Little Erin Merryweather
- Details
-
Published on Saturday, 23 October 2010 20:00
-
Written by Rock
| Title | Little Erin Merryweather |
| Directed By | David Morwick |
| Written By | David Morwick |
| Starring | Vigdis Anholt, David Morwick, Elizabeth Callahan, Frank Ridley |
| Release Date | 2003 |
| DVD Distributer | Indican |
| MPAA Rating | R |
| KillingBoxx Score | 4.0 |
| By It Now On |  |
The Rock gets Little Erin Merryweather's scoop from Morwick and Anholt!
A few years ago, this particular Reviewer wandered into his local video rental establishment, a bit too late. Before online streaming establishments such as Netflix came to light, or even cable on demand, viewers were at the tender mercies of their local video rental house. Granted, this viewer has seen many memorable pictures over the decades due to these humble establishments, which have come and gone over the years, and yet, in their waning decade, the reason for their demise is apparent: the lack of a large or diverse selection. Now, patient reader, you must be asking yourself, "isn't this supposed to be a film review?", to which this Reviewer can only respond: "I'm getting to it..."
Aside from pontificating on local retail establishments, it occurred one evening, on a Saturday, I had arrived too late to procure a copy of any of the 'hottest' new releases. Grumbling along the nearly empty shelves, one jacket stood out, quite deliberately. It actually turned out to be quite a nice evening, as the film Little Erin Merryweather proved to be everything this viewer enjoyed during horror's heyday of the 1980's.
Based in part on a twist of
Little Red Riding Hood, this project finds its protagonist in the guise of Dr. Paula Sheffield (Callahan)
, whom seeks to expose the culprit of a series of ghastly murders upon the campus of a New England College. The victims, all male, have all had their entrails removed, and replaced with stones. Also on the case, is Peter Bloom (Morwick), a member of the Universities humble newspaper, whom might have an easier time conducting his investigation, if it weren't for his infatuation with fellow student Erin Merryweather (Anholt).
What first grasped this particular viewers eye, was that this venture was shot nearby, in nearby Bridgewater and Middleborough, Massachusetts. Filmed for roughly $400,000, Morwick assumed the positions of many mantles to bring this endeavor to fruition; writing the script, directing, producing, and participating as a starring actor. Many friends and family members also contributed, showing audiences what the efforts of a few years labor can yield when the will is there.
Having met at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Morwick and actress Vigdis Anholt were well acquainted, and close friends, years before this project started. When David began his script, he had Vigdis in mind for the part of
Little Erin Merryweather, which upon viewing proves to be a sound choice. In preparation for the part, Vigdis drew as much as possible from various detailed publications dedicated to the matter, and then, in the manner proper thespians do, adapted these elements into a believable character.
Differing a great deal from the mainstream trend of modern horror, Morwick chooses to present this films violence from an implied sense. There are no scenes of gratuitous nudity or blood-letting, and the female characters are presented in a non chauvinistic light. The male characters, however; are dominantly depicted as arrogant,macho, and testosterone driven, with the exception of Morwick's sensitive and sympathetic role.
The premise of
Little Erin Merryweather is more of a psychological thriller, centering on the disturbed and troubled character Anholt so eloquently portrays. Furthering the atmosphere of this project, is the snow covered landscape of a New England winter,and the twisted fairy tale setting. Viewers whom appreciated the thrillers and early horror films of the 1970's and early 1980's, as well as the better Independent ventures of today, are sure to enjoy
Little Erin Merryweather.
With cleverly executed cinematography, a cast of competent actors, and the natural flow of the storyline, it is no wonder that this film has achieved world wide distribution, as well as the accolades and praise from its followers.
In closing, this Viewer would like to extend his fondest thanks for all the helpful details, information, and the kind and candid exchanges with both director David Morwick and actress Vigdis Anholt, for without whom much of this article would not nearly have been as informative, nor as enjoyable to write.
