Review of John Dies at the End (2013) by Kevin J — 08 Jun 2013

Calling John Dies At The End one of the most spaced movies I've ever seen is an understatement. I am aware that the film is based on a novel ( although changes were made) but if I had to dissect the movie into ingredients I'd call it' part Bill and Ted meets Evil Dead 2 meets Dude Where's My Car meets They Live meets some random live action show on Adult Swim meant for stoners. I know that is a mouthful that still probably doesn't give you an idea of what this acid trip is about so allow me to attempt to explain the plot.

David is trying to publish a story and is telling his tale to a reporter played by Paul Giamatti named Arnie. The story is more or less about how David and John fought insect-like monsters , paranormal manifestations , and demons trying to take over Earth , all done across space, time , and dimensions. To call the plot lunacy is again an understatement as there's even more to it. Making its way around is a new drug that allows one to see these invisible creatures. The drug also acts as brain enhancement giving the user psychic attributes.

As stupid as everything I just said sounds there is a certain charm found within the movie that makes the insanity entertaining. However , in the final act the movie somewhat jumps a shark and becomes so ridiculous it just isn't fun anymore. The budget also shows during many scenes but if anything for me it added to the experience and made me feel like I was watching a grindhouse film from the 80's. Outside of being abnormally weird though there's just not much to the film besides trying to trip you out even further. There's a romantic sub-plot that's barely there , a beginning 20 minutes that feel duct-taped together and don't effectively portray what you will be watching outside of sheer randomness, and some very lame sexual humor.

For what's worth the two leads play off each other well from a comedic standpoint and the movie is at the very least something fun to watch once. Seriously though , if you do drugs , watch this movie.