The Neon Dead

The Neon Dead is an evocative, otherworldly film that masterfully melds together elements of horror, action, and comedy. Directed by Torey Haas, this indie movie reflects a love affair with the nostalgia of 80's horror, while infusing it with a contemporary twist. The film features well-crafted performances by a small ensemble cast, including Marie Barker, Greg Garrison, and D. Dylan Schettina, whose chemistry adds depth, authenticity, and voicing to their respective characters.

In the film, we're introduced to Allison (Barker), an out-of-work, recent college graduate facing the unenviable task of job hunting. However, the mundanity of her life takes a surreal twist when she finds her house invaded by otherworldly creatures of ghastly appearance. Understandably perturbed, she engages the services of two budget supernatural exterminators, Desmond and Jake, played by Garrison and Schettina respectively.

From the onset, the duo appears peculiarly fitted for this bizarre task, creating an intriguing contrast to Allison's normalcy. Their eccentric, yet stalwart approach to tackling the paranormal evokes a sense of comicality, as they navigate their 'business' with a unique mix of nonchalance and professionalism that's sure to keep audiences entertained and invested.

As the film progressively unfurls, we find Allison, Desmond, and Jake entangled in a web of extraordinary circumstances they didn't bargain for. In their quest to rid Allison's house of its spectral tenants, they unwittingly stumble into the heart of an ancient curse, locked in battle with dreaded apparitions that are more than they initially seemed. This melee against the undead's eerie neon glow is made more salient by the film's distinctive visual style.

The Neon Dead, characterized by its vibrant aesthetic, assimilates neon-infused set designs coupled with unique special effects makeup that give the film a unique visual identity. This offers a refreshing departure from typical low-budget horror films, putting forth a striking spectacle that is both riveting and eerie. Its use of neon underlines the supernatural elements, immersing viewers in a fantastical world where the undead don neon hues.

The film also employs its humor with subtlety and deftness, making for a delightful mix of scare and laughter. This distinct mix of genres lends the film an unusual tonal quality that provides comic relief while sustaining an overall air of eerie tension. While it definitely is a horror story at its very core, The Neon Dead doesn’t shy away from injecting humor into even its tensest moments, resulting in a film that appeals to audiences who appreciate a dash of comedy with their horror.

In terms of performances, Marie Barker portrays Allison with a natural believability that contrasts starkly with her bizarre circumstances and weirdly enjoyable newfound compatriots. On the other hand, Greg Garrison and D. Dylan Schettina succeed in making Desmond and Jake truly riveting characters. Their performances ooze charm and charisma, and there's a palpable chemistry between the unexpected trio that sustains viewers' engagement.

While The Neon Dead is saturated with supernatural shenanigans, at its heart is a relatable narrative about facing fears and overcoming life's unexpectedly dark corners. This allows the film to resonate on a deeper level, providing an additional dimension to the garish supernatural elements and making the narrative even more compelling.

The Neon Dead compels you to suspend your disbelief and invites you to embark on an unconventional adventure. Its distinct blend of neon-hued horror, slapstick humor, and eerie tension, topped off with charismatic performances, crafts a film certain to leave you entertained and on the edge of your seat.

Give it a watch if you're a fan of non-traditional horror or if you're looking for a film that doesn't take itself too seriously, but still remains engaging and visually unique. It's a testament to the magic of indie filmmaking, showcasing the captivating results that can come from taking risks and infusing fresh, creative vision into tried and tested genres. The Neon Dead is a wildly radiant ride that'll infect you with its delightfully peculiar charm.