LITTLE EVIL (2017)

Written & Directed By: Eli Craig 
Cinematography By: Matthew Clark 
Editor: Tim Nolan 


Cast: Adam Scott, Bridget Everett, Evangeline Lily, Clancy Brown, Sally Field, Carla Gallo, Tyler Labine, Hank Harris, Donald Faison, Chris D’Elia, Kyle Bornheimer 


Gary, who has just married Samantha, the woman of his dreams, discovers that her six-year-old son may be the Antichrist.

More comedic then it is a horror film. Though will be a comedy that will appeal to many horror afficinados. As it is inspired and takes inspiration from many horror films to make up it's story. Though THE OMEN seems to be the heaviest influence.

The film actually has too much energy early on that feels chaotic and like it's moving too fast. Never giving the material especially the humor enough time to land. As it always seem to be in a rush and choppy with it's editing. Maybe done to have us feel as confused as the main character in this new situation.

Though it makes it feel thin also like it might just be a stretched out short. Luckily in the second half the film becomes more grounded and slows down enough to start letting things stick and be important.

As the film starts out There is promise and the ideas are good the material Works. It just feels too giddy. Like a friend who has a secret it knows something and can't wait to tell you but you have to watch something first before you can get it. Though can't wait for you to discover whatever it is. As the film feels like it can’t wait to get to the punchlines. So much so that the set-up feels rushed. 

Though the film has it's charms, but like worker director Eli Craig's last film TUCKER & DALE VS. EVIL this film seems more well rounded but still lacking an ingredient.

As that film was more about slashers, this film is more centered around exorcisms and possessions. That make this seem more like a dark fairy tale. Which makes sense as the film can also be seen as a metaphor for some of the horrors of being a step parent and the relationship you have to form between you and the child or children. Not so. Much an original parent. Stepping into mystery and not prepared for the challenges that can be scary. The difficulties you must face and pressure from many sides.

Again sort of like his first film where a familiar subject and story in a genre is introduced but we see it from a different side and more from an inhabitants view. More comedically and more knowing.

Part of the comedy comes from most of the characters who are all used to going to some kind of therapy and they keep repeating the mantras and sayings to help them go through things and give them strength in trying times. Hat sometimes leaves them blind to what is in front of them, (especially Evangeline Lilly's character who seems focused on being strong and independent ultimately) but ultimately helps save the day when they use it more physically in this case.

The film has plenty of comedic talent on display. Who seem more left to their is. Devices when it comes to most of their scenes rather then what might be written on the page. As it seems to be using a lot of improv in more the group therapy scenes. Which helps the film as more of it's humor is found in characters rather than situations.

The film is inventive which makes it worth viewing. Especially as it is less violent then one would think.

The standout in the cast are Bridget Everett as another single parent in group therapy and co-worker who seems to be one of Adam Scott's only and closest friends and Also Tyler Labine in a small supporting role as a wedding photographer who has figured it all out.

The film is smart to not show us an important event in the story initially but decide to more show it once we have gotten suspicious and get where the story is headed. So that we see it now as more of a revelation.

The film is likeable enough to be entertaining and slows down in the second half. Where the editing seems designed at times to make the audience jump.


Grade: C+