"Ten horror movie reviewers are invited to a party by the host of the HorrorDVDZone website. The party is in full swing when the power and the lights abruptly go out. A mysterious, black-hooded figure has cut the main wiring.The party's over..."
DEAD HUNT is loaded with action, blood, gore, and thrills; it plays like an updated version of Vincent Price's "Theatre of Blood" meets "Scream." It is also legendary cult film producer Don Dohler's last completed film (RIP).
Out of all the movies Timewarp Films has put out, this has the most professional, theatrical sheen to it. It also hearkens back to an earlier time, when horror slasher films had higher production values and were taken seriously. Don't get me wrong; there are some light touches of humor to be had, but when things get tense, all kidding is left aside and this movie grips you by the throat. Some of the opening party scenes could have been edited just a little tighter, but once the lights go out this movie is a non-stop roller-coaster ride.
Stand out performances come from actors Dennis Hill, Anne Marie Barbour, Justin Timpane, Sara Cole, Joe Ripple, and JP Barry. Scream Queen Leanna Chamish has a fun time parodying herself in this flick, and veteran character actor George Stover makes a cameo appearance. Don Dohler provides stylish lighting and camera work, and both he and Joe Ripple share the directing credits. The orchestrative score by composer Justin Timpane is incredible, and adds a lot to the eerie, moody deaths scenes. Eric Strauss' screenplay has some clever touches to it.
What's cool is the Two DVD set comes jam-packed with extras: commentary, bloopers, making of, deleted scenes, stills gallery, etc. Nice for an indie flick like this. The cover art has the look that reminds the viewer of classic slasher films like "My Bloody Valentine," "Terror Train," and "Happy Birthday To Me" without using that scratchy rust-colored "SAW" look all current horror movies seem to be guilty of copying. Bottom line is this is a fun horror film that I liked a lot, and I hope it finds an audience. Recommended.
