Honeyspider

Honeyspider is an indie horror movie from 2014, directed by Josh Hasty. The film stars Frank J. Aard, Anjali Alm-Basu, Brad Baker, Ethan Dunn, and many others. The perfectly executed suspense, chilling factors and intriguing plot make it a must-watch for horror fanatics.

Set on Halloween day in 1989, Honeyspider is more than a simple creature feature. The lead character, played by Mariah Brown, is Jill, a vibrant college student working part-time at the local movie theater. Her Halloween birthday sees her juggling between attending a birthday party planned by her friends and her shift at the theatre. Echoing the style of late '80s horror flicks, ominous happenings seem to follow her throughout the day. However, Jill dismisses them as Halloween pranks until she's faced with the real terror.

Frank J. Aard brilliantly takes on the role of Professor Black, a strange and eerie figure who hosts a late-night radio show. Black seems to focus on paranoia-inducing subject matter and cautionary tales, and his ominous broadcasts add a layer of tension to the story. Anjali Alm-Basu portrays Jackie, one of Jill's friends, caught up in the terrifying circumstances that unfold. Brad Baker gives a goosebumps-inducing performance as a mysterious figure lurking around Jill.

Staying true to its origins, Honeyspider embraces the atmospheric essence of the '80s horror genre. It masterfully incorporates classic horror elements like creepy radio broadcasts, menacing characters, and an underlying sense of dread. The excellent costume and set design further evokes a sense of nostalgia while keeping the audience rooted in suspense.

Honeyspider also riffs on the satanic-cult subgenre, setting up several chilling scenarios that unravel in unexpected ways. It willingly embraces the tension-building aspect of horror films rather than relying heavily on jump scares, creating unease and fear in the viewer.

The cinematography of Honeyspider gives justice to its set and plot. Kenny Caperton, the cinematographer, combines visual subtlety and dark undertones to amplify the chilling atmosphere. The color palette of the film is noteworthy, often shifting between the vibrant aesthetics of the '80s and the dim lights that hint at the darkness lurking beneath.

One of the most crucial characters of the film is the quaint town, which imbibes a character of its own amidst the celebrations. The beautifully shot trick-or-treat sequences, the timeless movie theater, and the dark, lonely alleyways paint a perfect backdrop against the unfolding horrors.

The film's background score, composed by Matt Hill, adds to the spookiness of the film. The eerie music creates contrast with the brightly lit '80s setting, and the subtle sound design adds to the growing sense of tension throughout the film.

Despite being a relatively low-budget film, Honeyspider has an engaging narrative. Although it features several common horror tropes, the director succeeds in making them fresh and suspenseful. It impressively leaves much of its horror to the imagination, allowing the audience to share the characters' fear of the unknown.

Honeyspider is a fitting tribute to the classic horror films of the late '80s, capturing their style and spirit while still maintaining its unique storyline. It would resonate with moviegoers seeking a film that combines nostalgia, suspenseful storytelling, and the atmosphere of classic horror.

In conclusion, Honeyspider is a chilling horror movie that beautifully blends the nostalgic aesthetics of '80s horror films with a suspenseful narrative. Its well-executed plot, nuanced performances, and atmospheric cinematography lend it a distinct edge in the indie horror genre. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate the suspense, creepiness, and paranoia standard of scary thrillers interwoven with the nostalgia of the late '80s.