Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer (V)
| release date | October 7 2008 |
| studio | Anchor Bay |
| director | Jon Knautz |
| writer | Jon Knautz, John Ainslie,Trevor Matthews, Patrick |
| starring | Trevor Matthews, Robert Englund, Rachel Skarsten, James A. Woods, Daniel Kash, Ashley Bryant |
| site | brookstreetpictures.com/jackbrooks |
| trailer 1 | Trailer #1 |
2 Comments
Jack Brooks was good with gore, blood, killings and monsters. This is alot better than alot of the movies that have been coming out. This is what we needed a good American made Classic. Bring on the sequels.
monster
Very cool movie that was worth the money to buy. I liked how they made it funny and all the different monsters that were in it. I just hope that they decide to make a sequel to this movie becuase I think it would be very kickass.
Yes
Hell yeah! this movie was totally badass. I havent seen Englund this good in years. a good homage to the 80s horror.
this was one of the most fun films I have seen in a while! Along the likes of EVIL DEAD!
this was one of the most fun films I have seen in a while! Along the likes of EVIL DEAD!
Real fun movie here, definatly exceeded my already high expectations, brings back the “magic trick” special effects without needing crappy ass cgi, a fun film, one of the funnest adventure/horror/comedies since army of darkness!
This movie was awesome!! The choice of the song that was used to turn Jack around in the movie was great. I seen it coming but it was still awesome. The creatures and effects were great. I still love seeing Robert Englund do things other than Freddy. He is a great actor. Very very funny, just like Trevor and everyone else in the movie. This is one of the best movies of the year in my opinion, I’m happy to see all of the positive reviews that this movie is getting. I’m already looking forward to watching this again on Hallowen night!!
I got the same feeling of excitement that I felt the first time I watched the early horror movies of Peter Jackson. Absolutely fun all the way through
This movie was just plain great. It brought back cheesy independant 70′s and 80′s horror back. Well maybe not chessy. The music, acting, cinemetography, and story line were all great. Robert Englund had a great role in this film, which was freakin’ sweet. Adding Sir Englund to the cast was a very good idea. I absolutely loved this film.
This movie was very well made and I was very surprised. However, I wish it was longer!! It seemed as soon as the action started, the movie was over. Hopefully they’ll make more! Great fun!
Not a bad movie by any stretch of the imagination and the non-use of CGI should be praised… but I just wanted MORE out of this movie.
I wanted more humor, more gore and definitely more monsters. I felt it took a little too long for the fun stuff to finally kick and when it did it was over way too quick. I was expecting Jack to be kicking monster ass throughout the film, of course that wasn’t the case.
Like I said though, this isn’t a bad movie at all. It is a fun ride and I’m sure just about everyone will find enjoyment out of it, just don’t set your hopes too high like I did.
the best and most funny horror moive i have seen in while
Pros:
*Yes, you haven’t seen this much Horrific non-CGI latex since Full Moon went out of business.
*Robert Englund still has the chops, too bad it wasn’t used to the hilt here.
*If you are dying for an actor that sorta looks like and sounds EXACTLY like a more irritating Mark Wahlberg, I’d like to introduce you to Mr. Brooks.
Cons:
*Brooks the character is just not likeable. Makes Jack Black look like Jack Nicholson.
*Some of the practical effects look like the 80′s….in the sense of those 80′s Horror films you passed by to rent The Evil Dead, Freddy, Jason, and/or any other Horror film worth a damn at the time.
*I sat through a whiny, short fuse of a kid for a whole hour for just fifteen minutes of this lame excuse of a Horror climax?
Lately it seems Horror has gone nostalgic. Not in just the sense that every classic film of the genre has been through the “remake treatment” as of late, but new filmmakers brought up on those original classics wish it still was 1985 and make a movie today just like they did. Such is the case of Jack Brooks:Monster Slayer. But even though with the classic approach of a world where CGI didn’t exist and rubber latex ruled, they may have forgotten that a good story to begin with should be the first thing in place.
