Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Michael Allen
Writers: Renae Geerlings and Tyler Mane.
Cast: Tyler Mane, Muse Watson, Derek Mears, Leslie Easterbrook, Renae Geerlings and Alex Saxon.
Most horror fans know actor Tyler Mane for his work as Michael Myers in the Halloween remakes. However, this film fan remembers him as the titular character Ajax, from Troy (2004). Mane is still acting and he is also producing and writing features, for his production company Mane Entertainment. The first feature from Mane Entertainment is Compound Fracture. Compound Fracture is an indie horror feature, which stars a few horror icons, including: Muse Watson (I Know What You Did Last Summer), Derek Mears (Predators) and Leslie Easterbrook. Well told, this story of Norse mythology offers a few thrills or chills, but this title also lacks any real suspense and mystery.
The story begins with Michael (Mane), his wife and nephew. Together, they are heading to see Michael's father, Gary (Watson). Along the way, a mysterious hooded figure harasses their travels. The harassment turns to murder, when this trio arrives at Gary's house. A figure from Michael's past has returned. And, William (Mears), a true predator, has found a second chance to kill this fractured family.
Understandably, Tyler Mane and Mane Entertainment's first feature is a smallish film. There are only a few characters in this story and a couple of those characters are reduced to bloody goo before act II. There are no elaborate scenes here, with extras. As well, the film relies on one setting. An isolated ranch houses most of the action. But, the action is minimized by the claustrophobic size of this small setting. Finally, there are no real complex shots here. Director Anthony J. Rickert-Epstein relies on a lot of interior shooting and a few scenes involving exteriors and night shoots. It would have been interesting to have seen a few exterior chase scenes. Nonetheless, the production is handled competently by Rickert-Epstein and his crew.
One remarkable element of the film involves the narrative. Plot points are revealed over time, through Acts I and II. By Act III, most of the story has been revealed. However, there are elements of Norse mythology here, with Gary using wards and curses to protect his family. The story does utilize some interesting myths. As well, the film utilizes a few flashbacks. These scenes piece the story together and plot points are filled in, along this ghostly journey. The film does take awhile to get going, but story elements are consistently intriguing.
Compound Fracture is more than just a ghost story; though, suspense elements seem a little undernourished. The central spectre in the film has a few weaknesses. He can be hurt by salt, or banished by a witchy circle. Villains are most interesting when they have vulnerabilities. But, William also hosts a few unconventional traits. He can use weapons and assault the living. Usually, ghosts are relegated to haunting, but this one is much more murderous. Unfortunately, any mystery disappears when William is first shown onscreen. He hides partially behind a black hood. Yet, he is easily identified and any mystery of his identity is washed away by the mid-point of the film. It would have been more suspenseful if William's identity was kept in secret, until late in the film.
Overall, Compound Fracture is an enjoyable film. There are a few bloody scenes here, which surprised this viewer. Also, the acting is well done, by a group of horror veterans. The film is well paced and this title clocks in at the requisite ninety minutes. Still, action elements are relegated to a few exterior scenes. Production is hampered by a smallish budget and the climax is over quickly. A true indie horror feature, which is well told, Compound Fracture goes the distance to deliver a compelling ghost story.
Overall: 7 out of 10 (well acted, a good story involving a family and the supernatural).
A fan page for the film is available here:
Compound Fracture on Facebook
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Posted in: 2014,horror,independent,indie,movie,movie review,review,story,synopsis,tyler mane
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