Plot Details: This opinion reveals minor details about the movie's plot.

I went into this film with pretty low expectations. I was busy scanning the rack at Blockbuster, looking for something I hadn't seen, when the The Roost grabbed my attention. A horde of bats flying into view graced the cover, and immediately it looked like a cheesy movie - but, I had seen everything else and was in the mood for horror, so I grabbed it. I'm glad I did.

The film revolves around a group of friends, played by relative unknown actors, who find themselves isolated in and around a farmhouse after their car breaks down. The story & film grows increasingly more suspenseful as the group has to confront the local wildlife - a breed of bats whose bite turns humans into zombies. A clever, if not derivative, take on the zombie film.

The movie is rare in that it not only uses its extremely low budget to its advantage, but it succeeds as a true horror film as well. This is accomplished a few ways. One, the shots of the actual bats are few & far between, and when they are on screen, the director chooses extremely menacing and interesting views to play on the audiences' fears and expectations. One particular shot that has stayed with me is of a minor character on the ground, lit by porch light, with a swarm of bats swirling above and onto him. Quite creepy & cool. Another technique employed by Ti West (writer/director of The Roost) is the exhaustive use of locations. He seems to use every conceivable piece of the main locations. In less-skilled hands, this could easily make the film boring and stale - but each scene is distinct and interesting to watch, all due to the inventiveness and strength of the visuals.

I can't really point out much wrong with this film - maybe a few points where the story drags, but they're quickly forgotten and even sometimes add to the overall charm of this under-appreciated gem. There are some great moments between the characters, and each of the actors does a great job of playing normal college-age kids caught in horrific situations.

So, despite it low budget and minimalist use of special effects - The Roost is a shining example of what can be achieved by clever uses of shots and an interesting storyline. Rent it & watch it late at night. I'll definitely look forward to anything in the future from Ti West.

Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Fit for Friday Evening
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older