Jack Brooks is a twenty-something whose life pretty much stinks. A plumber by day and a night-school student at night, he’s a young man who has a serious attitude problem in the sense that he’s full of rage and can’t seem to understand why. Maybe it might have to do with the fact his family was killed by a forest troll(?) and no one believed him at the time. Or could it be he has a girlfriend who’s always on his back. Whatever the case, life’s not too good. One evening after class his professor (mercifully played by Robert Englund) asks him to come to his new, yet rumored cursed, home and look at his pipes (the house’s that is). After a pipe blows in the backyard, a strange gas and crate are discovered after Jack’s departure and the ole Professor starts to turn slowly into something not of this Earth. When picking up a plumbing part, Jack gets a full history lesson of the house from a former resident, gets back to school, and all Hell breaks loose.
Well, as much Hell as this story could allow. As a huge fan of what I consider the modern-day classic era of Horror, the 1980′s, I can see that the writer/star & director of this film were as well. But what their film provided sort of reminded me of those “made eventually for cable Horror” like the works released by Full Moon Entertainment between 1989 thru 1992. While these films had decent practical special-effects, each one had a storyline that would be forgotten once your finger pressed eject on the old VCR. Much the same for JB:MS. The plotline that Jack is a passive-aggressive weighed down the whole film for me in the sense that it wasn’t used well or was ever really needed. In fact, Jack really isn’t even a likeable guy, bordering on just plain irritating. You won’t love to hate him, you just won’t care for him in general. And that’s pretty much what we get for the first full hour of the film. Those who think they’re getting a modern-day Evil Dead of a thrill-ride with this better take a nap first before watching. As for Englund’s slow transformation, it does have a slight humor and disgust but not enough to really count on either to save the film. And when the baddies start coming, Jack still provides as much entertainment as the backgrounds behind him, he’s there, he’s doing stuff, but it’s bland and unsatifying at this point.
But what really got me was a film that was as lackluster as this got an amazing amount of love through a ton of special features. It might be hard to believe, but not only does it have the typical commentary and trailers, but over TWO HOURS of documentaries, deleted scenes, and other featurettes that explain the film in great detail. In fact, I enjoyed these more than the movie itself! Hard to believe this was all packed on just one disc that had a nice video/audio presentation. But when you get down to it, Jack Brooks:Monster Slayer is forgettable. While trying to hark back to the 80′s with it’s latex effects and huge props, it’s story, supporting cast, and lead actor all fail to deliver an engaging film. This is not your Evil Dead twenty-somethings, and if it is, you guys need to rent/buy 2006′s Hatchet. Now there’s a film that looked at the Horror of the 80′s and said “Thank You” without chopping up it’s legacy.
SSSOOOO..I wasnt real impressed with this movie. I didnt dislike it or anything, just not real impressed
First five minutes am thinking great back to using the old special effects prosthectics. Half an hour later am thinking shall i go to bed now or turn it off and watch cable. sorry but a NO NO for me.
I’m a huge fan of brutal horror, so I always go into these horror-comedies with a lot of apprehension. That being said, there have been quite a few I’ve enjoyed: The Evil Dead Series, the original April Fool’s Day, Feast 1 & 2, Dead Alive and Hatchet to name a few. Jack Brooks, Monster Slayer could have easily been added to that list but just doesn’t quite make it. My biggest complaint is that barely anything happens for the first 50 minutes of film. I know they are trying to establish a character here, but at the end of the 50 minutes I knew as much about Jack as I did in the first ten minutes; Plumber, anger problem, dead family, anger problem again. So what was the point? My other complaint is a bit bittersweet. While I give kudos to the film makers for using practical effects, practical effects themselves just don’t cut it. To make practical effects cool, you need some kickass designs. The monsters in this (with the exception of the zombies) were just lame and too comical looking. When Englund’s character transforms into the blob-like creature all I could think about was the creature from Weird Science. The cyclops in the beginning? So cheese. I know it I have only two gripes, but they’re kind of biggies. A monster movie with shitty monsters and a story that is 2/3rd’s pointless.
