Kissing Darkness

Kissing Darkness is a 2014 horror comedy film directed by James Townsend, with an ensemble cast including Nick Airus, Allusia Alusia, and Sean Benedict. Taking a clever spin on the often overdone genre of horror movies, Kissing Darkness packages it in an unexpected form of a gay-campy supernatural romp.

The movie sets its groundwork in the deep woods, providing an eerie backdrop, almost personified by its own unique character, creating a sense of unease right from the get-go. The film follows the story of a group of college students, main protagonists, played by notable actors such as Nick Airus and Sean Benedict, among others. This group of friends are as diverse as they come, each representing different backgrounds yet bonded by their collective identity as gay men out for a fun and adventurous trip in the wilderness. However, their fun-filled camping trip soon takes a dark turn, sweeping the viewers into a haunting tale of horror and suspense.

The film uses the group's dynamic portrayal of queer relationships to enhance its narrative – seamlessly blending genres of horror, comedy, and romance, further highlighted by a scripted combination of hilarity and fear that is capable of rattling the audience members.

Featuring Allusia Alusia, a prominent drag queen performer, known for their extravagant and larger-than-life persona, the film utilizes their talent in a manner which complements the narrative appropriately, breaking the monotony of fear using humor and wit. It is no small feat to incorporate a drag queen into a horror movie, yet Kissing Darkness manages to employ it effectively, adding a unique quirk to an otherwise typical horror story.

Although at first, the plot may seem simplistic and conventional, it soon builds up to create an escalating crescendo of dread and fear. The director, James Townsend, skillfully utilizes the movie's genre fusion. As the movie progress, each plot twist is designed to keep the viewers riveted, at the edge of their seats, anticipating the happenings of the next scene.

Monsters, mayhem, and malevolence seep through the storyline. But, threading alongside is also a considerable emphasis on unity, love, and acceptance. It might seem jarring to see a horror film ventured to explore these humane aspects, but Kissing Darkness does so without compromising its entertainment quotient, thus offering a satisfying watch for viewers who love a multi-genre cinematic experience.

The film's script taps into each character's unique dimension, gradually revealing the hidden depths of their individual past and the dynamics of their relationships. Although the comedy and horror elements receive utmost prominence, these interspersed character studies provide an underlying depth and reality to the storyline.

Kissing Darkness stands out with its fresh take on delving into the supernatural through the lens of its LGBTQ characters. Not only does it pack the thrill of a campy horror flick, but it also touches upon sociocultural elements which are widely resonant to the modern generation.

Kissing Darkness is a movie for those who relish in the thrill of a good scare yet appreciate the nuanced humor and subtlety of character-led narratives. It's an adventurous journey that gives you chills while letting you laugh down the haunting hallways of the suspenseful plot. An ideal pick for a movie night that explores the unique combination of love, friendship, fright, humor, and an unforgettable camping trip gone horrifyingly wrong.

In conclusion, Kissing Darkness offers more than just a typical fright fest. It's a mishmash of genres, featuring a refreshing storyline that demarcates it from the usual horror movies out there. A delightful concoction of fear and fun, this 2014 film will leave you thoroughly entertained, proving to be an immersive cinematic treat that resonates beyond its runtime.