Trick 'r Treat review

Set to be released October 6, 2009 on DVD

Trick ‘r Treat has been on the minds and lips of horror fans ever since its original release date in October of 2007. Since then, this film has been screening in various film festivals such as the Toronto After Dark Film Festival where it won the Silver Audience Award and it also won an Audience Choice Award at the 2008 Screamfest. It is finally slated for an October 6th DVD/Blu-Ray release.

First of all, I will say that this film is definitely something special. Why is it special? Well, has a very well-crafted narrative that intertwines the stories of multiple different people and their experiences on one Halloween night. Second of all, it gives the audience something that it hasn’t had for a long time; a movie that actually takes place at Halloween. Because of this, we are treated to great visuals in a great environment. From the town’s Halloween party, to the neighborhood streets that are lined with lit Jack-o-lanterns and are filled with Halloween decorations, this movie will put all viewers into the Halloween spirit.

The story weaves together multiple stories. Unlike a movie with multiple separate vignettes, the story is told in a Pulp Fiction style and includes tales of murder, vampirism, werewolves, and urban legends. Starring, in the lead roles, are many stand-out actors such as Leslie Bibb, Anna Paquin, Dylan Baker, and Brian Cox. All of whom do a great job in their respective roles.
All this talk of storyline, you may be asking yourself: What about scares? There are no really intense scenes where the viewer is sitting on the edge of his or her seat only to be met with some deeply disturbing outcome, but there are moments where the unexpected happens as well as some very atmospheric scenes which lend to some potential scares. Lastly, the creature and special effects in this film are top-notch and also lend to some scares.

The only real downfall of this movie is its lack of emotional depth in the story. Each of the storylines is fun and interesting, but this film will not give the viewer something to think about that sticks with them after the film is over. This prevents it from becoming a film that will blow the viewer away and keep them thinking about this movie’s depth long after the credits roll. This film is strictly a fun ride… nothing more.

If you haven’t noticed, this review is conspicuously devoid of any plot synopsis or outline. This is intentional. This is one of those movies where too many plot hints may give away interesting moments of the film.

To spite the lack of emotional attachment, Trick ‘r Treat is about as fun as a horror movie can get. Even though it won’t stick with you like an Oldboy or Deadgirl, this is a very enjoyable film that will become a staple of your Halloween movie lineup.

Score: 7.5/10