Key Takeaways:
– Iconic genre filmmaker J.R. Bookwalter returns to directing after 20 years with ‘Side Effects May Vary.’
– The film has been showcased in 35 US theatres, along with festival screenings in Canada and Germany.
– A limited edition Blu-ray and DVD release of the 84-minute uncut version is available for pre-order through a Kickstarter campaign.
– An edited version will be available on streaming platforms by year’s end.
– Packed with special features, the release also includes some copies with a Kickstarter-exclusive, director-autographed Blu-ray slipcover.
– The film is a laugh-filled, gooey sci-fi/horror throwback to monster movie classics.
After a two-decade hiatus from directing, J.R. Bookwalter, renowned for his unique take on genre filmmaking, returns with his latest project. ‘Side Effects May Vary,’ a fast-paced sci-fi horror-comedy, is set to release on home video soon.
Reviving the Classics
‘Side Effects May Vary,’ inspired by the classic monster flicks of the 70s particularly ‘The Incredible Melting Man,’ presents a twist-filled plot around an experimental pandemic vaccine. The aftermath of this dubious cure offers the perfect backdrop for humorous anecdotes and an infusion of vintage sci-fi terror.
Pre-order Exclusive: Uncut Version with Extras
J.R. Bookwalter is offering fans a chance to pre-order a copy of the limited-edition Blu-ray and DVD release through his Kickstarter campaign. This offer includes the uncut version running 84 minutes, three minutes longer than the version set to stream later this year. These discs are region-free, and some are available with a Kickstarter-exclusive Blu-ray slipcover autographed by Bookwalter, capped at 300 units.
Special Features Galore
To further enrich the home viewing experience, the Blu-ray and DVD versions include a host of special features. These include Dolby Digital and DTS-HD MA surround sound, audio commentary with Bookwalter, two trailers, and an opening night Q&A at the Harris Theatre in Pittsburgh.
Notable Cast and Unforgettable Moments
Embracing the comedic horror in ‘Side Effects May Vary’ are cast members James L. Edwards (also the screenplay writer), Drew Fortier, Floyd Ewing Jr., Tina Krause, Sasha Graham, Brinke Stevens, Wendy Zier, and Tom Hoover. Additionally, fans should look forward to a crowd-favorite shot featuring Tina Krause which will only be available in the uncensored version.
A Wait Worth the While
J.R. Bookwalter, known for movies like ‘The Dead Next Door,’ ‘Robot Ninja,’ ‘Zombie Cop,’ and ‘Kingdom of the Vampire,’ among many others, has long been admired for his creative genius. His return to directing with ‘Side Effects May Vary’ has been hailed as a landmark event for genre cinema, making the wait for its home video release even more exciting.
Fans of Bookwalter are now eagerly awaiting the opportunity to secure their pre-order copies. Are you one of them?
