Category: Horror/Thriller

“Founders Day”

6.2

I’m still so conflicted about this one. There were such beautifully done moments, but then a scene immediately following it that was so cringe that I found myself laughing at the absurdity. I didn’t hold the lack of character depth against them, it’s a slasher after all. That being said, “Thanksgiving” nailed what this movie was trying to do and fell short of consistently. There were some promising twists and turns, especially in the third act. The biggest downfall was the dialogue throughout. It took me out of multiple scenes and losing sympathy for multiple characters that I initially quite liked. Interestingly mixed bag here.

“Night Swim”

7.9

What a way to kick off the theatrical releases for the year!

If this is a sign of things to come, 2024 is going to be an amazing year for horror films.

For all the folks who put in a pool because they never felt it safe to go back in the water after the events of “JAWS,” I have some bad news for you. It’s also not safe in your pool. Especially when it’s spring fed. Magic pools always have a catch. Look no further than “Hot Tub Time Machine.”

The story, the execution of the scares, and THE SOUNDTRACK… everything here brings its a-game until the credits roll. With every twist and turn, you’re drawn further and further into the depths of this one. There was a wonderful charm of originality with this one that I deeply appreciated. The wholesomeness of the family and America’s pastime (baseball) as a central theme made the turn into darkness all the more striking. A home run to start the year for Blumhouse!

“It’s a Wonderful Knife”

6.6

So… this one’s kind of dumb. I want to say “points for originality,” but it’s ripping off “Happy Death Day,” and 400 Christmas movies. It at least keeps the runtime tight, the kills bloody, and the hero’s relationship with her sidekick genuine and fulfilling. If you don’t expect too much, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. I’m glad smaller films like this are getting a shot at the multiplex while the studios grapple with the fallout from the writers and actors strikes.

“Thanksgiving”

8.3

I’ll be damned, this was the best slasher I’ve seen since “Terrifier 2!”

The story may have been a little cheesy, but everyone bought into the bit and plays their parts to perfection. The killer has the perfect mix of flair, originality, and humor. There’s a twist ending. The kills are magnificent. I really have no notes. I had high expectations with Eli Roth at the helm, but even I couldn’t have expected this. I laughed until I cried, I almost spilled my popcorn jumping with fright. Wow. Just a seal of approval and suggestion you enjoy this one if you dare (and have the stomach for some good ol’ fashioned gore)!

“Five Nights at Freddy’s”

7.1

I didn’t expect this much Freddy Krueger in my Freddy Fazbear.

The PG-13 rating only really took away from the gore factor with this one. The kills and the tension were still there. The story was stronger and had more depth to it than I expected. Even more-so if you’re a fan of the video games, as the gentlemen behind me were. It drops a lot of Easter eggs and deepens a great deal of the lore behind the (even more) twisted version of Chuck E Cheese.

A perfect cast and a strong story made for a strong outing by Blumhouse. Unlike the recent “Exorcist” reboot attempt, I found this one much more within their wheelhouse. With the perfect song choice. 🤌🏻