Black Holler

The 2017 indie horror comedy, Black Holler, creates a unique and eccentric blend of genres that promises an entertaining viewing experience. Directed by Jason Berg, and starring a diverse cast of on-screen talents such as Paul Michaels, J.R. Robles, and Vivi Vendetta, this film manages to take you on a wild ride from tranquil suburbia through to a nightmarish realm.

The film centers around a hard-nosed and street-savvy street girl, Laquita Johnson, diversely portrayed by Tamiko Robinson Steele. Residing in an urban locality, this rough-around-the-edges character unexpectedly receives an opportunity to change her life's path. Offered a scholarship at a prestigious predominantly white college, Laquita takes the chance to step out of her comfort zone, hoping for a brighter future.

Upon entering this new chapter of her life, Laquita is abruptly swept into an unusual scenario that begins to unfold within the collegiate environment. She is obliged to participate in a class field trip, a forestry exploration, that sees her and her diverse group of classmates venture into the mysterious wilderness of Black Holler.

Paul Michaels gives a charismatic and humorous performance as the self-absorbed, yet somewhat charming, Professor Hart, who leads the expedition into the dark and menacing woods. J.R. Robles, on the other hand, displays his acting prowess as a goofy and eccentric classmate, while Vivi Vendetta delivers an engaging performance as a quirky yet determined student.

As the plot unravels, the group of urban college students, each with their own unique personalities and quirks, find themselves in the chilling compass of Black Holler. Unbeknownst to them, these woodlands are not just teeming with lush greenery, but sinister creatures and malevolent forces as well. As the group embarks on this daunting journey, the thrilling elements get interspersed with comedic undertones, leading to an intense, laughter-filled, yet nail-biting viewing experience.

The comedy elements are not your typical slapstick variety, but a reflection of 80s-style humor mixed with a satirical take on horror stereotypes. Yet, it does not take away from the undercurrents of suspense and horror that keep the audiences on the edge of their seats. The script is punchy and clever, almost adopting an absurd-ish angle, bringing forth the comedic essence even amid the spooky environment.

Apart from the dynamic performances and an eccentric plot, Black Holler also gives a nod to 80s horror flicks and aesthetics through its visual styles and sound designs. There is an old-school feel to the film, thanks to its low-budget charm, grainy film texture, over-the-top gore, and synthesized music scores. According to the filmmakers, Black Holler was done as a tribute to schlocky, low-budget, B-grade horror films of the 80s and there is a clear echo of that sentiment throughout the film.

The cinematography of Black Holler also sets its own tone, perfectly complimenting the obscure, atmospheric world that the film creates. The visual direction manages to enhance the insanity of the script while maintaining an eerily beautiful representation of the original narrative. The combination of this striking setting with the unpredictability of the plot also creates ample opportunities for surprises and twists, keeping the viewers hooked from beginning to end.

Black Holler isn’t about gratuitous scares or beating viewers down with an endless stream of snuff-level ugliness. Rather, it presents a blend of horror, comedy, thriller, and sarcastic social commentary, all wrapped in an engaging 80s-style filmmaking package. The film is replete with over-the-top character portrayals, comedic dialogues, and laugh-out-loud scenarios, making it a refreshing addition to the horror-comedy genre.

Overall, Black Holler comes across as a thoroughly enjoyable film that combines horror, comedy, and social satire in a manner that is darkly amusing. With its distinctive humor, eerie setting, unique plot, and unforgettable performances, it promises to delight viewers who enjoy unusual, offbeat cinema that leaves clichés behind. The collaboration of Jason Berg with the versatile actors Paul Michaels, J.R. Robles, and Vivi Vendetta, creates a delightful movie experience, making Black Holler a must-watch.