‘The Loved Ones’ is Ridiculously Enthralling (Review)

Written by: Matt Molgaard

Directed by: Sean Byrne

Cast: Xavier Samuel, Robin McLeavy, Victoria Thaine

In case you haven’t picked up on it yet, I’m one of those guys who love to seek out the highly touted films assembled on thin budgets. There’s just nothing quite like an ultra-ambitious flick that proves exponentially more entertaining than the big blockbusters we see hit 3,000 screens. Let me tell you something, Sean Byrne’s gruesome tale, The Loved Ones isn’t just another stellar picture put together on a very modest budget, it’s a film that stands far superior to the vast majority of genre efforts we see hit theaters in wide release.

The story truly boils down to sheer lunacy, focusing on a psychotic young lady who takes jealousy to brand new heights… or perhaps lows, if you prefer. Lola likes boys, but worse, she likes to play with boys in horrific, disturbing fashion. Torture is her clear forte, and she’s working consistently to refine her abilities. Scary thought, especially for Brent, as he’s the new flavor of the week who, after declining to attend a dance with Lola, unwittingly seals his own harsh fate. With the assistance of her remarkably creepy father, Brent’s kidnapped and trapped in Lola’s own fantasy dance. However there won’t be much grinding of hips at this shindig, just buckets of blood, and a nifty little drill.

The Loved Ones is a superb little flick that packs the kind of punch to drive strong American box office sales. Too bad it never had the chance to impress on the big screen. While the concept isn’t completely innovative, there’s a wealth of care that went into the production, which makes it feel strangely special. Xavier Samuel and Robin McLeavy turn in riveting performances and Sean Byrne’s directing and screenwriting are both airtight. This is just an insanely polished piece of film that needs to be seen by the masses. The Loved Ones is ridiculously enthralling, plain and simple. So stop reading this damn review, and go hunt the movie down!

Rating: 4/5