[Watch our review above or read it below!]

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In a Violent Nature offers an enticing angle: a slasher horror film that unfolds its macabre tale from the perspective of its killer. But while the film delivers a few intriguing moments and a touch of originality, the ultimate result is a shallow exercise that squanders a unique approach.

The plot itself is standard backwoods slasher fare, with clear nods to and inspiration from the likes of Friday the 13th and Wrong Turn. This familiarity is deliberate, knowingly employing various tropes that provide a meta edge. Unfortunately, the film’s pacing and some peculiar narrative choices in the final act lend it an arthouse flavour that simply doesn’t gel. It fails to dig deep enough to serve as a deconstruction of the genre (a monologue towards the end feels misplaced), and it lacks the momentum and originality to stand out as a notable slasher.

The movie has some of the, let’s say less-than-impressive aspects that we sometimes see with this genre, such as questionable acting and frustratingly silly choices made by characters.

The film often follows our killer from behind – and that quickly becomes tiresome. resembling a third-person video game where progress is hindered by your character’s inability to run. The aim is to build tension; instead, it becomes surprisingly tedious. Want to see what you miss out on in most serial killer/slasher movies? According to this film… not much.

For slasher and gore fans there are a few murder scenes that will undoubtedly raise the eyebrows. A yoga-inspired cliff-top kill and a scene of disturbingly slow dismemberment are among the gnarly highlights. The film is also beautifully shot, with impressive cinematography throughout and effective use of a 4:3 aspect ratio.

While In a Violent Nature presents an interesting angle and includes some well-crafted moments, it slashes its own potential and ultimately fails to carve out its niche.