Mortuary Massacre

"Mortuary Massacre" is a 2017 anthology horror film that takes viewers into a world filled with gore, mystery, and horror. The movie, directed by Chris Niespodzianski and co-written with Steven G. Dailey, stars Kit Bateman, Eric Berggren, and Erin Blaisdell. The film combines contemporary storytelling with somewhat of a retro charm of 80s-style horror, making it a thrilling experience with a hint of nostalgia.

The narrative framework of the movie is set around a new police detective named Greta (played by Phoebe Dollar), who happens to be interviewing the town's creepy mortician (played by Todd Martin). Akin to the iconic format of anthology horror, each story told is a flashback that unfolds from the mouth of the mortician. As he shares his macabre tales one by one, the undercurrent of the central theme gradually becomes more prevalent to the viewers - each tale has a common thread, a particular grimness and eeriness that contributes to the overall unsettling atmosphere of the movie.

In one of the stories, we meet a pair of treasure hunters (portrayed by Kit Bateman and Eric Berggren) who come across a map that supposedly leads to an undiscovered treasure. As their journey leads them into unknown territories, they come face to face with unforeseen terrors. Their greed and curiosity become their downfall in a supernatural turn of events which leaves the audience on the edge of their seats.

In another tale, Erin Blaisdell lights up the screen as she plays an estranged housewife whose curiosity about her husband's suspicious activities drives her down a path of shocking discoveries. Her journey to uncover the truth ends up revealing a horrifying secret that she could never have anticipated. This twist of domestic horror adds another layer of suspense, making "Mortuary Massacre" a multi-faceted anthology.

The beauty of "Mortuary Massacre" lies in its ability to weave together multiple narratives, each with its distinctive style, yet correlating with the rest through the thematic undertones of horror, unease, and mystery. The casting is impressive with each actor delivering top-notch performances. Kit Bateman, Eric Berggren, and Erin Blaisdell shine in their respective roles, creating memorable characters that add to the overall terror and intrigue of the film.

The film's directors have made a commendable effort in creating an authentic horror anthology that pays homage to traditional horror tropes. Yet, the movie doesn't shy away from adding unique elements that set it apart from typical horror anthologies. They manage to strike a balance between providing the much-needed gory frights while maintaining an engaging storyline that keeps the audience invested.

"Mortuary Massacre" showcases impressive practical effects, successfully contributing to the sense of dread and terror. These effects, combined with dark humor, suspenseful storylines, and masterful acting, create a memorable viewing experience, making it a must-watch for horror anthology enthusiasts.

On the technical side, the cinematography, sound design, and editing are impeccably done, adding to the overall bleak and terrifying atmosphere. Scenes are shot and edited in a way that intensifies the fear factor, making the viewing experience substantially more immersive. The score matches the film's eerie tone, and the sound effects are chillingly effective.

"Mortuary Massacre" is distinct in its thematic approach, storytelling, character development, and visual execution. The film's primary strength lies in its ability to confront its audience with their worst fears, making them a part of the narrative. It will surely leave a lasting impact on the viewer's mind.

In conclusion, "Mortuary Massacre" is a spooky and grisly horror anthology that fearlessly explores the genre's various elements. If you enjoy horror movies that offer more than just your typical jump scares and are a fan of anthology-style narratives, "Mortuary Massacre" is definitely worth checking out. The performance of the cast, the uniqueness of each horrifying tale, and the masterful implementation of the shadowy and ominous atmosphere make it a shining star in the world of horror. Be prepared for chills, thrills, and a lot of goosebumps!