The Bottom Line
Pros
- Good acting
- Intelligent
- Some nice moments of humor
Cons
- Slow pace
- Too talky
- Plot goes nowhere
Description
- Starring Ross Partridge, Steve Zissis, Greta Gerwig, Elise Muller, Jett Garner
- Directed by Jay Duplass and Mark Duplass
- Rated R
- DVD Release Date: December 27, 2008
Guide Review - 'Baghead' DVD Review
Those who are familiar with the Duplass brothers' low-budget "mumblecore" indie films (like The Puffy Chair) might be surprised to see them directing a horror movie, but the reason is simple: Baghead isn't really a horror movie.
For a while, though, you're not sure. Baghead's plot is no different than any typical horror flick you've seen a million times: a pair of young couples head to a remote cabin the woods for a weekend. This weekend, however, is more about work than about standard slasher movie partying. These four are all struggling actors who want to write a script that will give them the quality parts they feel will boost their careers.
The first night, when Michelle has a nightmare about a man with a bag on his face, Matt thinks it's a great idea for a scary movie. Before he can convince the others, though, the foursome begins to see a mysterious bag-headed figure lurking in the woods. Has their story become reality?
It's hard to buy into the The Strangers-like horror elements of Baghead because they play such a second fiddle to the mumblecore standards of conversation, conversation and more conversation -- all of which sets a lethargic pace and understated tone that undermines the fleeting thrills.
More than an attempt to scare, the setup of the isolated cabin is an excuse to show mild-mannered people having mild-mannered conversations for mildly entertaining effect. The group dynamics and love triangle that develop, though, aren't especially interesting, even for a non-horror movie.
The DVD
Special features include commentary and director interview.
