Have you ever found yourself growing sorry for anyone? As bold of a statement as it might be to make, I often find myself feeling empathetic towards clowns, of all people groups. Once a legitimate institution, has now become almost a cornerstone  of fear for several individuals. Thanks in large part to individuals like John Wayne Gacy, Tim Curry, Bill Skarsgard and the hundreds of knock off horror movies made in the wake of how scary clowns can be. Now, you can Bill Mosesly to that list of effectively creepy clowns.  

Mosesly leads the film, Crepitus, though not to the capacity that you would expect. Over the years, Mosesly has obtained a name within the horror industry. Thanks to career defining parts in films like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre II and The Devil’s Rejects. Mosesly has made a name for himself and the kind of films that he goes after. When you hear the premise of him as a murderous clown, you’re sold, right? However, Mosesly is far from the strength of Crepitus. Rather its’ the younger cast that really solidify this movie as a whole but also bring a surprising layer of heart to the film. Crepitus centers upon two sisters, Sam (Chalet Lizette Brannan) & Eli (Caitlin Williams), on a quest to learn the origins of their family – while trying to escape their abusive and alcoholic mother (Eve Mauro). Though, its’ in the midst of journey, the sister stumble upon a terrifying tradition.

Crepitus is an intimate film with a superiorly strong cast. The majority of the time viewers spent with Brannan and Williams and every second is tender and endearing. The heart beat of the film is the relationship between these actresses and their chemistry is extraordinary. Both actresses not only make for some of the inspiring moments but also lay the foundational for a truly effective third act. Though, they are not alone. Given less screen time is Mauro and even, Mosesly. Perhaps, less is better though. Both, Mauro and Mosesly, carry a haunting presence on screen. They are equally the backbone of the film’s truly horrific force. Honestly, I feel like that’s about as much as I can say about it. The third act takes a twist you won’t see coming and its’ effective first two acts makes that possible.

Overall, Crepitus, is a horror film that dives into deep themes. Presenting a narrative surrounded by an abusive and neglectful home, the film brilliantly tells its’ point of view from two sisters. Chalet Lizette Brannan and Caitlin Williams usher in an endearing story filled with a surprising amount of heart. Brannan and Williams lay the foundation for a completely effective finale. Industry veteran, Bill Mosesly, and Eve Mauro only make Crepitus that much more effective. An intimate movie with a surprisingly deep mythology. Crepitus is a creepy, somewhat disturbing and surprisingly beautiful film.

RORSCHACH RATING:

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Credits: Crepitusis property of Wicked Thrilling Freaks. We do not own nor claim any rights. Official selection of Creature Feature Weekend 2019.