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In A Violent Nature: A Slasher Movie Told From The Killer’s Perspective

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In “In a Violent Nature,” although it may seem to adhere to a typical slasher film structure, it actually offers a fresh take on the horror genre by altering its narrative perspective. As the characters in the 1996 film “Scream” pointed out, horror movies often adhere to a fixed set of tropes. Specifically, slasher films are often portrayed as low-brow entertainment where young adults partying get picked off one by one by an indomitable masked killer who communicates sparingly but always finds creative and gruesome ways to end their lives. This description fits many of the “Friday the 13th” and “Halloween” series movies.

In a rustic, secluded forest backdrop, this storyline could easily be the basis for numerous films imitating popular franchises since the ‘80s. On the surface, the gruesome slasher film “In the Cruel Embrace of Nature” adheres to this formula perfectly. This Shudder production features a mute, undead murderer preying upon and creatively eliminating a group of teenagers in a remote forest, after their actions stirred his vengeful spirit by disturbing his prized locket. However, in actuality, “In the Cruel Embrace of Nature” bears little resemblance to classics such as “Madman”, “The Burning”, “Don’t Go in the Woods”, “Hatchet”, “Bloody Murder”, or “The Forest.

In A Violent Nature Is A Rare Horror Movie Told From The Killer’s Perspective

In A Violent Nature’s Slasher Story Subverts Horror Convention

Unlike the majority of slasher films out there, “In a Violent Nature” offers a unique twist by presenting the story from the killer’s viewpoint, not as a comedic spoof. Instead, “In a Violent Nature” unfolds at a relaxed pace, focusing on Johnny who rises from the ground, arms himself, and systematically eliminates a group of teens. For those curious about what the slasher does between his killings, “In a Violent Nature” offers an intriguing answer. The killer wanders through picturesque fields and dense forests, pausing occasionally to appreciate the scenery before moving on to his next victim. This unconventional approach turns out to be quite engaging.

Stephen King, a renowned literary figure, endorsed the slasher film “In a Violent Nature,” although it may not conventionally induce fear. The film lacks suspense because viewers always know where Johnny is located and soon understand that none of the teens are safe once he tracks them down. However, the movie’s premise remains unsettling as it portrays tranquil forests and picturesque woodlands in a chilling manner. Audience members cannot unwind and appreciate the film’s beautiful landscapes because they are consistently reminded of Johnny’s ominous presence lurking nearby.

The Killer’s Perspective Makes Johnny More Sympathetic

In A Violent Nature’s Johnny Is A Surprisingly Tragic Figure

Despite being a ruthless killer, Johnny’s brief backstory reveals an unexpectedly empathetic main character. Similar to the inspiration behind In a Violent Nature, the film portrays its antagonist as having an almost naive intelligence, evident in various scenes. A scene where Johnny briefly plays with toy cars serves as a startling contrast to his lack of mature behavior during his rampage, suggesting he might not fully comprehend the chaos he causes. This makes Johnny even more chilling because he’s motivated not by cruelty but by sorrow.

Johnny’s journey commences when one of the film’s unconventional characters swipes his mother’s locket, triggering a series of violent actions from the undead killer. This artifact holds sentimental value for him. Despite the movie In a Violent Nature not explicitly portraying Johnny in a sympathetic light, it is challenging not to empathize with him at certain points.

When audiences accompany a character throughout an entire film, it can be hard not to develop some emotional bond with them. So, it’s particularly unsettling that the gruesome death sequences in “In a Violent Nature” are especially brutal.

In A Violent Nature’s Kill Scenes Are Increasingly Brutal And Original

In A Violent Nature’s Deaths Prove The Movie Is Still A Savage Slasher

In the grisly realm of slasher films, “In a Violent Nature” showcases some genuinely chilling death sequences. This is due to two factors that stem from the film’s distinctive narrative approach. Firstly, to avoid criticism by seasoned horror enthusiasts who might argue that a meditative, experimental movie isn’t authentic if it doesn’t live up to its title, “In a Violent Nature” needed to deliver on its violent nature promise. Secondly, given the unique style of the slasher film reminiscent of Terrence Malick and Gus Van Sant, the script called for graphic death scenes to make this concept work effectively.

In addition, the unconventional approach of In a Violent Nature amplifies its killing scenes. Unlike most slasher movies, which are often laden with character drama, humor, and other diversions, this film removes all unnecessary elements. This contrast between prolonged quiet moments and abrupt bursts of gruesome violence makes In a Violent Nature even more effective as a slasher movie, although it breaks away from the usual tradition.

Other Horror Movies Told From The Killer’s Perspective

In A Violent Nature Is Not The Only More To Put The Killer At The Forefront

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In a different approach to the horror genre, “In a Violently Natural World” delves into familiar territory by exploring the mind of the killer, a common theme in many such films. This perspective allows viewers an unsettling glimpse into the twisted thoughts and grotesque actions of these characters. Films like “American Psycho,” “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer,” and “The House That Jack Built” fall under this category. However, what sets “In a Violently Natural World” apart is that it features killers rooted in the realm of mythology and folklore, unlike its counterparts which are based on real-world killers.

One intriguing film that explores the killer’s viewpoint within the slasher genre from an unconventional angle is “Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon.” This movie is unique as it presents itself as a mockumentary horror, set in a universe where characters like Jason Voorhees and Freddy Krueger are real. The narrative revolves around a documentary crew chronicling an ambitious aspiring killer who aims to join the ranks of the legendary slashers. Despite its comedic tone, Leslie Vernon turns out to be a more menacing character than anticipated.

Although many horror films in the past have adopted the perspective of the killer, In a Violent Nature distinguishes itself as a one-of-a-kind genre piece by casting Johnny as the traditional supernatural, silent slasher. This daring move places him at the heart of the story, inviting viewers to join him on his brutal, unforgettable journey and question their own tolerance for such violence.

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2025-04-22 16:08

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