Camp and Chaos: a Wild Ride Through the Woods

Read Time:4 Minute, 22 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Cocaine Werewolf
–

Genre: Comedy, Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 19m
Director(s): Mark Polonia
Writer(s): Ford Austin, Tyger Torrez
Cast: Jeff Kirkendall, Marie DeLorenzo, Jamie Morgan, Brice Kennedy, Ken Van Sant, Tim Hatch
Where To Watch: available August 13, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.cleorecs.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: So when you prepare to watch a film titled COCAINE WEREWOLF, you better be able to set your expectations correctly. Then, when you see Mark Polonia, one half of the dynamic duo known as the Polonia Brothers, you know what you’re in for! In the eerie woods of Pennsylvania, chaos erupts on the set of a low-budget horror movie when a drug-addled werewolf crashes the scene. This unexpected twist transforms an ordinary film shoot into a wild, surreal ride that meshes dark humor with genuine thrills. Directed by Polonia, a veteran of indie horror, the movie reveals its B-movie roots, balancing self-parody with spine-tingling craziness.

Right from the start, the movie hooks viewers with a subplot featuring an unassuming couple. This subplot takes a horrific turn and perfectly sets the stage for the ensuing madness. As the main plot thickens, the film crew discovers a corporate executive whose cocaine addiction has turned him into a rampaging werewolf; yep, that’s what you’re getting here, and that’s okay! This central figure's frenzied antics drive the film into delightfully absurd territory, showcasing a narrative as unconventional as it is engaging.

The film's soundscape is an eclectic mix of gothic and industrial rock, masterfully compiled by Cleopatra Records. Tracks from bands like THE 69 CATS lend a gritty, atmospheric vibe that beautifully clashes with the visual elements, enhancing the film’s distinctive, quirky charm.

On the technical front, COCAINE WEREWOLF meets the typical standards expected from a budget-conscious production. With its overly dramatic “makeup,” crazy effects, and glowing eyes, the werewolf mask is undoubtedly something, although its store-bought nature slightly detracts from its fear factor. The film employs minimalistic effects that suggest rather than showcase the horrors, adhering to a less-is-more philosophy reminiscent of classic B-movies. Ultimately, I think this helps the film, as some of Polina’s other films push too hard!

The film's clever, meta-humorous take on indie filmmaking is a highlight, with scenes that peel back the curtain on the challenges and shortcuts inherent in low-budget productions. These moments provide fun and a thoughtful critique of the filmmaking process, allowing COCAINE WEREWOLF to transcend mere parody.

As with most films like this, the pacing is all over the place. The anticipation builds slowly with the werewolf's entrance and some initial disjointed sequences, which may test some viewers' patience. But as the horror elements intensify, the story ramps to a thrilling pace, with the doomed characters meeting their fate in true B-movie style.

COCAINE WEREWOLF doesn’t hold back on nudity and risqué themes, using these elements more as functional parts of the narrative than mere shock value. The film's humor spans from witty to wince-inducing, with playful digs at typical horror clichés injecting fun into the mix.

For gritty, unpolished B-movies fans, COCAINE WEREWOLF is a delightful treat. It's best enjoyed in the company of friends, with expectations set for a non-stop blend of laughs and scares. The film celebrates the idiosyncrasies of B-movie culture with unabashed humor and a knowing nod to its audience, promising a wildly entertaining journey through an absurdly exaggerated scenario.

This film is a must-see for devotees of Polonia’s work and the B-movie genre. It is a testament to the charm of low-budget filmmaking, delivering a riotous viewing experience that wholeheartedly embraces the camp and spectacle beloved by genre enthusiasts.

Bonus Materials:
BLU RAY version includes an exclusive “Director’s Commentary” feature not available in any other formats!”
Includes Trailers & Slide Show

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of CLEOPATRA ENTERTAINMENT, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.