The Hamiltons (After Dark Horrorfest 2006 Review)

Plot
Francis, the youngest and most sensitive of the Hamilton’s, is using video camera to work on a school project about his family. Through the camera lens we get to know the Hamilton’s and realize that there are much more disturbing elements lurking below the surface of this "ordinary" family.

Jason's Thoughts
This After Dark Horrorfest offering was a bit different from the rest that I have seen thus far. It almost seemed like it was half horror and half family drama as opposed to a full on horror film. When you get down to it, The Hamiltons really is a coming of age film not unlike any other John Hughes movie mixed with flashes of Toby Hooper ala the Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

As the movie progresses, we get glimpses into the Hamilton lifestyle through the eyes of Francis, the youngest and most withdrawn member of the family, and his video camera. For the most part, Francis seems to be a reluctant member of the family and tries to act differently from his older siblings. This is the source of tension between him and the rest of the family, which ultimately comes to a head with a twist ending.

The story itself is unique and I really wanted to rate it higher than I did, however, aside from the plot the rest of the movie is sub par. This movie is about as independent as you can get without crossing the line into the student film realm. A lot of the acting and camera work is of poor quality and there are some lulls in the movie, but thankfully it gives you enough to keep interest.

I have suffered through many low budget films before, but this is one that I am happy to have made it through.  The ending alone is unexpected and worth while. As you may have noticed, I am saying very little about the actual film itself as I feel the less you know the better it will be for anyone who watches it.

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