For those unaware Malvolia: The Queen of Screams (Jenn Nangle IRRATIONAL FEAR, MALVOLIA’S MEMORABLE THANKSGIVING 2) has become a cult figure for her series on YouTube and an appearance in the anthology film 10/31. A darker, more malevolent version of Elvira she has more than enough style and curves to hold your attention.

Now for her annual Halloween special, aptly titled THE QUEEN OF SCREAMS: A HALLOWEEN SPECIAL, she’s back and ready to play, much to the dismay of her guests. Adam (Cyrus Soliman) the internet pirate, Jack (Raymond Vinsik Williams FROM JENNIFER) an ex-boyfriend, Nancy (Amanda Cano, THAT NIGHT) a film blogger, Sydney (Danielle Inks) a self-anointed Scream Queen, and Hunter (Hunter Johnson 2 JENNIFER, CROSSBREED) a wannabe filmmaker. All have crossed her in some manner, and all must pay.

Waking in an abandoned asylum, they’re reminded of their sins by Malvolia and informed that they will be tested and challenged. The strongest of them might survive.

I was worried that this would turn out to be too much like the SAW franchise, which I’m not a fan of. However, Nangle and director Richard Trejo infuse the film with the kind of flair and imagination those films lack. The scenarios the victims find themselves in are fitting and, while played seriously, are shot through with enough dark humor to keep fans of the show happy.

One thing that has changed is the production values, THE QUEEN OF SCREAMS: A HALLOWEEN SPECIAL is just that. There’s some impressive location photography, an original score and some impressive practical work by Chronix EFX. Upping the budget really allows the show’s crew to show what they’re capable of. Given what we’ve seen previously it’s not surprising, but it’s nice to see it confirmed.

The cast and crew of THE QUEEN OF SCREAMS: A HALLOWEEN SPECIAL have delivered a fast, fun 25 minutes worth of seasonal entertainment. Fans of the regular episodes will be delighted and new viewers should be converted to fans. I’ll take this over any of YouTube’s “star” video makers output any day.

Don’t believe me? Check it out for yourself