The funny thing is, if they made a sequel I’d watch it. I liked the concept and think it could be great, I just had issues with the execution. I think now that the main character has been established they have more room to play and develop the story of the events, and maybe they’ll throw in some more monsters. Also, if this does catch on, maybe they’ll be granted a bigger budget to make some really nifty creatures. If that happens, I will gladly put the Jack Brooks series in my list.
This movie was pretty good. It doesn’t really pick up until the last 3rd of the movie, and there really aren’t that many monsters for Jack to slay, but it has great special effects and some nasty gross-out scenes. Robert Englund is also great in this movie. It’s worth a watch, and you’ll come away from it being entertained, but not blown away.
cool movie.funny,different
Awesome film.get it if you dont have it.loads of fun
Great movie, kinda has an old school feel. Definite buy.
I bought this movie based on some positive buzz and it was one of the best blind buys I have ever done. It is so nice to see what people can do with so little money. I reall y hope to see a sequel.
This movie was pretty sweet! Great gore and effects. I also enjoyed Jack, he was a cool dude. Plus, the other girl besides Eve was freakin’ hot!
Robert Englunds role in this was amazing and it shows that he can play other monsters apart from Freddy overall the movie has a story and has good special effects bring on a sequel
Anchor Bay is slowly becoming my favorite film company for horror. Hopefully, Cold Prey, The Alphabet Killer, and Laid to Rest will continue that. But one of the films that continued it is Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer. This film is very well done and definitely worth the wait. Sure, the film is slow (the real action does not start until the last half hour of the film), but it is very interesting lead-up. And once you get to the action at the end, all hell breaks loose and Trevor Matthews goes on a reckless abandon. He, as well as Robert Englund, give fantasic performances. And please, bring a sequel, with even more action. Overall, this film is highly entertaining and very enjoyable.
This was my most anticipated release of 2008! It appeared to have everything I love, gore, humor, and monsters. Unfortunately it fell way short of my expectations. The major problem is in the script. It plays like the writer read every screenwriting book available, then painted by numbers. That may work in some genres, but not in a horror / comedy / action film. Evil Dead II’s script was kinda terrible, but it was fun as all hell, and therefor a success. I don’t need 45 minutes of getting to know Jack and feeling bad about his crappy life. I want to see a bad ass plumber who beats the shit outta everyone. Maybe he feels bad about it, but he can’t help himself. He seems built for fighting. Everything is going to crap, when monsters attack the town. Finally Jack finds his lot in life, and the carnage ensues. I’m not saying that character isn’t important, but if you wanna make a lifetime movie, then do it. Leave the hell raising to the pros.
Entertaining, but i dont think ill have to see it again. Once was enough.
A great set up for a series of films to come.It has few slow parts, but the finally is worth the wait.Great dialogue and campy gore plus another stellar performance from Robert Englund.The actor that played Jack was great.So bring on a sequel full of new monsters and alot more gore.
a decent campy dark comedy.worth a rent.
I loved it….
One of the best horror comedy’s since Army of Darkness, with one of the coolest plumber’s since Mario.. A brutal throwback to old school, no CGI monsters, this movie deserved a theatrical run, alas like so many others it was not to be. It’s an entertaining little flick with great monster effects, a good story, and a likeable hero. A B movie of the best kind, money down this will soon be a cult classic.
This movie owns!!
Loved it. Can’t say much that hasn’t been said. The scene where he tells the shrink he hates his girlfriend is priceless.
Seriously, this movie was a blast. It totally channels the Evil Dead movies and has a ton of charm. Totally pays respect to the Evil Dead movies without ripping them off. A very likeable lead character who has anger issues because of a past traumatic incident with a “monster”. A very good story.
Pretty much all old-school effects, no crappy looking cgi to be found here. Tons of blood, gore, monsters and humor. Robert Englund turns in a great performance as “The Professor”. Definitely seek it out. I rented the unrated version but loved the movie so much I’ll be buying it tomorrow. Would make a great pick for viewing on Halloween.
Seek this movie out.
9/10 Sequel please!!
And duct tape FTW!!!!
