Review of Laid to Rest (2009) by Jason H — 23 Apr 2009
Laid to Rest is a gory throwback to 80's slasher films. Yes, it's a blood-soaked orgy of blood and guts, but what writer-director Robert Hall has also done is back the violence up with a cast we can care about.
Bobbie Sue Luther, Kevin Gage and Sean Whalen all do good work as a trio stalked by a merciless, mask-wearing killer. The concept of a victim (Luther) not having any recollection of who she is or why she is being hunted is a good one, and puts a fresh spin on the genre.
The killer, referred to as Chromeskull in the end credits, is terrifying. He's a technically savvy Michael Myers and any motivation is hinted at more than explained. This is for the best.
What few flaws the film has rest in some of Hall's choices as a director. Laid to Rest is noisy, almost too much so, and this pulled me out of some scenes. A traditional orchestral score would have served the mood better than the heavy metal sound he went with. Metal is great, but I'm old school when it comes to things like this. This is a personal gripe and nothing more.
The violence also detracts. Although inventive, the kills become repetitive and numbing after awhile. Again, this is a personal preference as 80's slashers were all about the kills.
All said: Laid to Rest remains - alongside Hatchet, Cold Prey and Behind the Mask - a sincere tip of the hat to a subgenre many of us horror geeks grew up with.
This review of Laid to Rest (2009) was written by Jason H on 23 Apr 2009.
Laid to Rest has generally received mixed reviews.
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