PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Many people remember the mid-century comedy duo, Abbott and Costello, who were famous for their sketch, Who’s on First? Movie fans will also remember the time when these two quirky personalities met the Mummy and Frankenstein. As an homage to these legendary comedians, Dave Campfield brings a strong element of those early comedy horror classics with a modern twist for his 2009 feature, Caesar and Otto’s Summer Camp Massacre.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBaqNWjbE80
When Caesar (Director Dave Campfield: Dark Chamber) unintentionally assaults the mentally challenged brother of the Chief of Police, he finds himself on the run with his half brother, Otto (Paul Chomicki). To aide in their efforts of hiding out, the duo procure summer jobs as camp counselors, despite their dislike for kids. Soon after settling into their new surroundings and meeting the other counselors, the pair’s artist father, Fred (Scott Aguilar), makes a surprise visit with shady intentions. However, this self-serving conman is not the only unexpected arrival.
Soon after the late appearance of mysterious camp counselor Carrie (Felissa Rose: Sleepaway Camp, Victor Crowley, Dark Chamber), bodies begin dropping one by one. With no phone reception in this remote area, the only connection they have to the outside world is the occasional mental patient escapee from a nearby asylum. Equipped with a low IQ and overzealous nature, the flamboyant Caesar and his dimwitted brother are Camp Sunsmile’s only hope as they stumble their way to answers and unmask the killer.
If Abbott and Costello were alive today, this would be their crossover with the 1983 cult classic, Sleepaway Camp. It is only fitting that such a film should feature Felissa Rose, whose career was launched by the fan favorite slasher. Rose gives an outstanding performance, sparking laughs while giving a level of mystery to her character, making the audience question everything until the final revelation. Many of the other cast members add to the lighthearted humor while Campfield and Chomicki have perfect chemistry in their roles as lovable idiots, playing off one another from beginning to end.
Other commendable aspects are the practical special effects that old school horror fans will gruesomely appreciate. The kills are simple but surprisingly gory for a film of this caliber. However, it does not overshadow the story and the plot retains a level of its own originality.
Fans who have no appreciation for over-the-top cheese with their horror will likely find little to no entertainment value in Summer Camp Massacre. However, those of us who enjoy quirky, campy fun along with the occasional blood soaked scene will enjoy this fun humorous ride that includes several nods to one of the most beloved slashers of the 80s.
