Released in 2010 and written/directed by Justin Head, "Night Drive" is a South African action/adventure with horror elements about an evening safari drive with a group of six tourists, two guides and the son of the head guide. They run afoul of violent poachers and their mad witchdoctor.
This is a stylish and violent flick with gore galore and a cool, unconventional opening. It eventually settles into a survival situation in the night wilderness. I don't know what the budget was, but the movie doesn't come across as low-budget; it's expertly made. Unfortunately, we don't really get to know the tourists, except for an unbelievably hostile dude, who's a turn-off. As such, it's hard to care about them and their outcome. The main protagonist is good (the son of the head guide), but the filmmakers drop the ball with the women. I suppose the white woman would've worked out, but they don't do enough with her. I did like the unexpected revelation about the witchdoctor at the end, but the second half should've been better considering the quality set-up. The script needed spruced-up to make the most of the situation, increase suspense, etc. Still, this is a very worthwhile jungle adventure with a side of horror.
The film runs 103 minutes and was shot Johannesburg and Broederstroom, North West, South Africa.
GRADE: Borderline B/B- (6.5/10)
