MOVIE REVIEW
Scared Shitless
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 16m
Director(s): Vivieno Caldinelli
Writer(s): Brandon Cohen
Cast: Steven Ogg, Daniel Doheny, Mark McKinney
Where To Watch: showing at the 2024 The Vancouver Horror Show Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: In the world of horror-comedy, SCARED SHITLESS carves out a niche with its ingenious blend of suspense and laughter, framed around a seemingly mundane day of plumbing that spirals into a surreal confrontation with a nightmare. The film revolves around Don (Steven Ogg) and his son Sonny (Daniel Doheny), plumbers thrust into an extraordinary situation beneath the bowels of an apartment complex where not just the pipes but also monstrous creations block their path.

From the get-go, the routine of father and son is disrupted by the emergence of a grotesque creature, a byproduct of a scientific experiment gone awry. This terrifying addition to the apartment complex escalates the stakes and embodies the hazardous impacts of meddling with nature. The beast’s relentless pursuit of the residents catalyzes Sonny and Don to display unexpected valor, effectively grounding the supernatural aspects of SCARED SHITLESS with relatable acts of bravery and quick thinking.

Don, portrayed by Ogg, is a character of contradictions; his rugged exterior masks a reservoir of vulnerability. Ogg’s nuanced performance adds considerable depth to the narrative. Doheny as Sonny perfectly complements this with a role that captures the essence of a young man wrestling with grief while facing literal monsters, providing a compelling look at overcoming fears. Chelsea Clark, the building manager, Patricia, introduces a subtle romantic thread that enriches the storyline without overwhelming the primary focus.

The film showcases a dedication to practical effects, orchestrated under the guidance of the wizard Steven Kostanski. Opting for traditional techniques over CGI, the creature is rendered with remarkable craftsmanship, combining puppetry and prosthetics to create a repulsive and riveting entity. This commitment enhances the authenticity of the monstrous encounters and pays tribute to the classic elements of horror filmmaking, appealing to a broad spectrum of cinema enthusiasts.

However, SCARED SHITLESS does stumble in its execution in one key area, particularly in fleshing out the creature’s backstory. The plot briskly navigates the potential of the mad scientist trope, skimming over what could have been a layered exploration of the creature’s origins. 

Despite these narrative missteps, the film excels with its pacing and meticulous action choreography. Director Vivieno Caldinelli balances the scales between humor and horror, ensuring neither element eclipses the other. The showdown, where the protagonists unite to confront their collective nightmare, brilliantly encapsulates the movie’s core themes of solidarity and overcoming adversity, all while weaving in a healthy dose of humor.

SCARED SHITLESS stands out as a memorable foray into the horror-comedy domain, distinguished by its heartfelt narrative, strategic humor, and suspenseful sequences. While it may not redefine the genre, it firmly establishes itself with robust performances, innovative direction, and a solid commitment to the art of practical effects. Offering more than typical genre thrills, the film invites audiences to witness how an ordinary setting can unravel into a remarkable saga of survival and discovery. Don’t let the title fool you; there is something special here!

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[photo courtesy of HAPPY CAT PRODUCTIONS]

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