Butchers (2020): A Classic Horror That Makes You Hide Under the Blanket

If you miss the slasher horror style of the 70s-80s, raw, savage, and unapologetically gory, Butchers (2020) is the answer you're looking for. This film takes us back to the atmosphere of a family of psychopathic killers hiding deep in the woods, with victims who accidentally wander in. Though not a perfect work, it has a classic charm that genre fans will love.

Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

The story of Butchers begins when a group of two female friends and their boyfriends decide to travel to a remote rural area. But they encounter the family of Owen Watson and Oswald Watson, two brutal brothers running a small butcher shop in the middle of the woods. What starts as a small request for help turns into a nightmare when they realize this family sells not just regular meat, but also human flesh. The film unfolds slowly, gradually building an uneasy atmosphere before exploding into gory scenes that will make horror fans jump every time.

Acting and Characters

The highlight of Butchers is the performance of Simon Phillips and Michael Swatton as the brutal brothers, conveying madness in a terrifying yet slightly pitiful way that gives the characters depth. On the victim side, Julie Mainville as Jenna does well as a girl struggling to survive, though the role lacks depth, it still makes the audience root for her. Other characters may seem bland, but it doesn't detract much from the experience.

Direction, Cinematography, and Music

Adrian Langley, director and screenwriter, chooses a classic storytelling style, focusing on building atmosphere and tension before unleashing the gore. The cinematography beautifully captures the desolation of the Canadian wilderness, but also hides creepiness in every corner. The music is simple but effectively enhances the film's mood, though not as outstanding as the visuals, it doesn't clash with the narrative.

Editorial Analysis

Butchers may not be a groundbreaking horror film with a complex plot, but what it does well is respect the original slasher genre. The film doesn't try to be overly clever or twisty, but focuses on the brutality and rawness of the villains, making the audience feel real danger. However, the slow pacing in the first half might bore those unfamiliar with this style. But if you like films like Texas Chainsaw Massacre or The Hills Have Eyes, Butchers will likely appeal to you, more or less.

Verdict

Butchers is a horror film suitable for fans of classic slashers who miss the raw, savage, and unadulterated brutality. If you like films like Texas Chainsaw Massacre and don't mind the slow pacing in the first half, you'll enjoy this movie. But if you expect a complex plot or twists, you may be disappointed.