As the Village Sleeps

source: As the Village Sleeps

"As the Village Sleeps" is an original riff on the 'cabin in the woods' horror movie trope. When a group of twenty-something friends (and frenemies!) gather for an alcohol and drug-fueled all night birthday party, a mysterious card game leads to a chaotic and terrifying denouement, from which all of them will emerge scarred for life, or worse... Director Terry Spears weaves together a skillful supernatural whodunnit with a talented and charming young cast who each hold their own in this taut and mysterious ensemble piece. The movie is cleverly shot in chiaroscuro and never reveals too much in its dark shadows which keeps us on the edge and leaves us wanting more. A must-see for supernatural horror aficionados!

This is one of those movies you watch and immediately wonder, "Why haven't I seen this before?" The setup revolves around the popular device used in get together games like werewolf, mafia, and/or among us, and is so ripe for exploration it's a wonder this is the first time I can of seeing it on screen (you could make an argument for The Thing, but it's a bit different.) The cinematography is a little weak, and some of the acting isn't quite in tune. But those qualms aside, there is a lot here to unpack. There is a killer... we think... and it could be any of the main characters. Don't get attached to anyone because this can only come down to the final few people left to figure out the truth before it's too late. Who that will be is anyone's guess, and there will be plenty of finger pointing and distrust before we get there, not to mention a body count. The electronic score and quick scenes keep things moving, I was rarely bored. And of course in true Jumanji fashion, the door is cracked plenty wide to let a sequel slip in sometime in the near future if the opportunity arises.

As is often the case with indie horror this seems to have split the audience right down the middle. I fell very much on the side of those who enjoyed it. The story of a group of kids being picked off by a werewolf in a 'cabin in the woods' feels like it may be a bit run of the mill but thankfully that's not the case here - the simple premise of a the game being played by the protagonists is a really clever plot device and takes the viewer on a genuinely entertaining 'horror whodunnit'. The cast all played it really well (my particular faves were the guys in the band!) and the direction and lighting were also very good given budgetary restraints. All in all - if you love indie horror you should be all over this one.

Well this is an indie film worth watching! As a filmmaker, really enjoyed the cinematography and the tone. It felt a little like stranger things meets teen wolf as far as tone/vibe. Really enjoyed that. I love watching these gems as an indie filmmaker myself. Acting was on point for the material, it never takes itself too seriously and I mean that in the best way. Shots and lighting were really well done. I wont give anything away but, it has its twists, but also knows when to hone it in and let the characters work. For what they sought out to do, I thought they did a great job! Check this out!

I read the storyline of this film and that alone put me off. Sometimes it's good not to know any of the actors however that usually only works if the film has plus points in all or most of the other departments, which THIS TRIPE doesn't, NOT in a single one. I watched the first 29 minutes because I was hoping something, anything was going to happen to put some life into it but nothing did. More life exists in a morgue believe me. So, acting was excruciatingly bad, not even at amateur level. Script awful, juvenile behaviour throughout. Photography by way of landscapes, etc non-existent. The characters were like 20 going on 70. Horrid backing music. Give this a wide berth even if someone offers you money to watch it - DON'T.

As the Village Sleeps is a solid horror thriller. It kept me glued to the screen the whole time. A game of werewolf devolves into a real life terror in slow motion. The special effects were really done. The actors and the director did a fine job. But really, I can't say enough good things about the cinematography. That is what impressed me the most about this gem of a film. The lighting and the camerawork were so well done, and it really elevated this film in so many ways. The story was intriguing and I think this movie is underrated. The filming of the script as obviously executed very well. And it's worth your time to check it out if you like thriller/horror films!

What we have here is a cool indie horror where a group of "friends" go to a cabin in the woods in the middle of an Indian reservation where they get drunk and start playing a dangerous game, because hey, that's what youngsters do. And of course, it all goes terribly wrong. They get sucked into a weird game where nothing is what it seams and they turn on each other and all hell breaks loose. The fact that there is something in the woods that is hunting them one by one, doesn't help either. If a horror about college kids fighting for their lives in dark and earie woods sound like you cup of tea, give this indie gem a go. You won't be disappointed.

NO SPOILERS. I really enjoyed this film, so I wanted to write a review. However, I don't want to give anything away, so I'll keep this fairly brief! "As The Village Sleeps" is an intriguing horror film with a fun concept (It's like a grounded and earthbound "Jumanji" with a horror twist.) and solid execution. The cast is game, the writing is clever, and the suspense builds steadily throughout. It's a well-directed indie with a plot that unfolds nicely and keeps you engaged. If you're in the mood for a surprising horror film that keeps you guessing, definitely check this one out! I'm looking forward to seeing what these filmmakers do next.

If you are looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this is your best choice. As the Village Sleeps knows how to maintain suspense throughout the movie, and gives us very interesting moments. Personally, I really liked the wide range of performances and how well directed they all are. I've always liked movies where the personalities of each character play an important role in making you think something that isn't really what you thought, and you end up in for a surprise. The tones that are achieved mixed with psychological tension are very interesting. Highly recommended.