An Instant Horror Classic

Rating: 10/10 (15 April 2012)

We all know the classic tropes of Horror films ever since Scream brought forth its classic rules to survive in this genre. Nowadays, those rules have been reflecting in just about every Horror film being released where there are gratuitous amounts of gore, sex, and drug use. There almost seems to be no hope left in Hollywood either due to their wastes of money with releasing constant remakes and sequels that are just used as money grabbers but have no substance at all. Then, faster than a speeding bullet comes Joss Whedon to rescue the genre for all Horror fans. Whedon has developed a titanic fan base because of his television work with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, Dollhouse, and Dr. Horrible's Sing-A-Long. He is well known for his combination of horrific violence with slapstick to create perfect self referential stories with much depth and symbolism that calls back to American society. The Cabin in the Woods is the wake up call our generation, and Hollywood, needs. With a perfect cast, sharp and witty writing, clever scares, and a thousand twists, The Cabin in the Woods goes beyond the level of a Horror masterpiece, and is sure to become an instant classic.
Now, before going any further, I will express some incredibly important pieces of information to all. First, I have a set list of Horror films that I consider the "best of the best," and the top 10 is reserved for strictly the classics, like Psycho, The Exorcist, A Nightmare on Elm Street, etc. After seeing this movie only once, I can say without a doubt that this film has become my second favorite Horror film of all time! Second, this film is a spectacular Horror film; however, I cannot tell anything about it. This is a special type of film, where you have to see it for yourself. It's the type of movie you need to go to the theaters to see with a group of friends and then discuss with only those friends afterwards. I'm sure though with the horrible spoilers on the internet that some may learn some things. However, I cannot express enough how important it is that you do not listen to anyone who has seen the movie. You must see it for yourself!
Now that that is out of the way, I will review the film with no spoilers at all. First, the acting was terrific. Joss Whedon has assembled some of the finest actors for this movie, like Chris Hemsworth, and some are even new actors. They all perform very convincingly, and you feel for each of the characters in the film. Next, there is the cinematography which is fantastic. Joss Whedon is not only a master with a pen, but when partnered with Cloverfield's Drew Goddard, he is a master of the camera. The camera work was perfect and crisp for each scene. Furthermore, with a great score this film really knows how to revitalize the classic atmospheres of Horror. Whedon knows exactly what to do to bring the classic Horror film back to life. Meanwhile, there is the writing which is sharp, witty, hilarious, and incredibly sinister. There is a huge mouthful of cynicism in every line given in this film that adds to the overall effect. Also, if you think that you know the story from the trailers, then I have two words for you. THINK AGAIN!!! This film knows what you expect, and then kicks you right in between the legs and sucker punches you over and over and over again. You never know where this film is going to go, as each moment twists and turns until you are basically turned into a giant Rubik's cube (like the house in the poster). Moreover, the film has an extremely high octane entertainment factor because it is the most original Horror film to be released in nearly a decade. To give you a hint, once the end credits started, the theater I was in erupted in cheers and applause. I have never experienced this before.
Thus, I come to the end of my review for what has to be the best film of 2012 so far. Joss Whedon deserves a round of applause for this work of Horror GENIUS, and Hollywood now needs to learn what it owes Horror fans. The film is a passionate love letter to Horror fans that I will gladly accept, and if you enjoy originality, cleverness, and pure adrenaline-rushing entertainment in your Horror, then look no further. The Cabin in the Woods is everything Horror fans have been waiting for, and people will be talking about this film for many many years to come.