Army of the Damned

Army of the Damned, a horror-comedy rollercoaster ride released in 2013 by the director Tom DeNucci, showcases exceptional performances from Tony Todd, Michael Berryman, and David Chokachi. The movie successfully combines humor and horror to create a film that is both chilling and entertaining. It explores the boundaries of both genres and offers an unforgettable experience to its viewers.

The movie starts on a gripping note. Sherwood (David Chokachi), an affable small-town police officer, is showing officers from a popular reality TV show, "Ghost Chasers," around his beat. The crew is there to film the eerie stories of an old, haunted house in the town. The decision to include the "Ghost Chasers" provides a comic undertone and sets the pace for the rest of the movie. This is a bold decision taken by the director to mix comedy with horror, two genres which rarely meet.

Tony Todd plays Jackson, Sherwood's old partner. He plays the role with a sense of gruff realism, underplaying the melodramatic possibilities and making Jackson a compellingly human counterpoint to the supernatural events that unfold. Notably, Michael Berryman, well known for horror roles, portrays the creepy inhabitant of the haunted house, bringing intensity and suspense to the storyline. The chemistry amongst these actors is undeniable and adds to the entertainment value of the movie.

As events unfold in the haunted house, it becomes more than just a setting for spooky stories. The house evolves into an entity with a horrifying past, and its mysteries entangle the police officer, his ex-partner, and the reality TV crew. The house and its history serve as the core of the narrative, acting almost as another character, an antagonist that livens up the plot.

Without giving too much away, let's just say, the movie title, "Army of the Damned," is subject to literal translation. A series of terrifying events brings forth an 'army' from beyond the grave that is set on wreaking havoc. As the threat heightens, the characters must put their differences aside to survive the night. The further they delve into the house, the deeper they dive into the house's chilling past, and their lives become entwined with a terrifying chapter in the town's history.

While horror is the dominant genre of the movie, the director expertly blends comedic elements at just the right moments. The humor never feels forced but instead provides relief from the tension built up by the horror elements. This combination is one of the film's greatest strengths, setting "Army of the Damned" apart from most other horror movies.

One must commend the film for maintaining a fine balance between horror and humor, and the director did a fantastic job keeping the plot interesting and entertaining throughout. Moreover, the performances by Tony Todd, David Chokachi, and Michael Berryman are commendable, each of them delivering a credible and captivated presentation of their characters.

The cinematography of the film plays a significant role in the chilling atmosphere. The shadowy corners of the haunted house, the creepy artifacts, and the dimly lit rooms all contribute beautifully to the overall suspense and horror. Also, the special effects and make-up department deserve a special mention, bringing to life the 'damned army' in the most attention-grabbing and horrific way.

The film uses a distinctive visual style that creates an almost suffocating tension, which is further heightened by a soundtrack that complements the overall creepy atmosphere. This film isn't just about cheap jump scares; it builds a sinister world that will leave you peering into the dark long after the credits roll.

So hold on to your popcorn because "Army of the Damned" will leave you on the edge of your seat with its thrilling blend of comedy and horror. This blend of gnarly horror with dark humor, supported by solid performances and compelling cinematography, offers a viewing experience worth much more than a few jump scares. It is definitely a movie for horror and comedy lovers who don't mind their laughs being peppered with a little spine-chilling action.