Dir: Sean Byrne
Country: Aus
Year: 2009
Duration: 84mins
Print Source: pault@madman.com.au
www.madman.com.au
The importance of genre has been the hot topic in the Australian film industry over the past few years, and this feature is the perfect example of what can be produced by local talent. Starting out as a coming of age movie, there's a rapid gear change and something far nastier emerges in this blood splattered horror classic-to-be. Expect mirror disco balls, prom queens, dirty kitchens, nails and blood. To say any more would give too much away.
There's a real joy for gore and grossness here, a true celebration of the genre devoid of apology. Writer / director Sean Byrne knows his stuff and alongside the shocks there's a tight plot and tighter direction, which never lets up, as the film heads for its blood soaked climax.
The Loved Ones is a must see for fans of the genre.
Introduction and post screening Q&A with director Sean Byrne