Porno debuted this year at SXSW and, despite the title, it actually has a lot to offer. Think Red State meets Popcorn meets Debbie Does Dallas. Surprisingly enough, the end result is something that almost rivals actual porn… almost.

A well-paced, balanced, charming, and downright shocking experience.

While a horror film set in a theatre isn’t exactly an innovative story device, director Keola Racela is able to pull in the best elements from the sub-genre and weave them into a well-paced, balanced, charming, and downright shocking experience. Is it a perfect amalgamation? No–and that’s okay.

Indie films are always a compromise in terms of what area (effects, acting, sets, etc.) is receiving the least amount from the overall budget. As a result, Porno’s aesthetic and vibe can, at times, feel like a REALLY long episode of Are You Afraid Of The Dark. You know, if Are You Afraid of the Dark thumbed its nose at religion and featured jaw-dropping mutilation sequences.


You can’t unsee the sights of Porno–no matter how badly you may want to.

Unfortunately for some, Porno also shares the same over-the-top acting style that you’d find in that sort of made-for-tv genre offering. It feels intentional, and as the film progresses, any annoyances that may exist early on will likely fade into obscurity. The first half of Porno is littered with overt dialogue and actions, and while I understand that to reach full depravity we need to see the other side of the spectrum, it can be a bit much. That said, standouts include Jillian Mueller and Robbie Tann.

Through its faults, Porno remains a deeply entertaining film with subversive tropes, unexpected themes, and impressive gore. Trust me, you can’t unsee the sights of this one–no matter how badly you may want to. If you’re into genre films that prioritize fun and enjoyable viewing experiences over heavy-handed commentary, this is for you.