For those that don’t know I worked in a video store when I was younger, and while I would jump between stations, I’d always find a way to recommend films that were unlike the big films at occupied the most shelf space. One of those films was Session 9, and I never had a disappointed customer!
Oh, you want a “different kind of” scary film? Session 9!
Oh, you have a hot date tonight? Session 9!
Oh, you want you’re babysitting the weird neighbor kid? Session 9!
For me, Session 9 is one of those films where people talk about lightning in a bottle, this is what they are referring to. While I know some viewers find the film less than stellar, hell, I think we even have a mixed review posted on this very site, for me and my friends, back in 2001, it was everything! Sure, it draws inspiration from The Shining, but if you’re gonna take from somewhere, wouldn’t you want it to be from the best?
Anderson is also the mind behind The Machinist, and I remember this one being just as creepy. It didn’t get as many repeat viewings in my house, but it definitely packed a similar punch. As mentioned in our conversation, Anderson tends to bring a similar tone to all of his films, and in a weird way, they all fit within the same universe.
Blood is no exception. A mother recently separated from her husband, moves her daughter and young son Owen back into her family farmhouse. Shortly after settling in, Owen’s dog escapes into the woods and returns days later, blood-soaked and rabid. When the dog attacks and bites him, the resulting infection grows more shocking as Owen’s behavior becomes frightening and deadly. As he spirals deeper into the depths of the illness, Jess discovers a disturbing cure, which makes her question how far she is willing to go to keep her child alive.
Blood is just as brutal as the rest of Anderson’s catalog, and I suggest you give it a go when it becomes available. It’ll be in theaters on January 27 and also available On Demand on January 31.
Jessie Hobson