The Blackening (2023)

Tagline: We can't all die first.

Synopsis
A group of Black friends reunite for a Juneteenth weekend getaway only to find themselves trapped in a remote cabin with a twisted killer.

Writer
Tracy Oliver,
Dewayne Perkins

Screenplay
Tracy Oliver,
Dewayne Perkins

Producer
Sharla Sumpter Bridgett,
Marcei A. Brown,
Jason Clark,
E. Brian Dobbins,
Tracy Oliver,
Tim Story

Tim Story’s horror spoof “The Blackening” is unique. This sophisticated satire from Tracy Oliver and Dewayne Perkins is full of relevant social criticism regarding stereotypes and “blackness,” giving it a fresh and surprising twist. It’s smart, unpleasant, and fun.

Perkins, Antoinette Robertson, Grace Byers, X Mayo, Jermaine Fowler, Yvonne Orji, Jay Pharoah, Melvin Gregg, and Sinqua Walls arrange a Juneteenth reunion at a lonely cabin in the woods, but there’s a threat. They find that a masked killer is stalking them and aims to kill them all, starting with the “blackest.” The killer plays a racist board game that evaluates their “blackness” with racially-specific questions. The group’s friendships are tested as they strive to survive the night.

The almost all-black cast makes the movie’s creative premise work. Nicely cast, the actors have great comedic timing. One of the more serious horror films in years, this has significant character development.

The atmosphere is a blend of “Scary Movie” and “Get Out,” but in a unique way. The intelligent script makes up for its lack of scariness and humor. Story doesn’t completely balance the two genres, but it’s still enjoyable. The film “The Blackening” shocks spectators and sparks serious discussions. Its delightful ride is even greater.

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