Why We Like: Ti West

It's been hard to peg down Ti West, whose Trigger Man launched him to prominence among the circle of creative talents that are apart of The Mayor's collective roost. Comparisons for Trigger can range from "Old Joy with serial killers" to the "Hipster Horror" title that Murder Party and Blood Car also share.

But in a weird way, that's exactly why we like Ti West.

One of the first things he would admit is that Trigger Man isn't a horror film. And yet, there are legitimately tense and shocking moments when the build up finally subsides into running and violence, which cements West as one of the more interesting directors working within "horror" at the moment.

Based on what he could do with Man, he was given the reins for Cabin Fever 2, which wound up becoming far more interesting in behind-the-scenes stories and production battles than the film itself, which became relegated to screening at horror festivals and an eventual DVD that West wanted his name taken off yet had enough of his material used that he couldn't.

It's a real shame since West has a clear voice and style, even if it fools people into thinking it is nostalgia. Consider Dead and Lonely, his short series for IFC.com that came complete with a viral site, DateorDie, featuring Dracula-themed names. In five parts, what could be a funny idea for a sketch group turns into a waiting game with pulsating drums and music so omnious that even Cthulhu would look over its' winged shoulder.

Justin (Justin Rice) is contacted by Lee (Paige Stark) based on his DateorDie profile and wants to meet--that night. Justin initially freaks out, calling a friend to wonder if he somehow ordered a prostitute. And of course, if you watch the first episode, you'll see exactly what Lee's entire purpose for the teeth-in-cheek site is. West's entire sense shows up in these hand held shots that bump and stumble through rooms, punctuated with constant sound.  And yet, the humor is fantastic and sickly adorable, as when Justin finally hugs Lee and remarks, "It's so good to talk to new people."

The House of the Devil opens tonight in New York, Austin and West Hollywood. Director Ti West and Jocelin Donahue are doing a Q&A at the Sunset 5 during the 7:20 and 9:45 pm show. It's also available as Video On Demand for AT&T, Comcast,Cablevision,Time Warner, a few other outlets and Amazon.com. We're also looking for your webcam reviews for The Rotten Tomatoes Show for it by Sunday at midnight.