Horrific Tales of the Wickedly Macabre edited by Zack Akers

An anthology series that celebrates the ridiculous excess of '80s horror. Eight separate terrifying stories, each told by horror fans, specifically for horror fans.

Roach Motel  - episode 5 of Horrific Tales of the Wickedly Macabre

by PH Cook (Wraparound Story Written by Sean Chipman)

Five college students traveling back home from a vacation in Florida are forced by a hurricane to seek shelter in a roadside motel where guests check in but never check out. 37 pages





The Dead Rock - episode 4 of Horrific Tales of the Wickedly Macabre

by Zack Ackers (Wraparound Story Written by Sean Chipman)

A small-time punk rock band seeking a weekend of kicks encounter an unimaginable evil. Bloody chaos ensues. 45 pages





Kindhearts - episode 3 of Horrific Tales of the Wickedly Macabre

by Sean Chipman (Wraparound Story Written by Sean Chipman)

A troubled couple visits a sit-down chain restaurant on their daughter's 15th birthday, only to find that the restaurant harbors a dark secret. 42 pages




Filthy Animal -  episode 2 of Horrific Tales of the Wickedly Macabre

by Michael J. Kospiah (Wraparound Story Written by Sean Chipman)

A mysterious animal control officer teaches an abusive dog owner what it's like to be treated like an animal. 28 pages



Lunar Shift - episode 1 of Horrific Tales of the Wickedly Macabre

by Sean Elwood (Wraparound Story Written by Sean Chipman)

When the popular kids at school begin to die in vicious maulings, the average Joe's set out to find the beast and kill it before they're next. 34 pages

Pia just directed me here, and I'm kind of shocked I wasn't aware of it, and that there are so few reads and comments.

Was this promoted at all?  Did I miss it?  I would have loved to partake, as I like these kinds of anthology things.

I read Episode 1 yesterday and will comment soon.

Why aren't all the writers in the anthology reading and providing feedback to their fellow writers?  Seems weird.

Best to all on Columbus Day!!

Quoted from Dreamscale Pia just directed me here, and I'm kind of shocked I wasn't aware of it, and that there are so few reads and comments. Was this promoted at all?  Did I miss it?  I would have loved to partake, as I like these kinds of anthology things. I read Episode 1 yesterday and will comment soon. Why aren't all the writers in the anthology reading and providing feedback to their fellow writers?  Seems weird. Best to all on Columbus Day!!

Jeff - was released in pieces. e.g.

https://www.simplyscripts.net/cgi-bin/Blah/Blah.pl?m-1601393810/

Quoted from Dreamscale Pia just directed me here, and I'm kind of shocked I wasn't aware of it, and that there are so few reads and comments. Was this promoted at all?  Did I miss it?  I would have loved to partake, as I like these kinds of anthology things. I read Episode 1 yesterday and will comment soon. Why aren't all the writers in the anthology reading and providing feedback to their fellow writers?  Seems weird. ...

...And quick responses to feedback in general imh.

I'm with you there on that last bit in particular, Jeff.

Not having a go, (people could be busy juggling many things) but to create buzz there needs to be continued buzz.

It's a shame you can hear a pin drop around here lately.

I will continue to read and review these cause imho this is a classy horror anthology with some terrific writing on display.

Looking forward to the next installments.

* Just want to add I'm sure each writer has read the other Writers' installments already but it doesn't matter. Let's see your reviews anyway.

Quoted from Dreamscale Why aren't all the writers in the anthology reading and providing feedback to their fellow writers?  Seems weird.

I think most of us read and commented on the scripts before they were posted.

Quoted from Grandma Bear I think most of us read and commented on the scripts before they were posted.

That doesn't work, though, especially in a forum like SS.

I'm going to start reviewing and see if I can kick up some interest here.  Peeps may not appreciate what I have to say, but I'm going to throw it out there, positive or negative.

Quoted from Dreamscale I'm going to start reviewing and see if I can kick up some interest here.  Peeps may not appreciate what I have to say, but I'm going to throw it out there, positive or negative.

I always appreciate what you have to say, Dude. And I agree. If all the writers of the series can find the time to review the episodes here on the boards, it'll only help get more eyes on the series.

As for the strange release of the series... That's totally on me. I should have reached out to Don much earlier and planned that out better. Oh well. Live and learn. Lol. Season 2 will definitely be handled better in that regard.

Will be reviewing episode 3 here shortly, then I'll submitting episode 4. Really hope the reads start to pick up, as I really think horror fans are gonna love this series.

