Film Review – The Blackening

Director Tim Story isn’t the first name that comes to mind when talk of quality cinema commences. He’s been making mediocre movies for decades, working in the studio trenches, making sure to deliver bland entertainment that’s easy on the senses, recently in command of “Tom & Jerry,” the ill-conceived “Shaft” rework-thingee, and sequels in “Ride Along 2” and “Think Like a Man Too.” He’s not a helmer that values edginess and timing, but he actually does something different with “The Blackening,” which is a horror comedy that’s somewhat playful and genuinely moves for its first two acts. Screenwriters Tracy Oliver and Dewayne Perkins (expanding a Comedy Central short) have a fun idea to play with the genre and the black experience, whipping up a semi-slasher that’s basically in a goofball mood. Story supports with strong casting and a commitment to the screwball tone of the effort, and while the feature starts to sag when it should lift off, “The Blackening” is a mostly exciting ride of mischief, establishing a party mood for all audiences. Read the rest at Blu-ray.com