Creeping Death, the SCREAMBOX Exclusive supernatural slasher, promises a night of Halloween horror with a unique twist on Celtic mythology. Directed by Matt Sampere, who also stars in the film, Creeping Death is a project clearly born out of a deep love for the Halloween season and the slasher genre. While the film might not reach the heights of other fright night staples like Trick 'r Treat, it still offers enough to make it worth a watch, especially during the spooky season.
The film follows Tim, whose once-favorite holiday of Halloween has become a painful reminder of his mother’s battle with cancer. Hoping for a quiet night, Tim’s plans are upended when his friends steal a mysterious sack, unleashing the Aos Si, a vengeful Celtic spirit. What follows is a battle for survival that’s filled with creative kills and a palpable atmosphere of dread.
Where Creeping Death shines is in its practical effects and its commitment to Halloween lore. The kills, though few, are inventive and well-executed, providing the kind of visceral thrills horror fans crave. Hunter Kohl, in particular, stands out as Nate, the prick of the friend group, delivering a performance that brings a necessary edge to the proceedings. His portrayal is one of the film’s highlights, as he fully embodies his role, adding a layer of tension and unpredictability to the group dynamic.
However, the film does struggle with pacing issues, especially in its first half. The promising start quickly gives way to a slower, more meandering pace that saps some of the initial excitement. The subplot involving Tim’s mother’s cancer feels out of place in what is otherwise a straightforward slasher, and it adds a heaviness that doesn’t quite mesh with the rest of the film’s tone.
Sampere’s double duty as both director and lead actor might have been a bit too ambitious, as the film occasionally suffers from awkward dialogue and scenes that drag on longer than necessary. Additionally, the cinematography is inconsistent, with some scenes being so dark that it’s hard to appreciate the practical effects at play. The shaky cam technique, while likely intended to heighten the sense of chaos and fear, ends up being more distracting than effective.
Despite its flaws, Creeping Death is a film with heart, and it’s clear that the cast and crew had a lot of fun bringing this story to life. The soundtrack, filled with “sounds like” songs that perfectly capture the Halloween spirit, adds to the film’s atmosphere, making it an enjoyable experience for fans of the genre.
While it might not become a staple in your Halloween movie rotation, Creeping Death is still worth a watch for those looking to explore new horror films that celebrate the darker side of the holiday. There’s a lot of potential in Sampere’s concept, and with a bit more polish, it could have been something truly special. As it stands, it’s a fun, if somewhat flawed, love letter to Halloween and the slasher genre.
Jessie Hobson