Chris Nash’s “In a Violent Nature” is a horror movie that defies conventions by presenting a slasher film from the killer’s perspective. The film follows Johnny, a hulking creature who has been dead for years, as he seeks vengeance on a group of teenagers who have brought him back to life. The movie’s unique approach and gruesome kills make it a standout in the genre.

trailer: In a Violent Nature

The Concept and Execution: In a Violent Nature

The film’s premise is deceptively simple: it is shot from the perspective of Johnny, a monster who is driven by a desire for revenge. The movie’s pacing is slow and methodical, with long stretches of Johnny walking through the forest, often in silence. This approach creates a sense of tension and unease, as the audience is forced to imagine what it would be like to be the killer. The film’s use of long takes and a vintage 4:3 aspect ratio adds to the sense of realism and immersion.

The acting in the film is generally pedestrian, but Ry Barrett’s performance as Johnny is noteworthy. His portrayal of the monster is both menacing and sympathetic, making it easy to understand his motivations. The supporting cast, including Andrea Pavlovic, Cameron Love, and Reece Presley, provide adequate performances but are overshadowed by Barrett’s presence.

The Kills and the Pacing

The kills in “In a Violent Nature” are gruesome and varied, ranging from beheading to drowning to axe-throwing. While the violence is intense, it is not the primary focus of the film. Instead, the pacing and atmosphere are what drive the movie forward. The slow and deliberate approach creates a sense of anticipation, making the kills all the more impactful.

However, the pacing can be a double-edged sword. The film’s 94-minute runtime can feel slow and plodding at times, particularly when Johnny is simply walking through the forest. The lack of a score also detracts from the tension and suspense, making the film feel more like a nature documentary than a horror movie.

The Themes and Impact: In a Violent Nature

“In a Violent Nature” is a film that challenges the conventions of the slasher genre. By presenting the killer’s perspective, the movie forces the audience to empathize with Johnny and understand his motivations. The film’s themes of revenge and the consequences of playing with forces beyond one’s control are well-explored and add depth to the movie.

While the film may not be for everyone, it is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre. “In a Violent Nature” is a unique and unsettling film that will leave audiences thinking long after the credits roll.

Citations:
[1] https://www.polygon.com/24051853/in-a-violent-nature-review-horror-movie-slasher-villain
[2] https://www.thehollywoodoutsider.com/in-a-violent-nature-2024-film-review/
[3] https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/in-a-violent-nature-film-review-2024
[4] https://www.pluggedin.com/movie-reviews/in-a-violent-nature-2024/
[5] https://keithandthemovies.com/2024/05/30/review-in-a-violent-nature-2024/