In A Violent Nature (2024)

Rating: 4.5/5

Plot Summary

"In A Violent Nature" (2024) is shaking up the slasher scene with a fresh twist that would make even the most jaded horror fan sit up and take notice. Hats off to writer and director Chris Nash for daring to mix it up while still tipping his hat to the slasher classics we all love. This film follows a group of friends who decide that the Canadian wilderness is the perfect place for a getaway—until they realize it's less "Instagrammable nature shots" and more "run for your lives." The movie’s long take shots and complete absence of a musical score create a tension that feels more like a wildlife documentary, right up until it pounces with sudden and brutal violence. Just when you're lulled into thinking it’s all trees and tranquility, BAM! You’re clutching your popcorn for dear life.

Chopping Block - Hits & Misses

Hits

• The long take shots and the eerie silence crank up the nerve-wracking tension to eleven.

• Stunning cinematography of the Canadian wilderness really amps up the eerie and isolated vibe.

• This one's a win in my book, but be warned: the sudden brutality might be a bit much if you're not ready for some serious shocks.
  

Misses

• The slow burn might test your patience if you’re not a fan of the gradual tension build-up.

• The silence and minimal dialogue might make the film feel a bit too quiet for some viewers.

• Some of the acting felt a bit average. While there’s not a ton of dialogue, a few deliveries were a bit, well, underwhelming.

Full Review

• Scare Factor — Points: 1 "In A Violent Nature" nails creating a chilling atmosphere without resorting to cheap jump scares. The tension builds like a slow cooker, and when it finally boils over, the bursts of violence are both shocking and effective. It’s a masterclass in using silence to amplify fear.

• Storyline and Plot — Points: 1 The plot is simple yet innovative, striking a balance between artistic ambition and genre expectations. It dodges clichés and instead delivers a fresh take on the slasher formula. The storytelling is brutally engaging, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

• Atmosphere and Setting — Points: 1 The cinematography is a visual feast, capturing the eerie beauty of the Canadian wilderness. The lack of a musical score amps up the tension and immersion, making you feel like you’re watching a nature documentary that’s gone horribly, horribly wrong.

• Special Effects and Makeup — Points: 1 The practical effects and makeup are top-notch, adding to the film’s gritty realism. The violence is disturbingly visceral, with special effects that make you wince (in a good way, if you’re a horror fan)

• Acting and Performances — Points: .5 Ry Barrett, Andrea Pavlovic, and Lauren-Marie Taylor do their best to bring some depth to their roles. While their portrayal of characters trapped in a relentless nightmare adds some believability to the horror, a few performances felt a bit flat and didn't quite hit the mark. Which, to me, was fine because I liked the POV focus on the killer's perspective.

Final Verdict

"In A Violent Nature" is a breath of fresh air in the horror genre. Its unique approach and visual excellence make it a standout film of 2024. If you're craving a slasher that’s equal parts classic and innovative, this one's for you. Just don't blame me if you never look at nature documentaries the same way again.

Rating: 4.5/5

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