The Camp Host

I'm not entirely sure what this was meant to be. Was it Horror/Thriller? Or was it a Horror/Comedy?

It ended up being nothing, really.

The poster itself tells us far too much by itself. We know exactly who the protagonist is and who the antagonist is, so there's absolutely no level of suspense or intrigue before we even watch the film.

Onto the actual film, and it's just not that good, and it's full of that overly annoying trope of 'stupid people doing stupid things'. It could've been an average film, had the part the characters were to play in this not been signposted before we watch the film.

It was just all too obvious how this was going to play out, though they attempted a twist ending, presumably with the hope of setting up a needless sequel. They need to leave this alone.

I watch a lot of b- horror (especially on Tubi), this one is a step above normal. The 2 leads do a great job as a real couple and the bad person is very convincing as a psychopath. The premise used the quintessential campground, but uses it in a newer way. The cinematography is superb for this type of film and there are limited night scenes (which I can't stand). The semi-yuppie couple argue like one would expect. The kills aren't too gory, but they are creative. Again, this is a very unique Mar Vista film that I did not anticipate as being this good. The female lead is a perfect fit for this role.

Plot: When a young couple and their dog lodge at an "idyllic" campground, things turn terrifying when the owner reveals herself as a psychopathic killer.

So the plot is pretty Okay for a horror movie, but man oh man is this poorly done. Plus, the main lead stinks. Why didn't they cast the cute chick from the beginning of the movie who had a way better body and was way more interesting to look at for 90 minutes? I'm still thinking about her.

The lead they chose is annoying, as other reviewers said. She has no future in movies. And she kisses with her mouth closed like she never kissed before.

On its surface The Camp Host is a love letter to a genre that has become over saturated with cliches and trusted imitations.

Subtle nods to horror trailblazers are not obvious but are there for the true fan to smile at.

What's most impressive is the reassurance of what can be achieved on a small budget in the hands of a talented director who knows and loves their craft.

Without the aid of expensive cgi McComas achieves what most modern horror films fail at, creating an atmospheric environment that feels fraught with danger. Just like early Carpenter and Hooper he is able to present a threat that is grounded in reality but elevated to the extreme.

This isn't the full picture though, once all the blood, gore and, yes, feces has run off into the woods the question of 'What is wrong with the world?' lingers.

Not why are there crazy serial killers in the woods but why are we all so sure that our world view is right?

How can we be so unwieldy in our beliefs even in the presence of those with more reason and experience to comment?

In summary The Camp Host is a skillfully made modern slasher with a retro vibe in the truest form that takes a subtle dig at modern mainstream cultural values.

This movie is a cinematic gem. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of a remote campground, the film follows the journey of a reclusive camp host, brilliantly portrayed by Brook Johnson. The casting choices fit perfectly in the story. McComas's masterful storytelling unfolds with precision, inviting viewers into a world where quiet moments speak volumes and human connections are forged in the most unexpected places.

With stunning cinematography capturing the serene beauty of the wilderness, coupled with a hauntingly beautiful score that echoes the protagonist's emotional journey, "The Camp Host" transcends the boundaries of traditional cinema. McComas deftly explores the complexities of the human spirit, offering a poignant reminder of the transformative power of forgiveness and the importance of finding solace in the natural world.