FILM REVIEW: The Cabin In The Woods

The ‘teenagers in the woods’ story has been done and re-done many times over the years, with a lot of different approaches. The Cabin in The Woods has done this the most originally, and is one of the more enjoyable versions of the classic horror story to watch.

Directed by Drew Goddard, and produced by Joss Wheadon, who, between them, have worked on the likes of Dollhouse, Firefly, Lost, Cloverfield and Buffy, the film is a must see for any fan of the director and producer, and the movie lives up to what you’d expect from the two. Wheadon has also included stars from his alumni, such as Amy Acker (Angel, Dollhouse) and Fran Kranz (Dollhouse) to make up the cast.

The movie itself is very well made, with great special effects, and the twist throughout is bound to keep viewers shocked and captivated. The story starts with the 5 students meeting up and getting into their camper van to spend the weekend in a cabin by the woods, with the writers choosing this time to define each character into their specific stereotypes, such as The Jock and The Slut. En route, they meet a creepy, toothless hick, suggesting the first sign that everything is not quite what it seems.

Although a little slow to get the blood and deaths started, the gore picks up very quickly after the first victim, and the storyline picks up its pace at the same time as well. The deaths of the victims are nothing spectacular, with only one standing out, but they are original enough to keep viewers horrified, but it’s the actual twist that keeps everyone more interested. In terms or acting, both Fran Kranz (Marty) and Kristen Connolly (Dana) are a standout, each playing their role very well.

Only after you realise what’s happening and that the horror isn’t all due to fate, do you realise that this movie is not like others from the genre. You don’t have to wait until the end to figure this out, as you get a lot of truth very early on. The movie is also full of comedic bits and funny one-liners, especially with the roles of Richard Jenkins (Steve Hadley) and Bradley Whitford (Richard Sitterson) adding some entertainment to the overall horror of the movie.

The Cabin In The Woods is due for a nationwide release on the 13 April 2012.