In its renaissance slasher movies were all of the rage. Teenagers across the country would flock to movie theaters with their popcorn in hand to watch the newest pack of terrified kids. Nowadays the serial killer trope is kind of played out. Horror is an innovative genre so like creators have been doing for generations, certain movies twist our expectations and give us something we truly enjoy. This is exactly what Duncan Skiles 2018 film “The Clovehitch Killer” has done.

Concept

Serial Killers have interested the public since the beginning of media so it is no surprise that they still hold our attention. These people hold so much over us that we sit around and watch true crime documentaries over them to determine whether or not we think the right person was caught. Somewhere deep inside the idea of terror and mystery pleases us. Some audiences go as far as doing their own research over certain cases that caught their attention. Now what if the serial killer case you are working slowly tells you that your own father might be a suspect. This is exactly what Duncan Skiles and Christopher Ford ( director and writer) explore in their film. A unique concept fused with a truly enthralling story makes “The Clovehitch Killer stand out among its peers.

Atmosphere

It is undeniably uncomfortable to be given the “talk” by your father. It does not matter how cool you are but when your dad sits down and tries to explain the birds and the bees to you, it is pretty scarring. Now what if this talk takes place in a garage that you think your dad is hiding evidence of his killings. This is just one of the many situations that the young protagonist finds himself in. An air of awkwardness and unease are littered throughout this film. Every interaction and scene inside of the family home and around the town feels odd. Something feels wrong but for some reason you just can’t place it. This film really knows how to build tension. It is like a demented jack in the box and when the jack finally jumps out you may have a heart attack.

Performance

The performances throughout the film are pretty solid. There are some character choices that seem odd at times but it does not take away from the movie so much. Charlie Plummer and Madison Beaty are good as the teenage investigators. Their chemistry is on point and their lines are delivered sharp and smoothly. Especially Plummer who has to play the role of unsuspecting that is secretly investigating his own father. Easily though the best performance comes from the possible killer himself Dylan McDermott. He somehow balances corny dad jokes and murderous intent rather well. The interactions with his son and surrounding characters feel somewhat natural but it is always somewhat uncomfortable. McDermott really leans in to this role and seems to be having a tone of fun. He brings an energy to the screen that is inescapable. Every time he appears you will be locked to your TV.

Conclusion

“The Clovehitch Killer” will delight and entertain fans of many genres. It has elements of true horror, action, drama and thrillers. The film seems nostalgic in some respects but maintains its unique and twisting story. After being recommended this movie myself I did not know what to expect but that is the best way to watch it. Going in with too much in your head might cloud the experience and in reality I rank this movie as one of my favorites I have seen in a while. It is not a big budget release but the attention it is getting is well-deserved and is worth checking out. After all, many of us have nothing but time.