review by Josh Keown Pro
Murder Party 2007
Rewatched Aug 18, 2012
Josh Keown’s review:
"When our masterpiece is complete, and the coroner’s report is back in, it will read the cause of death; Art."
-Alexander (Alex Barnett)
This film definitely needs more love!
I think many, myself included, overlooked it as poorly made garbage, the kind you’re likely to find in the bargain basement of trashy schlock. Instead, Murder Party offers a surprisingly enjoyable and witty satire.
It’s actually rather funny all the way through, and beyond the basic humour also works as a satire on the New York art scene. In a smart and unpretentious way, it makes sly remarks about pretentiousness. The black, situational comedy works very well. It was sometimes a little wacky and over-the-top, but I reckon this improved the experience overall.
The story is original, yet nothing too elaborate, and really only serves its functional purpose, but is strengthened by good performances from the cast. Chris Sharp (Whom bore an uncanny resemblance to Joe Pantoliano), in particular, was marvellous, as the hapless everyman caught in a sticky position. The rest of the cast provided suitably zany performances too, and everything is elevated by a great script. Despite being a low budget indie movie, it doesn’t feel amateur in any respect.
It’s got enough humour to satisfy comedy fans, and enough gore to sate lovers of horror. I would say it’s got potential to be a cult favourite in the future.
VERDICT; Kind of like Reservoir Dogs. Sort of. But with Joe Pantoliano. On Halloween. It reminded me very much of one of my all-time favourite novels, Chuck Palahniuk's Haunted, with fame hungry lunatics vying for stardom.
As others have said before me, this was a real surprise and genuine treat to watch.
a high 3/5 or 6/10
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