Slaughterhouse Rulez (2018) Movie Review: A Darkly Humorous Horror Comedy
Introduction
“Slaughterhouse Rulez,” directed by Crispian Mills and starring Finn Cole, Asa Butterfield, Hermione Corfield, and Simon Pegg, is a 2018 horror comedy that blends supernatural elements with dark humor. Set in a prestigious British boarding school, the film offers a satirical take on class divisions, corporate greed, and the chaos that ensues when ancient horrors are unleashed. With a mix of scares and laughs, “Slaughterhouse Rulez” aims to entertain fans of both genres.
Plot Summary
The film follows Don Wallace (Finn Cole), a working-class teenager who is sent to the elite Slaughterhouse boarding school. Struggling to fit in among the privileged students, Don befriends the rebellious Willoughby Blake (Asa Butterfield) and the resourceful Clemsie Lawrence (Hermione Corfield). The school is overseen by the eccentric headmaster, The Bat (Michael Sheen), and faculty members like the disillusioned teacher Meredith Houseman (Simon Pegg).
The plot thickens when a fracking operation near the school grounds opens a sinkhole, unleashing subterranean creatures that wreak havoc on the campus. As students and faculty fight for survival, Don and his friends must band together to confront the horrors and uncover the dark secrets of Slaughterhouse School.
Performance and Direction
Finn Cole delivers a solid performance as Don, capturing the character’s journey from outsider to reluctant hero. Asa Butterfield and Hermione Corfield provide strong support, with Butterfield’s portrayal of the troubled Willoughby adding depth to the film’s emotional core. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, known for their work in Edgar Wright’s Cornetto Trilogy, bring their signature humor to their roles, adding a layer of comedic relief to the film’s darker moments.
Director Crispian Mills effectively balances the horror and comedy elements, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The screenplay, co-written by Mills and Henry Fitzherbert, incorporates sharp satire and social commentary, addressing issues like class inequality and environmental destruction. The film’s visual effects and creature designs are well-executed, adding to the overall impact of the horror elements.
Critical Reception
“Slaughterhouse Rulez” received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a rating of 40%, indicating a range of responses. Critics praised the film’s humor, performances, and satirical edge but noted that its tone sometimes felt uneven. Some felt that the film struggled to balance its horror and comedy elements, while others appreciated its unique blend of genres and thematic ambition.
Streaming Availability
As of now, “Slaughterhouse Rulez” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV – Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu – Available for rent or purchase.
- YouTube Movies – Available for rent or purchase.
These streaming services provide convenient options for viewers to watch “Slaughterhouse Rulez” from the comfort of their homes.
Conclusion
“Slaughterhouse Rulez” is a darkly humorous horror comedy that offers a unique blend of supernatural scares and sharp satire. With strong performances from Finn Cole, Asa Butterfield, and Simon Pegg, the film delivers an entertaining and thought-provoking experience. Directed by Crispian Mills, “Slaughterhouse Rulez” successfully combines elements of horror and comedy while addressing relevant social issues. For those looking for a film that mixes laughs with thrills, “Slaughterhouse Rulez” is a solid choice and is readily available on multiple streaming platforms.
