Consumed review: Devon Sawa’s strong central performance props up a weak narrative

As a horror enthusiast with a soft spot for movies that delve into the depths of human trauma and the supernatural, I found “Consumed” to be a unique blend of both worlds. The filmmakers’ decision to use Beth’s struggle with cancer as a metaphor for the monster she encounters was both intriguing and thought-provoking.

The Butcher Brothers’ newest horror flick, titled “Consumed“, unfolds a chilling tale. A pair embarks on a camping trip for a tranquil getaway in the forest, but their idyllic vacation turns into a nightmare when they stumble upon a horrifying beast and a man named Quinn (played by Devon Sawa), who seems intent on exacting vengeance.

Venturing into the ominous woods in a chilling flick is never a wise choice, and it seems this movie doesn’t offer anything groundbreaking to differentiate its core story from other films following a similar path. The heart of this production revolves around the strained relationship of Beth and Jay, portrayed by Courtney Halverson and Mark Famiglietti, who are grappling with the repercussions of Beth’s recent grueling fight against cancer. As one could anticipate, the movie Consumed delves into the concept of the monster symbolizing Beth’s emotional turmoil and agony.

Interestingly, the film excels when it centers around Quinn and Beth. At an early stage in the plot, Jay sustains an injury and becomes unavailable, forcing Beth and Quinn to team up against a chilling monster from legend that has a habit of snatching skin. I won’t reveal the nature of this creature or its ultimate fate, but I must admit I felt a tinge of disenchantment when they gave it a name because it seems quite repetitive compared to other portrayals.

I’ll acknowledge that the filmmakers skillfully combined real and digital effects, yet I wish they had opted for a purely practical approach. However, they cleverly kept the monster hidden most of the time, building tension effectively by maintaining an air of mystery about it.

In the novel “Consumed“, the realistic aspects are superbly done. There are a few instances of graphic violence that were quite shocking, and one particular scene involving the monster’s den and its grisly trophies was exceptionally grotesque and gruesome. I found myself yearning for even more of those unsettling elements.

For me, Sawa stood out in the movie due to his character’s unyielding pursuit of revenge for his slain loved one, a victim of the dangerous creature lurking in the forest. The film doesn’t break new ground, but its standout performances make it better than expected. Initially, it moves at a leisurely pace, but when it centers around Beth and Quinn as they track down the beast, it gains momentum and leads to a surprisingly impactful conclusion.

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2024-08-16 22:25