One last thing... Big thanks to all involved. Especially to Mr. Elwood, who made a bunch of awesome posters for this. Really happy with everyone's work on the series. You all came up with some really cool stories.

I'll be reading and commenting on all entries. Been trying to knock out my own script and been dealing with some random shit on the side. As it happens, I read Sean's script, which was great. Admittedly been a little scatterbrained getting that feedback posted though.

Quoted from James McClung I'll be reading and commenting on all entries. Been trying to knock out my own script and been dealing with some random shit on the side. As it happens, I read Sean's script, which was great. Admittedly been a little scatterbrained getting that feedback posted though.

You're all good, Dude. In hindsight, I should have listened to Pia and Dena and gone with a stricter page count for each episode. Like I said... Live and learn. Lol

Quoted from Dreamscale That doesn't work, though, especially in a forum like SS.

That kind of makes no sense. I can't the number of scripts I've read ala PM versus posting on the board.  Sure that happens a lot to everyone.

Quoted from eldave1 That kind of makes no sense. I can't the number of scripts I've read ala PM versus posting on the board.  Sure that happens a lot to everyone.

You mean, you can't "remember" how many times you've provided feedback privately vs. publicly?

Sure, peeps do that.  I've done that...countless times, but I' also try and provide public feedback, which can be helpful to many more peeps than just the writer.

Maybe times have changed so much that no one cares about public feedback anymore.  I don't know.

But I do know that the more attention a script gets on the forum, the better chance more will read it and hopefully provide their own feedback.

Maybe this is why SS seems so dead at times, because no one is commenting on what they're reading...or maybe peeps just don't have the time or want to make the time to read and provide comments.

There are so many prominent writers on SS who didn't know dick when they first started.  They grew as writers based on the forum, based on what individual people said, based on answers to questions they asked or maybe someone else asked.

I've always maintained that SS works on a Quid Pro Quo basis, and I truly believe that.

The more you give, the more you'll get back.  

Quoted from Dreamscale There are so many prominent writers on SS who didn't know dick when they first started.  They grew as writers based on the forum, based on what individual people said, based on answers to questions they asked or maybe someone else asked. I've always maintained that SS works on a Quid Pro Quo basis, and I truly believe that. The more you give, the more you'll get back.

Agree 100%. And while I'm far from one of the prominent writers on SS, I can attest that open discussions here on the boards have helped me grow immensely as a writer, at least IMO.  

Quoted from Dreamscale You mean, you can't "remember" how many times you've provided feedback privately vs. publicly? Sure, peeps do that.  I've done that...countless times, but I' also try and provide public feedback, which can be helpful to many more peeps than just the writer. Maybe times have changed so much that no one cares about public feedback anymore.  I don't know. But I do know that the more attention a script gets on the forum, the better chance more will read it and hopefully provide their own feedback. Maybe this is why SS seems so dead at times, because no one is commenting on what they're reading...or maybe peeps just don't have the time or want to make the time to read and provide comments. There are so many prominent writers on SS who didn't know dick when they first started.  They grew as writers based on the forum, based on what individual people said, based on answers to questions they asked or maybe someone else asked. I've always maintained that SS works on a Quid Pro Quo basis, and I truly believe that. The more you give, the more you'll get back.

Don't disagree with any of the objectives - in fact - I give feedback on this site to at least two or three scripts every single week. So you're preaching to the choir.

That being said - the fact that this one may have received private vs public feedback does not mean there is a problem. THat's all.

Hmm, maybe Jeff's hit on a reason wihy the site goes through periods of pin-drop activity.

We get to know each other and we email for private reviews. Absolutely nothing wrong with that but we should all agree that those reviews also make it onto the site so it's a hive of activity.

I remember a time, that's all, when a short script would go up and readers would be clamouring to add their 2c. Made for a real sense of camaraderie and collective community. It attracted attention too and so potential Producers would take note as well.

Dave, I know you jump on new scripts posted pronto; help out new writers as a matter of regularity. I also try to do that and some regulars - Ghostwriters in particular, (and others - some newbs, I've noticed) do so as well. And yes, we've all had different stressors since Covid hit, and these are extraordinary times...

I just think more of us need to lift our game a bit in terms of visual presence on SS.
Jmho.

Apologies this is off topic.. If more discussion ensues I'll take it to a new thread.

