Review of Compound Fracture (2013) by Craig H — 28 May 2013

Compound Fracture.

We find a couple stranded on the side of the road having to fix more than just their busted up mode of transportation; something is amiss between the occupants. Maybe it's the rebellious teenager who seems to be seeing and hearing things in the woods? Maybe it's the conflict of the couple busy debating family problems? Or is it the reluctance that someone doesn't want to visit his father? Maybe it is a little bit of everything. The movie raises the curiosity bar with every change of scenery as we follow this estranged trio into the family "compound" that has many evil roots. Somewhere paranormal activities and ritual folklore, this movie is not the blood and guts thrasher that I expected. Tyler Mane, Muse Watson and Derek Mears have huge fan bases in their respectable careers, but it was a fresh departure to step away from the hack and slash for a few hours. I don't recall seeing a rating review on the opening screen, but a stiff PG-13 (language, few violent images, minimal blood) will likely follow up here. Written by Renae Geerlings and acted very well in her role, the writer taps into many realms of folklore about family bonds, ritualistic imagery and vengeance in a dance between iconic horror greats who have to tap themselves into fulfilling roles without masks. Toss in a couple of on screen murders, add some cool ritual special effects (not CGI), put in place an actual plot about solving their dilemma, and have a satisfying ending (or is it? I could write a sequel to this movie) and you get to walk out of the theatre with a sense of satisfaction. Seeming to thread the fabric between horror and mystery, the film concluded with bringing the family closure while shedding the demons that try to stake hold in the family claim at the compound. 4 out of 5 stars for my review of the debut production from Mane Entertainment.