In the latest installment of the V/H/S series, V/H/S/Mixtape review reveals a horror anthology that delivers a mixed bag of gory, music-themed mini-movies. Hosted by the infamous metal band Gwar, this collection of five shorts ranges from stop-motion terror to puppet revenge, all tied together by the thinnest of connective tissue. As with previous entries, the quality varies, but there's plenty here for genre fans to sink their teeth into.
A Gory Medley of Music and Mayhem
The theme this time is music and sound, which makes the hosting duties of Gwar somewhat fitting. The band members, in their extravagant outfits, crack Halloween dad jokes between segments, adding a playful tone to the carnage. The five mini-movies differ significantly in length and quality, ensuring that viewers are constantly kept on their toes.
Standout Shorts: Puppets and Stop-Motion
Renee Zhan's Dance, Dance, Dance, Dance opens the anthology with a tale of murderous puppets taking revenge on studio execs who dare to reimagine their ageing IP. Designed by Jim Henson's Creature Shop, the puppets are both creepy and comical, and their bright major-scale song about how all things must die is a highlight. Flying Lotus's stop-motion exercise Another Cabin follows a young boy living with a mean old grannie and a tentacled demon, offering a brief but effective jolt.
Ernest Dickerson and Other Contributors
Venerable cinematographer turned director Ernest Dickerson (known for his work on Spike Lee films) contributes a segment that brings a different flavor to the mix. Other directors include Chloe Okuno and Simon Barrett, each bringing their unique vision to the table. While not every short hits the mark, the diversity ensures that there's something for everyone.
V/H/S/Mixtape vs. Previous Installments
How does this entry stack up against its predecessors? Here's a quick comparison:
| Film | Theme | Standout Short | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| V/H/S (2012) | Found footage | Amateur Night | 7/10 |
| V/H/S/2 (2013) | Found footage | Safe Haven | 7.5/10 |
| V/H/S: Viral (2014) | Found footage | Parallel Monsters | 5/10 |
| V/H/S/94 (2021) | Found footage | The Subject | 7/10 |
| V/H/S/Mixtape (2023) | Music | Dance, Dance, Dance, Dance | 6.5/10 |
Key Takeaways from V/H/S/Mixtape
- Diverse shorts: The anthology offers a range of horror styles, from stop-motion to puppet carnage.
- Gwar's hosting: The band's goofy interludes add a unique, if uneven, flavor.
- Standout segments: Renee Zhan's puppet revenge and Flying Lotus's stop-motion are highlights.
- Mixed quality: Not every short lands, but the variety keeps things engaging.
- Music theme: The sonic focus ties the segments together, albeit loosely.
FAQ
What is V/H/S/Mixtape about?
V/H/S/Mixtape is a horror anthology featuring five short films tied together by a music theme and hosted by the band Gwar. Each segment explores different horror subgenres, from murderous puppets to stop-motion demons.
Who are the directors in V/H/S/Mixtape?
The anthology includes segments directed by Flying Lotus, Renee Zhan, Ernest Dickerson, Chloe Okuno, and Simon Barrett, among others.
Is V/H/S/Mixtape worth watching?
If you're a fan of the V/H/S series or enjoy horror anthologies with a mix of gore and dark humor, V/H/S/Mixtape is worth a watch. However, be prepared for uneven quality across the segments.
Ultimately, V/H/S/Mixtape review concludes that while it may not reach the heights of some earlier entries, it's a fun, gory ride with enough inventive moments to satisfy horror hounds. The murderous puppets alone make it a memorable addition to the franchise.