Review of The Belko Experiment (2017) by Alex G — 30 Jun 2017

So close, but yet so far. I wanted to love it - have enjoyed pretty much all of James Gunn's output, and Greg McLean is responsible for one of my favourite ever 'creature features' in 'Rogue' but it doesn't quite reach the heights of either's best work.

Chock full of great ideas, and the writing is fantastic - the way the typical cinematic factions develop is very well executed, but unfortunately the cast isn't adept enough to make you care enough about the characters - there are notable exceptions (John C.McGinley is terrific in the kind of slimy role he excels in) but it is clear that the budget hasn't allowed for either more talented actors, or indeed anything like a competent set and location (some of the green-screen work and model shots are embarrassing) however the effects work is spectacular, with one of the most gruesome head-shots I can recall since '30 Days of Night'. If gore is your thing, then this delivers, and it gets pretty gruey at times.

Ultimately, it succeeds in the primary goal of a concept movie, in that it forces you to ask yourself 'what would I do in this situation?' And the scene where they decide who lives and who dies, is very well done (bordering on almost 'Final Solutions'-esque) but again, the blandness of the supporting cast curtails even this moment. Still, an entertaining watch, but no Battle Royale.