Movie Review: The Gallows (2015)
Synopsis:
"The Gallows," directed by Chris Lofing and Travis Cluff, is a found-footage horror film that takes place 20 years after a tragic accident takes the life of a young actor during a high school play called “The Gallows.” The narrative unfolds as a group of students, eager to revive the ill-fated production, break into their high school at night. Starring Reese Houser (played by a cast of characters), Ryan Shoos, Cassidy Spilker, and others, the film weaves together classic horror thematic elements with the self-awareness often characteristic of the genre’s modern iterations.
As the crew prepares in the empty and foreboding halls of their school, strange occurrences begin to unfold. What initially seems like a fun, albeit risky, adventure spirals into a terrifying ordeal. The haunting legacy of the original tragedy resurfaces, intertwining with the group’s own experiences, leading to a psychological and supernatural confrontation with the past. Tension mounts as they confront not only their fear of the dark but also the ghosts—literal and metaphorical—of their predecessors.
The film capitalises on its setting, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that envelops the viewer, allowing us to experience the fear and dread the characters endure as they grapple with both external and internal demons.
Cast of Characters:
- Reese Houser: Ryan Shoos
- Cassidy Spilker: Cassidy
- Ryan Shoos: Ryan
- Peyton Anderson: Pfeifer
- Rufus Hound: Mr. Schwenck
- Morgan Gunter: Charlie
Analysis of the Film:
The Gallows employs the found-footage style effectively, a technique often met with mixed reactions from audiences. A genre that arguably reached its peak with films like "The Blair Witch Project" and "Paranormal Activity," the found-footage format has birthed both iconic entries and forgettable duds. "The Gallows" finds itself somewhere in the middle; it tries to strike a balance between innovative storytelling and the well-trodden paths of standard horror setups.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its commitment to horror cliché and character archetypes. The character profiles, although familiar, are compelling enough to invoke a degree of empathy. Each character embodies a classic trope: the sceptic (Ryan), the believer (Pfeifer), the overconfident jock (Reese), and the quiet observer (Cassidy). Their dynamics push the narrative forward while also providing the viewer with expected scares and tension-building dialogues. However, this reliance on archetypes means that character development is quite limited; viewers may find it difficult to form deep attachments or feel a significant connection to their fates.
The film’s pacing is intentional but somewhat meandering. It takes time to build tension, which is certainly part of the horror formula. There are moments where it feels like the plot is dragging on, particularly in the middle sections where the characters explore the abandoned school—this may test the patience of some viewers. However, this allows the audience to become comfortable and thus more profoundly affected when the horror elements finally strike. The gradual escalation of tension culminates in a series of jump scares that are both effective and predictable, positioning “The Gallows” firmly within the realms of standard horror fare.
Cinematographically, "The Gallows" boasts a raw aesthetic; the handheld camera style assists in eliciting a visceral realism that heightens the sense of dread. The dimly lit hallways of the school pulsate with an eerie emptiness, contributing significantly to the film’s atmosphere. The use of audio is particularly noteworthy, with ominous sound design amplifying moments of silence to create an underlying disquiet that unsettles viewers.
Another aspect that deserves attention is the film’s characterisation of fear, particularly through the theme of legacy—the burden of past mistakes and tragedies. The characters are not merely being chased by a vengeful spirit; they are also forced to confront their own fears and the implications of their actions, be it their choices in high school or their attitudes towards the earlier tragedy. This deeper thematic exploration adds a layer of complexity to the horror, elevating it above some of its contemporaries.
However, despite its intriguing premise and effective jump scares, "The Gallows" suffers from predictability. Anyone familiar with the found-footage genre will find themselves anticipating plot twists and scares. While jump scares can be effective, they also risk becoming tedious if overused. The film has moments that induce genuine fear, but many sequences are built upon formulaic setups that seasoned horror fans may find contrived.
Moreover, character motivations sometimes lack depth, leaving a sense of disconnection from the characters’ plight. As they face escalating supernatural occurrences, their reactions can appear somewhat superficial. This emotional distance can dilute the film’s impact, leading to a dramatic conclusion that’s thrilling but predefined.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "The Gallows" offers viewers a journey through typical horror tropes wrapped within a found-footage style. It manages to weave suspense and some genuinely terrifying moments while exploring themes related to legacy and fear. While it may not break new ground in terms of originality or character development, it successfully contributes to the horror genre with its dark atmosphere and occasional effective scares.
Ultimately, "The Gallows" sits comfortably within the segment of horror films that entertain rather than innovate, making it a worthwhile watch for genre enthusiasts. However, those looking for profound storytelling or complex character arcs may find it lacking.
Score: 6/10
"The Gallows" is a somewhat standard horror experience that entertains but ultimately falls prey to its own formulaic tendencies, landing it firmly in the ‘watchable’ zone rather than the ‘unmissable.’ It rings true for fun Friday night viewing but doesn’t quite stake a claim as a classic in the genre.
