Artik: A vicious serial killer thriller as mean as they come
By Mads Lennon
One thing is for certain, DREAD’s new film has a pointed mean streak. You may not be prepared for Artik, which is why you should watch it.
When watching Artik, the only word I could think of to succinctly describe the movie was “brutal.” I think that sums up the visceral carnage you’ll witness in this serial killer thriller.
From the opening shots showing the sinister way our title character and murderer disposes of his body to the ominous, Midsommar-esque credit sequence, you will be immersed in the gritty bleakness of the world created by Tom Botchii.
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The film is about a serial killer obsessed with comic books. But don’t anticipate seeing anyone nerdy or reading Marvel comics in public. Instead, Artik (Jerry G Angelo) plays the part with utmost sincerity and cold indifference.
Moments where Artik shows true passion are in the way he designs his kill-traps and brutalizes each of his victims in the final moments of life. As if Artik’s creep factor wasn’t bad enough, he intends to pass on his legacy to his young son.
But when his son becomes entangled with a mysterious stranger that has good intentions for him, a dangerous cat-and-mouse game ensues between Artik and the newcomer. You’ve never seen a serial killer on-screen depicted quite like this. Angelo’s steely gaze and intensity will haunt you long after the credits roll.
I found the ending sequence of events some of the film’s most stunning. What’s excellent about Artik is the entire film is fast-paced, lean, and the aforementioned cruel streak weaves through like a snake in the grass. I felt unnerved and uncomfortable the whole time I watched, as if I, too, had become one of the many hunted.
From the jarring scenes of a child smashing his head repeatedly to kill a beetle to the downright horrifying final moments, you won’t be able to turn away, and you might hate yourself a little bit for it afterward. The film has a mean streak a mile-long, gorehounds should delight in it. But there is a deeper meaning simmering beneath the surface too.
If you’re intrigued by the concept of the film, I recommend you check it out on Blu-ray too. You’ll be privy to some excellent special features such as a director’s commentary track and multiple behind the scenes featurettes. The Blu-ray also included two short films, both with additional commentary.
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Are you planning to watch Artik when it becomes available? Do you enjoy movies about serial killers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Artik will be available on VOD and Blu-ray beginning on September 10th.