blessedmakerCurator
Overall7.2Fear3.8Atmos.7.5Gore6
Very much like an episode of The Twilight Zone. I really enjoyed going into it just having no idea what to expect or what was going on, trying to piece together the clues I had. And no, it's not a serial killer Barney (I know you were thinking it).
Do yourself a favor and don't look up any spoilers or summaries. Part of the experience is letting it unfold on you. It's weird, dark, twisted, funny, and unsettling, and horror movies these days don't do enough of that. I support movies that dare to push the boundaries of imagination and creativity instead of being beholden to meddling execs chasing a safer bet.
Buddy builds the unsettlingness meaningfully. At first the sing-along songs are happy and the kids seem to be too, and you start wondering why you paid money to sit in a theater and watch this. But then they're too happy, and things are too perfect. The cracks in the facade begin to show and the feeling of unease begins to sharpen. It's very well done, and it's supported by a good to great cast led by Freddy (Delaney Quinn), with Cristin Milioti anchoring it with a strong veteran presence. Topher Grace is also welcome as the skeptical paternal figure.
On the merits of creativity, and the willingness to take the risk of bringing a movie like this to theaters, it's an absolute must watch for any horror fan.
