BLOODY REUNION

Walking the frail, delicate, often illusionary thematic and stylistic tight-rope between the psychological and surreal boundaries of mind and soul that has preoccupied mankind since the earliest stories were spun beneath moonlight, Bloody Reunion comes along to make new what was old again. This revision of the Slasher and revenge film is also a disquieting psychological vivisection and study of relationships, focusing on the deterioration of the mind . . . Until it snaps! Transforming ancient themes and archetypes into startling new celebrations of shock and outrage, the minds behind this outrageous, convincing nightmare invite introspection and intellectual curiosity at the same time they shock and repeal with bodily carnage. Without exception, this flick takes no prisoners and truly summarize what it means to challenge audiences.

A plot seeped in bloodshed and emotional violence, the excesses of the mind in turmoil are more disturbing herein than the physical terrors -- quite an achievement, considering you'll find torturous viscera herein that will undoubtedly send moronic mainstream critics crying 'torture porn!' (you see, it is easier for them to do that than actually critique the films that they summarily dismiss). This horror hybrid is both an homage to and experimental challenge to established horror formula. Equal parts teen-kill Slasher goodness and the more mean spirited realism of the psychological serial killer epics that deny good times in favor of a more honest, less enjoyable approach to mental cruelty, Bloody Reunion features a group of former classmates visiting their wheelchair confined teacher Ms. Park after a lapse of sixteen years. They arrive for this semi class reunion/ pilgrimage at her country cottage before she is to die, and amidst good natured, well intentioned remembrances, an undercurrent of dread, anger, and psychosis is revealed. These ex-friends have changed during the years, or perhaps have came to more easily accept the darkness inside themselves. An assortment of alcoholics, addicts, and crass consumers living without any moral center or purpose beyond their expense accounts and image, these 'friends' soon lay the blame on their old teacher's schooling methods . . . Which doesn't bide well for anyone. Before you know it, the party turns into a nightmare of old wounds reopened, grudges, and bloody revelations. One by one, the party is dispatched in spectacularly brutal fashion as identities are deconstructed.

Bloody Reunion evokes the mystery and psychotic loneliness of human nature, diving deep into the psyche's frailty. This is a movie devoted to unearthing horror not in the graves of supernatural fantasy but in the uneven corridors of the human mind, battering audiences over the head (and in the heart) with images and plot developments that strain not only their willingness to be scared but their vulnerability to emotional pain. Macabre in the best possible way, the realism of the characters and the dramatic situations invite sympathy and shock, making the horrible violence, when it occurs (which is often!) all the more upsetting. Madness, loss, and betrayal are key figures in this well planned narrative, structured for maximum suspense . . . until the first moments of explosive carnage. Most impressive, and a reason for the film's success, is the fact that the generous amounts of physical violence are mirrored by emotional struggle. Genuine moments of inspired viciousness bombard us. Dripping with both blood and emotion, the themes of relationships, and the malignant effect of the past on the present, are given a subversive emphasis. Celebrating the will to survive, this movie is comparable in effect to such shockers as Last House on the Left and Night Train, albeit with more blood and intellect. Best of all, this gritty nightmare follows its premise with nihilistic faith.

Bloody Reunion is presented in anamorphic widescreen. Hand-held photography and occasionally experimental camera movements make for an effectively claustrophobic atmosphere. Picture is without grain or dirt, clean and clear, with convincing flesh tones and atmosphere. Audio consists of both Dolby Digital and DTS, both of which are clean and efficient, doing their job well, while the DTS track is slightly better. Sound editing is professional, with equal, nicely blended distribution between sound effects and dialogue.

Similar to other DVDs these days, the extras for Bloody Reunion are a mixture of intriguing, informative analysis and filler, including a brief Interview with the Director, Deleted Scenes, and Trailers (including the feature). 'The Making of Bloody Reunion' is the usual stretched out hype, best suited for those who enjoy watching a crew at its various tasks. The segment on Special Effects offers a look at the film's makeup while the Photo Shoot features promotional photography of the film. These later features are superior to the early portions, as are the brief if involving Deleted Scenes, which include Director Commentary. Bloody damned good!

Review by William P. Simmons