I just finished watching ‘Altered’ and came across your blog after visiting your site. I was actually one of the first people to see BW at Sundance, and really liked it at the time. While I can see why people hated BW, I thought that was one of the most original scary movies I’d seen, and I really appreciated the unique way it came together. I was eager to see what you’d do next. When I heard BW2 was coming out and read some of the reviews, I was disappointed and didn’t even see the film. I know you didn’t direct it, and I guess I was hoping for something more original for your next outing.

I’m an aspiring director myself, although all my time is currently focused on family and my work making cinematics for Playstation games. Lately, I’ve been subjecting myself to really bad sci-fi/horro movies I find on the shelf at Blockbuster, mostly to remind myself that I need to get off my ass and actually make a film. I don’t aspire to make crap like the stuff that’s out there, but I mean, if these guys can do it, I can!

But I digress. I came across ‘Altered’ and saw that it was directed by you. I figured it would be just another bad movie that would inspire me.

I was wrong.

I thought ‘Altered’ was one of the best sci-fi/horror movies I’ve seen in while (and I’m not comparing it to the crap I rent for fun)! Loved the atmosphere and tension you built, and thought the end was perfect. So many times I’ll see a horror movie that just relies on blood and effects, or ‘pop out and scare you’ tactics. I get so tired of that. I loved your film because it was genuinely scary…it established characters and built tension…and delivered. The scene with the alien playing tug of war with Otis’ intestines was horrifying the disturbing…and scary as hell. The climax was just as satisfying. I think your movie succeeds because it felt REAL, and that’s what I miss about movies nowadays, especially sci-fi/horror flicks…most feel way too over the top and forced. Yours felt like this is something that actually happened. Great job.

I know this is some long-winded post, but my point is that you shouldn’t take all the bad shit that’s happened to you on this project personally. You’ve got great talent, more than I ever gave you credit for after BW, and I can’t wait to see what you do next. A lot of shit that goes down is just stupid Hollywood business, and sometimes it’s unfortunate that it can ruin the chances of a good flick, like ‘Altered’. But at least you’re out there, making movies…something I’m still trying to get myself to do. Don’t worry what anyone else says…and just do what feels right. You obviously have the talent to make good movies. I only hope that some day I’m lucky enough to work and learn from you. Keep at it.

Gene.