Bleed [Review]

An expecting couple, Sarah and Matt, moves into their new home away from the city. Gathered with Sarah’s long time schizophrenic friend, Bree, and her boyfriend, Dave, the couples enjoy a backyard barbecue party. However, a simple housewarming get together turns into a ghost hunting adventure when Sarah’s twin brother, Eric, and his girlfriend, Skye, make a surprise visit. Intrigued by Dave’s chilling story of the town’s serial killer, Kane, from the 70’s, Eric and Sky take instant interest in this urban legend and convince the others to visit the bunt down prison in which Kane was held and killed in. When Sarah drops the group off at the prison ground, circumstances instantly turn grim. Ritualistic sacrifice and the paranormal are just few of the sub genres found in this thrilling horror movie.

Writer/director Tripp Rhame is new to the feature length horror realm, but don’t let that stop you from watching this movie. He hit more nails in the head in his debut than most directors and storytellers do in their entire careers. At first this might come off as every other genre film made today, and to be honest the story line might not be the most original, but the way the story is portrayed is what makes it stand out from the others. The characteristics, style, and some other aspects of the story of Bleed almost lie parallel to that of Last Shift. Although this is a movie that has different sub genres weaved in there; nothing in it feels forced. Everything has a natural flow to it–and the best part is, it is kept short and to the point. No extremely long, pointless buildups and definitely no filler scenes. 

The film’s acting is certainly not it’s strong point, but it’s not weak. It’s convincing and doesn’t take detract from the overall experience in any way. However, the performance by Lyndon Smith, who plays Skye, is probably the most striking. The panicked emotions expressed by her character is by far the most plausible; and even though she isn’t the main character–she’s definitely the most memorable.

The usual complaint is the scares tactics used in genre films, but Bleed dodges the big mistakes that horror films tend to make when it comes to giving the audience a real fright. The scares are mostly of the “jump” variety, but they’re done tastefully and effectively. There’s genuine tension, and behind every jump scare is a motive. The only criticism is the explanation behind the focal point and motive of the story is lightly touched upon. Therefore, if not paying close attention, the viewer can easily miss it. That means the ending can some across a bit confusing if you’re not 100% focused.

Ghost hunting movies can go either way, but Bleed has done this particular sub genre of horror a lot of favors. It’s not cheesy, there is no shaky handheld camera, and it’s not trying to be something more than what it’s meant to be. This is definitely a movie that majority of  horror movie fans will love and appreciate. Not only does it have a story worth watching, but chances are it will scare you or at least put you on the edge of your seat.

Bleed hits theaters and VOD today.