PLEDGE (2018)

Directed By: Daniel Robbins 
Written By: Zachary Weiner 
Cinematography: William Babcock 
Editor: Nik Voytas 


Cast: Zachery Byrd, Philip Andre Botello, Zack Weiner, Aaron Dalla Villa, Cameron Cowperthwaite, Joe Gallagher, Melanie Rothman, Erica Boozer 


A group of college freshmen pledge an exclusive fraternity but soon realize there's more at stake than they could have ever imagined. A film that feels like it could and should have been made in the 1980’s as that was when that culture was big especially in the movies. Not to mention it carries that tradition and vibe.


The three main characters seem to be cliches more than anything who show depth only the worst things get. Which allows for the characters to go from cartoonish to identifiable human beings. At first they are not quite over the top but strong to let us know they are or will be victims and basically social outcasts and victims in their own right.

The seduction of the characters is easily introduced and forsaken. If there was some kind of promise when it’s obvious there is none. The film might have been a bit more intriguing if it showed more Longing for loyalty and acceptance willing to sacrifice just to be given a kind of Social promotion & belong or having the tables turned on the perpetrators. As it stands it seems to offer few surprises.

The question between torture and hazing though resists openly to go with a kind of torture porn feel. The problem is that this film never feels subtle.

Which also might be why it is so short. As it seems mainly interested in the action or actions. Rather then the psychological aspects or going too far with any ideas it might introduce or inspire.

The film is unsettling even when it feels generic and predictable. Though it does offer W.A.S.P.’s as the villains against a diverse cast as their gallery of victims/pledges

The film offers a ripe subject. As it seems most that revolve around this are usually dramas or thriller that contain some kind of conspiracy. Though at least the filmmakers how they have ideas and ingenuity. It would have been nice if the style had been a bit more impressive. Though the film Makes up for shortcomings with youthful energy. While the twists are shocking at times. They are not as smart as the filmmaker thinks they are. Though the film offers an ending where it can be continued with a sequel and shows promise.

This movie actually would have been a good addition to the Hulu series INTO THE DARK. Which are horror films though register as episodes at feature length length usually set around a Holiday. This would fit right in and be one of the better episodes.

Grade: C