Stream is a wild ride that brings together an impressive roster of horror icons while delivering a gruesome, if somewhat uneven, slasher experience. Directed by Michael Leavy, the film follows the Keenan family on what is supposed to be a simple weekend getaway. However, their plans quickly unravel as they find themselves trapped in a hotel with four deranged killers competing in a sadistic game of creative murder. The result is a blood-soaked battle for survival that blends elements of horror, dark humor, and relentless gore.
The premise is intriguing, and the film delivers on its promise of over-the-top kills. Damien Leone's practical effects are a highlight, showcasing some truly unique and brutal death scenes. While there isn't anything as jaw-dropping as the infamous bedroom scene in Terrifier 2 or the yoga kill from In a Violent Nature, Stream offers its own brand of twisted carnage. The scene involving a game of tic-tac-toe, for example, stands out for its creativity and the exceptional makeup work that makes it both horrifying and memorable.
However, the film's pacing is a double-edged sword. At over two hours long, Stream suffers from the same issue as Terrifier 2—it simply overstays its welcome. The extended runtime, coupled with a mid-credits teaser and an after-credits first look that feels more like behind-the-scenes filler, suggests that the film could have benefited from tighter editing. The narrative meanders at times, and while the various subplots keep things interesting, they also contribute to the feeling that the film is a bit overstuffed.
The cast is a veritable who's who of the horror convention circuit, which is both a strength and a weakness. Jeffrey Combs is the undeniable highlight, delivering what might be his best performance yet. Even for those who aren’t huge fans of Re-Animator, Combs' portrayal here is compelling, filled with sharp one-liners that are sure to become instant favorites among viewers. His performance alone might reignite interest in his career and introduce him to a new generation of fans.
Charles Edwin Powell also delivers a standout performance as Roy Keenan, the father determined to keep his family safe. His portrayal is genuine and relatable, and his chemistry with the rest of the cast adds emotional weight to the film. On the other hand, David Howard Thornton, known for his role as Art the Clown, feels somewhat typecast here. While his physicality and control are impressive, his character in Stream feels too similar to Art, making his performance feel repetitive and lacking in fresh appeal.
The film’s plethora of cameos can be a bit overwhelming. While it’s fun for horror fans to spot familiar faces, the sheer number of them verges on distracting. It sometimes feels as if the filmmakers rounded up everyone from the horror convention’s green room and decided to make a movie on the spot. This gives the film a disjointed feel, with certain scenes seeming more like favors than integral parts of the story.
Despite these drawbacks, Stream does have its moments of brilliance. The lighting and cinematography are spot-on, with spooky lighting that heightens the tension during key scenes. The film also benefits from some clever editing, with funny little details sprinkled throughout that will make repeat viewings enjoyable. However, not everything hits the mark—the masks worn by the killers, for instance, fall flat. They come across as a blend of Jeff the Killer and something out of The Purge but without the distinctiveness needed to make them truly memorable.
The involvement of horror icons like Danielle Harris and Tim Curry adds both excitement and some disappointment. Harris delivers a solid performance, though seeing her as a mother might be jarring for those who still associate her with her iconic role as Jamie Lloyd. Tim Curry’s involvement, while thrilling on paper, is marred by the fact that his limited screen time is being used more as a marketing gimmick than a genuine surprise for fans. It’s reminiscent of how big reveals in blockbuster trailers can sometimes take away from the impact of seeing them unfold on screen.
One of the film's strengths is how it keeps you intrigued with the unknown motives of the killers. From start to finish, you’re left wondering what drives them, and when the reveal finally comes, it’s satisfying enough to justify the buildup. Each subplot is given its due, allowing the characters to have their moments in the spotlight, which helps you care about their fates even as the body count rises.
While the film does borrow elements from other horror and thriller classics—think The Running Man meets Squid Game with a dash of Rob Zombie's 31—it manages to feel familiar yet fresh at the same time. There are even subtle nods to films like Scream and Jurassic Park that genre fans will appreciate. However, certain aspects, like eye-roll-inducing dialogue, can make Stream feel a bit like a step up from a film tucked within the Tubi catalog.
Despite its flaws, Stream is a film worth experiencing in a theater. The communal experience of watching it with a crowd adds to the enjoyment, as the laughter, gasps, and cheers from fellow viewers enhance the film’s impact. Also, if you prefer to avoid spoilers, catching it sooner rather than later is advisable.
In conclusion, Stream is an ambitious slasher that delivers plenty of gore and a few standout performances, particularly from Jeffrey Combs and Charles Edwin Powell. However, its overreliance on horror cameos and its bloated runtime may leave some viewers feeling that it’s more of a cash grab than a groundbreaking entry in the genre. While it might not produce a horror icon as enduring as Art the Clown, Stream is still an entertaining watch for fans of the genre—just be prepared for a few bumps along the way.
Jessie Hobson