There is, undoubtedly, a disgraceful lack of diversity within genre cinema. Despite the range of characters who contribute to horror films, the only voices we generally get to hear of those of the victims. What of the perpetrators? Who will stand up for them? The mass murderers and chainsaw wielding lunatics. Who will tell their story? Thankfully, Cody Calahan is here to address the balance in his new film, Vicious Fun.
Joel (Evan Marsh) is a likeable loser who despite his best efforts seems to come last in love. He spends his time writing scathing reviews of horror films and pining after his housemate, Sarah (Alexa Rose Steele). One night, in a bout of jealousy, he follows her to a Chinese restaurant to get some dirt on her date. However, after drowning his sorrows, he passes out in the toilet. When he wakes up, he finds himself in the middle of the strangest of support groups.
Vicious Fun does precisely what it says on the tin. The cleverness of the concept is matched by the certainty of the execution. It’s lively, entertaining and never scared to blow all your expectations out of the water. Whilst giving a nod and a wink to many genre staples, especially in its killers, Calahan is thoroughly inventive in his scheming. The cast is great and Marsh provides a central pivot for the other to slash and stab round. Vicious Fun is bloody marvellous.
Vicious Fun premières at Sitges Festival in Spain and screens at Monster Fest in Australia this month.
