My quick rating - 6,1/10. Not a bad flick at all which weaves an unsettling tale that may haunt your dreams long after the credits roll. Set against the backdrop of a quaint Midwestern town in the early 1960s, the film captures the essence of Halloween horror, infusing the screen with an eerie atmosphere and spine-chilling suspense. At the heart of the film lies the legend of October Boy or Sawtooth Jack, a monstrous entity rising from the cornfields with a butcher knife in hand, ready to strike fear into the hearts of those who dare to face him. Director David Slade successfully transports the audience to a bygone era, meticulously recreating the early 60s look with impeccable attention to detail. I was impressed with the vintage costumes and the rustic small-town setting, every frame oozes authenticity, enhancing the immersive experience for the viewers. What sets it apart from other horror films of this genre is its willingness to embrace the darkness within human nature (the scene with the mother is what may stick in your dreams). The characters are richly developed, each struggling with their inner demons while battling the external threat of October Boy. Both Casey Likes and Emyri Crutchfield as the unexpected heroes, emphasized this turmoil and acted beyond the norm for a typical horror flick. The film delves deep into their fears, vulnerabilities, and desires, making them relatable even in the face of supernatural terror. The cast delivers stellar performances, breathing life into their roles and adding depth to the narrative. It was disturbingly accurate in how quickly the masses would turn to such a primal and brutal response. I really enjoyed the flix unapologetic embrace of gore and visceral horror. The kills are shockingly graphic, leaving you squirming on the couch while simultaneously marveling at the creativity and artistry behind each death. The special effects team deserves commendation for their impeccable work, crafting horrifying and oddly beautiful scenes in their macabre composition. The pacing is taut, keeping you intrigued throughout its brisk 93-minute runtime. The film expertly builds tension, utilizing silence and subtle cues to create a dread-like atmosphere. Each encounter with Sawtooth Jack is a heart-pounding experience, amplified by the brilliant cinematography. I will say it occasionally falters in its reliance on jump scares, a trope that, while effective, feels somewhat predictable but I think we are used to that. However, this minor flaw is easily overshadowed by the film's impact and ability to elicit genuine fear. I have to say the way this flick wrapped up the whole idea was pretty smart as well. The entire flick offers a fresh, terrifying perspective on the genre. With its gripping storyline, decent performances, and visually stunning gore, it stands as a testament to the power of horror to both disturb and captivate. Brace yourselves, for once you enter the world of Dark Harvest, there's no turning back, this is #Shocktober entertainment worth checking out.
