A group of young folks go on a weekend camping trip in the woods. They run afoul of a vicious madman (a frightening portrayal by Brian Gallagher) whose notorious exploits are the stuff of local urban legend. Writer/director Jason Christopher relates the absorbing story at a quick pace, makes good use of the isolated sylvan setting, generates a considerable amount of tension, and delivers the grisly goods with the jolting moments of bloody'n'brutal violence. Christopher warrants extra kudos for giving the psycho a tragic and touching back story that makes him fairly sympathetic instead of completely hateful. Moreover, it's acted with zest by a game no-name cast, with especially praiseworthy work by Jen Dance as the troubled Jenn, David J. Bonner as the decent Deron, Chelsey Garner as the spunky Michele, Matthew Nadu as the jerky Danny, and Nikki Bell as the foxy Angie. Clint Howard pops up in a nice minor part as a doctor. The make-up effects are quite gruesome and impressive. Joseph Hennigan's crisp cinematography gives the picture a pleasing slick look while the constantly moving camera adds plenty of raw crackling energy. Gene Micofsky's shuddery score hits the bone-ratting spot. The tight 77 minute running time ensures that this movie never becomes tedious or overstays its welcome. Recommended viewing for slice'n'dice flick fans.
Review of Nobody Gets Out Alive
