The Hamiltons was an interesting little horror film . . .
It had the feel for me of one of the Masters of Horror episodes. The production values for the film seemed high, but the acting was just a bit south of sub-par. The acting in the Masters of Horror Episodes were definitely better - by a mile at least. Although I have to say that Cory Knauf as Francis gave an almost believable performance of a kid just looking to find out where he fit in the world as a whole as well as in his own family dynamic.
So basically this is a film about a family (The Hamiltons) who have lost their parents and are now forced to fend for themselves in this cruel, cruel world. But the Hamiltons - consisting of oldest brother David (Samuel Child), the twins Wendell (Joseph Mckelheer) and Darlene (Mackenzie Firgens - who really reminded me of Rose McGowan), Francis and little Lenny - are not your typical family. They have a secret that needs guarding and requires frequent relocation. But don't think you have their secret figured out right away. They throw up a couple of diversions to what they really are during the film.
I enjoyed the fact that although there is a lot of death and gore going on in the film, when you look into the Hamiltons' home it is completely spotless and bright white. Everything has a place and everything is in its place. It is like a constant contrast to what is going on just beneath the surface and a reminder to all that things are not always what they seem.
I also quite liked the dynamic between Wendell and Darlene as twins connected in more ways than one. Their cat and mouse scene with Kitty (Jena Hunt), Darlene's unfortunate new playmate, was especially entertaining. I found it interesting as well that they portrayed brother David as they stereotypical crisp, clean repressed closet homosexual. Reminded me a bit of another stereotypical crisp, clean repressed closet homosexual named David - think Six Feet Under.
At any rate I would definitely recommend catching
The Hamiltons. I can't wait to see the other 8 Films to Die for from the After Dark Horrorfest. If this is any indication, I think I might be in for 7 more horror filled treats.
The Hamiltons Movie Cast and Credits
Directed by
The Butcher Brothers
Writing credits
The Butcher Brothers
Adam Weis
Cast (in credits order)
Cory Knauf ... Francis Hamilton
Samuel Child ... David Hamilton
Joseph McKelheer ... Wendell Hamilton
Mackenzie Firgens ... Darlene Hamilton
Rebekah Hoyle ... Samantha Teal
Brittany Daniel ... Dani Cummings
Al Liner ... Paul
Jena Hunt ... Kitty
Tara Glass ... Jenna Smith
rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Jaclyn Chessen ... New Neighbor
Corky Cornett ... Frank
Joe Egender ... Allen Davies
Jackie Honea ... Mother
John Krause ... Father
Larry Laverty ... Larry Davies
More The Hamiltons Movie Reviews
Review of The Hamiltons at Bloody DisgustingThe Hamiltons Movie Review and Information Page at The Internet Movie Database
