Shawn Ashmore has declared himself a horror fan. “I do like horror films,” he said. “I’ve made a lot of horror films. I like supernatural horror more than just slasher films.”

Ashmore’s love of horror helps him in the remake of the 1980 Troma classic “Mother’s Day,” directed by Charles Kaufman. Ashmore plays George, a doctor who is part of the group of strangers trapped in a sadistic family’s house. According to Ashmore, George’s abilities allow him to take on the task of keeping one of the trapped members’ brother alive. His know-how and prestige also gives him more leverage with the criminals.

“He’s kind of the audience,” said Ashmore. “He sees both sides of what’s going on. He has a little power than the other hostages. He wasn’t a victim–that’s what I like about George.”

Ashmore’s favorite scene to shoot, in fact, was the scene in which George and Lydia Koffin, the daughter of the villanous Mother (played Deborah Ann Woll), are conversing in the bathroom.

“All of the other scenes are loud and intense, so it was very nice to have this very quiet scene,” he said. “George can manipulate Lydia. He was the manipulating the scene to save his own skin.”

Other favorite scenes include any scene which showcased Warren Kole as Lydia’s brother Addley Koffin. “[His character] is insane, a psychopath but really funny as well,” he said. “It was great to see him play Addley because he has a nice touch to how he plays him.”

Even though the film is a remake, Ashmore said fans of the original shouldn’t go into this film expecting the same thing. “This is a loose interpretation, not a direct remake,” he said. “Fans need to know that before going in. This is a tribute to the original.” In case you’re still not impressed, Ashmore discussed the official seal of approval this film received. “We got Kaufman’s blessing,” he said. “If you’re a fan of horror films or thrillers, check it out.”

“Mother’s Day” is available on DVD and Blu-ray and Redbox today.

By Monique Jones

Monique Jones blogs about race and culture in entertainment, particularly movies and television. You can read her articles at Racialicious, and her new site, COLOR . You can also listen to her new podcast, What would Monique Say.

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