“Blood Barn” takes place in the summer of 1985, as Josie and six friends are hunted by a malevolent spirit while spending a weekend at her family’s secluded barn.
Indie Horror with Style
Right from the swirling shots of the opening minute, it’s clear that “Blood Barn” is going to be anything but traditional. The simplistic plot itself may not make that abundantly clear, though the style certainly does.
Through constantly moving camerawork, chaotic editing and cheesy practical effects, the film crafts its own identity. “Blood Barn” is indie horror done right – having bucket loads of fun with its premise.
Outside of the clearly demonic camera movements, “Blood Barn” is fairly tame early on. In fact, the first 30 minutes of the 75-minute runtime are practically horror-free. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, however.
The film effectively introduces the group of characters, giving each of them their own established identities before unleashing the terror. The people themselves are generic and full of clichés. Luckily, however, they prove to be an entertaining bunch when combined.
This makes the movie’s future events more impactful, as the audience has reasons to root for – or even against – the onscreen individuals.
Simple But Effective Formula
The script is simple: friends show up at a cabin (or farm in this instance), strange things start happening and lives are lost. It’s a tried-and-true formula that works to varying levels of success here. Writers Alexandra Jade and Gabriel Bernini don’t overcomplicate things, which works in the movie’s favor.
“Blood Barn” is a horror-comedy. Once blood begins to be shed, the film still isn’t necessarily attempting to “scare.” Instead, it tries to be fun. Through this, it executes a sort of rock-and-roll-rodeo hybrid killing spree that radiates charm at every turn.
The performances add to this approach. Starring in the film are Lena Redford (Josie), Simon Paris (Simon), Chloe Cherry (Rachel), Bambina (Amanda), Sam Lanier (Eric), Felipe Di Poi (Paul) and Pierce Campion (Scott). They aren’t stone-cold serious or overly exaggerated. Instead, they feel slightly off-kilter and campy.
Blood, Chaos and Practical Effects
The cinematography proves to be one of the movie’s greatest strengths. It’s drenched in red – both through blood and lighting choices. Director of photography Benjamin Bradley-Gilbert also maneuvers the camera in various ways to show the spirit’s point of view.
This, mixed with Jonathan Rado’s score, helps define what “Blood Barn” ultimately becomes.
You also can’t forget about the effects. Caroline Mills had plenty of work to do in the makeup department, and it shows. “Fun” may be a simple word, but it’s worth repeating when describing this film. The practical effects aren’t perfect, nor are they trying to be. With each new massacre, the levels of fun only increase.
Shot in only 11 days, the film’s technical achievements become even more impressive.
Director Gabriel Bernini crafts a throwback horror-comedy with “Blood Barn.” The film lives up to its name – with plenty of blood shed.
Rating: 3 out of 5
