It’s been a long (long) time coming, but I can finally say that I’ve seen the home invasion horror movie that’s been on my must-see list for the past two years. That’s right, originally premiering back in 2011, You’re Next has made its way to theaters nationwide and while the film doesn’t really “upend the horror genre” it’s a fascinating thrill ride full of bloody terror and black comedy.
Written by Simon Barrett and directed by Adam Wingard (Home Sick, Pop Skull), the film stars a relative cast of seasoned, but lesser known, actors (with exception of Barbara Crampton) all of whom doing an amazing job. When the Davison family comes together for their parent’s 35th anniversary, they feel like a real family. There’s happy homecomings, bickering between brothers and even a bit of tension between the father’s expectations and his son (Crispian played by AJ Bowen). On top of that, Wingard also manages to sneak in a few amusing, yet unobtrusive, cameos for his fellow indie directors; Larry Fessenden, Calvin Reeder, Joe Swanberg and even Ti West.
The standout role, however, has to be that of Erin (Sharni Vinson) who manages to make it to “Final Girl” status without coming off as helpless victim or a complete badass. Instead she sits somewhere comfortably in-between which works perfectly to ensure we’re never quite certain what will ultimately happen until the end. And that’s the best part. While there are some formulaic elements to the stalk-and-slash antics of the film’s main villains (Lamb Mask, Tiger Mask and Fox Mask), You’re Next strays just enough from them that you never feel bored.
Much like Scream, the film does have a sense of self-awareness but it never lingers on any one moment long enough to become outright parody. Overall the humor originates more due to the script’s sharp wit rather than outright wisecracks. Even the most splatterific kill scene (involving a blender and puréed brains) has a pragmatic quality to it and yet you’ll find yourself cheering enthusiastically in your seat. If you’re looking for something fresh and yet somehow familiar, then definitely check this film out!
