In VICIOUS FUN, Joel is a caustic film critic for a national horror magazine who unwittingly finds himself trapped in a self-help group for serial killers. With no other choice, he attempts to blend in with his homicidal surroundings or risk becoming the next victim. “Bloody, heartfelt, and hilarious, VICIOUS FUN is one of the best horror comedies in years” (Dread Central).
For thoughts on Vicious Fun, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic:
Video Quality
Vicious Fun comes to Blu-Ray with a fetching AVC encoded 1080p transfer that is honestly quite gorgeous. The cinematography features some striking pops of color with everything appearing very natural. These colors bring a vibrancy to the story that is appreciated in the way it keeps with the heightened ‘80s aesthetic. The picture is mostly clear with only brief instances of murkiness during a few of the darkest moments. While the film does not really feature much of anything in the way of daytime sequences, the transfer maintains an impressive level of detail both in the dimly lit interior sequences and more stark nighttime outside shots. Everything from the smallest facial details to the texture in the production design is quite impressive. Skin tones are natural throughout with some impeccable details present in certain shots. Overall, this is quite a powerful transfer that should please anyone who checks this out.
Audio Quality
The film comes with a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track that keeps with the ‘80s aesthetic and sounds great despite the lack of an expanded channel allotment. Environmental effects play a substantial role in the film, and this track brings these elements to life quite capably. While you might not have rear channels to create a fully immersive world, the track never feels lacking in any respect. The directionality is quite precise so sounds always present as natural when coming from their respective points. Dialogue comes through crisp and clear without being overwhelmed by any of the other sounds. Activity in the low end delivers some nice texture during the appropriate moments. RLJE Films has delivered a dandy track that packs a punch. There are English and Spanish subtitles for those who desire them.
Special Features
- Audio Commentary: Director/producer Cody Calahan, producer Chad Archibald, co-writer James Villeneuve, co-writer/producer Christopher Warre Smets, composer Steph Copeland, and cinematographer Jeff Maher provide a very lively and informative commentary track. The group have a good rapport with one another as they discuss details from the production, the evolution of certain characters, the decision to set the film in the ‘80s, the lighting of the film, the care they put into the production design, the music of the film and much more. Definitely seek out this track if you had fun with the film.
- Deleted Scenes & Alternate Takes: A nearly 10-minute collection of unused material is included here including Joel writing a scathing review, Joel trying to continue his lie in the sharing circle, more material with the police and more. There are some pretty funny moments and alternate takes included here.
- Blooper Reel: A nearly five-minute collection of flubbed or forgotten lines, laughing fits, goofing around, malfunctioning props and more.
- From Script To Screen: A brief look at the shooting script and how it compared to what we got in the final version of the film.
- BTS Photo Gallery: A four-minute video featuring photos from the production of the film.
- Trailer: The two-minute trailer is provided here.
Final Thoughts
Vicious Fun is a deviously chaotic ode to the fun of slasher films. While subverting this particular genre is nothing new, it is always a blast to see what twists and turns the creatives bring to the material. The concept is executed immensely well as you have consistent humor that does not feel forced mixed with wonderfully bloody carnage. While there is a weak link or two in the performances, for the most part the ensemble really delivers everything you want from them. RLJE Films has released a Blu-Ray with a great A/V presentation and a fun array of special features. While it can be difficult to stand out in a sea of modern horror films, Vicious Fun is one title that you should make a point to see. Recommended
Vicious Fun is currently available to purchase on Blu-Ray, DVD and Digital.
Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.
Disclaimer: RLJE Films has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
Dillon is most comfortable sitting around in a theatre all day watching both big budget and independent movies.