My quick rating - 7.2/10. This flick is a gripping piece of horror that delivers bone-crunching action and a surprisingly effective storyline. It's a film that knows how to use its violence to maximum effect and earn that "R" rating. I was a bit concerned after seeing the trailers that this flick was going to dumb down the whole vampire thing and shy away from the horror side but I was glad to see that didn't happen. The plot revolves around a group of would-be criminals who kidnap the 12-year-old daughter of a powerful underworld figure, aiming to collect a hefty ransom of $50 million. The task seems simple enough: watch the girl overnight in an isolated mansion until the ransom is paid. However, things take a terrifying turn when the captors start to dwindle, one by one, and they realize they're locked inside with something far from a normal little girl. One of the film's strengths lies in its simplicity. It doesn't rely on convoluted plots or over-the-top action sequences to engage its audience. Instead, it focuses on a tight, suspenseful story that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. The characters are a diverse bunch of misfits, each with their own quirks and flaws, which adds depth and allows me to actually connect with some more than others. I would think that helps for anyone watching since it gives you a few choices of character type to choose from. As the tension rises and the body count mounts, you can't help but feel a sense of dread mixed with dark humor. I loved the exaggerated use of bone-crunching noises to accentuate the violence. It's not for the faint-hearted, but for those who appreciate gritty, visceral action, it's a treat. When anyone, hero or villain, gets smashed or thrown against a wall, you sure as hell feel that pain through your ears. Overall, it is a bloody and intense ride that delivers on its promises. It's a film that knows what it wants to be and executes it well, making it a must-watch for fans of dark thrillers that allow the vampires to bear their fangs.
top of page
bottom of page