Splinter Review

Splinter is a fantastic horror flick that should have gotten a huge release.  Lately studios have been giving good horror flicks the shaft, and putting all their faith in cookie cutter teen movies that happen to have a slasher killer in them (Prom Night).  I don’t know about you, but this reviewer is tired of seeing quality pictures get pushed out of the way by films that belong on Nickelodeon.  Splinter is such a film, a competently directed, original, creature feature that pulls no punches, and doesn’t belong on Nickelodeon.  

The plot is simple, a loving couple drive out into the countryside in order to pitch a tent an engage in a little anniversary sex, but their plans are thwarted by their lack of wilderness skills.  On their way to a hotel the loving couple are taken hostage by a wanted criminal and his strung out girlfriend.  On their way to the Mexican border the motley crew hit a freaky animal, causing them to blow a tire.  Shortly after fixing the flat they realize that they are loosing coolant and stop at an out of the way gas station.  Once there they are attacked by what seems to be a man with giant splinters growing out of him, and suddenly find themselves trapped inside this service station fighting for their lives.  I love this type of story!  Just a few characters that are instantly easy to relate to, a really cool monster, and a single setting that becomes an integral character itself.  

Director Toby Wilkins comes from a visual effects background and it definitely shows here.  The creature effects are nothing short of amazing, and the monster itself is pretty original (although it reminded me of The Thing a little).  The creature aside, Wilkins really knows how to build up suspense.  The man has skills and Splinter is a testament to those skills.  I’m going to be keeping my eye on Mr. Wilkins from here on out.  The actors were also of the highest caliber, especially Shea Whigham who plays Dennis  Farell, the criminal with a heart.  The performances in this movie were stellar, and the chemistry between the three leads was undeniable.  

If your a horror fan that is tired of what Hollywood has been shoving down your throat, then Splinter is for you.  This is a horror flick that doesn’t waste any time on subplots, and it doesn’t shy away from bringing the gore.  This is a phenomenal horror film that deserves to be seen by anyone calling themselves a horror fan.  Splinter is most definitely a killer film!

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