I’m a big fan of chatting with new directors, especially in a Q&A setting, because a lot of the time they’re fairly fearless. They don’t know what not to say, and that often results in some frank and honest conversations about getting your first shorts and couple of feature films made. Case in point, THE GALLOWS writer-directors Travis Cluff and Chris Lofing, who have worked apart and together on smaller projects in the past, but are about to see their new film under the Blumhouse Productions (the PARANORMAL ACTIVITY and INSIDIOUS franchises) banner (through Warner Bros.) on July 10. And I can’t wait to see what they have to say about the experience of not just making the film, but the thrill of having one of the most successful makers of horror films in recent memory get behind their project.
For those who don’t know it, the official synopsis for THE GALLOWS is: “20 years after a horrific accident during a small town school play, students at the school resurrect the failed show in a misguided attempt to honor the anniversary of the tragedy—but soon discover that some things are better left alone.” Or maybe this trailer will get you in the mood to get scared…
I’ve got a bunch of seats to give away to an early Chicago screening of THE GALLOWS for Ain’t It Cool News readers and one guest on Thursday, July 2 at 7:00pm at a theater in Chicago (the exact location will only be given to the winners). As an added bonus, co-writers/-directors Travis Cluff and Chris Lofing will be on hand to do a post-screening Q&A. Here’s how to win…
To win, send me an email at GallowsChicago@aintitcoolmail.com (please note the new email address) with the subject line “School Spirit” (exactly like that). In the body of the email, I need your full Name, if you are bringing a guest (each winner may bring ONE, confirmed guest--if I think you gave your extra ticket to someone trolling for free tickets at the theater, you won't get in), and the answer to the following question: “What is your favorite scary movie that you saw when you were in high school, and why?” So I’m looking for a film title (it doesn’t have to be a film that was new when you were in high school; just one that you saw in that timeframe), and a solid explanation why it impacted you. Keep your responses BRIEF--no more than 100 words (no matter how tempted you are to go over the limit). Best answers (as judged by me) win, and you'll hear from me very soon if you won.
Although this is not an exclusive Ain't It Cool News event, winners are guaranteed seats until 15 minutes before showtime (meaning 6:45pm). If you can't arrive by 6:45pm, don't enter this contest. If you show up at the last minute, there is no guarantee that your seats will be good or together. If there's even the slightest chance you or your guests will have to back out of attending or arrive late if you do win, don't enter. If you have a job that might make you late or unable to attend, or an ill/pregnant relative, or a temperamental significant other, or a scratchy throat, do not enter. And the 24-hour-notice-to-cancel rule is done. If you win and don't show up for any reason (INCLUDING THE WEATHER), the Black List is your new best friend.
Good luck, everyone! And thanks to the Warner Bros. for bringing this very cool screening and these guests to Chicago.
