Co-written and co-produced by Pete Tombs, this represents two cinematic novelties. It’s the first foray into filmmaking for cult DVD specialists Mondo Macabre (watch out for an unsubtle bit of disc product placement) and a rare Pakistani venture into horror filmmaking. The unusual backdrop adds a degree of freshness though the influence of American teen horror extends to the character names (Vicky, Roxy, even O.J.!) and the movie ultimately falls back on roving Sam Raimi-styled camerawork instead of developing any sense of its own style.
Although the language (a combination of authentic Urdu and English) and setting make it feel different, the sad truth about HELL’S GROUND is that it’s largely old-hat, despite a surprising and abrupt tone change half way through.
A bunch of attractive young folks in a SCOOBY DOO-like van fail to heed the dire warnings of a mad local about the notorious “Hell’s Ground” on which they are about to set foot and party. Initially they are menaced by some sub-Romero zombies (spawned, it seems, by a contaminated water supply). When the flick takes a sharp turn into TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE territory, however, they are attacked by an all-too familiar fucked up backwoods family prone to bemoaning “Ever since that damned motorway, the whole world left us behind”. A burqa-masked, mace-wielding Leatherface-inspired villain provides some sense of menace, though the woodland chase scenes and fast-cut gore are mundane at best.
There are nice touches in Omar Ali Khan’s film : the comic book panels that punctuate the action are endearing and the often atmospheric visuals include one noteworthy shot of a full moon gradually obscured by blood. It is, however, too sluggishly paced and too lacking in any distinctive personality to warrant repeat viewing or genuine recommendation.
-Steven West
- Interview with J.R. Bookwalter - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Andrew J. Rausch - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Rick Popko and Dan West - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Director Stevan Mena (Malevolence) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Screenwriter Jeffery Reddick (Day of the Dead 2007) - January 22, 2015
- Teleconference interview with Mick Garris (Masters of Horror) - January 22, 2015
- A Day at the Morgue with Corri English (Unrest) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Writer/Director Nacho Cerda (The Abandoned, Aftermath) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Actress Thora Birch (Dark Corners, The Hole, American Beauty) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Actor Jason Behr, Plus Skinwalkers Press Coverage - January 22, 2015
