You can see how it happens. Thousands of films are released each year and while some gain immediate success, many more go past unnoticed.
Instead of opening in the big cinemas, these productions are destined for a life on a back shelf of a dirty video shop, their only hope being picked up by an inquisitive visitor. For some, this is no bad thing. But then you get the odd one from the others that merits a closer glance...
1. Session 9 (2001)
What is it?
An indie horror film, which only made it straight to video over here. Its reminiscent of The Shining, with its surprising tale of madness and murder. Shot in a derelict mental institution, the film boasts an uncomfortably creepy atmosphere which culminates in some shocking violence.
Who's in it?
The lead is brilliantly played by Peter Mullan, a Scottish actor best known for roles in Braveheart and as dealer Johnny Swan in Trainspotting. There's also David Caruso, star of CSI and Josh Lucas of Sweet Home Alabama.
Who Likes It?
Well it got a lot of positive notices in the US but the best quote has to be from Trades: "This is the kind of film responsible for making adults cry." Might not go that far myself, but it will stay with you for days.
2. Return To Paradise (1998)
What is it?
A Midnight Express style drug-trafficking tale. It boasts an impressive dilemma: You have a hash-fuelled holiday in Thailand with your friends, leaving one behind but he gets caught and charged with dealing. Two years later a lawyer finds you and informs you that you must go back for a 3 year jail sentence or he will die. It's a pretty powerful film with a tear-stained finale.
Who's in it?
There are quite a few familiar faces in this one. Swingers star Vince Vaughn, Ally McBeal star Anne Heche and Signs star Joaquin Phoenix
Who Likes It?
Again this one got very string reviews. Filmthreat.com calls it "complex and though provoking" with an ending that that is very powerful and must be witnessed to be believed?.
3. The Last Supper (1995)
What is it?
A black comedy about killing people with opposing views. A group of liberal students have a dinner guest with extreme opinions over for dinner each week and if they can't change their beliefs they poison them. Oh did I say it was a black comedy?
Who's in it?
Well this is the film that a certain Cameron Diaz chose to follow up The Mask with. It also has cameos from Twister's Bill Paxton and Seinfeld's Jason Alexander.
Who Likes It?
This film divided critics. The San Francisco Chronicle calls is "smart and nasty", it stays one step ahead of the audience?. It has also now been turned into a play in Italy so the Italians obviously liked it.
4. Miracle Mile (1989)
What is it?
A frighteningly realistic drama about the end of the world. After falling head over heels with a waitress, a musician suddenly discovers that a nuclear missile is about to hit the city. Forget every apocalyptic film you've seen before. There are no sudden heroics and people resort to violence and looting while the conclusion is sobering and haunting.
Who's in it?
The lead character is played by Anthony Edwards, best known for being Dr. Greene in ER. The female is played by Mare Winningham, who starred in Turner and Hooch and St.Elmo's Fire back in the 80's.
Who Likes it?
Commonly seen as an undiscovered gem, this has some glowing reviews. Bryant Frazer calls it 'unmissable and uniquely chilling'. Most agree that the ending will leave you reeling
5. Below (2002)
What is it?
A claustrophobic thriller from the director of Pitch Black. Set on a submarine during WW2, it tells the story of three survivor taken on board after an accident. But this becomes a catalyst for a bizarre series of events. The film boasts continuous suspense and some well-timed shocks. It disappeared straight to video over here.
Who's in it?
It stars Olivia Williams, best known as the wife of Bruce Willis in The Sixth Sense. It also stars Bruce Greenwood, from Double Jeopardy and Matthew Davis from Legally Blonde. But the most exciting star may well be a certain Dexter Fletcher, still best known for Press Gang.
Who Likes It?
This garnered some favourable reviews in the states, many claiming it to be the finest horror film of the year. The Greenwich Village Gazette believed that "every moment crackled with tension and by the end of the flick you're on the edge of your seat".
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