Head Count

Head Count is a horror-thriller movie from 2018, directed by Elle Callahan. The film stars Isaac Jay, Jay Lee, Ashleigh Morghan, and a talented cast of young actors. The movie tells the story of a group of young friends who decide to spend their weekend in the Joshua Tree National Park, in California. However, the trip takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a mysterious stranger who teaches them a game that brings ancient evil spirits to life.

At first, the friends don't take the game seriously, but soon they start to realize that something sinister is happening. One of them disappears, and the others start to experience strange occurrences and witness bizarre visions. They begin to suspect that they might be haunted by the demon that they summoned. As they try to figure out how to undo the spell, they discover that their new friend is not who he seems to be and that they have to fight for their lives when it turns out that the demon is not willing to let them go.

The movie builds up tension slowly and convincingly, with excellent pacing and cinematography. The director manages to create an eerie atmosphere, and the sound design is masterful. The movie uses music and sound effects to enhance the scary moments and create a feeling of dread that lingers throughout the film.

The acting in Head Count is impressive, especially considering that most of the cast are unknowns. Isaac Jay plays Evan, the protagonist of the story, with a natural and relatable acting style. Ashleigh Morghan shines as his love interest, Zoe, and delivers a performance that is both vulnerable and strong. The supporting cast is also excellent, and each character is well-defined and developed.

The movie addresses several themes, including the dangers of uncontrolled curiosity, the power of ancient myths, and the importance of trust and loyalty in friendship. The script is well-written and original, and the story takes unexpected turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end.

Overall, Head Count is a must-see for horror fans who enjoy smart, original, and atmospheric movies. The film is an impressive debut for Elle Callahan, and it showcases the talent of a promising filmmaker. If you are looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you think, Head Count is definitely worth watching.