“Hell of a Summer” follows a group of camp counselors as a mysterious masked killer begins to pick off victims one by one.
A Cast Worth Rooting For
This is how you do a “Friday the 13th”-esque horror comedy. While “Hell of a Summer” may disappoint slasher purists with its lack of on-screen carnage, it delivers on nearly every other front.
The film thrives on its well-rounded ensemble. Even with a large group of characters, each has distinct quirks and personalities, leading to memorable interactions, natural humor, and clever callbacks. Strong performances elevate the material, with every actor firing on all cylinders.
Nostalgia Meets Fresh Energy
The directorial debut from Billy Bryk and Finn Wolfhard blends modern slasher sensibilities with classic techniques, including retro transitions, camera work, and cutaway kills. The result feels both fresh and familiar – a nostalgic treat for longtime horror fans and a witty, relevant comedy for newer audiences.
It’s also one of the funniest films of the year. While the masked killer drives the plot, the movie takes detours for character-driven “side quests” that deliver some of its most comedic moments. The laughs land consistently from beginning to end.
An Unconventional Approach to Horror
Instead of showcasing the full brutality of each kill, “Hell of a Summer” leans on cutaways. This choice may frustrate gore-hounds but fits the film’s comedic, fast-paced tone.
At 98 minutes, it moves briskly, though not without flaws. Emotional beats often struggle to land when quickly undercut by humor, and the final act’s attempts to push boundaries don’t always succeed. The last 30 minutes lose some momentum, but the film’s charm never fades – it had me laughing right through the credits.
“Hell of a Summer” marks an impressive debut for Bryk and Wolfhard. It’s sharp, stylish and packed with personality, with just enough horror elements to keep the suspense alive. Their youthful energy breathes new life into the slasher genre while honoring the films that inspired them.
Rating: 4 out of 5
