Evil and ruthless religious zealot Bascum (well played with smooth menace by Robert Miano) rules over a small town with an iron fist. Vengeful Donnie (a fine performance by Nick Heyman) decides to take Bascum down for good for torturing his mother Babs.

Writers/directors Joe DeBoer and Kyle McConaghy relate the absorbing oddball story at a steady pace, maintain a dark brooding tone throughout, vividly evoke the grimly oppressive nature of the hellish small town, make nice use of dingy'n'desolate locations, and make a strong statement on how religion and intimidation can be used as a means to control people's lives. The sound acting from the sturdy cast keeps this movie humming: Sterling Macer Jr. As helpful outsider Milt, Suzan Crowley as the no-nonsense Rhoda, Mathew Greer as beaten down hotel owner Mr. Harold, David Gridley as cheerful dimwit Brenton, Jessica Treska as Donnie's spunky sister Bean, and Brynn Horrocks as weary waitress Miss Sheri. A neat little movie.

I got this film at the dollar store assuming it to be a cheap B movie. I was definitely fooled by the cover of the box however as I was soon to discover a really special find. My brief summary is that this is a really well made film and it has definitely stuck with me. I would say it is underrated but it's not even, considering how few people have seen it. It is still a small production and has some flaws but it still is worth watching in my opinion. There are several reasons that really make this film a good watch. First I would like to point out that the film is well choreographed and is shot on film. The film optimizes color very well, especially in saturation to convey its tones and overall, the way the camera is used gives a feeling of discomfort that intentionally adds to the dread of the film. The movie also has adequate sound design and a score that works very well with the film. The setting of the film is bleak and uninviting, with sets that really drive home the eerie feeling of the dying 1950s town. The acting is good as well, not always on par with a higher budget movie but definitely in the scenes that matter most. I really enjoyed this film overall and it was clearly made with a lot of thought and care. The film really sets in the feeling of dread and despite being a little hard to follow and slow especially towards the end I think it is definitely worth watching. This film definitely gave me a lot to think about and I am very glad I stumbled upon it. For the reasons above and more, I give this film a 8/10.

In the dark,to hide away cheap sets and b-acting.im trying to be positive, but this is merely like smearing margarine on a slice of corn bread,without arms and legs. Sound recs is done using ggp's 1947 hearing aids.