Review: Deathgasm (2015)

If you're a fan of horror flicks with a dash of heavy metal madness, then Deathgasm (2015) should be on your radar. This New Zealand film offers a wild ride packed with gore, laughs, and some truly head-banging music. It's one of those movies that doesn't take itself too seriously but manages to deliver a fun experience. The film dives into the world of teenage rebellion, friendship, and, of course, the chaos that ensues when you accidentally summon demons with your garage band.

Plot Summary

Deathgasm follows Brodie, a metalhead teenager who finds himself stuck in a small, conservative town after moving in with his religious relatives. Feeling like an outsider, he quickly bonds with Zakk, another misfit with a shared passion for heavy metal. Together, they form a band, appropriately named Deathgasm. The plot thickens when they stumble upon a mysterious piece of sheet music that promises unimaginable power. However, when they play it, they unwittingly summon demonic forces, unleashing chaos upon their town. As they scramble to fix their mistake, Brodie and his friends must battle both the supernatural and their personal demons.

Performances

The cast of Deathgasm brings a lot of energy and charm to the film. Milo Cawthorne shines as Brodie, the film's protagonist. He perfectly captures the essence of a misunderstood teen, balancing vulnerability with a rebellious spirit. James Blake plays Zakk, Brodie's partner in crime, with a charismatic intensity that complements Cawthorne's performance. Kimberley Crossman adds depth as Medina, Brodie's crush, who proves to be more than just a love interest. The supporting cast, including the over-the-top townspeople and fellow bandmates, all contribute to the film's quirky atmosphere.

Direction and Craft

Jason Lei Howden, the writer and director, deserves kudos for blending horror and comedy so seamlessly. His background in visual effects is evident, as the film boasts some impressive gore and practical effects that will delight horror fans. Howden keeps the pacing brisk, ensuring there's never a dull moment. The film's visual style is vibrant and energetic, mirroring the intensity of the heavy metal soundtrack. Speaking of music, the film's soundtrack is a headbanger's dream, featuring a mix of original tracks and classic metal anthems that perfectly complement the on-screen mayhem.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, Deathgasm is a gem worth adding to the shelf. Its unique blend of horror and metal, paired with its distinct New Zealand flavor, makes it stand out in any collection. The Blu-ray release is the best way to experience the film, thanks to its superior audio and video quality that do justice to the film's vivid visuals and killer soundtrack. Plus, the Blu-ray often includes some fun extras, like behind-the-scenes features and commentary, providing insight into the film's production.

While it's not the rarest film out there, Deathgasm is still somewhat uncommon, making it a nice find for those who appreciate offbeat horror. It’s the kind of movie that sparks conversations and is always a hit during horror movie marathons.

Overall, Deathgasm is a must-have for horror and metal enthusiasts alike. It blends its genres in a memorable way, offering a viewing experience that's as entertaining as it is unique. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this film deserves a spot in your collection.

In conclusion, Deathgasm (2015) is a riotous mix of horror, comedy, and metal that delivers on all fronts. Its energetic cast, impressive direction, and killer soundtrack make it a standout entry in the genre. It’s a film that doesn’t shy away from its ridiculous premise but rather embraces it with gusto. As a collector, you'll find that owning Deathgasm is like having a piece of heavy metal history that's also a lot of fun to watch.

So, crank up the volume, grab some popcorn, and get ready for a bloody good time with Deathgasm. You'll be hard-pressed to find another film that so joyfully combines the thrills of horror with the rebellious spirit of metal.