Directed by: Sean Byrne
Starring: Xavier Samuel, Robin McLeavy, Victoria Thaine, Jessica McNamee, Richard Wilson
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Distributed by: Paramount
Release Date: September 11, 2012
Running Time: 84 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1.5 out of 5 stars
“The Loved Ones” is a a 2009 Australian horror film that is just seeing the light of day in the US, thanks to Paramount. Australian horror has been known to be extremely intense like “Wolf Creek” and this film is no different. There is a certain comedic approach to this film, so it leans back a little otherwise it would be so brutal. As a horror fan, I have to admit that this film was definitely not on my radar but I am very happy to have experience it. That is kind of the word to use as well. I would like to compare it if “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” went to the prom and things get very bloody.
Premise: Hell hath no fury…like a prom queen scorned. When Brent rejects Lola’s invitation to prom, he sets off a chain of events that leave him the victim of her twisted revenge. Now he’s the only guest at Lola’s terrifying and demented prom, and must fight to survive what could be his final dance. Will Brent live through this nightmare of drills, nails, glitter and syringes…or become one of Lola’s “loved ones”?
This film runs 84 minutes and it is perfect timing. It runs just long enough to leave you with your mouth opening wondering what the hell just happened. This film is also presented unrated, so you know that this is no PG-13 teen friendly prom horror film. As far as special features go, there is only a few interviews from the cast and crew. But I really liked that fact that the film also comes with an Ultraviolet digital streaming copy of the film. Overall horror fans should not miss this film for sure.