The Cabin in the Woods (2012)

Title: The Cabin in the Woods

Director: Drew Goddard

Starring: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth and Anna Hutchison

Writers: Joss (FUCKING) Whedon and Drew Goddard

Rated: R

Released: 2012

Personal Rating: 6/5

Oscars: N/A

Basic Plot: Five friends go for a break at a remote cabin in the woods, where they get more than they bargained for. Together, they must discover the truth behind the cabin in the woods.

Horror Comedy and Insight
Long and short of it is that this movie is self-aware. In many points of the movie there are little jokes that will have you laughing and then screaming. It isn't afraid to poke fun at the horror genre (like the classic 'group splits off and are easily picked off'). What's great about the movie's self-awareness is that it shows different viewpoints on horror movies. WHILE IT IS, ITSELF, A HORROR MOVIE! While you might think you'll have to think during this movie: be assured that it isn't hard to understand and the movie guides you along.

The Stoner Knows All
The Stoner (aka Marty/The Fool) is the first one to realize that something isn't right. He tries to warn people but they don't listen. He's like the stand-in for those in the audience that yell at the screen for the people not to do stupid things. He recommends not splitting up, not opening the door, and other things. It's sort of funny that someone stoned out of their mind can pick apart horror movie cliches. Does he die by the end of the movie? I'll just say his death isn't shown on screen.

The End "Battle Scene"
The end of the movie is a total gore fest. According to sources, a reaver (yes, the ones from Firefly!) appears briefly in the movie. Since I didn't know what they look like I'd need to see it again to confirm it. Anyways, the creatures that are released cause total hell. The hallway with the elevator will be burned into your mind long after you leave the theater. Also look out for a killer clown and unicorn.

Final Thoughts
This is a kickass movie. It scared me, made me think, and made me laugh. I loved it all! This movie more than lives up to its hype. In fact, it goes way over the hype. If you're looking for a new twist on the horror genre, this is the movie. I am a Joss Whedon fan (and shame on all those of you who don't know who Whedon is!) and that was part of the reason I wanted to see this. Finally, sorry random woman I talked to in the bathroom. Fangirls will be fangirls.