Cults, Comedy, and Chaos Collide

Read Time:4 Minute, 40 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Gothic Slayers
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 1h 41m
Director(s): Caleb Harris
Writer(s): Dylan Eshbaugh, Ben Getz
Cast: Ben Getz, Dylan Eshbaugh, Samantha Rothermel, Piper Verbrick, Quinn Hemphill, Jamie Day, Jasyon Bernard, David Andrew Morton, Sully Brown, Daniel Yaiullo, Melanie Rosedale
Where To Watch: on demand starting March 4, 2025

RAVING REVIEW: Indie horror comedies don’t always hit the perfect balance, but this one charges forward with a mix of absurdity and sincerity. What starts as a laid-back, small-town routine for two mini-golf employees takes a bizarre turn when their best friend is abducted by a cult, forcing them to face something far beyond their comprehension. The film embraces its chaotic energy, blending humor and horror in a way that feels like a nostalgic throwback while still carving out its own identity. It plays by its rules, creating a world where retro video games, supernatural forces, and offbeat comedy collide.

Director Caleb Harris brings a vision to this project shaped by years of experience in front of and behind the camera. His background in various aspects of filmmaking is evident in how the movie balances stylized comedy with genre elements, never feeling like a parody but instead committing to its bizarre world. The humor isn’t just tacked on—it’s baked into the DNA of the film, from the character interactions to the visual flourishes that give it a distinct personality.

At the heart of the movie is the dynamic between its leads, played by Ben Getz and Dylan Eshbaugh, who bring an effortless chemistry to their roles. Their long history of collaboration is clear in how they bounce off each other, turning even the most ridiculous moments into something ‘believable.’ Their comedic instincts guide the film’s tone, ensuring it never takes itself too seriously while keeping enough emotional weight to make the stakes feel real. The script reflects their shared sensibilities, filled with sharp dialogue and quick-witted exchanges that fit seamlessly into the film’s heightened reality.

A well-rounded supporting cast adds further layers of personality. Samantha Rothermel, Piper Verbrick, Quinn Hemphill, Daniel Yaiullo, Sully Brown, and Melanie Rosedale each bring something unique to the table, making the ensemble feel unique and distinct. Whether playing into the comedy or leaning into the horror elements, they help maintain the film’s unpredictable energy. Even when the narrative gets wild, the performances ensure that the characters never feel like caricatures.

The setting plays a major role in shaping the film’s identity. Filmed in Havre de Grace, Maryland, the production benefits from a sense of authenticity from a team deeply connected to its location. The town becomes part of the film’s core, with locals contributing in big and small ways—from stepping in as extras to lending props for key scenes. This kind of grassroots filmmaking gives the movie a unique charm, a reminder that independent projects can thrive when a community rallies behind them.

Music plays a vital role in amplifying the film’s energy. The soundtrack isn’t just background noise—it actively enhances the shifts in tone, moving from lighthearted to ominous with ease. A mix of original compositions and carefully chosen tracks creates a fresh, retro soundscape. The use of synth-heavy, arcade-style music, in particular, helps bridge the gap between the film’s real-world and video game-inspired sequences, adding to the immersive experience.

The film is a confident and imaginative take on genre storytelling. It wholeheartedly embraces its weirdness, delivering a fast-paced, visually inventive ride that feels personal in all the right ways. This isn’t a film trying to cater to everyone—it knows exactly what it is and leans into its strengths, which makes it stand out in a crowded indie horror landscape. While it might not be for those looking for a traditional horror experience, fans of unconventional, offbeat storytelling will find plenty to love.

Ultimately, this movie leaves an impression through its creativity, commitment to its genre-blending tone, and willingness to take risks. It reminds us that independent films don’t need to play by conventional rules to make an impact. Some will connect with it instantly, while others may find it too strange, but one thing’s for sure—it’s not easily forgotten.

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[photo courtesy of CRANKED UP FILMS]

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