Skinned Deep, an American thriller directed by Gabriel Bartalos and released in 2004, should be highly recommended to lovers that love the horror genre. The Rockwell family is lost on the highway and ends up staying with an oddball family as a result. The family consists of a mother and three sons who go by the names of Brain, Plates, and Surgeon General (Jason Dugre and Warwick Davis respectively) (Kurt Carley). The story gets more complicated, it becomes apparent that the family is involved in illegal activity and presents a risk to the Rockwells. The news comes as no surprise.
Skinned Deep is an unforgettable horror film because of its extravagant set pieces and costumes, its funny moments, and its lightning-fast cutting. The humor and speed of the film were lauded by the reviewer of Variety, Dennis Harvey, who described the movie as "funny but also a bit repetitive." Yet, Steve Barton of Dread Central just gave the film 2.5 stars, noting its repetition of old-fashioned cliches as well as repetitive narrative as reasons behind his rating. Because of its special effects, an aesthetic that evokes the 1980s, and the frenzied rhythm, Ryan Larson of Bloody Disgusting called it "one very funny and absurd horror films of the decade."
The poor budget that the film received was not enough to keep Bartalos from creating a thriller film that resembled The Texas Chain Saw Massacre or The Hills Have Eyes. Instead, he improvised the science fiction/slasher combo that's totally unintelligible, not to mention completely off the wall. The fact that Bartalos previously worked on the special effects for the well-known horror films like "Frankenhooker" and "Brain Damage" prior to collaborating on "Skinned deep" is proof of his love for the absurd.
Skinned Deep is a good selection for horror buffs who are looking for something different to watch despite its limited budget and outdated effects which may turn off certain viewers. After the first half hour, which feels like the exact sameness of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre It takes some unexpected turns that make an original film in the horror genre of decade. This is what helps the film gain its status as one of some of the finest in the genre. The film is a slasher film which will stay with you because of its distinctive tone as well as its eccentric cast, which features the crazy plate-throwing person known as Plates and the Surgeon General.
The most recollected aspects of Skinned Deep are the various creature designs and effects employed throughout the movie. Bartalos, who works in the field of visual effects, conjures up an ensemble of bizarre and terrifyingly fascinating individuals and then brings those characters alive. The characters, ranging from the dangerous plates that throw plates to the armored Surgeon General, each possess distinct appearances and personas, which are reflected in their respective designs. A lot of effort was put into both the makeup and clothes, which is primarily responsible in the film's strange atmosphere.
The movie's use of realistic effects, music that was heavily influenced by the 80s, and vibrant color palette all make up the film's distinctive nostalgic atmosphere. In addition, while adding something fresh to the horror genre it pays homage some of the most renowned films of the subgenre's past.
Despite having a narrative that has been previously done, the execution of the film is where its strengths are. The audience (movie review Decker Shado) is constantly on the edge of their seats by the world created by Bartalos due to its being both unpredictably and bizarre. There won't be much time to catch your breath in between the many act of violence, mayhem and violence which are expected to occur.
Some people might not be able to appreciate Skinned Deep. It's eerie, peculiar, and even strange at times. It's very strange. But, those who are looking to see an original film that takes chances within the genre should certainly take a look. Skinned Deep is able to differentiate itself from other horror movies due to the fact that it is based on an original concept and also that Bartalos placed emphasis on the production of realistic effects.