MOVIE REVIEW
Hell Is a Teenage Girl
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Genre: Horror, Short
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 15m
Director(s): Stephen Sawchuk
Writer(s): Stephen Sawchuk
Cast:  Skylar Radzion, Zenia Marshall, Kevin Osea, Jill Morrison, Faly Mevamanana, Mar Anderson
Where To Watch: shown at the 2024 Fantasia International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: October in Springboro brings more than just autumn leaves; it heralds a chilling tradition where the youth of this town face peril under strict moral laws enforced by a menacing Slasher. At the vortex of this horror is Parker Campbel (Skylar Radzion), entangled deeply in this dark saga crafted by none other than her father. In a quest to reclaim her innocence and bring peace back to her community, Parker engages directly with her father’s terrifying legacy.

HELL IS A TEENAGE GIRL marries terror with comedy, creating a thrilling ride that nods respectfully to the slasher films of the '90s while infusing a modern twist. Radzion delivers a compelling performance as Parker, bringing layers of complexity and defiance that enrich the narrative. Her interaction with Reilly, played by Faly Mevamanana, adds a lighter, more spirited dynamic that contrasts sharply with the film's darker themes.

This film, directed by Stephen Sawchuk, rejuvenates the slasher genre by blending nostalgic elements with innovative twists, appealing to newcomers and genre enthusiasts alike. The blend of sharp wit and authentic scares honors the spirit of its predecessors and cements its place as a standout contemporary horror flick.

Shot over a swift three days in Vancouver, HELL IS A TEENAGE GIRL showcases a talented all-Canadian cast and crew whose dedication shines through. The film's recognition on the festival circuit, securing awards at significant events like the WorldFest-Houston and Cannes Indie International Film Festivals, speaks volumes about its quality.

The movie concludes with a powerful cliffhanger. Parker’s unresolved expression teases the audience with the possibility of more twisted tales. This ending leaves viewers both satisfied and craving further exploration of Sawchuk’s eerie universe. The world needs more of this world; if this is what we could get in 15 minutes, I would love to see what a feature could deliver!

The anticipated progression from a short to a full-length feature is well-supported by a solid narrative base and warm reception from audiences and critics alike. This highlights the film's promising future and Sawchuk’s commitment to this artistic vision.

With its clever homage to traditional horror and fresh creative twists, HELL IS A TEENAGE GIRL offers a unique viewing experience. The film mixes suspense with humor, led by Radzion's exceptional performance and high production standards, setting it apart from typical indie horror offerings.

HELL IS A TEENAGE GIRL pays homage to the classic vibes of '90s slasher films with a contemporary flair and an in-your-face meta aspect, creating an engaging and memorable horror experience. Its fun-filled horror plot, sharp dialogue, and vivid character portrayals lay a solid foundation for the future. As it’s sure to continue to garner acclaim, it remains a testament to its capacity for growth, keeping viewers eagerly anticipating what Sawchuk and his team will unveil next.

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[photo courtesy of LITTLE PSYCHO PRODUCTIONS, SAWCHUK PRODUCTIONS]

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