‘Red Spring’ (2019) Is A Brilliant Take On The Vampire Genre

Red Spring, the amazing directorial debut from Jeff Sinasac, is a bold, fresh take on the vampire genre. The film stars Sinasac, Elysia White, Adam Cronheim, Jonathan Robbins, Lindsey Middleton, and Reece Presley.

Synopsis:

The world has been ravaged by vampires.A group of survivors band together to search for loved ones who may be alive, dead or something in between, eventually taking shelter in what may be the only safe hideout left to them. But well defended hideouts have a way of becoming prisons. And prisons aren’t the safest place to be when your friends can turn on you at any time.

I went into Red Spring with almost no knowledge of the film, which made what followed a pleasant surprise. Jeff Sinasac (as the idealistic Ray) leads a group of survivors who are scrambling to escape the bands of vampires that are chasing them relentlessly. This group is soon joined by Elysia White (as a resourceful Vicky), who leads them to a fallout shelter where they find themselves making a desperate last stand.

What I love about this movie is that the vampires are almost a vampire/zombie hybrid. They are smart and deliberate, and they can plan ahead, drive cars and use guns. But, at the same time, they move in large hordes, eat in a feral manner, have no language, and can even move in indirect daylight. These changes add a layer of the unexpected to the film. You’re never quite certain what The Rules are, or when the attacks will come.

There was no doubt that this is a low budget film, but it’s big on everything else. The writing is thoughtful and intelligent. The script takes its time allowing the audience to develop relationships with the characters. In doing so, the action that follows means a lot more to the audience. These are not just walking meals; they are characters whom we have come to care about. The practical vampire effects are pretty terrific, too, while the crisp editing keeps the action scenes moving. I’d also like to give a shout out to Andre Guantanamo, who has such a menacing presence as the Vampire Leader.

Watch Red Spring right now!

The acting is really terrific, especially from Jeff Sinasac and Elysia White. Both have fully fleshed characters who make thoughtful, rational decisions while sticking to their core beliefs and maintaining the sympathy of the audience. It’s a delicate balancing act that both actors handle beautifully. This is a movie about survival of not only the body, but also the spirit. Red Spring is an absolute must see for the vampire/zombie/low budget film fans. I’m looking forward to seeing what else Jeff Sinasac has in store for us!

 

About Christine Burnham

When not writing, Christine Burnham is watching TV, Horror films, reading, cooking, and spending time with her menagerie of animals.

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