Dead Birds An Unheard of Horror Masterpiece

In Civil War America, six confederate outlaws rob a bank that is temporarily storing a cache of Confederate gold and then take shelter from a coming storm in a local farmhouse. This large group of outlaws begin to see nightmarish visions of past horrors while forever stuck within the haunted farmhouse (Internet).

Rating: Restricted for strong violence and gore.

Release Date: Early 2004.

Starring: Henry Thomas, Patrick Fugit, Nicki Aycox, Michael Shannon, Muse Watson, Mark Boone Junior, Isaiah Washington, Harris Mann, and Jeffrey Hollister.

Director: Alex Turner.

Writer: Simon Barrett.

Using a very haunting score "Dead Birds," sends chills up the spine and the film takes place in a very bleak farmhouse set. Somewhat similar to a haunted house story this film uses dark tones to heighten the fear effect of the film; ominous throughout and building suspense "Dead Birds," effectively creates a horrifying movie watching experience. The suspense of the film does not let up and only intensifies once a supernatural, vengeful spirit is given a shocking introduction.

The dismal, dark atmosphere of "Dead Birds," is only outdone by a well written story revolving around; a bank heist, evil spirits, and double-crossing criminals. The story branches out into a few subplots including; a love story between a soldier and a nurse along with a jealous, love struck, young man who waits in the wings. Full of shocks, scares, and spirits this almost completely unheard of horror gem tortures the audience with angry ghosts and well-written, multi-dimensional characters. Although, light on back story the spontaneity of writer Simon Barrett comes through early in "Dead Birds," and keeps viewers on their toes.

Themes of dark magic, love and rivalry are enough to entertain and the addition of some ghoulish otherworldly characters maintains the film's intensity. However, the constant darkness of "Dead Birds," creates an overall hopeless feeling in the film and for the characters who struggle to understand their brutal circumstances. In "Dead Birds," love does not triumph over all; instead the forces of darkness rule the cinema screen.

Very dark horror piece "Dead Birds," does not shy away from the restricted rating and delivers a quality film that, while bleak in nature is shockingly entertaining. This film is worth a rental, purchase and definitely a watch for the scare factor alone.

6 Bloody Skulls out of 10

A trailer for "Dead Birds:"



Sources:

Dead Birds at IMDB

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Posted in: 2004,alex turner,dead birds,film,harris mann,henry thomas,horror,jeffrey hollister,michael shannon,movie,movie poster,movie trailer,review,sion barrett,supernatural,synopsis,thriller