I enjoy nothing more than discovering an awesome new indie horror film. There are certain filmmakers that can really speak to you through their story/script. Jason Zink is, without a doubt, one of those filmmakers. I am excited to tell you all why I fancied his film, Straight Edge Kegger. My review has a few spoilers, but I feel like my words don’t even do the film justice. Check it out here!
Official Synopsis of Straight Edge Kegger:
A young punk and a houseful of drunks square off against the gang of militant straight edgers that he’s abandoned.
What Works:
First and foremost, the soundtrack for Straight Edge Kegger is legit off the chain. The opening scene alone sets the tone for the entire film. It’s a mosh of rage, and you know things are going to get bat shit crazy from the get go.
Secondly, the premise is so unique. I love that the straight edgers are the villains. Going into the film, I honestly thought it would be the other way around. The spin of taking out the partygoers is beyond brilliant. I think this works so well because, being a party girl in school, there were always the ones who would judge you for getting down with the booze, and then vice versa for those ones who didn’t. Zink integrates this perfectly in his script.
The next reason that I am head over heels for Straight Edge Kegger is the use of all of the creepy masks. Some of my favorite films, like The Strangers (2008), implement the use of masks, and I feel it adds to the essence of the film. Straight Edge Kegger is no exception. There is just something scary about regular, every day people hiding behind a mask to do unthinkable things.
I also really dug the the torture of some of the partygoers. Does the punishment fit the crime? As you can see below, a funnel is being used. So clever. Zink really thought out every detail, from wardrobe to props, and it shows.
Lastly, the cast and crew of Straight Edge Kegger really vibe. Cory Kays and Julio Alexander’s dynamic performances of being at odds conveys perfectly across the screen. Kays’ internal conflicts will resonate with a lot of people. This is peer pressure at its finest! Bravo to all involved.
Final Thoughts:
Jason Zink’s direction in Straight Edge Kegger leads me to think we have the next Larry Clark (Kids, Bully, Ken Park) on our hands. Both filmmakers convey this solemn, authentic feel. I am excited to see what this whole cast and crew does in the future. Straight Edge Kegger is now available for purchase of April 3, 2020. Check it out and let us know what you think in the comments below!