A Playful Start That Ends in Pure Chaos

Read Time:5 Minute, 6 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
April Fool's Day (4KUHD)
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Genre: Horror, Mystery
Year Released: 1986, 2025 Kino Lorber 4K
Runtime: 1h 29m
Director(s): Fred Walton
Writer(s): Danilo Bach
Cast: Deborah Foreman, Griffin O'Neal, Clayton Rohner, Jay Baker, Amy Steel, Pat Barlow, Deborah Goodrich, Lloyd Berry, Tom Heaton, Leah Pinsent, Ken Olandt, Tom Wilson
Where To Watch: available now, order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: The magic of 1980s horror lies in its unique ability to combine the campy and the creepy, creating a formula that feels nostalgic and exciting, even when revisited decades later. This film is no exception. It’s a quintessential slasher that leans on classic tropes while finding ways to innovate. Its blend of humor and suspense keeps audiences entertained. However, it has imperfections and an undeniable charm that resonants resonates decades later, making it a standout in a genre that thrives on thrills.

The setup is simple but effective: a group of college friends gather at an isolated island home for what they expect to be a lighthearted weekend escape. The premise checks all the boxes for a traditional horror setting—a secluded location, limited access to outside help, and a crazy cast of characters. However, the film goes beyond the surface, using these familiar elements as a springboard for something more dynamic. It begins with an intentionally playful tone, featuring pranks and gags that range from harmlessly funny to outright ridiculous. This initial silliness cleverly disguises the darkness lurking beneath, lulling the audience into a false sense of security.

What makes the film particularly engaging is how it uses these early scenes to build tension. The humor, while entertaining, feels purposeful, serving as a thematic device to highlight the shift from lighthearted fun to genuine fear. As the pranks escalate in complexity, the sense of unease grows. When one of the group members goes missing, the stakes become clear. Suddenly, the weekend getaway transforms into a nightmare, and the once-bonded group unravels under fear and mistrust.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its pacing. It carefully divides the narrative into distinct acts, each with a specific tone and focus. The opening acts establish the characters, allowing the audience to form attachments and invest in their fates. This connection pays off when the horror unfolds, making the characters’ struggles feel more immediate and impactful. The final act ties everything together with a twist that recontextualizes much of what came before, leaving viewers with a satisfying conclusion.

One of the film's most memorable aspects is its use of setting. With its winding paths, dense woods, and almost eerie quiet, the island feels like a core concept. The sense of isolation amplifies the tension, making every shadow and creak seem more sinister. The house, initially a cozy retreat, becomes more menacing as the story progresses. Its hidden corners become sources of dread, adding to the atmosphere of suspense.

The film’s commitment to its premise is commendable. It doesn’t shy away from the inherent absurdity of its setup, instead leaning into it with confidence. This self-awareness allows the story to navigate its more outlandish elements without losing credibility. While not particularly deep, the characters are likable enough to keep the audience invested. Their reactions to the events feel authentic, adding to the film’s weight.

Another highlight is the twist ending, which delivers a satisfying payoff. It’s a testament to the filmmakers’ ability to craft a cohesive narrative despite its tone shifts. Director Fred Walton brings a steady hand to the proceedings, ensuring transitions between humor and horror. His experience in the genre shines through, making the film a standout example of 1980s slasher filmmaking.

Despite any imperfections, the film remains a testament to the creativity of its era. It captures the spirit of 80s horror, blending humor, suspense, and scares. Whether revisiting it for nostalgia or experiencing it for the first time, it reminds audiences why horror continues to resonate with audiences. It’s not just a product of its time—it’s a celebration of what makes the genre great.

Product Extras:
DISC 1 – THE MOVIE (4KUHD):
Brand New HDR/Dolby Vision Master – From a 4K Scan of the 35mm Original Camera Negative
NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historians Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell, and Nathaniel Thompson
5.1 Surround and Lossless 2.0 Audio
Triple-Layered UHD100 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

DISC 2 – BONUS FEATURES (ALL-REGION BLU-RAY):
Horror with a Twist – Part 1: Interview with Director Fred Walton (23:58)
Horror with a Twist – Part 2: Interview with Director Fred Walton (23:02)
Well of Lies: Interview with Actress Deborah Goodrich Royce (16:32)
Looking Forward to Dessert: Interview with Actor Clayton Rohner (17:15)
Bloody Unforgettable: Interview with Composer Charles Bernstein (26:00)
The Eye of Deception: Interview with Cinematographer Charles Minsky (17:23)
TV Spots (1:35)
Theatrical Trailer (1:42)
Dual-Layered BD50 Disc

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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