Hells Gate

Hells Gate. Written and Directed by John Cecil. By Brian Kirst

Not so much a horror film as Quentin Tarantino inspired noir, Hells Gate satisfies with competent performances and some surprise twists.

Down on his luck Kevin (a superior Brian Faherty) is convinced by the slimy coke snorting Ben (an amazing Jeremy Cohen) to assist him in kidnapping the activist daughter of a public figure. Arranged by a slick contact, known only as Mr. Nobody, Kevin and Ben soon find themselves pawns in a dangerous scheme with their lives on the line.

Writer-Director John Cecil provides atmosphere that could work almost as well as a stage play. In fact many of character’s monologues, detailing their experiences degrading women, remind one of the writing of famed playwright/filmmaker Neil LaBute. Sometimes Cecil’s influences do show themselves too brightly, though. For instance, the manic Ben’s attachment to pop singers Jewel and Alanis Morrisette, strays too closely to the Reservoir Dogs’ obsession with Madonna. But those looking mainly for a pleasant viewing experience can possibly overlook such comparisons – particularly as this is essentially a solid and enjoyable feature film.

In fact, viewers in mood to take a break from the horrific antics of Jason and Jigsaw might ultimately find much to enjoy in Cecil’s hardboiled, heart filled world of Hells Gate.