PopHorror Let's Get Scared
As we continue our coverage of the Horror-On-Sea 2023 Film Festival, we had the chance to catch the strange and bizarre horror anthology, Monsters in the Closet. Check out what we thought about the film.
First, check out the trailer!
Monsters in the Closet Synopsis
A woman searching for clues about her father’s death stumbles upon his newest book which is infused with black magic to bring his stories to life when they’re read out loud.
Monsters in the Closet is a 2022 comedy horror film, written and directed by Spencer Snygg (Beaster Day: Here Comes Peter Cottonhell 2014, The Obsession 2010), and Zachary Snygg (Mad Maxine: Frisky Road 2018, Beaster Day: Here Comes Peter Cottonhell 2014). It stars Tom Cikoski (Mad Maxine: Frisky Road 2018, Beaster Day: Here Comes Peter Cottonhell 2014), Jasmin Flores (Beaster Day: Here Comes Peter Cottonhell 2014), Denyse Hollis (Star of Jaipur 1998), Luke Couzens (Chimera 2011, Victims of Gravity 2011), Carmilla Crawford (Love Out of Mind 2014, Your Secret 2016), and Jordan Flippo (N.A. Netflixaholics Anonymous 2016, The Lawless 2021).
It also stars Francis James (The Diner 2018, Engaged 2019), Nelson JoaQuin (Army of the Dead 2021, Dragon: The Weapon of God 2022), John Fedele (Race to Witch Mountain 2009, The Mist 2007), Valerie Bittner (Just for the Time Being 2000, Beaster Day: Here Comes Peter Cottonhell 2014), and Charles Vitale (Obsession Goes to Far 2022).
Old School Anthology
This is a quirky, unique, unusual indie horror anthology, featuring four different stories with a wraparound tale bookending it all. The premise and concept are cool, but the segments are a bit underproduced and lack the visual complexity the amazing stories deserve. Regardless, it’s hysterical, exciting, and one terrifyingly good time.
The film isn’t for everybody. Instead, it’s old-school schlock aimed at the dedicated die-hard horror fans who are prone to watch anything and everything they can get their hands on. It’s in the vein of films such as Escapes (1986) and The Basement (1989).
There are a few areas in desperate need of attention. The acting is neither here nor there; some performances are far better than others. Also, the music and gore are subpar. Too many scenes quickly cut away from the action at inopportune times, combined with a sorely placed score.
The costumes could use a little work, along with the dialogue. The cinematography isn’t the best either, and the editing could benefit from a pick-me-up. However, it’s still a fun, unhinged, unconventional trip down the proverbial monster hole.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Monsters in the Closet is heinous, hilarious, and horrific. It’s vile, warped, and twisted as hell. Pure popcorn and schlock entertainment. If you like old-school b-horror film anthology throwbacks, then definitely check this one out. Just beware of Monsters.
Be sure to check out our other Horror-On-Sea 2023 Film Festival reviews, including 4 halloween, Pig Killer, Freeze, and Mask of the Devil!
