Movie Review: In A Violent Nature (2024)
Reviewed by Seth Metoyer, MoreHorrorMovies.com,
Written and directed by Chris Nash, In A Violent Nature takes us deep into the Ontario wilderness, where a mute killer, resurrected by a group of wayward teens, unleashes a reign of terror that plays out largely through his own dark, silent gaze. Starring Ry Barrett, Andrea Pavlovic, and Lauren-Marie Taylor, this slasher blends a chilling atmosphere, haunting sound design, and a unique perspective that takes viewers closer to the killer's mind than ever before.
From the very start, the film drops viewers into a brooding, almost suffocating environment where every crack of a twig and gust of wind feels meticulously crafted to gnaw at your nerves. The cinematography brings the Ontario wilderness to life as more than just a backdrop—it becomes a character in its own right. The forest, with its sprawling, seemingly endless terrain, feels both isolating and claustrophobic, amplifying the dread of being hunted. Watching this play out on screen, I couldn't help but imagine how perfectly the setting would translate to my cabin in Montana, which has a similar vibe with its small-town gas station and forest service nearby. The visual parallels alone stirred inspiration, reminding me of the script my brother and I have finished and plan to film, though In A Violent Nature sets its bar with its relentless approach to the slasher genre.
The eeriness of the killer's movement is one of the standout elements. His walking scenes are a masterclass in tension-building, with each step punctuated by unnerving sound design that gives us a raw glimpse into his relentless rage and single-minded dedication to his brutal mission. His stalking feels methodical, and unstoppable, with no music to break the tension—just the echo of his steps, his breath, and the eerie silence that surrounds him.
Speaking of sound—or the lack thereof—one of the most striking choices in In A Violent Nature is its decision to forgo a musical score. As a film composer myself, having scored music for three feature horror films, I couldn’t help but wonder how much a sick, brooding score could have elevated the tension even further. Yet, at the same time, I found myself appreciating the film's restraint. The absence of music added to the film's unsettling nature, making the silence around the killer's movements feel all the more eerie. In a way, I’m torn—part of me longed for the atmospheric touch a score could have brought, while another part of me admired the boldness of leaving the soundtrack in nature’s hands.
Now, let’s talk about the kills. In A Violent Nature does not hold back when it comes to gruesome violence, earning its place in the slasher hall of fame with some truly inventive, jaw-dropping deaths. One kill, in particular, earned the coveted 2024 Fangoria Chainsaw Award for "Best Kill," it’s no mystery why. Without spoiling too much, this death stands out not just for its brutality but for its creativity—it's the kind of moment that makes you gasp and cheer at the same time. And for the hardcore horror fans, there’s a clear nod to Jason Voorhees in both the sheer size and presence of the killer, as well as a couple of the film’s more savage kills.
Overall, In A Violent Nature may not be groundbreaking, but it’s a solid, well-produced indie horror flick that delivers the goods. As someone who’s produced around 20 indie films, I know how difficult it can be to juggle production value with budget constraints, and Nash pulls off some impressive feats here. It’s a fun ride—packed with blood, tension, and just enough creative flair to keep it from blending into the crowd. Definitely worth a watch for any slasher fan. Just be ready for a few sleepless nights.
In a Violent Nature (Official Trailer):