Dead Kids

Dead Kids, also known as Strange Behavior in some areas, is a unique fusion of teen slasher flicks and eerie psychological thrillers, marking an unforgettable contribution to the horror genre. The movie, released in 1980, stars Michael Murphy, Louise Fletcher, and Dan Shor, and is directed by Michael Laughlin.

Set in the quiet town of Galesburg, Illinois, the movie explores an escalating series of bizarre murders. Fragility and tranquility are shattered as the town faces an unexpected threat that completely transforms the atmosphere from that of peace and calm to fear and suspicion. The sheriff, played by Michael Murphy, fights to protect his town, desperate to uncover the source of these ruthless crimes.

Michael Murphy rises to the occasion with a commanding presence, who delivers a true intricate portrayal of a conflicted lawman. His character, Sheriff John Brady, is burdened with the responsibility of investigating an unnerving series of gruesome murders, all pointing to the youth of the town at large. It's a depiction of his struggle with the harsh realities and the changing dynamics of a society held in the grip of fear.

One of the prime suspects is the sheriff's own son, Pete Brady, played brilliantly by Dan Shor. A young, innocent and well-mannered teen, Pete is caught in a cat and mouse game as he gets sucked into the chaos. Shor is particularly outstanding, showcasing a wide range of emotion as he navigates his character through the ever-tightening noose of suspicion amidst his group of friends and the town's populace.

Renowned Academy Award-winning actress Louise Fletcher adds another memorable performance to her roster. Fletcher introduces an intriguing character, Barbara Moorehead, a determined and prying researcher. Utilizing her clinical and analytical skills, she slowly discerns the intricate riddle that cloaks the town, working diligently to unveil the mystery at play.

The director constructs a haunting narrative as he seamlessly fuses elements of slasher and sci-fi genres, flirting with the expectations of audience and rooting the story on the line between reality and surreality. Dead Kids presents a chilling depiction of postmodern horror, blending the old traditional values with the sudden advent of modernity to create a distinctly unsettling atmosphere.

The film's narrative builds a unique terrain, as it progresses further exploring the uncanny landscapes of the human psyche while also being bolstered by an evocative score that brilliantly enhances the story's eerie, tense and enigmatic atmosphere.

Dead Kids portrays everyday life and relationships under a very creepy, macabre microscope, deeply subverting the normal into a sinister affair that doesn't shy away from getting under your skin. Through the eyes of the main characters, we explore the grip of fear and the paranoia that ordinary people and communities can experience when faced with extraordinary circumstances.

At its heart, Dead Kids challenges the convention of what we understand as safety, community, friendships and family. Events that transpire within the town provide a social commentary on the evolution of human nature during times of crisis.

Bringing a new dimension to the horror genre, Dead Kids explores the possibility of the unknown and the fear associated with it in a small-town setting. The acting, storyline, and direction all converge to create a truly creepy and gripping experience, driven by an unfolding mystery and the emotional turmoil of its characters. It is a film that is bound to leave viewers on the edge of their seats, as they navigate the disturbing puzzle laid out by this unsettling and captivating movie. If you’re a fan of horror and psychological thrillers, Dead Kids is a must-watch, a forgotten classic that offers a unique exploration of fear, suspicion, and the human capacity for survival against the chilling backdrop of a quiet town turned upside down.