This is a fun little enjoyable movie that is worth a look. If you like monster movies or really anything with Robert Englund check it out. Robert basically steals the show in this one wiht his wackiness and acting and stuff. AND BEST OF ALL EVERYTHING IN THIS MOVIE IS ALL PRACTICAL EFFECTS
which is so rare now adays!!!!! 
I give this a 7/10!
Bad ass. Harkens to a time of horror that no longer exists. Monsters and the dudes that kick their asses. Plus it’s great to see a horror movie that relies on natural effects, rather than cgi. Rare these days.
hahahah great throwback to the old style horror movies loved this movie
Pretty fun film with a hero that reminds me of Ash crossed with Adam Sandler (but not in a way that sucks), turn off your brain & enjoy.
This movie is good fun and should have had a cinematic release in the UK. It could stand out solely for the no CGI in it or because it has Robert”better than Jackie Earlie Haley will ever be” Englund but it is a lagitamently good movie and a great throwback.
Expect and want sequels.
This is a great throwback style monster movie. I wouldn’t of checked this out if it wasn’t for Robert Englund being in it. I was pleasantly surprised by Trevor Matthews job taking on the role of the hero. They used no cgi making this movie and I gotta say the monsters looked pretty badass. The cyclops was one of the best designed non cg monster I’ve seen in a long time. Overall this is just an extremely fun horror flick with some decent character development and some funny moments
An highly enjoyable monster flick, but definitely direct to dvd material. The effects were nicely done and the characters were worth rooting for, but this movie is nothing to get excited about. Sure there wasn’t a dull moment in this movie and was fast paced and a little refreshing, I just don’t see anything special about it to make it stand out from other monster movies. If there is a sequel because there might be one I will see it but won’t rush or be excited about it. Overall if you want a good old fashioned monster flick here you go, just don’t get your hopes up, have low expectations.
Absolutely loved this movie, probably the funnest film I’ve seen since Behind the Mask. I would highly reccomend it!
If you are looking for a good-hearted movie to watch than this is one of the best. Great effects and one-liners.
One of the best horror-comedies in recent years. Packed with laughs and gore.
Score: 8.5
Have you ever wondered what a mixture of American Pie and Evil Dead would look like? This is it!
The movie has plenty of funny characters, a retarded plot, over the top gore, plenty of bimbos and an outsider who turns into a hero.
There isnt really much more to say about the movie. It knows it’s audience, and it doesnt try to hide it. If you are a teen and looking for a fun time, this is for you. This is by no means a masterpiece or scary movie.
It could have been better and after all the praise I thought it would be.So I was a little disappointed.Not to say though there is still some fun to be had! Brought me back to the 80s style of films I grew up on.
It’s nice to see a new horror comedy that doesn’t go straight for raunchiness and instead builds characters. The effects are pretty good especially since it doesn’t rely on cg. There is a cheesy quality to the intro and the epilogue but I really enjoyed this movie. It reminded me of watching army of darkness or evil dead 2. It’s not quite up to that standard but if they make a second one, it could be.
i thought this movie was great. it didnt ruin it with crappy cgi effects. it stayed with origional makeup and costumes the way it should be. i think it was great how they got robert englend in it. who is one of my favorite acters. i would definetly check it out if you a horror fan like i am. i cannot fined anythingh wrong with this movie wich sais alot about me.
This movie was great entertainment. It was well acted and had a tight script with a unique plot.
Robert Englund is excellent as an absent-minded professor.
The monsters are really cool and scary. They reminded me of the demons from Dario Argento and Lamberto Bava’s “Demons”.
This film could have used a little more gore in my opinion.
Thought this was a blast of a comedy/horrorgore film. The Weird Science Chet-meets-Jabba creature was cool–lol. Some attitude, monsters, and splatters all in the name of simple viewing fun. It isn’t a perfect film with perfect effects, but the basic effects are old school cool and that makes it all the more enjoyable to watch. Flick your switch from serious horror mode and kick back with this for a short time if you just wanna enjoy a movie (only 80+ mins long).
This is a funny monster pic with strange creatures and good make-up effects. Suprisingly well done, with plenty of good performances, most notably from Robert Englund. I just wish we could have seen a bit more gore, and few more monsters. Still worth seeing. I’m looking forward to the sequal.
