Sunday, June 23, 2013

Elijah Wood is a “Maniac,” maniac on the floor… and he’s slashing like he’s never slashed before


"Maniac”
Not Rated, 89 minutes

When you think of actors who could play a serial killer, Elijah Wood doesn’t jump to the top of the list. But even with his tiny demeanor, Wood provides a creepy killer named Frank, who likes playing with mannequins in a remake of the 1980 slasher film.

Frank and one of his lady friends

             Shot in first person, we see and hear Wood, but only occasionally see his face in reflections/mirrors. The gimmick works in the beginning, but got kind of boring as the film forged on. It even cheats during some of the violent scenes, pulling back and letting us see all of the mayhem.
Speaking of the violence, “Maniac” pulls out all the stops as Wood continually scalps women for their hair (to put on his mannequins), severed limbs and plenty of blood. The film definitely earns its non-rating.

I bet she has a splitting headache 

“Maniac” starts off strong, but does drag during the third act on its way to the epic conclusion. I still think Joe Spinell is the better Frank, but Wood has to rely on lots of heavy breathing and whispers to emote fear, whereas Spinell just looks creepy.

Joe Spinell was one creepy dude

Along with the gore aspect, the film gave off a “Drive”-type of vibe with an opening credit driving sequence and soundtrack full of electro pop. It was an unexpected bonus in my book.
            Sure, Elijah Wood isn’t that scary, but once he starts slicing foreheads the terror builds. I would highly suggest checking out the 1980 original, but I know most of you won’t, so throw down a few bucks on this creepy thriller. 


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