There’s so many bad puns I can use throughout my review with the title, Run Like Hell, but I’m going to hold off because I actually really dug this movie during my viewing on Monday night. That tells you something, when I hold the sarcasm back!
Run Like Hell is written and directed by James Thomas with Canyon Prince and Joseph Schnaudt. Prince also stars in this horror-thriller alongside Dave Finn, Robyn Buck (Hard Sun), Tamara Carey (18 Year Old Virgin), J Michael Briggs, Ben Begley (The Hungover Games), Aaron Rice, Kurtis Bedford, and Jessica Cameron (Truth or Dare).
“When four friends end up stranded in the small town of Spaulding, one local family offers help. The family’s real motives become terrifyingly obvious, as the couples find themselves fighting for their lives.”
My first impressions going into Run Like Hell were that it was going to be a Texas Chainsaw Massacre for a new generation. After my viewing, it became apparent that this is not the case. Not because Run Like Hell is bad, but because this film only holds the barest resemblances to the iconic feature in its opening moments. Both movies also take place in completely different parts of the world, so… I think I was wrong with my original assumptions, and I’m glad to see Run Like Hell has its own unique style.
What I enjoyed the most about the movie was the writing, primarily in regards to the character developing areas and how they directly relate to the plot. I don’t want to spoil any parts of the movie for you, but this title contains two very interesting “switch-er-oos.” Often in story telling – whether it be in a thriller or horror title – there tends to be a very specific formula as the story evolves. It was invigorating to me as a viewer to see a movie that breaks that formula and heads down a path very few filmmakers are willing to take. The “switch-er-oos” are certainly a big risk, but I think they really pay off this time around. It shows that the writers have the balls to do something out of the box and I can’t wait to see the movies they make in the future. They’re going to be ones to watch no matter what genre they work in.
The second thing I enjoyed the most about Run Like Hell is that it is a perfect combination of horrific elements, thrilling elements, and, yes, even a little comedy thrown into the mix. The comedy mostly comes in the form of funny, over-exaggerated reactions to the peril and silly gags like slipping and falling in vomit. This is kind of just an extra bonus after all the bloodshed showcased throughout the entire movie. There’s lots of torture, lots of gun fights, lots of stabbing, running, cat and mouse games, screaming, cursing, car chases, and even an attempted rape. It’s basically the worst vacation a person could ever have, but I think people are going to dig it. There is a ton of gore and blood showcased to keep even the most demented fan satisfied. The film is gritty and unnerving, and it does a great job of combining different genres into one cohesive film. Again, a major nod to the great writing and also a nod to the talented cast who gave stellar performances.
I’m trying to think of something I didn’t like about the movie, but I can’t really find one. Looking back on it now, I was transfixed to the screen the entire time and found myself invested in the characters. A couple times I actually had a response for the bad guys like I was in the movie myself. I even asked if there was a water boy on set, which thankfully no one answered so I know I’m not crazy. One thing I’m looking forward to is the DVD release of Run Like Hell. I’m hoping it’s going to have deleted/alternate scenes and behind-the-scenes material because I’d love to see what it was like on set while filming. This whole paragraph is mostly random thoughts jumbled together, but it does prove a point: I really liked this movie. It was realistic, shot expertly, written beautifully, had great performances from the cast, and it appeals to the majority of movie goers. And, most of all, it’s going to be a movie that you’ll want to watch again in the future. I think that’s what I was going for here!
I’m going to rate Run Like Hell an 8 out of 10. Good job, guys!
Are you on meth? Seriously ‘Run like hell’ is the worst horror movie I’ve ever seen!
I wonder if you even saw it. or are you just an internet troll?
If you liked that one, I found another of their movies and it was amazing! Check out their movie, Hard Sun. Great storyline and characters.