A sociopathic teen learns his elderly neighbor is
a vicious serial killer and a supernatural monster. HORROR
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I Am Not a Serial Killer (2016)Directed by Billy O'Brien
Written by Billy O'Brien and Christopher Hyde Starring Max Records, Christopher Lloyd, Laura Fraser, Christina Baldwin, Karl Geary, Dee Noah Based on the novel by Dan Wells |
I don't quite know where to begin with I Am Not a Serial Killer. It was not at all what I expected, and features some gruesome imagery and a unique story. The idea of your neighbor being a vicious monster has been done to death from Rear Window to Fright Night but the way this film kinda makes both the hero and the villain monsters is mesmerizing. You don't really have anyone to root for. You're just watching a young sociopath screw with a much older, experienced serial killer until he gets too close. Think Mr. Brooks without Dane Cook and with a supernatural twang.
John Cleaver (Max Records) is a teen with an emotional disorder. According to his therapist, he's a classic sociopath with zero empathy. He's obsessed with serial killers and recognizes their traits in himself. When he learns his neighbor Bill Crowley (Christopher Lloyd in his best work in decades) is actually a supernatural monster who's been harvesting body parts for years, he follows him around and taunts him inexplicably. That's the part that almost lost me. Once he learns about Crowley, he never does anything. I understand he wouldn't call the cops, but I figured he'd try to take him out personally or kill somebody and frame him. Regardless, the third act gets up close and personal once Crowley learns about John. I won't spoil it, but it's weird and freaky. I Am Not a Serial Killer is an oddball, but an entertaining one. It's so cool to see Christopher Lloyd still getting work, and even more exciting to see him as a bad guy again. It's got that indie film mojo but also that low-budget horror film shine. There's something for everyone with this weirdo flick and it has my endorsement. Check it out. |