Quoted from LC Hmm, maybe Jeff's hit on a reason wihy the site goes through periods of pin-drop activity. We get to know each other and we email for private reviews. Absolutely nothing wrong with that but we should all agree that those reviews also make it onto the site so it's a hive of activity. I remember a time, that's all, when a short script would go up and readers would be clamouring to add their 2c. Made for a real sense of camaraderie and collective community. It attracted attention too and so potential Producers would take note as well. Dave, I know you jump on new scripts posted pronto; help out new writers as a matter of regularity. I also try to do that and some regulars - Ghostwriters in particular, (and others - some newbs, I've noticed) do so as well. And yes, we've all had different stressors since Covid hit, and these are extraordinary times... I just think more of us need to lift our game a bit in terms of visual presence on SS. Jmho. Apologies this is off topic.. If more discussion ensues I'll take it to a new thread.

Whenever a writer PMs me for a review, I ask them if they want it on the site or private. I assume we ought to respect that wish.

Jeff generally only reviews OWCs - at least since I have been here. However, he must have reviewed a ton of scripts in the past given his post count - so I am assuming he has dropped off for some reason (review fatigue maybe. Perhaps he would have some insight into what would re-generate a review spark on his part outside of OWCs.

So - Jeff - what do you think, mate - what would spark an interest for you in reading and commenting on scripts just because (i.e., rather than an OWC)? It seems that 95% of your reviews and comments are dedicated in those areas along with general screenwriting topics - e.g., how do I format this - etc.  But I rarely see you comment on a script out of the blue.

Don't get me wrong - obviously no obligation on your part and, like me, you review a lot of OWCs you're not even in. But hardly ever just a randomly posted script.  What could be done to change that? OR - is it even needed?

I'll reply ASAP, Dave, but doubtful tonight.

Quoted from Dreamscale I'll reply ASAP, Dave, but doubtful tonight.

No rush, bud - I'm deep into NFL

Quoted from eldave1 No rush, bud - I'm deep into NFL

ME 3!!!!  I need a big game out of Diggs!!!

You fantasy football NERDS!!! Lol

Quoted from Zack You fantasy football NERDS!!! Lol

Ain't nothing better than the NFL!

Quoted from eldave1 Jeff generally only reviews OWCs - at least since I have been here. However, he must have reviewed a ton of scripts in the past given his post count - so I am assuming he has dropped off for some reason (review fatigue maybe. Perhaps he would have some insight into what would re-generate a review spark on his part outside of OWCs.

Actually, Jeff has probably reviewed more scripts than anyone else here ever. Especially features. His reviewing style didn't use to be as harsh as now. They were often really long and helpful. What has changed in that regard? I don't know. Only Jeff would know the answer to that one, but he gets a lot of leeway here due to the amount of valuable feedback he has given over the years.  

Quoted from Grandma Bear Actually, Jeff has probably reviewed more scripts than anyone else here ever. Especially features. His reviewing style didn't use to be as harsh as now. They were often really long and helpful. What has changed in that regard? I don't know. Only Jeff would know the answer to that one, but he gets a lot of leeway here due to the amount of valuable feedback he has given over the years.

Yep. I presumed so given 11000 posts.

Quoted from eldave1 No rush, bud - I'm deep into NFL

Got my win!  3-2, 1 game out of 1st.  The 1st place team should have lost and I would be right there, but they squeaked out a win.  ARGH!!  

I’m 5-0 in my yahoo fantasy    

Quoted from stevie I’m 5-0 in my yahoo fantasy

SWEET!  Obviously, you don't have any 49'ers, right?

Quoted from Dreamscale SWEET!  Obviously, you don't have any 49'ers, right?

I’m slowly removing them, bro.   Should write a short about the Niners horrific injury list. But I reckon we beat the Lams this week

Quoted from stevie I’m slowly removing them, bro.   Should write a short about the Niners horrific injury list. But I reckon we beat the Lams this week

I reckon my Rams will absolutely destroy your weakass Niners!!!

Quoted from eldave1 So - Jeff - what do you think, mate - what would spark an interest for you in reading and commenting on scripts just because (i.e., rather than an OWC)? It seems that 95% of your reviews and comments are dedicated in those areas along with general screenwriting topics - e.g., how do I format this - etc.  But I rarely see you comment on a script out of the blue. Don't get me wrong - obviously no obligation on your part and, like me, you review a lot of OWCs you're not even in. But hardly ever just a randomly posted script.  What could be done to change that? OR - is it even needed?

Well, here's the thing, Dave...

Yeah, I used to read entire feature length scripts and provide great detailed feedback.  I would do that for the writer, as well as other writers who were interested is such feedback, in hopes of helping their writing.

Many times, the writer barely or didn't even respond.

I continued this with shorts, especially for writers I knew, and also for new writers, to get them engaged on the board, and also to help them get their feet under them in terms of writing scripts.

Again, little follow up from peeps most of the time.

