A Meta Take on Cliches of Cliches?

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MOVIE REVIEW
Bad CGI Gator
(adult content) –

Genre: Comedy, Horror
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 58m
Director(s): Danny Draven
Writer(s): Zalman Band
Cast: Sarah Buchanan, Rebecca Stoughton, Maddie Lane, Ben VanderMey, Michael Bonini, Cooper Drippe, Lee Fealy
Where To Watch: available on Full Moon Features November 24, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: So, how do you rate or criticize a film that is so self-aware of itself that it’s named BAD CGI GATOR? That was my challenge today, and then some. When starting this film, we are immediately struck by the film's unique blend of humor and the raw, unrefined charm of B-movies. Full Moon Features takes us on a journey to the swamps of Georgia during Spring Break, where a group of college graduates unwittingly give life to a menacing CGI alligator in their pursuit of internet fame. This film stands out for celebrating its imperfections, transforming them into a treasure trove of entertainment.

BAD CGI GATOR marks its territory in the Full Moon world by confidently embracing its B-movie roots. The film is self-aware, not shying away from its identity, and this quality ensures that its satirical sharpness remains intact throughout its concise 50-minute duration. Full Moon is known for leaning into the cheese, but this one takes the meta and goes full-bore!

We’re set in a remote cabin, as the film introduces us to college students on break, trying to make a name for themselves. Their quest for online popularity spirals out of control; with the flick of a wrist and a little accident, they transform an innocent alligator into a fearsome digital beast. The narrative unfolds with clear-cut chaos and a fight for survival, avoiding complicated plot structures in favor of the raw excitement of a predator on the prowl.

Under the guidance of director Danny Draven and writer Zalman Band, BAD CGI GATOR delivers a straightforward yet engaging narrative. The film’s production is a testament to compelling storytelling on a tight budget, with dialogue and characters that harken back to bygone eras. I’ve always been a major supporter of “working within your means” for horror films. Had this movie taken itself seriously and pretended that this was a super realistic gator, then I would have taken issue here. However, if you go into this expecting THE AVENGERS, that’s on you 100%, lol!

The cast infuses the film with an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. These characters seem like we know them, but they are also their unique cliches (is that a thing?) Their dramatically over-the-top performances contribute to the film's unique charm. They offer such a remarkable charm; even when you want to hate them, you can’t help but appreciate their ridiculous caricatures! In all its exaggerated splendor, the titular CGI alligator is a beautiful source of comedy in the film, and you can’t help but catch yourself smiling even in the most “terrible” moments.

The film's pacing is carefully controlled, concluding the story just as its deliberate absurdity threatens to overstay its welcome. This attention to rhythm results in a movie that appeals to dedicated fans of the genre and casual viewers looking for a light-hearted cinematic experience. No matter how lousy anything about the movie is, you can’t be made because it's all over with before you can process it.

BAD CGI GATOR is an enjoyable journey through low-budget horror cinema. Its brief runtime makes it an ideal choice for a horror movie night, encapsulating the enduring appeal of B-movies. The film is a vibrant example of how a movie's flaws can become its most charming and entertaining attributes.

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[photo courtesy of FULL MOON FEATURES]