Its taken awhile to get around to this one, led by positive reaction on pretty much every horror site during Jack Brooks’ festival circuit run. For the most part the positive reactions were valid. The film has a lot that many zero budget horror offerings don’t. Most impressive, and most important of all in my opinion, is that the film looks good. It’s well shot, not too much hand-held, dynamic framing and good light/dark contrast in the many night time scenes. The acting, dodgy at best even in studio horror fare, is pretty good here, the stand out being of course Trevor Matthews as the titular Jack Brooks. That’s saying a lot considering Matthews in a stuntman by trade and though he is put through his paces on the physical front, there are a number of scenes where Matthews elicits genuine empathy for Jack. While its always nice to see horror veterans like Robert Englund working, he hams it up alittle too much, and its especially noticeable in scenes with the ‘playing-it-straight’ Matthews. Actually, there’s a very curious scene that involves the two actors that is played so dead pan, I’m still not sure If I was reading it right. It involves a lot of talk of Jack coming around to ‘unblock’ the professor’s (Englund) pipes. I read homoerotic, but you be the judge. The all important FX in Jack Brooks is also handled very well, when not in tight close-up. It is here the film’s inspirations are laid bare, Evil Dead II and Peter Jackson’s Brain Dead, to an almost blinding degree, but director Knautz can be forgiven for this indulgence as he has his fun with such glowing reverence. However, all the above doesn’t not a cult classic make. Jack Brooks is a one note, one idea story stretched out to nearly 90 minutes. It should be half that. We really only get to the good stuff in the last half an hour. It really feels like many scenes are just padding, especially those with Jack’s anger management councilor and all the classroom scenes with Englund. This excess of scenes over states minor story and character developments making everything more predictable and in turn the viewer more impatient to get to there foregone conclusion.
While it really should have been a short film (though I know they would have never got the funding for it) the filmmakers behind Jack Brooks should still be proud, as the elements that do work, work well.
a great comedy. i thought it was funny and the monster effects were great
Jack Brooks is a hunk and the movie is full of charm. I went in with no expectations and was left with a killer good time. Would love to see them make more of these, for sure.
i love this movie !
the monsters look awesome.
Fun comedy-horror for a Friday night … though some parts where Englund made me feel pretty queasy with all the belching & burping – good for a giggle, and some satisfying bits where I was thinking ‘god, I hope Jack punches/headbutts him/her’ – and he did!!
Pretty funny but I was a little disappointed as I expected more in the way of variety.
Pretty fun movie to sit and watch, though not the best movie out there. Great opening and closing to the film, the middle could use more monsters though.
With many nods to glorious 80s/90s horror classics like “Evil Dead”, “Braindead”, “Re-Animator” or “The Gate”, director Jon Knautz created a wonderful and highly amusing monster movie, not only an oldschool-horror homage but also something fresh and original.
~ The acting: terrific, absolutely terrific. Trevor Matthews, as a plumber who becomes the eponymous ‘monster slayer’, makes an absolutely fabulous anti-hero; Robert Englund’s delightful performance as odd college professor who transforms into a monster, is IMO one of the best and funniest things he’s ever done. Bravo!
~ The make-up / special effects: a treat for the eyes. Absolutely no CGI, just loads of beautifully designed monsters and monster masks, gruseome-looking zombies, glorious gore and amusing rubber tentacles.
~ Story/script: brilliantly written and paced with lots of suspense, action and humor; starts out quite slow but gets crazier and wilder over time.
In addition, everything about the simple but cool plot is top (great beginning, great ending, a superb backstory, no open questions).
Furthermore, the soundtrack is awesome, the villa- and school-settings look neat and, best of all, it never gets boring.
Overall, an absolutely enjoyable horror-comedy, highly recommended to 80s-fans and CGI-haters. Bring on the sequel!!
Hell. Yes. Only thing I didn’t like is that the movie ended…. bring on a sequel A.S.A.P.!!!
weeeeiiiiirrrrddddddd………….