Eli Roth blends classic horror with a modern twist, delivering a fun slasher film set in a post-Black Friday chaos.
VERDICT
“Thanksgiving,” directed by Eli Roth and starring Patrick Dempsey, Nalen Thomas Brookes, and Nell Verlaque, is a horror movie inspired by the fake trailers from “Grindhouse.” The film spins a revenge narrative set against the backdrop of a Black Friday sale tragedy at a superstore, leading to a year-long build-up to a vengeful killing spree.
Roth, known for his work in “Hostel” and “Cabin Fever,” seems to have returned to form with this project. He skillfully navigates the slasher horror genre, infusing creativity in how the antagonist, ‘John Carver’ executes his plans. The film doesn’t revolutionise the horror genre but comfortably fits within the traditions set by classics like “Halloween” and “Friday the 13th.”
Milan Chadima, the cinematographer, known for his work on the original spoof trailer, brings a fresh perspective to this retelling. His compositions, while not groundbreaking, complement the film’s script, enhancing the storytelling, especially during the pivotal scenes of demise.
The movie tries not to take itself too seriously, and seems to understand its place in the horror genre. It doesn’t aim to reinvent but rather to entertain, embracing its identity as a fun, slightly campy horror flick. This approach makes it accessible to a wide audience, appealing to both traditional horror fans and those looking for an enjoyable, yet, thrilling movie experience.
Channeling the ‘80s for new cinema
The film is a reminder of the era it seeks to emulate, the 80s, a time when horror films were straightforward in their approach to suspense and terror. Modern audiences might find this style either refreshingly nostalgic or somewhat outdated, depending on their preferences for horror cinema.
It’s a film that offers a fun, albeit not particularly innovative, addition to the horror genre. It’s a movie best enjoyed without overanalysing, a tribute to the classic era of slasher films. Eli Roth and horror fans will find it an entertaining film with a classic touch built for “Thanksgiving”, all in all making it a satisfying watch.
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