Best Horror Movie of the Summer: 'Weapons' Review

A Fresh Take on Horror with "Weapons"

"Weapons," a new horror film directed by Zach Cregger, is a standout in a summer dominated by sequels and reboots. With a runtime of 128 minutes and an R rating for its strong bloody violence and grisly images, this movie offers a unique blend of unpredictability and creativity that sets it apart from the usual Hollywood fare.

From the very beginning, "Weapons" grabs attention with a mysterious premise: 17 fifth graders from the same suburban classroom all mysteriously ran away from their homes at 2:17 a.m. one night and went missing. The plot twists and turns in ways that are both startling and unsettling, making the experience akin to being blindfolded and thrown into a trunk—except fun.

The central question of the film is where did all the kids go? Could their disappearance be a coordinated kidnapping, an act of God, or perhaps an alien abduction? This intense problem to solve raises the stakes significantly, as the loss of 17 children creates a sense of urgency and emotional weight that is rarely seen in films.

The community depicted in the movie feels off from the start, drawing comparisons to the HBO drama "The Leftovers" and recent films like "Longlegs" with Nicolas Cage. It also echoes the eerie atmosphere of "Blair Witch Project." Cregger infuses elements of "It" and "Stranger Things" into the narrative, exploring the dark underbelly of a seemingly idyllic town where young people face pure evil.

The film's narrative is structured in chapters, each focusing on different characters. Josh Brolin plays a determined parent, while Austin Abrams brings humor to his role as a burnout drug dealer. Alden Ehrenreich, a talented actor who has been less visible lately, portrays a troubled cop. Amy Madigan delivers a delicate performance as Aunt Gladys, adding depth to the story.

Julia Garner, known for her enigmatic presence, plays Justine, a teacher suspected of involvement in the children's disappearance. Her performance exudes an energy that suggests she might pick a fight with someone at the grocery store, fueling the sinister vibe of the small town. She is a weapon in her own right, embodying the tension that permeates the film.

The adult characters in "Weapons" are deeply flawed, ranging from self-interested addicts to weirdos and brutes. Each character contributes to the story's satisfying conclusion, even if many do not make it to the credits. No real hero emerges until the final 10 minutes, highlighting the film's focus on collective responsibility rather than individual heroism.

In a year when many movies have been boring, flabby, unnecessary, nostalgic, dumb, cheap, or a mix of these, "Weapons" stands out as a gripping and clever piece of work. Cregger proves that horror not only often has the most blood but also the most guts. His film is a testament to the power of original storytelling and the potential for horror to deliver something truly fresh and exciting.

With its unpredictable narrative, compelling characters, and atmospheric setting, "Weapons" is a must-see for fans of the genre. It challenges the conventions of horror and offers a unique viewing experience that is both frightening and oddly funny, eccentric, spine-tingling, grotesque, and ultimately sad.