Screamplay

Screamplay is a one-of-a-kind horror-comedy that offers a fascinating, psychedelic take on the genre. Written and directed by Rufus Butler Seder, this 1985 feature film explores the dark, twisted fantasies of an aspiring screenwriter as he tries to finish his screenplay.

The film revolves around Edgar Allen (played by Rufus Butler Seder himself), a struggling screenwriter who’s been stuck on his latest script for months. Desperate for inspiration, Allen turns to his own twisted fantasies, which soon begin to bleed into his reality. As he delves deeper into his innermost fears, things quickly spiral out of control, and Allen finds himself unable to distinguish between reality and fiction.

The film takes place in a variety of surreal settings, ranging from the imagination of the protagonist to the inside of his own mind. The cinematography is a standout feature, with an abundance of inventive camera angles and motion techniques that give the film a completely unique visual style. The use of costumes and practical special effects is equally impressive, with the film’s low-budget limitations used to great effect.

One of the strengths of Screamplay is the humor that’s woven throughout the film. The humor is in line with the horror, with the jokes often relying on gore and exaggeration to get a laugh. However, the humor never feels overly forced, and somehow manages to work well with the bizarre and surreal plot of the film.

The acting is serviceable but nothing particularly noteworthy, with Rufus Butler Seder in particular turning in a somewhat wooden performance as the lead. However, this is somewhat offset by the film’s dreamlike quality, which makes the acting feel less significant than the overall atmosphere of the film.

The plot of Screamplay is relatively simple, but the execution is where the film truly shines. The film never takes itself too seriously, opting instead to revel in the absurdity of its premise. However, there are still plenty of genuinely chilling moments, and the film strikes a balance between comedy and horror that’s rarely seen in the genre.

Overall, Screamplay is a unique and fascinating horror-comedy that holds up surprisingly well over thirty years after its initial release. The film’s blend of humor, surrealism, and genuine scares makes it a must-see for fans of the genre, and its inventive camera work and practical special effects ensure that it’s a feast for the eyes as well. While the acting and plot may not be particularly memorable, the film’s overall vibe and the inventiveness of its execution more than make up for any shortcomings.