To believe the controversy last year, The Hunt was going to be the most vile film ever to be releases. Of course, those railing against it hadn’t seen it, and arguably hadn’t even seen the previews. However, I have seen the movie, and can tell you that, unsurprisingly, the conservative pundits had it all wrong. No, this is not just 90 minutes of liberals killing “deplorables.” In actuality, this leans into satire, parodying the most liberal and “woke” of individuals. Yes, the bones of what you’ve heard about are there, but this goes in a way different direction than you’d expect. In fact, it’s better for it, emerging as a shockingly good time from Jason Blum, Blumhouse, and the mind of Damon Lindelof (among others). The film imagines a rumored scandal called Manorgate, where wealthy elites bring salt of the earth folk to hunt for sport. When a dozen individuals wake up in a secluded area and begin getting picked off, they know that this is no longer just a rumor. However, they’re ill equipped, save for a surprisingly tough woman named Crystal (Betty Gilpin). She proves rather impossible to handle, quickly turning the odds and seeking to figure out who is running the show, why they’re doing this, and what can be done to stop it. As she fights for survival, she draws closer to the mysterious Athena (Hilary Swank), ultimately setting up a confrontation that mixes opposing viewpoints with some brutal violence. Craig Zobel directs a script penned by Nick Cuse and Damon Lindelof. Cinematography is by Darran Tiernan, while Nathan Barr composed the score. Rounding out the cast are Ike Barinholtz, Reed Birney, Macon Blair, Wayne Duvall, Glenn Howerton, Amy Madigan, Emma Roberts, Sturgill Simpson, Ethan Suplee, Teri Wyble, and more. There’s a devilish sense of humor on display here. Far more a satire than an action/horror/thriller, the creative forces here seek to skewer “woke” PC culture. The satirical elements are broadly done, but work, and oddly mix together well with a gory fight for survival. Neither aspect on their own would make for a fully satisfying flick, but the mixture winds up being very pleasing. You have to have the stomach and the personality for this sort of a thing, but much like Ready or Not last year, it’s here to tickle your particular fancy, if applicable. Cute, Lindelof, Zobel, and company are having a blast […]