the film delivers scares in everything from cornfield chases to abandoned farmhouses.

While the story doesn’t break new ground, its brisk pace, creative kills, and intense finale make it a solid entry in the teen slasher canon. If you’re in the mood for bloody fun with a side of small-town social commentary, Clown in a Cornfield delivers just enough thrills to satisfy.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Having read the book before watching the movie, I can attest that the major plots present in the book made it into the movie and it has just a couple of major differences: Quinn’s father Glenn is given a more heroic role in the movie and Janet, the teen group’s queen bee, is not as deeply developed in the movie as she is in the book.

J. Horton’s ‘A Hard Place’ Brings Monsters, Mayhem, and a DIY Roadshow Spirit

, J. Horton’s star-studded monster opus A Hard Place comes to VOD on May 27, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

A Hard Place Hits Digital May 27: J. Horton’s Genre-Bending Thriller Comes Home

Following a successful theatrical run, J. Horton’s apocalyptic crime thriller arrives on Digital VOD just in time for summer.

After months on the road, filmmaker J. Horton is bringing his latest film, A Hard Place, to audiences across North America via Digital VOD on May 27, 2025. Viewers will be able to rent or own the film on major platforms, including Apple TV and Prime Video. Pre-order on Apple TV. (Justin Cook PR, 2025)

From Indie Roadshow to Digital Release

The A Hard Place road show began on January 12 at Englewood Cinema, just outside Dayton, Ohio. From there, the film made its way through theaters and drive-ins across the country, especially in the Midwest. With many sold-out screenings and in-person Q&As with Horton, the film built momentum as it connected directly with audiences.

Theatrical and drive-in showings will continue at independent cinemas through May, leading up to the digital release.

A Cast of Genre Icons

A Hard Place brings together an impressive ensemble of horror and cult film veterans, including:

  • Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp, Terrifier 2)
  • Lynn Lowry (Shivers, The Crazies)
  • Sadie Katz (Wrong Turn 6, The Beast Inside)
  • Rachel Amanda Bryant (Craving)
  • Kevin Caliber (Future Man)
  • Ashley Undercuffler (Craving, 16 Bits)
  • Bai Ling (The Crow)

Horton on the Roadshow Experience

Ahead of the film’s wider release, Horton shared his thoughts on the journey:

“A Hard Place has been by far the most ambitious project I’ve ever made. This movie would not exist if not for the talent, generosity, and just general good personalities of ALL of the cast and crew, as well as our cinema partners.

In true Roger Corman style, we hit the road with A Hard Place, traveling with the film to theaters and drive-ins across the country. It’s been a complete joy to see the movie with multiple audiences — something a lot of independent movies don’t get the opportunity to do.”

What’s A Hard Place About?

After a botched job leaves a trail of bodies behind, a gang of desperate criminals seeks refuge in a remote desert hideout. But their plans fall apart fast when they discover the area is home to something far worse than the law — an ancient war between monstrous predators of day and night.

As tensions rise and the body count climbs, the crew must decide if survival is worth trusting each other — or the creatures hunting them.

Runtime: 88 minutes
Country: USA

A Hard Place still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Step Into Joy: Inside Out Exhibit Comes to The DoSeum This Summer

The DoSeum to premiere Emotions at Play with Pixar’s ‘Inside Out’ this summer. Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.

🎉 Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out – Now at The DoSeum! 🎉
📅 May 24 – September 1, 2025
📍 The DoSeum, San Antonio

Step into the colorful world of Pixar’s Inside Out at The DoSeum’s newest interactive exhibit, Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out. Designed in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, this exhibit helps children and families explore the science of emotions through joyful, hands-on experiences. (The DoSeum, 2025)

👀 What to Expect:

  • Take charge at Headquarters’ Control Panel to explore emotional responses
  • Reflect on feelings with Emotion Mirrors
  • Capture powerful moments inside glowing Memory Spheres
  • Create stories at Dream Productions
  • Balance feelings on the Train of Thought and Emotion Blocks

🧠 Focused on the five core emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear—this playful exhibit supports emotional literacy, self-expression, and imagination, making it the perfect learning adventure for kids and caregivers alike.

About The DoSeum

The DoSeum is San Antonio’s museum for children and a cornerstone of interactive learning. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, with roots dating back to 1995 when it first opened as the San Antonio Children’s Museum, The DoSeum has grown into one of the nation’s top children’s museums. The DoSeum features interactive exhibits spanning science, math, art, and literacy, designed to spark curiosity and ignite imaginations. Committed to fostering hands-on learning and discovery, The DoSeum serves as a premier educational resource for educators, caregivers, and children in the San Antonio community.

About Inside Out 

Pixar’s hit animated feature Inside Out is the story of 11-year-old Riley, who like all of us, is guided by her emotions – Joy, Fear, Anger, Disgust, and Sadness. The emotions live in Headquarters, the control center inside Riley’s mind, where they help advise her through everyday life. Riley and her emotions struggle to adjust to a new life in San Francisco as Joy, Riley’s main and most important emotion, tries to keep things positive. Inside Out was released in 2015. 

🎂 You’re Invited: Hooray for 10! A Community Celebration
📅 Friday, June 6 | 10a.m. – 8p.m.
Celebrate The DoSeum’s 10th birthday with a FREE day of fun, including the Inside Out exhibit, live performances, treats, activities, and more!

🎟️ RSVP Required – Limited Tickets Available!
Reserve your free spot online during one of these RSVP windows:

  • May 16 at 8a.m.
  • May 17 at 12p.m.
  • May 18 at 3p.m.
  • May 19 at 7p.m.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn, laugh, and grow with your community!

The DoSeum
2800 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209

Photo: The DoSeum, used with permission.