Reviews

An interesting idea involving an alternative dimension inside a hospital. It recalled - Stephen Kings "Langoliers", "Kingdom Hospital" and old twilight zone episodes. Atmospherically strong, the set up was great. There were also some very clever 'time loop' moments which always have that head-melt appeal. The story had plenty of vague references which led me to believe that all the ensuing weirdness of - time slips / ghosts / a weird bat winged demon and a rather silly heavy metal attired ghoul-thing would be explained. And THAT was were Dark Floors severely let me down. Based on my viewing the movie gives NO EXPLANATION as to what is behind the events. Whilst, some ambiguity is always expected/welcome in these kind of films. Dark floors took it to new heights of vagueness. I don't expect things wrapped up in a pretty ribbon, but neither should I be left feeling "Huh? .. is that it? ... Did I dose off? Maybe, I hit chapter skip by mistake?" Dark Floors left me with a deeply unsatisfying suspicion that "It was all a dream" which is a shame because up until the last reel I was very much on board and enjoying the movie.

The plot follows a guilt ridden, Trainee, Doctor who administers an untested drug to a voyeuristic, loner (… never a good idea.) The drug sends his brainwaves berserk (… told you.) and gives him the ability to - leave his comatose state, possess people and indulge in a spot of bloody vengeance (… Nice.)

The "I know what you did Last Summer." "Patrick." combo will be familiar. However, the execution in Freakdog remains consistently clever and thoroughly engaging. The Possession / Body Hopping angle produces a storyline with its fair share of inventive killings and surprising plot twists.

An accomplished, pleasing to the eye cast, set about their roles with gusto. The highlights being Arielle Kebbel as a guilty medic, Martin Compston the groups scheming mouth piece, Andrew Lee Potts, the deadly, comatose 'Freakdog' of the title and Stephen Dillane a slippery Senior Doctor.

As well as ably handled scares and moments of deliciously, dark humour, Freakdog maintains a palpable air of suspense throughout.

The 'gore quota' includes - skull crushing, stabbing, self mutilation, and a particularly nasty acid guzzling incident. As such, the film more than meets its visceral remit. However, it doesn't wallow in it at the expense of the story. Which in my view is a big plus.

Kudos to the Director for taking a mature approach to what could have been yet another gratuitous gore-fest. The, Asian influenced, imagery makes the most of the hospital setting and adds to the dark, claustrophobic tone.

Overall, Freakdog represents a solid entry to the genre. Consistently, clever, creepy and shocking. Hopefully, it is a sign of exciting things to come from Northern Ireland. Well worth a look. HH