DEATHGASM (2015)

Written & Directed By: Jason Lei Howden 
Cinematography By: Simon Raby 
Editor: Jeff Hurrell & Gareth Van Niekerk 

Cast: Milo Cawthrone, Kimberly Crossman, James Blake, Sam Berkley, Kate Elliot, Daniel Cresswell, Delaney Tabron, Stephen Ure, Colin Moy, Jodie Rimmer

*Please note that some trivia and facts have been republished from imdb among other sources In this review

Two teenage boys unwittingly summon an ancient evil entity known as The Blind One by delving into black magic while trying to escape their mundane lives.

Made In New Zealand, Even though this film seems like a mix of Evil Dead films, the television show TODD & THE BOOK OF PURE EVIL. As it seems like the best 80's horror film only made in 2015. As it has Heavy Metal, Zombies, Satan, Demons, Gore and Nudity as well as plenty of 80's horror film hallmarks. It actually also seems inspired by the early works of fellow New Zealand filmmaker Peter Jackson

Though it's spirit haunts the film to be an animal all it's own. It is full of energy and inventiveness.

It's a horror comedy that works both genres well as they both come in handy when needed and are usually crossing each other's path throughout.

The remarkable thing is that the film Seems so simple in it's premise. Yet gives off endless entertainment. That makes sure you never get bored. Nor does it stop being original.

It compels you with the power of heavy metal. Which is a welcome change and truly shows the main character as outsiders but also allows us to relate to them as we see why they listen and how it forms them. As people and characters. The film reminds me of he early films of Peter Jackson. Not only for the inventive gore and camerawork, but also you can feel a love of cinema and these type of films. Sure it has a lot of the cliches, but this film makes them at least fun. They feel fresh. It strikes a chord as a tale of youth and being an outsider. While also expressing how at a young age your music while being your obsession cannot only be your voice. It can also remind you you are not alone there are others like you. So it it can be your salvation and support.

So that while the film becomes a horror comedy. Even the first half works as what seems like a coming of age comedy. While certainly not perfect. It feels like a breath of fresh air. A film that shows a love for heavy metal, but horror films. As this is a genuine love letter made by an obvious fan. Though the storyline might be a little simple and thin. This is obviously better than your average fan made film. The film has the excitement and fun as well as the passion Where the energy becomes infectious

The music is what defines them so far as it is the gateway to their bond and helps give them definition. It is also the voice to their emotions and frustrations. As most young people and outsiders use to help cope with the world to help them deal or to bring them joy. So in other words it is their passion. In the film it is both their savior and their destruction.

Milo Cawthorne, Kimberly Crossman, and Kate Elliot are all veterans of the Power Rangers franchise. Cawthorne starred in Power Rangers R.P.M. whereas Elliot and Crossman (who was the Red Samurai) starred in the next season of Power Rangers Samurai.

The film had it's strengths In not only it's horror elements, but also surprisingly in the comedic. scenes as you are laughing while being shocked and disgusted.

The death scenes and Horror are terrifying. Though always seem to have a comedic edge just around the corner and a reason for them to be that way. That makes sense and not just there for a couple of jokes.

Comparisons and homages are all around especially with the aforementioned Peter Jackson and Sam Raimi, but they are done respectfully and successfully. not just ripped off. Keeping hope alive that more films will come from him with that skill and energy. Especially when he sets up his one distinct styles.

There are rumors that if you play a muted DEATHGASM and Iron Maiden's "Live After Death" simultaneously it syncs up perfectly due to precise editing. The filmmakers have yet to comment. In fact i love this film so much. I believe this film is string enough to speak for itself and let the audience discover it's strengths


 Grade: B+