This is back when I was writing, so I was hoping and assuming that peeps would jump on my scripts and provide detailed feedback.  Yeah, I have gotten feedback, and actually quite alot back in the day, but mostly the feedback I get is the kind of feedback one can give in a few minutes, rarely  much in terms of details and the like.

As time passed, peeps tended not to want to hear my thoughts and suggestions.  They didn't want to hear about all the blatant mistakes and rookie errors they were making over and over again.

I guess I got tired of seeing the same mistakes over and over again and decided I was wasting my time, beating a dead horse over the head.

Peeps who are writing and submitting scripts on SS are the ones who need to be heavily living by the Quid Pro Quo mantra, as they are the ones who are in need of the advice/help, they're the ones who can/should learn from reading such advice/help, and new blood is what keeps this place spinning.

I guess the bottom line is that I got irked by how little thanks I got for spending alot of time and providing what I felt was expertise to help them become better writers.

Hope that makes sense.

Quoted from Dreamscale Well, here's the thing, Dave... Yeah, I used to read entire feature length scripts and provide great detailed feedback.  I would do that for the writer, as well as other writers who were interested is such feedback, in hopes of helping their writing. Many times, the writer barely or didn't even respond. I continued this with shorts, especially for writers I knew, and also for new writers, to get them engaged on the board, and also to help them get their feet under them in terms of writing scripts. Again, little follow up from peeps most of the time. This is back when I was writing, so I was hoping and assuming that peeps would jump on my scripts and provide detailed feedback.  Yeah, I have gotten feedback, and actually quite alot back in the day, but mostly the feedback I get is the kind of feedback one can give in a few minutes, rarely  much in terms of details and the like. As time passed, peeps tended not to want to hear my thoughts and suggestions.  They didn't want to hear about all the blatant mistakes and rookie errors they were making over and over again. I guess I got tired of seeing the same mistakes over and over again and decided I was wasting my time, beating a dead horse over the head. Peeps who are writing and submitting scripts on SS are the ones who need to be heavily living by the Quid Pro Quo mantra, as they are the ones who are in need of the advice/help, they're the ones who can/should learn from reading such advice/help, and new blood is what keeps this place spinning. I guess the bottom line is that I got irked by how little thanks I got for spending alot of time and providing what I felt was expertise to help them become better writers. Hope that makes sense.

It does.

Cool idea. Congrats all on getting this made. I'll try to get to them all this weekend. Don't know why I started in opposite order cuz the wraparound story is gonna make no sense now...

Quoted from MarkItZero Cool idea. Congrats all on getting this made. I'll try to get to them all this weekend. Don't know why I started in opposite order cuz the wraparound story is gonna make no sense now...

Take my word for it. By the time I'm done with it, it still won't make sense, even if read chronologically. Lol.

I'm still SHOCKED how few reads and views this is getting!

WTF?  C'mon, Peeps!  Where are the peeps?

It goes without saying... I, and the other writers, will gladly return reads. Horror fans, this series is for you!!!

Episode 5 will be up very soon! The amazing Pia has whipped up something incredibly gross for you guys.

I'm way behind! I'm gonna skip the first one for now cuz I'm not sure Zombie Sean is around (maybe lurking?). So, I'm going for episode 2 tonight, then on to disgusting roaches.

All I know about the wraparound is that there's two people in a car and one of them might be an immortal?

Sean Elwood is around. He's been very busy with school and work, but I know he plans on responding to all the reads and reviews his episode gets. I'd recommend giving Lunar Shift a read. It's a fun werewolf script.

Quoted from Zack Sean Elwood is around. He's been very busy with school and work, but I know he plans on responding to all the reads and reviews his episode gets. I'd recommend giving Lunar Shift a read. It's a fun werewolf script.

Cool, then I'll just read them all in order. And by in order I mean backwards.

Sorry for the delay. Episode 6 will be coming very soon.

What ever happened to this? I was planning on reading the completed story.

Sorry for the long silence. Kind of hit a wall over here on my end. Life comes at you hard. Lol. Only two episodes left, one of which is just about finished. I believe Sean has nearly finished his wraparound as well. Guess it's about time I suck it up and finish what I started.

Will have an update soon.

Quoted from Zack Sorry for the long silence. Kind of hit a wall over here on my end. Life comes at you hard. Lol. Only two episodes left, one of which is just about finished. I believe Sean has nearly finished his wraparound as well. Guess it's about time I suck it up and finish what I started. Will have an update soon.

Looking forward to giving it a read in its entirety.

Working with Sean Chipman to finally get this series finished up for this coming Halloween. Very sorry for the long delay. I hope to make it more than worth the wait.