V/H/S/85 - A Blast from the VHS Past

A Found Footage Frenzy From the 80s

Remember the days of flickering screens and grainy VHS tapes? V/H/S/85, a horror anthology directed by David Bruckner, Scott Derrickson, and Natasha Kermani, throws you right back into that era, but with a far more terrifying twist! This 110-minute thrill ride promises more than just jump scares; it aims for a nostalgic horror experience, complete with all the glorious cheesiness of the decade. Prepare for a viewing experience that will leave you reaching for the rewind button...or maybe just the lights!

Synopsis: When the 80s Went Wrong

Five tales of found footage terror, all unveiled within the context of a vintage made-for-TV documentary. Think cheesy synthwave, questionable fashion choices, and terror so real you'll want to hide behind the couch! The anthology features a cast of characters caught in unsettling situations – think killer clowns, demonic possessions, and things that go bump in the night. And let's be honest, the hair alone is enough to give you nightmares.

Technical Terror: A Masterclass in 80s Aesthetics

The cinematography is a masterful recreation of the low-budget horror aesthetic of the 1980s. Think grainy visuals, shaky camera work, and lighting choices that would make even a horror aficionado squint! The sound design is equally effective, creating an unsettling atmosphere reminiscent of classic horror films. It's like a time machine, but one powered by pure dread – it's practically a haunted Atari game come to life!

Performances That Haunt the Screen (and your Dreams)

Alex Galick, Chelsey Grant, and Anna Sundberg deliver performances that manage to be both engaging and believably terrified. In a film full of jump scares and surreal moments, they keep you rooted in a sense of reality – or at least the reality of found footage horror. It's a testament to their acting prowess that despite the sometimes absurd situations, their reactions remain credible, which makes it that much more terrifying.

Themes of Retro Dread and Modern Anxiety

V/H/S/85 isn't just about jump scares; it subtly explores themes of paranoia, societal anxieties, and the unsettling underbelly of seemingly normal environments – all presented through the warped lens of the 1980s. It acts as a mirror, reflecting our own fears and anxieties back at us, dressed up in 80s-style retro horror. The result is a nostalgic yet genuinely unsettling viewing experience. Honestly, you'll probably be checking your closet after this one.

Final Verdict: A Rewindable Retro-Horror Ride

V/H/S/85 is a stylish and effective horror anthology that excels in capturing the atmosphere of 80s horror, adding a modern twist of unsettling dread. While it might not be for the faint of heart (or those with a deep-seated fear of bad haircuts), the film successfully blends nostalgia with genuine scares. Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars (it’s got that 80s charm, but could use a little more polish) Recommended for: Fans of found footage horror, 80s nostalgia buffs, and anyone who enjoys a good scare (with a retro twist). In conclusion, V/H/S/85 is like finding a dusty VHS tape in your attic – initially intriguing, then occasionally terrifying, and ultimately a memorable, if slightly grainy, cinematic experience. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go check my closet again.

Note : 5/5

Publié le 19 Jan 2025