Lowlifes: Review
“Lowlifes” takes a surprising twist from the typical horror movie formula. It begins with your average chase through the woods, as a man desperately tries to escape an unseen killer. In a swift and unexpected turn of events, the man is swiftly dispatched, setting the stage for a family camping trip. Enter the seemingly ordinary family of four: Keith, the responsible and straight-laced patriarch, diligently grilling up some barbecue; Kathleen, the loving and nurturing mother; Amy, the rebellious teenager; and Jeffrey, the spirited and eager-to-please youngster yearning for his father’s approval. They set up camp in the same woods where the previous chase took place.
Just as we settle into the familiarity of this family dynamic and the expected clichés, two hick locals named Vern and Billy make their appearance. They are searching for their brother, Melior, who we can assume was the unfortunate victim in the opening scene. However, instead of immediately terrorizing the family, Vern and Billy surprisingly extend a threatening gesture of hillbilly hospitality.
But the story takes yet another unexpected turn. “Lowlifes” defies conventions and breaks free from clichés, transforming what initially seemed like a typical tale of city folk being terrorized by hillbillies into something entirely different. This shift introduces a new level of unpredictability, challenging the audience’s expectations and delivering a fresh and thrilling narrative experience.
I’ll avoid spoilers for “Lowlifes,” but I must say, the twist emerges quite early, setting it apart from the typical horror fare. This twist flips expectations, adding an unpredictable edge. Although I had a sense of it, its execution was still quite satisfying. What unfolds is a gritty, relentless narrative where every member of the cast is pushed to their limits, tearing each other apart in a visceral display. And let’s talk about the gore — it’s fantastic. While not necessarily excessive, there’s a generous amount of blood and death to satisfy any horror fan. It’s the kind of gore that enhances the overall experience without overshadowing the story.
The lead performers in “Lowlifes” truly shine, each bringing depth and intensity to their roles. Matthew Macaull exudes a captivating presence, effortlessly transitioning from respectability to chaos. However, it’s Amanda Fix’s portrayal of Amy that steals the spotlight, navigating the twists and turns of her character with sharp emotional precision.
Brenna Llewellyn delivers an exceptional performance as one of the local girls, showcasing remarkable grit in her physically demanding role. Additionally, Richard Harmon’s presence, though in a smaller role, leaves a lasting impression. Known for his eerie characters, Harmon’s nuanced portrayal adds depth to the ensemble.
“Lowlifes” surpasses expectations across the board, boasting impressive acting, unexpected plot twists, and high-quality production. While it carries the Tubi Original label, often associated with mixed results, this film stands out as one of the platform’s finest offerings. Its narrative packs an unexpected punch, keeping viewers on the edge as they navigate the complexities of survival amidst a gripping city-versus-country battle.
Despite the familiar clash between city slickers and country folk, “Lowlifes” breathes new life into the narrative, offering a refreshing and enthralling perspective. It’s a film that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, with each twist and turn heightening the exhilarating experience.
This sensation of excitement and anticipation takes me back to the days when I’d stroll to my local video store on a Friday night with friends. There, we’d eagerly grab some of those deliciously trashy horror films that seem to have fallen out of favor with modern studios. Yet, their allure remains undeniable, filling a niche that we still crave. It’s truly reminiscent of those times — a fantastic experience! Keep them coming!
Grade: 4/5
LOWLIFES is out now on Tubi
